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Jacksonville Jaguars -7.5 (-110) – Sunday, November 2nd ’08 1:00p
We are not normally in the habit of laying more than a touchdown on the road, especially with a team that we generally feel is overrated like the Jacksonville Jaguars, but we feel this is a great situation to do so vs. the winless Cincinnati Bengals. After a great season last year, the Jaguars may be the biggest disappointment in the league to this point at just 3-4. The offense has been inconsistent, and even the defense is allowing more points (21.6 per game) than usual. Quarterback David Garrard has lost the magic after a breakthrough year in 2007, throwing just six touchdown passes while averaging a very low 6.85 yard per pass attempt and owning a very modest 86.6 passer rating. The running game is averaging a respectable 116.0 yards per game on 4.1 yards per rush, but those numbers are also way down from last season. So why are we showing the love for the Jaguars this week? Well, this is simply a must game for Jacksonville, as their playoff chances would be totally shot of they fall to 3-5, so they should be focused from start to finish. Plus, is their a better team they can be facing when they need to step up than the Bengals? Cincinnati is 0-8, and ever since shutting down Carson Palmer for the season, the Bengals have gotten progressively worse, first losing to the New York Jets by 12 points, then to the Pittsburgh Steelers by 28 and then to the Houston Texans by 29 last week. Now we realize that winless teams have historically been a great bet at this point of the season, but most of those games have not been vs. desperate teams trying to save their season. Look for the Jaguars to establish Taylor and James-Drew on the ground vs. a soft Cincinnati front, setting thing up for Garrard to have some success in the air and leading to a much needed romp. NFL Free Pick: Jaguars -7.5 – (-110) – Courtesy of LT Profits

Dallas Cowboys @ New York Giants u41.0 – Sunday November 2nd ’08 4:15p
If the Cowboys are to win or even stay close on Sunday, They’ll need the defense to come up with another stellar effort, Brad Johnson, not Tony Romo will be under center and that means another VERY conservative game plan from the Cowboys. Johnson did a serviceable job last week and played it close to the vest. But he’s also been sacked six times in the last two games and against a New York defense that leads the league with 26 sacks, his lack of mobility will be a major concern. Cowboys’ coach Wade Phillips said Johnson will start, but third-stringer Brooks Bollinger got some work with the first team Wednesday. While Johnson has been battered and bruised the past two weeks, it’s been just the opposite for Giants QB Eli Manning. He’s enjoyed ample time in the pocket and his numbers show it. He’s only been sacked twice in his last five games and wasn’t dropped once in last Sunday’s 21-14 win at Pittsburgh against the Steelers who’ve been known to blitz a time ort two. Mannings confidence has grown by leaps and bounds and dare I say, he’s the best Manning QB in the league right. E-Mann is completing over 61 % of his passes and after throwing 17 picks last year, he’s thrown just four interceptions thru the Giants first seven games. With Dallas keeping to a very conservative play book and with key injuries on both sides, this one should stay under the number. A score of 21-17 sounds about right. – Courtesy of Bob Harvey

Houston Texans @ Minnesota Vikings u47 – Sunday, November 2nd 2008
The Texans have been a profitable ‘over team’ through the first half of the season. Six of their seven games have finished above the number. Those results have helped cause this afternoon’s over/under line to be extremely high. Most shops currently have a number of 47, which is the third highest total on the Week 9 board. I feel that’s generous for a game being played at Minnesota. Looking back at the last 20 games played here and we find that none had an over/under line greater than 44.5. Looking back further and we find the ‘under’ at 19-9-1 the last 29 Viking home games with an over/under line ranging from 45.5 to 49 points. This will be the fourth game played at Minnesota this season. The first three all finished below the total with an average score of only 28.33 points. The final combined scores were 33, 30 and 22. Both teams run the ball fairly regularly. Houston runs the ball 27.9 times per game for an average of 118.4 yards. The Vikings average 127.4 rushing yards on 29.4 carries per game. The Vikings have averaged a mere 15.7 points at home. Meanwhile, the Texans have averaged only 18.7 points per game on the road. The Vikings had last week off. Prior to the bye, they gave up 48 points at Chicago. That was their worst defensive effort in recent memory. As a result, I expect their defenders to play with a chip on their shoulders this week. The fact that defensive linemen Pat Williams and Kevin Williams were named in a “steroids report” may also provide some additional motivation. As of this time, both are expected to play. Minnesota coach Brad Childress had this to say on the subject: “I don’t have any reason to believe they won’t play on Sunday, at all…” Note that the Vikings may also have safety Madieu Williams in the lineup for the first time. I also expect a relatively solid effort from the Houston defense. Last week, the Texans closed out October with their best defensive performance of the season. They allowed just six points and 253 total yards. Not surprisingly, that game stayed below the total, the Texans’ first ‘under’ of the season. Note that Houston has also seen the ‘under’ go 5-1-1 in November the past two seasons. Consider the Under – Courtesy of Ben Burns

Denver Broncos -3.0 – Sun Nov 2 ’08 4:05p
The Miami Dolphins travel to the mile high city to play a well rested Denver Broncos team off a bye week. The Fins are off a hard fought win against division rival Buffalo last Sunday, and will be in an emotional and physical let down situation. The Broncos after starting their season with 3 straight wins, have now lost 3 of their L/4, and be primed to bounce back. HC Mike Shanahan has a history of being able to have his teams focused off rest, as is evident by a 15-3 SU ATS record , which includes a very impressive 12-1 SU/ATS mark against non divisional opposition. What I am betting will happen…. Denver goes back to a more balanced ground and aerial attack, as they take advantage of a Dolphins defense, that is starting to look a lot slower and beat up. Look for the Broncos offense to launch promising rookie RB Ryan Torain or a group by committee ,head first at the opposition, which will result in some big gains and scores. As the game progresses Denver QB Jay Cutler, will use play action to rip apart a secondary, that despite of their recent media accolades, is extremely vulnerable. I also expect that Denvers D, during the bye week has also found way to shore up and play tough. It must be noted QB (Chad Pennington) , has shown inconsistencies this season. Remember when the Dolphin pivot, was pulled in the 31-10 loss vs Arizona. I do, and think before this ones over, HC Sporano will be tempted to pull out the hook again. Projected score: Denver 27 Miami 19 – Courtesy of Alex Smart

If you are betting on NHL Hockey this Thursday, October 30th 2008 or Need Current NHL Hockey Odds be sure to visit Touthouse.com for Winning NHL Picks for the games listed below

Thursday – October 30th NHL Odds
Tampa Bay Lightning vs. Buffalo Sabres
New York Islanders vs. Philadelphia Flyers
Atlanta Thrashers vs. New York Rangers
Ottawa Senators vs. Florida Panthers
Montreal Canadiens vs. Minnesota Wild
Edmonton Oilers vs. Nashville Predators
Carolina Hurricanes vs. St. Louis Blues
Boston Bruins vs. Calgary Flames
Columbus Blue Jackets vs. Colorado Avalanche
Pittsburgh Penguins vs. Phoenix Coyotes
Vancouver Canucks vs. Los Angeles Kings
Detroit Red Wings vs. San Jose Sharks

Bob Harvey is 75% in His NHL 2008/09 Total Picks
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After starting the season with five consecutive wins, South Florida has struggled lately, having lost two of their last three games. Both losses have come in league play, including a 24-20 loss at Louisville last weekend. At 1-2 in conference play, South Florida isn’t completely out of it yet, but it cannot afford another loss, especially considering West Virginia has yet to lose a league game.

As for the Cincinnati Bearcats, it saw its winning strek come to an end last weekend, losing a brutal 40-16 game at Connecticut. The loss ended the team’s four-game win streak and dropped it to 5-2 overall and 1-1 in the Big East. On the other hand, the Bearcats now return home where they have a perfect 3-0 record this season, including a 13-10 win over Rutgers in their last league game.

Click Here for The Winning Pick for Cincinnati vs. South Florida

5dimes.com oddsmakers currently has South Florida listed as a 3 point odds favorite against Cincinnati and the games total is sitting at 50.5 total points

Here are some betting trends for this game:
Bulls are 5-0 ATS in their last 5 games after accumulating less than 100 yards rushing in their previous game.
Bulls are 6-2 ATS in their last 8 games following a S.U. loss.
Bearcats are 6-1-1 ATS in their last 8 games following a S.U. loss.
Bearcats are 5-1-1 ATS in their last 7 games after scoring less than 20 points in their previous game.
Bearcats are 4-1-1 ATS in their last 6 games following a SU loss of more than 20 points.
Bulls are 0-4 ATS in their last 4 meetings.

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Article Courtesy of LT Profits, A professional sports betting expert featured on Touthouse.com. If you are betting on sports this weekend and need winning picks, be sure to buy LT Profits expert picks

Every week, regardless of the sport, head-scratching upsets take place that have bettors cursing the heavens and crying foul while ripping up there tickets.

For example, how could the lowly Miami Dolphins of the NFL beat a San Diego Chargers team than many predicted to go to the Super Bowl outright? Or how could a terrible Michigan football team upset a Wisconsin club that was expected to challenge for the Big Ten title?

Well, both of these games had something in common that shrewd bettors could have used to their advantage, and that could have made these upsets both expected and profitable. Welcome to the world of reverse line movement.

Reverse line movement takes place when a large majority of bets are on one team, yet the line moves in the opposite direction. For example, in the two cases above, at least 75 percent of all bets were placed on the Chargers and Wisconsin respectively. Yet, the Chargers line dropped from an opener of -7 to a closing line of -5½, while Wisconsin fell from -6½ to -5. You all now know what transpired on the field on each occasion.

So what causes reverse line movement when the aim of most bookmakers is to get as close to balanced action on both sides as possible? The answer to this is quite simple: the sharp bettors. You see, reverse movement takes when more money is bet by the small percentage of bettors that are on the unpopular side (the sharps) than is bet by the huge majority of players betting the popular side (the squares). Thus, following reverse line movements is the same thing a following the smart money.

Now do the sharps win every single time? Absolutely not! However, they are right more often than they are wrong, so being on the same side as the sharps is a prudent strategy over the long run.

To back this up, our friends over at Sports Insights have tracked the records for games where over 60 percent of the public has been on one side, yet there was reverse line movement of at least one full point from the opening number to the close at the top books in NFL, NCAAF, NBA and NCAAB. As you can see, this strategy has been profitable in every sport. Note that these records are for sides only and do not include totals.

At Least 60% of Bets on Side, Reverse Line Move of at least 1 point
League W L P Pct Units
NFL 2008 18 13 1 58.1% 2.83
NFL 2007 155 130 9 54.4% 18.62
NCAAF 2008 137 106 8 56.4% 17.51
NCAAF 2007 227 156 4 59.3% 49.49
NBA 2007-8 221 182 6 54.8% 18.89
NCAAB 2007-8 272 203 11 57.3% 42.04

Also, games where over 60 percent of the public are on one side, yet there is reverse line movement of at least 10 cents on the Money Line from the opening number to the close at the top books in MLB and NHL has also been profitable. Again, these records are for money lines only and do not include totals.

At Least 60% of Bets on Side, Reverse Money Line Move of at least 10 cents
League W L P Pct Units
MLB 2008 518 600 0 46.3% 131.98
NHL 2008-9 1 0 0 100.0% 0.95
NHL 2007-8 224 229 0 49.4% 85.69

Obviously, this approach produces a lot of underdog money line plays, as you can see by comparing the winning percentages in MLB and NHL with the units won. However, one cannot quibble with the results, and dare we say, this is an approach that makes money in the long run without doing any handicapping.

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Army +8.5 (-110) – Saturday November 1st ’2008 12:00p
The Air Force Falcons may be 6-2 straight up compared to just 3-5 for the Army Black Knights, but Army is on a 5-0 ATS run and they can give the Falcons fits at home here. In fact, the Cadets have won three of their last four games outright, and the only loss during this stretch was 27-24 in overtime on the road vs. what has become a pretty decent Buffalo team. These teams are very similar in that both clubs run the ball often and neither has a passing game. Army is averaging an impressive 246.9 rushing yards per contest on 4.5 yards per carry, compared to a miniscule 45.4 passing yards. Then again, we see that as a positive for a team getting more than a touchdown, as Army should be able to shorten this game by running a lot of clock. Air Force is averaging even more rushing yards per game at 291.0, although they average an identical 4.5 yards per rush as the Black Knights. Keep in mid they that the Army defense is only allowing 116.5yards per game on just 3.5 yards per carry, so that may slow the Falcons down somewhat. At the very least, it will take them longer to drive down the field, again killing clock and favoring the underdog. As long as Army does not turn the ball over much, we fully expect them to be in this game until the end, and an outright home upset would not shock us at all. CFB Free Pick: Army +8.5 (-110) – Courtesy of LT Profits

Miami (Florida) +2.5 – Saturday November 1st ’2008 12:00p
The Miami Hurricanes and the Virgina Cavaliers go head to head in a key ACC matchup between two teams that are currently in top form. The Canes after a 0-2 start in conference play, have come back with impressive successive wins against Wake Forest and Duke. Meanwhile, the Cavaliers have won 4 straight games , including wins against two top 25 teams. Last year when these football programs met the Cavaliers mercilessly beat the Canes in their own back yard, down in the Orange Bowl by a 48-0 count. While revenge in College football can sometimes be over stated and over hyped, this is not one of those situations. The above mentioned loss marked the first time since 1974 that Miami Fl, was shut at home. Worse of all, the loss came in front of some of the schools all time top players. Needless to say, some key boosters were not impressed with how coach Randy Shannon seemed unprepared for that game. Since than the HC has had this date circled on his calender and will have his team more than ready to compete. The Wahoos HC Al Groh knows there is a storm blowing in, and will batten down the hatches . Look for a hard fought affair, with the Canes strength, their defense, ending up being the difference maker . Final notes & Key Trends: The underdog has won the L/4 meetings. The Canes have covered four straight road games. Projected score: Miami Fl 23 Virginia 20 – Courtesy of Alex Smart

Texas @ Texas Tech o72.0 (-110) – Sat Nov 1 ’08 8:00p
When the Texas Longhorns and the Texas Tech Red Raiders get together in today’s biggest game, there will be an abundance of things, not the least of which will be points. Due to the prolific nature of both of these offenses, we are going with the Over in tonight’s Big 12 South battle. The Longhorns and Red Raiders are averaging a combined 93.6 points per game while allowing a combined 39.5 points per game. Something has to give and I’m certain it will be the defenses. Last weekend was a low scoring game for the Longhorns as they put just 28 on the board against Oklahoma State. However, Texas still amassed 504 yards and 32 first downs. Were it not for two turnovers, Mack Brown’s team probably could have tacked on another 10 to 14 points. Given that Texas is not prone to the turnover, I do not look for last week’s giveaways to be an issue tonight. Additionally, I do not see the Red Raiders shutting down the UT offense (scored less than 38 just once in 2008). The same can be said for Tech, who is +9 in the turnover margin this year. Likewise too, while Texas has a very solid defense, holding the Red Raiders to less than 35 points would be quite an accomplishment considering no team has done it in 2008. Things to consider: The Over is 8-2 in the Longhorns last 10 as a road favorite. The Over is 5-1 in the last six between these two in Lubbock. Free Pick: Take the Over 72 (-110) – Courtesy of Matt Foust

Rice (-128) – Sat Nov 1 ’08 9:00p
To say the Rice Owls have rebounded from last year’s 3-9 finish would be an understatement. The Owls are 5-3 this season with their only losses coming against Vanderbilt, Texas, and Tulsa. Tonight David Bailiff’s squad will face conference rival UTEP in El Paso and we are taking Rice straight up (-128). Neither team, in this Conference USA match-up, plays a great brand of defense, but they can put points on the scoreboard and do it quickly. However, it Rice’s ability to do so with a greater proficiency that has me siding with them. The Owls are averaging 40.1 points per game to UTEP’s 31.4 and they have a distinct advantage at the quarterback position. While UTEP’s Trevor Vittatoe is a fine passer, he is not as capable as Rice’s Chase Clement nor does he have the same weapons. Clement has tossed 24 touchdowns this season and just six interceptions, and his outside targets are two of the best in the country. Receivers Jarett Dillard and James Casey both rank in the top 10 in the nation in receiving yards and in the top 15 in receptions. The UTEP secondary does not have an answer for either of these two. The UTEP offense, make no mistake, will get their share against the Owls rather porous defense, but they will be hard pressed to match points. And since Rice is not prone to self destructing (+9 in turnover margin this season), they should pull out a close win in El Paso. Things to consider: UTEP is 0-5 ATS and 1-4 straight up as a home team against a Conference USA opponent in November (last five games). UTEP is 1-9 straight up and 2-8 ATS the spread in their last 10 games as a home underdog in the month of November. Free Pick: Rice -128 – Courtesy of Matt Foust

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NBA Picks: Detroit Pistons -10.0 (-110) Basketball Odds – Wed October 29th ’2008 8:05p
The Indiana Pacers and Detroit Pistons open up their seasons tonight at the Palace in Auburn Hills. Indiana experienced some front office and roster turnover in the off season while the Pistons got a new coach. We are going with the Pistons -10 in tonight’s tip-off. Detroit’s president of basketball operations, Joe Dumars, fired Flip Saunders after the Pistons were dismissed from the playoffs prior to the Finals for the third straight year. The club, however, is largely the same one that won 59 games last season and outscored opponents by an average of 7.4 points per game (second only to Boston). The Pacers are a really young squad this season and have a few new faces that will be significant contributors (T.J. Ford, Kareem Rush). It may take awhile for them to come together and really find an identity and that does not bode well for them this evening. Detroit will set the tempo, as they usually do at home, and they have a big advantage on the blocks against the Pacers. Indiana will probably rely a great deal on the three-pointer with Dunleavy and Granger getting most of the shots. This is something they are good at, but the Pistons are excellent at defending it, limiting teams to just 33.2 percent beyond the arc last year. The Pacers do not have anybody to match-up adequately with Rasheed Wallace or Tayshaun Prince and that will spell doom for them in tonight’s game. The spread is a little wide, but with good reason. Detroit will cover this one at home as the Pacers feel their way through this game and the first half of the season. Things to consider: Detroit is 13-7 ATS the spread in their last 20 as a home favorite. Detroit is 9-1 ATS in their last 10 as a home favorite with a total between 185 and 190. Free NBA Picks: Take the Pistons -10 (-110) – Courtesy of Matt Foust

Basketball Betting: Oklahoma City Thunders -2.5 NBA Odds - Wed October 29th ’08 8:05p
The Bucks went 26-56 in the weaker Eastern Conference last year. They spent the offseason revamping the roster and jumped at the change to bring in Scott Skiles as the new head coach. The hope was that Skiles could inject the tough defense and unselfish play that characterized his former team, the Bulls, prior to last year’s meltdown. After watching the Bucks play last night, there is clearly plenty of work for Skiles to do. Milwaukee went 1-7 in the preseason, showing no signs of cohesion and team chemistry. They allowed a Bulls team with a rookie point guard making his NBA debut to control the action in the second half. Richard Jefferson looked out of sorts with his new club. Center Andrew Bogut was bothered by his sore ankle, held to a modest nine points and seven boards. New point guard Luke Ridnour had more turnovers than assists. Their opponent last night, Chicago, the worst shooting team in the league last year, shot 51% from the floor. The Bucks committed 30 team fouls. It was not a pretty defensive showing. Skiles: “We were a step slow and we were slapping at people. Pretty much every category, they owned. Things don’t get much easier for the Bucks tonight as they travel to Oklahoma City on the second night of back-2-backs to face the Thunder in their debut in their new digs. We saw the move to Oklahoma City completely transform a hapless Hornets franchise into playoff contenders, as they fed off the crowd’s energy and became a strong home team immediately following their temporary move from New Orleans. Look for the Thunder to feed off that same energy tonight, earning a win in their debut at the Ford Center. Take Oklahoma City. – Courtesy of Ted Sevransky

New Jersey Nets @ Washington Wizards o192.5 (-110) – Wed Oct 29 ’08 7:05p
Even with the Washington Wizards missing Gilbert Arenas and Brendan Haywood, and the New Jersey Nets losing Richard Jefferson in the off season, we still see these teams approaching 200 points tonight. After all, the Wizards front court is as potent as any in the game with Antawn Jamison and Caron Butler, and they could easily take advantage of a Nets front court that is not renowned for its defense. In fact, that is exactly what happened the last time these clubs met, albeit with the Nets winning that game 109-106. The two starting Washington forwards combined for 55 points (Butler 28, Jamison 27), and we would not be shocked by a repeat performance tonight, keying another triple-digit total output. Now the Nets have changed considerably since that last meeting, trading away Jason Kidd in the interim in addition to the loss of Jefferson. This is a team in rebuilding mode, but they can potentially have an excellent backcourt if Vince Carter comes to play each night, as new point guard Devin Harris could be a superstar in the making with some decent parts around him. Finally, let us face the fact that the Wizards do not play defense either, so if the Nets can get anything from a revamped front line, we see no reason why this contest cannot resemble that last meeting where 215 points were scored. NBA Free Pick: Nets, Wizards Over 192.5 (-110) – Courtesy of LT Profits

Toronto Raptors @ Philadelphia 76ers o190.0 (-110) – Wed Oct 29 ’08 6:05p
The Over went a perfect 4-0 in all the head-to-head meetings between the Toronto Raptors and Philadelphia 76ers last season, and we are looking for a carbon copy tonight. Now granted, Philadelphia did have Allen Iverson for a couple of those meetings, but in reality they did not suffer offensively after trading him away. In fact, the Sixers averaged 100.8 points per game after the All-Star break, and they may improve on that figure with the addition of Elton Brand, who instantly gives them the inside game they lacked. As for the Raptors, well, they are what they are. This is a team that will frequently score 100 points and allow 100 points in the same game, yet their biggest off-season move was the acquisition of Jermaine O-Neal, which adds even more offense but does nothing to help the defense. Look for the scoreboard operator to be kept busy tonight. NBA Free Pick: Raptors, 76ers Over 190 (-110) – Courtesy of LT Profits

Week 9 NFL Football Betting Power Rankings-Ratings Courtesy of Alex Smart, An Award-Winning Professional Football Handicapper Featured on Touthouse.com. If you are Betting on NFL Football in Week 9, Be Sure to Buy Alex’s Expert NFL Picks

1: Tennessee Titans (7-0 ATS, 7-0 SU) (LW: 1) If the world didn’t believe in the Tennessee Titans before Monday night, they sure do now. The Titans used a massive 2nd half effort to knock off the Colts 31-21 and cover their seventh game without a blemish this season. They should get tested this weekend against a Green Bay team that is 11-3-1 ATS in their L/15 road games.
Next Up: Home vs. Packers (-5)

2: New York Giants (5-2 ATS, 6-1 SU) (LW: 5) The defending champs played the part in Pittsburgh, upsetting the Steelers 21-14 behind a relentless defensive effort and timely special teams play. They’re still in the midst of a brutal stretch of games which sees them take on Dallas next.
Next Up: Home vs. Cowboys (-9)

3: Arizona Cardinals (5-2 ATS, 4-3 SU) (LW: 4) For the first time in three East Coast trips this season, the Cards came out with a betting victory, but they’re still 0-3 SU after losing 27-23 in Carolina. It’s not quite a trip all the way east next week, but they pay a visit to the suddenly frisky Rams in their Week 9 betting affair.
Next Up: Away @ Rams (-3)

4: Baltimore Ravens (5-2 ATS, 4-3 SU) (LW: 8 ) The Ravens continued their impressive early-season play by destroying Oakland 29-10. They’re about set to embark on a three-game road trip, but their first stop is in Cleveland, the team with the 30th ranked offense in the NFL.
Next Up: Away @ Browns (+1)

5: Philadelphia Eagles (5-2 ATS, 4-3 SU) (LW: 7) By all rights, the Falcons should’ve easily covered the spread against the Eagles on Sunday afternoon, but wins are wins, and Eagles bettors have had plenty of them this year. They’re 8-1 ATS in their L/9 road games and head all the way to Qwest Field next weekend.
Next Up: Away @ Seahawks (-7)

6: Cleveland Browns (5-2 ATS, 3-4 SU) (LW: 11) Surprise, surprise! The Browns have been on fire since their bye week, covering three straight games as underdogs of at least a touchdown. They’re back to AFC North play next week when they take on Baltimore, a team which already beat them 28-10 earlier this season.
Next Up: Home vs. Ravens (-1)

7: Atlanta Falcons (4-3 ATS, 4-3 SU) (LW: 2) Atlanta gave it their best effort in Philadelphia, and had they had an extra timeout in their pocket, the final score would’ve likely been at worst 20-14. It was a harsh beat for Falcons bettors which took the 9.5-points. They’re just 1-3 ATS on the road this year, and head to the West Coast this weekend.
Next Up: Away @ Raiders (-3)

8: Chicago Bears (4-2-1 ATS, 4-3 SU) (LW: 9) HC Lovie Smith has to be worried about his defense during the bye week, which has allowed 20+ points to five of their L/6 opponents. The good news it that one opponent that didn’t reach 20 also happens to be the same team that is on the slate this week.
Next Up: Home vs. Lions (-13)

9: Buffalo Bills (4-3 ATS, 5-2 SU) (LW: 3) Buffalo fell back into a tie for first place in the AFC East by losing in Miami 25-16. Save a 38-17 victory against the Fins at the end of last season, the Bills have only averaged 12.7 ppg in their L/6 in division.
Next Up: Home vs. Jets (-5.5)

10: Washington Redskins (5-3 ATS, 6-2 SU) (LW: 13) The Skins escaped with an ATS victory over the Lions by the skin of their teeth. QB Jason Campbell still has yet to throw an interception this season, but that’s going to be tested next week against a Steelers team which has picked off six passes this year and is notorious for forcing mistakes by the opposing QB.
Next Up: Home vs. Steelers (-2.5)

11: New Orleans Saints (5-3 ATS, 4-4 SU) (LW: 14) It was a good news/bad news week for the Saints. They pulled the mild upset of the Chargers on the other side of the pond, but are likely to lose three starters at some point due to the steroid scandal of last week.
Next Up: Bye

12: Tampa Bay Buccaneers (5-3 ATS, 5-3 SU) (LW: 6) Tampa Bay was a victim of some questionable officiating and a tight betting line against the Cowboys over the weekend. They lost 13-9 in a typical Bucs slobber knocker, but get the great news of taking on the pathetic Chiefs next week before their bye.
Next Up: Away @ Chiefs (-9)

13: Miami Dolphins (4-3 ATS, 3-4 SU) (LW: 16) QB Chad Pennington classified their game against Buffalo as a “must win,” and they responded by beating the Bills 25-16. They can make a real case for being a playoff-caliber club next week if they find a way to win in the Rockies.
Next Up: Away @ Broncos (+3.5)

14: Green Bay Packers (4-3 ATS, 4-3 SU) (LW: 12) The Pack were 0-3-1 ATS and 1-3 SU against the AFC South since the division was formed heading into their game with the Colts two weeks ago, but they snapped that by pounding Indy 34-14. They’ve got another shot at the South next week when they take on the Titans.
Next Up: Away @ Titans (+5)

15: Carolina Panthers (4-3-1 ATS, 6-2 SU) (LW: 10) Carolina bettors might be whining about another narrow defeat, but it won’t concern QB Jake Delhomme and the Panthers, who are now a full game in front of the field in the NFC South. After their bye week, they could expand that lead, as there are games with Oakland, Detroit, and Atlanta on the horizon.
Next Up: Bye

16: St. Louis Rams (3-4 ATS, 2-5 SU) (LW: 21) Rams bettors are now a perfect 3-0 under Jim Haslett. They lost 23-16 in Gillette Stadium, but were really never threatened to lose against the 9-point spread. If they’ve got a chance of making the playoffs, this next game hosting Arizona is a must-win.
Next Up: Home vs. Cardinals (+3)

17: Oakland Raiders (3-4 ATS, 2-5 SU) (LW: 15) Oakland’s offense never really stood a chance against the best defense in the NFL, as they only managed 234 net yards against the Ravens in their 29-10 defeat. They’ve lost their L/2 meetings against AFC South opponents by the combined score of 69-13, so it could be more bad news on the horizon when the silver and black host Atlanta.
Next Up: Home vs. Falcons (+3)

18: Pittsburgh Steelers (3-4 ATS, 5-2 SU) (LW: 17) A horrible snap on a punt in the 4th quarter cost the Steelers nine points between the safety and the touchdown on the ensuing drive to hand them a 21-14 defeat to the defending champions. They’ve now failed to cover four straight games against the NFC East and travel to Washington next week.
Next Up: Away @ Redskins (+2.5)

19: New England Patriots (3-4 ATS, 5-2 SU) (LW: 19) It was touch and go for the Patriots, but they moved into a tie for first place in the AFC East with their 23-16 victory over the Rams. They failed to cover for the second time in three weeks though, and have a huge battle with Indianapolis next week.
Next Up: Away @ Colts (+5)

20: Dallas Cowboys (3-5 ATS, 5-3 SU) (LW: 24) Oddsmakers clearly over-adjusted for the absence of Tony Romo when the Boys battled with the Bucs. They were only 1-point favorites and covered with their 13-9 victory. They’re just 2-6-1 ATS over their L/9 against next week’s opponent, the Giants.
Next Up: Away @ Giants (+9)

21: Indianapolis Colts (3-4 ATS, 3-4 SU) (LW: 18) Is the run of domination for the Colts over in the AFC South? It’s sure an uphill climb from here, as their loss to Tennessee dropped Indy four games behind the division leader. They are in serious danger of losing their third straight when the Pats visit Lucas Oil Stadium this weekend.
Next Up: Home vs. Patriots (-5)

22: Seattle Seahawks (3-4 ATS, 2-5 SU) (LW: 26) For the second straight week, Seattle bettors picked up a victory. Even though they got reamed by the Giants earlier this season, the fact that they’ve got another NFC East opponent next week could be lead to a third straight cover. They’re 5-2 ATS in their L/7 meetings against the East.
Next Up: Home vs. Eagles (+7)

23: New York Jets (3-4 ATS, 4-3 SU) (LW: 20) The Jets almost embarrassed themselves by losing outright to the Chiefs, but salvaged a 28-24 victory when Brett Favre hooked up with Laveranues Coles with 1:00 to go for the game-winning touchdown. They’re now 0-3 ATS against the AFC West, but are an encouraging 3-1 ATS against the rest of the NFL.
Next Up: Away @ Bills (+5.5)

24: Kansas City Chiefs (3-4 ATS, 1-6 SU) (LW: 28) Kansas City was handed a gift from Brett Favre in the form of a 91-yard INT return for a touchdown to give them a 3-point lead late in the 4th quarter. But Favre giveth and Favre taketh away, as he threw the game-winning touchdown with 1:00 to go. They had no trouble sticking within the number last week, but could struggle next week against the Bucs, a team they haven’t covered against since 1993.
Next Up: Home vs. Buccaneers (+9)

25: San Diego Chargers (3-4-1 ATS, 3-5 SU) (LW: 22) The Chargers are in need of a gut check in a hurry. After getting beaten 37-32 against the Saints in London, they are now 0-3 SU and ATS on long road trips. None of their remaining road endeavors are exactly short trips, and they’re going to have to use their bye week to get things together if they’re going to make the playoffs.
Next Up: Bye

26: Houston Texans (2-5 ATS, 3-4 SU) (LW: 30) If not for a total meltdown against Indianapolis, the Texans would be 4-3, in second place in the AFC South, and tied for a Wild Card spot. Football bettors shouldn’t be overly impressed with wins over Miami, Detroit, and Cincinnati, but if they can win in Minnesota next week, the Texans may be worth taking note of.
Next Up: Away @ Vikings (+4.5)

27: Jacksonville Jaguars (2-5 ATS, 3-4 SU) (LW: 23) Those distinct boos that you’re hearing from the south are coming from Jacksonville. The Jags are just 3-4 and are well outside of the playoffs right now. The only thing to look forward to is a game in Cincinnati next week. They’re 3-0-1 ATS and 4-0 SU in their L/4 against the Bengals.
Next Up: Away @ Bengals (-7.5)

28: Denver Broncos (1-5-1 ATS, 4-3 SU) (LW: 27) There’s only one team left in the NFL with only one victory against the spread, and they reside in Denver. They’ll look to snap the dastardly losing streak that dates back to the opening Monday night of the season when the Fins come to town next week.
Next Up: Home vs. Dolphins (-3.5)

29: San Francisco 49ers (2-6 ATS, 2-6 SU) (LW: 25) HC Mike Nolan didn’t know he was getting a Christmas gift in disguise last week when he got fired before the Niners took on the Seahawks. At least he didn’t have to watch San Fran get trounced 34-13 as 5-point favorites, the fifth straight game which resulted in a loss for Niners bettors.
Next Up: Bye

30: Detroit Lions (2-5 ATS, 0-7 SU) (LW: 29) Just when Lions bettors thought they had their third straight cover, they snapped defeat from the jaws of victory by giving up a game-covering field goal with 2:00 left to lose 25-17 to the Skins. They’ll try to get the goose-egg out of the win column next week against Chicago, a team they are just 2-5 SU against in their L/7.
Next Up: Away @ Bears (+13)

31: Minnesota Vikings (2-5 ATS, 3-4 SU) (LW: 31) Minnesota has already failed to cover the spread against the Titans and Colts this year, and will have a chance to add the Texans for the AFC South trifecta this weekend.
Next Up: Home vs. Texans (-4.5)

32: Cincinnati Bengals (2-6 ATS, 0-8 SU) (LW: 32) In a season of complete and utter despair, at least the Bengals have a really nice draft pick to look forward to. They were crushed by the Texas 35-6 on Sunday afternoon, marking the third straight disappointment for Bengals bettors. More good news… after Jacksonville comes to town, Cincinnati has a bye week.
Next Up: Home vs. Jaguars (+7.5)

Buffalo U +1.5 (-110) – Tue October 28 ’08 7:00p
Very little separates the Buffalo Bulls and the Ohio Bobcats statistically, but the one major difference is at quarterback, and that is where we expect Buffalo to win this game on the road. The Bulls are piloted by Drew Willy, who has completed 62.8 percent of his passes while averaging 7.41 yards per pass attempt, tossing 14 touchdown passes against just four interceptions. As a result, Buffalo is averaging a very commendable 27.0 points per game, and if the Bulls could open up a lead here, Ohio is not particularly equipped to come from behind. That is exactly what happened last season when Buffalo beat these Bobcats at home by a 31-10 count. Ohio has gotten erratic quarterback play from Boo Jackson, who has almost as many interceptions (eight) as he does touchdown passes (nine). As a result, the Bobcats are 1-6 straight up vs. Division 1A competition this season, which in itself makes them vulnerable as small favorites. The Bobcats managed just 10 points at Temple last week, and a repeat performance should mean another loss vs. this Buffalo offense.

Buffalo vs. Ohio Winning Pick: Buffalo +1.5 (-110)

Basketball Picks: Cleveland Cavaliers +6.5 NBA Odds – Tue October 28th ’2008 8:05p
The defending NBA champion Boston Celtics open up defense of their title this Tuesday night in the TDBanknorth Garden against super star LeBron James and his Cleveland Cavaliers. The Celtics are once again the most loaded team in the East and are the early season front runners for another 1st place finish. Meanwhile, the Cleveland Cavaliers after taking the Celtics to 7 games in last years playoffs, are now ready, to contend for Eastern conference dominance themselves. With James coming into his prime, and the off season acquisition and addition of top tier offensive component Mo Williams to the line up , the Cavaliers become an extremely dangerous adversary for all comers. Look for these two rivals to go head to head in a hard fought closely contested battle this evening. Final notes & Key Trends: Cleveland has covered 5 straight meetings in this series, and 5 of of the L/6 here in Beantown. The underdog is 10-4 ATS L/14 meetings. Projected score: Boston 90 Cleveland 89 Cavaliers to cover – Courtesy of Alex Smart

NBA Betting Picks: Cleveland Cavaliers @ Boston Celtics u179.5 (-110) Basketball Odds – Tue October 28th ’08 8:05p
The World Champion Boston Celtics and the Cleveland Cavaliers played a slew of low-scoring games last season, and we do not see tonight being any different. These clubs faced each other 11 times including their seven-game playoff series, and those 11 meetings averaged only a combined 177.5 points. Furthermore, the six meetings here in Boston averaged just 168.8 points. Of course, one reason that the Celtics won the title was that they played some of the best defense in the league, and this was especially true in Beantown, as they limited their home opponents to a miniscule 87.9 points per game during the regular season with the Under going 23-16-2, 59.0 percent. Then again, another reason these teams played so many low-scoring games was that the Cavaliers were also an Under-friendly team. The Cleveland peripheral players had a very bad habit of feeding the ball to :LeBron James and then standing around and watching him in admiration, so when King James is a bit off, the Cavs offense becomes very stagnant. The Celtics ate expected to make his job as uncomfortable as possible tonight, so look for yet another low scoring affair. NBA Free Picks: Cavaliers, Celtics go Under 179.5 (-110) – Courtesy of LT Profits

2008-2009 NBA Eastern Conference Preview Courtesy of The Prez, A Professional Award Winning Handicapper Featured on Touthouse.com. If you are betting on NBA basketball this season be sure to buy The Prez’ Expert NBA Picks

On the eve of the new season, here’s a look at the NBA’s Eastern Conference. The East is widely assumed to be weaker than the West yet houses the defending NBA champs.

TITLE CONTENDERS

Boston Celtics (+150 to win East/+350 to win NBA title): The Celtics will raise NBA title banner No. 17 on Opening Night and are the overwhelming favorites to be the team to represent the East again this season. The Big 3 are back in Kevin Garnett, Paul Pierce and Ray Allen, with the only significant loss really being that of James Posey to the Hornets. When you think of Garnett, Pierce and Allen, you probably think offense, but the C’s were the best defensive team in the land last year. Really, the only thing that realistically should keep Boston out of the NBA Finals again is the injury bug. Other than the Spurs, no team relies on 30-something stars like Boston. Coach Doc Rivers plans to reduce the regular-season minutes of Pierce and Allen to keep them fresh this year.

Cleveland Cavaliers (+450 to win East/+1250 to win NBA title): Is this the year LeBron James finally carries his supporting cast to a title? Doubtful, although King James does have arguably his best No. 2 option since he has been in the NBA with Mo Williams, who came over from the Bucks. Williams averaged more than 17 points and six assists in each of the past two seasons in Milwaukee, so he can alleviate both a scoring and ball-handling load on James. So while the backcourt should be better, the frontcourt remains a question. Ben Wallace regresses more each year and Zydrunas Ilgauskas can’t be counted on to stay healthy, can he? They very well could reach the East Finals again, but that’s probably it.

Detroit Pistons (+330 to win East/+750 to win NBA title): These odds seem very low for a team whose title window seems closed. Detroit does have a new coach in Michael Curry, but GM Joe Dumars didn’t deliver on the overhaul that he threatened after last season. No doubt the Pistons win probably 50 games and a playoff series this year, but with aging Chauncey Billups and unpredictable Rasheed Wallace, this club’s ceiling is lower than it’s been in recent seasons.

Orlando Magic (+800 to win East/+1700 to win NBA title): The Magic should win the weak Southeast Division again with no problems, but their flaws were again exposed by the Pistons in the East semifinals last year, with those mainly being a weak, undersized backcourt and an unreliable rebounder outside of Dwight Howard. Orlando tried to address the backcourt problem with former Warrior Mickael Pietrus, but he couldn’t get consistent minutes in Golden State. Meanwhile, Howard remains the only true low-post presence on this team. Look for the same result as last season: Win a playoff series and then out.

SHOULD REACH PLAYOFFS

Philadelphia 76ers (+850 to win East/+1900 to win NBA title): By signing Elton Brand, the Sixers became many people’s chic underdog pick to win the Eastern Conference. No doubt, Brand helps what was Philly’s big weakness last year: low-post scoring. But Philly’s turnaround last season was due to a shift to a fast-breaking style, so it will be interesting to see how the team adjust with Brand taking a lot of balls down low (although he is a great outlet passer on the defensive end). In addition, while having some great perimeter athletes, they don’t really have any shooters who scare you.

Toronto Raptors (+1100 to win East/+2200 to win NBA title): If there’s a team worth taking a longshot flier on this year with your betting money, this might be it. However, that is placing a lot of faith in Jermaine O’Neal. The Raptors acquired the five-time All-Star from Indiana for point guard T.J. Ford, and if O’Neal is healthy he gives Toronto potentially the best frontcourt in the East with Chris Bosh. But that’s a big if: O’Neal has played only 60 games once in the past four years.

Chicago Bulls (+1700 to win East/+2900 to win NBA title): The Bulls might be the East’s biggest mystery team. Last year they were picked by some to win the conference but instead took a major step back. Much of that was credited to contract issues with Luol Deng and Ben Gordon and those Kobe Bryant trade rumors. There were only two good things to come of last season: Chicago was able to dump Ben Wallace and it won the draft lottery and has its point guard for the next decade in Derrick Rose. There’s still a lot of talent here, but how it will jell under new coach Vinny Del Negro is anyone’s guess.

Atlanta Hawks (+1750 to win East/+3500 to win NBA title): Remember that the Hawks stretched the Celtics to the limit in the first round of last year’s playoffs. However, Atlanta did lose sixth man Josh Childress to Europe. But look at this team’s starting five: Mike Bibby, Joe Johnson, Josh Smith, Marvin Williams and Al Horford. That’s arguably as talented a starting five in the NBA – albeit raw. I think the Hawks edge out the Wizards for the final playoff spot, although Atlanta still will be limited by not having a center – Horford will play there out of place.

BETTER LUCK NEXT YEAR

Washington Wizards (+2100 to win East): Most experts have the Wizards sneaking into the playoffs, but this team looks in trouble to me. Gilbert Arenas had yet another knee surgery, and the Wizards’ best center, Brendan Haywood, might miss the entire season.

Indiana Pacers (+4200 to win East): The Pacers have three solid starters in T.J. Ford, the underrated Danny Granger and Mike Dunleavy, but their frontcourt is led by Troy Murphy and Jeff Foster or Rasho Nesterovic. Enough said.

Charlotte Bobcats (+3800 to win East): Coach Larry Brown is in Charlotte, so that should mean instant improvement. And they do get Sean May and Adam Morrison back this year. Playoffs aren’t an impossibility if Jason Richardson and Gerald Wallace have career years.

Milwaukee Bucks (+10000 to win East): Scott Skiles is the new coach here, and he should bring some needed discipline and a hard-nosed style. And Richard Jefferson is in Milwaukee for a full season. But this team still can’t defend anyone.

Miami Heat (+2000 to win East): Will almost assuredly be the NBA’s most improved team as far as wins and losses. Dwyane Wade is healthy and Michael Beasley will probably be the rookie of the year if Greg Oden isn’t. But other than Wade, Beasley and Shawn Marion, there isn’t much else.

New York Knicks (+5000 to win East): At least Isiah Thomas is gone, Knick fans (and apparently taking too many sleeping pills). And this team should be entertaining under new coach Mike D’Antoni, but it has miles to go and may be the worst defensive team in the league.

New Jersey Nets (+6000 to win East): It will be a long year in the New York area when it comes to basketball. The Nets are in full rebuild mode, hoping to outbid the Knicks for LeBron James in 2010. If only they could dump Vince Carter on someone.