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Date | Match Up | Rating | Score | Result | Profit | Lead Time | Analysis |
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11-04-18 | Chiefs v. Browns UNDER 51.5 | Top | 37-21 | Loss | -109 | 90 h 41 m | Show |
The set-up: The Browns will be leaving everything on the field today as they look to snap a three-game slide. KC enters off a 30-23 home victory over Denver, while Cleveland fell 33-18 to Pittsburgh last week. The teams: After their loss the Pats, the Chiefs come in having won two straight. The Chiefs average 36.2 PPG and they allow 25.6. Patrick Mahomes had four TD passes and an an INT last week. So far the Chiefs have been up to the task each week, but it’s not too hard to imagine the visitors getting caught looking past their lowly opponent today. The Browns have been trying hard each week, but so far that effort hasn’t translated into many wins or offensive production. Cleveland averages 21.1 PPG and it concedes 26.2. RB Nick Chubb had 65 rushing yards last week. The pick: Note that KC has seen the total go “under” the number in four of its last five as a favorite and in 13 of its last 18 after two or more consecutive SU wins, while Cleveland has seen the total go “under” in 14 of its last 19 at home and in three of four already as an underdog in the 3.5 to 9.5 points range. This number is high, play the “under.” |
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11-01-18 | Raiders v. 49ers UNDER 46 | Top | 3-34 | Win | 100 | 31 h 14 m | Show |
The set-up: Oakland comes in off its third straight loss, a 42-28 setback at home to the Colts. Derek Carr and company are just playing for pride at this point. So too are the 49ers, who have lost six straight, most recently an 18-15 setback on the road to Arizona. With nothing to play, on the short week and with each side dealing with injuries, points are going to be at a premium in my opinion. The teams: The Raiders have already shelved RB Marshawn Lynch after he had surgery last week. Oakland also made some moves in its bye week, trading star receiver Amari Cooper to Dallas for a first round pick. Winning this Thursday night game is not of the greatest importance to this team right now. The 49ers season went down the toilet when QB Jimmy Garoppolo went down with injury. The 49ers have seen four of their losses come by eight points or less, a testament their defensive and special teams play. The pick: The 49ers have been solid against the run and the Raiders have pretty much abandoned their ground game. The visitors offense is extremely one dimensional and I think the home side’s talented defensive unit will easily be able to make the adjustments to make things difficult on Carr from start to finish. This one has defensive battle written all over it. Play the under. |
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10-28-18 | Saints v. Vikings OVER 53 | Top | 30-20 | Loss | -105 | 29 h 4 m | Show |
The set-up: New Orleans comes in off a 24-23 road win over Baltimore, the league’s No. 1 defense, while Minnesota enters of a 37-17 dismantling of the Jets. These teams battled to a higher-scoring affair in the playoffs last year as well, with Minnesota eventually prevailing 29-24. The teams: The Saints are averaging the second most points in the league, which is a good thing as the defense has regressed from last season, allowing 27.2 PPG. Drew Brees has an insane 13/0 TD/INT ratio and a QBR of 121.6. Minnesota is averaging 25.3 PPG and and while it’s fifth in the league against the run defensively, it’s only 16th against the pass. Clearly that doesn’t bode particularly well facing the red hot Brees and company. The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but the Vikes have seen the “over” go 5-2 in their last seven following a SU victory. Both teams are “firing on all cylinders” offensively. Play the “over.” |
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10-25-18 | Dolphins v. Texans UNDER 44.5 | Top | 23-42 | Loss | -107 | 52 h 41 m | Show |
The set-up: Miami has lost three of its last four, most recently a 32-21 setback at home to Detroit, while Houston comes in on the other end of the spectrum, having won four straight, most recently a commanding 20-7 win on the road over Jacksonville. On the short week, I believe points will be at a premium. The teams: Miami was out gained 457-322 last week against a pretty bad Lions defense. And that doesn’t bode well this week facing a Texans’ defensive unit which is clearly “firing on all cylinders.” It wasn’t a pretty win last week by the Texans by any means, as they’d hold on for a slim 272-259 yardage edge in the victory. The pick: Miami’s only hope on offense is to run the ball today (18th in the league in rushing, but it’s rushed for at least 100 yards in five of seven games.) Dolphins’ QB Ryan Tannehill is injured and Brock Osweiler is “hit or miss.” The Texans have been getting the job done by letting DeShaun Watson “manage” the offense and I don’t think anything will change this week either. Note that Miami has seen the total go “under” in three of its last four as an underdog in the 3.5 to 9.5 points range, while Houston has seen the total go “under” in five of its last six after two or more consecutive SU victories. This number is high, play the “under.” |
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10-25-18 | Canadiens v. Sabres UNDER 5.5 | Top | 3-4 | Loss | -100 | 27 h 41 m | Show |
The set-up: I think this is a great “situational” play on the “under.” After a disastrous campaign last year, the Canadiens have been much better this year, most recently coming in off a hard-fought 3-2 win at home over the Flames. They’re 5-1-2 overall, including 4-1 at home, mostly due to vastly improved defensive play and goaltending from Carey Price. The Sabres are 5-4 overall and 2-2 at home, but after a successful 3-2 road trip, including winning back-to-back games, I think Buffalo suffers a predictable “letdown” offensively here. The pick: And take it for what you will as well, but the Sabres have seen the total go “under” the number in seven of their last nine following a two games or more unbeaten streak on the road. This number is high, play the “under.”
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10-23-18 | Flames v. Canadiens UNDER 6 | Top | 2-3 | Win | 100 | 12 h 60 m | Show |
The set-up: The Flames fell 5-3 at home to Nashville, but they got their road trip started off on the right foot with a 4-1 win over the Rangers on Sunday night. But with two nights off before back-to-back home games against Pittsburgh, Washington and then a road game at Toronto, it’s definitely not too difficult to imagine the visitors getting caught “looking ahead” here. For the Habs they had won three straight behind some rejuvenated defensive play and great goaltending, before then falling apart in a 4-3 OT loss at Ottawa. With an extended road trip started on Thursday, I think Montreal returns to form here. The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but the Habs have seen the total go “under” the number in 7 of their last 11 after allowing four or more goals in their previous outing. This number is high, play the “under. |
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10-21-18 | Browns v. Bucs UNDER 51 | Top | 23-26 | Win | 100 | 45 h 51 m | Show |
The set-up: Tampa’s fallen on hard times since starting out 2-0, coming into this one having lost three straight. Cleveland is 2-1 in its last three, but it got destroyed at home by the high-flying Chargers last weekend. I believe the conditions are right for a lower-scoring “under” between these two hungry teams. The teams: The Browns offense looked terrible last week against a pretty mediocre Chargers’ defense. Baker Mayfield was picked off twice and he only connected on 47.8 percent of his passes. So far he has a 4/5 TD:INT ratio. Mayfield doesn’t have many standout receivers, so look for Cleveland to try and establish the run here so as to alleviate some of the pressure of their rookie pivot. The Bucs fired defensive coordinator Mike Smith following a 34-29 setback to the Falcons last Sunday. With the shift in management, I believe we’ll see a marked improvement on that side of the ball this weekend. The pick: As mentioned off the top, I believe the “conditions” are right for a lower-scoring “chess match,” rather than a wide open “shoot-out.” Play the “under.” |
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10-20-18 | Oregon v. Washington State UNDER 68 | Top | 20-34 | Win | 100 | 46 h 10 m | Show |
The set-up: While it’s true that these two teams combine for 84 points and 967 yards per game this year, I believe tonight’s contest will fall “under” this sky-high number. Oregon looks primed for a bit of a letdown here in my opinion after playing ranked teams in three consecutive weeks, with two of those games going to OT. The teams: Oregon is averaging 43 PPG and it’s limiting opponents to 122.8 rushing yards per game. Also note that the Ducks are averaging 209.5 rushing yards per game themselves. I think we’re going to see a heavy dose of the run tonight. Washington State is averaging 41.8 PPG, as Gardner Minshew has 2,422 yards, 19 TD’s and four INT’s. The pick: Take it for what you will though, but Oregon has seen the total go “under” the number in four of its last six after two or more consecutive SU victories, while WSU has seen the total go “under” in four of its last six home games when the total is set between 63.5 and 70. This number is high, play the “under.”
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10-20-18 | Canadiens v. Senators UNDER 6 | Top | 3-4 | Loss | -115 | 11 h 29 m | Show |
The set-up: Shockingly I think, Montreal comes in having won four of its last five. It comes in off a strong 3-2 home win over St. Louis and I think it’ll carry over that momentum here, as the Habs continue to get much better defensive and goaltender play from Carey Price. The Sens have won two straight and they’ve scored nine goals in the process. Ottawa though is also getting excellent defensive play and goaltending, having allowed just two goals in the same span. The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but Montreal has seen the total go “under” the number in seven of its last ten after a two games or more unbeaten streak, while Ottawa has seen the total go “under” in eight of its last 13 home games when the line in the contest is set between -135 and +135. This number is high, play the “under.” |
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10-19-18 | Hornets v. Magic UNDER 218.5 | Top | 120-88 | Win | 100 | 11 h 44 m | Show |
The set-up: This one sets up great from a situational stand point. Charlotte played from behind all night in its heart-breaking 113-112 home loss to Milwaukee. Kemba Walker scored 41 points for the Hornets in that one but it still wasn’t enough. And with a game at Miami tomorrow night, the Hornets are also get caught “looking ahead” in my opinion as well. Orlando fought tooth and nail all night against the Heat in its opener and managed to pull away for the hard-fought 104-101 victory in the end. But with a game tomorrow night at Philly, I think the Magic also get caught looking ahead here as well. The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but Charlotte has seen the total go “under” the number in seven of its last nine after allowing 112 points or more in its previous outing. This number is a little high, play the “under.” |
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10-18-18 | Broncos v. Cardinals UNDER 42.5 | Top | 45-10 | Loss | -100 | 13 h 9 m | Show |
The set-up: Two struggling teams collide on a short week on Thursday night and in my opinion, points are going to be at a premium. Denver comes in having lost four straight, most recently a 23-20 setback to the Rams, while Arizona fell 27-17 in Minnesota to fall to 1-5. The teams: The Broncos gave up 323 yards on the ground in a 34-16 win in New York two weeks ago, only to then allow 270 yards to the Rams on the ground in last Sunday’s setback. QB Case Keenum is nothing more than a clock manager, as the run game, special teams and defense continue to lead the way. Arizona’s offense has been terrible this year, averaging only 13.6 PPG at home so far. Last week the Cardinals looked decent for the first half, before then falling apart in the second. The pick: This one isn’t going to be decided by the QB’s. It’s going to be decided in the trenches, by the defenses and by special teams play. Take it for what you will as well, but Denver has seen the total go “under” the number in ten of its last 13 against clubs with losing records, while Arizona has seen the total go “under” in 14 of its last 19 at home. Play the “under.” |
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10-16-18 | 76ers v. Celtics OVER 208.5 | Top | 87-105 | Loss | -105 | 36 h 48 m | Show |
The set-up: The Celtics knocked the 76ers out of the second round of the playoffs last year. Each team has a lot to play for this season and there’s a very good chance that this is a preview of what will become the Eastern Conference Finals in about seven months. Each team is now 100% healthy. Philadelphia has an elite core that will no doubt dominate this year, but if the 76ers hope to “take the next step,” their bench will have to step up this season. Philly has lost its opener in each of the last four years, so it’ll be eager here as well to break that string of futility. The Celtics are stacked and they welcome back Gordon Hayward and Kyrie Irving to an already deep and dangerous line-up. I believe the home side will be out to send a statement to the rest of the Eastern Conference tonight. The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but Boston has seen the total go “over” the number in seven of its last nine home games as a favorite in the -4 to -7 points range. This number is low, play the “over.” |
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10-15-18 | 49ers v. Packers OVER 46 | Top | 30-33 | Win | 100 | 12 h 57 m | Show |
The set-up: The 49ers are 1-4 and last place in the NFC West. This is a “must win” game for San Francisco if it hopes to compete in the playoffs. Starting QB Jimmy Garraopolo was lost to injury for the season three weeks ago, so it’s “do or die” tonight. The 2-2-1 Packers have looked brilliant at times this year and very pedestrian in others. Hall of Fame QB Aaron Rodgers will be eager to bounce back in front of the home town crowd. The teams: San Fran is now led offensively by RB Matt Breida, who is averaging 7.5 yards on 49 carries so far this year. QB CJ Beathard makes his third start after falling 29-27 to the Chargers most recently. Rodgers comes in sporting an elite 10:1 TD/INT and I have a hard time seeing San Francisco slowing him down tonight after the critics have been quick to jump on him after last week’s sub-par effort. The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but Green Bay has seen the total go “over” the number in 15 of its last 25 home games as a favorite of 9 points or more. I’m expecting a wide-open affair, play the “over.” |
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10-14-18 | Chiefs v. Patriots UNDER 59.5 | Top | 40-43 | Loss | -109 | 127 h 20 m | Show |
The set-up: The Chiefs have started 5-0, but the Pats come in off back-to-back victories and hungry for more after a lacklustre start. New England’s success in the past has had a lot to do with earning the first round bye in the playoffs and if it falls to the Chiefs here, it’s going to have to essentially “run the table” to duplicate that feat against this season. The teams: Patrick Mahomes had 313 yards and an INT in last week’s win over Jacksonville. The Chiefs’ young QB has so far answered every challenge to this point, but he’ll face his most difficult task to date. The Chiefs haven’t been great defensively this season, but so far they haven’t had to be. However, holding Bortles and the Jags to just 20 points last weekend was a big step in the right direction for the unit. New England comes in having won ten straight home games, but the Patriots still won’t want to turn this one into a “track meet” with the high-octane Chiefs. Look for Tom Brady to “control” this one while on offense. The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but KC has seen the total go “under” the number in 11 of its last 16 when the total in the contest is set between +3 and -3, while New England has seen the total go “under” in its last four as a home favorite of three points or less. This number is a little high, play the “under.”
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10-14-18 | Bears v. Dolphins UNDER 43 | Top | 28-31 | Loss | -115 | 120 h 1 m | Show |
The set-up: Chicago enters off an impressive 48-10 home win over Tampa Bay back on September 30th, while Miami comes in off a 27-17 road loss to Cincinnati. I’m expecting a hard-fought, lower-scoring “under” once it’s all said and done. The teams: Chicago is averaging 27.8 PPG, but more impressively is the fact that it’s allowing just 16.2 PPG, ranked third overall. QB Mitch Trubsky had 354 passing yards and six TD’s against the Bucs last weekend, his best ever game as a pro. Can anyone say “letdown” spot? Clearly Miami can ill afford to turn this one into a “track meet” and expect to hang with the high-flying Bears. Miami is averaging only 288 yards per game, ranked 30th in the NFL (19.8 PPG), while allowing 23.4. QB Ryan Tannehill had 185 passing yards, one TD and two INT’s last weekend. The pick: Take it for what you will, but Chicago has seen the total go “under” the number in five of its last eight as a favorite and in nine of its last 15 against teams with winning records, while Miami has seen the total go “under” in seven of its last 12 against teams with winning records and in seven of its last nine as an underdog in the 3.5 to 9.5 points range. This number is a little high, play the “under.”
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10-13-18 | Duke v. Georgia Tech UNDER 54.5 | Top | 28-14 | Win | 100 | 95 h 19 m | Show |
The set-up: Duke is in the basement of the ACC Coastal Division and the last thing it can do is turn this one into a “track meet” and expect to hang with the surging Yellow Jackets, who are looking for a third straight win. In my opinion, this number is a little hight. The teams: Duke would actually go on to destroy Georgia Tech 43-20 last year, but I think we’re going to see a much lower-scoring “chess match” on Saturday afternoon. The Blue Devils comes out of their bye week off a loss to VT, a game in which it allowed a season-worst 413 yards, including 332 through the air. Duke would allow 11.86 YPA to the Hokies, which nearly doubled their season mark coming in of 6.74. Good news came on the offensive end though, as starting QB Daniel Jones returned from injury to go 23 of 35 for 226 yards and a TD. The Blue Devils roared out to four straight wins last year as well, before then dropping six straight, so clearly the team will be out to avoid a similar fate this season. After three straight losses, the Yellow Jackets have won two straight, most recently steam-rolling Louisville 66-31 last weekend. The triple-option-offense posted a season-best 542 rushing yards, with QB TaQuaon Marshall going for 175 rushing yards and two TD’s. Note that it was the second straight game in which GT did not commit a turnover. The defense has been opportunistic as well, forcing 13 turnovers over the first six games. The pick: Take it for what you will, but Duke has seen the total go “under” the number in 13 of its last 17 against the conference and in nine of its last 11 off a loss against a conference rival, while GT has seen the total go “under” in five of its last seven after two or more SU victories and in four of its last five off a win against a conference rival. This number is high, play the “under.”
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10-07-18 | Raiders v. Chargers UNDER 53 | Top | 10-26 | Win | 100 | 24 h 49 m | Show |
The set-up: Each team comes in off a high-scoring, hard-fought victory last week and I believe they come in “gassed.” The Raiders held on for a 45-42 OT win over the Browns, while the Chargers held on for a 29-27 home victory over a San Francisco team which was using its back-up QB. The teams: The Raiders got a big game from Derek Carr last week, but overall the Oakland offense has been inconsistent this year. Marshawn Lynch though has been a pleasant surprise, as he’d go for 130 yards last week and he now has 300 yards total along with three major scores. The defense has been hit or miss this season as well, looking horrible last week. However, I think it does indeed catch a break here facing what I believe to be a tired Chargers side. LA is averaging 27.8 PPG and it’s allowing 30 PPG. Clearly that’s not a recipe for success. The Bolts have never had issues putting points on the board with Philip Rivers under center (he so far has 11 TD’s and two INT’s), but if the team hopes to take “the next step,” clearly its going to have to get things figured out on the defensive side of the ball. The pick: Take it for what you will though, but Oakland has seen the total go “under” the number in five of its last six as a road dog in the 3.5 to 7 points range, while LA has seen the total go “under” seven of its last ten against clubs with losing records. This number is a little high, play the “under.” |
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10-07-18 | Jaguars v. Chiefs OVER 49 | Top | 14-30 | Loss | -106 | 21 h 44 m | Show |
The set-up: Jacksonville comes in off a 31-12 home win over the Jets last week, while KC enters off a 27-23 road win over Denver. I think these AFC heavyweights “throw down” on Sunday. The teams: So far Jacksonville is averaging only 22 points, while allowing just 14. That’s first in the NFL. However, the Jags’ defense is about to face its stiffest test to date. Blake Bortles look great last week and he’s going to benefit in facing this porous Chiefs’ secondary this afternoon. KC leads the NFL with an average of 36.2 PPG. The Chiefs need to score a lot of points though, as the defense is allowing 28.8 PPG. So far QB Patrick Mahomes has a 14:0 TD/INT. The pick: Take it for what you will, but Jacksonville has seen the total go “over” the number in 11 of its last 16 when the line in the contest is set between +3 and -3, while KC has seen the total go “over” in three of its last four off a win against a division rival. This number is low, play the “over.” |
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10-05-18 | Sharks v. Kings UNDER 5.5 | Top | 3-2 | Win | 100 | 15 h 34 m | Show |
The set-up: San Jose lost 5-2 to Anaheim on Opening Night, an uncharacteristically poor start from goaltender Martin Jones. But I think we’ll see San Jose play a much tighter and more disciplined game here. LA opens its season tonight, looking to get back to the playoffs after getting bounced by Las Vegas in the first round. The teams: San Jose’s Jones will look to bounce back here and he has to be feeling confident as he’s 9-5 with a 2.06 GAA lifetime against the Kings. He’s also 59-50 with a 2.45 GAA lifetime away from friendly confines. LA counters with Jonathan Quick, who finished 33-31 with a 2.40 GAA last year and who is 15-16 with a 2.52 GAA lifetime against the Sharks. The pick: San Jose played terrible defense in its opener, but as I stated off the top, I think the team returns to form here. The stage is set for a classic goaltenders duel on Friday night. Play the “under.”
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10-05-18 | Rockies v. Brewers OVER 8 | Top | 0-4 | Loss | -110 | 8 h 14 m | Show |
The set-up: While yesterday’s game stayed “under” in the Brewers’ 3-2 win, I’m expecting more of a “slug-fest” between these hard-hitting clubs on Friday afternoon. The visitors hand the ball to Tyler Anderson, while the home side turns to Jhoulys Chacin. The teams: Anderson finished the regular season an unremarkable 7-9 with a 4.55 ERA. Anderson admittedly looked a lot better over September, but I’ll point out that he still owns a poor 5.02 ERA on the road this year. Chacin finished 15-8 with a 3.50 ERA. Chacin started the tie-breaker against the Cubs and while his team came out on top of that one, I think the quick turn-around here isn’t going to help the veteran. It’s difficult to say too many negative things about Chacin, so I won’t even bother trying. It’s just a bad spot in m opinion. The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but Colorado has seen the total go “over” the number in seven of its last nine National League day road games in which it’s an underdog on the +150 to +160 range. This number is low, play the “over.” |
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10-02-18 | Rockies v. Cubs UNDER 7 | Top | 2-1 | Win | 100 | 11 h 16 m | Show |
The set-up: Both teams had a chance yesterday in their divisional tie-breakers, but each came up short. Colorado lost 5-2 to the Dodgers and it now flies across the country to face the Cubs, who lost 3-1 to the Brewers. The winner of this Wild Card contest will fly to Milwaukee for the NLDS. Both teams struggled to plate runs yesterday and I think that’ll be the case again here as well. The visitors go with Kyle Freeland, while the home side goes with Jon Lester. The pitchers: Freeland finished the regular season 17-7 with a 2.85 ERA. He went 5-0 in September and he’s 9-1 with a 2.41 ERA in 14 starts since the Mid-Summer Classic. He’s 0-2 with a 4.15 ERA lifetime against Chicago, but that was then and this is now. Lester finished the reg. season 18-6 with a 3.32 ERA. He has won his past three starts and four of his five in September overall. In five career starts against the Rockies he’s 1-3 with a sharp 2.25 ERA.
The pick: I think this situation favors these red hot starters. Look for Freeland and Lester to battle deep and for this one to fall “under” once it’s all said and done. |
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09-29-18 | Stanford v. Notre Dame OVER 52 | Top | 17-38 | Win | 100 | 56 h 47 m | Show |
The set-up: The Cardinals enter off a 38-31 OT road win in Oregon and I think it’ll carry that offensive momentum over here. Notre Dame annihilated Wake Forest 56-27 and it’ll be out to push the pace as well. Note that these teams played to a higher-scoring affair last year as well when Stanford won 38-20. The teams: Cardinal’ QB KJ Costello was 19 of 26 for 327 yards, three TD’s and no INT’s in last week’s win. Stanford is 47th in the country in passing at 264 YPG. RB Bryce Love had 89 yards and a TD last week. The defense has been super, allowing only 13.5 PPG, but clearly that units faces its stiffest test of the season. Notre Dame is 71st in passing and 66th in total offense with 416.5 YPG. Last week Ian Book threw for 325 yards and two TD’s without an INT in the victory over the Deacons. The pick: Take it for what you will, but Stanford has seen the total go “over” the number in its last four as an underdog in the 3.5 to ten points range, while Notre Dame has seen the total go “over” the number in three of its last four against the Pac 12. This number is a little low, play the “over.” |
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09-27-18 | Vikings v. Rams OVER 49 | Top | 31-38 | Win | 100 | 27 h 23 m | Show |
The set-up: The Vikes are 1-1-1 and they’ll be laying everything on the line on the short week to try and score the upset here and avoid the 1-2-1 hole. LA is 3-0 and it’ll be out to avoid any letdowns here and to keep the foot on the gas from start to finish. I think points are going to be plentiful. The teams: The Vikes beat the 49ers 24-16 at home in Week 1 and then followed that up with a hard-fought 29-29 tie with Green Bay on the road. But Minnesota comes into this one off a terrible 27-6 home loss to Buffalo, a game in which it was a 17 point favorite. Two critical first half fumbles didn’t help their cause obviously. Another loss here and Minnesota’s season is “on the ropes” essentially. The Rams would love nothing more than to deliver the “knock out blow” as well. LA beat the Raiders 33-13 on the road on MNF in Week 1, then followed it up with a 34-0 destruction of Arizona in Week 2 and then last week it pulled away for the 35-23 home victory over the Chargers. QB Jared Goff had 354 yards and three TD’s last week. The pick: Minnesota can’t sit back and hope things work out. The Vikes’ offense has to produce tonight, or they’re going to get left behind by the high-powered Rams. LA’s greatest strength early it seems is that it can play any style of game. Wide open, defensive battle, either way it’s adapted its style early and done well in every scenario. I’m anticipating a more wide open affair today. Play the “over.” |
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09-27-18 | Pirates v. Cubs UNDER 9.5 | Top | 0-3 | Win | 100 | 10 h 59 m | Show |
The set-up: This series features a couple of competitive match-ups on the mound and there’s no doubt that this is one of them. I think runs will be at a premium in this one. The visitors hand the ball to Trevor Williams, while the home side goes with Jon Lester. The pitchers: Williams is so far 14-9 with a 3.04 ERA. He comes in off consecutive strong outings against the hard-hitting Brewers and he’s now given up two or fewer runs in 11 of his last 12 trips to the hill. Note as well that he’s 6-3 with a 3.18 ERA on the road. Lester is so far 17-6 with a 3.44 ERA. He comes in off a strong outing against the Reds on Saturday and he’ll now look to close out the season on a high note. Note that he’s 8-4 with a 2.92 ERA in all “night” games. The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but Chicago has seen the total go “under” the number in seven of its last nine National League night home games in which the line in the game is set between -150 and +150. This number is high, play the “under.”
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09-26-18 | Dodgers v. Diamondbacks UNDER 7.5 | Top | 2-7 | Loss | -100 | 13 h 26 m | Show |
The set-up: This series features a couple of very competitive match-ups on the mound and there’s no doubt that this is one of them. I think runs will be at a premium in this one. the visitors go with Ross Stripling on the hill, while the home side goes with Zack Greinke. The pitchers: Stripling is so far 8-5 with a 2.84 ERA. He comes in off a loss against the Cards on Sunday, but overall the right-hander has been great this year. Note that he has a sharp 1.14 WHIP over 117 innings and he’s been great in all “night” games with a 2.44 ERA. Greinke is so far 14-11 with a 3.21 ERA. He hasn’t been perfect this season, but he’s been fantastic at home, coming in with a sharp 6-4, 2.42 ERA in friendly confines. The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but LA has seen the total go “under” the number in eight of its last 13 National League night road games when the line in the game is set between -150 and +150. This number is high, play the “under.” |
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09-26-18 | Marlins v. Nationals OVER 9 | Top | 3-9 | Win | 102 | 6 h 31 m | Show |
The set-up: Wei-Yin Chen has likely been better than what his win/loss record would indicate, but he’s been terrible on the road. The Nationals made an over night pitching change, shelving Roark and going with Kyle McGowin. I think runs will be plentiful here. The pitchers: Chen is so far 6-11 with a 4.66 ERA. He’s 5-3 with a 1.62 ERA at home and 1-8 with a 9.29 ERA on the road. McGowin is so far 0-0 with a 6.75 ERA. He was amazing at the Triple-A level, but he was blown up in his first appearance in the big leagues. He draws a more favorable opponent tonight, but clearly the book is still out on the rookie at this point. The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but Miami has seen the total go “over” the number in seven of its last nine National League road day games in which the line in the game is set between -150 and +150. This number is low, play the “over.” |
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09-24-18 | Padres v. Giants OVER 7.5 | Top | 5-0 | Loss | -100 | 14 h 0 m | Show |
The set-up: Two starters who are likely happy to see the season coming to an end collide in this one. I think runs are going to be plentiful, as the visitors hand the ball to Bryan Mitchell, while the home side goes with Derek Holland. The pitchers: Mitchell is so far 1-4 with a 6.16 ERA. He fell to the Giants at home on Tuesday and he can’t be feeling too confident here either, as note that he’s just 1-3 with a 5.93 ERA in all “night” games this season. Holland is so far 7-8 with a 3.57 ERA. The ten year veteran has been serviceable this year, but note that he’s a poor 2-7 with a 4.78 ERA in all “night” games. The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but San Francisco has seen the total go “over” the number in eight of its last 13 National League night home games in which the line in the contest is set between -150 and +150. Two suspect starters here. I think these normally lighter-hitting line-ups take advantage. This number is low, play the “over.” |
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09-24-18 | Steelers v. Bucs OVER 54.5 | Top | 30-27 | Win | 100 | 12 h 0 m | Show |
The set-up: Two hungry teams collide on Monday night and I think points are going to be plentiful. Tampa is 2-0 to open the year with wins over New Orleans and Philadelphia, while Pittsburgh comes in desperate at 0-1-1, with a tie against the Browns, followed by a loss to the Chiefs. The teams: Pittsburgh’s defense is in shambles after allowing 21 points to Cleveland (14 of which came in the fourth quarter), along with 42 to Kansas City. KC posted 326 passing yards and Pat Mahomes had six TD’s. Mahomes was sacked just once and the Steelers defense has just two total turnovers over the first two weeks. While Ben Roethlisberger is down some offensive weapons, he’ll clearly be given the green light today to air the ball out. Tampa QB Ryan Fitzpatrick will look to take immediate advantage of the Steelers’ porous defense, so far he’s completed 78.7 percent of his passes for 819 yards, eight TD’s and one INT over the first two games. DeSean Jackson had five catches and 146 yards with two TD’s in the win over the Saints. The pick: Pittsburgh’s offense is going to have to put some points on the board today, because it knows that its defense isn’t going to stop anyone. This one has the feel of a wide-open shootout. Play the “over.” |
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09-24-18 | Pirates v. Cubs UNDER 8 | Top | 5-1 | Win | 100 | 9 h 8 m | Show |
The set-up: This series features a couple of very competitive match-ups on the mound and there’s no doubt that this is one of them. I think runs will be at a premium in this one. The visitors hand the ball to Jameson Taillon, while the home side goes with Cole Hamels. The pitchers: Taillon is so far 13-9 with a 3.24 ERA. He most recently struck out 11 and gave up four hits over seven scoreless frames in a victory over Kansas City on Tuesday. Note that he’s 8-5 with a 3.23 ERA on the road. Hamels is so far 9-10 with a 3.90 ERA. He’s been exceptional overall for his new team and he’ll now look to close strong. Note that he’s a “lights out” 9-4 with a 2.76 ERA in all “night” games this season. The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but Pittsburgh has seen the total go “under” the number in seven of its last nine National League road night games in which the line in the contest is set between -150 and +150. This number is high, play the “under.”
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09-23-18 | Phillies v. Braves UNDER 8 | Top | 1-2 | Win | 100 | 3 h 7 m | Show |
The set-up: This series features a couple of very competitive match ups on the mound and there’s no question that this is one of them. I think runs are going to be at a premium in this one. The visitors hand the ball to Aaron Nola, while the home side goes with Anibal Sanchez. The pitchers: Nola is so far 16-5 with a 2.44 ERA. He’s been scuffling a bit (for his standards anyways) over the last month, but the right-hander has to be feeling confident here as note that he’s 7-3 with a 2.27 ERA on the road. Sanchez is so far 6-6 with a 3.01 ERA. His career ERA is 4.02 and his career WHIP is 1.31, so this year’s 3.01 and 1.12 are massive improvements. Note as well that he owns a tiny 1.96 ERA in all “day” games this year. The pick: And take it for what you will, but Philadelphia has seen the total go “under” the number in seven of its last nine National League road day games in which the line in the contest is set between -150 and +150. This number is high, play the “under.”
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09-23-18 | Bengals v. Panthers UNDER 44 | Top | 21-31 | Loss | -115 | 118 h 8 m | Show |
The set-up: Both teams come in off high-scoring affairs last week, but I think points will be at more of a premium in this one. Cincinnati beat Baltimore 34-23, while Carolina fell 31-24 in Atlanta. The teams: So far the Bengals are averaging 34 PPG and allowing 23. The rush defense has been fantastic, ranked fourth overall, so that definitely negates a major strength/focus of the Panthers today. Carolina is averaging 20 PPG and allowing 19.5. The Panthers gave up 442 yards last week, so they’ll be out to atone today in front of the home town crowd. The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but Cincinnati has seen the total go “under” the number in its last four as a road dog of three point or less, while Carolina has seen the total go “under” in five of its last seven as a favorite. The conditions are definitely right for a lower-scoring “under.”
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09-23-18 | Saints v. Falcons UNDER 53 | Top | 43-37 | Loss | -109 | 118 h 8 m | Show |
The set-up: What’s the first thing that comes into your head when you think about these two teams? For me it’s high-flying offenses and very little defensive play. While that is in fact true most weeks, I think these two division rivals will play to more of a lower-scoring affair in Week 3. The teams: The Saints had less than 300 yards offense in the win over the Browns. The offense had 475 yards in a Week 1 loss to the Bucs. Overall though New Orleans can’t be happy with where it sits on either side of the ball. Last year the Saints made big strides because of improved defensive play and the team will have to continue that trend this season if it hopes to once again make a serious playoff run. After coming up short on three occasions in the red zone in a Week 1 loss to the Eagles, the Falcons went four-for-four last week. Overall Atlanta can’t be feeling too bad at this point at where it sits, especially from a defensive stand-point. The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but New Orleans has seen the total go “under” the number in three of its last four as a road dog of three points or less, while Atlanta has seen the total go “under” in eight of its last 12 off a divisional contest (and in six of its last nine off a win against a division rival.) This number is high, play the “under.”
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09-22-18 | Phillies v. Braves UNDER 8.5 | Top | 3-5 | Win | 100 | 5 h 21 m | Show |
The set-up: This series features a couple of very competitive match-ups on the mound and there’s no doubt that this is one of them. In my opinion runs are going to be at a premium this afternoon. The visitors go with Jake Arrieta, while the home side hands the ball to Mike Foltynewicz. The pitchers: Arrieta is so far 10-9 with a 3.77 ERA. He has been far from perfect this year, but I think the veteran has likely been just as good as Philadelphia could have possibly asked for to this point. Note that he owns a very respectable 3.70 ERA on the road. Foltynewicz is so far 11-10 with a 2.90 ERA. After giving up one run over a complete game victory over the Giants, he wasn’t quite as sharp in his latest outing against the Cards. Regardless the southpaw has also exceeded expectations to this point (note that Foltynewicz is 3-2 with a 2.28 ERA in all “day” games.) The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but Atlanta has seen the total go “under” the number in seven of its last nine National League day home games in which it’s a favorite in the -125 to -175 range. This number is high, play the “under.” |
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09-21-18 | Angels v. Astros UNDER 8 | Top | 3-11 | Loss | -115 | 13 h 2 m | Show |
The set-up: This series features a couple of competitive match-ups on the mound and this is one of them. I think runs will be at a premium in this game. The visitors hand the ball to Andrew Heaney, while the home side goes with Gerritt Cole. The pitchers: Heaney is so far 9-9 with a 3.97 ERA. He most recently gave up two earned runs while striking out four over five innings in a no-decision to Seattle on Saturday. Over his last 12 innings of work he’s allowed just two earned runs. Cole is so far 14-5 with a 2.88 ERA. He comes in off back-to-back strong outings and he’ll now be looking to close the regular season strong and improve upon his already impressive 7-2, 2.72 ERA record in front of the home town crowd. The pick: Take it for what you will, but note that the Astros have seen the total go “under” the number in ten of their last 14 night American League home games in which they’re a favorite in the -150 to -250 range. This number is high, play the “under.” |
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09-21-18 | Red Sox v. Indians OVER 8 | Top | 7-5 | Win | 100 | 12 h 2 m | Show |
The set-up: Clearly these are two very capable starters. This total is set low for a reason, but in my estimation, it’s a little too low. Admittedly these are two of the very best pitchers going head-to-head in this one, but this is also a couple of the hardest-hitting line-ups in the World as well. I look for this one to sneak “over” once it’s all said and done. The pitchers: Sale is so far 12-4 with a 1.92 ERA. He went three shutout innings in a no-decision to the Mets on Sunday. Sale has looked good early in his limited time and he’ll be worked back into his full load slowly. However, the fact that he could be on a short leash again here definitely is a major factor working in our favor on this play. Bauer is so far 12-6 with a 2.22 ERA. Bauer’s been out since mid-August with a lower-leg fracture. The Indians have already clinched a playoff spot, so the team has little to play for over the final two weeks. Bauer will have a couple of “tune-ups” to get back into form before the post-season. The pick: Neither of these work horse starters is expected to see much time tonight and because of that, I’m going to recommend a play on the “over.” |
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09-21-18 | Brewers v. Pirates OVER 8 | Top | 8-3 | Win | 100 | 12 h 56 m | Show |
The set-up: These veteran starters have looked brilliant at times this season and very poor in others. I think they’re going to “get the hook early” here though and because of that I expect this total to sneak “over” before it’s all said and done. The visitors hand the ball to Jhoulys Chacin, while the home side goes with Ivan Nova. The pitchers: Chacin is so far 14-8 with a 3.54 ERA. He’s been solid across the board, although he does sport a pedestrian 4.01 ERA in all “night” games. Nova is so far 9-9 with a 4.07 ERA. He most recently gave up one run off four hits over six innings in a win over these very Brewers on Saturday. Nova’s been better over the last month, but note that he’s still a terrible 3-7 with a 5.12 ERA in all “night” games. The pick: These veterans have admittedly been decent of late, but I’ll caution by pointing that out that the Pirates have in fact seen the total go “over” the number in seven of their last nine National League night home games in which the line in the contest is set between -135 and +135. This number is a little low, play the “over.”
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09-20-18 | Jets v. Browns OVER 39 | Top | 17-21 | Loss | -114 | 53 h 29 m | Show |
The set-up: New York is 1-1, looking great in Week 1, but stumbling in Week 2. Cleveland has been very competitive in both of its losses to open the season. These are two young and hungry teams looking for a big win on a short week and in my opinion, this one has “shootout” written all over it. The teams: New York has lost five of its last six on the road. QB Sam Darnold so far has 532 yards, three TD’s and three INT’s. The Jets are averaging 105.5 yards on the ground per game. The defense has been a bright spot early in allowing just 18.5 points, but I think that the unit comes in “gassed” on the short week. Cleveland is desperate. The Browns haven’t won a game since Christmas Eve 2016. QB Tyrod Taylor has 443 yards, two TD’s and two INT’s so far. The ground game has been a strength, averaging 135 YPG, with Carlos Hyde leading the charge with 105 yards and two TD’s. Cleveland has been decent defensively as well, allowing 21 PPG. The pick: If not for some “back luck,” the Browns could actually be 2-0 to start the season. I think the home side opens up the playbook today as it lays everything on the line to try and secure the victory on the National stage. Darnold and company won’t be going down without a fight though. Play the “over.” |
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09-20-18 | Tulsa v. Temple UNDER 56 | Top | 17-31 | Win | 100 | 46 h 41 m | Show |
The set-up: Tulsa comes in off a 29-20 loss at home to Arkansas State, while Temple comes in off an upset 35-14 road victory over Maryland. When these teams faced off last November 25th, it was Temple that ran away with the high-scoring 43-22 victory. While last year’s total flew well above the number, I think the 2018 match-up will produce a much lower-scoring combined final score. The teams: Tulsa is averaging 26.3 PPG and it’s allowing 28. QB Luke Skipper has 521 yards, four TD’s and three INT’s to this point. He also has 109 rushing yards and another major score on the ground. Shamari Brooks has 310 rushing yards and four TD’s. Last week the Golden Hurricane was out gained 409-339. The Owls opened the season 0-2, before last week’s surprise victory over the Terps. Temple had a ridiculous 429-195 yardage edge in the end. Overall the Owls average 27 PPG and allow just 23. QB Frank Nutile has 401 yards passing, four TD’s and four INT’s. RB Ryquell Armstead has 256 yards on 54 carries. The pick: Take it for what you will, but Tulsa has seen the total go “under” the number in four of its last six after two or more consecutive SU losses, while temple has seen the total go “under” the number in 11 of its last 17 as the favorite. This number is high, play the “under.”
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09-20-18 | Red Sox v. Yankees UNDER 8.5 | Top | 11-6 | Loss | -119 | 8 h 43 m | Show |
The set-up: This series features a couple of competitive match-ups on the mound and there’s no doubt that this is one of them. In my opinion, runs will be at a premium. The visitors hand the ball to Eduardo Rodriguez, while the home side goes with Masahiro Tanaka. The pitchers: Rodriguez is so far 12-4 with a 3.53 ERA. He hasn’t been perfect this year, but overall the right-hander is enjoying the best overall campaign of his career. Rodriguez has to be feeling confident in this spot as well as note that he’s 6-1 with a 3.20 ERA on the road this season. Tanaka is so far 12-5 with a 3.47 ERA. He most recently comes in off back-to-back strong outings. Tanka is 7-0 on the road and only 5-5 at home, but he owns a 3.56 ERA in friendly confines and there’s no reason not to think the Asian hurler won’t bring his “A” game here as well. The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but New York has seen the total go “under” the number in eight of its last 13 American League home games in which the line in the contest is set between -150 and +150. This number is high, play the “under.”
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09-19-18 | Cubs v. Diamondbacks OVER 8 | Top | 0-9 | Win | 100 | 22 h 28 m | Show |
The set-up: The Cubs’ Cole Hamels has for the most part looked fantastic since coming over in a trade from the Rangers. Not perfect though. The Diamondbacks’ Robbie Ray has endured up and down season as well. These starters have looked brilliant at times this year and very pedestrian in others. I think this one will sneak “over” the number in the end. The pitchers: Hamels is so far 9-9 with a 3.67 ERA. He’s been better on the road this year than in home situations, but there’s no question he faces a difficult opponent in a difficult venue tonight (note that the Cubs have seen the total go “over” in ten of their last 17 National League night road games when the line in the contest is set between +150 and -150.) Ray is so far 5-2 with a 4.14 ERA. He’s been much better in the second half of the season after a shaky first, but note that he still owns a poor 5.57 ERA at home this season. The pick: I believe these veteran starters are running out of gas as the season comes down the stretch and I think each will “get the hook early” in this one. As a result, look for this total to sneak OVER once it’s all said and done.
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09-18-18 | White Sox v. Indians UNDER 8 | Top | 3-5 | Push | 0 | 12 h 40 m | Show |
The set-up: This series features a couple of interesting match-ups on the mound and there’s no doubt that this is one of them. I think runs will be at a premium in this game. The visitors hand the ball to Carlos Rodon, while the home side goes with ace Corey Kluber. The pitchers: Rodon is so far 6-5 with a 3.10 ERA. He most recently gave up two runs off five hits while striking out five over six innings in a no-decision to Kansas City on Wednesday. Rodon hasn’t been perfect this year, but his 1.11 WHIP is elite and note that he has a sharp 3.08 ERA in all “night” games as well. Kluber is so far 18-7 with a 2.91 ERA. He most recently gave up four runs over 1.2 innings in a no-decision to Tampa Bay on Monday. It was his worst start of the year, but I don’t think there’s any need to over-react. Clearly the sub-par effort has to be considered an “outlier” at his point. The pick: Note that Kluber is 10-3 with a 2.05 ERA at home this season. And take it for what you will as well, but Cleveland has seen the total go “under” the number in seven of its last nine American League night home games in which it’s a favorite in the -200 to -300 range. This number is high, play the “under.” |
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09-18-18 | Red Sox v. Yankees OVER 9 | Top | 2-3 | Loss | -110 | 6 h 36 m | Show |
The set-up: This series features a couple of very interesting match-ups on the mound and there’s no doubt that this early afternoon Tuesday contest is one of them. I think runs are going to be plentiful this afternoon. The visitors hand the ball to Nate Eovaldi, while the home side goes with JA Happ. The pitchers: Eovaldi is so far 5-7 with a 4.22 ERA. He returns to the starting rotation for the remainder of the season. He’s been more “miss” than “hit” for the Red Sox this year though, a big reason why he was quickly shifted to the bullpen originally. Note that he’s been poor on the road with a 2-6, 5.68 ERA. Happ is so far 16-6 with a 3.75 ERA. Happ’s been as solid as New York could have possibly asked for since coming over from the Jays, but I will point out that he still does own a very pedestrian 4.90 ERA in all home instances this season. The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but Boston has seen the total go “over” the number in eight of its last 12 American League road games in which it’s an underdog in the -125 to -200 range. This number is low, play the “over.” |
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09-17-18 | Mets v. Phillies UNDER 7.5 | Top | 9-4 | Loss | -100 | 11 h 37 m | Show |
The set-up: This series features a couple of competitive match-ups on the mound and there’s no doubt that this is one of them. The visitors hand the ball to the red hot Zack Wheeler, while the home side goes with veteran Jake Arrieta. The pitchers: Wheeler is so far 11-7 with a 3.23 ERA. He most recently went eight shutout against the Marlins on Wednesday, striking out seven and issuing zero walks. To go along with his solid ERA he also sports an elite 1.12 WHIP along with a strong 175 strikeouts over 167.1 innings. Arrieta is so far 10-9 with a 3.66 ERA. For the most part the veteran has been as solid as the Phillies could have possibly hoped for this season and Arrieta surely feels confident in this spot as he comes in with a very respectable 4-3, 3.10 ERA at home this year. The pick: Take it for what you will as well but the Mets have seen the total go “under” the number in 11 of their last 17 National League road games in which the line in the contest is set between -135 and +135. This number is high, play the “under.” |
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09-16-18 | Colts v. Redskins UNDER 48.5 | Top | 21-9 | Win | 100 | 27 h 0 m | Show |
The set-up: Indianapolis fell 34-23 to the Bengals at home in its opener, while Washington took care of business in Arizona 24-6. The Colts hit the road for the first time in a hostile environment this season and I think they’ll have an even more difficult time moving the ball in Week 2. Indianapolis played better defensively than what last week’s score would indicate and I think the unit will have opportunities today as well. This number is high. The teams: Colts’ QB Andrew Luck had 319 passing yards, two TD’s and an INT last week. No. 1 RB Marlon Mack was out and he’s questionable for this one as well. WR TY Hilton had just five catches for 46 yards. As mentioned off the top, the defense was decent despite the final score, as one of the TD’s conceded was a defensive one. Washington QB Alex Smith had 255 passing yards and two TD passes last week. The run game stole the show offensively though with 182 combined, led by Adrian Peterson with 96. The defense was outstanding, holding the Cardinals to only 213 yards and 1 of 8 on third down attempts. The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but Indy has seen the total go “under” the number in four of its last five as an underdog in the 3.5 to 9.5 points range, while Washington has seen the total go “under” in five of its last six as a favorite in the same points range. This number is high, play the “under.” |
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09-16-18 | Chargers v. Bills OVER 42.5 | Top | 31-20 | Win | 100 | 27 h 60 m | Show |
The set-up: Both teams are hungry here after Week 1 setbacks. Both clubs looked horrible defensively last weekend and I think that’ll be the case here again as well. This number is a little low. The teams: The Bills lost 47-3 last week. Josh Allen has been named the starting QB in Week 2 after Nathan Peterman imploded. LeSean McCoy only had 22 yards last week, after finishing with over 1,100 last year. Clearly the only way the Buffalo offense can go is up. The defense gave up 369 yards, including allowing Baltimore to go 6 for 6 in the Red Zone. LA QB Philip Rivers will be looking to exploit the Bills’ weak pass defense. The Chargers were decent defensively last year, but the unit struggled in Week 1 and I think it’ll have its hands full here against a Buffalo offense that’s out to atone itself. The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but LA has seen the total go “over” in four of its last six as a favorite in the 3.5 to 9.5 points range, while Buffalo has seen the total go “over” in 12 of its last 15 at home. With each side pushing the pace and hungry for a win, I look for this total to fly “over” sooner, rather than later. |
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09-16-18 | Mets v. Red Sox UNDER 7.5 | Top | 3-4 | Win | 100 | 5 h 43 m | Show |
The set-up: This series features a couple of competitive match-ups on the mound and there’s no question that this is one of them. The visitors hand the ball to ace Jacob deGrom, while the home side goes with ace Chris Sale. The pitchers: deGrom is so far 8-9 with a 1.71 ERA. The Mets right-hander has been nearly perfect this season and he’s been especially tough on the road where he’s a “lights out” 5-3 with a 1.66 ERA. Sale is so far 12-4 with a 1.96 ERA. He returned on Tuesday to throw a scoreless frame against Toronto, giving up one hit and striking out two. Sale’s been out since August 12th, but he’s re-habed successfully, made a successful first appearance and now he’s been given the green light to make his first start. The pick: Note that Sale is 4-2 with a 1.92 ERA at home and 5-1 with a 1.55 ERA in all “day” games. Take it for what you will as well, but Boston has seen the total go “under” the number in seven of its last ten American League home day games in which it’s a favorite in the -125 to -200 range. This number is high, play the “under.” |
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09-15-18 | Hawaii v. Army UNDER 62.5 | Top | 21-28 | Win | 100 | 20 h 50 m | Show |
The set-up: Two teams hungry for a victory collide on Saturday afternoon and in my opinion, points are going to be at a premium. The teams: Hawaii is already 3-0 with wins over Rice, Navy and Colorado State. The Warriors have defied the odds to this point, most recently smashing Rice 43-29 as a 17 point favorite this past weekend. QB Cole McDonald was 22 of 33 for 319 yards and four TD’s last week, but I think Hawaii finally stumbles here against the Black Knights opportunistic defense and in this difficult road venue. Army is 1-1 after losing to Duke its opener, before then bouncing back with a victory over Liberty. The Black Knights rushed for 449 yards last week and they’ll be looking to duplicate that performance here. The last thing Army wants to do is get into a “track meet” with the high-flying Warriors, so expect the home side offense to try and maintain possession for as long as possible, whenever possible. The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but Hawaii has seen the total go “under” the number in five of its last eight as an underdog in the 3.5 to ten points range, while Army has seen the total go “under” in interestingly seven of its last ten games played in the month of September. This number is a little high, play the “under.” |
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09-15-18 | Liverpool v. Tottenham Hotspur UNDER 3 | Top | 2-1 | Push | 0 | 19 h 59 m | Show |
The set-up: These are two of the top teams in the league. Liverpool has a perfect record after four games, while Tottenham is 3-1. The teams: The attacking trio of Salah, Mane and Firmino is a formidable one for Liverpool. This will be its stiffest test defensively though and I think the team is going to put a concerted effort on that end of the field today after some somewhat sloppy play on that side of the ball to open the campaign. The Hotspur won 3-0 at Old Trafford, before then being humbled 2-1 by Watford. Mauricio Pochettino’s men looked disinterested and inconsistency in form has plagued Tottenham for years now. The pick: These are two dangerous offensive teams, but with each looking for the other to make the first mistake, I’m anticipating a lower-scoring battle today. Play the “under.” |
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09-14-18 | Dodgers v. Cardinals UNDER 8 | Top | 3-0 | Win | 100 | 12 h 11 m | Show |
The set-up: This series features a couple of competitive match-ups on the mound and there’s no doubt that this is one of them. I believe runs will be at a premium in this National League contest Friday night. The visitors hand the ball to Walker Buehler, while the home side goes with Joe Flaherty. The pitchers: Buehler is so far 6-5 with a 3.09 ERA. He most recently gave up four runs over six innings (striking out seven) in a loss to Colorado on Saturday. Coors Field though is a difficult one for most pitchers, so I’m not reading too much into one sub-par effort. Note that Buehler still owns an awesome 2.23 ERA in all “night” games. Flaherty is so far 8-6 with a 2.92 ERA. He most recently gave up three runs over five innings while striking out six in a loss to Detroit on Saturday. Flaherty looks to get back on track here and improve upon his already impressive 2.68 ERA in front of the home town crowd this season. The pick: Take it for what you will as well by LA has seen the total go “under” in eight of its last 13 National League road night games in which the line in the contest is set between -150 and +150. This number is high, play the “under.”
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09-14-18 | Blue Jays v. Yankees OVER 9 | Top | 0-11 | Win | 103 | 11 h 1 m | Show |
The set-up: The Jays Marco Estrada was dominant in 2015, but it’s now the end of 2018 and the veteran has been sliding ever since. The Yanks’ Masahiro Tanaka has looked downright dominant at times this season, but also plain horrible in others. I think runs are going to be plentiful in this one Friday night. The pitchers: Estrada is so far 3-11 with a 5.32 ERA. He most recently gave up two runs off five hits with two walks while striking out five over six innings in a no-decision to the Tribe on Friday. Previous to that though he’d bee shelled for 11 runs over 6.1 innings, spanning two starts. Note that he’s just 4-5 with a 5.57 ERA on the road as well. Tanaka is so far 11-5 with a 3.61 ERA. He comes in off a dominant outing against the Mariners on Friday, going eight shutout and striking out ten. Tanaka has been considerably more consistent than his inconsistent counterpart this year, but note that he’s still a pedestrian 4-5 with a 4.33 ERA at home this season. The pick: Take it for what you will as well but the Yanks have seen the total go “over” the number in seven of their last nine American League night home games in which they’re a favorite in the -175 to -275 range. This number is low, play the “over.” |
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09-14-18 | Georgia State v. Memphis OVER 60 | Top | 22-59 | Win | 100 | 11 h 58 m | Show |
The set-up: The home side will be eager to return to form here after a tough setback at Navy last weekend, eventually succumbing 22-21. Georgia State will be out to score an upset here and to atone for a lacklustre 41-7 loss to NC State last Saturday. This is the first ever meeting between the schools and I think each is going to be a wide open affair. The teams: Georgia State scored the first TD of the game last week, but then it was shut down and outscored by 41 points the rest of the way. QB Dan Ellington threw for 194 yards. In his team’s season opening win over Kennesaw State he threw for 187 yards. But the Panthers defense is atrocious in the early going, most recently allowing the Wolfpack to throw for 426 yards. In fact the secondary returns just one starter. Memphis smashed FCS Mercer 66-14, but it couldn’t hold on to a 21-9 lead over the Black Knights last week. Darrell Henderson had three TD runs, including 78 yard and 59 yard scampers. QB Brady White was 15 of 25 for 145 yards. The defense gave up 264 total yards. Last year the defense was a weak point, ranked 117th in the nation. The pick: The Tigers were particularly poor against the pass last year as well, ranked 122nd by allowing 282.1 YPG. Memphis didn’t have to worry about Army passing, but it’s going to have its hands full today with a Panthers team looking to air it out early and often. This one just screams “shootout.” Play the “over.” |
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09-13-18 | Ravens v. Bengals UNDER 44.5 | Top | 23-34 | Loss | -110 | 27 h 55 m | Show |
The set-up: This is an important early season divisional match-up. Both teams enter off high-scoring Week 1 victories, but on the short turn-around on Thursday night I’m expecting more of a “chess match” than a “run and gun shootout.” The teams: Baltimore opened the season with a 47-3 destruction of the Bills. The Ravens’ starters were rested for a great deal of the Week 1 blowout, including Joe Flacco, who was 25 of 34 for 236 yards and three TD’s. The Ravens’ defense was downright dominant though, holding the Bills to only 83 rushing yards and 70 passing yards. Cincinnati opened the year with a come-from-behind 34-23 road victory over the Colts. QB Andy Dalton was 21 of 28 for 243 yards, two TD’s and an interception. Last year the Bengals finished last in the NFL with only 280.5 yards of offense per game, so clearly this Week 1 victory was a step in the right direction. However, Dalton and company, especially WR AJ Green, have struggled against the Ravens’ ferocious defensive attack in the past and I think that’s going to be the case again here tonight also. The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but Baltimore has seen the total go “under” the number in eight of its last 12 against the division, while Cincinnati has seen the total go “under” in ten of its last 16 as an underdog. This number is high, play the “under.” |
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09-12-18 | Yankees v. Twins UNDER 9 | Top | 1-3 | Win | 100 | 13 h 51 m | Show |
The set-up: This series features a couple of interesting match-ups on the mound and this is one of them. I think the Yanks’ Luis Severino and the Twins’ Jake Odorizzi will fight deep into the latter frames, which will in turn result in pushing this total “under” the number at the end of the night. The pitchers: Severino is so far 17-7 with a 3.52 ERA. After a disastrous August, Severino has looked more steady of late. While he’s been better at home than on the road, note that he still owns a very respectable 3.65 ERA in all “night” games. Odorizzi is so far 5-10 with a 4.57 ERA. Last year he was 10-8 with a 4.14 ERA, so 2018 has clearly been a step back for the hard-throwing right-hander. He’s coming off a loss against the Astros last week and while his ERA is nothing to write home about, I’ll point out that he does own the respectable 1.26 WHIP and 148:61 K/BB over 147.2 frames of work. The pick: Take it for what you as well, but New York has seen the total go “under” the number in 15 of its last 24 American League road games in which it’s a favorite in the -150 to -200 range. This number is high, play the “under.” |
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09-11-18 | Marlins v. Mets UNDER 6.5 | Top | 5-3 | Loss | -105 | 9 h 44 m | Show |
The set-up: This series features a couple of interesting match-up on the mound, and this is one of those. The visitors go with Jose Urena, while the home side hands the ball to Jacob deGrom. The pitchers: Urena is so far 5-12 with a 4.41 ERA. He most recently gave up one run off four hits while striking out seven over seven innings in a victory over the Phillies on Monday. deGrom is so far 8-8 with a 1.68 ERA. He most recently gave up one run off two hits and a walk while striking out six over six innings in a no-decision to the Dodgers on Monday. deGrom’s scheduled start was postponed on Monday due to rain, so he comes into this one with extra rest. The pick: deGrom has been even tougher at home on opponents than on the road, as evidenced by his tiny 1.59 ERA in such instances. Note as well that New York has seen the total go “under” the number in 12 of 20 this year as a home fav in the -125 to -175 range. This number is a little high, play the “under.” |
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09-10-18 | Rams v. Raiders OVER 47.5 | Top | 33-13 | Loss | -106 | 21 h 25 m | Show |
The set-up: LA catches a break here after Jon Gruden traded defensive star Khalil Mack to the Bears for some draft picks. The Rams had the league’s highest scoring offense last year, so we can absolutely expect the visitors to push the pace and open up the playbook from start to finish. The teams: LA went 2-2 in the preseason, but it would rest most of its starters over those four games. Jared Goff and Todd Gurley are back and they now welcome dangerous WR Brandin Cooks to the mix. The Rams spent a ton of money on the defensive side of the ball in the offseason, but I think the unit will struggle on opening night. Jordy Nelson will be the main WR in Oakland now that Michael Crabtree is gone. Amari Cooper will also be hoping for a much better season after totalling just 680 yards in 14 games last season. The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but Oakland has seen the total go “over” the number in seven of its last nine Week 1 home games when the total in the contest is between 47 and 50 points. With LA pushing the tempo of this one and with the home side having no choice but to match pace, I’m banking on this one flying “over” sooner, rather than later. |
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09-09-18 | Bears v. Packers UNDER 48 | Top | 23-24 | Win | 100 | 153 h 16 m | Show |
The set-up: It’s an important early NFC North match-up on Sunday Night Football and when the smoke clears at the end of this one, I think it’ll be the defenses from each side which will define this contest in the end. Chicago hasn’t been to the playoffs since 2010, while Green Bay missed the postseason last year with QB Aaron Rodgers injured. The teams: Chicago got Khalil Mack from Oakland and he’s going to make an immediate impact on an already stacked defensive uint: “We’ll get to see where he’s at mentally and then physically we’ll have a practice and get an idea, and then we’ll just kind of have to listen to his feedback where he’s at,” head coach Matt Nagy said earlier in the week. “We told him, communication is imperative here.” The defense also has standouts Akiem Hick and CB Prince Amukamara. Rodgers is back under center for Green Bay and he looks primed for another productive campaign. However note that the Pack head into the 2018/19 campaign after massive organizational turnover, because of last year’s losing effort. Rodgers is fantastic, but there are still a few questions that need to be answered for Green Bay in my opinion. The pick: I think the Packers are a bit one-dimensional and the new look Bears offense is going to be able to slow it down and take advantage. This one has the feel of a “chess match,” rather than a “run and gun” shootout. Play the “under.” |
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09-09-18 | Cowboys v. Panthers OVER 42.5 | Top | 8-16 | Loss | -110 | 149 h 21 m | Show |
The set-up: Two teams which fell well below expectations last year collide on opening day on Sunday afternoon and in my opinion, points appear plentiful. The teams: Dez Bryant and Jason Witten are gone, but the Cowboys are in good hands with Dak Prescott and a fully healthy and ready to go Ezekiel Elliot. Dallas has a lot of questions on both sides of the ball, but the offense is going to be given the green light to “air it out” all day long this afternoon. The Panthers went 3-1 in the preseason, dropping only their Week 4 contest. Cam Newton had a strong camp and I think he’ll have a big day here against a Cowboys’ defense which also has many question marks surrounding it. Kelvin Benjamin, Greg Olsen and Devin Funchess highlight a deep overall offense for Carolina. The pick: Newton looked good under new offensive coordinator Norv Turner’s schemes in the pre-season, which doesn’t bode well for the visitors today. Prescott and company will be forced to match pace and in the end, look for this one to fly “over” sooner, rather than later. |
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09-08-18 | Marlins v. Pirates OVER 8 | Top | 1-5 | Loss | -100 | 6 h 40 m | Show |
The set-up: For the most part these starting pitchers have struggled this year. Two veterans who have seen better days collide on Saturday afternoon and runs would appear to be plentiful. The visitors go with Wei-Yin Chen, while the home side goes with Ivan Nova. The pitchers: Chen is so far 6-9 with a 4.64 ERA. He comes in on a bit of “tear” having won two straight, most recently going eight innings. However, I’m not convinced that Chen has suddenly “turned a corner,” as note that he’s still owns a poor 5.55 ERA in all “day” games and he’s a terrible 1-6 with a 9.35 ERA on the road. Nova is so far 7-9 with a 4.35 ERA. His last start was skipped over due to a personal issue and while he’s been much better at home than on the road, I still think his overall inconsistency from game-to-game becomes a factor again today. The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but Pittsburgh has seen the total go “over” the number in 15 of its last 25 day National League home games in which it’s a favorite in the -125 to -175 range. This number is low, play the “over.” |
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09-07-18 | Astros v. Red Sox UNDER 8.5 | Top | 6-3 | Loss | -100 | 11 h 55 m | Show |
The set-up: This series features a couple of very competitive match-ups on the mound and there’s no doubt that this is one of them. The visitors hand the ball to Gerrit Cole, while the home side goes with David Price. The pitchers: Cole is so far 13-5 with a 2.86 ERA. He most recently gave up two runs while striking out nine over six innings in a victory over the Angels on Sunday. Cole clearly comes in confident here sporting a 6-3, 2.79 ERA record on the road as well. Price is so far 14-6 with a 3.60 ERA. He got hit by a liner in his last start, but he’s been given the green light to go here. Price is putting together one of his best campaigns of his career as well, note that he’s 7-2 with a 3.01 ERA at home so far. The pick: This is a great match-up and I expect these two “studs” to fight into the latter frames. And as a result, look for this one to sneak “under” once it’s all said and done. |
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09-06-18 | Falcons v. Eagles OVER 45 | Top | 12-18 | Loss | -105 | 81 h 19 m | Show |
The set-up: Two teams with something to prove in 2018/19 collide on Opening Night and in my opinion, scoring is going to be plentiful. The Falcons lost to Philadelphia 15-10 in the NFC Divisional playoffs back on January 13th and they’ll obviously be looking to avenge that setback. Philadelphia has question marks all over the place, but the defending champs are still loaded with talent on both sides of the ball. The teams: Last year the Falcons led the league in dropped passes with 30. QB Matt Ryan will be expecting better from his talented group this year. Ryan had 4,095 yards, 20 touchdowns and 12 interceptions last season. Julio Jones had 1,444 receiving yards, but just three major scores. ATL still possess one of the best “one-two” RB combo’s in Tevin Coleman and Devonta Freeman as well. The Eagles allowed only 19.7 PPG last year, but note that they had just eight INT’s overall. Carson Wentz? Nick Foles? Whoever starts under center for Philadelphia, the home side is in good hands. In three playoff games Foles completed 72.6 percent of his passes. Jay Ajayi is the main RB now, along with Corey Clement, who is a great pass catcher out of the backfield. The strength of the offense is the line though and it will be once again this year as well with the return of Pro Bowl LT Jason Peters. The pick: The last thing Atlanta can do here is play to the Eagles “pace.” Look for the high-flying visitors to push the tempo from start to finish and expect this total to soar “over” as it comes down the stretch. |
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09-06-18 | Padres v. Reds OVER 8.5 | Top | 6-2 | Loss | -116 | 21 h 28 m | Show |
The set-up: Neither pitcher can be satisfied with their overall performance in 2018. The Padres turn to Eric Lauer, while the Reds go with Luis Castillo. The pitchers: Lauer is so far 5-7 with a 5.01 ERA. He most recently gave up one run off no hits with two walks while striking out two over five innings against the Rockies on Thursday. He only generated three swinging strikes though and note that a date on the road is not what the doctor ordered to carry over the momentum, as Lauer is a poor 2-3 with a 5.98 ERA away from friendly confines this season. Castillo is so far 8-11 with a 4.83 ERA. He most recently comes in off a strong effort as well, going 6.2 scoreless and striking out 11 in a victory over St. Louis on Saturday. Castillo has admittedly looked a bit better of late, but note that he’s still owns a very pedestrian 4.67 ERA in all night games. The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but the Reds have seen the total go “over” the number in ten of their last 16 night National League home games in which they’re a favorite in the -105 to -150 range. This number is low considering the inconsistencies of these starting pitchers, play the “over.”
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09-05-18 | Orioles v. Mariners OVER 8 | Top | 2-5 | Loss | -100 | 14 h 28 m | Show |
The set-up: This American League match-up on Wednesday night features two pitchers who have seen better days. I expect the total to eclipse the number sooner, rather than later in this one. The visitors go with Andrew Cashner, while the home side goes with Mike Leake. The pitchers: Cashner is so far 4-13 with a 4.86 ERA. He most recently gave up four runs off nine hits with three walks over 5.1 innings while striking out one in a loss to the Royals on Friday. Note that Cashner comes in sport a terrible 2-7, 5.27 ERA record on the road. Leake is so far 8-9 with a 4.25 ERA. He most recently gave up five runs off seven hits in a loss to Arizona on Sunday. Overall Leake’s been solid for the most part this season, although not really at home with a pedestrian 3-5, 4.29 ERA record. The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but note that Seattle has seen the total go “over” the number in seven of its last ten night American League home games in which it’s a favorite in the -125 to -200 range. This number is low, play the “over.” |
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09-05-18 | Red Sox v. Braves OVER 8.5 | Top | 9-8 | Win | 100 | 4 h 29 m | Show |
PITCHING CHANGE! NO PLAY! |
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09-04-18 | Red Sox v. Braves OVER 8.5 | Top | 5-1 | Loss | -124 | 12 h 37 m | Show |
The set-up: These starters have looked brilliant at times this year and poor in others. Neither has looked great of late though and I think each is going to get the hook early in this one. The visitors hand the ball to Rick Porcello, while the home side goes with Sean Newcomb. The pitchers: Porcello is so far 15-7 with a 4.27 ERA. He most recently gave up three runs off six hits with two walks over five innings in a loss to Tampa Bay on Saturday. Over five August starts Porcello stumbled to a 2-3, 4.78 ERA performance. Newcomb is so far 11-7 with a 3.85 ERA. He most recently was rocked for six runs off eight hits with two walks in a loss to the Rays on Wednesday. Over his last four starts he’s posted a horrible 8.48 ERA and clearly that doesn’t bode well facing the league’s No. 1 offense. The pick: I think Porcello takes a step back in this difficult National League venue, while Newcomb also looks poised to continue his spiral down the proverbial crapper against this elite hitting line-up. This number is a little low, play the “over.” |
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09-03-18 | Virginia Tech v. Florida State UNDER 55 | Top | 24-3 | Win | 100 | 13 h 38 m | Show |
The set-up: It’s an important ACC match-up on Monday night between the No. 20 VT Hokies and the No. 19 FSU Seminoles. The teams: Virginia Tech was 9-4 last year and 5-3 in in league play, which was then followed by a 30-21 loss to OK State in the Camping World Bowl. Last year the Hokies averaged 28.2 PPG and allowed just 14.8. While duplicating those suffocating defensive numbers will be difficult with many of those key players gone, the pieces are still in place for another productive campaign on that side of the ball. Josh Jackson is the man under center and he finished with a 20/9 TD/INT and had 324 rushing yards as well. Florida State went 7-6 last year and 3-5 in ACC play, followed by a loss to Southern Mississippi in the Independence Bowl. The Seminoles averaged 27.8 PPG last year and they allowed 21.2. The defense was a strength last season and it will be again this year as well with many of the starters returning. Deondre Francois is the starting QB and he missed most of last season with injury. The pick: Take it for what you will, but VT has seen the total go “under” the number in its last two as an underdog in the 3.5 to ten points range, while FSU has seen the total go “under” in ten of its last 15 against the conference. This number is high, play the “under.”
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09-03-18 | Red Sox v. Braves UNDER 9 | Top | 8-2 | Loss | -100 | 6 h 33 m | Show |
The set-up: This series features a couple of competitive match-ups on the mound and this is one of them. For a number of different reasons I think runs will be at a premium in this game. The visitors hand the ball to Nate Eovaldi, while the home side goes with Touki Toussaint. The pitchers: Eovaldi is so far 5-7 with a 4.35 ERA. After an unreal start for the Red Sox, Eovaldi predictably came crashing back down to Earth shortly after. Eovaldi hasn’t forgotten how to pitch though and note that he’s been at his best in all “day” games by posting a 4-1, 1.95 ERA record. Toussaint is 1-0 with a 1.50 ERA. In his first outing for the Braves he’d impress everyone by giving up one run over six innings in a victory over Miami. Clearly the Red Sox present an entirely different challenge, but the rookie showed enough to impress me to make me think he’ll be able to last into the latter frames again here. The pick: I think there’s a ton of value on the “under” as I expect these hungry starting pitchers to fight into the latter frames. This number is just a little high, play the “under.” |
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09-02-18 | Miami-FL v. LSU UNDER 47 | Top | 17-33 | Loss | -105 | 11 h 38 m | Show |
The set-up: This is the lone game on Sunday night and for a number of different reasons, I think that points will be at a premium. Note that this is being played at a neutral field, at AT&T Stadium in Dallas. The teams: Miami Florida was 10-3 last year, including 7-2 in the ACC, followed by a setback to Wisconsin in the Orange Bowl. The Hurricanes return QB Malik Rosier, who had 3,120 passing yards and a 26:14 TD/INT along with 468 rushing yards. Miami averaged 29.1 PPG and it allowed just 21. LSU was 9-4 last year and 6-2 in SEC play, which was followed by a loss to Notre Dame in the Citrus Bowl. The Tigers have a big void to fill this season with QB Danny Etling gone. Myles Brennan and Joe Burrow will be duking it for the No. 1 spot. LSU averaged 27.2 PPG last year, but I think it’ll struggle to match that pace early. The defense was a strength (giving up only 18.9 PPG) and it will be again this year as well. The pick: These teams both have question marks on offense coming into the season, but each looks ready to build off an impressive defensive campaign with an even better performance this year. This number is a little high, play the “under.” |
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09-02-18 | Mariners v. A's OVER 9 | Top | 2-8 | Win | 100 | 7 h 6 m | Show |
The set-up: Two pitchers who have seen better days collide on Sunday afternoon in this American League match-up. I believe runs will be plentiful with the Mariners turning to Felix Hernandez and the A’s going with Edwin Jackson. The pitchers: Hernandez is so far 8-12 with a 5.49 ERA. Hernandez has admittedly looked a lot better since an early August move to the bullpen in two subsequent starts, but note that he’s still a brutal 4-7 with a 6.95 ERA on the road. Jackson is so far 4-3 with a 3.03 ERA. After an un-sustainable start to his 2018/19 campaign, he’s come back down to Earth of late. Regardless though, Jackson has been decent overall, but note that he still owns a rather pedestrian 4.17 ERA in all “day” games. The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but Seattle has seen the total go “under” the number in ten of its last 14 day American League road games in which it’s an underdog in the +105 to +150 range. This number is a little low, play the “over.” |
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09-02-18 | Tigers v. Yankees OVER 8.5 | Top | 11-7 | Win | 100 | 4 h 11 m | Show |
The set-up: This match-up on the mound features two pitchers who come into the end of the season struggling. The visitors hand the ball to Matt Boyd, while the home side goes with Lance Lynn. The pitchers: Boyd is so far 8-12 with a 4.22 ERA. He most recently comes in off a poor outing against the light-hitting Royals on Wednesday and while Boyd’s likely pitched better than what his win/loss record would indicate, note that he’s still a very poor 2-9 with a 5.95 ERA on the road this year. Lynn is so far 8-9 with a 4.84 ERA. After a great stretch, Lynn has come back down to Earth of late for the Yanks. Note that he owns a poor 2-4, 5.90 ERA in all “day” games this season also. The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but New York has seen the total go “over” the number in seven of its last nine day American League home games in which it’s a favorite in the -125 to -200 range. This number is a little low, play the “over.” |
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09-01-18 | Diamondbacks v. Dodgers UNDER 7 | Top | 2-3 | Win | 100 | 22 h 50 m | Show |
The set-up: This series features a couple of competitive match-ups on the mound and there’s no question that this is one of them. The visitors hand the ball to Patrick Corbin, while the home side goes with Clayton Kershaw. The pitchers: Corbin is so far 10-5 with a 3.15 ERA. He most recently gave up two runs while striking out eight over six innings in a victory over the Angels on Tuesday. While he didn’t factor into the decision, he still posted 18 swings and misses and over four trips to the hill in August he went 3-0 with a 2.73 ERA and 32:2 K/BB. Note that he’s 4-2 with a 3.04 ERA on the road. Kershsaw is so far 6-5 with a 2.39 ERA. He most recently gave up three runs off seven hits while striking out nine over eight innings in a no-decision to the Padres on Saturday. 77 of his 107 pitches went for strikes. Note that Kershaw haw now gone seven-plus innings in three of his last six outings. The pick: No big surprises here, just a classic “duel” on the West Coast. Play the “under.”
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09-01-18 | Louisville v. Alabama UNDER 60.5 | Top | 14-51 | Loss | -107 | 119 h 49 m | Show |
The set-up: This is a neutral site affair and I think points will be at a premium. Louisville was 8-5 last year and it lost 31-27 to Mississippi State in the TaxSalyer Bowl, while Alabama went 13-1 and won the College Football Championship with a 26-23 OT win over Georgia. The teams: The Cardinals were 8-5 last year and only 4-4 in the ACC. Heisman QB Lamar Jackson is gone and there’s also a new defensive coordinator in Brian VanGorder. Louisville was 11th in the FBS in scoring last season, but that was with Jackson. The defense was in the middle though by allowing 27.4 PPG and it will be again this year as well. Jawon Pass is now the main man under center, he has 238 yards and two TD’s for his career. The run game focuses around Dae Williams and Trey Smith. Alabama averaged 37.1 PPG and it allowed just 11.9. Note that seven different time the Tide would hold an opponent to just single digits. Jalen Hurts had 2,081 yards, 17 TD’s, as well as 855 rushing yards and eight more TD’s. The pick: I think the defending champs control this one on both sides of the ball as the Tide look to roll to another National Championship. This one has “chess match,” written all over it. Play the “under.” |
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09-01-18 | Mets v. Giants OVER 8 | Top | 2-1 | Loss | -100 | 17 h 46 m | Show |
The set-up: This match-up on the mound features two pitchers who have seen better days. I think runs will definitely be plentiful in this one with the Mets sending Stephen Matz to the hill and the home side going with Derek Holland. The pitchers: Matz is so far 5-11 with a 4.36 ERA. He comes in off a strong outing against the Nationals on Sunday, giving up one run off five hits with one walk in what turned out to be a loss. Matz has been more “miss” than “hit” this year though, especially on the road where he’s just 4-5 with a 5.53 ERA. Holland is so far 7-8 with a 3.65 ERA. He most recently gave up one run off three hits in a win over Texas on Sunday. Holland has been sharp of late, but note that he does own a rather pedestrian 4.01 ERA at home. The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but New York has seen the total go “over” the number in seven of its last nine day road National League games in which it’s an underdog in the -105 to -135 range. This number is a little low, play the “over.” |
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09-01-18 | Oregon State v. Ohio State UNDER 64 | Top | 31-77 | Loss | -106 | 111 h 59 m | Show |
The set-up: It’s the Pac-12 and Big Ten on Saturday afternoon. Oregon State was just 1-11 last year, while Ohio State went 12-2. The Buckeyes would go on to beat USC 24-7 in the Cotton Bowl and I believe the tooth-less Beavers will have difficulty moving the sticks this afternoon as well. The teams: Last year Oregon State put up just 20.7 PPG, while allowing 43. QB Jake Luton had 853 yards, four TD’s and four INT’s. Artavis Pierce was the standout on the ground with 323 yards and a TD. The Buckeyes beat Wisconsin in the Big Ten title game and then smoked USC in the Cotton Bowl. Seven starters return to an offense which averaged 41.1 points. The defense was ranked 15th overall, allowing only 19 PPG. QB Dwayne Haskins had 565 yards and four TD’s. The pick: Oregon State hasn’t had a winning season since 2013 and the Beavers are going to have their hands full again in 2018/19. Ohio State will look to control this one while on offense with its devastating ground attack, while also shutting the Beavers down from start to finish. This number is a little high, play the “under.” |
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08-31-18 | Tigers v. Yankees UNDER 8.5 | Top | 5-7 | Loss | -110 | 11 h 37 m | Show |
The set-up: This series features a couple of lop-sided mismatches on the mound and this is one of them. However for a number of different reasons I think runs are going to be at a premium in this one. The visitors hand the ball to Jordan Zimmermann, while the home side goes with Luis Severino. The pitchers: Zimmermann is so far 6-6 with a 4.38 ERA. He most recently gave up one run over six innings, striking out five and picking up a win over the Cubs on Tuesday. For the most part the veteran has been solid this year, especially on the road with a 3-2, 2.34 ERA in all “night” games. Severino is so far 17-6 with a 3.27 ERA. He’s been a bit shaky of late, but overall Severino is enjoying a tremendous season. Note that he’s 9-2 with a tiny 2.73 ERA in “home” games. The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but New York has seen the total go “under” the number in 11 of its last 18 night home games in which it’s a favorite in the -200 to -300 range. This number is a little high, play the “under.” |
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08-29-18 | Tigers v. Royals OVER 8.5 | Top | 2-9 | Win | 104 | 18 h 33 m | Show |
The set-up: This match-up on the mound features two starters who have seen better days. I absolutely think that each will get the hook early, which will ultimately help in pushing this total “over,” sooner rather than later. The visitors go with Mike Fulmer, while the home side goes with Danny Duffy. The pitchers: Fulmer is so far 3-9 with a 4.32 ERA. He looked decent against the tooth-less White Sox in his first start back from the DL last week, but overall it’s been a disappointing season for Fulmer, who is just 2-3 with a terrible 5.51 ERA on the road. Duffy is so far 7-11 with a 4.85 ERA. He most recently gave up two earned runs off six hits with two walks while striking out seven over five innings in a no-decision to the light-hitting Rays on Thursday. It was his first start back from the DL as well. Note that in two starts prior to getting injured he was shelled for 12 earned runs over 10.1 innings in early August. The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but Detroit has seen the total go “over” the number in seven of its last nine road day games in which the line in the contest is set between +125 and -125. This number is a little low, play the “over.” |
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08-28-18 | A's v. Astros OVER 8.5 | Top | 4-3 | Loss | -103 | 10 h 31 m | Show |
The set-up: This series features a couple of interesting match-ups on the mound and this is one of them. For a number of different reasons though, I think this total will sneak “over” before the end. The visitors hand the ball to Edwin Jackson, while the home side goes with Charlie Morton. The pitchers: Jackson is so far 4-3 with a 2.97 ERA. He most recently was shelled for four runs off seven hits over 4.1 innings, striking out two and walking three in a loss to the Rangers on Wednesday. After finishing a poor 5-6 with a 5.21 ERA last year, it would seem as if Jackson is now finally starting to “regress to the norm.” Morton is so far 13-3 with a 3.05 ERA. He most recently gave up two runs off four hits over five innings in a no-decision to these very A’s on Friday. Morton’s been solid across the board, but note that the Astros have seen the total go “over” the number in seven of their last nine night home games in which they’re a favorite in the -150 to -250 range. The pick: I think Jackson’s early sparkling numbers are unsustainable and I believe his latest poor performance is the start of what will end up becoming a massive decline to end the season. Morton has been sharp, but I like the Astros’ dangerous hitting line-up to produce some runs this evening. This number is a little low, play the “over.”
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08-28-18 | Nationals v. Phillies OVER 7 | Top | 5-4 | Win | 100 | 8 h 26 m | Show |
The set-up: This series features a couple of competitive match-ups on the mound and this is one of them. I had a play on the “under” when these two squared off against each other last week in the Phillies’ eventual late inning victory. Clearly these are two of the best in the World going head-to-head, but I think these talented hitting line-ups will produce just enough offense this time around to push the total above this tiny number. The pitchers: Max Scherzer is 16-6 with a 2.13 ERA. He gave up two runs off two hits with four walks while striking out ten over seven innings in the 2-0 loss to Philadelphia last week. Aaron Nola is so far 15-3 with a 2.13 ERA. He went eight scoreless against the Nats and he’s now gone 3-0 while posting 25 strikeouts over his last 21 innings of work. The pick: Clearly it’s impossible to say anything negative about either of these guys. But note that the Phillies have seen the total go “over” the number in eight of their last ten night home games as an underdog in the +100 to +175 range. This number is just a little low, play the “over.” |
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08-28-18 | Blue Jays v. Orioles OVER 9.5 | Top | 5-12 | Win | 105 | 8 h 26 m | Show |
The set-up: This series features a couple of match-ups with relative “no names” going head to head on the mound and this is obviously one of them. I think runs will be plentiful this evening. The visitors go with Thomas Pannone, while the home side goes with Josh Rogers. The pitchers: Pannone is so far 1-0 with a 1.59 ERA. He made three appearances out of the bullpen for his major league debut last week, but he’s been recalled now to make his very first start. Clearly the sky is the limit for Pannone, but I think he’ll take a small step back in this difficult venue. Ramirez was supposed to get the start here, but Baltimore has made a late Tuesday morning change to Josh Rogers, who makes his MLB season debut today. The sky may be the limit for Rogers, but I think he’ll struggle against this difficult and determined opponent. The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but Toronto has seen the total go “over” the number in seven of its last ten night road games in which the line in the contest is set between -150 and +150. I’m banking on these starting pitchers getting chased early and for this total going “over” sooner, rather than later. |
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08-27-18 | A's v. Astros UNDER 8 | Top | 4-11 | Loss | -102 | 19 h 16 m | Show |
The set-up: This series features a couple of of competitive match-ups on the mound and this is one of them. Runs would appear to be at a premium tonight. The visitors hand the ball to Brett Anderson, while the home side goes with Gerritt Cole. The pitchers: Anderson is so far 3-3 with a 3.47 ERA. He most recently went seven shutout innings against the Rangers on Tuesday, giving up a single hit and striking out six. Anderson has now worked back to back shutout seven frame performances and he’s won three of his last four starts overall, posting a tiny 0.68 ERA over 26.2 frames of work this month. Cole is so far 11-5 with a 2.73 ERA. He most recently gave up three runs while striking out seven over five innings in a no-decision to the Mariners on Monday. Note that Cole is a sharp 5-2 with a 2.67 ERA at home. The pick: Take it for what you will, but Houston has now seen the total go “under” the number in eight of its last 12 night home games in which it’s a favorite in the -125 to -200 range. This number is a little high considering how well these starters are performing at the moment, play the “under.”
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08-26-18 | Yankees v. Orioles OVER 8.5 | Top | 5-3 | Loss | -111 | 12 h 59 m | Show |
The set-up: This series features a couple of interesting match-ups on the mound and this is one of them in my opinion. When it’s all said and done though, I look for this total to eclipse the posted number. The visitors hand the ball to Luis Severino, while the home side goes with Dylan Bundy. The teams: Severino is so far 16-6 with a 3.28 ERA. After an almost unstoppable start to the 2018 campaign, he’s come back down to Earth over the last month and a half, but he does enter off a decent start against the punch-less White Sox. Severino has been elite, but note he does possess a rather pedestrian 4.01 ERA on the road. Bundy is so far 7-12 with a 5.31 ERA. The veteran finished 13-9 with a 4.24 ERA last year, but he’s been a complete disaster this season. Especially at home where he is a poor 4-6 with a 5.87 ERA. The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but Baltimore has seen the total go “over” the number in 14 of its last 22 night home games in which it’s an underdog in the +150 to +250 range. This number is a little low, play the “over.” |
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08-26-18 | Cardinals v. Cowboys OVER 40.5 | Top | 27-3 | Loss | -101 | 31 h 30 m | Show |
The set-up: Two teams that find themselves at the opposite ends of the spectrum early collide in Week 3 of the NFLX preseason. The Cards are 2-0 after beating the Saints 20-15 last week, while the Cowboys are 0-2 after falling 21-13 at home to Cincinnati in Week 2. I think Dallas is going to open up the playbook tonight though and with the Cards matching pace, I look for this total to sneak over before the end. The teams: Sam Bradford started for the Cards last week and he went 6 for 6 for 61 yards. Rookie Josh Rosen then went 10 of 16 for 107 yards and a TD. Chad Kanoff took over at the end and he went 5 of 10 for 43 yards. The defense looked sharp, but note that New Orleans’ star QB Drew Brees did not receive a single snap as the veteran wasn’t risked in the meaningless contest. I think Arizona will have a much more difficult time against a first string offense this week. Dak Prescott was 10 of 15 for 88 yards a TD last week for the Cowboys, while Mike White was 8 of 16 for 76 yards. Note that RB Ezekiel Elliot is expected to see some time tonight as well. Clearly the Cowboys would love to get off the schneid with a victory tonight for the home town crowd. The pick: I’m not convinced whatsoever that the Cards are as good as their 2-0 record would indicate and I don’t think the Cowboys are as bad as their 0-2 mark would point to either. But I do think that Dallas puts the foot on the gas from start to finish and with the visitors needing to match pace, expect this total to eclipse the number sooner, rather than later.
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08-26-18 | Phillies v. Blue Jays UNDER 9 | Top | 8-3 | Loss | -100 | 5 h 56 m | Show |
The set-up: This series features a couple of competitive match-ups and this is one of them in my opinion. I think runs are going to be at a premium in this inter-league contest on Sunday. The visitors hand the ball to Vince Velasquez, while the home side goes with Marco Estrada. The teams: Velasquez is so far 8-9 with a 4.06 ERA. While he’s struggled a bit of late, overall the hard-throwing right-hander has been solid overall this year, especially on the road where he owns a sharp 2.77 ERA to this point. Estrada is so far 7-9 with a 4.88 ERA. He comes in off back-to-back decent outings and note that he’s been at his best in all “day” games this season with a 2-2, 3.11 ERA. The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but the Blue Jays have seen the total go “under” the number in eight of their last 11 day home games in which the line in the contest is set between -150 and +150. This number is too high, play the “under.” |
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08-25-18 | Pirates v. Brewers UNDER 8.5 | Top | 9-1 | Loss | -105 | 20 h 44 m | Show |
The set-up: This series features a couple of competitive match-ups on the mound and this is definitely one of them. Runs are going to be at a premium tonight in my opinion. The visitors hand the ball to Jameson Taillon, while the home side goes with Jhoulys Chacin. The pitchers: Taillon is so far 9-9 with a 3.58 ERA. He most recently gave up one run off five hits while striking out eight over six innings in a victory over the Cubs on Sunday. Taillon hasn’t been perfect, but he’s been very consistent, especially on the road with a solid 3.18 ERA. Chacin is so far 13-4 with a 3.58 ERA. He most recently gave up four hits and no walks while striking out three over six scoreless in a victory over St. Louis on Sunday. Chacin has won five of his last six trips to the hill and he ranks third in the NL with 13 victories. The pick: I think Taillon and Chacin will battle deep into this game and as such, I’m playing the “under.”
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08-25-18 | Red Sox v. Rays OVER 8.5 | Top | 1-5 | Loss | -100 | 8 h 52 m | Show |
The set-up: This series features a couple of competitive match-ups on the mound and this is one of them. For a number of different reasons though, I’m expecting this total to sneak over the number by the end of the game. The visitors hand the ball to Rick Porcello, while the home side goes with Ryan Yarbrough. The pitchers: Porcello is so far 15-6 with a 4.14 ERA. He most recently comes in off a poor outing against the Indians and while’s been strong overall this season, note that he still owns a rather pedestrian 4.91 ERA in all “night” games. Yarbrough is so far 12-5 with a 3.84 ERA. He has been “hit or miss” over the last month though and while the rookie has clearly exceeded expectations to this point, I’ll point out that he still owns a rather “ho hum” 4.14 ERA at home. The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but Boston has seen the total go “over” the number in seven of its last nine as night road favorite in the -125 to -200 range, while Tampa has seen the total go “over” in ten of its last 17 night home games as an underdog in the +125 to +200 range. This number is low, play the “over.” |
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08-25-18 | Titans v. Steelers UNDER 44 | Top | 6-16 | Win | 100 | 17 h 38 m | Show |
The set-up: Tennessee enters off a 30-14 home loss to Tampa Bay, while Pittsburgh comes in off a humbling 51-34 road loss in Green Bay. Both teams looked horrible defensively last week and despite each side starting most of their main offensive players today, I think we’re going to see a lower-scoring “under” once it’s all said and done. The teams: The Titans will be eager to reverse their fortunes in the all important Week 3 contest, as they’re so far 0-2 in the pre-season. QB Marcus Mariota has been solid in his limited time by going 4 of 7 for 80 yards and TD, while backup Blaine Gabbert has 116 passing yards and one TD. With the first team defense on the field today, I’m expecting a much more concerted effort on that side of the ball this week (and that goes for both teams.) Steelers’ backup QB Mason Rudolph was 5 of 11 for 47 yards, one TD and one INT last week. WR James Washington had four catches for 92 yards. RB James Conner was a standout as well with 57 yards on five carries. Clearly the defense was a disaster, but as mentioned off the top, I’m expecting a much better effort overall from this talented first team Steeler defensive unit. The pick: Two teams hungry for a win and off an embarrassing blowout loss from the week before? I love the under here.
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08-24-18 | Indians v. Royals UNDER 9 | Top | 4-5 | Push | 0 | 12 h 39 m | Show |
The set-up: This series features a couple of competitive match-ups on the mound and this is definitely one of them. I believe runs will be at a premium in this one. The visitors hand the ball to Mike Clevinger, while the home side goes with Brad Keller. The pitchers: Clevinger is so far 9-7 with a 3.25 ERA. He comes in off a gem against the Orioles on Sunday, allowing no runs off seven hits with seven strikeouts over six innings in the victory. So far Clevinger has 155 strikeouts over 157.2 frames of work. Also note that he owns a sharp 2.75 ERA on the road this season. Keller is so far 6-5 with a 3.32 ERA. He comes in off back-to-back strong starts and note that the rookie has been at his best at home with the 3-1, 3.20 ERA to this point. The pick: Neither of these guys is running out of gas, in fact each looks as if they’re getting stronger as the season is wearing on. I find absolutely no reason whatsoever not to believe that these two can’t carry that momentum over again here. This number is a little high, play the “under.” |
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08-23-18 | Reds v. Cubs OVER 9 | Top | 1-7 | Loss | -111 | 10 h 46 m | Show |
The set-up: This National League contest has “slug-fest” written all over in my opinion. The visitors go with Anthony DeSclafani on the mound, while the home side goes with Cole Hamels. The pitchers: DeSclafani is so far 6-3 with a 4.12 ERA. He’s been better of late, but note that he’s still a pedestrian 2-3 with a 4.62 ERA in all “night” games this year. Hamels is so far 8-9 with a 4.00 ERA. Hamels enters off his first shaky start for his new team, but overall the veteran has been sharp since coming over from the Rangers. Hamels has been anything but a “safe-bet” in all “home” situations this year though, coming in with a terrible 1-7, 6.01 ERA in all such instances. The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but the Reds have seen the total go “over” the number in 13 of their last 21 road games as an underdog in the -150 to -200 range. I think that it’s very possible that Hamels’ early shiny numbers for Chicago are completely unsustainable. I’m also not confident that DeSclafani has “turned any corners” quite yet either. Look for this one to sneak “over” as it comes down the stretch. |
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08-23-18 | Phillies v. Nationals UNDER 7 | Top | 2-0 | Win | 100 | 19 h 35 m | Show |
The set-up: This series features a couple of competitive match-ups on the mound and there’s no question that this is one of them. Runs would appear to be at a premium this afternoon with these two “studs” going head-to-head. The visitors hand the ball to ace Aaron Nola, while the home side goes with ace Max Scherzer. The pitchers: Nola is so far 14-3 with a 2.24 ERA. He most recently gave up one run off three hits with one walk while striking out 11 over seven innings in a victory over New York on Friday. He’s been red hot since Day 1 and there’s no reason not to think that he won’t come in razor focused here as well. Note that he owns a tiny 0.98 WHIP and has a 160:44 K/BB over 161 frames of work. Scherzer is so far 16-5 with a 2.11 ERA. He most recently went six scoreless against the Fish on Friday. That’s back-to-back scoreless outings for Scherzer, who owns a minuscule 0.89 WHIP and a monstrous 234 strikeouts over 174.2 frames of work. The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but Philadelphia has seen the total go “under” the number in 12 of its last 20 day road games as an underdog in the -125 to -200 range. This number is a little high, play the “under.” |
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08-22-18 | Phillies v. Nationals UNDER 8.5 | Top | 7-8 | Loss | -105 | 21 h 44 m | Show |
The set-up: This series features a couple of competitive match-ups on the mound and this is definitely one of them. Everything points to a runs being at a premium tonight. The visitors hand the ball to Zach Eflin, while the home side goes with Stephen Strasburg. The pitchers: Eflin is so far 9-4 with a 3.70 ERA. He returns to the big league’s after a stint with Triple-A Lehigh Valley. In his last start in the Majors on Aug. 16th he earned a win over the Mets despite allowing four runs over seven frames of work. Note though that he owns a sharp 7-3, 3.66 ERA in all “night” games. Strasburg is so far 6-7 with a 3.90 ERA. Strasburg returns to the starting rotation refreshed after a month off due to a neck issue. He threw a 70 pitch simulated game late last week and he’s been cleared to go here. The pick: Strasburg has the track record to get back on track and that’s what I expect to see after some time off to re-focus. Eflin has been sharp in this position all season as well and I expect the hard-throwing right-hander to carry that momentum over into this one. This number is a little high, play the “under.” |
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08-22-18 | Reds v. Brewers OVER 9 | Top | 0-4 | Loss | -100 | 16 h 50 m | Show |
The pitchers: Stephenson is so far 0-1 with a 7.94 ERA. Stephenson has always looked sharp in Triple-A, but that success has so far not translated over into the big leagues. He was 5-6 with a 4.68 ERA last season, including just 1-3 with a 6.19 ERA on the road. Peralta is so far 5-4 with a 4.48 ERA. Not surprisingly the rookie has been “hit or miss” this year, showing great strike-out potential, but also displaying shaky command with a lot of walks. Note that Peralta is just 1-3 with a 5.40 ERA in all “day” games too. The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but Milwaukee has seen the total go “over” the number in 11 of its last 17 day home games in which its a favorite in the -125 to -200 range. This number is a little low, play the “over.” |
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08-21-18 | Giants v. Mets OVER 8 | Top | 3-6 | Win | 100 | 3 h 33 m | Show |
The set-up: I have zero faith in either starter and I look for this total to fly “over” sooner, rather than later. The visitors go with Chris Stratton, while the home side goes with Steven Matz. The pitchers: Stratton is so far 8-7 with a 5.52 ERA. He returns from Triple-A out of necessity. For the most part he’s been terrible this season in the big leagues, especially at home with a 6.09 ERA. Matz is so far 5-10 with a 4.60 ERA. He makes his second start back from injury at home, a place where he’s gone a poor 1-5 with a 4.78 ERA. The pick: This match-up definitely does not have “pitchers duel” written all over it. It’s the exact opposite in fact. There’s no reason to have any faith in any either of these guys, and I don’t. I expect each to get the hook early and for this one to fly “over” once it’s all said and done. |
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08-21-18 | Phillies v. Nationals OVER 8.5 | Top | 4-10 | Win | 100 | 23 h 28 m | Show |
The set-up: This series features some competitive match-ups on the mound, and this is one of them. However, i think we’ll see just enough offense to push this one “over” the number once it’s all said and done. The visitors hand the ball to Vince Velasquez, while the home side goes with Tanner Roark. The pitchers: Velasquez is so far 8-9 with a 4.13 ERA. He comes in off back-to-back shaky outings and while he has thrown better on the road than at home, I think the right-hander is running out of gas as the season comes down the stretch. Roark is so far 8-12 with a 4.13 ERA. He most recently gave up two runs over seven innings in a victory over the Cubs on Thursday. Roark has been solid over the last the last month, but I’ll caution that he’s still just 4-6 with a 5.20 ERA at home. The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but Philadelphia has seen the total go “over” the number in seven of its last ten road night games when the line in the contest is set between -150 and +150. I think Velasquez continues to slide and I believe Roark will take a step back. Play the “over.” |
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08-21-18 | Orioles v. Blue Jays OVER 9 | Top | 2-8 | Win | 100 | 23 h 27 m | Show |
The set-up: This match-up has “slug-fest” written all over it. The Orioles go with Dylan Bundy, while the Jays hand the ball to Sam Gaviglio. The pitchers: Bundy is so far 7-11 with a 4.99 ERA. He most recently was shelled for eight runs over five innings. He gave up eight hits, including two home runs. In four of his last six trips to the hill he’s allowed at least five earned runs while posting a terrible 7.71 ERA in that stretch. Gaviglio is so far 2-6 with a 5.13 ERA. He most recently was rocked for five runs off eight hits over 4.1 innings in a loss to the lowly Royals on Tuesday. Over his last eight starts Gaviglio has posted an atrocious 7.07 ERA and 1.77 WHIP. The pick: Bundy’s form suggests he’s in line for another “long night,” while Gaviglio has regressed as the season has worn on. Expect these trends to continue and for this one to fly “over” sooner, rather than later. |
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08-19-18 | Mets v. Phillies OVER 9 | Top | 8-2 | Win | 100 | 18 h 36 m | Show |
The set-up: This Sunday night contest features a couple of pitchers who have been inconsistent this season. This one has “slug-fest” written all over it. The visitors go with Jason Vargas, while the home side goes with Nick Pivetta. The pitchers: Vargas is so far 2-8 with an 8.10 ERA. Last year the veteran was 18-11 with a 4.16 ERA for Kansas City. He’s failed to resemble that form whatsoever this season though and note that he’s been particularly terrible on the road with a 1-4, 8.91 ERA record in such instances. Pivetta is so far 7-9 with a 4.37 ERA. He most recently gave up one run over six innings in a no-decision to the Red Sox on Tuesday. Pivetta has admittedly looked a lot better of late, but note that he’s still just 4-6 with a 4.98 ERA in all “night” games this year. The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but New York has seen the total fly “over” the number in 12 of its last 20 road night games in which it’s an underdog in the +125 to +200 range. This number is a little low, play the “over.” |
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08-18-18 | Astros v. A's UNDER 8 | Top | 1-7 | Push | 0 | 18 h 3 m | Show |
The set-up: This series features a couple of competitive match-ups on the mound and this is definitely one of them in my opinion. The visitors hand the ball to Dallas Keuchel, while the home side goes with Trevor Cahill. The pitchers: Keuchel is so far 9-9 with a 3.43 ERA. He hasn’t been perfect this year, but since the start of July he’s almost resembled the dominant figure on the mound he was about two years ago. Note though that Keuchel has been at his best on the road this season with the respectable 6-4, 3.00 ERA record to this point. Cahill is so far 4-2 with a 3.39 ERA. He most recently gave up four runs off seven hits with three strikeouts in a no-decision to the Angels on Sunday. It wasn’t a great start, but overall the veteran has been solid, posting a 1.10 WHIP over 79.2 frames of work. Note as well that Cahill is 3-0 with 0.99 ERA at home this season. The pick: With these two studs facing off on Saturday afternoon, runs would definitely appear to be at a premium. Play the “under.” |
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08-17-18 | Mets v. Phillies UNDER 7 | Top | 2-4 | Win | 103 | 22 h 31 m | Show |
The set-up: This series features a couple of very competitive match-ups on the mound and there’s no question that this is one of them. The visitors go with Noah Syndergaard on the hill, while the home side goes with Aaron Nola. The pitchers: Syndergaard is so far 8-2 with a 3.22 ERA. He most recently gave up four runs off six hits with one walk while striking out six over six innings in a win over the Reds on Monday. In his second start since returning from the DL he earned the victory and to go along with his respectable ERA he also owns a sharp 1.22 WHIP and 93 strikeouts over 88 frames of work. Nola is so far 13-3 with a 2.28 ERA. He most recently comes in off back-to-back strong outings. Nola is putting together the finest campaign of his career and he’s been unbeatable at home so far by going 8-0 with a 2.07 ERA. The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but Philadelphia has seen the total go “under” the number in ten of its last 13 home games when the line is set between +150 and -150. This number is just a little high, play the “under.” |
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08-16-18 | Rays v. Yankees UNDER 8 | Top | 3-1 | Win | 100 | 15 h 30 m | Show |
The setup: This series features a couple of interesting matchups on the mound and this is definitely one of them in my opinion. All signs point to a classic “duel” and that runs will be at an extreme premium. The visitors go with ace Blake Snell, while the Yankees go with formerace Masahiro Tanaka. The teams: Snell is so far 135 with a 2.18 ERA. Snell returned tom the tenday DL and looked sharp in a victory over the Jays last Friday. Snell will be given the green light here and have the leash taken off in the Big Apple, note that he’s a very respectable 42 with a 2.93 ERA in all “day” games. Tanaka is so far 93 with a 4.08 ERA. Tanaka comes in off a couple of strong outings and his 1.07 WHIP and 109 strikeouts over 103 innings of work suggest he’ll be able to finish the regular season on a high. Note that he’s 20 with a 3.80 ERA in all “day” games this season. The pick: Snell’s been better overall than Tanaka this year, but the home side hurler catches a break in this one facing the Rays’ anemic lineup. I’m expecting these two starters to go deep into the latter innings and for this one to to fall “under” at the end of the night. |
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08-15-18 | Pirates v. Twins OVER 8 | Top | 4-6 | Win | 100 | 6 h 5 m | Show |
The set-up: This inter-league series features a couple of interesting match-ups on the mound and this is definitely one of them in my opinion. For a number of different reasons though, I expect these starters to get chased early and I look for this total to sneak “over” the number sooner rather than later. The visitors hand the ball to Chris Archer, while the home side goes with Jose Berrios. The pitchers: Archer is so far 4-5 with a 4.36 ERA. Archer has looked shaky since coming over from the Rays, looking decent in one start and poor in the other. Note that he’s just 4-5 with a 4.35 ERA on the road this season. Berrios is so far 11-8 with a 3.66 ERA. He most recently gave up four runs off four hits with six walks while striking out five over four innings in a no-decision to the Tribe on Thursday. Berrios for the most part has been solid this season, but this latest effort was a step back for sure. The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but Pittsburgh has seen the total go “over” the number in nine of its last 14 road day games in which its an underdog in the -125 to -175 range. I think Archer’s inconsistencies come back to haunt him here, while I also believe Berrios continues to slide after his recent shaky performance. Play the “over.” |
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08-14-18 | Rockies v. Astros UNDER 7.5 | Top | 5-1 | Win | 100 | 23 h 42 m | Show |
The set-up: This series features a couple of competitive match-ups on the mound and this is one of them in my opinion. For a number of different reasons I think that runs will be at a premium in this one. The visitors go with German Marquez on the mound, while the home side goes with Justin Verlander. The pitchers: Marquez is so far 9-9 with a 4.69 ERA. He most recently struck out nine and walked two in a no-decision to Milwaukee on Tuesday, ultimately giving up two runs over seven innings. Over 122.2 frames of work, Marquez sports a sharp 129:43 K/BB and note that he’s 5-3 with a 3.09 ERA on the road to this point as well. Verlander is so far 11-7 with a 2.50 ERA. He most recently gave up one run off four hits and a walk while striking out 14 over eight innings in a victory over the Dodgers on Friday. It was Verlander’s third straight start and his fifth in his last six in which he’s given up two or fewer runs. The pick: Coors Field is a difficult venue to throw in and like most, Marquez has had his difficulties there. However he’s been much better on the road and I think he carries over his momentum from his last start. And there’s also no reason not to think that Verlander won’t be focused here as well in this interesting inter-league match-up. This number is a little high, play the “under.” |
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08-14-18 | Red Sox v. Phillies UNDER 9 | Top | 2-1 | Win | 100 | 22 h 37 m | Show |
The set-up: This inter-league series features a couple of very interesting match-ups on the mound, and this is definitely one of them in my opinion. For a number of different reasons, I think that runs will be at a premium this evening. The visitors go with Rick Porcello, while the home side goes with Nick Pivetta. The pitchers: Porcello is so far 14-5 with a 4.17 ERA. He most recently gave up one run off one hit while striking out nine over nine innings in a victory over the hard-hitting Yankees on Friday. Note that Porcello has been much better on the road (8-2, 3.81) than at home (6-3, 4.57) as well. Pivetta is so far 7-9 with a 4.51 ERA. He most recently went six shutout innings in a victory over the hard-hitting Diamondbacks on Tuesday. The hard-throwing right-hander has now thrown back-to-back quality outings and note that he owns an impressive 11.1 K/9 to this point as well. The pick: These starting pitchers come in on top form. There’s no reason not to think that they can’t carry that recent momentum over here and that’s exactly what I’m expecting. This number is a little high, play the “under.” |
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