Doc’s Sports Blog Doc’s Sports Blog

Contributed by Robert Ferringo

The rumor mill in the NBA is churning at rapid speeds as of late. Especially given that we haven’t even cracked The Wishbone yet.

Many GM’s around the league are trying to make up for injuries, attitudes, and losses. Al Harrington is a name that has come up a lot lately in trade talks. The New York Knicks are a team that was said to be interested but a third party would have to be involved as the Knicks and the Warriors cannot make contracts match up by themselves. Harrington-to-the Knicks seems like something the “old” team would do, so Knicks fans don’t get too excited. I don’t see this one happening.

Keeping with the Knicks, it looks like they have found some possible suitors for Eddie Curry. The Spurs and the Heat have both expressed interest in the injured big man with the large contract. One rumor out of Miami is that Shawn Marion may be involved. But just like the former, contracts can and will be the snag to this deal. To make a long story short, a third party will have to be involved for the Knicks to move Curry.

News coming from the Charlotte Bobcats camp is that they are looking to make a move for the LA Clippers center Chirs Kaman. That could bolster the Bobcats interior game and would do wonders for his self esteem. Can you imagine what this guy must go through walking the streets of Los Angeles? I mean, just look at this guy. This is not the trendy-Rodeo Drive-looking-star that Beverly Hills is used to and, frankly, he makes me queasy if I look at that pic for more than 15 seconds.

The Cleveland Cavaliers may make a run at Antonio McDyess before the Pistons can get him back on December 7th. It is required that a team waits 30 days after a trade in which a player is traded away, and released, to pick him back up. McDyess wants to be on a championship-caliber team and the next few weeks could be huge for the Cavaliers. Detroit is embarking on a difficult West Coast trip that could help Cleveland widen their half-game lead on the second place Pistons. If they can make a run in the standings, McDyess might be a hidden gem for this Eastern Conference contender.

The Toronto Raptors are looking to add some perimeter scoring help. The big guys inside for Toronto (Bosh, O’Neal, Bargnani) are doing a great job holding down the fort in the paint, but on the perimeter they have been outscored 143-84 in their last three games. Al Harrington and Gerald Wallace are two names that have come up, and both would immediately make Toronto a legit Eastern Conference contender. Harrington has a more appealing contract but Wallace’s game would be a better fit. Stay tuned.

Contributed by Indian Cowboy

NFL

Cleveland vs. Buffalo

The line opened up here at -5.5 and that is where it currently resides. The total opened up at 42 and it sits at 40. Cleveland is 3-6 and they have obviously packed it in for the season as they have decided to go ahead and start Brady Quinn to give him some reps and possibly look into the future. Now, having said this, do note that Denver is obviously no fluke and the job they did at Cleveland as they went on the road to defeat Atlanta and give the Falcons their first loss of the season. Thus, it only puts up the effort that Cleveland did at home in a better light. Remember, there is chance of inclement weather in this game, and even a 50 percent chance of snow. I am not sure if the public knows this because they are riding the over to a tune of 2:1 here and yet the total has dropped here a couple of points. The bottom line here for me is I lean on Buffalo given that they are coming off three straight losses and of course still in the hunt for the playoffs albeit a bit fading, and a lean on the under. In fact, my comp pick will be on the under.

NBA

Houston vs. Oklahoma City

Houston comes off a big win over New Orleans at home. But, as I’ve been reporting for a time, I don’t trust the Hornets one bit this season. The lines are not favored towards them, Vegas has caught on and this team has lost a great deal of value. As remember, the Hornets are simply not making the cut this year winning the games or even being in competitive in some of the games they were in the past. Oklahoma City on the other hand, comes off an absolute embarrassment at Philly. This team comes home to be an 8.5 dog here. Note, that the total for this game has come down about 3 points and the spread has come down about a 0.5 point. Regardless of the fact that I do lean slightly on Oklahoma City as I’m a sucker for dogs, I simply can’t wager on this team simply because of their lack of play for a full 48 mins. Yet, I wouldn’t be surprised to see them cover here.

Utah vs. Phoenix

I have a play on this game today.

Spurs vs. Clippers

Be careful in this game. There is a reason why the Clips are favored. They come off an embarrassing loss at home to their once star Maggatte and this team typically responds well to blowout losses. See their win against the Mavs for example. I know this team is 1-8 but I am staying away. Remember, the Spurs are coming off back to back games as well. No thanks, I want no part of this game as this will be a tight game similar to the Kings game for the Spurs and can go either way as after all, this team doesn’t have the offense to blowout anyone at this point. Lean on the Clippers to get it done, but no play.

Monday’s Comp Selection
Take Bills/Browns Under 40.5

The line opened up here at -5.5 and that is where it currently resides. The total opened up at 42 and it sits at 40. Cleveland is 3-6 and they have obviously packed it in for the season as they have decided to go ahead and start Quinn to give him some reps and possibly look into the future. Now, having said this, do note that Denver is obviously no fluke and the job they did at Cleveland as they went on the road to defeat Atlanta and give the Falcons their first loss of the season. Thus, it only puts up the effort that Cleveland did at home in a better light. Remember, there is chance of inclement weather in this game, and even a 50% chance of snow. I am not sure if the public knows this because they are riding the over to a tune of 2:1 here and yet the total has dropped here a couple of points. The bottom line here for me is I lean on Buffalo given that they are coming off 3 straight losses and of course still in the hunt for the playoffs albeit a bit fading, and a lean on the under. In fact, my comp pick will be on the under.

Contributed by Strike Point Sports

So let’s get this straight: there is a college basketball game of significance starting at midnight on Monday? Is it just me or is this quite possibly the most absurd and completely stunt-driven thought in sports?

I mean, its all fine and dandy to host the first practice of the season this late. You know, have a nice little shootout around, a dunk contest and put on a solid scrimmage and show for students who might as well be high or drunk or both. But to host a regular season college basketball game that won’t get over until nearly 2 AM EST is just ridiculous. Don’t get me wrong, I’ll be watching this game like any other true fan, however this is one the NCAA clearly over thought and failed to take in consideration anyone but themselves when putting this random stunt together.

Massachusetts at Memphis (-15), Midnight, Monday, Nov. 17
Now let’s take a look at this match-up. The defending national runners-up are a tricky team to dissect. Gone are Derrick Rose and Joey Dorsey. Swingman Antonio Anderson and duel threat Robert Dozier lead the charge in ’08. Willie Kemp and Doneal Mack can flat out shoot the three ball, not to mention the dynamic frosh Tyreke Evans and his freakish set of skills.

Evans, a 6’6’’ first-year wonder, dropped 19 points along with five rebounds and three assists in his debut against Fairfield. His versatile game reminds me a lot of a young Dwayne Wade for Marquette or even Brandon Roy. He can run the point but also has the size to make things happen by slashing and attacking the rim. He is just one freshman I can really excited to see all this season, and Evans could be atop that list with guys like Demar DeRozan of USC, Al-Farouq Aminu of Wake Forest and Samardo Samuels of Louisville.

Here’s a quick cut of Evans in action:

UMass is no push over, but I think Memphis is too quick and a lot better of a shooting team than most think. However, like I mentioned before, with this game starting so late, who knows how either side will come out or hold up. I’d say this is one to stay away from. Look for this game to be played in the high 70s or low 80s, but as far as a side wager is concerned, be weary.

Contributed by Indian Cowboy

IC RESEARCH REPORT:

Wednesday College Football

Temple vs. Kent State

I have a play on this game, it is my POD.

Central Michigan vs. Northern Illinois

You can make a case for either of these teams. On one end, you have a 7-2 team in Central Michigan that has been the traditional powerhouse over the years in this conference. Dan Lefevour has thrown for more than twice the yards as Northern Illinois leading passer and he has thrown for twice as many touchdowns going for 11 td’s and just 3 interceptions. Central Michigan comes off 5 straight wins and nearly beat Purdue on the road. Northern Illinois is undefeated at home of course and come off an ugly loss to Ball State on the road and will be fired up at home after such an ugly loss in front of their fans as they lost to this team 10-35 on the road last year. The total has come down from 50 to 49 in this game as it is a conference game and the temperature is expected to be below 40 degrees. Look, I know the numbers state how this game is likely to go over, but I like the under here as I’ve always believed conference games such as this can typically lead to unders. Although it is not enough for me to make a play, games in Northern Illinois in this rivalry have gone under in the past such as the previous two times. The under is 7-1 for the Huskies when facing a team with a winning record meaning that they show up defensively against the better teams in the league.

Wednesday NBA Action

NBA Recap from Yesterday

How about the Twolves covering the 5 to 6 point chalk on the road yesterday b/c of a 37-25 third quarter. I remember at one point in the third they were down by 12 and manage to come back to lead. Charlotte continues to show that they can’t win games against the better teams by failing to close out the Nuggets despite having a nice lead to start off with. They just continue to have those scoring lags which just kills this team. The game goes well under. The Bucks make a spirited effort at Cleveland and easily cover while the game goes expected dog/over. Utah comes from 4 points down in the 4th to beat Philly by 13 b/c of a 30-13 4th quarter. That game went well under. My Hawks are still undefeated at 6-0 and the game goes well over at Chicago with the 187 total. Lakers remain undefeated as they defeat the Mavs and the game goes over as well. Spurs finally win a game at home and manage to cover as they win by 12 over the Knicks and the game goes well under. I have no idea how the Pistons managed to cover against the Kings but did so as the game went under in a game that the Kings should have frankly won outright.

Philly vs. Toronto

Philly had a horrible effort at home against Utah. They were down big and then came back only to give it all back up to the Jazz. They hit the road to go to Toronto. Line opened up at -5 and total has gone down a point. The public is all over the Raptors to a tune of 71%. This is a revenge game for Philly from their season opening loss to the Raptors. Raps come off a loss at Boston though. Thus, both teams come off a loss. I think the Sixers put forth a solid effort today. Lean on Sixers.

Atlanta vs. Boston

This is a big revenge game for Atlanta. Remember, these two teams met in the first round of the playoffs last year. The Hawks took the Celtics to 7 games that not even the Lakers were able to accomplish. Although the Hawks were 3-0 against the C’s at home in the playoffs, they have a sour taste in their mouth from game 7. The Hawks lost that game decisively 99-65. Both of these teams are defensive teams and typically play unders. I know it’s easy to lean on the undefeated Hawks here plus the points, but remember, the Celtics have a way of blowing good teams out at home. Plus, whenever you see the majority of the public on a dog, it is good reason to stay away as well. I’m likely just staying away from this game. Josh Smith is still out for this game.

Indiana vs. New Jersey

Dunleavy is still out for this team. Murphy is listed as doubtful and Harris is listed as doubtful. This is a revenge game for New Jersey. Indiana beat this team by 18 at home just a week ago. This is a game that New Jersey can win outright - remember, they beat the Pistons outright at home. This game likely goes over as well as the Nets come off back to back road losses. The Pacers also have been playing solid overs on the road. Pacers have yet to play an under on the road this year. I just don’t know if I trust the Nets to keep scoring for 4 quarters to take the over, but that is my lean here.

New York vs. Memphis

New York is one of those teams you just don’t know what to expect from. They lost the cover and the game to the Spurs yesterday. They are in Memphis today playing a good Grizzlies team that fell just short to the Suns. I lean slightly on the Grizz here at home but this is a rat race that could go either way. Remember, the Griz have yet to lose back to back covers this year. Yet, I don’t want to go against NY coming off a loss. If you think NY will be competitive here, lean on the over, if you think Memphis does well here, lean on the under.

San Antonio vs. Milwaukee

This could be a tough game for the Spurs. They are having trouble winning with Parker and now without him, they might find it tough on the road. Although, they did beat the Knicks at home and covered yesterday. The Bucks are playing better and better as they nearly beat the Cavs on the road without Redd. No line has been released on this game, but I expect the Bucks to be about a 3.5 dog or so. Whatever the line is, lean on the under as the Spurs are having trouble scoring without Parker.

Lakers vs. New Orleans

I have a play on this game.  It is my only NBA Play for Wednesday.

Orlando vs. Oklahoma City

Over 70% back the Magic here on the road despite the fact they have yet to win on the road and just 1 game above .500. Heck, the Thunder nearly beat the Hawks at home, who is to say they can’t cause a little ruckus against the Magic at home. Heck, Oklahoma City has covered 3 straight but I hate betting against the Magic coming off a loss. I would also lean on the over as I expect Oklahoma City to play well today, but I can’t as the Thunder are typically an under team. This game is a wash for me all the way around.

Utah vs. Washington

How bad are the Wizards eh? Okur is still out but Williams continues to be probable as he did play yesterday against the Sixers with effectiveness. I think Harpring is still out but the Jazz have plenty of depth to combat any injury. There is no line released yet. But, the Wizards are winless. One would think the get fired up for this game having had some rest while the Jazz are on back to backs. I’m likely just staying away from this game entirely although I lean on the over as I think the Wizards finally show up on offense for this game.

Portland vs. Miami

There is no line listed for this game but Portland can play folks. People don’t realize that they have some depth behind Fernandez and terrific guard play. This is a game that Portland can win outright just like they beat the Magic on the road. Miami better show up with their A game early as they were fortunate to defeat the Nets as they came back late in that game. Although no line has been released, I expect this game to likely go over.

Sacramento vs. Clippers

I was a bit surprised to see this line. I understand that Martin is injured and is not playing this game. But, he didn’t play yesterday either and that was a game that the Kings should have won outright but somehow failed to cover. I understand that the Clippers beat the Mavs easily at home, but that is because they got up for that game. How do they get up for this game? I mean should a 1-6 team be favored by 7 points? Outside of the Twolves game at the beginning of the season, the Kings have failed to cover every road game. Having said that, I still don’t have enough faith in them on the road to make a play, but I think this is a spread that they can hang in there with and who knows, this is a game they could possibly win outright coming off a bounce-back from yesterday’s loss to the Pistons.

Houston vs. Phoenix

Houston got spanked in their last game against the Lakers. Let’s face it, they were embarrassed and have had some time to think about it. In fact, this would explain the line going backwards. Battier is listed questionable for this game. Remember, Phoenix struggled against the Hornets at home who is a very similar team to the Rockets. Man, I tell you what, I really want to take the Rockets here and frankly I think the only play here is the Rockets ML or you stay away from this game. But, the Suns have yet to lose back to back covers so far. But, I think the Rockets put forth a spirited effort today and likely win this game outright after the embarrassment at L.A.

College Basketball Wednesday

College Basketball Recap Yesterday

Houston bounced back nicely with a win over Presbyterian as they covered the 13 point spread by winning by 19. Northeastern defeated Indiana-Purdue as well covering their -6.5 spread. Duke absolutely demolished Ga Southern and easily covered the 28 point spread as they covered it by 15 points.

Weber State vs. Miami of Ohio

I have a play on this game. It is my only College Basketball play today and first College Basketball play on the season for me.

Prairie View vs. UCLA

This is such a rat race. I have no idea how someone can cap such a game. But, having said that, UCLA has a tendency to cover spreads no matter how large they are in the beginning of the season as it seems people always seem to know what the “number” when UCLA is playing. It’s almost as if they compete against themselves to beat that number.

College Football Comp Play:

Central Michigan/Northern Illinois Under 50

You can make a case for either of these teams. On one end, you have a 7-2 team in Central Michigan that has been the traditional powerhouse over the years in this conference. Dan Lefevour has thrown for more than twice the yards as Northern Illinois leading passer and he has thrown for twice as many touchdowns going for 11 td’s and just 3 interceptions. Central Michigan comes off 5 straight wins and nearly beat Purdue on the road. Northern Illinois is undefeated at home of course and come off an ugly loss to Ball State on the road and will be fired up at home after such an ugly loss in front of their fans as they lost to this team 10-35 on the road last year. The total has come down from 50 to 49 in this game as it is a conference game and the temperature is expected to be below 40 degrees. Look, I know the numbers state how this game is likely to go over, but I like the under here as I’ve always believed conference games such as this can typically lead to unders. Although it is not enough for me to make a play, games in Northern Illinois in this rivalry have gone under in the past such as the previous two times. The under is 7-1 for the Huskies when facing a team with a winning record meaning that they show up defensively against the better teams in the league.

NBA Comp Play

Houston Rockets +3.5

Houston got spanked in their last game against the Lakers. Let’s face it, they were embarrassed and have had some time to think about it. In fact, this would explain the line going backwards. Battier is listed questionable for this game. Remember, Phoenix struggled against the Hornets at home who is a very similar team to the Rockets. Man, I tell you what, I really want to take the Rockets here and frankly I think the only play here is the Rockets ML or you stay away from this game. But, the Suns have yet to lose back to back covers so far. But, I think the Rockets put forth a spirited effort today and likely win this game outright after the embarrassment at L.A. Bottom line, I think Houston comes back strong after a terrible performance and this is why the line is as low as it is. Rockets likel win this baby outright in my opinion.

IC RESEARCH REPORT:

Tuesday College Football

Ball State vs. Miami of Ohio

Ball State is being tossed around for the BCS now and it always amuses me how quickly a team’s name will get tossed around into the BCS conversation. But, considering there are only a certain number of games in a football season, this shouldn’t be all too surprising. You know, the line for this game opened up at -15.5 and quickly has shot up to -19.5. By nature, this makes me want to take the dog just for the hell of it. Miami of Ohio’s QB Belton is out and backup Raudabaugh is named as the starter for tonight’s game. The moneyline is just as amusing to me as the ML on Ball State is -1000 and the ML on Miami of Ohio is +740. Nearly 70% of the public is on the visiting Ball State. But, that hasn’t prevented this team from covering a slew of games leading up to this game. Note, that Raudabaugh actually has about twice as many passing yards as Belton so that injury is not the greatest harm to this team. Miami of Ohio beat this team 14-13 last year on the road as 4 point dogs so Ball State has a huge revenge angle today as they face them on the road now. Of course, Ball State is undefeated and 7-1 ATS this year as this year they are the ATS Cinderella. To be frank, I just think this is such a crap shoot game. If you want my lean, it will be with the dog here b/c the public is hovering over this game, but having said that, Miami of Ohio lost to Temple at home by 18, they lost to Vandy at home by 21, one of their two wins this year comes against a Division II opponent and Ball State has revenge. If you lean on Miami of Ohio, I would take the over and if you lean on Ball State, I would take the under this game. As per me, I would much rather wager something on the NBA today.

Tuesday NBA Action

Atlanta vs. Chicago

So, my Hawks are undefeated. They are 5-0 and that is huge in the Eastern Conference when many teams will be hovering around .500. Heck, my Hawks are #1 in the East as even the Celtics, Cavs, Pistons, Magic all have losses. But, not my Hawks. This team has a chip on its shoulder and won at New Orleans, won at Orlando and has covered 4 of its last 5 contests. Hinrich remember is out until mid January with a thumb injury. The Bulls played well against the Cavs but struggled to close the door in the fourth quarter as the Cavs just absolutely took over at that point with Lebron. The line on this game moved from -1.5 quickly to -4 for the Bulls despite a split in the public. Josh Smith is out for the Hawks in this game. Having said this, the sharp line movement worries me a bit, but no lean on the side and a small lean on the under.

New York vs. San Antonio

With Tony Parker out, this team is a different team. Look, the Spurs are 1-4 and 0-3 at home. This team is 0-5 ATS. This Knicks team is good. Sure, they are. They are 4-2, they beat the Jazz at home and won at Washington. On any given day, I firmly believe the Knicks can beat anybody in Madison Square Garden. If the Heat can beat the Spurs by 16 on the road, look what the Knicks could possibly do. Look, at some point the Spurs have to step up and for that reason, this game is a no play for me. But, I can easily see this game going either way and I am staying away from it consequently.

Milwaukee vs. Cleveland

The Bucks are not a bad team at all thus far in the year. They have Richard Jefferson, Bell, Bogut, Villanueva but certainly need an upgrade from Ridnour who was 3/12 from the floor in their latest loss to Phoenix at home. This team had covered 3 straight before that including beat Washington at home in overtime and New York on the road. Cleveland is doing something the are not used to and that is scoring points galore. They have hit over a 100 in the last 4 games and face a Bucks team that has gone over in their last 3 games. Note, that Michael Redd is out for this game. But, that did not stop this team from being competitive at Boston and this is a game that I think Milwaukee might be able to hang tough in. Remember, they lost to Boston in a tight game by 11 on the road and would have covered this spread there. I don’t see Cleveland getting up for this game in a big way either and see them sleeping walking a bit through the first half. Lean on the Bucks here and lean on the under as well.

Denver vs. Charlotte

This is my POD today.

Detroit vs. Sacramento

This is one of my 3 selections today.

Jazz vs. 76ers

This is one of my 3 selections today.

College Basketball Tuesday

Indiana Purdue vs. Northeastern
Presbyterian vs. Houston
Georgia Southern vs. Duke

I just want to put an over arching theme on college basketball. To do any plays this early in the season when you have absolutely no idea what the gel factor of these teams are is risky at its best. I mean seriously, it is a rat race and a hand basket at this point in the season to even wager on these games. If you are going to put your hard earned money on something, wait for some data to work with. Or, wager a bit here and there, but once we have an idea of what we’re working with and can start with some data entry, than we can begin wagering in college basketball. NBA, NFL and College Football of course, there is enough action to work with for success.

Tuesday Comp Selection (12 of 17 Comp and 9 of 12 Comp Winners)

None.

CONTRIBUTED BY INDIAN COWBOY

Monday Night Football
San Francisco vs. Arizona
San Fran now has Singletary calling the shots. Hill is expected to start at quarterback. The Cardinals are favored by about -9.5 and why not? This team is 5-3 and could be hosting a playoff game if they continue winning. The last time this team hosted a playoff game was more than 50 years ago. The Birds are alo 6-2 ATS and Warner has thrown for 16 touchdowns and 6 interceptions this year as he has thrown for more than 2400 yards. Arizona beat this team 23-13 on the road earlier in the year as the 49ers do have revenge from that game. The Niners got spanked in their first game with their new coach losing 13-34 to the Seahawks. This team has lost 5 straight covers while the Cardinals have won 4 straight covers. But, I have a standard rule that on a weekday football game, in particular the NFL, to shy away from such a favorite that is backed by the public at 63%. I lean on the Niners here with the points, but how do you against the Cardinals with their offense that just beat the Rams 34-13, and beat Buffalo at home 41-17 and beat the Dolphins by 3 touchdowns. No thanks, although a small lean on the under. In fact, that will likely be my free pick for today. This is just a big fade on the public today as they favor the over by 67% and I can see this game going either way, but I can see a defensive battle here for the most part as the Cards pull away. Thus, this is just m comp pick today on the under 47.5.

NBA
*Injury Ticker
Tony Parker will miss the next 4 weeks for the Spurs*
*Devin Harris will likely not start today for the Nets
*Shawn Marion is listed as probable for tonight’s game vs. Nets

Yesterday’s Recap
If you noticed we hit the Hawks under yesterday. It is becoming more and more obvious that the Hawks are a defensive team. That game totaled 174. Remember, doing the recaps on a week’s event is just as important as capping for the next day. After all, what is better than looking at the day’s results form a puzzle that you didn’t know the answers to in the morning. What is more interesting is that the Thunder nearly won that game outright but ended up pushing as the Hawks surged ahead to remain undefeated. The Knicks took down the Jazz at home which shows the Knicks capability of being a great home dog. How about the Clippers getting their first win as a +4 home dog as the game went solidly over as well. Another reason why dog/over makes sense time and time again. I wish I would have taken a greater look at the Boston vs. Detroit game. Detroit is just not the same team without Billups and for them to play at home with Iverson with not as much experience with Iverson in the lineup against a vet Celtics team would have been a great lay on the Celtics here despite them being on the road. Toronto beats Charlotte on the road and the Bobcats don’t even score more than 80 points in that game. Toronto is also an under team on the road when they are favored. When they win on the road it has been typically going under and when they win at home, it has been typically going over. Of course, when they get challenged at home, it definitely goes over - take a look at the Warriors vs. Raptors game the other day. How crazy must you feel if you took Memphis @ Denver. Must be frustrating considering that team covered most of the way only to have Denver cover in the end. This is the one thing that is frustrating about taking dogs as they fall apart in the final few minutes b/c of free throws. How about the Kings blowing out the Warriors at home in a much needed win and the Lakers just destroying the Rockets? The Lakers are good folks - they are two deep in ever position it seems and at time even three deep in positions.

Oklahoma City vs. Indiana
Folks, Indiana is good. You can tell they were good when they nearly beat the Cavs on the road outright without Dunleavy. The Thunder played well against the Hawks at home. The public is roughly split on this game. Dunleavy is out indefinitely but the combination of Granger, Ford, Murphy, Foster and Daniels is more than getting it done. This team just comes off blowing out the Nets at home and now will look to do the same against the Thunder. But, the Thunder have covered 4 of their last 5 and the Pacers have covered 5 of their last 6 and even beat the Celtics by 16 at home giving the C’s their only loss on the year. My only lean here is on the Pacers, but I hate laying this many points.

Portland vs. Orlando
Portland hits the highway to Orlando. I don’t know what it is with the Magic this year, maybe they lack the passion or maybe the reserves they gave up were simply more valuable than they thought they were. While my Hawks sit at 5-0 the Magic sit at 4-2. But, the Magic are 4-1 at home. Portland comes off big back to back wins over the Rockets as well as the Twolves. Orlando comes off 4 wins in a row straight up and 3-1 ATS at home of late with the latest being a 25 blowout of the Wizards at home. What’s interesting about the total of this game Portland has played back to back overs on the road while the Magic have played 3 straight unders at home. So, if you think Portland will cause a stir here, take the over. If you think the Magic hold tough, take the under. Hence, favorite/under, dog/over.

Toronto vs. Boston
A bit surprised that more people are not biting on Toronto with the 8 points here. Roughly 60% are riding Boston at home here. There really isn’t much to write about this game except for the fact that the Raptors come off a nice win at Charlotte which was a bounce-back for them after the loss at Atlanta and the Celtics have done well at covering at home. Frankly, I can see this going either way, but the Celtics are funny in that they like to blowout the better teams at home and will lay down a bit for weaker teams at times. Having said this, I can see this game going either way.

Monday Comp Selection (12 of 16 Comp and 9 of 11 Comp Winners)
San Fran now has Singletary calling the shots. Hill is expected to start at quarterback. The Cardinals are favored by about -9.5 and why not? This team is 5-3 and could be hosting a playoff game if they continue winning. The last time this team hosted a playoff game was more than 50 years ago. The Birds are alo 6-2 ATS and Warner has thrown for 16 touchdowns and 6 interceptions this year as he has thrown for more than 2400 yards. Arizona beat this team 23-13 on the road earlier in the year as the 49ers do have revenge from that game. The Niners got spanked in their first game with their new coach losing 13-34 to the Seahawks. This team has lost 5 straight covers while the Cardinals have won 4 straight covers. But, I have a standard rule that on a weekday football game, in particular the NFL, to shy away from such a favorite that is backed by the public at 63%. I lean on the Niners here with the points, but how do you against the Cardinals with their offense that just beat the Rams 34-13, and beat Buffalo at home 41-17 and beat the Dolphins by 3 touchdowns. No thanks, although a small lean on the under. In fact, that will likely be my free pick for today. This is just a big fade on the public today as they favor the over by 67% and I can see this game going either way, but I can see a defensive battle here for the most part as the Cards pull away. Thus, this is just m comp pick today on the under 47.5.

By Indian Cowboy

Friday College Football
Nevada vs. Fresno State
This is my Friday POD.

NBA
New Orleans vs. Charlotte
I’m watching the Orlando vs. Philly game right now and I think to myself does any underdog cover during the weekdays anymore? lol. This entire week, the favorites have been romping over and over and over again. Such is the case right now as I watch TCU, Virginia Tech and Orlando - all favorites all covering. I’m actually on Maryland right now so hopefully they can make a game of it in the second half. As per this game, New Orleans comes off a loss to my baby Hawks. One would think Byron Scott’s team comes out fired up for this game as they usually do after a loss. Of course, it blows that over 72% of the public is on them. Note, that the line opened up at -6.5 New Orleans and quickly jumped to -7.5. I lean on the Hornets here but I never taken any team that is favored by the public to a tune of 70%. New Orleans played its first under against the Hawks, previously, they had gone over in all the games. Hence, look for Hornets to continue to go over on the road it seems. Charlotte has played more and more unders at home. Look for this game to possibly go over the posted total as well just in case Charlotte shows back home with some bite after a tight ballgame with the

New York vs. Washington
It’s not very often you see an 0-3 team as a 6 point favorite. New York is actually 2-2 and I’m sure even they are surprised to be .500 at this point. This team is actually ranked 11th in offense and 27th in defense currently. The Knicks have lost 3 straight covers including a 4 point spread to the Bobcats last night. This team beat Washington in overtime in February of last season. Washington is the public favorite here despite being winless on the year. Wizards have been playing better and if there was a game they bust out, it is likely this one at home as they played admirably at Detroit and at the Bucks in an OT loss. Small lean on Washington here.

Toronto vs. Atlanta
How ’bout my Baby Hawks. Yet, the Hawks aren’t babies anymore as they lead the Southeast at 3-0. The Hawks are a slight 3 point favorite and the public is split on this game. The Hawks come off a big win at New Orleans really propelling the legitimacy of this team and Toronto to their credit is 3-1. They won at Philadelphia and Milwaukee and lost at home to the Pistons. The Hawks did one better winning on the road at New Orleans and Orlando. This game can go either way - remember, the Hawks beat Toronto in overtime at the end of last year. The Raptors though come off a loss so they will be fired up heading into this game. I will likely stay away as this game will go down to the wire likely.

Cleveland vs. Indiana
Dunleavy is out for this game and James is listed as probable. 61% of the public seems to take to Cleveland at home here, but that doesn’t mean anything considering that 63% rode Orlando and they seem to be doing just fine up 9 at the end of the third quarter as I write this. Indiana is currently 1-2 after they lost to Phoenix at home in a game Vegas got buried as Phoenix was the heavy public favorite, this team beat Boston by 16 and fought Detroit well enough to cover the large 10 point spread. Cleveland has actually covered their last 9 of 10 games going back to last year and hammered Dallas on the road which was my POD and also took it to the visiting Bulls winning by 14 and covering the 9 point spread. Cleveland is actually ranked 7th in the league in defense. This team is 3-1 ATS thus far as well. Well, with Dunleavy being out, the edge clearly goes to Cleveland here to win in a blow. Having said that, the Pacers are one of those teams that are great at covering fairly big spreads. I can see this go either way and frankly will stay away.

Detroit vs. New Jersey
Iverson is listed probable for this game as is Vince Carter. Well, meet the new look Pistons. I actually think the trade was positive for both Denver and Detroit. For Detroit they get a scorer that can help an offense that lags at times and for the Nuggets they get that true point guard that will help the entire team finally get significantly better. Plus, they get some size with McDyess. Detroit sits at 4-0 and are favored by more than 71% of the public as they are favored by nearly 8 points here. Detroit won at Toronto and Charlotte with relative ease and NJ comes off an ugly 28 point loss to the Suns at home and losing to the Warriors at home as well. This team did win at Washington to their credit. I just can’t bet on any team that is backed by the public to a tune of 71% nor can I bet on the pitiful Nets.

Miami vs. San Antonio
I have a play on this game, it is my only play for Today, it is a 3* Selection. gl.

Phoenix vs. Chicago
At this point, why would you go against the Phoenix Suns? I mean really. Here you have a team that night in and night out is a heavy public favorite on the road or at home and seems to cover more often than not. After losing at home to New Orleans, this team has been heavy public favorites at NJ, @ Indiana and Portland at home and covered all 3 games. I’m sure Vegas was thrilled with these results. Now, this team is a 67% favorite heading on the road to Chicago. The Bulls are 2-3 but both wins come at home and all 3 losses come on the road. Hence, one can see why the low spread here at home. If anything, I lean on the Bulls here to win outright especially after the fact Phoenix comes off such a big win. But, no thanks, I will be a spectator for this game.

Memphis vs. Golden State
Golden State is really banged up for this game as Ellis is out, Maggette is doubtful and Harrington is questionable. Under normal circumstances, I would be all over Golden State in this one. After all, these 2 teams just played, and when two teams play each other immediately after just having a contest, the team that lost has a huge revenge angle and advantage. Memphis barely beat this team at home just a couple of days ago. Golden State will be fired up and ready to roll…Except for the fact, the are very banged up as no Ellis, Maggatte Doubtful and Harrington is questionable. Despite all this, I still lean on Golden State with that revenge angle. A small lean on the under as well given the injuries but too many unknowns here for me so just staying away.

By Nolan Sinclair and Robert Ferringo

Mike D’Antoni brought excitement and flare to Madison Square Garden before the New York Knicks even stepped on the floor for the 2008-09 season. The excitement that was felt by all the Knicks fans was buzzing like a cell phone on vibrate after your buddies found out you just went home with that too-hot-for-you girl. And then opening night came and the New Knicks made good on all the preseason hope, going up 25 points on the new-look Miami Heat. That might have been the best a Knicks team since Patrick Ewing was stomping around the Garden with his 80-pound kneepads. Of course, in vintage Knickerbockers style, they almost blew that lead but they scored 120 points and ended up winning by five.

All was well in MSG that night. All of the players were playing with fire and determination and best of all two specific players were left out of this joyous occasion. Stephon Marbury and Eddy Curry, the two bastard children left from the Isaiah Thomas debacle, didn’t play one second. The boxscore read, DNP-CD (Did Not Play, Coaches Decision). Not only did the Knicks play well and win with D’Antoni’s new system, but also did it without the two players New York basketball fans wanted gone.

So it was a great night. But since then Reality has knocked the Knicks in the face like a womanly Carmelo Anthony slap.

The Knicks had taken their newfound glory on the road to face Philadelphia, another sexy pick this year, and the 76ers were ready. They smacked around the feel-good Knicks and won by a final tally of 116-87. “No problem,” most bettors said, “The Knicks are still better this year.” Then New York went back home to take on an extremely average Bucks team, which showed the Knicks again that they weren’t ready to challenge the great…I mean good…I mean average…I mean below average teams in the NBA. Final score: 94-86.

The betting market had completely overreacted to the Knicks’ big opening night. They are 0-2 ATS since that game, taking heavy public action in each outing, and after their original outburst they have gone ‘under’ in both games. In fact, following the highest of the highs for the Knicks and their 121 points against the Heat, they have scored just a combined 173 points in two losses. They have not knocked down open shots, not pushed the ball into scoring opportunities, not hit the open man, and are not playing with the energy and intensity that fans saw on opening night. Not only did both of their last two games stay ‘under’, but also they stayed ‘under’ by 30 and 11 points, respectively.

Sorry to bust your bubble New York, but get used to it. This team is still the New York Knicks and they are still a few years away (from LeBron in 2010!). Ladies and Gentlemen, your new, I mean same old, New York Knicks.

Contributed by Vegas Sports Informer

Today is Tuesday November 4, 2008 and today is Election Day. That’s right you sports gamblers: today we all need to get out and vote because we really can make a difference! No matter who wins tonight we can see history in the making as our next President or next Vice President can start a new look in the White House.

Tonight I’m sure every TV channel will have something about the Election and most people probably think nothing is on the tube to watch. But if you want to watch some good basketball then the NBA is the way you go.

Tonight there are three games on the NBA board but two of them could have future playoff pictures. The first game could be a possible NBA Finals matchup with the Boston Celtics at Houston to face the red hot Rockets. The Rockets have a new face on the team with Ron Artest and in their last three games Houston is a perfect 3-0 and at home the Rockets are holding teams to under 80 points per games (74 ppg). The defending champs, Boston, are coming off a road loss to the Indiana Pacers but last year the Celtics won in Houston to snap the Houston Rockets’ franchise-record winning streak I see pay back in this game in Houston!

The other game tonight is the Dallas Mavericks at San Antonio to face the Spurs. San Antonio is winless in their last two games but the Spurs are still playing without Manu Ginobili. The Mavericks have also struggled in their last three games and their defense doesn’t look any better then last year. In the Mavericks’ two losses their defense has given up an average of 106 ppg. This game should be interesting and I can see both teams in the playoffs. But neither of these teams will win it all in the West.

All in all, the state of Texas will have great basketball tonight. All four teams will be in the NBA Playoffs and I can see one of these four teams maybe in their Conference Finals.

By Robert Ferringo

I have only made a few cautious journeys through Tennessee. And I can say that more than any other state in the Union I have the hardest time understanding the overall thought process the Mountain Folk of this region.

Let’s put it this way: when I saw that Ashley Todd – that crazy right-wing psychopath that lied to police about someone carving a backwards “B” onto her face – walked out of the police station wearing a Tennessee Volunteers hoodie I can say that I wasn’t the least bit surprised.

So with that disclaimer in mind, there is glee echoing throughout the foothills of this rabid, in-bred region as Philip Fulmer has announced that this will be his final season as the head coach of the Tennessee. All Fulmer has done is go 150-51, win a national championship in 2008, win SEC Titles in 1997 and 1998, and appear in SEC title games in 2001, 2004, and 2007.

But apparently Tennessee fans are suffering from the same delusions that Nebraska, Alabama, Florida State, Notre Dame and several other former dynasties suffer from. Those schools all still think that they should be winning 10 or 12 games and competing for a national championship every year. Sorry, but that just isn’t the college football landscape in the 21st century.

Here is a link to a solid short posting about Fulmer’s reaction after the blowout loss at South Carolina from a writer who is following the team. (I would also like to point out that three of Tennessee’s last five losses have come against Florida, Georgia, and Alabama – all teams that have been in the Top 2 at one point this year – and the fourth is at South Carolina, another Top 25 team, and the fifth was at Auburn.)

The Vols are currently 25.5-point favorites over Wyoming this weekend in Knoxville. They then finish at Vanderbilt and at home against Kentucky. Don’t be surprised to see Tennessee make a little run here. They are currently 3-6 overall, and those three wins would make them bowl eligible.