Date | Match Up | Rating | Score | Result | Profit | Lead Time | Analysis |
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02-24-23 | Fairfield v. Niagara OVER 124.5 | Top | 68-76 | Win | 100 | 11 h 18 m | Show |
MAAC Total of the Week. My selection is on the 'over' between Fairfield and Niagara at 7 pm et on Friday. We got the result we wanted to set up this play in last Sunday's low-scoring 61-52 Niagara loss at Marist. While the Purple Eagles rate a ridiculous 350th in the country in adjusted tempo this season (according to KenPom), the oddsmakers have adjusted their totals accordingly and we haven't seen them post consecutive 'under' results since January 20th and 22nd (only one of those games stayed 'under' the total we're working with tonight). Fairfield has seen each of its last three contests go 'over' the total. This isn't the same stout defensive Stags squad we've come to expect. They've allowed five of their last seven opponents to knock down at least 25 field goals (one of those results was aided by overtime). While Fairfield won't 'wow' you offensively, it has at least shown some consistency, making good on 21 or more field goals in 10 straight games entering Friday's matchup. This is an ideal 'get right' spot for Niagara's offense. It got off 59 field goal attempts but could only make good on 17 of them against an improved Marist squad last Sunday. On the flip side, you would have to go all the way back to December 18th to find the last time the Purple Eagles held an opponent to fewer than 20 made field goals. They've yielded 24 or more successful field goal attempts in three of their last five contests. In the lone previous matchup between these two teams this season we saw 146 total points despite the two combining to knock down only seven three-pointers (they average 12 made threes per game combined this season). The pace was there in that game and Fairfield was able to get to the free throw line with consistency (as has often been the case this season as the Stags average 21 FT attempts per game). I like the fact that this game will be played at Niagara as the Purple Eagles have been a more efficient offensive team on their home floor, averaging two more made field goals per game compared to their season average, despite getting off one less field goal attempt on average. Take the over (10*). |
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02-23-23 | Washington State v. Stanford UNDER 135 | Top | 67-63 | Win | 100 | 16 h 31 m | Show |
Pac-12 Total of the Week. My selection is on the 'under' between Washington State and Stanford at 11 pm et on Thursday. A lot has happened since these two Pac-12 squads last met back on January 14th. Most notably, the 'over' has gone 5-4 in Washington State's last nine games and 6-4 in Stanford's last 10 contests, including three straight Cardinal 'over' results entering Thursday's rematch. I'm expecting a game closely resembling what we saw back in January here, noting that game totalled just 119 points with both teams topping out at 22 made field goals and neither getting off more than 51 field goal attempts. Note that Washington State has held five of its last six opponents to 56 or fewer FG attempts. Stanford hasn't enjoyed the same type of defensive success and let's face it, the sudden uptick in the Cardinal's pace hasn't been working in their favor as they've lost four of their last five games. With that being said, I do think Stanford can get back on track defensively here, noting that Washington State ranks 328th in the country in adjusted tempo this season, according to KenPom. The Cougars knocked down 29 and 27 field goals last week as it enjoyed consecutive wins against Oregon State and Oregon. Prior to that they had been held to 24 or fewer made field goals in eight of their last nine contests. This isn't a court where Washington State has enjoyed a ton of offensive success in recent years, knocking down 20, 22, 21 and 24 field goals in its last four trips. Stanford has been rolling along offensively, making good on 28 or more field goals in three straight games but again, that has had something to do with playing at a faster pace than we've been accustomed to seeing from the Cardinal. Note that it figures to face resistance here as Washington State ranks 53rd in the nation in adjusted defensive efficiency this season despite having faced the 15th most difficult schedule (both according to KenPom). Take the under (10*). |
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02-22-23 | Wake Forest v. NC State OVER 155 | 74-90 | Win | 100 | 13 h 3 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'over' between Wake Forest and N.C. State at 9 pm et on Wednesday. I'm not convinced the oddsmakers can set this total high enough as the Demon Deacons and Wolfpack renew acquaintances on Wednesday night in Raleigh. The first meeting between these two teams this season totalled 156 points back on January 28th. The pace was certainly there on that night as we saw a whopping 129 field goal attempts. The Wolfpack did their part, knocking down 32-of-69 shots from the field but the Demon Deacons had an off night shooting the basketball, connecting on only 26-of-60 field goal attempts. You could say that N.C. State has been fortunate that its last few opponents haven't been able to make the most of their scoring opportunities. The Wolfpack have allowed 61, 62 and 62 FG attempts over that stretch but none of those three foes managed to knock down more than 27. Wake Forest figures to test N.C. State in that regard here as the revenge-minded Demon Deacons have made good on 28 or more field goals in eight of their last 13 contests. On the flip side, Wake Forest leaves a lot to be desired defensively, having allowed its last seven opponents to knock down 28, 32, 27, 27, 30, 27 and 37 field goals. Meanwhile, N.C. State is locked-in offensively right now, pushing the pace and making the most of its scoring opportunities having connected on 37, 30 and 32 field goals over its last three games since an embarrassing 19-of-57 shooting effort against one of the best defensive teams in the country, Virginia, back on February 7th. All told, the Wolfpack have made good on 28 or more field goals in six of their last eight games overall. The Demon Deacons have shown little interest (or ability) to slow down their opponents, allowing 60 or more FG attempts in seven of their last nine games and 63 or more in four straight contests. This game is a matchup of two teams that both rank inside the top-75 in the country in adjusted tempo this season (according to KenPom). Take the over (8*). |
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02-21-23 | Youngstown State v. Robert Morris OVER 144 | 64-83 | Win | 100 | 11 h 58 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'over' between Youngstown State and Robert Morris at 7 pm et on Tuesday. While few are paying much attention, Youngstown State is currently on an incredible shooting run having knocked down 30 or more field goals in six straight games. In fact, you would have to go back 24 games - all the way to November 20th - to find the last time the Penguins were held to fewer than 26 made field goals. While the schedule has had something to do with it (they've faced the 326th most difficult schedule in the country this season according to KenPom), the fact that they rank 30th in the country in adjusted offensive efficiency (also according to KenPom) is impressive to say the least. While Robert Morris has held up well defensively of late (it has limited four straight opponents to 22 or fewer made field goals), the toughest offensive opponent it faced over that stretch was Cleveland State and the Vikings check in just 185th in adjusted offensive efficiency and 294th in adjusted tempo this season. Youngstown State should present somewhat of a 'shock to the system' here. The first meeting between these two teams this season totalled 'only' 134 points in a Penguins blowout victory. Keep in mind, Robert Morris made good on just one three-pointers and five free throws in that contest. The Colonials average eight made threes and 12 successful free throws per contest here at home where tonight's rematch will be played. Robert Morris is by no means an offensive juggernaut but has knocked down at least 21 field goals in 23 straight games and could catch Youngstown State letting its guard down here after the Penguins routed Milwaukee and Green Bay by 29 and 30 points in their last two games. Take the over (8*). |
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02-20-23 | Hawaii v. CS Bakersfield OVER 122.5 | Top | 61-50 | Loss | -110 | 12 h 11 m | Show |
Big West Total of the Week. My selection is on the 'over' between Hawaii and Cal State-Bakersfield at 8 pm et on Monday. Bakersfield has quietly gone on a 9-0 'over' run over its last nine contests and that includes an earlier 72-69 loss on the road against tonight's opponent, Hawaii, back on January 28th. The Roadrunners were held to fewer than 20 made field goals in seven of their first 18 games this season but have since found some consistency at the offensive end of the floor, knocking down 22 or more field goals in each of their last eight games, despite ranking 344th in the country in adjusted tempo this season according to KenPom. CSUB is also coming off a stellar defensive effort in an 'upset' win at Cal-Poly last time out. Stringing together strong defensive performances has proven difficult for the Roadrunners this season, however. Note that after holding an opponent to fewer than 20 made field goals, they've allowed 72, 63, 79, 65, 71, 67 and 79 points in their next contest. They've actually held two of their last three foes to less than 20 successful FG attempts, but those games came against two of the country's weakest offensive teams in Cal State-Northridge and Cal-Poly. Hawaii ranks an impressive 66th in the country in adjusted defensive efficiency this season according to KenPom but has also faced only the 272nd most difficult schedule (also according to KenPom). The Rainbow Warriors have actually allowed seven of their last nine opponents to make good on at least 23 field goals. They were fortunate Long Beach State couldn't make the most of its scoring opportunities on Saturday as the 49ers got off 60 FG attempts but only connected on 25 of them (Hawaii won that game 70-67). Here, we'll note that the 'over' is 31-16 in Hawaii's last 47 games as a road favorite or pk'em and 9-1 in CSUB's last 10 games when coming off an outright win as an underdog. Take the over (10*). |
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02-19-23 | Rider v. Quinnipiac OVER 140 | Top | 88-90 | Win | 100 | 6 h 28 m | Show |
MAAC Total of the Week. My selection is on the 'over' between Rider and Quinnipiac at 2 pm et on Sunday. When these teams last met this season they combined to score 'only' 135 points, easily staying 'under' the closing total of 143.5. We're working with a lower posted total this time around and I believe it will prove too low. Rider has gone on an offensive tear over the last month or so, knocking down 29, 30, 26, 28, 25 and 30 field goals over its last six games and that's without facing the conference's fastest-paced team, Iona, a single time over that stretch. The Broncs defensive numbers have been terrific lately as well. They had held 11 straight opponents to 23 or fewer made field goals before giving up 26 in Friday's 81-78 loss to Canisius. With that being said, those results were certainly due in part to the slow-paced opponents they faced. Here, they'll be up against a Quinnipiac squad that ranks 57th in the country in adjusted tempo this season according to KenPom. Like the Broncs, the Bobcats have been consistently good offensively of late, connecting on 27, 29, 23, 29, 24 and 24 field goals over their last six games. The problem for Quinnipiac is that it is still giving up too many scoring opportunities to the opposition, allowing nine consecutive opponents to hoist up at least 58 field goal attempts. Given how hot Rider has been from the field, there's a good chance it goes off here if the pace ticks up at all. With that being said, the Bobcats are favored for a reason. I'm confident both teams do enough offensively to help this one 'over' the reasonable total. Take the over (10*). |
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02-19-23 | North Carolina v. NC State OVER 151.5 | 69-77 | Loss | -110 | 5 h 47 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'over' between North Carolina and N.C. State at 1 pm et on Sunday. These two teams combined to score 'only' 149 points in their first matchup this season. Interestingly, the Tar Heels scored 80 points in that game despite knocking down only 20-of-54 field goal attempts. The difference proved to be their ridiculous 36-of-39 performance from the free throw line. They were certainly fortunate that the Wolfpack couldn't make the most of their scoring opportunities in that game as N.C. State did get off 62 field goal attempts (connecting on only 26 of them). I would certainly anticipate a sharper offensive performance from the Wolfpack in this home rematch, noting that they enter on a serious tear having made good on 30 or more field goals in four of their last six contests. North Carolina has done a good job of keeping its opponents' pace down lately, but has still allowed 24 or more made field goals in eight straight games. Meanwhile, N.C. State has been fortunate that its last two opponents, Boston College and Syracuse, have had off nights shooting the basketball as those two foes hoisted up 61 and 62 FG attempts, respectively. North Carolina figures to be able to take advantage of that potential high shot volume, noting that it has knocked down 30, 32 and 29 field goals over its last three contests. Take the over (8*). |
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02-18-23 | Red Wings v. Seattle Kraken UNDER 6.5 | 2-4 | Win | 100 | 25 h 17 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'under' between Detroit and Seattle at 10:35 pm et on Saturday. The Red Wings have scored a whopping 16 goals in their first three games on their current road trip. I don't expect them to have an easy time scoring as their western road swing continues in Seattle on Saturday, however. The Kraken have held eight of their last 11 opponents to three goals or less. Seattle has scored 12 goals over its last three contests but will be up against a Red Wings squad that has allowed three goals or less in nine of its last 11 games overall. Here, we'll note that the 'under' is 35-21 with Detroit coming off a game in which it scored four goals or more over the last three seasons, resulting in an average total of 5.6 goals. The 'under' is also 10-2 with the Kraken coming off a game that totalled eight goals or more this season, as is the case here. Take the under (8*). |
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02-18-23 | Baylor v. Kansas OVER 148.5 | Top | 71-87 | Win | 100 | 10 h 57 m | Show |
Big 12 Total of the Month. My selection is on the 'over' between Baylor and Kansas at 4 pm et on Saturday. We won with the 'under' in the first meeting between these two teams this season as Baylor prevailed by a score of 75-69 in a game that saw the scoring fizzle in the second half. The Bears were fortunate to win that contest as they struggled to make good on their scoring opportunities, connecting on just 23-of-62 field goal attempts. While they're the underdog this time around, I do actually expect a better offensive showing, noting that they rank first in the country in adjusted offensive efficiency this season according to KenPom and enter this game having made good on 25 or more field goals in five straight games. Few teams are as locked-in offensively as the Jayhawks right now. They've knocked down 33 or more field goals in each of their last three games. While they've posted a couple of standout defensive performances over their last five contests I still think it's worth noting that they haven't held a single opponent to fewer than 20 made field goals in a game this season. Part of that has to do with the fact that they play at a fast pace, ranking 70th in the nation in adjusted tempo (also according to KenPom). Kansas has hoisted up 60 or more FG attempts in five of its last six games overall and I'm confident we'll see it go on the aggressive in this 'revenge' spot on Saturday. Baylor, while a solid defensive team, has allowed nine consecutive opponents to knock down at least 24 field goals. Take the over (10*). |
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02-18-23 | Boston College v. Florida State OVER 141.5 | 75-69 | Win | 100 | 6 h 38 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'over' between Boston College and Florida State at 12 noon et on Saturday. Both of these teams are coming off poor offensive showings last time out but I see this as an ideal 'get-right' spot in that regard for both on Saturday. Boston College once again got into the 60's in terms of field goal attempts (for the third time in its last four games) but could only make good on 21 of those attempts against a terrific Pittsburgh team on Tuesday. The Eagles have still connected on 26 or more field goals in three of their last four contests and should benefit from facing a Florida State team that ranks 254th in the country in adjusted defensive efficiency this season according to KenPom. The Seminoles have apparently thrown defense out the window during a miserable 1-6 slide, allowing all seven of those opponents to knock down at least 25 field goals. Florida State is favored for a reason here, however. Boston College has also struggled defensively of late, allowing three straight opponents to hoist up 60 or more field goal attempts and six of its last seven foes to make good on at least 26 field goals. This is the first meeting between these two teams this season so it's a little tougher for the oddsmakers to gauge where exactly the total should be set. I believe it will prove too low. Take the over (8*). |
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02-17-23 | Stars v. Wild OVER 5.5 | Top | 1-2 | Loss | -108 | 13 h 49 m | Show |
Central Division Total of the Year. My selection is on the 'over' between Dallas and Minnesota at 8:05 pm et on Friday. With the 'under' having cashed in each of the Stars last nine games and seven of the Wild's last eight games overall, we're starting to see adjustments from the oddsmakers with a 5.5 popping up for the third time in Dallas' last four games and for the first time in the last four games for Minnesota (the last time it did the Wild produced their most recent 'over' result). We'll go the contrarian route here as I feel this game is well-positioned to be higher-scoring than expected. Note that the Stars are operating with a small margin for error defensively right now, having allowed 34, 39, 31 and 37 shots on goal over their last four contests. The Wild had allowed 30 or more shots on goal in seven of their last eight games before holding Colorado to only 19 on Wednesday. In that contest, Minnesota flipped the script, firing 43 shots on goal but quite simply ran into a hot goaltender. Here, we'll note that the 'over' is a perfect 8-0 with the Stars coming off five or six loses in their last seven games over the last two seasons, as is the case here, with that situation producing an average total of 7.9 goals. Meanwhile, the 'over' is a perfect 9-0 with the Wild playing at home off a one-goal defeat against a division opponent, which is also the situation here, resulting in an average total of 8.6 goals in that spot. While both teams boast hot goaltenders, I don't mind the matchup here. Stars starting netminder Jake Oettinger is having a terrific season but the Wild managed to score five goals against him just two months ago. Wild goaltender Filip Gustavsson has arguably been better than supposed number-one Marc-Andre Fleury this season but the last time the Stars saw him between the pipes they scored three goals against him (before adding an empty-netter) earlier this month. Fleury has posted a less-than-impressive .881 save percentage over his last four games. Take the over (10*). |
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02-16-23 | Stanford v. UCLA OVER 130.5 | Top | 64-73 | Win | 100 | 15 h 50 m | Show |
Pac-12 Total of the Week. My selection is on the 'over' between Stanford and UCLA at 11 pm et on Thursday. It's easy to forget that the first meeting between these two teams produced 146 points as that matchup took place way back on December 1st. Since then, UCLA has been an 'under' machine, cashing at a 12-5 clip over its last 16 games. That leads us to a lower posted total for this rematch. I believe it will prove too low. Stanford enjoyed a nice run in late-January but has largely been an afterthought in the Pac-12 this season. With that being said, I have a lot of respect for the Cardinal offensively, noting that they rank 64th in the country in adjusted offensive efficiency this season according to KenPom, despite facing the nation's 63rd most difficult schedule (also according to KenPom). You would have to go back 19 games to find the last time Stanford was held to fewer than 20 made field goals in a game (I use that number as UCLA has held six of its last 11 opponents to fewer than 20 made field goals). Over their last five games, the Cardinal have impressively knocked down 28, 26, 24, 23 and 33 field goals. They've scored at least 62 points in eight straight contests. Unfortunately, the Cardinal defense hasn't been along for the ride, allowing 25, 29, 27 and 28 made field goals over its last four games. There's a good chance we see the Bruins offense go off in this one, noting that Stanford has also yielded more than 60 field goal attempts in three of its last four contests opening the door for a sharp-shooting Bruins squad that has made good on 25 or more field goals in four straight games, despite hoisting up 53 or fewer field goal attempts in two of those contests. UCLA ranks 24th in the nation in adjusted offensive efficiency despite having faced the 39th toughest slate of opponents to date (both according to KenPom once again). I do expect the Bruins to get pushed a bit in this one and I believe that lends itself to a relatively high-scoring affair. Take the over (10*). |
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02-16-23 | Flyers v. Seattle Kraken UNDER 6 | Top | 2-6 | Loss | -110 | 16 h 40 m | Show |
Non-Conference Total of the Week. My selection is on the 'under' between Philadelphia and Seattle at 10:05 pm et on Thursday. We got the result we wanted in this same matchup on Sunday afternoon as the two teams combined to score seven goals in a Kraken road victory. I won't hesitate to back the 'under' as the scene shifts to Seattle for Thursday's rematch. Note that Kraken home games have been considerably lower-scoring than their road affairs. While their road tilts have averaged north of 7.0 goals per contest, their home games have produced an average total of only 6.0 goals with the 'under' cashing at a 16-9-1 clip. Goals haven't been easy to come by for the Flyers over the last month or so. Going back to January 19th they've scored four goals in a game only once (in a game that totalled just four goals), three goals three times and two goals or less on six occasions. It's a similar story for Seattle. It has produced four goals or more three times since January 16th, three goals twice and two goals or less in seven contests. Here, we'll note that the 'under' is 10-3 with the Flyers playing on the road off an 'over' result this season, leading to an average total of 5.2 goals in that situation. Meanwhile, the 'under' is 8-2 with the Kraken coming off a one-goal loss this season, which is the case here, producing an average total of 5.6 goals in that spot. Take the under (10*). |
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02-16-23 | Clippers v. Suns UNDER 224.5 | Top | 116-107 | Win | 100 | 15 h 41 m | Show |
Total of the Week. My selection is on the 'under' between Los Angeles and Phoenix at 10 pm et on Thursday. We have a good setup for this play on Thursday as both the Clippers and Suns shot the lights out in their respective games two nights ago but are unlikely to reach those heights in a much tougher matchup here. Los Angeles took advantage of an undermanned Warriors team playing the second of back-to-backs on Tuesday, putting up a whopping 134 points in a 10-point victory. Kawhi Leonard knocked down 12-of-17 shot attempts including a ridiculous 7-of-9 from three-point range. Norm Powell also enjoyed an outlier of a night off the bench, pouring in 24 points on 10-of-17 shooting. Powell is expected to sit out Thursday's game, however. Prior to that contest, the Clippers had been held to 38 and 42 made field goals in their previous two games, getting off just 86 and 85 field goal attempts in those contests - both of which stayed 'under' the total. Defensively, the Clips have been limiting their opponents' scoring opportunities, holding five of their last eight foes to 84 or fewer FG attempts. The simple fact is, their last three opponents have shot incredibly well. I do think we see Los Angeles tighten the screws defensively here in its last game prior to the All-Star break against a familiar opponent in the Suns. Note that while Phoenix has made good on 42 or more field goals in all five meetings in this series going back to the start of 2022, it scored 'only' 106, 103, 109, 112 and 111 points in those five contests. The Suns did knock down a whopping 50 field goals in a night where everything was going in against a subpar Kings defense on Tuesday. Prior to that they had topped out at 43 made field goals over their last seven games. Few teams are as locked-in defensively as the Suns right now. They've limited five of their last six opponents to 85 or fewer FG attempts and have allowed just 35, 38, 43, 36 and 37 made field goals over that stretch. The lone outlier came in a road game at Atlanta with a short-handed lineup on trade deadline day last Thursday. Phoenix has certainly had Los Angeles' number defensively, holding it to 96 points or less in an incredible four of five meetings since last January (all five of those contests stayed 'under' the total). Take the under (10*). |
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02-14-23 | Hurricanes v. Capitals OVER 6 | Top | 3-2 | Loss | -100 | 10 h 44 m | Show |
My selection is on the 'over' between Carolina and Washington at 7:05 pm et on Tuesday. UPDATE: Alex Ovechkin has been ruled OUT for the Capitals. While that obviously makes me a little less confident in the play, I still like the price and the situation. The first meeting between these two teams this season was a relatively low-scoring affair as the Hurricanes skated to a 3-2 home victory on Halloween Night. It's worth noting that we haven't seen consecutive matchups between the Canes and Capitals stay 'under' the total since a playoff series back in 2019. Here, I'm anticipating a high-scoring affair. Both teams are coming off poor showings offensively. The Canes dropped a 6-2 decision on home ice against the Rangers on Saturday while the Capitals fell by a 4-1 score at home against the Sharks on Sunday. Note that the 'over' is 12-4 with Carolina coming off six or seven wins in its last eight games over the last two seasons, as is the case here, resulting in an average total of 6.8 goals in that spot. Meanwhile, the 'over' is 34-18 with Washington seeking revenge for a loss against an opponent over the same stretch, leading to an average total of 6.6 goals in that situation. Take the over (10*). |
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02-14-23 | Miami-OH v. Toledo UNDER 157 | 71-89 | Loss | -115 | 8 h 15 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'under' between Miami-Ohio and Toledo at 7 pm et on Tuesday. These two teams just met on January 31st in a game that totalled 159 points. It's worth noting that both teams shot the lights out in that game with Miami-Ohio connecting on 31-of-58 field goal attempts and Toledo knocking down 33-of-64. It was a similar story in the Redhawks and Rockets previous matchup last February in Toledo as Miami-Ohio made good on a ridiculous 14 three-pointers (it averages six made threes per game on the road this season) while the Rockets knocked down 35-of-65 FG attempts. Here, we'll note that while Toledo does play fast, it doesn't play any faster at home compared to on the road and I do think Miami-Ohio can at least slow the Rockets down to a certain extent, noting that the Redhawks have limited opponents to just 55 FG attempts per contest on the road this season and check in having impressively limited their foes to fewer than 60 FG attempts in 11 of their last 13 games overall. While Miami-Ohio doesn't rate out well defensively this season according to KenPom, it has played better lately, holding 10 of its last 13 opponents to 27 or fewer made field goals and four of its last six to 26 or less. Offensively, the Redhawks are once again sputtering, having made good on 24, 24, 31, 22, 26 and 20 field goals over their last six contests. The lone outlier over that stretch came against Toledo but we've seen the Rockets right the ship defensively since, yielding just 20, 27 and 26 made field goals over their last three games, despite allowing 65 or more FG attempts in two of those three contests. After knocking down 30 or more field goals in four of five games from January 17th to 31st, Toledo has made good on just 28, 26 and 24 field goals over its last three games. While you would have to go back three meetings to find the last 'under' result in this series, we haven't seen three straight meetings go 'over' the total (or push) since 2016-17. Take the under (8*). |
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02-13-23 | Wizards v. Warriors OVER 232.5 | 126-135 | Win | 100 | 14 h 51 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'over' between Washington and Golden State at 10:10 pm et on Monday. I think we see a 'slingshot' effect from the Warriors offense here after they failed to make the most of their wealth of scoring opportunities in a 109-103 loss to the Lakers on Saturday. Here, they're in a prime bounce-back spot against a Wizards squad that has allowed 42 or more made field goals in eight of their last 10 games (the only two occasions where they didn't over that stretch came against struggling offenses in the Pelicans and Hornets - both of those teams managed to get off 92+ field goal attempts). Note also that five of the Wizards last eight opponents have hoisted up at least 92 field goal attempts so they've shown no ability, or interest, in slowing the pace. Prior to Saturday's game, the Warriors had made good on 43, 45, 56 and 46 field goals over their last four contests. They've gotten off at least 90 FG attempts in six of their last eight games overall and figure to stay aggressive here off consecutive losses. Defensively, the Warriors have left a lot to be desired. They check in having allowed at least 40 made field goals in an incredible 19 of their last 20 games. They're just one game removed from allowing Portland to shoot north of 55% from the field. The last time these two teams met we saw 245 total points in a Warriors road victory in mid-January. We're actually working with a lower posted total this time around and that has a lot to do with who isn't playing for the Warriors right now (Steph Curry is sidelined until after the All-Star break and Andrew Wiggins is questionable to play due to an ankle injury). Take the over (8*). |
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02-13-23 | Miami-FL v. North Carolina UNDER 156.5 | Top | 80-72 | Win | 100 | 12 h 38 m | Show |
ACC Total of the Week. My selection is on the 'under' between Miami and North Carolina at 7 pm et on Monday. This total is about as high as you would expect in this matchup, noting that we saw a closing total of 154 in a game that totalled only 142 points in the most recent meeting between the two teams last season. While North Carolina is always going to be known for its offense, it can play some defense as well. The Tar Heels have held nine of their last 10 opponents to 27 or fewer made field goals while also limiting six of their last nine foes to 57 or fewer field goal attempts. North Carolina checks in ranked a respectable 46th in adjusted defensive efficiency this season according to KenPom. The Hurricanes are admittedly red hot offensively right now, having made good on more than 30 field goals in three of their last four games. However, their margin for error hasn't been all that large as they've gotten off fewer than 60 field goal attempts in four of their last six games and 60 or less in eight of their last 10 contests overall. Miami hasn't played its best defensive basketball lately, yielding 28 or more made field goals in three of its last four games with Saturday's poor performance at that end of the floor against Louisville perhaps serving as a low-water mark (it allowed the Cardinals to knock down 33-of-57 field goal attempts). The Canes have managed to limit their opponents scoring opportunities to a certain extent, however, allowing just 51, 59, 54 and 57 FG attempts over their last four games. That type of discipline defensively would undoubtedly serve them well in an underdog role against the Tar Heels here. Take the under (10*). |
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02-12-23 | Chiefs v. Eagles UNDER 51 | 38-35 | Loss | -110 | 124 h 16 m | Show | |
My selection is on the first half 'under' between Kansas City and Philadelphia at 6:30 pm et on Sunday. We won with the first half 'under' in last year's Super Bowl and while the match up is of course much different this time around, featuring the high-profile offenses of the Chiefs and Eagles, I actually believe that serves to provide us value with the 'under' once again. Here, we'll note that the 'under' is 24-10 in the first half in the Chiefs last 34 games following a bye week, with that situation producing an average total of just 20.6 points. Meanwhile, the 'under' is 25-10 in the first half in the Eagles last 35 games after a bye week, leading to an average total of only 20.2 points in that spot. Simply by nature of today's NFL, I don't think either of these defenses are getting enough attention or respect. Most of the talk in the two weeks leading up to this game surrounds Patrick Mahomes and Jalen Hurts, perhaps rightfully so. However, the two defenses have proven their worth time and time again this season and certainly in the playoffs. In fact, the Chiefs enter this game having given up a grand total of just 19 first half points in their last three games. The Eagles have been even better in that respect, allowing only seven first half points in their last three contests. Take the first half under (8*). |
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02-12-23 | Quinnipiac v. Canisius OVER 144.5 | 65-85 | Win | 100 | 5 h 60 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'over' between Quinnipiac and Canisius at 1 pm et on Sunday. The first meeting between these two teams this season totalled a whopping 169 points and while we're working with a slightly higher posted total in this rematch, I believe it will still prove too low. Quinnipiac has gotten off 60 or more field goal attempts in six of its last seven games overall and it should be able to make the most of those scoring opportunities here noting that Canisius' opponents have been 'filling it up', making good on 33, 30, 25, 26 and 33 field goals over its last six contests. The Golden Griffins are coming off a poor offensive showing in a blowout loss to Iona on Friday as they knocked down only 20-of-53 field goal attempts. Prior to that they had gotten off more than 60 FG attempts in four straight games, making good on 25 or more field goals in all four of those contests. Quinnipiac has allowed 26 or more made field goals in five of its last six contests - the only opponent it held down over that stretch was Fairfield, one of, if not the worst offensive team in the MAAC. Take the over (8*). |
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02-11-23 | Colorado v. Utah UNDER 137 | Top | 62-73 | Win | 100 | 15 h 42 m | Show |
Pac-12 Total of the Month. My selection is on the 'under' between Colorado and Utah at 10 pm et on Saturday. We won with Colorado in its most recent game as it shot the lights out in the second half in an eventual blowout win over Stanford last Sunday. The Buffaloes aren't exactly known for their offense, noting they rank 141st in the country in adjusted offensive efficiency this season according to KenPom. Prior to last Sunday's breakout performance, Colorado had been held to 24 or fewer made field goals in seven of its previous eight games. The going won't be easy on the road against a Utah squad that ranks a respectable 30th in the country in adjusted defensive efficiency. Speaking of that metric, Colorado checks in 19th in the nation in adjusted defensive efficiency. The Buffaloes have limited six straight opponents to 57 or fewer field goal attempts with only three of those opponents getting north of 50. Utah, like Colorado, has been inconsistent offensively. It could only connect on 21-of-57 field goal attempts against a bad California defense last time out. The Utes have been held to 22 or fewer made field goals in three of their last four games with 25 being their high-water mark over that stretch. Both meetings between these two teams last season were surprisingly high-scoring, getting into the 150's despite closing totals in the high-130's. I believe those results are helping play a factor in keeping this total a little higher than it should be on Saturday. Take the under (10*). |
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02-11-23 | Nuggets v. Hornets OVER 235.5 | 119-105 | Loss | -110 | 10 h 19 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'over' between Denver and Charlotte at 7:10 pm et on Saturday. I'm anticipating a track meet as the Nuggets lick their wounds following a loss in Orlando two nights ago and head to Charlotte, where they'll face a reeling Hornets squad on the second of back-to-backs. The Hornets have lost six straight games, with the 'under' going 5-1 over that stretch. We've certainly seen signs of life from Charlotte offensively, however, noting that it has knocked down exactly 45 field goals in two of its last three games. The Hornets are certainly pushing the pace, hoisting up 90 or more field goal attempts in five of their last six contests. I'm confident we'll see them find offensive success here, noting that the Nuggets have allowed 40 or more made field goals in seven straight games and 47+ in two of their last three contests. Offensively, Denver has been inconsistent, largely due to key contributors in and out of the lineup due to 'load management' and otherwise. Here, we find the Nuggets coming off an off day and well-positioned to feast against a non-existent Hornets defense that has allowed seven consecutive opponents to knock down more than 40 field goals. Just last night, the Hornets held the Celtics to 89 field goal attempts but still allowed a whopping 127 points. In fact, Charlotte has given up 114 or more points in seven straight games. The first meeting between these two teams this season reached 'only' 234 total points but that was a situation where Denver was able to 'manage' the game as a -9-point home favorite. Here, I expect the Nuggets to be far more aggressive from the opening tip to the final buzzer in what sets up as a high-scoring affair in Charlotte. Take the over (8*). |
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02-11-23 | Rangers v. Hurricanes UNDER 6.5 | 6-2 | Loss | -125 | 11 h 17 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'under' between New York and Carolina at 7:05 pm et on Saturday. We missed with the 'under' in the Rangers high-scoring victory over the Kraken last night but I won't hesitate to go back to the well with the same play here. New York has now seen a season-high three straight games go 'over' the total, which is affording us a fairly generous total on Saturday in Carolina. Note that the 'under' is 21-10 with the Rangers playing on the road after scoring four goals or more in a home victory over the last two seasons, as is the case here, leading to an average total of 5.5 goals in that spot. Meanwhile, the Hurricanes will be playing for the first time in 10 days following an extended All-Star break. The 'under' is 29-17 with the Canes playing on home ice off a win over the last two seasons, which is the situation here, resulting in an average total of 5.4 goals. Finally, we'll note that the Rangers give up just 2.3 goals per game on the road this season while the Canes have held the opposition to 2.7 goals per contest at home. Expect goals to come at a premium on Saturday night in Raleigh. Take the under (8*). |
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02-10-23 | Thunder v. Blazers OVER 241.5 | Top | 138-129 | Win | 100 | 12 h 18 m | Show |
Western Conference Total of the Week. My selection is on the 'over' between Oklahoma City and Portland at 10:10 pm et on Friday. While the number may look sizable at first glance, I'm not sure they can set this total high enough. Opponents have been 'filling it up' against both the Thunder and Blazers lately. Oklahoma City checks in having allowed 45 or more made field goals in four of its last five games. Meanwhile, Portland has seen three straight opponents knock down at least 46 field goals. The good news is, both offenses are humming as well. The Thunder have put up 120 points or more in four of their last seven games and have made good on 56, 44 and 49 field goals over their last three games. They're pushing the pace at every opportunity as well, getting off more than 90 field goal attempts in each of their last five contests. It's a similar story for the Blazers. Apart from a brief lull against the Bucks earlier this week, they've knocked down 40 or more field goals in eight of their last nine games overall. While dealing away Josh Hart leaves a bit of a void offensively, that should only mean more shot attempts for the red hot Damian Lillard. You certainly don't get better defensively after dealing away a guy like Hart. You only have to go back two meetings in this series to see the last time Oklahoma City and Portland combined to put up more than 240 total points and four matchups to find the last time they got into the 260's. Take the over (10*). |
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02-10-23 | Seattle Kraken v. Rangers UNDER 6 | Top | 3-6 | Loss | -100 | 13 h 58 m | Show |
Non-Conference Total of the Year. My selection is on the 'under' between Seattle and New York at 7:05 pm et on Friday. We've seen consecutive Rangers home games go easily 'over' the total since the All-Star break, with New York securing one-goal victories over Calgary and Vancouver earlier this week. Here, I think we're well-positioned for a lower-scoring affair as the Blueshirts host the struggling Kraken. New York has scored nine goals (eight in regulation time) in its last two contests but I'm not sure that type of offensive production is sustainable, noting that it is still averaging just 3.0 goals per game on home ice this season. Save for a six-goal outburst against the Canucks on January 25th, Seattle has had a tough time finding the back of the net lately, held to three goals or less in seven of its last nine games and two goals or less in six of those contests. This doesn't figure to be an ideal breakout spot given the Kraken have scored just six goals in three all-time meetings with the Rangers. In fact, all three previous matchups between these non-conference foes have produced five total goals or fewer including a 3-2 Kraken victory on home ice earlier this season. Note that the 'under' is 15-5 with the Rangers playing at home after scoring three goals or more in three straight games over the last three seasons with that spot producing an average total of just 5.2 goals. The 'under' is also 23-12 with New York playing at home after winning four of its last five contests over the last two seasons, as is the case here, leading to an average total of only 5.3 goals in that situation. Finally, the 'under' has cashed all five times the Rangers have come off consecutive 'over' results this season. Take the under (10*). |
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02-10-23 | Marist v. St. Peter's UNDER 124.5 | Top | 56-67 | Win | 100 | 12 h 29 m | Show |
MAAC Total of the Year. My selection is on the 'under' between Marist and St. Peter's at 7 pm et on Friday. The first meeting between these two teams saw just 118 points scored in a narrow St. Peter's road victory. We're actually dealing with a higher posted total this time around than we saw in that mid-January matchup and it has a lot to do with the fact that both of these teams are coming off consecutive 'over' results. I expect those 'over' streaks to come to a halt on Friday. Marist has been pushing the pace a little more than we've been accustomed to seeing lately but that's been largely game-script dependent as it has often been playing from behind by considerable margins. Note that the Red Foxes check in ranked 336th in the country in adjusted offensive efficiency and 278th in adjusted tempo despite only facing the 341st toughest slate of opponents this season (all according to KenPom). Things won't get any easier here noting that St. Peter's has been effective in severely limiting its opponents scoring opportunities, allowing fewer than 50 field goal attempts in an incredible seven straight games entering Friday's contest. Last time out, the Peacocks simply ran into a hot shooting Rider squad in an 81-62 loss. Prior to allowing the Broncs to knock down 26 field goals in that game, they had held six consecutive foes to 21 or fewer made field goals. It's been another story offensively as St. Peter's continues to struggle. It has topped out at 23 made field goals over its last six games and that came in a contest where it shot better than 52% from the field. The Peacocks rank a miserable 327th in the country in adjusted offensive efficiency and 343rd in adjusted tempo. Going back to that first meeting between these two teams this season, it reached only 118 total points despite the two teams combining to shoot 51 free throws (making 38). Note that on the season, these two squads average just 21-of-30 combined from the charity stripe. Take the under (10*). |
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02-09-23 | UC-Santa Barbara v. Long Beach State OVER 145 | Top | 75-72 | Win | 100 | 16 h 25 m | Show |
Big West Total of the Year. My selection is on the 'over' between Cal-Santa Barbara and Long Beach State at 11 pm et on Thursday. Santa Barbara plays at one of the slowest paces in the nation yet checks into this game on the heels of four straight 'over' results, including a stunning loss as a double-digit road favorite at Cal State-Fullerton last time out. It's an interesting contrast when it comes to the Gauchos as they play slow but are ultra-efficient offensively. Here, I expect them to get plenty of good looks against a Long Beach State squad that plays at the second-fastest tempo in the country, only ranking behind Alabama in terms of adjusted tempo (according to KenPom). The 49ers enter this game off six straight wins, fortunate that a number of their recent opponents haven't been able to take advantage of their wealth of scoring opportunities. Long Beach State has allowed six of its last seven opponents to get off at least 62 field goal attempts. Last time out, it yielded a whopping 70 FG attempts against Cal-Irvine in a game that reached 181 total points. As I mentioned, the 49ers like to play fast offensively, hoisting up more than 70 FG attempts in four of their last seven contests. They've made good on 28 or more field goals in six of their last seven games overall. Cal-Santa Barbara has faced a slew of weaker Big West squads lately, favored by double-digits in four of its last five games. While the Gauchos are a top-100 team in terms of adjusted defensive efficiency this season (according to KenPom), that has had something to do with the fact they've only faced the 305th most difficult schedule in the country. It's interesting to note that Santa Barbara has been held under 70 points in each of their last three games, matching their longest such streak of the season. A date with Long Beach State should provide ample opportunity to bounce back in what projects as a relatively high-scoring affair. Take the over (10*). |
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02-09-23 | Bucks v. Lakers OVER 239 | 115-106 | Loss | -110 | 13 h 54 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'over' between Milwaukee and Los Angeles at 10 pm et on Thursday. This total is on the rise, and for good reason. The Lakers made a big splash in a three-way trade with the Grizzlies and Timberwolves last night although their reinforcements aren't expected to suit up until Saturday against Golden State. For Thursday, the absence of Russell Westbrook (he's off to Utah) leaves the Lakers in a tougher spot defensively than offensively in my opinion. Westbrook is actually quietly having one of his best defensive seasons even if his offensive performance is brought into question on a regular basis. The Lakers enter this game on a roll offensively having made good on 48, 42, 45 and 49 field goals over their last four games. They should relish the opportunity to push the pace against a Bucks squad that has shown no ability (or interest) in slowing the tempo, allowing 91 or more field goal attempts in five straight games. Of course, the Bucks can score with the best of them. They've knocked down at least 43 field goals in five of their last six games. Here, they'll face a Lakers squad that has allowed 45, 44, 45, 52 and 49 made field goals over their last five games. In the lone previous meeting between these two teams this season we saw a whopping 262 total points scored. While we're dealing with a higher posted total this time around, I believe it's warranted. Take the over (8*). |
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02-08-23 | Wolves v. Jazz OVER 236 | 143-118 | Win | 100 | 11 h 59 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'over' between Minnesota and Utah at 9:10 pm et on Wednesday. I'm anticipating a high-scoring track meet between these Northwest Division rivals on Wednesday night. Minnesota got crushed by Denver last night. The lopsided nature of that contest actually helps the Timberwolves cause here as no starter played more than 20 minutes. Here, we'll note that Minnesota has been the picture of consistency offensively, scoring at least 110 points in 16 straight games entering Wednesday's contest. Utah has been held to 108 and 111 points in suffering consecutive losses over its last two games. I'm not one bit worried about the Jazz offense though. They're just two games removed from a 131-point performance in a home win over the Raptors. They've scored at least 120 points in five of their last nine games. Utah has faced Minnesota only twice at full strength (or close to it) this season and scored 132 and 126 points in those two contests (it was missing both Lauri Markannen and Collin Sexton in the other meeting - a 118-108 loss). I think both teams enter this game knowing they'll need to keep their foot on the gas for four quarters in order to secure a win. Take the over (8*). |
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02-08-23 | Florida v. Alabama OVER 147.5 | Top | 69-97 | Win | 100 | 14 h 39 m | Show |
SEC Total of the Year. My selection is on the 'over' between Florida and Alabama at 9 pm et on Wednesday. Despite playing at the fasted tempo in the country this season (according to KenPom), Alabama has posted just two 'over' results in its last 10 games. Each of the Crimson Tide's last two contests have stayed 'under' the total. That's helped set us up with a very reasonable total on Wednesday as the Tide host the Florida Gators. Florida checks in off a 72-67 loss at Kentucky on Saturday. Both of these teams tend to give up a ton of scoring opportunities with Florida having allowed at least 60 field goal attempts in seven straight and nine of its last 10 games overall. Alabama has yielded more than 60 field goal attempts to its opponents in 16 of its last 18 contests. While both squads rate out well in terms of adjusted defensive efficiency (again according to KenPom), I believe the door is open for both offenses to go off on Wednesday. Florida has been held under 70 points in three straight games entering this contest - its longest such streak of the season. It did show some signs of life offensively last time out, knocking down 23 field goals in a tough spot at Kentucky. After facing a pair of down-trodden squads in Vandy and LSU over its last two games, I believe Alabama could be in for a bit of a 'shock to the system' here, noting that prior to holding those two foes under 20 made field goals, the Crimson Tide had allowed seven of their previous eight opponents to knock down more than 20 field goals. Offensively, Alabama is elite. The Crimson Tide continue to 'fill it up', making good on at least 25 field goals in an incredible 15 of their last 16 games overall. The Gators were locked-in defensively earlier in the campaign but have since sagged in that regard, allowing eight of their last 10 opponents to knock down at least 22 field goals - a number Alabama is sure to eclipse with ease here. The pace will be there, whether this total proves high enough will depend on whether the two teams can make the most of their scoring opportunities. I'm confident they will, noting that last year's lone meeting reached 153 total points despite both teams shooting worse than 43% from the field. Take the over (10*). |
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02-08-23 | Spurs v. Raptors OVER 234 | Top | 98-112 | Loss | -110 | 25 h 0 m | Show |
Non-Conference Total of the Year. My selection is on the 'over' between San Antonio and Toronto at 7:40 pm et on Wednesday. This one has the potential to get ugly fast for the Spurs. However, rather than lay the points with the Raptors, we'll play the 'over' in this spot as I am confident San Antonio can punch back for stretches in this game. The Spurs are the worst defensive team we've seen in the NBA in quite some time. They enter this game in their absolute worst form of the season having allowed six straight and eight of their last nine opponents to knock down at least 46 field goals with five of those foes hitting 50 or more, including their most recent opponent, the Chicago Bulls. On the road this season, they're allowing a ridiculous average of 47 made field goals per game, leading to just north of 125 points per contest. The Raptors enter this game playing fast. They've hoisted up 90 or more field goal attempts in seven of their last eight games. They've made good on 40 or more field goals in 11 straight contests. On the flip side, the Raptors have been doing a good job of slowing their opponents down. I'm just not sure they'll need to given the wealth of scoring opportunities they're likely to have at the offensive end of the floor in this one. Note that Toronto did hold an opponent to fewer than 40 made field goals for the first time in six games on Sunday in Memphis. Of course, that was with the Grizzlies missing a number of key contributors including Ja Morant, not to mention the fact that Memphis got off just 78 field goal attempts in the game (they knocked down 38 of them). Should the pace tick up at all in this one, as I suspect it will, the potential is there for the Spurs to go off offensively. Despite San Antonio's lack of success from a win-loss perspective, it does enter this game having made good on 40 or more field goals in five straight contests and 27 of their last 30 games overall. Note that both of these teams are coming off an off day (two in the case of Toronto) and will also have the day off on Thursday. No reason for either to hold anything back in this one. Take the over (10*). |
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02-07-23 | Louisville v. Pittsburgh OVER 138.5 | Top | 57-91 | Win | 100 | 12 h 54 m | Show |
ACC Total of the Week. My selection is on the 'over' between Louisville and Pittsburgh at 7 pm et on Tuesday. The first meeting between these two teams fizzled this season as Pittsburgh rolled to a 75-54 road win on January 18th. We're working with a lower posted total this time around and I believe it will prove too low. Louisville has shown some signs of life offensively of late, knocking down 25 or more field goals in three of its last four games. The Cardinals had their share of opportunities in that first meeting with Pitt but simply couldn't convert, making good on just 19 field goals. It's not as if Pitt is a defensive juggernaut. The Panthers have allowed 10 of their last 11 opponents to knock down at least 23 field goals. They were fortunate last time out that North Carolina had an off night shooting, as the Tar Heels actually got off a whopping 66 field goal attempts, but could only hit 23 of them. Here, I'm just not convinced we see a peak performance from the Pitt defense against an opponent it has already manhandled this season. On the flip side, the Panthers figure to take advantage of an awful Louisville defense that has seemingly gotten even looser lately, allowing three straight opponents to get off more than 60 FG attempts. Pitt enters this contest having made good on 28, 26 and 25 field goals over its last three games and has hoisted up 55 or more FG attempts in seven of its last eight overall. Take the over (10*). |
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02-06-23 | Green Bay v. Wisc-Milwaukee OVER 142 | Top | 80-79 | Win | 100 | 13 h 48 m | Show |
Horizon League Total of the Year. My selection is on the 'over' between Wisconsin-Green Bay and Wisconsin-Milwaukee at 8 pm et on Monday. The first meeting between these two in-state rivals totalled 148 points back in December. We're dealing with a considerably higher posted total this time around as a result, but I believe it's warranted. Green Bay enters this contest off four straight 'under' results. The Phoenix have shot poorly over that stretch - in fact, they've been held to fewer than 20 made field goals in four straight games, their longest such streak of the season. I do think the pace alone should get them over the hump here, however, noting that Wisconsin-Milwaukee ranks 17th in the country in adjusted tempo according to KenPom. The Panthers have allowed 16 consecutive opponents to knock down more than 20 field goals. Their last game snapped a stretch of nine straight contests in which they allowed 62 or more field goal attempts. Keep in mind, the pitiful Phoenix made good on 23 field goals and scored 67 points in the first meeting between these teams this season. The Panthers were fortunate to secure a 72-69 win over IUPUI last time out. They got off a whopping 69 FG attempts in that contest but could only hit 26 of them. I certainly anticipate them improving on that shooting percentage here, noting that Green Bay ranks a miserable 361st in the nation (that's third-to-last) in adjusted defensive efficiency (also according to KenPom). Take the over (10*). |
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02-06-23 | Duke v. Miami-FL OVER 145.5 | 59-81 | Loss | -110 | 12 h 32 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'over' between Duke and Miami at 7 pm et on Monday. When these two teams last met on January 21st, they combined to score just 134 points. We're dealing with a lower posted total for this rematch and I believe it will prove too low. The pace was certainly there for a much higher-scoring affair in the first meeting. Duke got off 62 field goal attempts while Miami countered with 63. Both teams ended up shooting poorly with the Blue Devils knocking down 25 field goals and the Hurricanes making good on only 22 in a narrow two-point defeat. It's worth noting that Miami has been more efficient offensively while also playing at a slightly faster pace at home compared to on the road this season. The Canes enter this contest on an offensive tear having knocked down 31, 26, 35 and 26 field goals over their last four games, despite getting off 58 or fewer field goal attempts in three of those tilts. Duke has had little success (or interest) in slowing its opponents' pace lately, allowing 63 or more FG attempts in three of its last five games. Meanwhile, Miami's opponents have been afforded plenty of good looks, knocking down 25 or more field goals in an incredible 10 straight games. Take the over (8*). |
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02-05-23 | Nuggets v. Wolves UNDER 238.5 | Top | 98-128 | Win | 100 | 12 h 37 m | Show |
Division Total of the Month. My selection is on the 'under' between Denver and Minnesota at 7:10 pm et on Sunday. PLEASE NOTE: I released this play in the early morning hours when the total was in the high-230's. With the news of Jokic, Murray and Gordon possibly all sitting for the Nuggets, it has dropped considerably. I do still recommend the play at the current number, albeit with a lower confidence level. We just missed with the 'under' in the Nuggets rout of the Hawks last night but I won't hesitate to go back to the well with the same play as Denver hits the road for a back-to-back spot at Minnesota on Sunday. Last night's game ended a streak of 11 straight games in which the Nuggets held opponents to fewer than 90 field goal attempts. The lopsided nature of that affair against Atlanta certainly contributed to Denver's relatively loose defensive play. 'Fat and happy' off three straight wins, scoring 122 or more points in all three contests, I'm not convinced we'll see a peak offensive performance from Denver again on Sunday. Minnesota will certainly be focused on tightening things up defensively after allowing Orlando to go off for 127 points in an 'upset' home loss on Friday. Prior to that contest, the Timberwolves had seen seven straight games stay 'under' the total and the 'under' remains 18-13 in their home games this season. Take the under (10*). |
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02-04-23 | Hawks v. Nuggets UNDER 234.5 | Top | 108-128 | Loss | -110 | 13 h 44 m | Show |
Non-Conference Total of the Week. My selection is on the 'under' between Atlanta and Denver at 9:10 pm et on Saturday. The Hawks are in a tough spot here, playing the second of back-to-backs and for the third time in the last four nights (in three different cities) as they continue their road trip in the high altitude of Denver on Saturday. Atlanta has been shooting the lights out, knocking down 44 or more field goals in five straight games. It also got off more than 90 field goal attempts in four of those five contests, however, a number I believe it will have a tough time approaching here. The Nuggets check in having held 11 straight opponents to fewer than 90 field goal attempts. They certainly haven't been at their best defensively during their current 3-0 'over' streak, allowing 46, 42 and 43 made field goals but again, I like the spot they catch the Hawks in here. While Atlanta is known for being extremely vulnerable defensively, the addition of Dejounte Murray has certainly helped its cause in that regard this season. The Hawks enter this contest having held eight of their last 11 opponents to fewer than 90 FG attempts. In the back half of their last six back-to-back situations, they've limited their foes to 89, 87, 83, 83, 86 and 83 FG attempts with the 'under' going 4-2 along the way (only one of those games went 'over' the total we're working with tonight). In the first meeting between these two teams this season both sides actually shot exceptionally well (Denver was 45-of-85 and Atlanta was 49-of-88) yet that game still totalled 'only' 226 points. Take the under (10*). |
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02-04-23 | Syracuse v. Boston College OVER 138.5 | 77-68 | Win | 100 | 9 h 28 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'over' between Syracuse and Boston College at 5 pm et on Saturday. Both of these teams are coming off 'under' results earlier in the week. I expect a different story to unfold on Saturday as they do battle in a rematch of a New Year's Eve game that reached 144 total points. Syracuse enters this game shooting well, having knocked down 30, 28, 29, 31, 29, 23 and 24 field goals in its last seven games. The two outliers - coming in its last two contests - came in games where the Orange were held to fewer than 50 field goal attempts. I don't see this game being played at such a snail's pace, however. Note that the Orange have allowed six of their last seven opponents to get off at least 58 field goal attempts. Boston College yields an average of 59 FG attempts to its opponents here in Chestnut Hill this season. Syracuse isn't an awful defensive team by any means but you would have to go all the way back to December 10th (against an awful Georgetown team) to find the last time it held an opponent to fewer than 23 made field goals. Of the Orange's last seven opponents, six have knocked down at least 25 field goals. It's a similar story for Boston College. The Eagles were fortunate that Clemson couldn't hit its shots last time out, connecting on only 16-of-52 FG attempts in a 62-54 Boston College victory. Prior to that, the Eagles had allowed five of their last six opponents to make good on at least 26 field goals with three of those foes connecting on 30 or more. Offensively, the Eagles are anything but a juggernaut but they're playing some of their best basketball right now and I do think they can give Syracuse a run here and that should lend itself to a relatively high-scoring affair, given what I outlined regarding the Orange defense earlier. Take the over (8*). |
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02-04-23 | Wake Forest v. Notre Dame OVER 148.5 | Top | 81-64 | Loss | -110 | 6 h 46 m | Show |
ACC Total of the Month. My selection is on the 'over' between Wake Forest and Notre Dame at 1 pm et on Saturday. Wake Forest has incredibly seen each of its last 12 games go 'over' the total and I expect that streak to last for at least one more game as the Demon Deacons head to South Bend to face the Irish on Saturday afternoon. Notre Dame has actually posted six consecutive 'over' results itself. The Irish check in ranked a miserable 287th in the country in adjusted defensive efficiency according to KenPom. Facing a Wake Forest squad that ranks 27th in the nation in adjusted offensive efficiency and 93rd in adjusted tempo, not to mention the fact it is coming off four straight losses, doesn't figure to help Notre Dame's cause here. The Irish don't play at a particularly fast pace, but I expect their hand to be forced on Saturday, likely playing from behind for a considerable portion of this contest as a home underdog. You would have to go back 10 games to find the last time Notre Dame limited an opponent to fewer than 25 made field goals. Meanwhile, Wake Forest has gotten off 60 or more field goal attempts in three of its last five contests. It simply didn't make the most of its scoring opportunities last time out against Duke, shooting a miserable 24-of-64 from the field (but still scoring 73 points). I expect it to snap right back here. The Irish have put up more than 70 points in four straight home games though and could be catching the Demon Deacons defense at the right time. In fact, Wake has been a completely different defensive team compared to the first month of the season, yielding 27 or more made field goals in 10 of its last 14 games. Take the over (10*). |
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02-03-23 | Cornell v. Princeton OVER 157 | Top | 82-89 | Win | 100 | 13 h 36 m | Show |
Ivy League Total of the Month. My selection is on the 'over' between Cornell and Princeton at 7 pm et on Friday. I've been waiting for this rematch since Cornell and Princeton combined to score 'only' 143 points in the first meeting of the season back on January 7th. We cashed one of our bigger plays of the season last year with the 'over' in a game between the Big Red and Tigers with that contest totalling 171 points almost a year to the day, on February 4th, 2022. I won't hesitate to go back to the well with the same play here. Note that the first meeting this season was played in Cornell's home gym. That's notable as Princeton plays considerably faster here at home, where it averages two more field goal attempts per game compared to its season average while also giving up three additional FG attempts per contest (also compared to its season average). Cornell figures to take advantage as it is quietly on an incredible shooting run, having knocked down 31, 30 and 32 field goals over its last three contests. Unfortunately, the Big Red have also been very forgiving defensively, yielding 30, 28, 32 and 27 made field goals over their last four games. Princeton got off 62 field goal attempts last time out against Harvard, but could only knock down 26 of them. I certainly expect it to bounce back in that regard here. Like Cornell, Princeton has struggled to contain opposing offenses, allowing 24, 28, 21, 34 and 35 made field goals over its last five contests. Take the over (10*). |
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02-02-23 | Warriors v. Nuggets OVER 232.5 | Top | 117-134 | Win | 100 | 13 h 12 m | Show |
Western Conference Total of the Month. My selection is on the 'over' between Golden State and Denver at 9:10 pm et on Thursday. There's little chance we see the likes of Klay Thompson, Steph Curry and Andrew Wiggins in this game and that leads to the total sitting in a very reasonable range. Remember, the last time the Warriors rested their stars, they still scored 120 points in an upset win over a good Cavs team in Cleveland earlier this month. There's a good chance we see the Nuggets offense absolutely go off in this one. Denver is in fine form offensively after knocking down 44 and 43 field goals over its last two games, scoring 119 and 122 points in the process. Keep in mind, those were relatively slow-paced affairs. Here, the Nuggets will face a Warriors squad that has allowed 101, 93 and 95 field goal attempts in regulation time over their last three games. Incredibly, nine straight Golden State opponents have knocked down at least 42 field goals in regulation time. You would have to go back 16 games, all the way to December 28th, to find the last time the Warriors held an opponent to fewer than 40 made field goals. As I mentioned, Golden State is likely to give a number of its key contributors the night off, probably not the worst thing after Thompson and Curry combined to shoot 11-for-34 in last night's overtime loss in Minnesota (we won with the Timberwolves in that game). That game did manage to stay 'under' the total, which is notable as the Warriors haven't posted consecutive 'under' results since a four-game streak from December 25th to 30th. Take the over (10*). |
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01-29-23 | Pelicans v. Bucks UNDER 235 | 110-135 | Loss | -110 | 12 h 42 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'under' between New Orleans and Milwaukee at 8:10 pm et on Sunday. The Pelicans enter this game on the heels of four consecutive 'under' results, not to mention seven straight losses. Based on the way they're playing right now, I think it's tough for any of their games to get well into the 230's. Note that New Orleans has held five straight opponents to 88 or fewer field goal attempts. You would have to go back six games to find the last time one of its opponents knocked down more than 40 field goals as well. The Bucks shot the lights out against Indiana on Friday, not surprising as the Pacers are down bad with stopper Tyrese Haliburton out of the lineup. Milwaukee has gotten into the 90's in terms of field goal attempts three times in its last eight games. Two of those games came against the aforementioned Pacers and the other was against the Pistons. Here, I expect the Pelicans to offer more resistance at the very least. From an offensive standpoint, New Orleans has been held to fewer than 40 made field goals in four straight and six of its last seven games overall. They've gotten more than 90 field goal attempts only twice in their last nine contests and scored just 110 and 103 points in those two affairs. Here, we'll note that the 'under' is a perfect 8-0 with the Pelicans playing on the road off three or more consecutive losses over the last two seasons, leading to an average total of just 203.8 points in that situation. Take the under (8*). |
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01-29-23 | Bengals v. Chiefs OVER 47.5 | Top | 20-23 | Loss | -110 | 53 h 46 m | Show |
Playoff Total of the Year. My selection is on the 'over' between Cincinnati and Kansas City at 6:30 pm et on Sunday. Both of last weekend's AFC Divisional Round matchups ended up fizzling from a point-scoring perspective, leading to a pair of 'under' results. I expect a different story to unfold this Sunday as the Bengals and Chiefs do battle in a rematch of last year's AFC Championship Game. While the Bengals ran the football at will in last Sunday's landslide win over the Bills in snowy Buffalo, I expect nothing of the sort against a stout Chiefs run defense here. Cincinnati's path to victory here undoubtedly involves throwing the football at will and doing so in all areas of the field. The Bengals pass protection issues were non-existent last Sunday but will likely play more of a factor here. While one might think that would lead to a lower ceiling for this Bengals offense, I'm not convinced that will be the case. Joe Burrow has routinely carved up the Chiefs defense in three previous matchups between these two teams and I'm confident in Cincinnati's ability to scheme up an offensive gameplan that puts the ball into the hands of its playmakers like Joe Mixon, Tee Higgins and Ja'Marr Chase. On the flip side, the Chiefs offense also has an apparent low ceiling with QB Patrick Mahomes dealing with a high ankle sprain that looked awfully severe in last Saturday's gutsy win over the Jaguars. With that being said, Mahomes is operating behind a Chiefs offensive line that is only overshadowed by the Eagles in that department as far as teams remaining in the playoffs go. Similarly to the Bengals, I believe the Chiefs best chance at advancing to the Super Bowl comes by putting the ball in the air, again in all areas of the field with guys like do-everything RB Jerick McKinnon and all-universe TE Travis Kelce pacing the offense. The three previous meetings between the Bengals and Chiefs going back to last season have produced 65, 51 and 51 total points. We're working with a reasonably low total here, largely due to the injury to Mahomes and the cluster of injuries on the Bengals offensive line. I believe it will prove too low. Take the over (10*). |
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01-28-23 | Golden Knights v. Islanders OVER 6 | 1-2 | Loss | -100 | 12 h 44 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'over' between Vegas and New York at 7:35 pm et on Saturday. Both of these teams were involved in relatively low-scoring affairs last night with the Golden Knights dropping a 4-1 decision to the Rangers in Manhattan and the Islanders skating to a 2-0 win over the Red Wings here on Long Island. I expect a much higher-scoring game to play out as the two teams match up on Saturday. Note that the 'over' is 10-2 with the Knights seeking revenge for a loss by three goals or more against an opponent over the last two seasons with that situation producing an average total of 7.3 goals (the Isles defeated the Knights 5-2 in Las Vegas earlier this season). The 'over' has gone 11-3 with the Islanders having lost four of their last five games over the last two seasons, leading to an average total of 6.6 goals in that spot. The last time these two teams met on Long Island last season, they combined to score seven goals. I expect more of the same here. Take the over (8*). |
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01-28-23 | Canadiens v. Senators UNDER 6.5 | 0-5 | Win | 100 | 11 h 27 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'under' between Montreal and Ottawa at 7:05 pm et on Saturday. The Senators exploded for six goals in an upset win over the Maple Leafs in Toronto last night. Keep in mind, they had been held to a grand total of four goals over their previous three contests. They haven't posted consecutive 'over' results since January 12th and 14th. Montreal is coming off a high-scoring game of its own as it fell by a 4-3 score in overtime against Detroit on Thursday (we won with the 'over' in that game). We can expect them to go back to Sam Montembault between the pipes on Saturday and that should bode well as he's posted a .912 save percentage over his last four starts with the 'under' going 2-1-1 in those four contests. Here, we'll note that the 'under' is a long-term 37-17 with the Canadiens playing on the road off consecutive home losses. The 'under' has also gone 23-13 with the Senators playing at home against a division opponent over the last two seasons. Take the under (8*). |
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01-28-23 | Nuggets v. 76ers UNDER 231.5 | 119-126 | Loss | -110 | 7 h 32 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'under' between Denver and Philadelphia at 3:10 pm et on Saturday. The 76ers have been on an incredible run of 'over' results over the last month-plus but I'm not sure it's sustainable. Note that Philadelphia has now held five straight opponents to 87 or fewer field goal attempts. Last time out, the 76ers limited the Nets to only 76 field goal attempts but Brooklyn shot the lights out and the result was a game that totalled a ridiculous 270 points. Philadelphia is just one game removed from knocking down 49 field goals in a win over the defensively-challenged Kings in Sacramento. Apart from that, the Sixers have been held to 43 or fewer made field goals in six of their last seven games and 40 or less on three occasions over that stretch. The Nuggets have reeled off three straight 'under' results, most recently resting a number of starters in a tight game in Milwaukee. Denver has now held eight consecutive opponents to fewer than 90 field goal attempts. You would have to go back five games to find the last time the Nuggets allowed an opponent to knock down more than 40 field goals. On the flip side, Denver is suddenly laboring offensively, making good on just 36, 39 and 38 field goals over its last three contests. The Nuggets did hoist up 97 FG attempts in that loss in Milwaukee on Wednesday but that was largely due to the fact they were missing the production of Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray, forcing them to push the pace in an effort to keep up with the Bucks. That marked the first time in nine games Denver had gotten off 90+ FG attempts. Take the under (8*). |
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01-28-23 | Texas Tech v. LSU OVER 132 | Top | 76-68 | Win | 100 | 6 h 42 m | Show |
Non-Conference Total of the Month. My selection is on the 'over' between Texas Tech and LSU at 2 pm et on Saturday. We'll go the contrarian route with this play as LSU checks in off a deplorable 14-made field goal performance in a 60-40 loss to Arkansas last time out while Texas Tech reaches Baton Rouge off consecutive 'under' results. I wouldn't categorize either of these defenses as elite, or anything remotely close. Yet the Red Raiders have held their last two opponents to just 20 and 19 made field goals. Keep in mind, they still lost both of those games by double-digits, allowing 68 and 76 points against Kansas State and West Virginia, respectively. After facing a very difficult slate of opponents in SEC play, the Tigers will likely be happy to face a Big 12 opponent in Texas Tech on Saturday. While LSU's offense has been a big part of the problem lately, it has also allowed its last four opponents to knock down 35, 26, 29 and 23 field goals. The pace has been there but Texas Tech just hasn't been able to make its shots lately, noting that it is just one game removed from hoisting up a whopping 71 field goal attempts against Kansas State. Here, I do expect the Red Raiders to put it together offensively and help this one sail 'over' the reasonably low total. Finally, I'll note that these two teams produced 147 total points (with a closing total of 143.5) the last time they met in 2021. Take the over (10*). |
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01-27-23 | Golden Knights v. Rangers OVER 6 | 1-4 | Loss | -100 | 8 h 9 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'over' between Vegas and New York at 7:05 pm et on Friday. I like the way this one sets up as a higher scoring contest than most are expecting on Friday in Manhattan. The Golden Knights check in off consecutive losses to open their current road trip. In those two games they could muster only three goals against the Coyotes and Devils. Still, this is a team that averages an impressive 3.7 goals per game on the road this season, where it has posted a 15-7 record. The Rangers took the first meeting between these two teams this season by a 5-1 score in Las Vegas back in early December. That's notable as the 'over' has gone a perfect 6-0 with Vegas seeking revenge for a home loss by two goals or more over the last two seasons, resulting in an average total of 7.4 goals in that situation. The 'over' is also a long-term 17-6 with the Golden Knights having lost six or seven of their last eight games, as is the case here, leading to 7.1 total goals on average in that spot. The Rangers held a 2-1 lead until the final five minutes of the third period in Toronto two nights ago but ultimately gave up the tying goal and then the winner in overtime in a 3-2 setback. Here, we'll note that the 'over' is 15-6 with the Rangers returning home off a road loss over the last three seasons, good for an average total of 7.0 goals scored in that situation. New York knows it can't just sit on a lead again the way it did in Toronto two nights ago. Expect a more aggressive gameplan from the Blueshirts as they look to head into an extended All-Star break on a high note. Take the over (8*). |
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01-26-23 | UCLA v. USC OVER 130 | 64-77 | Win | 100 | 23 h 26 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'over' between UCLA and USC at 9 pm et on Thursday. The first meeting between these Los Angeles rivals resulted in a low-scoring 60-58 UCLA victory back on January 5th. I expect a higher-scoring affair in Thursday's rematch as we're dealing with a reasonably low total, largely due to the recent run of 'unders' both teams have been on. It's only a matter of time before the Bruins enjoy an offensive explosion in my opinion. I believe we might just see that 'slingshot' effect in this matchup on Thursday. Note that UCLA has gotten off 60 or more field goal attempts in three of its last four games. Here, it faces a vulnerable USC defense that has had little success (or interest) in slowing its opponents' pace, yielding 24 or more made field goals in four of its last six games and 58 or more field goal attempts in five straight contests. On the flip side, the Trojans can shoot. They've incredible knocked down 24 or more field goals in 11 straight games. The Bruins are one of the best defensive teams in the nation without question but here, against a revenge-minded Trojans squad, I expect them to have their hands full. Take the over (8*). |
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01-26-23 | Cavs v. Rockets OVER 221 | 113-95 | Loss | -113 | 11 h 17 m | Show | |
My selection is on the ‘over’ between Cleveland and Houston at 8:10 pm et on Thursday. The Rockets were involved in a relatively low-scoring game against the Wizards last night. Regardless whether Donovan Mitchell is able to go for the Cavaliers (he re-injured his groin on Tuesday in New York) I still expect Cleveland to go off offensively in this one. The Rockets were fortunate the Wizards couldn’t make the most of their scoring opportunities last night or the result would have been far more lopsided. Houston allowed a whopping 98 field goal attempts in that contest. The Rockets have allowed four of their last five opponents to get off 91 or more field goal attempts. Meanwhile, Cleveland has hoisted up 87 or fewer FG attempts in four straight games. In spite of that it has knocked down 40 or more field goals in each of those four contests. Defensively, the Cavs are terrific but they do face a Rockets squad that has made good on 42 or more field goals in four of its last five games. I do think we see Cleveland suffer a bit of a letdown defensively here after going against Memphis, Golden State, Milwaukee and New York in consecutive games. Take the over (8*). |
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01-26-23 | Red Wings v. Canadiens OVER 6 | 4-3 | Win | 100 | 13 h 48 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'over' between Detroit and Montreal at 7:05 pm et on Thursday. The Canadiens sat back and defended, waiting for the Bruins to make a mistake and perhaps open up a scoring opportunity on Tuesday night (they ended up with only 22 shots on goal). The strategy worked well for the first two periods but Montreal ultimately fell by a 4-2 score. Here, I expect the Habs to employ a different strategy against a Red Wings squad that checks in allowing 3.8 goals per game on the road this season. Detroit has been stuck in the mud offensively, scoring three goals or less in six straight games. I do see this as an excellent opportunity to break out against a Montreal team that gives up 3.7 goals per contest on home ice. Yes, the Habs are missing a number of key contributors up front, leaving them in tough offensively but as we saw against the Bruins, guys like Nick Suzuki and Kirby Dach are more than capable of generating scoring chances and here, they'll have the benefit of facing a more beatable goaltender in Ville Husso (.897 save percentage in 11 road games this season) than they saw in standout Bruins netminder Jeremy Swayman two nights ago. Take the over (8*). |
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01-25-23 | Louisville v. Boston College OVER 133.5 | Top | 65-75 | Win | 100 | 14 h 39 m | Show |
ACC Total of the Week. My selection is on the 'over' between Louisville and Boston College at 9 pm et on Wednesday. I like the way this one sets up as a higher-scoring affair than most are expecting on Wednesday night in Chestnut Hill. Louisville is of course mired in a down season having lost 17 of 19 games overall and eight in a row entering Wednesday's contest. We had actually seen a bit of a spark from the Cardinals offensively for a stretch prior to getting held down by a pair of tough opponents in North Carolina and Pittsburgh in their last two games. I'm confident we'll see them do enough to help this total along on Wednesday, however, noting that Boston College has allowed five of its last eight opponents to get off 60 or more field goal attempts with the opposition knocking down 26 or more field goals in three of its last four contests. Offensively, the Eagles have been quietly 'filling it up', making good on 28, 26, 32, 21, 26 and 29 field goals over their last six games. Even in the low-water mark of 21 over that stretch, the Eagles still scored 63 points in a game that totalled 148 points against Wake Forest. Last year's matchup between these two teams was a low-scoring one, reaching only 121 total points. We're dealing with a considerably lower posted total this time around, however, noting that last year's game saw a closing total of 138. Take the over (10*). |
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01-24-23 | Wizards v. Mavs OVER 224.5 | Top | 127-126 | Win | 100 | 10 h 19 m | Show |
Non-Conference Total of the Week. My selection is on the 'over' between Washington and Dallas at 8:40 pm et on Tuesday. I think we see a 'slingshot' effect from the Mavericks offensively after they were held down by the Clippers last time out. In fact, Dallas is coming off consecutive low-scoring, slow-paced games against Miami and Los Angeles. I expect nothing of the sort here as the Mavs host the Wizards on Tuesday. Yes, Washington will be without Kristaps Porzingis and just dealt Rui Hachimura to the Lakers after he poured in 30 points last time out. I still anticipate the Wizards pushing the pace here, noting they've knocked down 42, 42 and 51 field goals over their last three games and have hoisted up 93 or more field goal attempts in three of their last four contests. On the flip side, Washington has had no success (or interest) in slowing its opponents' pace, allowing nine of its last 10 opponents to get off 90 or more field goal attempts. You would have to go back nine games to find the last time the Wiz held an opponent to fewer than 40 made field goals. While Dallas held up well defensively in its last two games, it is still sorely missing the presence of Christian Wood on the inside and the blowout nature of those last two contests likely contributed to keeping the pace down. Note that prior to those two contests, the Mavs had allowed 44, 49, 43 and 49 made field goals over their last four games. Here, we'll note that the 'over' is 22-11 with the Wizards coming off two wins in their last three games over the last two seasons, as is the case here. Meanwhile, the 'over' is 15-7 with Dallas coming off a loss this season, leading to an average total of 231.0 points in that situation. Take the over (10*). |
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01-24-23 | Bruins v. Canadiens OVER 6 | Top | 4-2 | Push | 0 | 11 h 0 m | Show |
Atlantic Division Total of the Month. My selection is on the 'over' between Boston and Montreal at 7:05 pm et on Tuesday. The talk in Montreal these days is more about who's not playing than who is. The Canadiens are as beaten up as any team in the league right now injury-wise, but continue to battle hard, as evidenced by Saturday's come-from-behind 3-2 overtime win over the Maple Leafs. Here, they'll face another tough test at home against the Bruins in what will be the first meeting between these division rivals this season. Boston enters having allowed just two goals over its last four games, all victories. It posted a 4-0 shutout win over the Sharks on Sunday and that's notable as it has gone 4-9, allowing an average of 3.5 goals (good for a total of 6.7 goals) when coming off a shutout win over the last three seasons. Also note that the 'over' is a perfect 6-0 with Boston playing on the road coming off four straight wins by two goals or more over the last three seasons, as is the case here, resulting in an average total of 7.5 goals in that spot. The Bruins saw Canadiens goaltender Sam Montembault twice last season, scoring four goals on him on each occasion (they added an empty-netter for good measure in both games as well). Take the over (10*). |
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01-23-23 | Kansas v. Baylor UNDER 149.5 | Top | 69-75 | Win | 100 | 14 h 41 m | Show |
Big 12 Total of the Week. My selection is on the 'under' between Kansas and Baylor at 9 pm et on Monday. These two teams enjoyed far different results on Saturday as Kansas was embarrassed in a 23-point home loss against TCU while Baylor eked out a 62-60 road win over Oklahoma. Noting that the 'under' is a perfect 6-0 with Kansas coming off consecutive games in which it allowed 75 points or more over the last three seasons, as is the case here, leading to an average total of only 132.3 points, we'll confidently back the 'under' in a series that has generally been lower-scoring than most have expected over the years. Baylor got off to an 0-3 start in conference play, marked by a couple of high-scoring defeats at the hands of TCU and Kansas State, at home no less. Since then, we've seen the Bears lock in defensively, allowing 23, 23, 27 and 26 made field goals and no more than 60 field goal attempts over their last four games. For Kansas, it is in a clear bounce-back spot here after getting lit up for 31 made field goals against TCU on Saturday. Poor defensive efforts don't pop up often when it comes to the Bill Self-coached Jayhawks and I'm confident we'll see them respond positively in that department on Monday. Prior to Saturday's game, Kansas had held an incredible 15 of its first 18 opponents this season to 25 or fewer made field goals. Take the under (10*). |
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01-22-23 | Jets v. Flyers OVER 6.5 | 5-3 | Win | 107 | 10 h 16 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'over' between Winnipeg and Philadelphia at 7:05 pm et on Sunday. We saw a bit of a 'slingshot' effect from the Jets offensively last night as they rebounded after being held to a single goal in consecutive games (both losses) in Montreal and Toronto with a five-goal outburst in Ottawa last night. I expect a similar situation to unfold regarding the Flyers here after they were limited to just three goals in their last two contests against the Blackhawks and Red Wings. Note that Philadelphia is averaging 2.9 goals per game on home ice this season and is likely to catch Jets backup goaltender David Rittich on Sunday, noting that he represents a considerable drop-off in talent from regular starter Connor Hellebuyck, who is a Vezina Trophy candidate (and former winner). Likewise, the Jets will likely see the Flyers backup goaltender Felix Sandstrom after Carter Hart started last night's game. Sandstrom owns a less-than-impressive .888 save percentage in eight games this season. Here, we'll note that the 'over' is 7-1 with the Flyers coming off consecutive 'under' results this season, as is the case here, leading to an average total of 7.7 goals in that spot. The 'under' is also 18-8 with Philadelphia coming off a game that totalled three goals or less over the last three seasons, resulting in an average total of 6.9 goals in that situation. Take the over (8*). |
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01-22-23 | Cowboys v. 49ers OVER 46 | 12-19 | Loss | -110 | 58 h 39 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'over' between Dallas and San Francisco at 6:30 pm et on Sunday. 'Over' bettors were thwarted by four Brett Maher missed extra points in Tampa on Monday, myself included, but I don't expect this total to fall anywhere close to being in that 'danger zone' on Sunday. Both of these offenses are loaded, that much we know. While this is a more difficult matchup for the Cowboys offense than they faced against the under-achieving Buccaneers defense on Monday, there is a path to success for Dallas should it choose to attack the 49ers through the air. In a game where the potential is certainly there for the Cowboys to be playing from behind much of the afternoon, I'm expecting a very high pass-rate from Dak Prescott and the offense in this one, to varying success. It's going to be a 'pick-your-poison' type of situation for the Cowboys aggressive defense against a multi-pronged 49ers offense that is absolutely peaking at the right time. Maybe the hype has gotten a little too big around San Francisco's 'Mr. Irrelevant' QB Brock Purdy but I still believe he's the real deal and will orchestrate another strong playoff performance here. He simply has too many weapons at his disposal not to find considerable success. Interestingly, when these two teams met in last year's playoffs, we saw a closing total of 51 points. That's despite what I would consider to be two weaker, and certainly less aggressive and more risk-averse offenses that we'll see take the field this time around. That game ultimately reached only 40 points in what was a disjointed affair (remember the 49ers were comfortable putting the game in the hands of their ground attack and defense with Jimmy Garropolo under center). I expect nothing of the sort here as this has the potential to be one of, if not the most entertaining game of Divisional Weekend. Take the over (8*). |
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01-22-23 | Washington State v. Colorado UNDER 137 | 55-58 | Win | 100 | 10 h 47 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'under' between Washington State and Colorado at 6 pm et on Sunday. Both of these teams are coming off 'over' results on Thursday, snapping a three-game 'under' streak for Washington State and a four-game run of 'unders' for Colorado. Here, I expect a return to normal, so to speak, with a relatively low-scoring affair between the Cougars and Buffaloes. Nothing went right for Washington State last time out as it couldn't generate any sustained offense, nor could it sniff out a stop against Utah (the Utes shot 31-of-56 from the field). I do expect the Cougars to bounce back here, particularly at the defensive end of the floor, where they had held their previous three opponents to 20, 19 and 22 made field goals. It's also worth noting they've limited four of their last five opponents to 56 field goal attempts or fewer. The only occasion where they didn't was largely game-script dependent as they had an up-tempo Arizona squad playing from behind most of the night in a stunning double-digit road victory. Colorado is coming off a poor defensive performance of its own as it allowed Washington to knock down 27-of-50 field goal attempts on Thursday. The Buffaloes made good on 28 field goals themselves, representing a high-water mark since hitting 30 field goals in a narrow loss at Cal on New Year's Eve. Prior to Thursday's poor performance, Colorado had held its last two Pac-12 opponents to just 14 and 18 made field goals and 41 and 42 points here on its home floor. Take the under (8*). |
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01-21-23 | Giants v. Eagles UNDER 48 | Top | 7-38 | Win | 100 | 36 h 35 m | Show |
Divisional Round Total of the Year. My selection is on the 'under' between New York and Philadelphia at 8:15 pm et on Saturday. I like the way this one sets up as a lower-scoring affair than most are expecting on Saturday night in Philadelphia. The first meeting between these two teams was a blowout victory in favor of the Eagles, 48-22 in New York back in early December. The rematch wasn't all that notable as the Giants rested their starters in a much lower-scoring defeat. Here, I think we're in line for something in between with the total quite simply proving too high. On a positive note for the Giants, they'll have standout CB Adoree' Jackson on the field for this the third meeting between these two teams this season. Jackson obviously played a big role in last week's 'upset' win in Minnesota, helping stamp out Justin Jefferson's big-play potential. He'll look to do the same against Eagles WR A.J. Brown on Saturday, likely to mixed results. There's no denying the Giants are playing well up front with Kayvon Thibodeaux getting better as the season has gone on. On the flip side, the Eagles boast perhaps the league's best defensive front and should give the Giants offensive line fits all night long. Giants QB Daniel Jones was able to get loose on numerous occasions against the Vikings last week and found plenty of success through the air, just as he did in the teams' regular season matchup. This is a much different challenge, however, and I don't anticipate Jones being afforded a lot of time in the pocket, nor do I expect New York's lukewarm wide receiving corps to enjoy much open field. There is a path for the Giants offense to stay on the field and effectively shorten this game by picking their spots to run with Jones and also work the slot in Avonte Maddox's absence for the Eagles. I'm just not convinced we'll see the Giants end many drives with 7's on the board. We've certainly seen the Eagles jump ahead and then take the air out of the football at times this season. They have that type of offense that can control the football for long periods and I'm confident we'll see that as this game wears on. Running the football figures to be a key part of the Eagles offensive gameplan on Saturday after RB Miles Sanders picked up 155 yards and a pair of scores against the Giants earlier this season. New York can take some solace in the fact that it did effectively stamp out the Vikings ground attack last Sunday, albeit in a much different game script than they're likely to see on Saturday. The first meeting between these two teams this season was the only meaningful one - as I mentioned the Giants rested their starters in the Week 18 rematch. That game saw a closing total of just 44.5 points. Of course, it also featured 70 actual points. I don't think we're in for another high-scoring affair here, however, as the Giants have done enough to instill confidence defensively and the return of Jackson has given them a boost against the pass. Note that since that 48-22 loss to the Eagles on December 11th, the Giants have given up 12, 27, 10, 22 and 24 points. Take the under (10*). |
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01-19-23 | UCLA v. Arizona State OVER 135 | Top | 74-62 | Win | 100 | 14 h 45 m | Show |
Pac-12 Total of the Year. My selection is on the 'over' between UCLA and Arizona State at 10:30 pm et on Thursday. The 'under' has cashed in each of UCLA's last seven games but I look for that streak to come to an end on Thursday as the Bruins hit the road for the first time since New Year's Day to face Arizona State in Tempe. UCLA absolutely manhandled Utah and Colorado in its last two games, holding those two opponents to just 18 and 15 made field goals, respectively. It faces a much different challenge on the road here, however, noting that Arizona State has knocked down 25, 31, 29, 33 and 24 field goals since the return of Pac-12 play on New Year's Eve. With that being said, the Sun Devils are in bounce-back mode here in some sense after getting off only 49 field goal attempts in a bit of a sloppy affair against Oregon State last time out (they still scored 74 points in that contest). We know Arizona State will be looking to push the pace here, noting that it has hoisted up 62 or more field goal attempts in seven of its last nine games. Defensively, the Sun Devils are likely to have their hands full here. They've allowed 27, 24, 25, and 24 made field goals over their last four games and have had little success (or interest) in slowing down their opponents' tempo this season. UCLA didn't shoot particularly well against Colorado last time out, knocking down only 38.1% of its attempts from the field. That's notable as the last two times it was held under 40% shooting in Pac-12 play, it responded by making good on exactly 29 field goals in its next contest. The Bruins are averaging 30 made field goals and 76.7 points per game this season with no considerable drop-off in production away from home, where they've hit 29 field goals per game (on one fewer attempt compared to their season average) while averaging 73.7 points per contest. The most recent meeting between these two teams totalled only 118 points last February, however prior to that each of the last 12 matchups in the series produced at least 143 total points. Take the over (10*). |
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01-18-23 | Oklahoma v. Oklahoma State UNDER 128.5 | Top | 56-72 | Win | 100 | 11 h 59 m | Show |
Big 12 Total of the Year. My selection is on the 'under' between Oklahoma and Oklahoma State at 9 pm et on Wednesday. This is obviously a big game for both teams but it's desperation time for Oklahoma State as it comes off three consecutive Big 12 defeats. Of note for our purposes, the Cowboys have seen each of their last seven games go 'under' the total. Oklahoma State lacks a true go-to scorer and it shows as it has been held to 67, 67, 46, 57 and 58 points in Big 12 play. The Cowboys tried to push the pace in their last two games, getting off 66 and 60 field goal attempts but only managed to knock down 22 and 23 of those shots against Kansas State and Baylor, respectively. Here, they'll face a good Oklahoma defense that's coming off a bad game. The Sooners allowed West Virginia to make good on 31-of-55 field goals in their most recent contest, allowing 76 points in a narrow one-point victory. Note that prior to that, they had held four of their last five opponents to 22 or fewer made field goals. Oklahoma has one of the more underrated offensive players in the country in former Nevada standout Grant Sherfield. It will be in tough here, however, noting that Oklahoma State has allowed an average of just 20 made field goals per contest at home this season and has held eight of its last 11 opponents to 21 or fewer in that department. The fact that the Cowboys allowed 74 points last time out is notable as they've given up 56, 51 and 49 points on three previous occasions after allowing more than 70 points in a game this season. Take the under (10*). |
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01-18-23 | Wizards v. Knicks UNDER 222 | Top | 116-105 | Win | 100 | 12 h 4 m | Show |
Conference Total of the Week. My selection is on the 'under' between Washington and New York at 7:40 pm et on Wednesday. While both of these teams are coming off 'over' results on Monday, it's still been a bit of a grind offensively of late. Monday's game marked the first time in three contests the Wizards managed to knock down more than 38 field goals. Playing against the Warriors - a team that often plays at a break-neck pace - certainly helped their cause. All told, Washington has topped out at 42 field goals or less in six straight games, yet the 'over' has inexplicably gone 5-1 over that stretch. I do expect things to level out in that regard, at least in the short-term. The Knicks have knocked down 42 or fewer field goals in six consecutive games as well, and only got to that number thanks to overtime last time out against Toronto. New York has quietly been locked-in defensively, limiting seven of its last nine opponents to fewer than 40 made field goals. It held this same Washington squad to 36-of-92 shooting just last week. While last week's matchup did find its way 'over' the total, it didn't eclipse the number we're dealing with tonight (at the time of writing). It's worth noting that we haven't seen consecutive 'over' results in this series since back in 2018 - that goes back a whopping 17 matchups. Take the under (10*). |
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01-18-23 | Bruins v. Islanders UNDER 5.5 | Top | 4-1 | Win | 105 | 11 h 26 m | Show |
Eastern Conference Total of the Year. My selection is on the 'under' between Boston and New York at 7:35 pm et on Wednesday. The Bruins exploded for six goals in Monday's easy shutout win over the Flyers. I do expect them to find the going a little tougher on Wednesday as they travel to Long Island, where they've scored a grand total of 12 goals in their last nine trips. New York is coming off a 4-3 overtime loss against Washington on Monday (we won with the Capitals in that game), blowing a 3-0 lead in that contest. The Isles are still giving up just 2.3 goals per game on home ice this season and the 'under' is a perfect 6-0 when they play at home off a loss against a division opponent over the last two seasons, resulting in an average total of only 3.8 goals in that spot. The 'under' is also 20-9 with New York at home off a loss in which it allowed four goals or more over the last three seasons, leading to an average total of 4.8 goals in that situation. In the lone previous meeting between these two teams this season Boston won 4-3 in a shootout. It's worth noting that Jake Debrusk scored two goals and added an assist for the B's in that victory. He's currently sidelined with a leg injury. Take the under (10*). |
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01-17-23 | Clemson v. Wake Forest OVER 147 | Top | 77-87 | Win | 100 | 12 h 16 m | Show |
ACC Total of the Year. My selection is on the 'over' between Clemson and Wake Forest at 9 pm et on Tuesday. I like the way this one sets up as a high-scoring affair between two red hot ACC squads in Clemson and Wake Forest on Tuesday night. The Tigers are fresh off a 72-64 victory over Duke on Saturday - their seventh straight victory. They've been the picture of consistency from an offensive standpoint, knocking down 25 or more field goals in six of their last seven games. While they've done a good job defensively as well, they've shown little ability (or interest) in slowing down their opponents' pace, allowing 63 or more field goal attempts in three of their last five games. That should open the door for a blazing hot Wake Forest offense that has made good on 28, 29, 30 and 34 field goals over its last four contests. You would have to go back seven games to find the last time the Demon Deacons were held to fewer than 77 points. Like Clemson, Wake hasn't put much of a priority on slowing the opposition, yielding an average of 61 field goal attempts per game here at home this season. Prior to Saturday's blowout win over struggling Boston College (in which it allowed just 22 made field goals), Wake had allowed eight straight opponents to knock down 26 or more field goals. Of course, this will be a rematch of a meeting between these two teams back in December. That was a strange affair as Clemson got off only 43 field goal attempts, making good on 22 of them, yet scored 77 points in a 20-point rout. Wake has rounded into form since then and I'm confident we'll see a much more competitive, entertaining affair this time around. Take the over (10*). |
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01-17-23 | Nets v. Spurs UNDER 235 | Top | 98-106 | Win | 100 | 13 h 45 m | Show |
Non-Conference Total of the Month. My selection is on the 'under' between Brooklyn and San Antonio at 8:10 pm et on Tuesday. This Nets team is just not the same without Kevin Durant on the floor. I realize that's a major understatement and fairly obvious to even the most casual NBA observer. But it's worth noting as we work with a total in the mid-230's with the Nets having just come off a winless two-game homestand that saw them struggle mightily from an offensive standpoint, knocking down just 38 and 39 field goals while scoring 98 and 102 points. The Spurs are of course one of, not the league's worst defensive team. With that being said, I do think they're better than they've shown in their last three games, allowing 135, 144 and 132 points against three teams that love to push the pace in the Grizzlies, Warriors and Kings over that stretch. While the Nets offense has regressed without Durant, their defense has held strong, limiting four straight opponents to 41 or fewer made field goals heading into this contest. In fact, the 'under' has cashed in each of their last five games. When these teams last met in Brooklyn on January 2nd, it was no contest as the Nets rolled to a 139-103 victory. Keep in mind, Kevin Durant paced Brooklyn's offense on that night, recording a double-double with 25 points and 11 assists. Here, we'll note that the 'under' is 130-106 with the Spurs playing at home off consecutive ATS losses under head coach Gregg Popovich. Interestingly, the 'under' is 26-12 with Nets head coach Jacque Vaughn's teams playing on the road after losing four or five of their last six games ATS as well. Take the under (10*). |
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01-16-23 | Princeton v. Pennsylvania UNDER 145.5 | 72-60 | Win | 100 | 10 h 21 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'under' between Princeton and Pennsylvania at 7 pm et on Monday. I like the bounce-back spot for both of these teams defensively after both were involved in 'over' results on Saturday. Princeton inexplicably allowed a middle-of-the-road Brown squad to knock down 28-of-53 field goal attempts in a 72-70 loss. That marked the first time in five games the Tigers allowed an opponent to shoot better than 42.1% from the field. Penn dropped a 75-71 decision at Dartmouth, allowing the Big Green to shoot 27-of-58 from the field. While the Quakers have knocked down 26 or more field goals in four straight games, they've also faced a fairly favorable schedule over that stretch, favored in three of those games with the other coming against the fastest-paced team in the Ivy League, Cornell. I think we're in for a tightly-contested, relatively low-scoring affair here, noting that the most recent meeting produced 163 points in a Princeton blowout win last March, but we haven't seen consecutive meetings in this series go 'over' the total since three straight did back in 2017-18. Take the under (8*). |
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01-16-23 | Pacers v. Bucks OVER 228.5 | 119-132 | Win | 100 | 7 h 45 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'over' between Indiana and Milwaukee at 2:40 pm et on Monday. The Bucks have seen the 'under' cash in four straight games entering Monday's matinee affair against the down-trodden Pacers in Milwaukee. The wheels came off for Indiana defensively in Saturday's 130-112 home loss against the Grizzlies. Tyrese Haliburton is of course sidelined indefinitely for the Pacers and that hurts them defensively more than anything else. Indiana has zero answers for the Grizzlies offense on Saturday and will be hard-pressed to bounce back in this tough road matchup against a Bucks team fresh off a two-game sweep at the hands of the Heat in Miami (with Giannis Antetokounmpo set to return from a two-game absence on Monday). We know the Pacers will continue to force the issue offensively, noting they've hoisted up 101 and 103 field goal attempts in their last two games. The Bucks have done little to slow opposing up-tempo offenses this season, entering Monday's contest having yielded 92 or more field goal attempts to eight of their last 10 opponents. Milwaukee has proven to be a much stronger offensive team at home compared to on the road this season, averaging 43-of-90 shooting and just north of 117 points per game on its home floor, with the 'over' cashing at a 14-7 clip. Here, we'll note that the 'over' is 20-8 with the Pacers coming off a loss by 15 or more points over the last three seasons, resulting in an average total of 235.5 points in that spot. Take the over (8*). |
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01-15-23 | Ravens v. Bengals UNDER 40.5 | 17-24 | Loss | -110 | 22 h 23 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'under' between Baltimore and Cincinnati at 8:15 pm et on Sunday. With Tyler Huntley expected back under center, I think the Ravens will be able to better do what they were hoping to do last Sunday and that's churn out long, clock-churning drives while taking care of the football on offense, leaving the rest of the game up to their terrific defense. Baltimore's gameplan effectively got derailed thanks to four turnovers on offense in last week's matchup here in Cincinnati. Throwing the football 40+ times in a game with Anthony Brown at quarterback certainly wasn't 'plan A'. The Bengals offense has been rolling along but there is some reason for pause here. Long a sore spot on an otherwise outstanding offense, the Cincinnati offensive line will be without both La'el Collins and Alex Cappa on the right side. And it's going to be tough for the Bengals to rely on the backfield tandem of Joe Mixon and Semaje Perine to relieve the pressure against a Ravens defense that has been incredibly stout against the run. Note that the 'under' is a perfect 6-0 with the Ravens coming off a game in which they lost the turnover battle by at least two over the last three seasons, as is the case here. That situation has produced an average total of only 31.7 points. Meanwhile, the 'under' is 19-6 with the Bengals coming off consecutive games in which they scored 17 or more first half points going all the way back to 1992, which is also the situation here. Cincinnati hasn't seen consecutive games go 'over' the total since November 6th and 20th (sandwiched around a bye week). Baltimore last posted two straight 'over' results way back in Weeks 2 and 3. I mention that as last Sunday's matchup did find its way 'over' the number. Take the under (8*). |
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01-15-23 | Giants v. Vikings OVER 48 | Top | 31-24 | Win | 100 | 19 h 2 m | Show |
Wild Card Total of the Year. My selection is on the 'over' between New York and Minnesota at 4:40 pm et on Sunday. When these two teams met back on Christmas Eve they combined to score 51 points in a narrow 27-24 Giants victory. While we've seen a minor adjustment to the total in advance of this rematch, I don't believe it will prove to be enough to keep this one 'under' the total. This game once again pits two of the better and more aggressive offensive minds in the NFL today in head coaches Brian Daboll of the Giants and Kevin O'Connell of the Vikings. Over the course of the season, we saw the Giants offense evolve from a run-oriented, risk-averse unit to a far more aggressive, pass-heavy attack. Never was that more true than in the aforementioned game against the Vikings. In that contest, the G-Men threw the football 40+ times. That's not to say their ground game wasn't effective as well. They racked up 126 rush yards on only 21 attempts. While the Vikings bolstered their offense with the addition of TE T.J. Hockenson prior to the trade deadline, they elected to stand pat defensively and that could ultimately prove to be their downfall in the postseason. Strong safety Harrison Smith, arguably their best defender, continues to play hurt. They've had no answers for opposing passing games, nor have they been able to stop opposing running backs, both on the ground and through the air. I do have a lot of respect for the Giants defense but there's no denying this is a difficult matchup against a multi-faceted Vikings offense. As I mentioned, this has been an even more explosive Vikings offense since acquiring Hockenson from the Detroit. WR Justin Jefferson is as advertised, as is RB Dalvin Cook, who should once again feast on a Giants defense that has struggled to stop the run all season. New York does get back CB Adoree Jackson. It remains to be seen how effective he can be in his first game action since Week 11. Even facing blanket coverage in Week 16 against New York, Jefferson still went off to pace the Vikes offense. Expect a shootout here. Take the over (10*). |
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01-14-23 | Utah v. USC UNDER 135.5 | 56-71 | Win | 100 | 13 h 28 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'under' between Utah and USC at 10:30 pm et on Saturday. I expect this game to be played at a snail's pace as Utah looks to 'ugly it up' in an effort to come away with something from this two-game road trip to Los Angeles. The Utes couldn't muster any sort of offense against the mighty Bruins of UCLA last time out and will be hard-pressed to do much better against another terrific defensive squad in USC on Saturday. The good news is, the Utes can play some defense (they rank 19th in the country in adjusted defensive efficiency according to KenPom) - something we didn't necessarily see from them in the loss to UCLA. I expect Utah to step up defensively against a more manageable offensive opponent here and ultimately help keep this one 'under' the lofty total. Take the under (8*). |
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01-14-23 | Bradley v. Drake OVER 128.5 | Top | 61-86 | Win | 100 | 11 h 5 m | Show |
Missouri Valley Conference Total of the Month. My selection is on the 'over' between Bradley and Drake at 8 pm et on Saturday. This isn't the Missouri Valley Conference Tournament and as such I think we'll see a much looser, up-tempo game between these two conference powerhouses than what you would expect to see in March. We're talking about two of the best offensive teams in the MVC on paper. Bradley has certainly showed it over its last two games, scoring 88 and 91 points in wins over Valpo and Evansville. While the level of competition steps up here, I like the consistency Bradley has shown at the offensive end of the floor, making good on 27 or more field goals in six of its last seven games. Drake comes off of a pair of exceptional offensive performances as well, scoring 82 and 76 points in wins over Murray State and Illinois-Chicago. The most recent meeting between these two teams last February was a low-scoring affair but of note, we haven't seen consecutive 'under' results between these two teams since back in 2018-19. Take the over (10*). |
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01-14-23 | Canadiens v. Islanders OVER 5.5 | 1-2 | Loss | -120 | 9 h 16 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'over' between Montreal and New York at 7:05 pm et on Saturday. Fairly straight-forward play here as I believe this total will prove too low with the Habs visiting the Islanders on Saturday. We should see something of a 'sling-shot' effect in terms of the Isles as they bust out after getting held down by two terrific defensive opponents in the Stars and Wild to open this homestand. With that being said, I don't have a lot of trust in the Isles to make things easy on themselves here, and that should lead to some scoring opportunities for the Habs. Montreal has sandwiched five and four-goal performances against the Blues and Predators around a shutout loss against the Kraken over the last week. The Habs haven't suffered much of a drop-off in offensive production on the road this season, averaging 2.6 goals per contest. The bad news, they're allowing a whopping 3.7 goals per game in a visitor's role. New York has scored just five goals during its four-game losing streak but is well-positioned to bounce back here, noting that it averages 3.0 goals per game on home ice this season. Take the over (8*). |
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01-14-23 | Air Force v. Fresno State OVER 123 | 51-48 | Loss | -110 | 10 h 51 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'over' between Air Force and Fresno State at 7 pm et on Saturday. I simply feel this total will prove too low given the improvement Air Force has shown offensively, combined with the porous nature of both defenses. The Falcons have quietly been lighting it up, knocking down 24 or more field goals in seven of their last eight games. They hung 85 points on the board in a double-digit win over Colorado State last time out. Meanwhile, Fresno State has been getting absolutely torched defensively, allowing 27, 29 and 31 made field goals over its last three games. However, the line dictates a close affair in favor of the hometown Bulldogs here and that's reasonable when you consider Air Force has yielded more than 70 points in four straight games, allowing six straight opponents to knock down at least 23 field goals. I think we're in for a much higher-scoring game than most expect here. Take the over (8*). |
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01-14-23 | Virginia v. Florida State OVER 131 | 67-58 | Loss | -110 | 7 h 45 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'over' between Virginia and Florida State at 4 pm et on Saturday. I don't think this is going to be the defensive slugfest that most are expecting in Tallahassee on Saturday afternoon. Virginia has been a bit different than we've come to expect this season, riding its offense a little more on the way to a 12-3 overall record. The Cavaliers enter this game having gotten into the 60's or 70's in terms of scoring in seven straight games. Florida State is in the middle of a tough campaign but has certainly played better basketball lately. The Seminoles check in having scored 73 or more points in six of their last seven contests. Florida State does continue to struggle defensively, however, yielding 28 or more made field goals in four of its last five games. Take the over (8*). |
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01-14-23 | Troy State v. Appalachian State OVER 133.5 | 45-58 | Loss | -110 | 6 h 20 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'over' between Troy and Appalachian State at 4 pm et on Saturday. I think we're in for a barn-burner between these two teams on Saturday afternoon and that should lend itself to a relatively high-scoring affair. Both teams average in the mid-20's in terms of three-point attempts per game. There's certainly a wide range of outcomes in this contest given Troy's defensive ability and the pace that Appalachian State plays at but I believe the most likely one is a game where both teams approach or eclipse the 70-point mark. We're being given a relatively low total to work with largely due to the fact that the Trojans come in off consecutive low-scoring 'under' results. That of course has little bearing on today's matchup in particular. Take the over (8*). |
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01-14-23 | Pennsylvania v. Dartmouth UNDER 141.5 | 71-75 | Loss | -110 | 4 h 18 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'under' between Penn and Dartmouth at 2 pm et on Saturday. A little too much respect being given to the Penn offense here. Dartmouth plays at a fast pace but doesn't shoot particularly well and is in line for some regression on Saturday. We've seen some high-scoring matchups between these two teams in recent years, but I don't think this will be one of them. Note that the last two meetings have seen totals posted in the 130's. I believe this number will prove too high as Penn ultimately stretches out the margin and takes the air out of the basketball in the second half. Take the under (8*). |
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01-14-23 | Wisconsin v. Indiana OVER 135.5 | Top | 45-63 | Loss | -110 | 4 h 23 m | Show |
Big Ten Total of the Month. My selection is on the 'over' between Wisconsin and Indiana at 1 pm et on Saturday. The 'over' has cashed in each of Wisconsin's last two games while Indiana has seen all three of its Big Ten contests sail 'over' the total, allowing 91, 84 and 85 points in the process. While the Badgers aren't exactly known for their offensive prowess, I do think they find the going much easier against the Hoosiers non-existent defense after facing Illinois and Michigan State in their last two games. On the flip side, it's desperation time for Indiana and at home in what is a stand-alone Big Ten matchup on Saturday afternoon, I do think we see it come to play. The Hoosiers offense hasn't necessarily been the problem, even if it is coming off a poor showing against Penn State last time out. Prior to that, Indiana had put up 89 and 83 points against Iowa and Northwestern, respectively. I think we see both teams approach or eclipse the 70-point mark in this one. Take the over (10*). |
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01-13-23 | Juventus v. Napoli UNDER 2.5 | Top | 1-5 | Loss | -114 | 7 h 5 m | Show |
Serie A Total of the Month. My selection is on the 'under' between Napoli and Juventus at 2:45 pm et on Friday. I really like the way this one sets up as a cagey, low-scoring affair between the top two sides in the Serie A table on Friday in Naples. You would have to go back eight matches between these two Italian rivals to find the last time a game totalled more than three goals with four of the last seven meetings staying 'under' 2.5 total goals. While Juventus finds itself as the decided underdog ahead of this clash, it has conceded a grand total of only four goals in seven 'away' matches in Serie A play this season. It's a similar story for Napoli from a defensive standpoint as it has allowed only six goals in eight home matches. Both squads enter in fine form, particularly at the back line. You'd be hard-pressed to find two teams with stronger defensive units, certainly in Italy. Napoli's four-man back line rates out about as high as it gets based on my own metrics. Juventus' back line rates only slightly lower but we can anticipate the visitors also playing a little more conservatively here, helping their cause in trying to contain Napoli's opportunistic attack up front. Since returning to league play post-World Cup, Napoli has given up one goal in two matches while Juventus has yet to concede through a pair of contests. Of note, you would have to go back six matches across all competitions to find the last time a game involving Juventus went 'over' 2.5 total goals. Take the under (10*). |
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01-10-23 | Pistons v. 76ers UNDER 229.5 | Top | 116-147 | Loss | -110 | 11 h 21 m | Show |
Eastern Conference Total of the Week. My selection is on the 'under' between Detroit and Philadelphia at 7:10 pm et on Tuesday. These two teams were just involved in a relatively high-scoring affair two nights ago as the 76ers rolled to a 123-111 win in Detroit. That's been the norm for the Sixers lately as they enter this game riding a four-game 'over' streak (which matches a season-high). With both teams playing their fifth game in five nights, I believe both would prefer a slower-paced affair in Tuesday's rematch. The Pistons quietly shot the lights out in Sunday's contest, knocking down 44-of-87 field goal attempts. I don't anticipate a repeat performance with the scene shifting to Philadelphia, noting the 76ers are allowing just 40 made field goals per game on average at home this season. In a similar vein, the Pistons are making good on just 39 field goals per contest on the road this season. Philadelphia knocked down 46-of-94 field goal attempts on Sunday. The 76ers have been pushing the pace lately, getting off 98, 92 and 94 FG attempts in their last three games. I just don't see that being a sustainable trend, noting that Philadelphia averages just 85 FG attempts per contest this season, with that number rising only slightly to 86 here at home. Take the under (10*). |
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01-10-23 | VCU v. Loyola-Chicago UNDER 137 | Top | 78-64 | Loss | -110 | 12 h 34 m | Show |
Conference Total of the Month. My selection is on the 'under' between VCU and Loyola-Chicago at 7 pm et on Tuesday. VCU enters this showdown off three consecutive 'over' results while Loyola-Chicago has seen each of its last four contests go 'over' the total. I look for a reversal of those trends on Tuesday, however. Neither team has faced all that difficult of a schedule this season according to KenPom - both teams rank well north of 200th in the country in that department. VCU is knocking down an average of 23 field goals per game with that number dropping to 21 away from home. While Loyola-Chicago has made good on an impressive 29 field goals per contest here at home, that's had everything to do with the slate of opponents it has faced. The Ramblers have hosted Fairleigh-Dickinson, Central Arkansas, Depaul, Wisconsin-Green Bay, Albany and George Washington to date. You could certainly argue this will be their toughest defensive test to date on their home floor. Take the under (10*). |
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01-09-23 | TCU v. Georgia UNDER 64 | Top | 7-65 | Loss | -110 | 12 h 26 m | Show |
My selection is on the 'under' between TCU and Georgia at 7:30 pm et on Monday. Both CFP semi-final matchups ended up being high-scoring affairs and that's helping this total hold strong approaching the mid-60's. I believe it will prove too high. Lost in TCU's 51-point explosion against Michigan was the fact that it completed just 14-of-29 passes for 225 yards - the second straight games in which the Horned Frogs completed 18 or fewer passes. Their ground game has of course been dominant, led by RB Kendre Miller. It is worth noting that Miller suffered a minor MCL injury in that semi-final against Michigan and now goes against a Georgia defense that has held opponents to just 3.0 yards per rush this season. The Bulldogs check in having allowed more than 94 rushing yards just once in their last six games - that coming in the scare against Ohio State in the CFP semi-final (we won with the Buckeyes in that game). Note that TCU earned itself three extra offensive possessions against Michigan, turning the Wolverines over three times in that contest. They're unlikely to enjoy the same good fortune here, noting that Georgia has turned it over just once in each of its last four games. While the Bulldogs offense has enjoyed tremendous success over their last two games going back to the SEC Championship Game, here we'll note that the 'under' is 9-1 the last 10 times Georgia has played away from home off three straight 'over' results, as is the case here, leading to an average total of only 45.8 points. Take the under (10*). |
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01-08-23 | Rams v. Seahawks OVER 41.5 | Top | 16-19 | Loss | -110 | 19 h 8 m | Show |
Total of the Week. My selection is on the 'over' between Los Angeles and Seattle at 4:25 pm et on Sunday. The Seahawks offense has actually been struggling lately, despite last week's 23-6 win over the Jets here at home. The Rams down-trodden and injury-ravaged defense should be the cure for what ails them here, however. Teams have been running all over Los Angeles' defense since DT Aaron Donald and space-eater A'Shawn Robinson went down to injury. The Rams have given up 165, 138, 104 and 192 rush yards over their last four contests. That's not to say they've been any stronger against the pass either. Last week, the Chargers lit them up for 24-of-31 passing, good for 7.7 yards per pass attempt and two touchdowns. With all of his weapons at his disposal, Seahawks QB Geno Smith has the potential to go off in this one. The question becomes whether the Rams lukewarm offense can keep up in a potential shootout. They did find some success early in last week's game against the Chargers but once the margin got too large, they essentially took the air out of the football. I do expect a more competitive affair here, noting that the Rams will be looking to avenge an early-December home loss against the division-rival Seahawks. Keep in mind, Seattle hasn't won consecutive matchups in this series since 2016-17. Take the over (10*). |
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01-08-23 | Bucs v. Falcons OVER 40.5 | 17-30 | Win | 100 | 4 h 38 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'over' between Tampa Bay and Atlanta at 1 pm et on Sunday. I'll keep my analysis for this play short with kickoff quickly approaching. All indications are that Bucs QB Tom Brady and the rest of the starters will play in this game. How much remains to be seen. With that being said, I'll fade the Falcons five-game 'under' streak here, noting that the first matchup between these two teams got to 36 points despite little in the way of offensive fireworks - particularly from the Falcons. QB Desmond Ridder has shown me enough to believe he can put some numbers on the board against a banged-up Bucs defense here. Meanwhile, Brady has absolutely carved this Falcons pass defense since joining the Bucs. We're talking 350+ passing yards in four of five meetings going back to 2020. Take the over (8*). |
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01-06-23 | Islanders v. Flames OVER 5.5 | Top | 1-4 | Loss | -113 | 13 h 23 m | Show |
Total of the Month. My selection is on the 'over' between New York and Calgary at 9:05 pm et on Friday. The Flames are in uncharted territory from an o/u perspective, having seen the 'under' cash in five straight games - their longest such streak over the last 2+ seasons. The 'over' has gone 5-1 on the six occasions where their 'under' run reached four games over the last three campaigns, with that lone 'under' result coming in their most recent game in Winnipeg two nights ago (we won with the Jets in that contest). The 'under' has cashed in two of the Islanders first three games on their current road trip (we've successfully faded them in Seattle and Edmonton). Off a loss to the Oilers last night I do expect a better effort from the Isles here and it's worth noting that they've scored 6, 5, 5, 5, 2 and 6 goals. All three meetings between these two teams going back to last season have totalled exactly seven goals. You would have to go back six meetings here in Calgary - all the way to 2016 - to find the last time a game finished with fewer than six total goals. Take the over (10*). |
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01-06-23 | Dartmouth v. Yale OVER 129 | Top | 81-77 | Win | 100 | 10 h 6 m | Show |
Ivy League Total of the Year. My selection is on the 'over' between Dartmouth and Yale at 7 pm et on Friday. I like the way this one sets up as a higher-scoring affair than most are expecting on Friday night. Dartmouth limps into this game on the heels of six consecutive losses, not to mention six straight 'under' results. The Big Green have done little to slow the pace of the opposition, allowing an average of 61 field goal attempts per game on the season. That spells trouble as Yale likes to push the pace, having hoisted up 60 or more FG attempts in six of its last eight games and gets a chance to show out here at home for the first time since November 30th (each of its last six games were played on the road). The Bulldogs check in off consecutive 'under' results. Note that both teams present a bit of a 'shock to the system' for the opposing defenses in this one as Dartmouth gets off an average of 26 three-point attempts per game while Yale hoists up 24 shots from beyond the arc per contest, with both teams having faced an average of only 19 attempts per game in that department. Last year's matchup between these two teams on Yale's home floor totalled 141 points, despite the two teams getting off just 53 (Dartmouth) and 50 (Yale) FG attempts. You would have to go back 10 meetings here at Yale - all the way to 2012 - to find the last time these two teams combined to score fewer than 130 points in a game against one another. Take the over (10*). |
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01-02-23 | Golden Knights v. Avalanche UNDER 6.5 | 3-2 | Win | 100 | 24 h 9 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'under' between Vegas and Colorado at 9:05 pm et on Monday. Both of these teams are coming off high-scoring results on Saturday as Vegas prevailed by a 5-4 score in a wild one against Nashville while Colorado welcomed Nathan MacKinnon back from injury but dropped a 6-2 decision against Toronto. Here, I'm anticipating a much lower-scoring affair as the 'under' has gone 19-9 with Vegas playing on the road after scoring five or more goals in their previous game over the last two seasons, resulting in an average total of 5.6 goals in that situation. Meanwhile, the 'under' is a perfect 7-0 with the Avs coming off a home loss this season, leading to an average total of only 4.6 goals in that spot. We'll also note that the 'under' has cashed in 13 of 18 meetings between these two teams over the last three seasons, including a 3-2 Avs victory in the first matchup this season. Take the under (8*). |
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01-02-23 | Raptors v. Pacers UNDER 229 | Top | 114-122 | Loss | -110 | 12 h 30 m | Show |
Non-Division Total of the Year. My selection is on the 'under' between Toronto and Indiana at 7:10 pm et on Monday. The Pacers enter this game on the heels of three consecutive 'over' results - their longest such streak of the season to date. I don't believe tonight's opponent, the Toronto Raptors, will have any interest in getting involved in a track meet, noting that Indiana has shot the lights out over its last three games, putting up 129, 135 and 131 points in reeling off three straight victories. The first meeting between these two teams totalled just 222 points back in November. Toronto dropped that game by double-digits, pushing the pace to its own detriment, shooting just 37-of-94 from the field. After snapping its two-game skid with defense last time out (Toronto limited Phoenix to 35-of-71 shooting), I'm expecting the Raps be selective at the offensive end of the floor, noting that they've hoisted up 84 or fewer field goal attempts in three of their last four games. Having held the opposition to just 81 FG attempts on average on the road this season, Toronto's gameplan is fairly clear at this point. As I mentioned, the Pacers have been shooting the lights out. The pace hasn't necessarily been there for such high-scoring results though, noting that they've gotten off 88 or fewer FG attempts in four of their last five contests. Given we've seen point totals of 218, 191, 211, 222 and 222 in five meetings between these two teams going back to the start of last season, I believe tonight's total will once again prove too high. Take the under (10*). |
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01-01-23 | Rams v. Chargers OVER 41.5 | 10-31 | Loss | -110 | 8 h 45 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'over' between the Rams and Chargers at 4:25 pm et on Sunday. The 'under' has now cashed in four consecutive games involving the Chargers. As a result, we continue to see downward adjustments to their game totals with each passing week. This marks the lowest total we've seen in any game involving the Chargers this season and I believe it will prove too low. The Rams low-water mark in terms of point totals since Baker Mayfield took over at quarterback has been 12 points. That came in adverse conditions on the road at frosty Lambeau Field against the red hot Packers two weeks ago. I did feel that something 'clicked' for the Rams injury-ravaged offense against the Broncos last Sunday and think they can at least offer some shootout potential against a beatable Chargers defense here. There's been little to glean from the Chargers last two stout defensive performances as they came against the Titans (with a less-than-healthy Ryan Tannehill at quarterback) and Colts (with the ghost of Nick Foles at quarterback). This is still a defense that can be run on, and the Rams have shown some confidence in giving the ball to Cam Akers in recent weeks. On the flip side, the Rams defense is a shell of its former self, holding only two of its last seven opponents under 24 points (the Raiders and Broncos). The Chargers continue to sling the football all over the field and I think this is the game where they start finishing more of their drives with 7's rather than 3's. Take the over (8*). |
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01-01-23 | Colts v. Giants UNDER 39 | Top | 10-38 | Loss | -110 | 5 h 42 m | Show |
Total of the Week. My selection is on the 'under' between Indianapolis and New York at 1 pm et on Sunday. New York is coming off a relatively high-scoring affair in an indoor setting in Minnesota last Sunday. The Giants have seen consecutive games go 'over' the total only once previously this season though, that coming in a two-game stretch that saw them face the Lions and Cowboys - two distinctly different opponents than they'll face today in the down-trodden Colts. Indianapolis had a tough enough time just getting plays off let alone scoring with Nick Foles at the helm on Monday night against the Chargers. The Colts ran the ball only 14 times and threw it just 29 times in that 20-3 defeat. Needless to say, they'll be interested in shortening this game as much as they can to stay competitive on Sunday. The Giants would be wise to employ a similar gameplan given they've managed to win just once in their last six contests (they've played much better than that record would indicate going 4-2 ATS over that stretch). Here, we'll note that the 'under' is 8-1 with the Giants having lost four or five of their last six games over the last two seasons, as is the case here, leading to an average total of only 32.0 points in that spot. Take the under (10*). |
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12-31-22 | Cavs v. Bulls UNDER 224.5 | Top | 103-102 | Win | 100 | 11 h 8 m | Show |
Central Division Total of the Month. My selection is on the 'under' between Cleveland and Chicago at 7:10 pm et on Saturday. I really like the way this one sets up as a lower-scoring game than most are expecting on Saturday. The Cavs have seen each of their last five games go 'over' the total while the Bulls enter riding a four-game 'over' streak. Note that both teams shot the lights out in their most recent game with Cleveland knocking down 50-of-96 field goal attempts and Chicago hitting 53-of-92. I'm certainly not anticipating a repeat performance from either team on Saturday. Despite its recent 'over' streak, Cleveland has held four straight opponents to 85 or fewer field goal attempts. It has allowed the opposition to knock down an average of only 39 field goals per contest on the road this season. Chicago yielded just 86 FG attempts in last night's double-digit win over the Pistons. It has now held five of its last six opponents to a reasonable 43 or fewer made field goals. The only previous matchup between these two teams this season reached 224 total points but it got there thanks to the Cavs exploding for 128. Take the under (10*). |
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12-31-22 | Predators v. Golden Knights UNDER 6 | 4-5 | Loss | -100 | 7 h 56 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'under' between Nashville and Vegas at 3:05 pm et on Saturday. The Predators exploded for six goals in a rout of the lowly Ducks last night in Anaheim but I expect a different story to unfold as they head to Las Vegas to take on the Golden Knights in a New Year's Eve matinee affair on Saturday. Keep in mind, the Preds average only 2.7 goals per game on the road this season. Golden Knights home games have been remarkably low-scoring to date this season, averaging only 5.2 total goals per contest. We'll likely see Nashville backup goaltender Kevin Lankinen get the start in the crease in this back-to-back spot but that's not necessarily a bad thing as he has performed well this season, posting a .925 save percentage in nine games. The Knights should go back to Logan Thompson between the pipes after Adin Hill started their most recent game. Thompson has recorded a .916 save percentage on the campaign. Take the under (8*). |
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12-30-22 | South Carolina v. Notre Dame UNDER 50.5 | 38-45 | Loss | -110 | 7 h 59 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'under' between South Carolina and Notre Dame at 3:30 pm et on Friday. This total has dropped considerably since the opener and rightfully so with both teams announcing a number of key offensive contributors will be opting-out, or transferring. The Gamecocks wrapped up the regular season with consecutive wild, high-scoring affairs - both going 'over' the total. Meanwhile, the Irish saw each of their last six contests go 'over' the total. With both teams missing the focal point of their offenses at the tight end position, I don't doubt we'll see a more run-centric attack from both squads, effectively shortening this game and keeping proceedings 'under' the still-lofty total. Take the under (8*). |
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12-29-22 | Washington v. Texas OVER 67 | Top | 27-20 | Loss | -110 | 34 h 10 m | Show |
Bowl Total of the Year. My selection is on the 'over' between Washington and Texas at 9 pm et on Thursday. I don't expect either offense to have any trouble moving the football up and down the field, not to mention ending drives with 7's in this 'defense-optional' Bowl matchup. Texas will be without RBs Bijan Robinson and Roschon Johnson but that should only lead to more passing and there's little reason to expect QB Quinn Ewers to be faced with any sort of resistance against the Huskies sieve-like pass defense. What will be an issue for Texas will be the gaping hole on defense left by the absence of LB DeMarvion Overshown. This isn't a particularly deep defense and Washington certainly has the pieces on offense to take advantage of any weaknesses. Note that the Huskies didn't suffer any sort of drop-off in production at all away from home this season, averaging 4.8 yards per rush and 8.3 yards per pass attempt. It's all systems go for the Huskies here with QB Michael Penix and the rest of his weapons healthy and ready to go. Of note, this will be Penix's first-ever Bowl game and I expect him to show up and show out. Take the over (10*). |
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12-29-22 | Minnesota v. Syracuse UNDER 42.5 | 28-20 | Loss | -110 | 27 h 0 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'under' between Minnesota and Syracuse at 2 pm et on Thursday. With so many coaching changes and player opt-outs and two lukewarm offenses but capable defenses taking the field, I'm expecting nothing other than a relatively low-scoring affair on Thursday in the Bronx. Arguably Syracuse's top two offensive players will miss this game in RB Sean Tucker and OT Matthew Bergeron. That leads me to believe we'll see a scaled-back version of the Syracuse offense against a Minnesota defense that yielded just 3.8 yards per rush and 6.4 yards per pass attempt this season. It remains to be seen whether the Golden Gophers have the services of QB Tanner Morgan. Even if he can play, there's no guarantee he can finish the game. While Minnesota doesn't have quite the big losses on offense to deal with, the fact that it lost WR Chris Autman-Bell to a season-ending injury back in October was the biggest blow of the campaign. Like Syracuse, Minnesota has performed reasonably well defensively allowing 3.8 ypr and 6.1 yppa this season. Take the under (8*). |
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12-28-22 | Ole Miss v. Texas Tech OVER 71.5 | 25-42 | Loss | -110 | 13 h 34 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'over' between Ole Miss and Texas Tech at 9 pm et on Wednesday. |
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12-28-22 | Duquesne v. Dayton OVER 131 | 57-69 | Loss | -110 | 10 h 58 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'over' between Duquesne and Dayton at 7 pm et on Wednesday. I think Dayton is in for a bit of a 'shock to the system' here after holding Wyoming and Alcorn State to fewer than 50 points in consecutive games. Duquesne has displayed a solid floor when it comes to point totals this season, scoring 66 points or more in 11 of 13 games to date. With both teams having faced similar schedules in terms of difficulty according to KenPom, you could argue that Duquesne has been the better offensive team. Defensively, the Dukes leave a lot to be desired, however, allowing three more made field goals on one less field goal attempt per game compared to the Flyers. Dayton is favored by nearly double-digits for a reason here but I do think Duquesne can at least bait it into a relatively high-scoring affair. Take the over (8*). |
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12-27-22 | Jacksonville v. Notre Dame OVER 129 | Top | 43-59 | Loss | -110 | 12 h 60 m | Show |
Non-Conference Total of the Month. My selection is on the 'over' between Jacksonville and Notre Dame at 7 pm et on Tuesday. We won with Jacksonville in its most recent game but I think it's in for a bit of a 'shock to the system' here as it travels to face Notre Dame which is in a 'sling-shot' situation after a tough three-game stretch that saw it face Marquette, Georgia and Florida State. With that being said, I don't think we see the Irish run away and hide in this one. Note that Jacksonville has impressively gone 7-3 despite facing the 32nd toughest schedule in the nation according to KenPom. The Irish are actually allowing five more made field goals on only two additional shot attempts per game this season in comparison with the Dolphins. The two teams are virtually mirror images of one another offensive, from a statistical standpoint at least, in the early going this season. I expect both to find some success here and we're dealing with a reasonably low total. Take the over (10*). |
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12-25-22 | Bucks v. Celtics OVER 223.5 | 118-139 | Win | 100 | 21 h 31 m | Show | |
My selection is on the first half 'over' between Milwaukee and Boston at 5:10 pm et on Sunday. I see this as a potential blow-up spot for the Celtics offense against a Bucks defense that has struggled to find its way in the early going this season. Milwaukee checks in having allowed more than 90 field goal attempts in five of its last seven games overall. Meanwhile, the Celtics have gotten off an incredible 100 or more field goal attempts in four of their last eight contests. The C's certainly looked in-sync on Friday as they knocked down 44 field goals and scored 121 points in a double-digit win over Minnesota. Defensively, the C's have allowed six of their last seven opponents to knock down 42 or more field goals. My concern here is that we see a lopsided contest and one side or the other takes the air out of the basketball in the second half, so we'll play the first half 'over' the total only. Take the first half over (10*). |
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12-24-22 | Eagles v. Cowboys UNDER 47.5 | Top | 34-40 | Loss | -110 | 56 h 39 m | Show |
NFC East Total of the Year. My selection is on the 'under' between Philadelphia and Dallas at 4:25 pm et on Saturday. It seems that the Eagles intentions are clear heading into this one as they're expected to give QB Gardner Minshew the start after Jalen Hurts injured his shoulder in last Sunday's win in Chicago. While it doesn't sound like Hurts' injury is all that serious, he's likely to sit as Philadelphia owns a comfortable three-game cushion atop the NFC East. While there are some that believe backup Minshew can keep the train rolling offensively, I'm not in that group. I don't expect the Eagles to put a whole lot on Minshew's plate here. The Eagles still have enough offensive playmakers to churn out some long, clock-eating drives but I question how many of those drives they can end with seven points on the board. The Cowboys probably aren't all that interested in getting involved in another shootout here - not after last week's disappointing overtime loss in Jacksonville. They've now seen the 'over' cash in four straight and six of their last seven games overall but I look for that streak to end here. Note that the first meeting between these two teams totalled 43 points. That was with Cooper Rush at quarterback for the Cowboys of course. I do think we see Dallas scale back its offense a bit here after turning the football over five times in the last two games. While Philadelphia is without Hurts on offense, its defense remains healthy and poised to shoulder the load here. Take the under (10*). |
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12-24-22 | Commanders v. 49ers OVER 37.5 | 20-37 | Win | 100 | 8 h 45 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'over' between Washington and San Francisco at 4:05 pm et on Sunday. This has the potential to be a fun one in Santa Clara on Saturday afternoon as the Commanders head west on a short week off last Sunday night's tough divisional home loss against the Giants. Washington's defense goes as far as its pass rush takes it but I question how much pressure they can generate against a stout 49ers offensive line that has done a nice job of keeping rookie QB Brock Purdy upright in the last two games (just one sack allowed). Washington is expected to have DE Chase Young back but it remains to be seen how effective he'll be in his first game back (or how many snaps he'll be on the field for). The 49ers offense is incredibly difficult to prepare for, regardless who is at quarterback. Meanwhile, the Commanders struggled to put points on the board last Sunday against the Giants, but once again flashed that big play potential with a terrific set of weapons around inconsistent QB Taylor Heinicke. Head coach Ron Rivera has hinted at making a change back to Carson Wentz at quarterback but for now Heinicke is the guy and I do think we'll see the Commanders offense rally around him with a strong bounce-back performance here. Take the over (8*). |
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12-24-22 | Falcons v. Ravens OVER 34.5 | 9-17 | Loss | -107 | 4 h 22 m | Show | |
My selection is on the 'over' between Atlanta and Baltimore at 1 pm et on Saturday. While somewhat muted, I do think we see a bit of a 'sling-shot' effect from the two offenses here. Atlanta has been held to 13, 16 and 18 points over its last three games - the first time this season it has been held under 23 points in three consecutive games. Yes, the presence of rookie QB Desmond Ridder does put a fairly low ceiling on this offense but is he really all that much worse of an option than Marcus Mariota? The Ravens will give Tyler Huntley another start as Lamar Jackson still isn't ready to return. Like the Falcons offense, the Ravens 'O' is in bounce-back mode after being held to 10, 16 and 3 points in its last three contests. Prior to that, Baltimore hadn't been held under 20 points in consecutive games all season. By this point, Huntley should be more than comfortable running the offense (keeping in mind he's seen significant playing time prior to this season as well) and draws a favorable matchup against a porous Falcons defense here. Take the over (8*). |
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Sean Murphy ALL Sports Totals Picks
Date | Match Up | Rating | Score | Result | Profit | Lead Time | Analysis |
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02-24-23 | Fairfield v. Niagara OVER 124.5 | Top | 68-76 | Win | 100 | 11 h 18 m | Show |
02-23-23 | Washington State v. Stanford UNDER 135 | Top | 67-63 | Win | 100 | 16 h 31 m | Show |
02-22-23 | Wake Forest v. NC State OVER 155 | 74-90 | Win | 100 | 13 h 3 m | Show | |
02-21-23 | Youngstown State v. Robert Morris OVER 144 | 64-83 | Win | 100 | 11 h 58 m | Show | |
02-20-23 | Hawaii v. CS Bakersfield OVER 122.5 | Top | 61-50 | Loss | -110 | 12 h 11 m | Show |
02-19-23 | Rider v. Quinnipiac OVER 140 | Top | 88-90 | Win | 100 | 6 h 28 m | Show |
02-19-23 | North Carolina v. NC State OVER 151.5 | 69-77 | Loss | -110 | 5 h 47 m | Show | |
02-18-23 | Red Wings v. Seattle Kraken UNDER 6.5 | 2-4 | Win | 100 | 25 h 17 m | Show | |
02-18-23 | Baylor v. Kansas OVER 148.5 | Top | 71-87 | Win | 100 | 10 h 57 m | Show |
02-18-23 | Boston College v. Florida State OVER 141.5 | 75-69 | Win | 100 | 6 h 38 m | Show | |
02-17-23 | Stars v. Wild OVER 5.5 | Top | 1-2 | Loss | -108 | 13 h 49 m | Show |
02-16-23 | Stanford v. UCLA OVER 130.5 | Top | 64-73 | Win | 100 | 15 h 50 m | Show |
02-16-23 | Flyers v. Seattle Kraken UNDER 6 | Top | 2-6 | Loss | -110 | 16 h 40 m | Show |
02-16-23 | Clippers v. Suns UNDER 224.5 | Top | 116-107 | Win | 100 | 15 h 41 m | Show |
02-14-23 | Hurricanes v. Capitals OVER 6 | Top | 3-2 | Loss | -100 | 10 h 44 m | Show |
02-14-23 | Miami-OH v. Toledo UNDER 157 | 71-89 | Loss | -115 | 8 h 15 m | Show | |
02-13-23 | Wizards v. Warriors OVER 232.5 | 126-135 | Win | 100 | 14 h 51 m | Show | |
02-13-23 | Miami-FL v. North Carolina UNDER 156.5 | Top | 80-72 | Win | 100 | 12 h 38 m | Show |
02-12-23 | Chiefs v. Eagles UNDER 51 | 38-35 | Loss | -110 | 124 h 16 m | Show | |
02-12-23 | Quinnipiac v. Canisius OVER 144.5 | 65-85 | Win | 100 | 5 h 60 m | Show | |
02-11-23 | Colorado v. Utah UNDER 137 | Top | 62-73 | Win | 100 | 15 h 42 m | Show |
02-11-23 | Nuggets v. Hornets OVER 235.5 | 119-105 | Loss | -110 | 10 h 19 m | Show | |
02-11-23 | Rangers v. Hurricanes UNDER 6.5 | 6-2 | Loss | -125 | 11 h 17 m | Show | |
02-10-23 | Thunder v. Blazers OVER 241.5 | Top | 138-129 | Win | 100 | 12 h 18 m | Show |
02-10-23 | Seattle Kraken v. Rangers UNDER 6 | Top | 3-6 | Loss | -100 | 13 h 58 m | Show |
02-10-23 | Marist v. St. Peter's UNDER 124.5 | Top | 56-67 | Win | 100 | 12 h 29 m | Show |
02-09-23 | UC-Santa Barbara v. Long Beach State OVER 145 | Top | 75-72 | Win | 100 | 16 h 25 m | Show |
02-09-23 | Bucks v. Lakers OVER 239 | 115-106 | Loss | -110 | 13 h 54 m | Show | |
02-08-23 | Wolves v. Jazz OVER 236 | 143-118 | Win | 100 | 11 h 59 m | Show | |
02-08-23 | Florida v. Alabama OVER 147.5 | Top | 69-97 | Win | 100 | 14 h 39 m | Show |
02-08-23 | Spurs v. Raptors OVER 234 | Top | 98-112 | Loss | -110 | 25 h 0 m | Show |
02-07-23 | Louisville v. Pittsburgh OVER 138.5 | Top | 57-91 | Win | 100 | 12 h 54 m | Show |
02-06-23 | Green Bay v. Wisc-Milwaukee OVER 142 | Top | 80-79 | Win | 100 | 13 h 48 m | Show |
02-06-23 | Duke v. Miami-FL OVER 145.5 | 59-81 | Loss | -110 | 12 h 32 m | Show | |
02-05-23 | Nuggets v. Wolves UNDER 238.5 | Top | 98-128 | Win | 100 | 12 h 37 m | Show |
02-04-23 | Hawks v. Nuggets UNDER 234.5 | Top | 108-128 | Loss | -110 | 13 h 44 m | Show |
02-04-23 | Syracuse v. Boston College OVER 138.5 | 77-68 | Win | 100 | 9 h 28 m | Show | |
02-04-23 | Wake Forest v. Notre Dame OVER 148.5 | Top | 81-64 | Loss | -110 | 6 h 46 m | Show |
02-03-23 | Cornell v. Princeton OVER 157 | Top | 82-89 | Win | 100 | 13 h 36 m | Show |
02-02-23 | Warriors v. Nuggets OVER 232.5 | Top | 117-134 | Win | 100 | 13 h 12 m | Show |
01-29-23 | Pelicans v. Bucks UNDER 235 | 110-135 | Loss | -110 | 12 h 42 m | Show | |
01-29-23 | Bengals v. Chiefs OVER 47.5 | Top | 20-23 | Loss | -110 | 53 h 46 m | Show |
01-28-23 | Golden Knights v. Islanders OVER 6 | 1-2 | Loss | -100 | 12 h 44 m | Show | |
01-28-23 | Canadiens v. Senators UNDER 6.5 | 0-5 | Win | 100 | 11 h 27 m | Show | |
01-28-23 | Nuggets v. 76ers UNDER 231.5 | 119-126 | Loss | -110 | 7 h 32 m | Show | |
01-28-23 | Texas Tech v. LSU OVER 132 | Top | 76-68 | Win | 100 | 6 h 42 m | Show |
01-27-23 | Golden Knights v. Rangers OVER 6 | 1-4 | Loss | -100 | 8 h 9 m | Show | |
01-26-23 | UCLA v. USC OVER 130 | 64-77 | Win | 100 | 23 h 26 m | Show | |
01-26-23 | Cavs v. Rockets OVER 221 | 113-95 | Loss | -113 | 11 h 17 m | Show | |
01-26-23 | Red Wings v. Canadiens OVER 6 | 4-3 | Win | 100 | 13 h 48 m | Show | |
01-25-23 | Louisville v. Boston College OVER 133.5 | Top | 65-75 | Win | 100 | 14 h 39 m | Show |
01-24-23 | Wizards v. Mavs OVER 224.5 | Top | 127-126 | Win | 100 | 10 h 19 m | Show |
01-24-23 | Bruins v. Canadiens OVER 6 | Top | 4-2 | Push | 0 | 11 h 0 m | Show |
01-23-23 | Kansas v. Baylor UNDER 149.5 | Top | 69-75 | Win | 100 | 14 h 41 m | Show |
01-22-23 | Jets v. Flyers OVER 6.5 | 5-3 | Win | 107 | 10 h 16 m | Show | |
01-22-23 | Cowboys v. 49ers OVER 46 | 12-19 | Loss | -110 | 58 h 39 m | Show | |
01-22-23 | Washington State v. Colorado UNDER 137 | 55-58 | Win | 100 | 10 h 47 m | Show | |
01-21-23 | Giants v. Eagles UNDER 48 | Top | 7-38 | Win | 100 | 36 h 35 m | Show |
01-19-23 | UCLA v. Arizona State OVER 135 | Top | 74-62 | Win | 100 | 14 h 45 m | Show |
01-18-23 | Oklahoma v. Oklahoma State UNDER 128.5 | Top | 56-72 | Win | 100 | 11 h 59 m | Show |
01-18-23 | Wizards v. Knicks UNDER 222 | Top | 116-105 | Win | 100 | 12 h 4 m | Show |
01-18-23 | Bruins v. Islanders UNDER 5.5 | Top | 4-1 | Win | 105 | 11 h 26 m | Show |
01-17-23 | Clemson v. Wake Forest OVER 147 | Top | 77-87 | Win | 100 | 12 h 16 m | Show |
01-17-23 | Nets v. Spurs UNDER 235 | Top | 98-106 | Win | 100 | 13 h 45 m | Show |
01-16-23 | Princeton v. Pennsylvania UNDER 145.5 | 72-60 | Win | 100 | 10 h 21 m | Show | |
01-16-23 | Pacers v. Bucks OVER 228.5 | 119-132 | Win | 100 | 7 h 45 m | Show | |
01-15-23 | Ravens v. Bengals UNDER 40.5 | 17-24 | Loss | -110 | 22 h 23 m | Show | |
01-15-23 | Giants v. Vikings OVER 48 | Top | 31-24 | Win | 100 | 19 h 2 m | Show |
01-14-23 | Utah v. USC UNDER 135.5 | 56-71 | Win | 100 | 13 h 28 m | Show | |
01-14-23 | Bradley v. Drake OVER 128.5 | Top | 61-86 | Win | 100 | 11 h 5 m | Show |
01-14-23 | Canadiens v. Islanders OVER 5.5 | 1-2 | Loss | -120 | 9 h 16 m | Show | |
01-14-23 | Air Force v. Fresno State OVER 123 | 51-48 | Loss | -110 | 10 h 51 m | Show | |
01-14-23 | Virginia v. Florida State OVER 131 | 67-58 | Loss | -110 | 7 h 45 m | Show | |
01-14-23 | Troy State v. Appalachian State OVER 133.5 | 45-58 | Loss | -110 | 6 h 20 m | Show | |
01-14-23 | Pennsylvania v. Dartmouth UNDER 141.5 | 71-75 | Loss | -110 | 4 h 18 m | Show | |
01-14-23 | Wisconsin v. Indiana OVER 135.5 | Top | 45-63 | Loss | -110 | 4 h 23 m | Show |
01-13-23 | Juventus v. Napoli UNDER 2.5 | Top | 1-5 | Loss | -114 | 7 h 5 m | Show |
01-10-23 | Pistons v. 76ers UNDER 229.5 | Top | 116-147 | Loss | -110 | 11 h 21 m | Show |
01-10-23 | VCU v. Loyola-Chicago UNDER 137 | Top | 78-64 | Loss | -110 | 12 h 34 m | Show |
01-09-23 | TCU v. Georgia UNDER 64 | Top | 7-65 | Loss | -110 | 12 h 26 m | Show |
01-08-23 | Rams v. Seahawks OVER 41.5 | Top | 16-19 | Loss | -110 | 19 h 8 m | Show |
01-08-23 | Bucs v. Falcons OVER 40.5 | 17-30 | Win | 100 | 4 h 38 m | Show | |
01-06-23 | Islanders v. Flames OVER 5.5 | Top | 1-4 | Loss | -113 | 13 h 23 m | Show |
01-06-23 | Dartmouth v. Yale OVER 129 | Top | 81-77 | Win | 100 | 10 h 6 m | Show |
01-02-23 | Golden Knights v. Avalanche UNDER 6.5 | 3-2 | Win | 100 | 24 h 9 m | Show | |
01-02-23 | Raptors v. Pacers UNDER 229 | Top | 114-122 | Loss | -110 | 12 h 30 m | Show |
01-01-23 | Rams v. Chargers OVER 41.5 | 10-31 | Loss | -110 | 8 h 45 m | Show | |
01-01-23 | Colts v. Giants UNDER 39 | Top | 10-38 | Loss | -110 | 5 h 42 m | Show |
12-31-22 | Cavs v. Bulls UNDER 224.5 | Top | 103-102 | Win | 100 | 11 h 8 m | Show |
12-31-22 | Predators v. Golden Knights UNDER 6 | 4-5 | Loss | -100 | 7 h 56 m | Show | |
12-30-22 | South Carolina v. Notre Dame UNDER 50.5 | 38-45 | Loss | -110 | 7 h 59 m | Show | |
12-29-22 | Washington v. Texas OVER 67 | Top | 27-20 | Loss | -110 | 34 h 10 m | Show |
12-29-22 | Minnesota v. Syracuse UNDER 42.5 | 28-20 | Loss | -110 | 27 h 0 m | Show | |
12-28-22 | Ole Miss v. Texas Tech OVER 71.5 | 25-42 | Loss | -110 | 13 h 34 m | Show | |
12-28-22 | Duquesne v. Dayton OVER 131 | 57-69 | Loss | -110 | 10 h 58 m | Show | |
12-27-22 | Jacksonville v. Notre Dame OVER 129 | Top | 43-59 | Loss | -110 | 12 h 60 m | Show |
12-25-22 | Bucks v. Celtics OVER 223.5 | 118-139 | Win | 100 | 21 h 31 m | Show | |
12-24-22 | Eagles v. Cowboys UNDER 47.5 | Top | 34-40 | Loss | -110 | 56 h 39 m | Show |
12-24-22 | Commanders v. 49ers OVER 37.5 | 20-37 | Win | 100 | 8 h 45 m | Show | |
12-24-22 | Falcons v. Ravens OVER 34.5 | 9-17 | Loss | -107 | 4 h 22 m | Show |