GOLDSHEET
NEW ORLEANS 31 - Arizona 30—Can New Orleans regain the quick-striking,
dominating form that paced the Saints to a 6-0 pointspread start and then a 13-
0 SU mark that had their fans thinking the formerly unthinkable—a perfect season
and Super Bowl championship?
History has shown that regaining such lost momentum can be difficult. And
such a recovery might be even more difficult for a New Orleans’ team that
dropped its last three games (full effort or not) and hasn’t won since two weeks
before Christmas! And let’s not forget that at least two N.O. victories (46-34 at
Miami & 33-30 in OT at Washington) came about in quite improbable fashion.
QB Drew Brees ended with an NFL-record 70.6 completion percentage, and
Sean Payton’s diverse offense led the league in scoring and yards. But, partly
due to an accumulation of injuries, the Saints ended the season 2-8 vs. the
spread their last 10 games. New Orleans covered only 2 of its last 9 games when
favored, and only 1 of its last 5 games at home.
There is good news, however, with formerly wounded players such as S Darren
Sharper, DT Sedrick Ellis, LBs Jonathan Vilma & Scott Shanle, and TE Jeremy
Shockey all ready to return after being held out of the regular-season finale.
Starting CB Jabari Greer’s groin survived a test in that Game 16 at Carolina.
Thus, with Arizona traveling and on a short turnaround after a home game last
Sunday, Payton & Brees have a chance to re-start the Saints’ engine.
Whether they can distance themselves from the tested and proven Cardinals
(6-2 SU away TY) is another matter. Arizona has covered all five of its
postseason games the last two years, going 4-1 SU, with its only loss by a matter
of one inch and 35 seconds in LY’s Super Bowl in Tampa vs. the Steelers. Kurt
Warner has stayed healthy, hitting an uncanny 29 of 33 for 5 TDs in last week’s
OT victory vs. Green Bay and a combined 72% for 1526 yards with 16 TDs vs.
only 3 ints. in the playoffs the L2Ys. Rookie Beanie Wells (91 YR vs. the Packers)
has boosted the Cards’ ground game. WRs Steve Breaston & Early Doucet (LSU
product) filled in well for injured Anquan Boldin last week with 13 recs. for
202 yards. Both teams have been vulnerable to the pass TY, with Arizona
finishing 23rd and New Orleans 26th. If Arizona “brings it” for this game, as
it has for its last five postseason contests for the underrated Ken
Whisenhunt, it’s a shooting match.
(07-NEW ORLEANS -3' 31-24...SR: Arizona 13-12)
BALTIMORE (10-7) at INDIANAPOLIS (14-2)
Saturday night, January 16, 2010
TEAM SUR PSR PF PA YR YP T-R-P YR YP T-R-P TO DIFF OPR
Baltimore 10-7 9-8 25 16 144 203 51-26-21 92 203 29-8-19 +12 4.3 4.7
Indianapolis 14-2 10-6 26 19 81 282 53-16-34 127 213 31-10-19 +1 3.7 4.6
*INDIANAPOLIS 25 - Baltimore 24—Just curious, but we wonder if any fans of
the “old Colts” from Baltimore might be a little torn in their allegiance this week.
Regardless, they’ve certainly had a chance to test their loyalties in recent years,
when the Indy version of their formerly beloved Colts and their Inner Harbor
replacements, the Ravens, have gotten together. In fact, these two teams have
met every season since 2004, with all six encounters won and covered by Peyton
Manning’s Indy. Although the Colts cut it pretty close this season when
squeezing out a 17-15 win at M&T Bank Stadium back on November 22, barely
covering as a 1-point favorite. Though kept out of the end zone by the Indy
defense, Baltimore stayed close that cloudy afternoon, thanks to five Billy Cundiff
FGs, and was in position to win with another Cundiff kick late in 4th Q when QB
Joe Flacco was picked off by Colt LB Gary Brackett deep in Indy territory.
Given that Manning and the Colts’ attack are no mystery to the Ravens, we see
no reason why Baltimore can’t make the rematch just as compelling and
competitive as the regular-season meeting. After all, Baltimore is certainly
playoff-tested lately, having won 3 of 4 postseason road games the last two
seasons after last week’s romp at New England. Although that game at
Foxborough became distorted in the early going, Flacco (at QB for all of
Baltimore’s playoff successes the past two seasons) is certainly capable of
producing more than the 4 completions he managed while protecting the lead
against the Patriots. The recent revival of RB Willis McGahee provides a lethal
1-2 punch with backfield mate Ray Rice, who rambled for 159 YR at Gillette
Stadium; indeed, both McGahee and Rice have busted long TD runs the past two
weeks. While Indy’s defense has navigated through a series of key injuries this
season, it was hardly dominating vs. the run, ranking a modest 24th and allowing
4.3 ypc. And a credible ground diversion importantly takes pressure off Flacco.
Whatever one’s opinion of the Colts’ decision to rest key performers in their last
two games and effectively self-sabotage their chances of a 16-0 regular season,
rest assured that Indy and Manning haven’t forgotten how to win. But Manning did
not have an easy time when throwing two picks in that narrow regular-season
escape at Baltimore, and the Raven “D” is near full strength with big-play S Ed
Reed back in the lineup. Expect playoff-tested and always-competitive Baltimore
to stay in character this week.
(09-Indy 17-BALT. 15...20-20 B.31/98 I.25/76 I.22/31/2/299 B.23/35/1/256 I.1 B.1)
(08-INDY 31-Balt. 3...I.17-16 I.30/76 B.19/51 I.19/28/0/258 B.28/38/3/209 I.0 B.2)
(09-Indianapolis -1 17-15; 08-INDIANAPOLIS -4 31-3...SR: Indianapolis 8-2)
NEW ORLEANS 31 - Arizona 30—Can New Orleans regain the quick-striking,
dominating form that paced the Saints to a 6-0 pointspread start and then a 13-
0 SU mark that had their fans thinking the formerly unthinkable—a perfect season
and Super Bowl championship?
History has shown that regaining such lost momentum can be difficult. And
such a recovery might be even more difficult for a New Orleans’ team that
dropped its last three games (full effort or not) and hasn’t won since two weeks
before Christmas! And let’s not forget that at least two N.O. victories (46-34 at
Miami & 33-30 in OT at Washington) came about in quite improbable fashion.
QB Drew Brees ended with an NFL-record 70.6 completion percentage, and
Sean Payton’s diverse offense led the league in scoring and yards. But, partly
due to an accumulation of injuries, the Saints ended the season 2-8 vs. the
spread their last 10 games. New Orleans covered only 2 of its last 9 games when
favored, and only 1 of its last 5 games at home.
There is good news, however, with formerly wounded players such as S Darren
Sharper, DT Sedrick Ellis, LBs Jonathan Vilma & Scott Shanle, and TE Jeremy
Shockey all ready to return after being held out of the regular-season finale.
Starting CB Jabari Greer’s groin survived a test in that Game 16 at Carolina.
Thus, with Arizona traveling and on a short turnaround after a home game last
Sunday, Payton & Brees have a chance to re-start the Saints’ engine.
Whether they can distance themselves from the tested and proven Cardinals
(6-2 SU away TY) is another matter. Arizona has covered all five of its
postseason games the last two years, going 4-1 SU, with its only loss by a matter
of one inch and 35 seconds in LY’s Super Bowl in Tampa vs. the Steelers. Kurt
Warner has stayed healthy, hitting an uncanny 29 of 33 for 5 TDs in last week’s
OT victory vs. Green Bay and a combined 72% for 1526 yards with 16 TDs vs.
only 3 ints. in the playoffs the L2Ys. Rookie Beanie Wells (91 YR vs. the Packers)
has boosted the Cards’ ground game. WRs Steve Breaston & Early Doucet (LSU
product) filled in well for injured Anquan Boldin last week with 13 recs. for
202 yards. Both teams have been vulnerable to the pass TY, with Arizona
finishing 23rd and New Orleans 26th. If Arizona “brings it” for this game, as
it has for its last five postseason contests for the underrated Ken
Whisenhunt, it’s a shooting match.
(07-NEW ORLEANS -3' 31-24...SR: Arizona 13-12)
BALTIMORE (10-7) at INDIANAPOLIS (14-2)
Saturday night, January 16, 2010
TEAM SUR PSR PF PA YR YP T-R-P YR YP T-R-P TO DIFF OPR
Baltimore 10-7 9-8 25 16 144 203 51-26-21 92 203 29-8-19 +12 4.3 4.7
Indianapolis 14-2 10-6 26 19 81 282 53-16-34 127 213 31-10-19 +1 3.7 4.6
*INDIANAPOLIS 25 - Baltimore 24—Just curious, but we wonder if any fans of
the “old Colts” from Baltimore might be a little torn in their allegiance this week.
Regardless, they’ve certainly had a chance to test their loyalties in recent years,
when the Indy version of their formerly beloved Colts and their Inner Harbor
replacements, the Ravens, have gotten together. In fact, these two teams have
met every season since 2004, with all six encounters won and covered by Peyton
Manning’s Indy. Although the Colts cut it pretty close this season when
squeezing out a 17-15 win at M&T Bank Stadium back on November 22, barely
covering as a 1-point favorite. Though kept out of the end zone by the Indy
defense, Baltimore stayed close that cloudy afternoon, thanks to five Billy Cundiff
FGs, and was in position to win with another Cundiff kick late in 4th Q when QB
Joe Flacco was picked off by Colt LB Gary Brackett deep in Indy territory.
Given that Manning and the Colts’ attack are no mystery to the Ravens, we see
no reason why Baltimore can’t make the rematch just as compelling and
competitive as the regular-season meeting. After all, Baltimore is certainly
playoff-tested lately, having won 3 of 4 postseason road games the last two
seasons after last week’s romp at New England. Although that game at
Foxborough became distorted in the early going, Flacco (at QB for all of
Baltimore’s playoff successes the past two seasons) is certainly capable of
producing more than the 4 completions he managed while protecting the lead
against the Patriots. The recent revival of RB Willis McGahee provides a lethal
1-2 punch with backfield mate Ray Rice, who rambled for 159 YR at Gillette
Stadium; indeed, both McGahee and Rice have busted long TD runs the past two
weeks. While Indy’s defense has navigated through a series of key injuries this
season, it was hardly dominating vs. the run, ranking a modest 24th and allowing
4.3 ypc. And a credible ground diversion importantly takes pressure off Flacco.
Whatever one’s opinion of the Colts’ decision to rest key performers in their last
two games and effectively self-sabotage their chances of a 16-0 regular season,
rest assured that Indy and Manning haven’t forgotten how to win. But Manning did
not have an easy time when throwing two picks in that narrow regular-season
escape at Baltimore, and the Raven “D” is near full strength with big-play S Ed
Reed back in the lineup. Expect playoff-tested and always-competitive Baltimore
to stay in character this week.
(09-Indy 17-BALT. 15...20-20 B.31/98 I.25/76 I.22/31/2/299 B.23/35/1/256 I.1 B.1)
(08-INDY 31-Balt. 3...I.17-16 I.30/76 B.19/51 I.19/28/0/258 B.28/38/3/209 I.0 B.2)
(09-Indianapolis -1 17-15; 08-INDIANAPOLIS -4 31-3...SR: Indianapolis 8-2)
CTO
*L.A. CLIPPERS over Cleveland (NBA)...The Clippers are starting to look like a different team in the new year, especially at Staples Center,
where L.A. has won six straight (5-0-1 vs. the points), including the Lakers and Celtics among their victims. Cleveland has held the upper
hand in the series, but Cavs seem to have downshifted a bit, dropping 4 of last 6 spread decisions and are just 2-3 last 5 as a road favorite.
Clippers PG Baron Davis is beginning to find his stroke, and C Chris Kaman is back at the top of his game (23 ppg, 11 rpg in last 6 thru Jan. 11).
*L.A. CLIPPERS 99 - Cleveland 95 RATING - 11
CLEVELAND STATE over *Valparaiso (Day Game)...Although Horizon sources impressed with Valpo’s 6-7 Iowa State transfer Cory Johnson
(16.1 ppg), HC Homer Drew has plenty to worry about, including Crusaders’ psyche after recent string of defeats (including failure to score
in last 7 minutes of Jan. 10 loss at Wright State). Meanwhile, CSU catching updraft in league play after facing succession of high-profile foes
in pre-Horizon slate, and Gary Waters’ recent switch to speed-based, 4-G starting lineup should bedevil Valpo’s shaky ballhandlers.
CLEVELAND STATE 69 - *Valparaiso 57 RATING - 10
*NEBRASKA over Iowa State...With Nebraska probably off back-to-back losses for 1st time this season (NU faces angry Kansas off
Tennessee upset Jan. 10), will lay shrinking number vs. ISU squad, which has dropped 16 straight on hostile Big XII trail. Husker attack
bolstered by German import 6-8 frosh Standhardbinger, who scored game-high 13 pts. in his debut on Jan. 9 after being required to sit out 1st
15 games for playing on a German pro team. Cyclones, who have tendency to settle for outside jumpers, get few open looks vs. Nebraska’s
sticky defense (59 ppg). *NEBRASKA 73 - Iowa State 62 RATING -10
CENTRAL FLORIDA (UCF) over *Tulsa...UCF’s most acclaimed recruiting class in history paying dividends, so ready to take DDs. vs. Tulsa
squad just 5-8 last 13 as home chalk. Knights’ frosh gems 6-8 F Clanton (17 pts., 6 rebs. vs. Rice Jan. 9) & 6-3 G M. Jordan (son of you know
who) making a difference, while quick 5-8 soph PG Rompza (4 apg; 29 pts. last 2 outings) contributing more in scoring column. Tulsa’s 7-0
sr. C Jordan (14 ppg on 8 FG attempts pg) still not an overpowering, go-to weapon, and coach Speraw’s squad has covered 5 of last 6 in
series. CENTRAL FLORIDA (UCF) 73 - *Tulsa 78 RATING - 10
*L.A. CLIPPERS over Cleveland (NBA)...The Clippers are starting to look like a different team in the new year, especially at Staples Center,
where L.A. has won six straight (5-0-1 vs. the points), including the Lakers and Celtics among their victims. Cleveland has held the upper
hand in the series, but Cavs seem to have downshifted a bit, dropping 4 of last 6 spread decisions and are just 2-3 last 5 as a road favorite.
Clippers PG Baron Davis is beginning to find his stroke, and C Chris Kaman is back at the top of his game (23 ppg, 11 rpg in last 6 thru Jan. 11).
*L.A. CLIPPERS 99 - Cleveland 95 RATING - 11
CLEVELAND STATE over *Valparaiso (Day Game)...Although Horizon sources impressed with Valpo’s 6-7 Iowa State transfer Cory Johnson
(16.1 ppg), HC Homer Drew has plenty to worry about, including Crusaders’ psyche after recent string of defeats (including failure to score
in last 7 minutes of Jan. 10 loss at Wright State). Meanwhile, CSU catching updraft in league play after facing succession of high-profile foes
in pre-Horizon slate, and Gary Waters’ recent switch to speed-based, 4-G starting lineup should bedevil Valpo’s shaky ballhandlers.
CLEVELAND STATE 69 - *Valparaiso 57 RATING - 10
*NEBRASKA over Iowa State...With Nebraska probably off back-to-back losses for 1st time this season (NU faces angry Kansas off
Tennessee upset Jan. 10), will lay shrinking number vs. ISU squad, which has dropped 16 straight on hostile Big XII trail. Husker attack
bolstered by German import 6-8 frosh Standhardbinger, who scored game-high 13 pts. in his debut on Jan. 9 after being required to sit out 1st
15 games for playing on a German pro team. Cyclones, who have tendency to settle for outside jumpers, get few open looks vs. Nebraska’s
sticky defense (59 ppg). *NEBRASKA 73 - Iowa State 62 RATING -10
CENTRAL FLORIDA (UCF) over *Tulsa...UCF’s most acclaimed recruiting class in history paying dividends, so ready to take DDs. vs. Tulsa
squad just 5-8 last 13 as home chalk. Knights’ frosh gems 6-8 F Clanton (17 pts., 6 rebs. vs. Rice Jan. 9) & 6-3 G M. Jordan (son of you know
who) making a difference, while quick 5-8 soph PG Rompza (4 apg; 29 pts. last 2 outings) contributing more in scoring column. Tulsa’s 7-0
sr. C Jordan (14 ppg on 8 FG attempts pg) still not an overpowering, go-to weapon, and coach Speraw’s squad has covered 5 of last 6 in
series. CENTRAL FLORIDA (UCF) 73 - *Tulsa 78 RATING - 10
bdougsports
Ravens +6.5 @ Colts
The Ravens were dominant last week, running all over the Patriots and created 4 turnovers from Tom Brady with 3 picks (2 tipped) and a strip sack by our boy Terrell Suggs. Ray Lewis might actually kill somebody on the field...and get away with it. ZING! The Ravens have been in playoff mode for a solid month now, while the Colts lost the last two games of the regular season and then had a bye. They haven't played competitive football in almost a month. The two teams played earlier in the year and Nick took them +1 and they lost by 2, and blew countless opportunities to score more points. Indy has struggled this year against teams that controlled the clock and grind out the game (see Miami). Defense shows up in road games and that is what the Ravens showed last week and in previous playoffs. Last year the Ravens went into Wild Card weekend to play the hot AFC East champion Miami and won by 18. They then went to Tennessee in a place no one thought they had a chance of winning and won 13-10. They then lost to the Steelers, but this team is hungry and learned from last year's run to the AFC Championship game. This year they go to New England and win by 19. Can they pull the upset in Indy?
Cardinals +7 @ Saints
Here we go again. The Cardinals did this to us last year. This exact thing. They came in as NFC West champs but weren't playing their best ball going into the playoffs. They hosted Atlanta in the Wild Card game and the line opened around AZ -2, but closed with ATL -1.5. Hmmm...sounds like last week. They then went to Carolina and Jake Delhomme gift wrapped a trip to the NFC Championship game. Bottom line is the Cardinals are a team that can just turn it on with a click of a switch. They can get on a roll and beat any team in the league. Kurt Warner threw more touchdown passes than had incomplete passes last week. That's ridiculous. New Orleans has lost 3 in a row and doesn't have the same feel as the team that started the season 13-0. Drew Brees is still a great quarterback and I certainly would not want to be on Arizona's defense. I also would not want to be facing Kurt Warner, God, Larry Fitzgerald, Jesus Christ and the rest of the Cardinals offense. If this is the year that Warner retires, we wouldn't want to bet against him. Especially if he's grabbing a touchdown.
Ravens +6.5 @ Colts
The Ravens were dominant last week, running all over the Patriots and created 4 turnovers from Tom Brady with 3 picks (2 tipped) and a strip sack by our boy Terrell Suggs. Ray Lewis might actually kill somebody on the field...and get away with it. ZING! The Ravens have been in playoff mode for a solid month now, while the Colts lost the last two games of the regular season and then had a bye. They haven't played competitive football in almost a month. The two teams played earlier in the year and Nick took them +1 and they lost by 2, and blew countless opportunities to score more points. Indy has struggled this year against teams that controlled the clock and grind out the game (see Miami). Defense shows up in road games and that is what the Ravens showed last week and in previous playoffs. Last year the Ravens went into Wild Card weekend to play the hot AFC East champion Miami and won by 18. They then went to Tennessee in a place no one thought they had a chance of winning and won 13-10. They then lost to the Steelers, but this team is hungry and learned from last year's run to the AFC Championship game. This year they go to New England and win by 19. Can they pull the upset in Indy?
Cardinals +7 @ Saints
Here we go again. The Cardinals did this to us last year. This exact thing. They came in as NFC West champs but weren't playing their best ball going into the playoffs. They hosted Atlanta in the Wild Card game and the line opened around AZ -2, but closed with ATL -1.5. Hmmm...sounds like last week. They then went to Carolina and Jake Delhomme gift wrapped a trip to the NFC Championship game. Bottom line is the Cardinals are a team that can just turn it on with a click of a switch. They can get on a roll and beat any team in the league. Kurt Warner threw more touchdown passes than had incomplete passes last week. That's ridiculous. New Orleans has lost 3 in a row and doesn't have the same feel as the team that started the season 13-0. Drew Brees is still a great quarterback and I certainly would not want to be on Arizona's defense. I also would not want to be facing Kurt Warner, God, Larry Fitzgerald, Jesus Christ and the rest of the Cardinals offense. If this is the year that Warner retires, we wouldn't want to bet against him. Especially if he's grabbing a touchdown.
Tony Moss
Arizona (11-6) at New Orleans (13-3), Saturday, 4:40pm (FOX) (New Orleans -7)
Storylines: Defending NFC Champion Cardinals trying to get back to the NFC Championship for the second straight season, while Saints are attempting to reach the game for the second time in their history, and first since 2006...Saints lost their final three games of the regular season after starting the year 13-0, falling to the Cowboys (24-17), Buccaneers (20-17 in overtime), and Panthers (23-10)...Cardinals played the highest-scoring playoff game in NFL history last week, beating the Packers 51-45 in overtime...Arizona wide receiver Anquan Boldin (ankle) a question mark after missing last week's contest...Saints running back Pierre Thomas (ribs), wide receiver Lance Moore (ankle) and cornerback Malcolm ******* (hamstring) all question marks for Saturday...Saints defensive end Charles Grant (torn triceps) was placed on season-ending injured reserve last week...Saints led the NFL in total offense (403.8 yards per game), scoring offense (31.9 points per game), touchdowns (64), completion percentage (69.5), defensive touchdowns (8), and was tied for first in touchdown passes (34) during the regular season...Saints quarterback Drew Brees led the NFL in passer rating (109.6) and touchdown passes (34).
Fast Fact: In his last meeting against the Cardinals (Dec. 16, 2007), Saints quarterback Drew Brees completed 26-of-30 passes for 315 yards with two touchdowns and no turnovers in a 31-24 New Orleans victory.
Prediction: Cardinals play best when no one believes in them, but it's hard to envision the Saints finishing the year with four straight losses.
Saints 30, Cardinals 20.
---
Baltimore (10-7) at Indianapolis (14-2), Saturday, 8:10pm (CBS) (Indianapolis -6)
Storylines: Rematch of a Week 11 game in Baltimore, won by the Colts, 17-15... Including playoffs, the Ravens are 0-7 against the Colts since last beating them in 2001, including 0-3 in Indianapolis...Baltimore trying to get back to the AFC Championship for the second straight season, while Indianapolis trying to get back to the game for the first time since winning it after the 2006 campaign...Colts lost their final two games of the regular season following a 14-0 start, resting starters for portions of defeats to the Jets (29-15) and Bills (30-7)...Colts are 1-3 in their last four playoff openers, including home losses to the Steelers (21-18 in 2005) and Chargers (28-24 in 2007), and are 0-3 during the Peyton Manning era when they have a first-round bye... Ravens tight end Todd Heap (back) a question mark after being injured late in last week's win over the Patriots...Manning won his NFL-record fourth league MVP award last week...Colts led the league in third-down percentage (49.2) and fewest sacks allowed (13) during the regular season, and were tied for first in touchdown passes (34) and fewest fumbles lost (5), but were last in rushing offense (80.9 yards per game).
Fast Fact: Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco's 34 passing yards last week were tied for the fewest in a win during the Super Bowl era, equaling the 34 thrown by the Dolphins' Bob Griese in a 27-10 win over the Raiders in the AFC Championship on Dec. 30, 1973.
Prediction: Ravens defense isn't nearly as good as it looked last week, though Colts tend to let opponents hang around.
Colts 23, Ravens 19.
Arizona (11-6) at New Orleans (13-3), Saturday, 4:40pm (FOX) (New Orleans -7)
Storylines: Defending NFC Champion Cardinals trying to get back to the NFC Championship for the second straight season, while Saints are attempting to reach the game for the second time in their history, and first since 2006...Saints lost their final three games of the regular season after starting the year 13-0, falling to the Cowboys (24-17), Buccaneers (20-17 in overtime), and Panthers (23-10)...Cardinals played the highest-scoring playoff game in NFL history last week, beating the Packers 51-45 in overtime...Arizona wide receiver Anquan Boldin (ankle) a question mark after missing last week's contest...Saints running back Pierre Thomas (ribs), wide receiver Lance Moore (ankle) and cornerback Malcolm ******* (hamstring) all question marks for Saturday...Saints defensive end Charles Grant (torn triceps) was placed on season-ending injured reserve last week...Saints led the NFL in total offense (403.8 yards per game), scoring offense (31.9 points per game), touchdowns (64), completion percentage (69.5), defensive touchdowns (8), and was tied for first in touchdown passes (34) during the regular season...Saints quarterback Drew Brees led the NFL in passer rating (109.6) and touchdown passes (34).
Fast Fact: In his last meeting against the Cardinals (Dec. 16, 2007), Saints quarterback Drew Brees completed 26-of-30 passes for 315 yards with two touchdowns and no turnovers in a 31-24 New Orleans victory.
Prediction: Cardinals play best when no one believes in them, but it's hard to envision the Saints finishing the year with four straight losses.
Saints 30, Cardinals 20.
---
Baltimore (10-7) at Indianapolis (14-2), Saturday, 8:10pm (CBS) (Indianapolis -6)
Storylines: Rematch of a Week 11 game in Baltimore, won by the Colts, 17-15... Including playoffs, the Ravens are 0-7 against the Colts since last beating them in 2001, including 0-3 in Indianapolis...Baltimore trying to get back to the AFC Championship for the second straight season, while Indianapolis trying to get back to the game for the first time since winning it after the 2006 campaign...Colts lost their final two games of the regular season following a 14-0 start, resting starters for portions of defeats to the Jets (29-15) and Bills (30-7)...Colts are 1-3 in their last four playoff openers, including home losses to the Steelers (21-18 in 2005) and Chargers (28-24 in 2007), and are 0-3 during the Peyton Manning era when they have a first-round bye... Ravens tight end Todd Heap (back) a question mark after being injured late in last week's win over the Patriots...Manning won his NFL-record fourth league MVP award last week...Colts led the league in third-down percentage (49.2) and fewest sacks allowed (13) during the regular season, and were tied for first in touchdown passes (34) and fewest fumbles lost (5), but were last in rushing offense (80.9 yards per game).
Fast Fact: Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco's 34 passing yards last week were tied for the fewest in a win during the Super Bowl era, equaling the 34 thrown by the Dolphins' Bob Griese in a 27-10 win over the Raiders in the AFC Championship on Dec. 30, 1973.
Prediction: Ravens defense isn't nearly as good as it looked last week, though Colts tend to let opponents hang around.
Colts 23, Ravens 19.
Sunshine Forecast
Saturday, January 16, 2010
Arizona Cardinals (+7) at New Orleans Saints [NFC Divisional Playoff]
Power Rating Projection:
New Orleans Saints 29 Arizona Cardinals 20
Statistical Projections
Arizona Cardinals 20
Rushing Yards: 100
Passing Yards: 244
Turnovers: 3
New Orleans Saints 27
Rushing Yards: 133
Passing Yards: 265
Turnovers: 2
SUNSHINE FORECAST Official Prediction:
Arizona Cardinals 32 New Orleans Saints 31
Arizona Cardinals (1 star)
================================================== =============
Baltimore Ravens (+6½) at Indianapolis Colts [AFC Divisional Playoff]
Power Rating Projection:
Indianapolis Colts 22 Baltimore Ravens 20
Statistical Projections
Baltimore Ravens 21
Rushing Yards: 136
Passing Yards: 182
Turnovers: 1
Indianapolis Colts 21
Rushing Yards: 62
Passing Yards: 274
Turnovers: 2
** Statistical edge to Baltimore Ravens
SUNSHINE FORECAST Official Prediction:
Indianapolis Colts 23 Baltimore Ravens 21
Saturday, January 16, 2010
Arizona Cardinals (+7) at New Orleans Saints [NFC Divisional Playoff]
Power Rating Projection:
New Orleans Saints 29 Arizona Cardinals 20
Statistical Projections
Arizona Cardinals 20
Rushing Yards: 100
Passing Yards: 244
Turnovers: 3
New Orleans Saints 27
Rushing Yards: 133
Passing Yards: 265
Turnovers: 2
SUNSHINE FORECAST Official Prediction:
Arizona Cardinals 32 New Orleans Saints 31
Arizona Cardinals (1 star)
================================================== =============
Baltimore Ravens (+6½) at Indianapolis Colts [AFC Divisional Playoff]
Power Rating Projection:
Indianapolis Colts 22 Baltimore Ravens 20
Statistical Projections
Baltimore Ravens 21
Rushing Yards: 136
Passing Yards: 182
Turnovers: 1
Indianapolis Colts 21
Rushing Yards: 62
Passing Yards: 274
Turnovers: 2
** Statistical edge to Baltimore Ravens
SUNSHINE FORECAST Official Prediction:
Indianapolis Colts 23 Baltimore Ravens 21
Vinnie Iyer
Shootout of the Week
Arizona Cardinals at New Orleans Saints.
Even if Romo vs. Favre is the main course on the NFC menu, it's still unfair to call this Saturday game an appetizer. Let's call it an extended happy hour, because Kurt Warner and Drew Brees will provide plenty of pleasing moments in the Superdome.
Many expect a repeat of the Cards-Packers' high-scoring wackiness. They should: The quarterbacks are too good and the supporting casts are too deep and versatile to keep each team's final score below the 30s.
Defensively, these teams measure themselves by big plays, not by points or yardage. Neither defense has anything to lose by coming out aggressively, because the ability to get just one or two turnovers can be the difference in the game -- just ask Arizona how it helped the team survive against Green Bay.
Look for defensive coordinator Gregg Williams to have the rested Saints flying off the ball to go after and force a rushed throw or two by Warner, putting Darren Sharper and the rest of the hosts' ballhawks in position to get interceptions.
To close the game, the Saints will turn to their sneaky strength -- pounding the ball with Pierre Thomas, Mike Bell and Reggie Bush. New Orleans will play keep away with the run at the ideal time in the fourth quarter. Saints 44, Cardinals 34.
AFC Games of the Week
Baltimore Ravens at Indianapolis Colts.
There's no secret the Ravens would love to execute the same game plan that worked so well in New England. Rattle an elite quarterback with varied looks, and dominate the line of scrimmage with a physical running game.
You can bet league MVP Peyton Manning has studied every aspect of how the Ravens went after Tom Brady, and has an answer for it. He's got a more reliable receiving corps, with Reggie Wayne working outside and Dallas Clark creating mismatches inside. The Colts will also position young wideouts Pierre Garcon and Austin Collie to make plays.
Indianapolis will come out spreading the ball around looking to build a lead, and then rely on its defense to tackle well, bend and don't break. The Ravens won't just be able to run, run, run this week, and even though Joe Flacco doesn't mind throwing often, dueling with Manning is too much of an obstacle. Colts 23, Ravens 20.
Shootout of the Week
Arizona Cardinals at New Orleans Saints.
Even if Romo vs. Favre is the main course on the NFC menu, it's still unfair to call this Saturday game an appetizer. Let's call it an extended happy hour, because Kurt Warner and Drew Brees will provide plenty of pleasing moments in the Superdome.
Many expect a repeat of the Cards-Packers' high-scoring wackiness. They should: The quarterbacks are too good and the supporting casts are too deep and versatile to keep each team's final score below the 30s.
Defensively, these teams measure themselves by big plays, not by points or yardage. Neither defense has anything to lose by coming out aggressively, because the ability to get just one or two turnovers can be the difference in the game -- just ask Arizona how it helped the team survive against Green Bay.
Look for defensive coordinator Gregg Williams to have the rested Saints flying off the ball to go after and force a rushed throw or two by Warner, putting Darren Sharper and the rest of the hosts' ballhawks in position to get interceptions.
To close the game, the Saints will turn to their sneaky strength -- pounding the ball with Pierre Thomas, Mike Bell and Reggie Bush. New Orleans will play keep away with the run at the ideal time in the fourth quarter. Saints 44, Cardinals 34.
AFC Games of the Week
Baltimore Ravens at Indianapolis Colts.
There's no secret the Ravens would love to execute the same game plan that worked so well in New England. Rattle an elite quarterback with varied looks, and dominate the line of scrimmage with a physical running game.
You can bet league MVP Peyton Manning has studied every aspect of how the Ravens went after Tom Brady, and has an answer for it. He's got a more reliable receiving corps, with Reggie Wayne working outside and Dallas Clark creating mismatches inside. The Colts will also position young wideouts Pierre Garcon and Austin Collie to make plays.
Indianapolis will come out spreading the ball around looking to build a lead, and then rely on its defense to tackle well, bend and don't break. The Ravens won't just be able to run, run, run this week, and even though Joe Flacco doesn't mind throwing often, dueling with Manning is too much of an obstacle. Colts 23, Ravens 20.
Gina's NFL Predictions
Divisional Playoff Games
Saturday, January 16th, 2010 4:30 PM EST.
Arizona Cardinals (11-6) at New Orleans Saints (13-3)
LouiSIAna Superdome - New Orleans, LouiSIAna
New Orleans has covered the spread in four of the last five against the Cards, including the last two at the Superdome. However, Arizona is a good road team, 6-2 this season and went 7-0 ATS this season as an underdog. Another shootout is in all likelihood will happen with Brees and Warner at the helm. Take the hot Cardinals and the points. Arizona is 5-0 ATS in the last five playoff games.
Arizona Cardinals +7
Saturday, January 16th, 2010 8:15 PM EST.
Baltimore Ravens (10-7) at Indianapolis Colts (14-2)
Lucas Oil Stadium - Indianapolis, Indiana
Indianapolis has won the last seven meetings against the Ravens, including the last four in Indianapolis. Look for the Ravens to have difficulty stopping Peyton and troops passing attack. Indianapolis is 5-0 both straight-up and against the spread in its last 5 games versus Baltimore.
Indianapolis Colts -6½
Divisional Playoff Games
Saturday, January 16th, 2010 4:30 PM EST.
Arizona Cardinals (11-6) at New Orleans Saints (13-3)
LouiSIAna Superdome - New Orleans, LouiSIAna
New Orleans has covered the spread in four of the last five against the Cards, including the last two at the Superdome. However, Arizona is a good road team, 6-2 this season and went 7-0 ATS this season as an underdog. Another shootout is in all likelihood will happen with Brees and Warner at the helm. Take the hot Cardinals and the points. Arizona is 5-0 ATS in the last five playoff games.
Arizona Cardinals +7
Saturday, January 16th, 2010 8:15 PM EST.
Baltimore Ravens (10-7) at Indianapolis Colts (14-2)
Lucas Oil Stadium - Indianapolis, Indiana
Indianapolis has won the last seven meetings against the Ravens, including the last four in Indianapolis. Look for the Ravens to have difficulty stopping Peyton and troops passing attack. Indianapolis is 5-0 both straight-up and against the spread in its last 5 games versus Baltimore.
Indianapolis Colts -6½
Ice picks: Today's best NHL bets
New York Rangers at St. Louis Blues (-125, 5)
A head coach never wants to admit that he’s stumped when it comes to improving his team. But after another scoreless effort, New York Rangers coach John Tortorella was dumbfounded by his team’s performances.
"I can't explain it; I'm not in (the players') heads," Tortorella told reporters after his team’s 2-0 loss to the Ottawa Senators Thursday. "I don't understand it."
New York has gone 144 minutes and 23 seconds without finding the net, stretching back to the opening minute of the third period of the Rangers’ 3-1 win over the Boston Bruins last Saturday. They’ve actually outshot their opponents 83-79 in the last two games, playing under the total in both contests.
The one bright spot has been the return to form of goaltender Henrik Lundqvist. He’s rebounded from an inconsistent start to the year by allowing just over one goal a game in his last seven appearances – in which New York has played under the total in six of those games.
Bettors should expect a lack of fireworks from the Rangers again Saturday, with the lackluster St. Louis Blues playing hosts.
Pick: Under
Edmonton Oilers at San Jose Sharks (-320, 5.5)
Sharks coach Todd McLellan likes to keep star goalie Evgeni Nabokov on his toes.
The coach was very vocal in calling out his puck stopper earlier in the season, saying the even though Nabokov is one of the best goalies in the NHL, he’d have to compete for the starting job like everyone else on the team.
That pressure sparked Nabokov, leading to a 26-7-8 record and a 2.25 goals against average. In recent games, Nabokov has been even sharper, allowing just one goal in four of his last five starts and keeping the Sharks under the total in all five contests.
"Nabby has been very good," McLellan told the San Jose Mercury News. "I think he's solid in net, he seems to carry himself better around the rink and his teammates. He's accepted the way we play. He's everything we could have asked (for) to this point."
Nabokov, fresh off a 2-1 shootout loss to the Bruins in which he made 31 saves, stares down a feeble Edmonton Oilers offense that has scored an average of just over two goals per game during the team’s current six-game losing skid.
Pick: Under
New York Rangers at St. Louis Blues (-125, 5)
A head coach never wants to admit that he’s stumped when it comes to improving his team. But after another scoreless effort, New York Rangers coach John Tortorella was dumbfounded by his team’s performances.
"I can't explain it; I'm not in (the players') heads," Tortorella told reporters after his team’s 2-0 loss to the Ottawa Senators Thursday. "I don't understand it."
New York has gone 144 minutes and 23 seconds without finding the net, stretching back to the opening minute of the third period of the Rangers’ 3-1 win over the Boston Bruins last Saturday. They’ve actually outshot their opponents 83-79 in the last two games, playing under the total in both contests.
The one bright spot has been the return to form of goaltender Henrik Lundqvist. He’s rebounded from an inconsistent start to the year by allowing just over one goal a game in his last seven appearances – in which New York has played under the total in six of those games.
Bettors should expect a lack of fireworks from the Rangers again Saturday, with the lackluster St. Louis Blues playing hosts.
Pick: Under
Edmonton Oilers at San Jose Sharks (-320, 5.5)
Sharks coach Todd McLellan likes to keep star goalie Evgeni Nabokov on his toes.
The coach was very vocal in calling out his puck stopper earlier in the season, saying the even though Nabokov is one of the best goalies in the NHL, he’d have to compete for the starting job like everyone else on the team.
That pressure sparked Nabokov, leading to a 26-7-8 record and a 2.25 goals against average. In recent games, Nabokov has been even sharper, allowing just one goal in four of his last five starts and keeping the Sharks under the total in all five contests.
"Nabby has been very good," McLellan told the San Jose Mercury News. "I think he's solid in net, he seems to carry himself better around the rink and his teammates. He's accepted the way we play. He's everything we could have asked (for) to this point."
Nabokov, fresh off a 2-1 shootout loss to the Bruins in which he made 31 saves, stares down a feeble Edmonton Oilers offense that has scored an average of just over two goals per game during the team’s current six-game losing skid.
Pick: Under
Pick 'n' Roll: Today's best NBA bets
New Orleans Hornets at Indiana Pacers (+1, 208)
Do you know what will drastically help a struggling basketball team – getting its two best players back in the lineup.
Indiana forwards Danny Granger and Troy Murphy have returned to the floor the last five games and the club is a competitive team once again. The Pacers are 3-2 (4-1 ATS) in those contests, but the two losses were on the road by six and seven points while two of the wins came against the Suns and surging Raptors.
The Pacers climbed back from a 24-point deficit versus Phoenix Wednesday and 23 points against Toronto Monday night.
"One of these days, we'll get a lead," joked coach Jim O'Brien after the game.
"Just a little more sense of urgency," Mike Dunleavy said. "I don't know if it just takes us a while to settle in and figure out our opponents. Once we get it down, we do a pretty good job."
Granger and Dunleavy both posted 30 or more points against the Suns and Granger is averaging 25.0 ppg since his return. Murphy is cleaning up on the glass, grabbing 12.5 rpg since coming back to action while also contributing 16.3 ppg.
Chris Paul’s Hornets have been terrible on the road this season (5-14 SU, 8-11 ATS) so the Pacers shouldn’t have to depend on a crazy comeback to take this one.
Pick: Pacers
Milwaukee Bucks at Utah Jazz (N/A)
You know how you always want to impress the boss your first week of work? Well, rookie Jazz guard Sundiata Gaines made a lasting impression on Jerry Sloan in his fifth game with the team.
Gaines drained a fade-away 3-pointer with no time left on the clock Thursday to defeat the Cleveland Cavaliers. The former Georgia Bulldog scored nine fourth-quarter points that night and earned another paycheck as Utah signed him to his second 10-day contract Friday.
"He has a little swag in him and believes in himself," said Carlos Boozer. "I tell you what, he made us a believer in him, too."
Boozer watched the game-winning three from the bench after fouling out and the Jazz were without Deron Williams and Andrei Kirilenko by that point in the game, but were still able to pull off the comeback.
Gaines may have to come up with another miracle on Saturday versus the Bucks as Williams and Kirilenko are both questionable.
Pick: Jazz
New Orleans Hornets at Indiana Pacers (+1, 208)
Do you know what will drastically help a struggling basketball team – getting its two best players back in the lineup.
Indiana forwards Danny Granger and Troy Murphy have returned to the floor the last five games and the club is a competitive team once again. The Pacers are 3-2 (4-1 ATS) in those contests, but the two losses were on the road by six and seven points while two of the wins came against the Suns and surging Raptors.
The Pacers climbed back from a 24-point deficit versus Phoenix Wednesday and 23 points against Toronto Monday night.
"One of these days, we'll get a lead," joked coach Jim O'Brien after the game.
"Just a little more sense of urgency," Mike Dunleavy said. "I don't know if it just takes us a while to settle in and figure out our opponents. Once we get it down, we do a pretty good job."
Granger and Dunleavy both posted 30 or more points against the Suns and Granger is averaging 25.0 ppg since his return. Murphy is cleaning up on the glass, grabbing 12.5 rpg since coming back to action while also contributing 16.3 ppg.
Chris Paul’s Hornets have been terrible on the road this season (5-14 SU, 8-11 ATS) so the Pacers shouldn’t have to depend on a crazy comeback to take this one.
Pick: Pacers
Milwaukee Bucks at Utah Jazz (N/A)
You know how you always want to impress the boss your first week of work? Well, rookie Jazz guard Sundiata Gaines made a lasting impression on Jerry Sloan in his fifth game with the team.
Gaines drained a fade-away 3-pointer with no time left on the clock Thursday to defeat the Cleveland Cavaliers. The former Georgia Bulldog scored nine fourth-quarter points that night and earned another paycheck as Utah signed him to his second 10-day contract Friday.
"He has a little swag in him and believes in himself," said Carlos Boozer. "I tell you what, he made us a believer in him, too."
Boozer watched the game-winning three from the bench after fouling out and the Jazz were without Deron Williams and Andrei Kirilenko by that point in the game, but were still able to pull off the comeback.
Gaines may have to come up with another miracle on Saturday versus the Bucks as Williams and Kirilenko are both questionable.
Pick: Jazz
VEGAS VIC
Cardinals (+7) over SAINTS
After last year's magical run to the Super Bowl, few thought Kurt Warner had another one in him. But watching his performance against Green Bay on Sunday, it looks as if he does. Every throw, every handoff, every play call, seemed perfect. He was 29 of 33 for 379 yards and five touchdowns. (Yes, he had more TDs than incompletions. Wow!) Last season, he guided Arizona to four straight covers in the playoffs, and with Sunday's W, he is now riding a 5-0 postseason spread streak. Nothing seems to rattle him, and New Orleans doesn't have the defense to even start. The Saints were 25th in total defense in the regular season (357.8 yards per game) and 20th in points allowed (21.3 per). And coming in with three straight losses, an 0-5 spread run, and having covered only two of the last 10, makes this an easy play to the underdog. Actually, it makes this baby a best bet!
Ravens (+6) over COLTS
Rested or rusted? That's the 2,000-pound gorilla in the room. Was it smart for Indianapolis to swat away a chance at a perfect season to rest the starters for the Super Bowl run? We'll find out starting tomorrow. One thing we do know for sure, Joe Flacco can win a playoff game. As a rookie, Flacco guided Baltimore to the AFC title game, and is off to a heck of a start with a gorgeous 33-14 win over New England Sunday. Of course, the Patriots were just a shell of the great teams Tom Brady took to the Super Bowl, but any road playoff win is impressive. These two hooked up in Baltimore in November, and the Colts squeezed out a 17-15 victory. But the Horseshoes have not had much success recently with a first-round bye in the playoffs, going 0-3 since 1999. With a superb running game, and a fearless QB, the Ravens should stay within a field goal to the final gun.
Cardinals (+7) over SAINTS
After last year's magical run to the Super Bowl, few thought Kurt Warner had another one in him. But watching his performance against Green Bay on Sunday, it looks as if he does. Every throw, every handoff, every play call, seemed perfect. He was 29 of 33 for 379 yards and five touchdowns. (Yes, he had more TDs than incompletions. Wow!) Last season, he guided Arizona to four straight covers in the playoffs, and with Sunday's W, he is now riding a 5-0 postseason spread streak. Nothing seems to rattle him, and New Orleans doesn't have the defense to even start. The Saints were 25th in total defense in the regular season (357.8 yards per game) and 20th in points allowed (21.3 per). And coming in with three straight losses, an 0-5 spread run, and having covered only two of the last 10, makes this an easy play to the underdog. Actually, it makes this baby a best bet!
Ravens (+6) over COLTS
Rested or rusted? That's the 2,000-pound gorilla in the room. Was it smart for Indianapolis to swat away a chance at a perfect season to rest the starters for the Super Bowl run? We'll find out starting tomorrow. One thing we do know for sure, Joe Flacco can win a playoff game. As a rookie, Flacco guided Baltimore to the AFC title game, and is off to a heck of a start with a gorgeous 33-14 win over New England Sunday. Of course, the Patriots were just a shell of the great teams Tom Brady took to the Super Bowl, but any road playoff win is impressive. These two hooked up in Baltimore in November, and the Colts squeezed out a 17-15 victory. But the Horseshoes have not had much success recently with a first-round bye in the playoffs, going 0-3 since 1999. With a superb running game, and a fearless QB, the Ravens should stay within a field goal to the final gun.
SPORTS WAGERS
Arizona +7 over NEW ORLEANS
We all saw the Cardinals involved in one of the greatest NFL playoff games ever played in terms of offense and excitement and that crazy game is really the only thing that has me a little weary about pulling the trigger on the Cardinals. However, I much prefer a team with momentum taking back 7 big points than a team that hasn’t won in nearly a month and that does not have the experience the Cardinals have. One has to figure Kurt Warner and his receivers to have a big day against the suspect passing defense of the Saints. Should the Cardinals score first, a distinct possibility indeed, you’ll be up 14 and that’s a pretty sweet place to be in. Having said that, Drew Brees and his group of weapons figures to rack up a ton of yards as well, especially with all the time they’ve had to prep. One should be concerned about how much last week’s win took out the Cardinals and they’ll have to play this one in at atmosphere that’ll be one of the most electric of all time. Put a gun to my head and I’m taking the points but prefer others to this one. Play: Arizona +7 (No bets).
INDIANAPOLIS –6 over Baltimore
The Ravens stock shot up last week after they buried the Pats in the first quarter and never let them get close the rest of the way. However, I’m not as convinced that it was the Ravens great play that got them that easy win as much as it was the poor play of New England. The Pats were completely lifeless from the first play from scrimmage to the final buzzer. Enter the Colts and you know who. Peyton Manning has had close to three weeks off to prepare for anyone. More than that, however, is the fact that the Ravens can’t move the ball and what that means is they’ll be punting it more than a few times. In other words, Manning will get a whole bunch of opportunities to move it and he’ll begin to strike at some point, maybe even very early. So, take your pick, Joe Flacco and his bum hip or Peyton Manning, the best prepared QB to ever play this game and it might not be close. Remember, the Ravens had only won twice on the road all year prior to last week’s win. They had some ugly wins down the stretch that included victories over the Bears, Lions and Brownies. The Ravens dominant effort, and I use that term loosely, over the Pats has them overvalued and frankly, I saw nothing in them that has me believing they can keep pace in an indoor stadium with this offensive guru. Play: Indianapolis –6 (Risking 2.14 units to win 2).
Arizona +7 over NEW ORLEANS
We all saw the Cardinals involved in one of the greatest NFL playoff games ever played in terms of offense and excitement and that crazy game is really the only thing that has me a little weary about pulling the trigger on the Cardinals. However, I much prefer a team with momentum taking back 7 big points than a team that hasn’t won in nearly a month and that does not have the experience the Cardinals have. One has to figure Kurt Warner and his receivers to have a big day against the suspect passing defense of the Saints. Should the Cardinals score first, a distinct possibility indeed, you’ll be up 14 and that’s a pretty sweet place to be in. Having said that, Drew Brees and his group of weapons figures to rack up a ton of yards as well, especially with all the time they’ve had to prep. One should be concerned about how much last week’s win took out the Cardinals and they’ll have to play this one in at atmosphere that’ll be one of the most electric of all time. Put a gun to my head and I’m taking the points but prefer others to this one. Play: Arizona +7 (No bets).
INDIANAPOLIS –6 over Baltimore
The Ravens stock shot up last week after they buried the Pats in the first quarter and never let them get close the rest of the way. However, I’m not as convinced that it was the Ravens great play that got them that easy win as much as it was the poor play of New England. The Pats were completely lifeless from the first play from scrimmage to the final buzzer. Enter the Colts and you know who. Peyton Manning has had close to three weeks off to prepare for anyone. More than that, however, is the fact that the Ravens can’t move the ball and what that means is they’ll be punting it more than a few times. In other words, Manning will get a whole bunch of opportunities to move it and he’ll begin to strike at some point, maybe even very early. So, take your pick, Joe Flacco and his bum hip or Peyton Manning, the best prepared QB to ever play this game and it might not be close. Remember, the Ravens had only won twice on the road all year prior to last week’s win. They had some ugly wins down the stretch that included victories over the Bears, Lions and Brownies. The Ravens dominant effort, and I use that term loosely, over the Pats has them overvalued and frankly, I saw nothing in them that has me believing they can keep pace in an indoor stadium with this offensive guru. Play: Indianapolis –6 (Risking 2.14 units to win 2).
From axiumsports.com
January 16th 2009
*-Weekly System Picks. Please follow the system and do not increase your starting bet until you at least triple your account. -*
Current Bankroll=$2,673.19
Pick #10-NCAAB-Xavier -6.5 OVER Dayton -105
Pick #11-NCAAB-Kentucky -10.5 OVER Auburn -111
Pick #12-NFL 1st Half-Baltimore/Indianapolis OVER 22.5 +106
January 16th 2009
*-Weekly System Picks. Please follow the system and do not increase your starting bet until you at least triple your account. -*
Current Bankroll=$2,673.19
Pick #10-NCAAB-Xavier -6.5 OVER Dayton -105
Pick #11-NCAAB-Kentucky -10.5 OVER Auburn -111
Pick #12-NFL 1st Half-Baltimore/Indianapolis OVER 22.5 +106
Saturday NCAAB Play GC
On Saturday the free college hoops play is on UCLA. Game 618 at 7:30 eastern. The Bruins have won 9 of the last 12 here at home in this series vs USC. Tonight they come in with some solid statistical numbers on their side. UCLA is 11-1 vs teams who score less than 65 points per game and 7-1 after they scored 60 or less in their last game. When they enter off a conference loss they have won 8 of the last 9 times and have a solid 39-7 home record. Since 1997 they have won every home game when the total was 120 or less. Usc is just 2-5 as a short road dog and has lost 3 of the last 4 times on the road when the total was 119 or less. In fact they are 0-4 this year in lined road games overall. On Saturday I have the NFL playoff GOY with 2 different 100% systems. I also have a large NCAAB card with a 5* Southern Conf. beat down a Triple angle dominator, a 91% dog with bite that will win outright, The Big city Blowout side with a 24-2 angle and a 100% Conf USA angle. NBA went 2-0 on Friday and will be on 2nd report. Don't miss any of these big plays on Saturday. This is the deepest College card to date and we will cash all day long. Take UCLA Toniight in NCAAB action. BOL GC
On Saturday the free college hoops play is on UCLA. Game 618 at 7:30 eastern. The Bruins have won 9 of the last 12 here at home in this series vs USC. Tonight they come in with some solid statistical numbers on their side. UCLA is 11-1 vs teams who score less than 65 points per game and 7-1 after they scored 60 or less in their last game. When they enter off a conference loss they have won 8 of the last 9 times and have a solid 39-7 home record. Since 1997 they have won every home game when the total was 120 or less. Usc is just 2-5 as a short road dog and has lost 3 of the last 4 times on the road when the total was 119 or less. In fact they are 0-4 this year in lined road games overall. On Saturday I have the NFL playoff GOY with 2 different 100% systems. I also have a large NCAAB card with a 5* Southern Conf. beat down a Triple angle dominator, a 91% dog with bite that will win outright, The Big city Blowout side with a 24-2 angle and a 100% Conf USA angle. NBA went 2-0 on Friday and will be on 2nd report. Don't miss any of these big plays on Saturday. This is the deepest College card to date and we will cash all day long. Take UCLA Toniight in NCAAB action. BOL GC
Eafra Soccer
Soccer Record: 88-65-16 (57.5%) +20 units
NHL: 59-37 (61.4%) +16 units
11-3-1 on last 15 Soccer Bonus Plays
Today's Top Plays are: Soccer
2* Chelsea -1.5(-130), England Premier League at 10am EST
2* Egypt -1.5(-110), African Nations at 1:30pm EST
1* Manchester United -2(-125), England Premier League at 10am EST
1* Birmingham PK(-115), England Premier League at 10am EST
1* Cagliari -0.5(-125), Italy Serie A at 12pm EST
Twitter: EafraSoccer
Soccer Record: 88-65-16 (57.5%) +20 units
NHL: 59-37 (61.4%) +16 units
11-3-1 on last 15 Soccer Bonus Plays
Today's Top Plays are: Soccer
2* Chelsea -1.5(-130), England Premier League at 10am EST
2* Egypt -1.5(-110), African Nations at 1:30pm EST
1* Manchester United -2(-125), England Premier League at 10am EST
1* Birmingham PK(-115), England Premier League at 10am EST
1* Cagliari -0.5(-125), Italy Serie A at 12pm EST
Twitter: EafraSoccer
