Sports Picks & Predictions

5* NCAAF Big Ten GAME OF THE MONTH on Michigan State +

Penn State is getting way too much respect here at home against a good Michigan State team. The Spartans are 3-2 with a couple of close losses. They have to feel like they should be 5-0 and with them off that ugly loss at home to Northwestern, they are going to be 100% locked in for this one. 

I don't know that the same can be said for the Nittany Lions. Even off a bye week, I think we could see Penn State a bit flat off that devastating loss to Ohio State. That was a game they felt they had to win if they wanted to win the Big Ten East and make the playoffs. If they are still down from that lost, they won't just not cover, but they might lose the game outright. 

It's a very similar spot to last year. Penn State was 7-0 and ranked No. 2 in the country before losing to the Buckeyes. The very next week they lost 27-24 at Michigan State. Spartans have won 3 of 4 over the Nittany Lions since James Franklin arrived at State College. 

I also like the matchup here. Penn State has a great quarterback in Trace McSorley, but that offense is built on the ground game. Only once all season have the Nittany Lions thrown for more than 300 yards and that was against Kent State.

They will likely have no choice but to throw it in this one, as the Spartans lead the nation in run defense, giving up just 33.8 ypg. Not a single team has rushed for more than 63 yards against them. Last week they held Northwestern to 8-yards on 20 attempts. That run defense was also a big part of their win last year over Penn State, as they held Saquon Barkley and the Nittany Lions to just 48 yards on 27 attempts. 

Hard to pass up on a double-digit dog that has a realistic shot of winning the game outright. Plus, Nittany Lions are 1-10-2 ATS in their last 13 off a loss and 0-7 ATS in their last 7 home games off a home loss. Take Michigan State! 

5* S. Florida/Tulsa AAC GAME OF THE MONTH on Tulsa +

The Golden Hurricane come into this game at 1-4 and have lost 4 straight, but are a much better team than their record would suggest. Tulsa has played an absolutely brutal schedule early, as 3 of their first 5 games have come on the road against Texas, Temple and Houston. 

They covered last week as a 17-point dog at Houston, but could have easily won that game outright. The Golden Hurricane has a 26-17 lead in the 4th quarter before things spiraled out of control. In their 14-point loss to Temple the week before, they outgained the Owls 403 to 300 and had a 32 to 16 edge in first downs. They also lost by just 7 on the road against a very good Texas team. 

I'll absolutely take a shot here with Tulsa catching over a touchdown at home against what I think is a very overrated South Florida team. The Bulls are 5-0 and ranked No. 23 in the country, but have played a very easy schedule with their two toughest games coming against Power 5 bottom feeders Georgia Tech and Illinois. 

If the Golden Hurricane can just simply cut down on their mistakes, they are going to have a great shot here of winning this game outright. Tulsa has 16 turnovers in 5 games and simply can't continue to get that unlucky with turnovers going forward. 

Golden Hurricane are a dominant 8-3 ATS in their last 11 off a game where they allowed 40+ points and 11-2 in their last 13 vs a team with a winning record. USF on the other hand is just 1-5 ATS in their last 6 conference games. Take Tulsa! 

5* Eagles/Giants NFC East GAME OF THE MONTH on Giants +

The Eagles continue to get way too much respect from the books after last year's Super Bowl win. Philadelphia was expected to defend their title, but they haven't even looked like a playoff team to this point. The Eagles are 2-3 with their only wins at home against the Falcons and Colts and they could have easily lost both of those games, as both Atlanta and Indy had the ball deep in Eagles territory with a chance to take the lead late. 

The two biggest problems for Philadelphia have been the injuries that have piled up on the offensive side of the ball and the defense not playing anywhere close to as well as it did a season ago. Carson Wentz is just fine, but the supporting cast is really limited with the likes of Jay Ajayi, Darren Sproles and Mike Wallace all sidelined. 

The Giants are sitting at 1-4 and have been a big disappointment, but they are coming off their best performance of the season in a mere 2-point loss at Carolina. The offense put up 31 points on a good Panthers defense, who were off a bye and I think they finally got something going on that side of the ball. I look for the G-men to deliver in what feels like a must-win game. Take New York! 

5* AFC Vegas Insider GAME OF THE MONTH on Dolphins +

Cincinnati is getting way to much respect here at home. The Bengals pulled off an incredible 37-36 win over the Falcons last week, winning outright as a 3.5-point dog. Miami on the other hand lost 38-7 at New England. 

I just think we have seen a big overreaction to the Dolphins loss. They couldn't have caught the Patriots at a worse time, as New England was 100% locked in after losing two straight. The Patriots would have done that to a lot of teams. This is still the same team that started out 3-0 and we can be sure we get the very best they have to offer off that embarrassing loss. 

Cincinnati has started out strong, but I don't think this Bengals team is anything special. They got a lot of keys guys out with injury right now and are running out of weapons on the offensive side of the ball. Tyler Eifert is on IR, second year wide out John Ross is questionable with a groin injury and their top two backs, Joe Mixon and Giovani Bernard are also both questionable. 

I think this should be closer to the Bengals as a 3-point favorite, giving us almost a field goal worth of value on a team that is more than capable of winning this game outright. Dolphins have also covered 5 of their last 6 after a poor offensive game where they had fewer than 150 passing yards. Take Miami! 

5* NCAAF Pac-12 GAME OF THE YEAR  on Washington -

Washington has won 4 straight since their opening week loss to Auburn and have racked up 3 straight impressive wins over the likes of Utah, Arizona State and BYU. I think we are seeing a shorter line here because this looks like a flat spot off those three and an even bigger game at Oregon on deck. 

It's certainly not an ideal spot, but I also don't think UCLA has the talent for it to matter. The biggest thing to keep in mind is Washington can't afford to overlook anyone, as one more loss and they can kiss their playoff hopes goodbye. 

With how good the Huskies are defensively and how bad the Bruins are offensively, it's going to be really tough for UCLA to keep this within 3 touchdowns. Washington sits 10th in the country in total defense, giving up just 290 ypg. The Bruins are 102nd in rushing (135.8 ypg) and 109th in passing (176.3 ypg). 

Look for the Huskies to have excellent field position throughout and I'm expecting a couple costly turnovers by UCLA to really open this thing up. Keep in mind the the Bruins defense is not good. They are 95th against the run (183 ypg) and 85th against the pass (238.5 ypg). They gave up 38 at home to Fresno St and I think Washington could score 50+ and you have to think this Huskies offense is itching for a big day offensively after all the good defenses they have played. Take Washington! 

5* NCAAF Big Ten GAME OF THE YEAR on Penn State +

I absolutely love the value here with Penn State not only a home dog, but catching more than a field goal. There's arguably not a better atmosphere in the country than when Penn State plays at home in a prime time game in a "white out." Two years ago in this spot they upset No. 2 Ohio State 24-21 as a 19-point dog. Last year they destroyed No. 19 Michigan 42-13 as a 9-point favorite. With that said, I fully expect the Nittany Lions to win this game outright, but I'll gladly take the points for some added insurance. 

The concerns over Penn State's offense having to replace Saquon Barkley and offensive coordinator  Joe Moorehead can be thrown out the window. The Nittany Lions are averaging over 500 ypg and come in 10th in the nation in rushing at 275 ypg, which well above the 170 ypg they averaged with Barkely last year. Senior quarterback Trace McSorely is the real deal and this could very well be his defining moment for the Heisman trophy. 

As good as Ohio State's defense has looked and all the big names they have, I think Penn State will be able to put up points on the Buckeyes, especially with OSU's Nick Bosa sidelined. Keep in mind we saw a TCU offense that isn't nearly as talented as the Nittany Lions put up over 500 yards and 22 first downs against Ohio State a few weeks back. 

The other thing to keep in mind, is the fact that this will be Ohio State's first true road game of the season. The only game away from home was that neutral site matchup with TCU and it felt like more of a home game with all the Buckeye fans in the stadium. 

Nittany Lions are 20-5-2 ATS in their last 27 games overall, as the books just keep undervaluing them. They are also 12-2-2 ATS in their last 16 vs a team with a winning record and 6-0 ATS in their last 6 at home vs a team with a winning road record. Take Penn State! 

5* NFL Non-Conference GAME OF THE MONTH on 49ers +

The Chiefs are getting way too much respect from the books after their 2-0 start. Kansas City's Patrick Mahomes has been the talk of the NFL after setting a new NFL record with 10 touchdowns passes in the first two games of the season. While the Chief's offense is dynamic, the defense is one of the worst in the league. 

Kansas City's secondary has been an absolute joke. They let Philip Rivers throw for 418 yards in Week 1 and last week Ben Roethlisberger threw for 442 yards. Expect a monster day here from Jimmy Garoppolo and the entire 49ers offense. 

I just think when you play defense as poorly as the Chiefs do, it's only a matter a time before it bites you. San Francisco's defense hasn't been great early on, but will be getting back a huge piece this week in linebacker Reuben Foster, who was suspended the first two games. I think the 49ers get a few more stops and it wouldn't surprise me at all if they won this game outright. 

There's also a great system in play favoring a San Francisco cover. Favorites of 3.5 to 10 points who didn't force a turnover in their previous game are a mere 41-81 (35%) ATS over the last 5 seasons. It's also worth noting the 49ers are 7-3 ATS in their last 10 on the road. Take San Francisco! 

5* NCAAF No Limit GAME OF THE YEAR  on LA Tech +

This is the absolute perfect spot to fade LSU. There were those that doubted the Tigers being for real after that Week 1 thrashing of Miami, but after winning on the road at Auburn this team is considered to be for real. I believe it has LSU way overvalued in a massive letdown spot against a quality team. 

Ed Oregon knows how to get his team locked in and fired up in big games, but struggles to keep that focus and energy when they are the superior team. We saw it last year when they lost at home to Troy as a 20-point favorite. 

The other thing is the offense hasn't exactly been great in the early going. I know they have played two good defenses in Miami and Auburn, but they had just 335 total yards against SE Louisiana. Louisiana Tech gave up just 25.4 ppg and 386 ypg last year and this year's team is expected to be even better on that side of the ball. 

The offense has always been able to put up points under head coach Skip Holtz and this year will be no different with 8 starters back, including starting QB J'Mar Smith, who has 589 yards and 4 TD's in 2 games. 

The other big key here is the fact that the Bulldogs had a bye last week, giving them two full weeks to get ready for this game. Holz is also 30-15 ATS as a head coach when his team is a road dog with the average loss in this spot coming by just 7.6 ppg. Take Louisiana Tech! 

5* Jets/Browns TNF PLAY OF THE MONTH on Jets +

The Cleveland Browns have won 1 game dating back to the start of the 2016 season. They had their chances in each of the first two weeks of 2018 to get a win, but continue to find ways to lose games late. This team has no business laying this many points against any team right now. 

The Jets came out with an impressive 48-17 win at Detroit on Monday Night Football, but laid an egg on short rest in a 20-12 home loss to the Dolphins. I think that poor showing against Miami has people once again second-guessing this team and that's created some big time value here with New York in this matchup. 

No question the Browns defense is improved, but I don't think it's as good as people are making it out to be. They have benefited greatly from the opposing team making costly mistakes, as they have 8 takeaways in 2 games. At some point the turnovers won't be there and this defense will get exposed. Look for Darnold to have a big game and while I'll gladly take the points, I fully expect New York to win this game outright. 

Jets are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 off a SU loss and have cashed 4 of the last 5 tickets on Thursday Night Football. Cleveland on the other hand is just 7-19 ATS in their last 26 home games and 0-6 ATS in their last 6 off a loss by 3-points or less. Take New York! 

5* NFL Vegas Insider GAME OF THE YEAR on Jags +

This Jaguars team just doesn't get the respect it deserves. Jacksonville had the Patriots on the ropes in last year's AFC Championship Game and that was in New England, where few have been able to just keep games close against the Patriots in the postseason. I like the Jaguars to get their revenge here in Week 2 at home. 

This is all about the matchup for me and as good as Tom Brady is, I think that Patriots offense is going to have a miserable time moving the ball against this top-tier Jacksonville defense. The Patriots are thin up front on the offensive line. They traded away Nate Soldier, saw their top draft pick in Isaiah Wynn land on IR and now starting right tackle Marcus Cannon is questionable to play. New England also lost running back Jeremy Hill to IR and could be without two of their top backups at running back, as both Rex Burkhead and Sony Michel are questionable. 

I just don't see the Pats being able to run the ball in this one and that's going to let that loaded Jags front pin their ears and come after Brady. Over the years, the one big neutralizer to Brady and that Pats offense is a great pass rush. 

Say what you want about Blake Bortles, he picked apart this New England defense last year and I expect him to make enough plays here for the Jaguars to win this game outright. Take Jacksonville! 

5* NFL Opening Week GAME OF THE YEAR on Colts -

This is just too good a price to pass up on Indianapolis at home. The Colts should have no problem here taking down the Bengals in Week 1. There's no doubt in my mind that Indy is going to be one of the most improved teams in the league with Andrew Luck back healthy at quarterback. I just think he hasn't played in so long that people are skeptical of taking them. 

The Colts are 26-11 SU and 24-12 ATS with Luck as a starter in home games. On the flip side of this, Bengals' starter, Andy Dalton, is a mere 15-25 in 40 career starts as an underdog. I've never really been a big fan of Dalton and there's just not a ton to like about this Cincinnati team, especially on offense. 

Last year the Bengals averaged just 18.1 ppg and were dead last in the NFL at 280.5 yards/game. They didn't do anything well, ranking 27th in passing and 31st in rushing. Little was done to improve that side of the ball. The defense also wasn't great (ranked bottom half of the league in both scoring and total defense) and has been on the decline ever since Mike Zimmer left to be the head coach at Minnesota. Not to mention they will be without their best defender for the first four games in Vontaze Burfict (suspended). Take Indianapolis! 

5* AFC Underdog PLAY OF THE MONTH on Bills +

Buffalo is a team the public wants absolutely nothing to do with going into the season and there's no question the books have inflated this line on the Ravens. A lot of people were way down on the Bills last year, especially after they traded away the likes of Sammy Watkins, Ronald Darby, Reggie Ragland and Marcell Dareus. 

All this team did was finish 9-7 and snap a 17-year playoff drought, making it in as a Wild Card. While Buffalo does lose starting quarterback Tyrod Taylor, the team is confident that Nathan Peterman can hold the fort down until rookie Josh Allen is ready to take over. Peterman had a rough go of things after he was force into action as a rookie last year, but he looked sharp in the preseason, completing 33 of 41 (80%) of his attempts for 431 yards with a 3-1 TD-INT ratio. 

Buffalo won a lot of games last year leaning on their running game and a defense that forced 25 takeaways. They know how to win sloppy and I expect them to hang around against a Ravens team that isn't known for blowing out opponents. 

Ravens are just 18-21 ATS as a home favorite with Joe Flacco as their quarterback and the Bills are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 season openers and were a perfect 3-0 ATS in September last season. Take Buffalo! 

5* NCAAF Vegas Insider GAME OF THE MONTH on UTEP +

After going on the road and giving USC a scare in their opener, were within 5 at the half and covered the 24.5-point spread, the public is going to be all over the Rebels against a UTEP team that went 0-12 last year and started out 2018 with an ugly 30-10 loss at home to Northern Arizona. 

What they won't factor in is how hard it's going to be for UNLV to avoid a letdown after that game against the Trojans. All they have been thinking about for months was that game with USC to open the season. It only makes it that much harder to bounce back when you feel like you had a shot at winning the game. Not to mention, it how difficult it has to be to take this UTEP team seriously given how bad they have been. 

We got numbers to back this theory up. UNLV is a mere 5-15 ATS in their last 20 home games when they are coming off a cover where they lost as an underdog. I'm not saying the Rebels won't win this game, but it's going to be a lot closer than everyone is expecting. Take UNLV! 

5* Falcons/Eagles Vegas NO LIMIT Top Play on Falcons +

It's just a given that the defending Super Bowl champ is going to be overvalued on the spread the following season. I know this line has dropped some with Wentz not playing, but I still think there's a lot of value with Atlanta. 

Nick Foles put on a ridiculous performance last year filling in for Wentz, but this guy has been hit or miss his whole career. I think we already saw signs of things not being as good as they were a season ago. I know it's the preseason and you can't overreact to what you see, but the Eagles offense was dreadful when Foles was under center. 

Add in he's not going to have one of his top wide outs in Alshon Jeffery, who is out with a shoulder injury, and how talented this Falcons defense is, I think the struggles continue in Week 1. Keep in mind Atlanta will be out for blood in this one after losing to the Eagles in the playoffs, a game they have to feel like they should have won. 

I also think the Falcons offense is flying way under the radar. They weren't nearly as bad as people made them out to be in 2017. They got all their top weapons back, plus used their 1st round pick on Alabama's Calvin Ridley, who looks like the real deal. As good as the Eagles defense was, I think the Falcons are able to move the ball and ultimately win this game. Take Atlanta! 

5* NCAAF Vegas NO LIMIT Top Play on LSU +

I have LSU winning this game outright, making this a no-brainer with the Tigers getting 3.5-points. Miami is coming off a solid season in which they started out 10-0, but they lost their last 3 all by double-digits. There's definitely reason to get excited about the direction of the program, but I think people are getting a little too carried away. 

LSU is coming off a 9-4 season and yet no one is talking about them in the SEC. The Tigers aren't exactly use to flying under the radar, but I think that makes them a dangerous team. I also don't think you can overlook how good the SEC has looked as a whole in Week 1. The only team to lose their opener was Tennessee, which is a complete mess right now. Auburn defeated No. 6 Washington and Alabama rolled Louisville 51-14 in the other marquee matchup. 

I look for the Tigers defense to be the difference in this one, as there are few better than LSU defensive coordinator Dave Aranda. As long as the offense takes care of the ball, the Tigers have the potential to take control of this game early and win here in convincing fashion. Either way, I like them to keep it within a field goal. Take LSU! 

5* NCAAF Week 1 GAME OF THE YEAR on Iowa -

Iowa's not a program that gets a ton of respect nationally, which is why they are a profitable 124-108 ATS since Kirk Ferentz took over as head coach. The Hawkeyes are getting no love once again in 2018 and I think they are showing tremendous value here as a mere 10-point favorite at home against a team from the MAC. 

Not to take anything away from Northern Illinois, which has quite the track record over the last decade, but they are just 21-18 over the last 3 seasons. Outlets are calling for them to be one of the top teams in the MAC this year, but I think a lot of that has to do with the conference being down a little. 

This reminds me a lot of last year when Iowa opened against Wyoming. A lot of people were on the Cowboys as a 12-point dog, but the Hawkeyes easily covered in a 24-3 victory. 

The Hawkeyes are known for fielding a team that can run the football and are always strong on the defensive side of the ball. That won't change in 2018, but I expect a much more balanced offensive attack behind one of the more underrated quarterbacks in the country in Nathan Stanley, who will be throwing to arguably the best tight end in college football in Noah Fantz (projected 1st round pick). 

While Iowa does lose their top 3 linebackers, they are very strong up front on the defensive line and Northern Illinois is a team that doesn't have a great passing attack. I just don't see the Huskies keeping pace as I have the Hawkeyes winning here by 20+ points. Take Iowa -10! 

5* NFLX Underdog PLAY OF THE MONTH on Browns +

I believe the oddsmakers have the wrong team favored in this one. Despite the preseason having no real correlation to the regular season, the betting public will have a horrible time backing the Browns, who are coming off an 0-16 season. The Giants on the other hand are a team getting a lot of love as a bounce back team and there's all kinds of hype around rookie running back Saquon Barkley. 

The key here is the Giants are more of a veteran team that isn't going to play their starters more than a series or two. Barkley's touches will be limited, so it's unlikely he has much of an impact. Once Eli Manning is out of the game, if he even plays, the Davis Webb and Kyle Lauletta are the top two backups that will get action. I think the Giants will really struggle to put up points, much like they did in the first two weeks of preseason last year, when they scored just 12 points in Week 1 vs the Steelers and 6 the next week against these Browns. 

Cleveland is an extremely young team with all kinds of players who not only need the time on the field for experience, but are fighting for jobs. The Browns will surely give a long look here to 1st round pick Baker Mayfield and should have some success with veteran third-stringer Drew Stanton. I wouldn't be shocked if this turns into a blowout. Take Cleveland! 

5* NL Run Line PLAY OF THE MONTH on Brewers +

The betting public will look to either lay the big money with LA or take them on the run line, but that's not where the value is in this game. Despite losing 6-4 in extra innings on Wednesday, Milwaukee has been playing some of it's best baseball of the season. They are 8-4 in their last 12 and I think they got a decent shot here of upending Kershaw and the Dodgers, but I'm going to play them on the +1.5 run line for a little extra insurance. 

Most of the public's focus will be on Kershaw starting for LA, but few have been better than Jhoulys Chacin of late. In his last 3 starts, Chacin has posted a 1.50 ERA and sensational 0.389 WHIP, allowing just 3 earned runs on 6 hits in 18 innings of work. Brewers are 5-1 in Chacin's last 6 starts vs a team with a winning record and 24-7 in their last 31 vs a starter with a WHIP less than 1.15. Take Milwaukee +1.5! 

5* CFL  Vegas NO LIMIT Top Play on Edmonton -

I love the value here with the Edmonton Eskimos laying only a touchdown at home against the Hamilton Tigers in Friday's CFL action. Edmonton is considered by many as the best team in the CFL going into the 2018 season. The Eskimos got the season started off with a hard-fought 33-30 win at Winnipeg as a 7-point favorite. I'm not concerned with Edmonton not covering the spread in the one, as it's never easy winning an opener on the road, no matter the opponent. 

I think that close-call will have the Eskimos 100% locked in for their home opener against the Tigers, who are one of the worst teams in the CFL this season and fresh off a 14-point loss at Calgary in their opener. I just don't see Hamilton keeping this within single-digits. Take Edmonton! 

5* NBA Finals GAME OF THE YEAR on Cavs +

I love the value here with the Cavs as a decently priced home dog in Game 4 of the NBA Finals. While Cleveland's hopes of making this a series likely are long gone with them down 3-0, they aren't just going to roll over and give the title to Golden State. There's a lot of pride in not getting swept and it's not like the Cavs haven't had their chances. Cleveland could just as easily be sitting with a 2-1 lead, as they were right there in both Game 1 and Game 3. 

Keep in mind last year the Warriors took a 3-0 series lead and a lot of people thought the Cavs were going to get swept. Instead, Cleveland ran away with Game 4 in a 21-point blowout win. I don't know if it will be that lopsided, but I fully expect the Cavs to win this one outright. At the same time, we got some insurance if Cleveland does lose, as we can still cash if the Warriors win by 5 or less. Take Cleveland! 

5* NL West Run Line GAME OF THE MONTH on Dodgers +1.5

I love the value here with the Dodgers on the +1.5 run line in Monday's series opener at Arizona. LA is going to be extremely motivated here to get this series started off strong after losing 3 of 4 over their weekend series at San Francisco. The Dodgers are just 1-5 in their last 6, but it's not like they haven't been competitive, as 4 of the 5 losses have come by 2 runs or less. The only exception being a 5-run loss in the second contest of their double-header on Saturday. 

Arizona has been playing well and are certainly getting a lot of love given the starting pitching matchup, as they send out Zack Greinke against Ross Stripling. However, Greinke is just 2-2 with a 4.80 ERA in 5 starts and is coming off a poor outing agains the Phillies, where he allowed 5 runs on 9 hits in 6 innings. Greinke has also been very mediocre against the Dodgers over his career, as he's just 5-5 with a 4.00 ERA and 1.360 WHIP in 13 starts. That includes an earlier outing this year where he gave up 4 runs in 6 1/3 innings. I look for LA to win this one outright and worse case keep it within a run. Take Los Angeles! 

5* NBA Playoffs VEGAS INSIDER Top Play on Warriors -

I love the value here with the Warriors at this price on their home court in Game 1 of the Western Conference semifinals against the Pelicans. Regardless if Steph Curry plays or not (added bonus if he does), I expect Golden State to come out looking to send a message to New Orleans that they have no business being in this series. 

I know the Pelicans looked great in their sweep of the Blazers, but Portland wasn't playing well down the stretch and that was a great matchup with no one on the Blazers who could contain Anthony Davis and Rondo being able to make things difficult on Lillard. While Davis will be to stop, Portland will have no answer for Durant and the depth of the Warriors. Take Golden State! 

5* NBA Vegas NO LIMINT Top Play on Raptors +

I love the value here with Toronto getting points in Game 6 at Washington. The Raptors took back control of the series with a 108-98 win in Game 5 at home and are going to do everything in their power to make sure their next home game is in round 2. This series likely would have been over if the Raptors didn't blow a 14-point 2nd half lead in Washington back in Game 4. 

I don't see them making that same mistake twice. Look for Toronto to take control of this game early and keep their foot on the gas. The Raptors also seem to have figured out the Wizards offense. After allowing Washington to shot 48% or better in each of the first 3 games, they held them to 46% in Game 4 on the road and 41% in Game 5. 

Raptors are 25-14 in their last 39 off a double-digit home win, while the Wizards are just 11-22 ATS as a home favorite this season. Take Toronto! 

5* NBA Playoffs 1st Round GAME OF THE YEAR on Thunder -

I love the value here with OKC as a short home favorite in Game 5 against the Jazz. The Thunder find themselves facing elimination down 3-1 in the series and I like their chances of getting a win and cover in this one. You have to give Utah credit for how well they have played up to this point, but it's extremely difficult closing out a team on the road in the postseason, especially for a team like the Jazz that don't have a ton of playoff experience to fall back on. 

One of the biggest problems for the Thunder has been the early foul trouble of Westbrook. They also aren't getting the kind of production they need out of veteran Carmelo Anthony. I look for both of these two to step up big and for the others to have a big game for OKC at home. Even with their win and cover in Game 2 on the road, Utah is just 4-11-1 ATS in their last 16 trips to Chesepeake Energy Arena. Take Oklahoma City! 

5* NBA Playoffs Vegas NO LIMIT Top Play on Pelcians +

I love the value here with the Pelicans as a decently priced dog in Game 2 of their series with the Blazers. New Orleans avoided a devastating loss in Game 1, as the held on for a 97-95 win after going into the 4th quarter with a 12-point lead. Anthony Davis led the way with 35 points and 14 rebounds, but he wasn't the only big contributor for the Pelicans. Rondo scored just 6 points, but had 17 assists and 8 rebounds. Mirotic added 16 points and 11 rebound, while Holiday dropped 21 points. 

New Orleans as a team assisted on 26 of their 41 made baskets. In comparison the Blazers only had 17 assists on 37 made field goals. Portland was really fortunate to even be in the game, as they shot 37.8% from the field. What kept them in it was 15 offensive rebounds. I just think that's unlikely to happen again. This is simply too many points for the Pelicans to be catching given they have the best player on the court. Take New Orleans! 

5* NBA Vegas NO LIMIT Top Play  on Lakers +

I love the value here with the Lakers as a big home dog against the Rockets on Tuesday. Houston has absolutely nothing to play for. They have the best record in the league locked up and have made it clear that their primary focus over the last 2 regular season games is to stay healthy.

The starters will play, but their minutes will be restricted. Given the circumstances this line should be a lot closer to a pick'em. I think there's a good chance the Lakers win this game and we got plenty of insurance if they end up on the losing end. Take Los Angeles! 

5* NBA Late Season PLAY OF THE MONTH on Bulls +

I love the value here with Chicago as a big road dog against the Nets on Monday. I think we are seeing a huge overreaction with this line. Sure Brooklyn just won at Chicago 124-96 on Saturday. The thing is, that makes this game that less interesting for the Nets, who have zero to play for and are likely looking ahead to their finale against the Celtics. 

The Bulls on the other hand should be motivated here to play better than they did in the last meeting. Chicago had been playing well before laying an egg against the Nets. Chicago had won 3 of 4 and are still 4-1-1 ATS in their last 6 overall. 

Bulls are 23-12 ATS in their last 35 as a road dog of 6.5 to 12 points, while Brooklyn is a mere 3-11 ATS in their last 14 at home in the 2nd half of the season. Take Chicago! 

5* NCAAB 'CBI' Champ Game VEGAS INSIDER on North Texas -

I like the value here with the Mean Green in Friday's CBI Championship Game. Unlike the other postseason tournaments, where it's win or go home, the CBI plays a best of 3 series for the title. These two teams have split the first two games of the series with the home team dominating in each matchup.

San Francisco won Game 1 at home 72-62. North Texas responded with a 69-55 win in game 2. The Mean Green were a similar 3.5-point home favorite in Game 2 and I just don't see any reason not to back North Texas in the rubber match at home. 

San Fran is just 4-10 ATS in their last 14 road games vs a team that's won more than 60% of their home games, while the Mean Green are now 9-2 ATS in their last 11 non-conference games. Take North Texas! 

5* NCAAB 'CIT' Vegas NO LIMIT Top Play on Illinois Chicago +

I like the value here with Illinois-Chicago in Wednesday's matchup against Liberty in the semifinals of the CIT. I just feel like UIC isn't getting near enough respect here and I think a lot of that has to do with the fact that they are without leading scorer Dikembe Dixon. He didn't play in either of their first two games in this tournament and they won by 23 as a mere 5-point favorite against St Francis-PA and followed that up with a 83-81 win at Austin Peay as a 4-point dog. UIC put up 80+ in both wins and have now scored 75 or more in 10 of their last 11. 

Liberty put up 84 in their most recent game against Central Michigan, but that was more of a result of them taking advantage of a bad Chippewas defense. They also shot lights out, hitting on 56% of their attempts. Prior to that Liberty had eclipsed 70 points just once in their previous 7 games. UIC is allowing just 72.6 ppg on the season and have held opponents to 40.7% from the field. Keep in mind UIC played the much tougher schedule this season. I actually think this should be closer to a pick'em. Take Illinois-Chicago! 

5* NBA Non-Conf GAME OF THE MONTH on Pacers -

I love the value here with the Pacers here as a short road favorite against the Warriors. Golden State will be without Durant, Curry and Thompson for this game and have little to nothing to play for down the stretch. The Warriors aren't catching Houston for the No. 1 spot and are all but a lock to take home the No. 2 spot, as they need just 1 more win or 1 more Blazers loss to make it official. 

We saw a similar scenario play out in their last game at home against the Jazz and they were no match for Utah in a 19-point loss. I think we could easily see Indiana win here by double-digits. The Pacers clinched a playoff spot in their last game, but still have plenty to play for as they are just 1.5-games behind the Cavs for 3rd and a mere 4-games ahead of Miami for 8th in the east. 

Pacers are 23-11 ATS as a favorite this season and the Warriors are a mere 3-8 ATS in their last 11 games. Golden State has also failed to cover each of their last 6 games vs a team with a winning record. Take Indiana! 

5* NCAA Tourn Rd of 32 GAME OF THE YEAR on Auburn -

I love the value here with Auburn at basically a pick'em against Clemson in Sunday's Round of 32 action out of the Midwest Region. Auburn won their opener 62-58 over Charleston. That was a lot closer than most expected, as they were a 9.5-point favorite, but that's a much better Charleston team than most people realize. It didn't help that Auburn shot about as poor as they could, hitting just 35.6% from the field. 

Clemson had a little easier time in their first game, as they beat New Mexico State 79-68 behind a red-hot 55.9% shooting. I just think the contrasting victories have created some big time value here with Auburn. I look for Clemson to have a much tougher time offensively against this Auburn defense, while I expect Auburn to be much more efficient from the offensive side of the ball. 

Clemson hasn't exactly excelled in this spot. They are just 8-19 ATS in their last 27 when playing on the road in their 2nd game in a week. Take Auburn!

5* NCAA Tournament No Limit TOP PLAY on UMBC +

I love the value here with the Maryland-Baltimore Country catching a huge number against No. 1 overall seed Virginia. Most people probably didn't even know UMBC was a school and that unfamiliarity combined with the Cavaliers being ranked No. 1 overall will have the public backing Virginia. I think the books were well aware of this action and have inflated this line to where there's tremendous value with the underdog. 

You hear it all the time, great guard play is critical in the NCAA Tournament. Well the Retrievers are led by their backcourt of Jairus Lyles and K.J. Maura. Both of which are very quick off the dribble and have great instincts on defense. They create a lot of easy looks from deep with their penetration and generate a lot of steals on the defense, allowing UMBC to get out in transition. 

I know Virginia doesn't have a ton of holes, but I think the pressure of the Retrievers and the Cavaliers potentially not giving this team their full amount of respect with much bigger games looming, will allow UMBC to keep this game a lot closer than most expert. Take Maryland-Baltimore County! 

5* NCAA Tournament Rd of 64 GAME OF THE YEAR on Marshall +

I love the value here with the Thundering Herd as a big dog against the Shockers in Friday's first round action out of the East Region. Marshall's head coach is Dan D'Antoni, who is the brother of Houston Rockets head coach Mike D'Antoni. As you might have guessed the two have similar philosophies on the offensive side and want to try and outscore teams by outshooting them from long-distance. 

It worked really well down the stretch for Marshall, who punched their ticket to the Big Dance by winning the C-USA Tournament. The Thundering Herd average 10-made 3-pointers a game and have 7 different players who shoot 33% or better from deep. That long-range attack helped them average 84.3 ppg. 

While Wichita State has the offensive fire-power to hang with Marshall and likely ultimately win this game, they are definitely on upset alert. That's because the Shockers aren't as good defensively as they have been in years past. One of their biggest weaknesses was defending the 3-point shot, making this a horrible matchup out of the gates. I think the Thundering Herd give them a scare and maybe win this one outright. Take Marshall! 

5* NCAA Tournament VEGAS INSIDER on Stephen F Austin +

I love the value here with the Lumberjacks catching double-digits against Texas Tech in Thursday's first round action out of the East Region. Stephen F. Austin has a lot of great qualities for success in the NCAA Tournament. The Lumberjacks have great depth and balance on the offensive side of the ball. They also bring the intensity on the defensive side of the ball and as a result led the nation in turnover percentage and steels. That pressure often leads to a lot of good looks on the offensive side of the ball, especially from long-range, where Stephen F. Austin is deadly from. 

As for Texas Tech, this is a team that really lost its mojo down the final leg of the season. The Red Raiders went just 2-5 over their final 7 games and the two wins could have easily been losses, as both came by 4-points or less. Rarely do you see a team that comes into the Big Dance struggling flip the switch and go on a deep run. If Texas Tech struggles with the pressure of the Lumberjacks, they not only aren't going to cover, but they may lose this game outright. Take Stephen F. Austin! 

5* CBI Vegas NO LIMIT Top Play on New Orleans -

I love the value here with the Privateers laying a short number against the Vaqueros in Wednesday's CBI action. Both of these teams finished the season poorly, but I still think New Orleans is the far superior team here. Looking back at non-conference play, we see both teams played at SMU. While both teams lost, the Privateers kept it respectable in a 13-point defeat, while the Vaqueros got annihilated by 31 points. 

The other big key here is UT-Rio Grande Valley was not good on the road and they come in a mere 1-9-1 ATS over the last 11 road games. They are also 1-6 ATS in their last 7 non-conference games The Privateers were a solid 9-3 on their home court and are a perfect 4-0 ATS in their last 4 off a SU loss by more than 20 points (lost by 22 to Sam Houston St in conference tournament). Take New Orleans! 

5* NCAAB Vegas NO LIMIT Top Play on Arizona -

I love the value here with the Wildcats laying a short number against the Trojans in the Pac-12 Tournament title game on Saturday. You have to give USC props for how well they have played without one of their best players in Bennie Boatwright, but I don't see the run continuing here against one of the best teams in the country, especially now that the Trojans are playing their 3rd game in 3 days.  

Arizona has won 4 straight and are 7-1 in their last 8. Any concerns about this team being hurt by all the off the court drama that's going on can be thrown out the window. If anything, it has brought this team together and have them playing with a bit of a chip on their shoulder.

The Wildcats made easy work of the Trojans in the lone meeting this season, winning by 14 on their home floor. It could have been a lot worse, as Arizona shot 56% from the field and finished with a +18 edge on the boards. Those are two great signs that the Wildcats are the far superior team and will have no problem getting the win here. Take Arizona! 

5* NCAAB Vegas Insider TOP PLAY on Houston -

I like the value here with the Cougars in Friday's American Athletic action, as I think Houston wins this by double-digits no problem. The Cougars have been one of the best kept secrets in the country. Houston finished 24-6 and were 14-4 in the AAC. They went 8-1 over their last 9 games and several of those were close. 

UCF comes in off back-to-back wins over Tulane and East Carolina, with the win over the Pirates coming in yesterday's AAC Tournament action. That's important to note, as Houston got a bye and will have a big rest advantage here with the Knights playing for the 2nd time in 2 days. The only meeting between these two teams this season came at UCF, which the Cougars won 69-65. 

The Knights are a mere 1-8 ATS in their last 9 road games after covering the spread in 3 of their last 4 games and 1-8 ATS in their last 9 road games after playing 2 straight games as a favorite. Take Houston! 

5* NCAAB No Limit TOP PLAY on Davidson -

I like the value here with the Wildcats in Friday's A-10 action against the Billikens. Davidson saved it's best basketball for late in the year, as they closed out the regular season on a 8-2 run with the only two losses coming at Rhode Island (A-10 regular season champs) and at St. Bonaventure (finished 2nd in A-10) in triple-overtime. 

These two teams played just once in the regular-season. Davidson won that contest at home 54-51. Note that was back before they caught fire, so there's every reason to expect a larger margin of victory tonight, especially given the rest advantage for the Wildcats. Davidson didn't have to play yesterday, while St Louis had to take on George Washington. Look for that to play a big part in the Wildcats winning here by more than the number. Take Davidson! 

5* NCAAB SEC GAME OF THE MONTH on Kentucky -

I love the value here and spot for the Wildcats, as they will take on Georgia in the quarterfinals of the SEC Tournament. Kentucky defeated the Bulldogs in the lone meeting this season and have won 10 straight in the series overall. 

This is a big spot for the Wildcats, who are going to want to bounce back with a strong showing here after an ugly double-digit loss at Florida to close out the regular season. Georgia just isn't a team I feel that can compete with Kentucky given the circumstances. While the Bulldogs will be playing their 3rd game in 3 days, the Wildcats will be playing their first game of the tournament after receiving a double-bye. This is a statement game for Kentucky and I expect them deliver with a convincing win. Take Kentucky! 

5* NCAAB A-10 GAME OF THE MONTH on St. Joe's -

I love the value here with the Hawks in Friday's A-10 action against George Mason. St. Joseph's closed out the regular-season on a tear, going 6-1 in their final 7 games, which includes that impressive 78-48 win at Rhode Island as a 13.5-point dog. I look for the Hawks to have zero problem making easy work of the Patriots. 

George Mason is at a big disadvantage here in terms of rest. While St. Joseph's got a bye for yesterday's action, the Patriots had to take on UMass. It wasn't an easy win, as George Mason escaped with a 75-70 victory. I just don't see them having enough left in the tank here and we know we are going to get the very best the Hawks have to offer. St Joseph's is playing with double-revenge from two extremely close losses to the Patriots, losing by 2 at George Mason and by 3 at home. 

Hawks haven't played since last Saturday and are 16-5 ATS in their last 21 games when playing only their 2nd game in a week. They are also 11-2 ATS in their last 13 away from home when they come in having won at least 6 of their last 8 games. Take St. Joseph's! 

5* NCAAB MWC GAME OF THE MONTH on Boise State

I like the value here with the Broncos in Thursday's MWC action against the Aggies. Boise State was by the far better team during the regular season. The Broncos went 23-7 with a 13-5 mark in the MWC, while Utah State was just 16-15 with a 8-10 mark in conference play. The Aggies defeated Colorado State 76-65 yesterday, but that was to be expected. 

Now Utah State is being forced to play on no rest, while the Broncos are playing on 4 days of rest. Boise State is going to want to play well in this tournament after going just 3-3 down the stretch. They will also be extremely motivated here playing with revenge from a loss in the last meeting with Utah State. 

The Aggies have won and covered their last two games, but are a mere 2-12 ATS in their last 14 after successfully covering the spread in 2 straight games. They are also a mere 5-15 ATS in their last 20 road games against a good team that's won between 60% and 80% of their games. Take Boise State! 

5* NCAAB Vegas Prime Time TOP PLAY on Duke

I like the value here with the Blue Devils in Thursday's showdown with Notre Dame in the quarterfinals of the ACC Tournament. There's no question that the Irish are a different team with Colson in the lineup and likely deserve to be included in the NCAA Tournament regardless if they win this game or not. 

Either way, I don't think they will have enough gas left in the tank to keep this game competitive against what should be a very motivated Duke side. Notre Dame had to play in the opening round on Tuesday and scratched out a 67-64 win over Pitt. They then miraculously rallied from 21 down in the 2nd half in yesterday's win over Va Tech.

The Irish will be playing their 3rd game in 3 days against a Duke team that received a double-bye and hasn't played since Saturday. The Blue Devils will cruise to an easy win and cover tonight. Take Duke! 

5* NCAAB Pac-12 GAME OF THE MONTH on Arizona -

I like the value here with the Wildcats in Thursday's Pac-12 Tournament action against Colorado. I just think all the outside noise that has surrounded this program of late with head coach Sean Miller and a couple of their star players, has brought Arizona closer together as a team and have them poised for a great postseason run. This is without a doubt one of the most talented teams in the country. 

Colorado comes in off an impressive upset win over Arizona State yesterday, but the Sun Devils have struggled down the stretch. It was only the 5th win away from home all season for the Buffaloes and chances are they won't be able to duplicate that strong performance this afternoon. I think the Wildcats win here comfortably. 

Colorado is a mere 1-7 ATS in their last 8 road games off a win and 4-12 ATS in their last 16 off a win by 10 or more points. Wildcats on the other hand are 12-4 ATS in their last 16 road games after playing their previous game as a home favorite and a perfect 7-0 ATS in their last 7 road games off a conference home win. Take Arizona! 

5* NCAAB ATS No-Brainer TOP PLAY on Clemson -

I like the value here with the Tigers laying a short number against the Eagles in Thursday quarterfinals action of the ACC Tournament. Not only is Clemson the better team, but the Tigers have a major edge here in rest. Boston College will be playing their 3rd game in 3 days, while Clemson has yet to play after receiving a double-bye. 

I still think this Tigers team is being undervalued because of the fact that they lost Donte Grantham for the season, but they have played extremely well without him. Clemson should also be plenty motivated here after losing their regular-season finale at Syracuse, as they will want some momentum going into the NCAA Tournament. It's been a nice run for the Eagles, but it stops here. Take Clemson! 

5* NCAAB Vegas NO LIMIT Top Play on Virginia -

I really like the value here with the Cavaliers covering what I think is a short number against the Cardinals. I know Louisville had Virginia on the ropes last Thursday (blew a 13-point lead 2nd half lead and 4-point edge with less than a second to play), but that was on their home floor. Keep in mind that the Cardinals came into that game not playing well and it's likely the Cavaliers didn't give them the respect they deserved. 

I don't see that being a problem this time around. Virginia will be extremely motivated here to play well, as they don't want to go into the NCAA Tournament off an early exit from the ACC Tournament. This is also a well-rested Virginia squad, who hasn't played since Saturday. Louisville on the other hand could be both emotionally and physically drained after a big win over FSU yesterday, as that was one they had to have for any shot at making the field of 68. 

The Cavaliers ended the regular-season with a win at home over Notre Dame, but did fail to cover the spread. Both are important to note, as they are 7-1 ATS in their last 8 road games off a conference win and 7-1 ATS in their last 8 off a game in which they failed to cover the spread. Take Virginia! 

5* NCAAB Vegas Insider TOP PLAY on Xavier -

I like the value here with the Musketeers covering this spread against the Red Storm on Thursday. Xavier simply isn't getting enough respect here. They went 15-3 in league play with two of those losses coming against Villanova. They swept the season series against St. John's and should have no problem taking them down again. 

Xavier has a history of playing well in games played on a neutral court, as they are 19-7 ATS in their last 26 games played at a neutral site. They are also 14-5 ATS in their last 19 tournament games. While St John's won and covered in the first round yesterday against Georgetown, they are still just 2-6 ATS in their last 8 neutral site games. 

Rest is also a key factor here, as Xavier had a first round bye and will be catching the Red Storm in the 2nd game of a back-to-back set. I just don't think St. John's is capable of playing well enough on no rest to keep this one competitive. Take Xavier! 

5* NCAAB ACC GAME OF THE MONTH on North Carolina -

I love the value here with the Tar Heels laying single-digits against the Orange on Wednesday. North Carolina is one of the best teams in the country and after losing their final two regular-season games are going to be extremely motivated here to play well in the ACC Tournament, so they have some kind of momentum going into the NCAA Tournament. 

As for Syracuse, they got a huge win yesterday in the opening round against Wake Forest. They still likely need to win here to get in, but I don't see it happening. The Orange simply don't have the offensive fire-power to keep this close and it's only going to be that much harder with tired legs  on rest. 

Syracuse is a mere 4-12 ATS in their last 16 games away from home after a win and are 0-10 ATS in their last 10 road games vs a team that averages 8 or more made 3-pointers a game. Take North Carolina! 

5* NCAAB Vegas NO LIMIT Top Play on NC State - 

I like the value here with the Wolfpack laying a short number against the Eagles. NC State really closed out the season strong. They went 5-1 SU and 5-1 ATS over their last 6 games. The lone hiccup coming in a game at Georgia Tech, where they simply didn't show up to play. I don't see any concern here with NC State showing up. 

The Wolfpack offensively are absolutely rolling right now. They are average 83 ppg over their last 5 and haven't scored fewer than 70 points in a game since the middle of January when they put up just 51 at Virginia. 

Another key here is the rest advantage for the Wolfpack, who received a first round bye, while the Eagles had to suit up yesterday and take on the Yellow Jackets. NC State is also a great tournament team and have gone 30-12 ATS in their last 42 games in the ACC Tournament. 

Adding to all of this is a great system in favor of the Wolfpack. Neutral court favorites who are an explosive offensive team (76+ ppg) that have scored 75+ in 3 straight games are 83-41 (67%) ATS when facing a decent offensive team that averages 74-76 ppg. Take NC State! 

5* NCAAB Colonial GAME OF THE MONTH on Northeastern -

Analysis will be posted shortly

5* NCAAB Big 12 GAME OF THE MONTH on Oklahoma  State +

The Cowboys already went into Lawrence and defeated the Jayhawks 84-79 as a huge 12-point dog. I see no reason why we shouldn't expected a similarly competitive game in the rematch and I think there's an excellent chance Oklahoma State wins this one outright.

Keep in mind there's plenty of incentive here for the Cowboys, not only playing against an elite team and Big 12 regular season champ, but it's also senior day. 

The other big factor here is the spot for Kansas. I don't know that revenge is really on the mind of the Jayhawks here. They are coming off two huge wins at Texas Tech and at home against Texas to lock up yet another Big 12 title.

This game really doesn't mean a whole lot and I think Kansas is going to come out a bit flat, as they start to look ahead to next week's Big 12 Tournament and NCAA Tournament. Take Oklahoma State!

5* NCAAB MAAC GAME OF THE MONTH on Rider -

I like the value here with the Broncs laying what I feel is a short number in the quarterfinals of the MAAC Tournament. Rider earned a share of the MAAC regular-season title with a 15-3 league record. That includes two wins over St. Peter's who finished up 9th in the MAAC with a mere 6-12 record. 

The Peacocks did give the Broncs a scare in each of the meetings this season, but it won't be easy keeping this one close. That's because St. Peter's is at a big disadvantage here playin on no rest after taking on Monmouth last night. A game that went right down to the wire, as the Peacocks escaped with a 60-58 win. I just don't see St. Peter's having enough left in the tank here and the Broncs aren't going to overlook them given how close the previous two games were. 

Last time out Rider played in a shootout, defeating Iona 110-101. That's worth noting, as the Broncs are 11-1 ATS in their last 12 games after allowing more than 90 points. We also see that the Peacocks are a mere 2-7 ATS in their last 9 vs a team with a winning record and 3-8 ATS in their last 11 off a SU win. Take Rider! 

5* NCAAB Vegas NO LIMIT Top Play on Michigan State -

I'm recommending laying the points here with the Spartans in Friday's quarterfinal action of the Big Ten Tournament. Michigan State will face off against the Badgers in the first game of the day and I think they make easy work of them. Wisconsin has been playing well down the stretch and come in having covered 5 straight, but let's not get carried away. This is still a very mediocre team (15-17 overall) and even with yesterday's win over Maryland, they are still a mere 4-10 away from home this season. 

While the Badgers edged out the Terps on Thursday, they shot just 36% from the field. It doesn't figure to get any better on Friday. Wisconsin's offense shot 37% or worse in both meetings against the Spartans during the regular season. I look for Michigan State to turn the defensive intensity up another notch here in tournament play and should be able to provide more than enough offense to pull away and cover this double-digit spread. 

Note that while the Badgers covered at home recently against Michigan State, the Spartans had gone 10-3 ATS in the previous 13 meetings in the series. They also come in with a dominant 22-9 ATS record in their last 13 games vs a team with a losing record. Take Michigan State! 

5* NCAAB Big Ten GAME OF THE MONTH on Michigan -

I love the value here with the Wolverines laying single-digits against the Hawkeyes this afternoon. Iowa was able to pull away late and defeat Illinois 96-87 in the opening round of the Big Ten Tournament on Wednesday. I'm not reading into that performance at all. Michigan has a big time advantage here in rest with the Hawkeyes playing in the 2nd game of a back-to-back and let's not forget they swept the season series. They first won by 7 at Iowa and later won by 15 on their home floor. 

While Iowa was able to knock off the Fighting Illini, this Hawkeyes' team has had a miserable time just keeping games competitive on the road. Iowa's loss at Michigan was one 7 losses away from home in Big Ten play by double-digits. The only two exceptions being against Rutgers and Minnesota, who were the first two teams out of the tournament. 

Iowa's inability to defend should allow the Wolverines to pull away. Iowa is giving up staggering 82.3 ppg away from home, while the Wolverines are only allowing 68.6 ppg away from home and have a more than capable offense. Take Michigan! 

5* NCAAB PAC-12 GAME OF THE MONTH on Colorado +

I absolutely love the value here with the Buffaloes catching points at home against the Bruins. Colorado is a prime bounce back spot after dropping 3 straight. The most recent being a crushing 9-point loss at home to USC. Not only will the Buffaloes come out swinging against one of the top teams in the Pac-12, but there's added incentive here to win on senior day. 

I also think this is a great spot to go against the Bruins. UCLA is a full 2-games back of Arizona for the regular-season Pac-12 title and would need to win out and have the Wildcats lose their final two at home to Stanford and Cal (Bears are a league-worst 2-14 in league play) just to earn a share of the title. They know that's not going to happen, which in turn makes this game less important and more likely that UCLA looks ahead to their big showdown on the road against rival USC to close out the regular-season.

Another key factor here is just how much better Colorado is at home than they are on the road. The Buffaloes have gone 11-3 SU and 9-5 ATS on their home floor this season. UCLA is just 5-7 on the road. Colorado is 8-2 ATS in their last 10 home games vs a team that's won fewer than 40% of their road games, while the Bruins are 2-7 ATS in their last 9 road games vs a team with a winning home record. Take Colorado! 

5* NCAAB Heavy Hitter GAME OF THE MONTH on Yale -

I love the value here with the Bulldogs laying a short number on the road against the Big Red in Friday's Ivy League action. Yale comes in off an ugly loss at Harvard, but had won each of their previous 3 games and I like their chances of bouncing back in a big way here against Cornell. These two teams already played once this season and Yale won by 9 as a 6.5-point home favorite. 

Backing the Bulldogs on the road has been a money-maker, especially when they are laying points. Yale is 12-2 ATS over the last 3 seasons when listed as a road favorite. The Bulldogs have also owned this series, as they are a perfect 8-0 ATS in the last 8 meetings and have covered 6 straight on the road against the Big Red. Take Yale! 

5* NCAAB Vegas NO LIMIT Top Play on Loyola Marymount +

I really like the value here with the Lions catching points on the road against the Broncos. While Santa Clara comes in having won 3 straight, each of the last two came on the road. The Broncos simply don't have a great home court edge and are just 6-10 SU and 4-10 ATS at home this season.

I know Loyola Marymount is just 2-12 away from home, but they have gone 6-5 ATS on the road and Santa Clara is a mere 2-8 ATS in their last 10 home games vs a team with a losing road record. The Broncos are also 9-21 ATS in their last 30 home games off an upset win over a conference opponent and 0-6 ATS in their last 6 home games after 2 or more consecutive wins. Take Loyola Marymount! 

5* NCAAB Colonial (CAA) GAME OF THE YEAR on Hofstra -

I love the value here with the Pride at basically a pick'em against the Dukes on Thursday. Hofstra has been rolling and hasn't got the respect they deserve. That's evident by this low number here and the fact that they have gone 5-1 ATS in their last 6 games. 

Last time out the Pride rolled 88-76 at home over Drexel and are 8-1 in their last 9 road games after a combined score of 155 or more in 2 straight games and a perfect 7-0 ATS in their last 7 road games after a home game where both teams scored 75 or more points. Hofstra is also 12-1 ATS in their last 13 road games with a total set of 150 to 159.5, while the Dukes are a mere 2-9 ATS in their last 11 home games after playing their previous game on the road. 

Adding to all of this is a great system going against the Dukes covering this number. Underdogs off a conference win as a dog of 6 or more are a mere 9-27 ATS (25%) ATS in their next game if facing a team that just scored 80 or more points in a conference win. Take Hofstra! 

5* NCAAB Vegas Insider GAME OF THE MONTH on Fullerton +

I love the value here with the Titans as a short road favorite against the Highlanders in Wednesday's Big West action. CS-Fullerton is simply the superior team and there's just not a big enough home court edge for UC-Riverside to keep this within the number. The Titans are 15-9 overall and 8-4 in league play, while the Highlanders are just 7-19 overall and a mere 2-10 in conference play. 

The fact that Riverside only lost be 3 on the road to Fullerton in the previous matchup this season isn't a big concern for me. The Titans should have won that game going away, as they shot 54% from the field, while holding the Highlanders to just 34% shooting. They also had a +11 edge in rebounding. The big difference in the game was Riverside made 10 3-pointers on 46% shooting. That's unlikely to repeat itself. The Highlanders are shooting just 29.7% from 3-point range at home this season. 

Riverside is a mere 9-22 ATS in their last 31 home games, 3-11 ATS in their last 14 conference home games and 0-6 ATS over the last 2 seasons in home games played in February. Titans are 7-2 ATS in their last 9 road games and 10-2 ATS in their last 12 vs a bad team that's won fewer than 40% of their games. Take CS-Fullerton! 

5* NCAAB Vegas Insider GAME OF THE YEAR on William & Mary +

I like the value here with the Tribe catching a decent number here on the road against Northeastern. William & Mary have been an excellent team to back on the road, as they are 9-3 ATS away from home.

The Huskies on the other hand are a team that has been overvalued basically the entire month of February, as they are 1-5 ATS in their last 6, which includes an outright loss at home to Charleston as a 4-point favorite. 

The Tribe are also a team you want to look to back off a loss, as they have gone 14-5 in their last 19 off a conference loss. They also are great at getting revenge, as they are 11-1 ATS in their last 12 when revenging a loss to an opponent over the last 2 seasons. Take William & Mary! 

5* NCAAB Vegas NO LIMIT Top Play on William Mary +

I love the value here with the Tribe catching points on the road agains the Pride. William & Mary has been a road covering machine this season, as the Tribe are 9-2 ATS away from home. They have also enjoyed the role of the underdog going 8-2 ATS in the 10 games this season when getting points. 

On the flip side of this Hofstra has been a great team to fade at home, as they are a mere 14-36-1 ATS in their last 51 home games. Last time out they lost by 20 as a 3-point road favorite at UNC-Wilmington. That's important to note as they are just 4-13 ATS in their last 17 home games after playing their previous game as a favorite and 2-12 ATS in their last 14 off a game where they didn't cover. Simply put, the Pride are getting way too much respect at home here. Take William & Mary. 

5* NCAAB Big West GAME OF THE MONTH on Riverside +

I'm recommending a play on the Highlanders as a short road dog against the Matadors in Wednesday's Big West action. UC Riverside is going to be out for revenge from an earlier loss at home to Northridge and I believe there's reason they get it. The Highlanders couldn't have shot much worse in that first meeting, as they connected on just 32.1% from the field. Riverside is also a perfect 6-0 ATS in their lsat 6 when revenging a loss as a home favorite. 

I look for a much better showing here against a Matadors defense that comes in having allowed each of their last 2 opponents to shoot better than 50% from the field. Note that Northridge ranks 8th out of 9 teams in the Big West in defensive efficiency. 

I also think this is a good spot to fade the Matadors off a ridiculous shooting game against Hawaii, where they shot 65.1% from the field in an outright win as a 12.5-point dog. Northridge is just 3-12 ATS in their last 15 off a game where they shot 55% or better. They are also a mere 5-13 ATS in their last 18 home games and 0-9 ATS in their last 9 home games when they come in having lost 4 of 5. Take UC Riverside! 

5* NCAAB Colonial Athletic GAME OF THE MONTH on Northeastern +

I love the value here with the Huskies catching points against the Tigers in Saturday's Colonial Athletic showdown. Northeastern comes in having won 2 straight and are 6-2 in their last 8 overall, while Towson has failed to cover the spread in each of their last 4 games. Playing on the road hasn't been a problem for the Huskies, who are 4-1 in their last 5 away from home in CAA action with the only loss a mere 1-point defeat at Drexel. 

One of the big keys to this game will be the edge Northeastern has on the defensive side of the ball. The Huskies have held 5 of their last 6 opponents under 70 points, while Towson has allowed 70+ in 6 straight games, including a whopping 92 points in their last game against the Dragons. The Tigers are just 1-4-1 ATS in their last 6 after giving up 90+ points. Take Northeastern! 

5* NCAAB Vegas NO LIMIT Top Play on Columbia +

I love the value here with the Lions catching points on the road against the Bulldogs. Columbia held on for a 77-74 win at home over Dartmouth, which was a good win coming off that big victory at home over Harvard. The Lions are now 3 -1 in their last 4 with the only loss being a 1-point loss at Cornell. 

Yale on the other hand has dropped each of their last 2 games and are just 1-4 SU in their last 5. The most recent being a 50-59 loss at Penn, which is important to note as the Bulldogs are 2-8 ATS in their last 10 after playing their last game on the road and 0-6 ATS this season off a road loss. Yale is also a mere 2-8 ATS in their last 10 home games, while Columbia is 19-8 ATS in their last 27 road games vs a team that's won 60% or more of their home games. 

Adding to all of this is a great system favoring a play on the Lions. Underdogs of 3.5 to 9.5 points who are off a home win as a favorite where they didn't cover the spread are 27-7 (79%) ATS when playing on Friday over the last 5 seasons. Take Columbia! 

5* NCAAB Late Night GAME OF THE MONTH on San Diego -

I love the value here with the Toreros in Thursday's road game against Pepperdine. San Diego is going to be chomping at the bit to get back in action after losing their last two games, both of which were contested battles against two of the top teams in the conference in Gonzaga and St. Mary's. 

I just don't see the Waves being able to keep this one competitive enough to cover this spread. Pepperdine is just 4-20 overall and a mere 1-11 in conference play. They are just 6-21 ATS in their last 27 vs a team with a winning record and are 0-4 ATS in their last 4 home games vs a team with a winning record. 

The Toreros on the other hand are a great road team, especially when it comes to covering the number. They are 19-7-1 ATS in their last 27 road games overall and a perfect 4-0 ATS in their last 4 road games vs a team with a losing home record. Take San Diego! 

5* NCAAB Big West GAME OF THE YEAR on Poly +

I look for the Mustangs to have zero problem covering this spread on the road against the Titans Thursday. CS-Fullerton simply has no business being this big a favorite in this matchup. These two teams played earlier this season at Cal-Poly and the Titans needed overtime to escape with a 101-97 win, despite shooting a ridiculous 58% from the field in that contest. 

I wouldn't be the least bit surprised if the Mustangs won this game outright. Cal Poly has won each of their last two games, including a 78-64 win over Hawaii as a 4-point home dog in their last game. CS-Fullerton has lost each of their last 2 games at home are just 1-4 ATS in their last 5 home games vs a team with a losing road record. 

Adding to all of this is a great system backing a play on the Mustangs. Underdogs off an upset win by 10 or more points as a home dog, who have 2 more returning starters than their opponent are 54-23 (70%) ATS going all the way back to 1997. Take Cal Poly! 

5* NCAAB Vegas NO LIMIT Top Play on Hofstra +

I love the value here with the Pride as a dog against the Phoenix on Thursday. Hofstra will be out for revenge from a home loss to Elon earlier this season and are 8-3-1 ATS in their last 12 road games vs a team that's won more than 60% of their home games. As for the Phoenix, they are a mere 2-9 ATS in their last 11 home games against a team with a winning road record. 

On top of that we see that Hofstra is 15-4 ATS in their last 19 games when listed as a road dog and 11-1 ATS in their last 12 road games with a total in the range of 150 to 159.5. 

Adding to all of this is a huge system in favor of the Pride. Road underdogs who are evening a loss where they allowed 75+ points in a game that involves two marginal winning teams are 49-21 (70%) ATS over the last 5 seasons. Take Hofstra! 

5* NCAAB West Coast GAME OF THE MONTH on Loyola +

I love the value here with the Lions at basically a pick'em on the road against the Pilots this Saturday. Loyola-Marymount is just 1-5 in their last 6 games, but are fresh off an impressive 76-69 win at home over BYU as a 10-point dog. They have been a lot more competitive than their recent run would suggest, as 4 of those losses were by 7 points or less. 

Not only are we catching the Lions playing with some renewed confidence off that upset win, but they will also come out highly motivated to get revenge from a recent loss to these Pilots. Another big key here is that Portland has a history of not playing well on their home floor. The Pilots are just 4-9 ATS in their last 13 home games and a mere 2-8-1 ATS in their last 11 home games vs a team with a losing road record. Take Loyola-Marymount! 

5* NCAAB Ivy League GAME OF THE  MONTH on Dartmouth +

I love the value here with the Big Green catching points here on the road against the Big Red. The books are just begging for you to take Cornell here with this small number, which only makes me like Dartmouth that much more. The Big Green have lost their last 7 games, but only two of those were at home and they have been a lot more competitive than the skid would lead you to believe. 

The Big Red are getting some love for an upset win at home over Columbia, but let's not forget this is a team that had gone just 1-6 in their last 7 games. Cornell has also not done well in this spot, as they are just 15-32 ATS in their last 47 when listed as a home favorite of 6 points or less. They are also just 9-25-1 ATS in their last 35 after a came where they covered the spread. Take Dartmouth!  

5* NCAAB Vegas INSIDER Top Play on Elon +

I love the value here with the Phoenix catching points on the road against the Tribe. Elon comes in off a 83-76 win at Towson St as a 9-point and I look for them to carry over that momentum in tonight's showdown against William & Mary. The Phoenix will definitely be up for this game, as they have revenge from an upset loss at home to the Tribe a couple weeks back. 

Adding even more value is a great system in play on the Phoenix. Road underdogs of 3.5 to 9.5 points off a conference win as a dog of 6 or more are 27-7 (74%) ATS when facing an opponent off a road win by 3 points or less. Take Elon! 

5* NCAAB Vegas NO LIMIT Top Play on James Madison +

I love the value here with the Dukes catching points on the road against the Dragons. While Drexel comes in off an impressive 68-67 upset win at home over Northeastern as a 6-point dog, I think it works against them here, as it puts in a major letdown spot against at team they lost to already once this season. 

James Madison is also a team that has thrived in the role of the road dog, going 7-1 ATS this season in this spot. Dragons are just 2-12 ATS in their last 14 after playing a game as a home dog, while the Dukes are 6-0 ATS in their last 6 at home vs a team that is giving up 77+ points/game at least 15 games into the season. Take James Madison! 

5* NCAAB No Limit GAME OF THE MONTH  on Riverside +

I love the value here with the Highlanders catching points here on the road against the Mustangs. These are two equally bad teams and I just don't see a big enough home court edge for Cal Poly to be laying this many points. UC Riverside has started out 0-7 in Big West play and I see them being extremely motivated to get that first conference win against a team they can compete against. 

It wouldn't be anything new if the Highlanders pulled off the upset. They have done exactly that each of the last two years. They won 72-68 in 2016 as a 8-point dog and last year won 67-56 as a 5-point dog. Cal Poly is also just 8-22 ATS in their last 30 home games and 3-12 ATS in their last 15 home games vs a team that's won fewer than 40% of their road games. Take UC Riverside! 

5* NCAAB Vegas NO LIMIT Top Play on Marist +

I love the value we are getting here with the Red Foxes as a near double-digit dog at Manhattan on Tuesday. Marist is just 4-17 overall and 1-11 SU in road games this season, but are 4-2 ATS in their last 6 games and have covered 3 of their last 4 on the road and barely missed out on a cover in the one that didn't go their way. 

Manhattan simply isn't a good enough team to be laying this many points. The Jaspers have lost 3 of their last 4 and are just 1-3 ATS during this stretch. Marist has failed to cover 2 of their last 3, but that's a positive, as they are 11-2 ATS in their last 13 road games in this spot. 

Adding to all of this is a great system back a play on the Red Foxes. Underdogs who have won fewer than 20% of their games are 43-17 (72%) ATS when revenging a home loss to an opponent that has a losing record. Take Marist! 

5* NCAAB Vegas NO LIMIT Top Play on San Diego -

I love the value here with the Toreros as a short road favorite against the Lions on Saturday. San Diego comes in off a 66-58 win at home over Santa Clara and I look for them to carry over that momentum here against Loyola Marymount.

This is a game San Diego needs to win with games against Gonzaga and St Mary's looming on deck. That shouldn't be a problem, as the Lions are a mere 1-8 in conference play and are just 4-5 at home this season. Toreros are 15-5 ATS in their last 20 road games, while Marymount is just 1-4-1 ATS in their last 6 home games. Take San Diego! 

5* NCAAB Small Conf GAME OF THE MONTH  on St. Peter's +

I love the value and the spot here with the Peacocks catching a big number here on the road against the Broncs.   St. Peter's comes in having lost 4 straight, but have been a lot more competitive than you would think for a team on a 4-game skid. All 4 losses came by 12-points or less, including a mere 4-point loss at home to Rider. Revenge is a big time motivator in college sports and I wouldn't be surprised at all if the Peacocks returned the favor and won this game outright. 

The road team has dominated this series, going 27-10-2 ATS in the last 39 meetings, with St. Peter's going 4-1 ATS in their last 5 trips to Rider. The Peacocks are also 12-3 ATS in their last 15 road games off a loss. The Broncs are also just 9-21 ATS in their last 30 home games after 3 or more consecutive wins and 5-15 ATS in their last 20 off a close road win by 3 points or less. Take St. Peter's!

5* NCAAB CAA (Colonial) GAME OF THE MONTH on Northeastern +

I love the value here with the Huskies at basically a pick'em here against the Pride. Northeastern is tied with William & Mary on top the CAA and red-hot right now having won 3 straight, which includes a 20-point road win over William & Mary. I look for the Huskies to have no problem here coming away with a win against Hofstra. 

The Pride upset Northeastern on the road earlier this season, which only adds more fuel to the fire here for the Huskies. Hofstra failed to cover in their last game and that's worth noting, as they are just 1-11 ATS in their last 12 home games after failing to cover the spread. The Pride are also just 3-11 ATS in their last 14 home games overall and 3-15 ATS over the last 3 seasonswhen playing for just the second time in a week stretch. 

Adding to all of this is a great system in play on the Huskies. Road teams who are listed at +3 to -3 that are revenging a home loss and have won each of their last 2 games by 10 or more points are 30-9 (77%) ATS over the last 5 seasons. Take Northeastern! 

5* NCAAB Vegas NO LIMIT Top Play on Quinnipiac +

I like the value with the Bobcats at basically a pick'em here against the Red Foxes. While Quinnipiac is just 2-9 on the road, Marist is just 3-5 at home and have just 1 win in their last 6 games. They are also just 2-8 in their last 10 overall. 

Bobcats come into this one off a 76-69 win at home over Siena as a 2-point favorite and are 8-3 ATS in their last 11 games following a contest in which they covered the spread. The Bobcats are also 5-1 ATS in their last 6 vs a team with a losing record, while the Red Foxes are a mere 8-19-1 ATS in their last 28 home games vs a team that's won fewer than 40% of their road games. Take Quinnipiac! 

5* NCAAB 'ACC' GAME OF THE MONTH on Miami -

I love the value we are getting here with the Hurricanes as a short home favorite against the Cardinals. Louisville is getting way too much respect coming off a 4-game winning streak, while Miami isn't getting near enough respect due to the fact that they come in having lost 2 of their last 3. They did however win their last game, going on the road and handing NC State a rare loss on their home floor. 

One of the key factors here is the home court advantage for the Hurricanes, who are 6-1 at home with the only loss coming against Duke in a game they should have won (led by double-digits). Louisville is 15-4 overall, but just 3-3 away from home and I believe this is their biggest road test since losing 61-90 at Kentucky. They also lost 69-74 at Clemson in ACC play. 

Cardinals are also just 9-19 ATS in their last 28 road games after a win, while the Hurricanes are a dominant 20-8 ATS in their last 28 games following a contest where they made 55% or more of their field goal attempts. Take Miami! 

5* NCAAB Vegas NO LIMIT Top Play on LSU +

I love the value here with LSU as a home dog against the Aggies on Tuesday.  Texas A&M comes in having won their last two, but those were home games against Missouri and Ole Miss. Nothing to get excited about. Prior to that they had lost 5 straight and are winless on the road in SEC play with two of the three losses coming by double digits. 

LSU has dropped 3 straight and that's playing into the value here. The Aggies did managed to cover in their most recent win over Missouri, but that's not a good thing for them in terms of covering tonight. Texas A&M is a mere 3-13 ATS over the last 2 seasons after a game where they covered the spread. They are also just 8-18 ATS in their last 26 SEC games and and 2-5 ATS in their last 7 vs a team with a winning record. Take LSU! 

5* NCAAB Late Night GAME OF THE MONTH on Pepperdine +

I love the value here with the Waves as a double-digit dog against the Dons on Saturday. We are simply seeing a big overreaction here by the books due to Pepperdine coming in with a 3-16 record and 0-7 mark in league play. San Francisco hasn't exactly been playing well, as they have lost 3 straight, including a 62-65 loss at home to Santa Clara as a 10-point favorite in their last game.

The Dons are also just 3-7 ATS in their last 10 home games and just 1-5 ATS in their last 6 home games vs a team with a losing record. 

Adding to this is a great system in favor of the Waves. Road teams off 2 straight conference losses by 10 or more and revenging a same season loss are 89-49 (65%) ATS over the last 5 seasons. Take Pepperdine! 

5* NBA Western Conf GAME OF THE MONTH on Rockets +

I like the value here with the Rockets here at home in Saturday's big showdown with the Warriors. James Harden returned to action in Houston's last game and the Rockets cruised to a 116-98 win over a Timberwolves team that had been playing very well. The Rockets might not be able to beat the Warriors in a 7-game series, but I like their chances here at home in this 1-game set, as this one simply means more to Houston than it does Golden State. 

Warriors are overvalued just about every time they take the floor, but even more so when they go up against a good team and the numbers back it up. Golden State is just 3-8 ATS in their last 11 vs a team that's won more than 60% of their games. 

Adding to all of this is a great system in favor of fading the Warriors. Teams off a road win as a favorite where they failed to cover the spread are just 16-40 (29%) ATS in the month of January over the last 5 seasons. Take Houston! 

5* NCAAB Vegas Insider GAME OF THE MONTH on Yale -

I love the value here with the Bulldogs as a short road favorite against the Bears. These two teams come in with similar overall records and each has played only one league game so far. I think it's got Yale way undervalued here. The Bulldogs were expected to give Harvard a run for their money for the Ivy League title, while Brown was picked by many to finish in the bottom 3 of the league. 

It also just so happens that these two teams only league game was against each other with Yale winning 78-72 at home. While the Bulldogs only won by 6, it should have been more, as they shot 50% from the field and the Bears shot only 43.4%. 

I'm not concerned with the change in venue. Yale has been a great road team when in a similar spot to what we see here. The Bulldogs are 33-16 ATS in their last 49 as a road favorite of 6 or less dating back to 1997 and are 11-1 ATS in their last 12 as a road favorite over the last 3 seasons. Take Yale! 

5* NCAAB Pac-12 GAME OF THE MONTH on Oregon State +

I love the value here with the Beavers as a home dog against the Bruins. UCLA will be the popular side, but I don't trust the Bruins on the road in this spot. Last time out UCLA lost at home to Colorado 59-68 as a 11-point favorite. The Bruins have only played 3 true road games and the lone win was against a bad Cal team. 

Oregon State might not look like much on paper, especially given they come in having lost 3 of their last 4, but the Beavers are a vastly improved team. Two of those losses came on the road against Arizona and Arizona State (covered both). The other was a 2-point home loss to Utah. Earlier they beat Colorado at home by 19 and I think their ability to frustrate teams defensively will allow them to pull of the upset here. 

UCLA is just 2-10 ATS in their last 12 off a SU loss, 1-5 ATS in their last 6 road games and 0-4 ATS in their last 4 on the road vs a team with a winning record. Take Oregon State! 

5* NCAAB Vegas INSIDER Top Play on Rider +

I love the value here with the Broncs catching points against the Peacocks. Rider is 11-7 with a 4-2 mark in conference play, while St. Peter's is just 8-9 overall and 2-4 in league play. 

Last time out the Broncs were embarrassed in a 64-91 defeat at Iona, but that puts them in a great spot to rebound and cover against the Peacocks. Rider is 11-2 ATS in their last 13 after allowing 80 or more points and a perfect 6-0 ATS after giving up 90+. 

The Broncs are also 4-1-1 ATS in their lat 6 road games against a team with strong home record of 60% or better. On top of that, the road team in the series is 26-10-2 over the last 38 meetings, with the Broncs going 5-1 ATS in their last 6 trips to St. Peters's. Take Rider! 

5* NCAAB Vegas NO LIMIT Top Play on IUPU Ft Wayne -

I love the value here with the Mastodons as a short road favorite against the Leathernecks. Western Illinois has started out 0-3 in the Summit and that's really not a surprise, as the Leathernecks were the consensus pick to finish in the basement of the league. All 3 losses have come by 12 or more points, including a 21-point loss at home to Nebraska-Omaha as a 3-point favorite. Ft Wayne is 2-2 and last time they beat Nebraska-Omaha at home, which is a good sign that they can make easy work of Western Illinois and cover this spread on the road. 

One thing the Mastodons do well is connect from outside. They come in averaging 10 made 3-pointers per game and that's worth noting as the Leathernecks are just 6-16 ATS in their last 22 vs teams who average 8 or more made 3-pointers. Western Illinois is also just 3-11 ATS in their last 14 home games when playing a team with a winning record. Take IUPU Ft Wayne! 

5* NCAAB 'SEC' GAME OF THE MONTH  on LSU -

I like the value here with the Tigers laying a short number at home against Georgia. LSU has been one of the big surprises early on this season out of the SEC, as not much was expected after last year's 10-21 campaign. Will Wade has done a tremendous job in year one turning the Tigers into a contender and as a result LSU has been a team constantly undervalued by the books. I think that's exactly the case here at home against the Bulldogs. 

Georgia is a good team, but aren't exactly playing well at the moment. They just lost by 7 at home to South Carolina as a 5-point favorite and the game before that they fell by 12 at Missouri. The road struggles have been a theme all season and a big reason why I got no problem laying this short number on LSU here. The Tigers are 7-3 at home and the Bulldogs are a mere 2-6 ATS in their last 8 road games vs a team with a winning home record. 

Georgia's offense has been struggling and have really relied on the defense to keep them a float. In that loss to the Gamecocks, they scored just 57 points and allowed only 64. That's worth bringing up, as the Bulldogs are a miserable 2-11 ATS in their last 13 games after a game where both teams scored fewer than 65 points. Take LSU! 

5* JAC/PIT Divisional Rd GAME OF THE YEAR on Jaguars +

I love the value we are getting here with Jacksonville on Sunday against the Steelers. Say what you want about the Blake Bortles and the Jaguars offense, I think this team is built to have success against Pittsburgh. We saw that first hand in the regular-season, as the Jags went into Pittsburgh and beat the Steelers 30-9. 

Jacksonville's defense made life miserable for Ben Roethlisberger, intercepting him 5 times. That's what everyone talks about, but I think the key to their success in that game was their ability to keep the running game in check. Le'Veon Bell had just 47 rushing yards on 15 attempts and the Steelers as a team only rushed for 70 yards on 20 attempts, which is just 3.5 yards/carry. With the talent they have in the secondary, if they can have similar success against the run, I think Pittsburgh will have a hard time moving the ball. Let's also not forget Antonio Brown is coming off an injury that kept him out the final two weeks of the regular season. 

While there's reason to be optimistic that the Jaguars defense can have similar success against the Steelers offense, I think we could see Jacksonville's offense surprise some people with how well they play. Pittsburgh's defense was one of the best in the NFL early on, but it wasn't the same after they lost Ryan Shazier, especially when it came to stopping the run. If the Jags can have success on the ground, that should open up things for Bortles to make some plays through the air. With all that said, it's not out of the question the Jaguars win this game outright. Take Jacksonville! 

5* NCAAB Situational VEGAS INSIDER Top Play on Towson +

I like the value here with the Tigers catching points on the road against the Tribe. I also think the books are tipping their hand in this one. William & Mary, who are only laying 3-points despite the fact that they come in having won 5 straight and are a perfect 7-0 at home. 

The Tigers have a history of stepping up their game against top level teams on the road. Towson is a perfect 6-0 ATS in their last 6 road games when matched up against top level teams who are outscoring opponents on averaging by 8 or more points/game. The road team is also a solid 6-2 ATS in the last 8 meetings in the series. Take Towson! 

5* NCAAB Vegas NO LIMIT Top Play on St. Peter's

I love the value here with the Peacocks catching points on the road against the Golden Griffins. St. Peter's has owned this series of late, winning 4 of the last 5 meetings, including their last trip to Canisius, as well as their meeting in the MAAC Tournament. Going back even further the Peacocks are 7-3 ATS in their last 10 road games against the Golden Griffins. 

St. Peter's is also a team that has consistently played well on the road against quality opponents, as they are 12-4 ATS in their last 16 road games against a team with a winning home record. They are also working on a 35-16 ATS run in their last 51 conference games and are 10-3 ATS in their last 13 when coming off a game where they covered the spread. 

Not only did the Peacocks cover in their last game, they absolutely destroyed Quinnipiac at home 84-58. That has them in a very profitable situation over the last 5 seasons. Road underdogs off a win by 20 or more at least 15 games into the season are 36-9 (80%) ATS if the game is between two average teams with a +/- 3.5 ppg differential. Take St. Peter's! 

5* NCAAB *WCC* GAME OF THE MONTH on San Diego +

I like the value here with the Toreros at basically a pick'em on the road against the Tigers. San Diego comes in at 12-4, but are fresh off a 63-70 loss at St Mary's, which snapped a 4-game winning streak. I look for the Toreros to bounce back in a big way here against a Pacific team that isn't very good. The Tigers are just 7-10 overall and are a mere 2-6 in their last 8. 

More than anything, Pacific should not be favored here against San Diego. You won't find me complaining. The Toreros are 15-3 ATS in their last 18 road games with an impressive 13-2 ATS mark in their last 15 as a road underdog. Pacific won last time out, which is also a plus, as the Tigers are a mere 2-12 in their last 14 off a win and 1-9 ATS when that win was at home. Take San Diego! 

5* NCAAB *MAAC* GAME OF THE MONTH on Manhattan +

I like the value here with the Jaspers catching points against the Stags. Manhattan has already beat Fairfield once this season. The Jaspers held the Stags to just 35% from the field, while they connected on 59% of their shots. There's simply no reason that Manhattan should be this big of a dog here. In fact, my numbers suggest this should be closer to a pick'em. 

Fairfield is only 8-20 ATS in their last 28 home games following 3 or more consecutive road games and a mere 1-5 ATS in their last 6 following a loss. Jaspers on the other hand are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 vs a team with a winning home record. 

We also have a great system in play backing a fade of the Stags. Home favorites of 3.5 to 9.5 points who are a good free throw shooting team (69-73%) against an average free throw shooting team (65-69%), after 2 straight games - attempting 10+ less free throws than opponent are a mere 16-43 (27%) ATS since 1997. Take Manhattan! 

5* Alabama/Georgia CFB Champ NO LIMIT Top Play on Georgia +

I think we are getting some exceptional value here with the Bulldogs in Monday's national championship game. Because Alabama has been here before and are coming off the more dominant performance in the semifinals, the perception is that they are the better team and the books are going to inflate this line, knowing the public will be on the Crimson Tide. I'm not so sure that Georgia isn't the better team. If anything, this line should be closer to a pick'em than a touchdown, which makes this an easy play for me. 

Don't be fooled by Georgia's struggles defensively against Oklahoma. I don't know that there's a defense in the country that could slow down Baker Mayfield and that Sooners attack. The Bulldogs made some great adjustments at the half and should have a much easier time shutting down Alabama's offense. The Crimson Tide only had 261 total yards and 16 first down the entire game against Clemson and benefited big time by jumping out to a 10-point lead. This Alabama offense simply isn't that good. 

I know the Crimson Tide defense looked like a different animal against Clemson, but let's not forget they had more than a month to prepare for the Tigers and the past two years have looked great defensively in the semifinals and then struggled in the title game. I think the 1-2 punch of Georgia's rushing attack will be the difference, as I think the Bulldogs win this one outright. Take Georgia! 

5* CAR/NO 'Wild Card' GAME OF THE YEAR on Panthers +

I love the value we are getting here with Carolina as a touchdown dog against the Saints in Sunday's NFC Wild Card matchup. Sure, New Orleans won both regular season meetings between these two NFC South rivals, but that only makes me like the Panthers more. You hear it all the time. It's extremely hard to beat the same team 3 straight times in the NFL, especially in the same season. Big key here is we just need the Panthers to keep in within a touchdown. 

Each of the first two meetings the Saints were able to get their running game going, rushing 149 yards in Carolina in Week 3 and 148 at NO in Week 13. Most will just assume that it's going to be the same old story in the playoffs, but I think the more you see a team the easier they become to stop and let's not forget that the Panthers finished the year 3rd in the league against the run, giving up just 88.1 ypg. 

As for Carolina's offense, they will have a big time player maker on the field that didn't play in either of the first two games against the Saints. That's star tight end Greg Olsen, who when healthy has been Cam Newton's favorite target. Last year he led the team with 80 receptions for 1,073 yards. I also think Newton has shown in the past that he can step up and deliver on the big stage and this is a Carolina team that went 7-2 over their finale 9 games. 

It's also worth pointing out that the road team is 23-10 ATS in their last 33 meetings and the underdog has cashed in 6 of the last 7 meetings. Panthers are also 7-3 ATS in their last 10 road games and 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games played in January. Take Carolina! 

5* NCAAB Vegas Insider TOP PLAY on Fairfield +

I like the value here with the Stags catching a big number on the road against the Gaels. I just don't see a whole lot that separates these two teams. Iona is simply getting too much respect here playing at home and the fact that the Stags are coming off an ugly 77-96 loss at Rider. 

The Gaels are just 4-9-1 ATS in their last 14 home games overall and a mere 5-14 ATS in their last 19 home conference games. Iona is also just 3-9 ATS in their last 12 following a SU win and are just 1-5 ATS in their lat 6 games played on Sunday. Stags are 6-2 ATS in their last 8 after allowing 90 or more points in their last game and 23-10 ATS in their last 33 as a road dog of 6.5 to 9 points.  Take Fairfield! 

5* NCAAB 'Ivy League' GAME OF THE MONTH on Dartmouth +

I love the value here with the Big Green catching double-digits here against the Crimson. Dartmouth has gone a miserable 1-6 in road games so far this season, but that's playing into this line. Their losses on the road have actually come by fewer than 10 ppg. Harvard is also just 5-9 on the season and while they are 3-1 at home, their wins at home have come by just around 4 ppg. 

The Big Green have historically been a good team to back when they come in having not exactly played well. Dartmouth is 12-3 ATS over the last 3 seasons when they come in having won just 1 or 2 of their last 7 games. They are also a dominant 7-1 ATS in their last 8 after a SU loss. 

It's also worth pointing out that the Big Green have covered 5 of their last 7 trips to Harvard and the road team is 10-3-1 ATS in the last 14 overall. Take Dartmouth! 

5* NCAAB Vegas NO LIMIT Top Play on Fairfield +

I like the value here with the Stags catching points on the road against the Broncs. Fairfield is coming off a crushing 58-61 loss at Manhattan. The Stags couldn't have played much worse and still almost won the game. Fairfield shot just 35% from the field, while Manhattan shot 49%. I expect a much better showing here offensively from the Stags against a Broncs defense that has allowed 76+ in each of their first two conference games. 

Fairfield has covered 14 of the last 17 meetings in the series, including 3 of the last 4. They are also a perfect 4-0 SU in the last 4 meetings, including a 2-0 SU mark in their last 2 at Rider. The Broncs are also just 6-19 ATS in their last 25 home games after a road game where both teams scored 75+ and  just 8-20 ATS in their last 28 home games after 3 or more straight games on the road. Take Fairfield! 

5* NCAAB *Big West* GAME OF THE MONTH on Riverside +

I love the value here with the Highlanders as a near double-digit dog on the road against the Titans. In the last 8 meetings in the series UC-Riverside has won 5 times and all 3 losses have come by fewer than the spread listed here.

In fact, the Highlanders are 15-2 ATS in their last 17 meetings at UC Fullerton, as the road team is 23-6 ATS in the last 29 meetings overall. In last year's meeting at the Titans Riverside was a 7.5-point dog and won outright 71-63. I see no reason why not to expect a close game here and wouldn't be shocked at all if the Highlanders won this game outright. Take UC Riverside! 

5* New Year's Day GAME OF THE YEAR on Alabama -

I think we are getting some outstanding value here with the Crimson Tide laying less than a field goal, as I not only think Alabama wins this game, but does so convincingly. This is a massive revenge spot for the Crimson Tide, who lost to the Tigers in last year's championship game. 

A couple big differences this time around. Unlike the last two years when these two teams played in the title game, this time they meet in the semifinals. Instead of having just 1 week to prepare for Clemson, Alabama now has had a month to put together a game plan for the Tigers. The other big difference is Clemson no longer has Deshaun Watson at quarterback. No disrespect to Kelly Bryant, who has a better year than most expected, but he's no where close to being the same player as Watson and with how good this Alabama defense is against the run, he's got to play exceptional for them to win. 

There's plenty of talk about Clemson and their dominant defensive front, but they have been loaded on that side of the ball each of the last two years and Alabama has had no problem moving the ball on them. Last year the Tide rushed for 221 yards on 34 attempts (6.5 yards/carry) and put up 45 on them the year before. I just don't think the Tigers can keep pace offensively without Watson behind center. Take Alabama! 

5* AFC NORTH GAME OF THE MONTH on Bengals +

I love the value here with Cincinnati catching double-digits against the Ravens on Sunday. Baltimore is getting way too much respect here due to the fact that they have gone 5-1 in their last 6 games and are the only team with something to play for. The thing is, Baltimore's recent run has come against a very soft schedule, as the 5 wins are against the Packers (without Rodgers), Texans, Lions, Browns and Colts. 

While the Bengals come in off a 26-17 win over the Lions, I still think they are undervalued due to their previous two games, where they lost 7-33 at home to the Bears and 7-34 at Minnesota. This team rallied and played one of it's best games last week in what most expected to be the final home game for head coach Marvin Lewis. I expect another big effort here in what will likely be Lewis' last game at the helm of the Bengals. 

Baltimore's also not the type of team that should be laying double-digits. While the offense has been better of late, they are still extremely limited on that side of the ball. You also have to factor in the increase in production has come from the soft schedule. This Bengals defense did an outstanding job against the Ravens defense earlier in the year, limiting them to just 268 yards and 20 points, despite the offense turning it over 5 times. I think they do enough here to keep this close and maybe even win the game outright. 

Cincinnati is 17-7 ATS in their last 24 games in December and are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 road games against a team with a winning home record. Ravens are just 2-5 ATS in their last 7 against a team with a losing record and are 0-4 ATS in this spot when playing at home. Take Cincinnati! 

5* NCAAB *CAA* GAME OF THE MONTH on Drexel +

I like the value here with the Dragons catching a decent number here on the road against the Phoenix. Drexel comes in at just 6-7, but I've liked what I've seen from this team in non-conference play. They beat Houston 84-80 on a neutral court as a 14-point dog and won at LaSalle as a 12-point dog. They also lost by just 3-points in a true road game against Temple as a 16-point dog. 

Elon has started out 8-5, but most have their success has come against a soft schedule. The Phoenix did pull off an upset in their last game against Indiana State, but are just 2-10 ATS in their last 12 games following a SU win. This is also Elon's first home game after playing 4 straight on the road and they are 0-5 ATS in their last 5 home games after playing 3 or more consecutive road games. 

It's also worth noting that the road team is 7-1 ATS in the last 8 meetings and the Dragons are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 trips to Elon. Take Drexel! 

5* NCAAF Bowl (Cotton) GAME OF THE MONTH on Ohio State -

I don't just think the Buckeyes will beat USC, I'm confident they win here by double-digits. Ohio State is hands down the best team that didn't make the playoffs and I'm not buying this team isn't going to show up for this game because they got left out after winning the Big Ten Championship. The fact that the opponent here is USC will be more than enough to get the Buckeyes full attention. 

Coaching is a big factor in these bowl games and there's no question Ohio State has the coaching edge here with Urban Meyer over the Trojans Clay Helton. Meyer knows how to get his teams prepared for bowl games, as he's got a 10-3 record over his coaching career. Yes, they laid an egg in last year's playoff game against Clemson, losing 31-0, but I believe that only adds fuel to the fire. 

For me this comes down to the line of scrimmage and I think the Buckeyes will dominate on both sides. Ohio State held opposing teams to just 3 yards/carry and 1.6 yards/carry less than what their opponents averaged. On the flip side of this, the Buckeyes averaged 5.9 yards/carry on offense, which was 1.6 yards/carry more than what their opponents typically gave up. I don't think there's any questioning their ability to run the ball after they put up 238 yards on Wisconsin and 226 yards on Michigan in their last two games. It reminds me a lot of USC's game against Notre Dame, where they were outmanned at the line of scrimmage on both sides of the ball and the Buckeyes are better than the Irish. Take Ohio State!