Sports Picks & Predictions

*3 Star TGIF NBA Bookie CRUSHER* By now you all know the Cavs have lost a record 25 straight games. Cleveland is horrible about giving up wide open looks, but they do have a way of forcing some turnovers and getting quick buckets off them. The Cavs three-point defense is atrocious. Opponents are hitting an amazing 43% from long-distance against Cleveland. Another big weakness for the Cavaliers is rebounding. The Clippers have a terrific offensive rebounding team, and I expect guys like Blake Griffin and DeAndre Jordan to get lots of second chance opportunities in this game. The Clippers defense has been really bad on the road, and I think the Cavs will be fighting hard in this one. The over is 9-3-1 in the Clippers last 13 road games. The over is 5-0 in Cleveland's last 5 home games. I like the over in this game.

*3 Star Under the Radar Total* The Denver Pioneers are an interesting team, because they basically just kill the clock all possession long, but they are pretty efficient on offense. Florida Atlantic is the best defensive team in the Sun Belt, and they slow the tempo as well. I expect this to be the type of game where the total number of shots from the floor is well under 100. Florida Atlantic will extend their defense to try and prevent Denver from getting comfortable beyond the arc. Neither team gets second chance opportunities so it should be one and done in this game. I like this one to stay very low scoring. Take the under.

*3 Star Pac 10 Bookie CRUSHER* The Cal Golden Bears have decided to just start running more than ever of late, which plays right into Washington's hands. Washington is coming off a three game losing streak on the road, and they'll want to get healthy in this game. I think Washington will fly up and down the floor in this one, and it wouldn't surprise me to see Washington score 90-95 points in this game. The over is 13-3-1 in Cal's last 17 games. The over is 8-3 in Washington's last 11 home games. The over is 8-1 in the last 9 meetings between these two. Take the over.

*3 Star NCAA BB Totals Takedown* The Arkansas State Red Wolves struggle to score, especially on the road. Louisiana Monroe is one of the worst teams in the Sun Belt, and they basically stall and attempt to win a close game at the end. Arkansas State beat La. Monroe 62-61 earlier this year in Jonesboro. Interestingly, even though they only got to 123 points in that game, both teams shot better than their season average from the floor. I think this game stays in the halfcourt and goes down to the wire again. I like this one to stay near 120 points. Take the under.

*3 Star NCAA BB Best Bet* The Tennessee Tech Golden Eagles have a way of speeding up the game against everyone they play. Through most of the year, Murray State has played at a slow tempo, but they have sped up at times lately. Murray State put up 92 points against TN Tech the first time, and they scored 96 and 92 against SE Missouri State and Tennessee-Martin at home in the last few weeks. Tennessee Tech gives up 75 points per game on the year. I think Murray State will get to 80 points in this one, and I believe Tennessee Tech gets to the mid 60's at least. I really like the over in this game.

*3 Star College Hoops Total DOMINATION* The Detroit Titans push the tempo more than any other team in the Horizon League. Detroit's Ray McCallum can get to the basket and the free throw line very often. Valparaiso went into Detroit and beat the Titans earlier this year, and I think Detroit will be fired up to try to get revenge here. Valparaiso is very tough at home, and they have a couple guys in Brandon Wood and Erik Buggs who can score in bunches. I expect this to be a tight game throughout, and I think there will be a lot of trips to the charity stripe. I think this one has a good chance to get to about 150, so I like the over.

*3 Star Sun Belt Super Total* The Troy Trojans are a team that blazes up and down the floor no matter who they play against. South Alabama is a team that has shown they often play to the style of their opponent. The Jaguars of South Alabama average 76 points per game at home and Troy allows 80.5 points per game. The over is 14-5 in Troy's 19 lined games this year and the over is 5-2 in South Alabama's 7 home games. These two met earlier this year and the total finished at 161 despite average shooting numbers. I like the value on the over in this game.

*3 Star Texas/Oklahoma Bookie BEATDOWN* Any idea who has the #1 ranked defense in the country? It is indeed the Texas Longhorns. Rick Barnes' team has some great talents on offense as well, but the reason they are consistently winning is their great defense. The under is 7-2 in Texas' last 9 road games. The under cashed in easily in the Longhorns meeting with Oklahoma earlier this year. I just don't see the Sooners putting up more than 60 points or so against this Texas team. I like the under in this one.

*3 Star Missouri Valley Total* Illinois State has been an 'under' machine at home of late. This year the under is 12-2 in their 14 home games. The under is 20-6 in their last 26 home games dating back to last year. Illinois State controls the tempo much more at home, which should mean this game stays in the halfcourt. Indiana State doesn't have the great shooters to light it up from the outside very often, and I think this game will end up being a slow paced tight game all the way throughout. Take the under.

*3 Star NBA Play of the Day* The New York Knicks are a team that often settles for the three-pointer quite often, which can hurt them at times. The Clippers allow opponents to shoot 37.6% from beyond the arc, so I think the Knicks three-point shooting will be a plus in this game. The Clippers should get plenty of second chance opportunities against a Knicks team that struggles on the defensive glass. The first meeting between these two finished at 239 points earlier this year, but I don't think the shooting numbers will be that high once again. Having said that, I think there is a good chance this game gets to 220 points, so I like the value on the over.

*3 Star Hiddem GEM Total* The Towson Tigers are a team I really like to play the 'over' with. Towson forces the tempo and they have a terrible defense. Northeastern has typically been a slow paced team, but in their last couple games they have sped up quite a bit. Northeastern shoots three's very well, and Towson is one of the worst in the nation at defending beyond the arc. The over is 7-1 in Northeastern's 8 home games this year. I think this one gets into the mid 140's, so I like the value on the over.

*3 Star MAC Totals Takedown* The Ball State Cardinals are a defensive-minded team. They have had a couple high-scoring games recently, but that has been because their shooting percentages have been extremely high. Ball State typically attempts to slow down the game, and Bowling Green is a fairly slow paced team as well. I think the possession count will be pretty low in this one, and I think the fact that both teams struggle from beyond the arc will make this one a low-scoring affair. I like this one to stay in the low 120's. Take the under.

*3 Star Under the Radar Totals Winner* The College of Charleston Cougars are a team I've watched closely this year. Charleston can score points in bunches, and they have a very efficient offense. Elon is a team that likes to push the tempo and I don't think Charleston will attempt to slow things down at all. Elon has no one that matches up well against Charleston's primary scorer, Andrew Goudelock. Goudelock is more than capable of putting up 30 points in a game. I think Elon will play spirited in front of the home crowd, but they'll have to put up points to stick with Charleston. I like the over.

*3 Star College Hoops Total DOMINATION* The Clemson Tigers are a completely different team this year. Gone is Oliver Purnell's pressing fast-paced team and in is Brad Brownell's defensive-minded slow paced style of basketball. Boston College actually plays at a pretty slow pace as well, but their shooting numbers are very good on the year. I think Clemson will play solid defense tonight and hold them below their season average. The first time these two met the teams shot very well and there were a ton of free throw attempts, which pushed it up to 144 points. I think at home Clemson will control the tempo and make this a halfcourt game. The under is 4-0 in Clemson's last 4. Take the under in this ACC battle.

*3 Star NBA Total DOMINATION* The Minnesota Timberwolves and Houston Rockets may be the two fastest paced teams in the NBA right now. The positive also is that both of these teams get to the free throw line early and often. Kevin Martin is instant offense for the Rockets, and Kevin Love and the Timberwolves get a lot of second chance opportunities. These two teams have met twice this year and the total finished at 214 and 254 points. Who will want to slow this game down? I just don't see either team slowing the pace. As long as the shooting percentages are decent I think this one gets over the posted total. I like the over!

*3 Star NBA Bookie CRUSHER* The Toronto Raptors are struggling mightily on offense right now. The Bucks have picked up their defensive intensity a lot over the last couple weeks. Milwaukee's games average just 181 points on their home floor. The Raptors shooting percentages have been terrible, and they push it less right now since Bayless and Barbosa are hurt. The Bucks defense should hold the Raptors down in this one, and I think Milwaukee will make sure the pace stays quite slow. These two met on January 28th and the game went over, but the shooting percentages were extremely high (Milwaukee shot 55.3% from the floor) and there were 63 free throws attempted. I think the value is on the under in this game.

*3 Star NCAA BB Total Moneymaker* The Central Michigan Chippewas have been a team I've followed closely this year. I have cashed in several times on the 'under' in their games. The under is 11-1 in their 12 lined road games this year. Central Michigan is averaging 48.7 points per game in their last six road contests. They are playing a Buffalo team that can certainly score at home, but I think the oddsmakers have adjusted the total higher for that. Buffalo should hold Central Michigan down defensively, and I'm guessing they have a pretty good lead at the end and we'll avoid the late fouls. Take the under.

*3 Star Hidden GEM Totals Winner* Both of these teams struggle mightily on the offensive end. Jacksonville State is the slowest paced team in the Ohio Valley Conference. When these two got together a couple weeks ago, the total finished at 131, but that was with an 85 point second half and tons of fouling at the end of the game. I actually think that game is giving us some improved value on the 'under' in this one. I don't expect either team to push the tempo in this one, and the shooting percentages should drop from their last meeting as well. I like the value on the under here.

*3 Star NBA Play of the Day* Until the Cavaliers show they can play just a little bit of defense it seems fair to lean toward the 'over' in their games. Six of their last seven games have gone above this posted total. The Mavericks are on a roll right now, having won eight games in a row. Nowitzki appears to be healthy once again, and I think he'll have a field day tonight. Peja Stojakovic is expected to make his Dallas debut tonight, and I think he'll find plenty of open looks from three in this one. Cleveland will force the tempo as they always do, and they'll probably get beat badly once again. I think Dallas puts up 110 points or more in this one. Take the over.

*3 Star NCAA BB Totals Terrorizer* The Eastern Illinois Panthers are without one of their best offensive players, Tyler Laser. Eastern Illinois is a team that likes to keep the tempo very slow, and Murray State has done the same thing this season. In their first meeting this year, Eastern Illinois stunned Murray State on the road. Murray State will definitely be looking for revenge here. I think Eastern Illinois will struggle to score in this game. In their last five contests, EIU is averaging just 61 points per game. I think the pace here stays slow, and the two teams shoot a little worse than they did in the first meeting this year. The under is 38-18-1 in Eastern Illinois' last 57 games overall. I like this one to stay under.

*3 Star Pitt/West Virginia Total DOMINATION* This rivalry game always brings out the best in both teams. Pittsburgh will be without their leading scorer, Asthon Gibbs, and I think that will definitely disrupt their offense. West Virginia has become a very good defensive team this year, but they struggle on the offensive end. Casey Mitchell may be their best player, but his minutes are being limited now because of off the court issues. I think this is the type of game where the pace stays very slow because of the absence of Gibbs, and I think both teams will struggle from the floor as well. The under is 6-2 in Pitt's last 8 road games. The under is 5-0 in West Virginia's last 5. I expect a hard-fought defensive battle in this one. Take the under.

*3 Star Super Bowl Bookie BEATDOWN* The Pittsburgh Steelers and the Green Bay Packers will meet for Super Bowl 45. This should be a terrific game between two very deserving teams. The first thing that struck me about this game is how strong the two defenses are. The Steelers are first in the league in points per game allowed and the Packers are second.

Aaron Rodgers and the Green Bay Packers have a very good offense. I think the Packers will be able to throw the ball some on the Steelers, but in the end their lack of a running game against the top ranked rushing defense in the league will make them awfully one-dimensional. If the Packers are too one-dimensional the Steelers certainly have the front seven capable of getting after Rodgers. On other side, Ben Roethlisberger and the Steelers offense is a more balanced attack. Rashard Mendenhall will probably get his yards here, and I think Pittsburgh will do their best to run it pretty often in this game. Green Bay has a great pass rush and the Steelers offensive line has struggled with teams like this all year.

The Packers games with the Bears and the high-flying Eagles both stayed well under this total. The Steelers lit up the scoreboard against the Ravens, but their game with the Jets stayed under this posted total. The under is 5-1 in the last six Super Bowl games. I like the value on the under in this one!

*3 Star College Hoops Total Domination* The Wisconsin Badgers are probably my single favorite team to bet an 'under' with. Bo Ryan's team using the shot clock more than anyone in the country, and they play solid defense as well. Michigan State was the preseason #2 team in the country, and they have been absolutely terrible this year. The Spartans have turned the ball over constantly, and they have been an absolute mess in the halfcourt. Wisconsin is the type of team that forces you to play at their pace and style of game, which is slow and of the halfcourt variety. The first time these two teams got together the game went over the total, but only because the game went into overtime. In regulation the score was 53-53. The under is 5-1 in Michigan State's last 6 road games. The under is 24-11 in Wisconsin's last 35 Big Ten games. I like the under here.

*3 Star NCAA BB Late Night BAILOUT* The San Diego State Aztecs have one of the best defenses in the nation. TCU recently suspended their point guard, Ronnie Moss, who was the man who pushed the tempo for the team. I think TCU will slow down quite a bit now, and I really think TCU will struggle to score in this one. These two got together earlier this year and the final was 66-53. The under is 8-2 in SD State's last 10, and even their games against high octane offenses like BYU and Colorado State stayed under this total. I like the under in this one.

*3 Star Late Night Bookie BEATDOWN* The Nevada Wolfpack weren't very good at all to start the year, but they have improved, especially on the offensive end, largely because of Olek Czyz. Czyz has been eligible for the last few games, and he really helps their offense get rolling. San Jose State is a team that likes to run when given the opportunity, and Adrian Oliver is one of the leading scorers in the nation. Both teams get to the line frequently, and I expect this to be a close game with a lot of free throw attempts. The over is 7-2 in SJ State's last 9. The over is 7-1 in Nevada's last 8 home games. The over is 5-0 in the last 5 meetings. Take the over!

*3 Star OVC Over Play* The Morehead State Eagles have shown a slight tendency to speed up just a little over the last few games. Tennessee Tech pushes the pace more than any other team in the OVC. When these two met at Morehead State it ended 76-64 and the shooting percentages were not that good. The average Tenn. Tech home game has finished at 159 points this year. Morehead State will get lots of second chance opportunities, but Tennessee Tech should get lots of open looks from three. I like the over in this one.

*3 Star NCAA BB Totals Cash* The Wyoming Cowboys have all kinds of injuries right now. It is clear over the last few games that their strategy is to slow the tempo down and try to waste the clock on offense. Colorado State has a strong offense, but they haven't been as potent on the road. Wyoming played BYU last game and held the high-powered Cougars to just 69 points in a game that stayed way under the posted total. Games against Utah and New Mexico stayed well under the total, and those are teams that have a good offense. I think Wyoming's defense will be solid here, and they'll slow the tempo down plenty to help this one stay under the posted total.

*3 Star Pac 10 Totals Beatdown* The Washington State Cougars were embarrassed last game by the Oregon Ducks, and I fully expect them to come out ready to play in this one. Oregon State has turned into a team that likes to run and gun, and Washington State should be just fine with that. Klay Thompson is a great scorer and I expect him to put up a big number tonight. These two finished at 84-70 earlier this year, and the shooting percentages weren't terrific. I think we are getting a nice value on the over in this one.

*3 Star Track Meet Total* I just don't see either of these teams slowing the game down at all. The whole premise of Missouri's system is to cause the other team to run and force turnovers, and I think Colorado likes to do just the same. The first meeting between these two was 89-76, and the teams combined to shoot 8 for 27 from the three-point line. I think they'll improve their shooting a bit today and keep the pace that they had in the first meeting. Missouri could definitely put 90 points or more up in a game like this, and I think Colorado will get plenty for the over. I expect more than 160 points here. I really like the over in this one.

*3 Star College Hoops Total DOMINATION* The Stanford Cardinal and the Arizona State Sun Devils are both teams that like to slow the game down and control the tempo. These two met earlier this year and the final score was 55-41. There were only a total of 93 shots taken from the field in that game. The line for that game was set at 121, and we are able to get the same line today. The under is 21-7-1 in Stanford's last 29 games. I think this one stays at 115 or lower. Take the under.

*3 Star Ivy League Totals Winner* The Columbia Lions have really decided to push the tempo this year, and I don't think the books have caught up with them just yet. Last night their game went well over the posted total, and Yale is a team that can score in bunches on their home court. I like the over in this game.

*3 Star Duke/NC State Total Beatdown* The Duke Blue Devils have the ability to put up 90 plus points every time out. They scored 92 last time against NC State, and I think they'll score 90 again this time. NC State has decided to push the tempo much more this season, and Duke will be just fine with that. Expect a fast paced game here, which should help push it over the posted total.

*3 Star NCAA BB Total Value* The Eastern Kentucky Colonels have been an 'under' machine on the road this year. The under is 10-1 in their 11 lined road games. They seem to slow the tempo down much more when they are on the road. Jacksonville State is not a good team at all, and they struggle to score. I think this is the type of game that is played in the halfcourt, with fewer than 100 shots total taken. I like this one to stay under the total here.

*3 Star Hidden Gem Totals Winner* The Kent State Golden Flashes may be the best team in the MAC this year, and they are very solid at home. Central Michigan is not good at all, and they struggle mightily to score on the road. The under is an amazing 10-1 in 11 lined road games this year. In their last four road games they have scored 56,55,38, and 43 points. The game where they scored 56 also included an overtime. Kent State's defense is strong, and I don't think either team will push the tempo here. I like this one to stay under because I think Kent State will hold C. Michigan to 50 points or fewer. Take the under.

*3 Star SEC Super Total* The Alabama Crimson Tide are one of the best defensive teams in the nation this year. Anthony Grant has this team playing great defense for 40 minutes each game. They are giving up just 57 points per game. Tennessee isn't too powerful offensively this year, and they will be without Scotty Hopson, who averages 17 points per game. The Volunteers are strong defensive, especially at home. I like this one to stay under the posted total.

*3 Star UNLV/BYU Totals Terrorizer* You've probably heard about Jimmer Fredette, but he truly is something special. The ability to shoot it from way downtown and take it to the hoop is very difficult to defend. Earlier this year BYU went into Las Vegas and poured it on against UNLV. The truth is, the shooting percentages in that game weren't too terribly high and they still got to a final of 89-77. BYU will run at every opportunity in this game, and both teams are good at getting to the line often. I expect UNLV to play inspired basketball and stick around for at least a while. I projected this one in the low 150's, so I like the value on the over.

*3 Star Horizon Hot Toal* The Detroit Titans are a team fully capable of putting up 80 points or more, especially on their home floor. Detroit is averaging 77 points per game at home this year. Loyola Chicago is a strange team in that they actually average more points per game on the road than they do at home, which bodes well for this over. These two met earlier this year and it was 83-71. I think another game close to 150 is quite likely here. Take the over.

*3 Star Atlantic 10 Totals Takedown* The Charlotte 49ers lost several key players earlier this year, but they have been able to battle back and pick up some nice wins (Tennessee, and Georgia Tech on the road) by playing tough defense. This team allows opponents to hit just 29% on three-pointers, and George Washington does rely on the three quite a bit. George Washington and Charlotte are two of the slower paced teams in the Atlantic 10, and when they get together I think we'll see a halfcourt game that stays under. Take the under here.

*3 Star Early Bird Totals Winner* The Oklahoma State Cowboys are a much less high-powered team on offense this year than they have been in recent years. This is a team that thrives on tough defense and playing a halfcourt game. Oklahoma is fairly efficient on offense, but they don't push the pace. I don't think either team has the personnel to push the tempo much in this one. I like this one to stay under 130, so I'm taking the under.

*3 Star West Coast Total Takedown* The San Diego Toreros are just a terrible team this year. They have been able to slow teams down a little better on their home floor so far this year, and I think this line is set at a generous price for the 'under'. Loyola is much more dangerous on offense at home, and I think San Diego has a shot to stay in this game all the way if they keep the tempo as slow as possible. I look for the Toreros to dictate the pace here. The under is 8-2 in San Diego's last 10 home games. Take the under.

*3 Star WAC Total Value* The San Jose State Spartans are a different team with a healthy Adrian Oliver, and right now he is back and fully healthy. Oliver is the best scorer in the league, and he helps this team push the tempo very well. Idaho is a much improved squad, and they play well on their home floor. These two have a history of playing high scoring games against each other in recent years. In fact, each of their last three meetings has gone above this posted total of 137 points. Expect a tight game with plenty of free throws. Take the over.

*3 Star Late Night Total BAILOUT* The UC Irvine Anteaters are a team I love playing the 'over' with this year. The team has changed their philosophy over the last year or so, and the books just haven't caught up to it yet. The over is 17-6-3 in UC Irvine's last 23 games overall. CS Fullerton is a much more dangerous team offensively on their home floor. The over is 8-3 in their last 11 home games. These two met and put up 163 a month ago, and I think another game close to 160 is pretty likely. I like the over here.

*3 Star College Hoops Total DOMINATION* The Washington Huskies definitely know how to push the pace of a game, and Oregon State plays at a breakneck pace this year as well. In Washington earlier this year these two put up 175 points. While I don't expect that kind of output, when I saw this number I had to jump on the over in a big way. Oregon State's defense won't be able to contain Isiah Thomas, but Oregon State should put up some points on their home floor. I see this one getting to at least 158-160 points, so I like the value on the over.

*3 Star Sun Belt Super Total* The Florida International Golden Panthers love to push the tempo, and Troy can put up the points in a hurry on their home floor. These are probably the two fastest paced teams in the league, and when they get together I fully expect a very high scoring game. The over is 36-16-1 in Fla. International's last 53 games. The over is 10-3 in Troy's last 13 games. I think this one gets to at least 163 or 164 points, so I really like the over in this matchup.

*3 Star Heat/Magic Totals TAKEDOWN* The Miami Heat have shown the tendency to be willing to run a little bit more of late. Now that Wade and James are both healthy I think we might continue to see that a little more. Orlando is a much more powerful team offensively than they were at the beginning of the year. Brandon Bass is out of the lineup today, and I actually think that helps the over. Bass is a pretty good defender, and Ryan Anderson will start in his place. Anderson is a pure shooter from deep. The over is 9-3 in the Heat's last 12 games. The over is 5-1 in the Magic's last 6 games. I like the over in this one.

*3 Star Under Play of the Day* The Denver Pioneers have been a terrific 'under' play on the road for quite some time now. The under is 17-4-1 in their last 22 road games. These two teams did meet and score 142 last month, but that game went into overtime. I think Denver will slow the pace of this game to a crawl, and Little Rock's solid defense will make Denver struggle from beyond the arc. This is the type of game that has the potential to finish at 110 points or even lower. I like the value on the under in this one.

*3 Star Southern Conference Totals Winner* These two teams put up a huge total of 155 points in their first meeting, but that was way out of character and I don't think it will happen again. We've gotten some extra value on the under because of that game. The shooting percentages here should be much lower, and the pace of the game will slow down to their usual pace. I like the under.

*3 Star Duke/Maryland GUARANTEED Cash* This is a really big game for both Maryland and Duke. Duke is coming off a loss at St. John's and they'll need to bounce back. The Maryland Terrapins always play Duke tough, and I expect no different here. Both teams play at an extremely quick tempo. Both teams get offensive rebounds at a high rate, so second chance points should come in bunches. I expect this one to be close to the end, and fouling should put this one over the top. I like the over in this big ACC Showdown!

*3 Star Late Night BAILOUT Total* The Clemson Tigers play an entirely different style this year under Coach Brad Brownell. Clemson likes to slow it down and play tough defense. Virginia is led by Coach Bennett, who is all about slowing the game down and playing defense. I think this is the type of game where both teams will shoot 50 or less shots from the floor. The under is 6-1 in Virginia's last 7 home games. The under is 4-1 in the last 5 meetings between these two. Expect a low scoring game here. Take the under.

*3 Star MAC Bookie SMASHER* The Northern Illinois Huskies have a way of forcing their opponent to play at their tempo, especially at home. Northern Illinois likes to run and gun, and Bowling Green has been speeding up quite a bit in the last couple weeks. Both teams are terrible defensively and both do a lot of fouling. The over is 8-3 in Bowling Green's last 11 games. The over is 11-4 in Northern Illinois' last 15 home games. Take the over!

*3 Star Atlantic 10 Total Smasher* The Duquesne Dukes are one of the best teams in all of college basketball at pushing the tempo. George Washington has had some high scoring games on the road this year, and I think this will be another. The over is 7-3 in George Washington's last 10 road games. The over is 5-0 in Duquesne's last 5 overall. Duquesne forces more turnovers than anyone in college basketball, and I think they'll make this a helter skelter type of game, which should push this one over the posted total. Take the over.

*3 Star College Hoops Total DOMINATION* The James Madison Dukes have a team that is capable of scoring in bunches. Last time they met up with William & Mary the final score was 84-79. Both teams shot well in that one, so it might not get that high this time around, but I think it should surpass the posted total. The over is 7-2 in James Madison's last 9 home games. Both teams hit the three ball pretty well, which should really help boost the points here. I like this one to top 140, so I really like the value on the over.

*3 Star NBA Bookie SMASHER* The Cavs and the Heat will meet up for the third time this year. Byron Scott is trying to implore his Cavs to play better defense, and they have been slightly better of late. I have no doubt that Miami could put up a lot of points here, but I really don't think Cleveland will score enough to get the over. Even Daniel Gibson, who has been their primary scorer is expected to miss the game tonight. Last time these two played in Miami it was 101-95. I expect Miami to get at least 101 today, but I don't think Cleveland will get above 90. The referee crew is a solid 'under' group as well. I look for this one to stay under the posted total.

*3 Star NBA Total DOMINATION* The Indiana Pacers fired Jim O'Brien on Sunday and they'll be led by Frank Vogel in this game. I've been watching this Indiana team steadily speed up their tempo over the last few weeks. At the beginning of the season they were winning with solid defense, but now they are back to running and gunning. In their last ten games, only once have they not put up at least 80 shots. The Raptors were embarrassed in Minnesota on Saturday and I would expect them to show some pride in this one. Earlier this year these two teams put up 224 total, and I think we are getting a nice value on the over here. Neither team will look to slow things down, and neither team plays much defense at this point. Take the over.

*3 Star Sunday Night ACC Totals Winner* The Maryland Terrapins and the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets have both been slowing the tempo down just a touch compared to what they were doing earlier this year. Georgia Tech allows only 59 points per game at home. Maryland is averaging just 66 and allowing only 56 per game on the road. The under is 5-0 in Maryland's last 5 road games. The under is 8-2 in Georgia Tech's last 10 home games. I think 140 is a very nice value on the under. Take the under in this ACC showdown.

*3 Star NCAA BB Totals Takedown* The under is 13-4 in Central Michigan's 17 games this year. This is a terrible team offensively and until they prove they can score, I'll keep taking the under in their games. I like the under here.

*3 Star Lakers/Celtics GUARANTEED Cash* The Celtics and Lakers will renew their rivalry in LA on Sunday afternoon. The Lakes are coming off a home loss to the Kings and the Celtics are coming off a beatdown at the hands of the Suns. If you look back at the last nine meetings between these two, only two of them have gone over this posted total. With Shaq in the lineup, the Celtics are a much slower paced team. This is also an early start on the West Coast, which tends to be helpful to the under. The under is 26-10 in the Lakers last 36 games overall. The under is 5-0 in the Celtics last 5 road games. I think this one stays below 180 because of a slow tempo and strong defense from both teams. Take the under.

*3 Star Hidden GEM Totals Winner* The Lipscomb Bison are a good team in the Atlantic Sun this year. Lipscomb likes to push the tempo of the game, and they average 83 points per game on their home floor. Florida Gulf Coast is one of the worst defensive team in the nation, and they allow 82 points per game on the road. I have this one projected in the low 150's, so I think we are getting a nice value on the over in this one.

*3 Star College Hoops Total DOMINATION* The Seton Hall Pirates have their star, Jeremy Hazell, back and healthy now. Seton Hall is a completely different team with him in the lineup. Hazell can score in bunches and he helps this team push the tempo on a consistent basis. Providence plays faster than anyone in the Big East, and they'll keep the pace moving in this one as well. These two met twice last year and the totals were 172 and 215! The number has been lowered because Seton Hall had lower games earlier this year, but now that they are back to full strength, I think this one sails over the total. Take the over!

*3 Star CUSA Totals Takedown* The UAB Blazers can slow the tempo down as well as anyone inside Conference USA. Central Florida started 14-0, but they've lost 5 straight games since. UCF only allows 55.8 points per game on their home floor, and UAB won't push the issue at all. The under is 10-4 in UAB's last 14 road games. The under is 10-2 in Central Florida's last 12 home games. I like the under in this one.

*3 Star Hidden GEM Totals Winner* Ronnie Moss was suspended from the TCU team earlier this week. Moss was arguably the Horned Frogs best player, but reports are that he wasn't playing team basketball. Moss was a one-man fastbreak on numerous occasions, which should mean this TCU team will slow down their tempo quite a bit without him in the lineup. Air Force will definitely try to slow the tempo down. I think this is the type of game that flies under the radar, but it is a hidden gem of a play because of Moss missing this game. The under is 8-2 in TCU's last 10, and this TCU team should play much slower. Take the under.

*3 Star Under the Radar Totals Winner* The Samford Bulldogs have always been a great 'under' play at home for the last few years. I think this is a great spot for the under. UNC Greensboro is coming off a double overtime loss on Thursday night and they likely will be a bit tired here. Samford will slow the game down and Greensboro probably won't try as hard to push the issue today. The trends look great in this one. The under is 8-3 in Greensboro's last 11 road games. The under is 17-5 in Samford's last 22 home games. I like this one to stay under 130, so I think this is a great value. Take the under.

*3 Star CUSA Cash Cow* Southern Miss has changed the way they play this year. They used to be a defensive slow it down type of team, but not anymore. They like to push the tempo and outscore their opponent. This is definitely true at home, where they average 84 points per game. The over is 4-0 in their 4 lined home games. The over is 9-4 in Tulane's last 13 road games. I like the over here.

*5 Star Top Play Totals TKO* The Wisconsin Badgers play at the slowest tempo of any team in all of college basketball. Penn State is ranked in the top 15 slowest teams in the nation as well. This has all the makings of a tough Big Ten battle that is as defensive as you'll see. How about some trends to back this one up? The 'under' is 16-6 in Wisconsin's last 22 road games. The under is 8-2 in Penn State's last 10 home games. The under is 4-1 in the last 5 meetings between these two. I think this one stays below 115 points, so I really like the value on the under. 5 Star top play on the under here.

*3 Star PAC 10 Totals BEATDOWN* There are several reasons to like this under. Neither of these teams play at a fast tempo at all, and both teams are strong defensively. The under is 19-7-2 in Arizona State's last 28 home games. Additionally, this game is an early 12:30 start time out West, which can help the under as well. I like this one to stay under the total.

*3 Star NCAA BB Totals Terrorizer* The Nebraska Cornhuskers have been a solid 'under' team for the last few years. This is a team with pretty good guard play and they like to control the ball and the tempo of the game. The difference this year is that Nebraska is extremely good on the defensive end of the floor. The Cornhuskers allow just 53 points per game on their home floor. Texas A&M is a solid team this year, and their strength is definitely their defense. The Aggies allow 59.5 points per game. Neither team will want to push the pace and both defend the three-ball well. The under is 25-8 in Nebraska's last 33 home games. The under is 7-2 in Texas A&M's last 9 road games. I like the under here.

*3 Star NCAA BB Early Bird Total* The College of Charleston is a team I follow very closely, and I really like playing the 'over' with them if the spot is right. This Davidson team isn't even close to what they used to be. Davidson is 8-12 this year, and their defense is not very good at all. Davidson is giving up 76 points per game in their last five games. Charleston is scoring 81 points per game in their last five. These two met earlier this year and the total finished at 155. I expect Davidson to be able to knock down some three's and stay in this game at home, which should help push this over the posted total.

*3 Star NBA Late Night BAILOUT* The Charlotte Bobcats are playing a little more uptempo now since Larry Brown left, and the Golden State Warriors can put points with the best of them on their home floor. Golden State averages 107 points per game and they give up 107 per game as well at home. The over is 10-1 in the Warriors last 11 games. The over is 23-9 in their last 32 home games. The over is 5-0 in the last 5 meetings between these two in Golden State. I like this one to sail past the posted total. Take the over.

*3 Star College Hoops Total Domination* The VCU Rams can score as well as anyone in the CAA. Hofstra is a great road team, so I expect a tight game here. The oddsmakers haven't caught up to the fact that Hofstra can score in bunches as well. The over is 23-9-1 in Hofstra's last 33 games. These two scored 149 in their earlier meeting this year despite not shooting that well from the floor. I projected this one at around 145 points, so I like the value on the over here.

*3 Star Total Bookie BASHER* The Akron Zips have picked up the pace in their last few games. The Northern Illinois Huskies are a team that love to run and gun at all times. I think the tempo of this game will really help it be high scoring. Last year when these teams met the final was 90-76, and I don't think it is far-fetched to think they could score something close to that again. Akron should get plenty of easy looks against this terrible NIU defense. Northern Illinois is pretty good from behind the arc and Akron struggles to guard their opponent from deep. The over is 10-4 in the Huskies last 14 road games. The over is 37-18-2 in Akron's last 57 road games. Take the over!

*3 Star NCAA BB Totals Terrorizer* The UAB Blazers have a very solid defense. Marshall is a team that pushes the pace, but they aren't nearly as efficient on offense away from home. Marshall averages just under 65 points per game on the road, and UAB is only giving up 60 points per game on their home court. Marshall will be without Johnny Thomas in this one, and he averages nine points per game. How about some long-term winning angles for this one? The under is 10-4 in UAB's last 14 home games. The under is 17-5 in Marshall's last 22 road games. The under is also 6-2-1 in the last 9 meetings. Take the under here.

*3 Star NBA Best Bet Bookie CRUSHER* The Orlando Magic are coming off an embarrassing home loss to the Detroit Pistons. Orlando is a much more offensive team since they have Turkoglu, Richardson, and Arenas. Indiana was a team that slowed the game down and played solid defense to start the year, but they are reverting to their previous style of running and gunning over the last couple weeks. The Pacers opponents have been able to put up 86.4 shots per game over the last five contests, which means Indiana is allowing the game to speed up quite a bit. Orlando is averaging 106 points per game in their last five games, and the over is 6-2 in their last 8 road games. I think Orlando will expose Indiana's weak defense here and the pace will be quick. I like the over.

*3 Star Big East Bookie BEATDOWN* The Villanova Wildcats and the Providence Friars are a nice pair of teams for an 'over' play. Villanova likes to push the tempo when they are able, and Providence runs all the time. Villanova has tremendous guard play, and they should be able to get quite a few open looks tonight. Both teams crash the offensive glass, which should be great for second chance opportunities. Last year these two teams met twice and the scores were 92-81 and 97-80. I think we are getting a really nice value on the over in this one. The over is 14-5 in Villanova's last 19 road games. The over is 6-2 in the last 8 meetings between these two. Take the over here.

*3 Star College Hoops Total DOMINATION* The Duquesne Dukes are just about the best 'over' team you will find. Duquesne pushes the tempo as well as anyone, and they force more turnovers than any other team in the nation. The Dukes should get a ton of easy layups by taking it from a Fordham team that is careless with the ball. Fordham is a very bad team, but they still try to push the tempo. These two teams met twice last year and the final scores were 89-68 and 111-100. Duquesne really should be able to put up at least 80 points in this one, and I think Fordham will put up more than enough for the rest. I like the over in a big way here.

*3 Star NBA Bookie SMASHER* The Clippers have been scoring a lot of points lately, but Eric Gordon is expected to miss this game, and that is very important. It might surprise most people to learn that it is Gordon and not Blake Griffin that leads the team in points per game. Gordon's 24.1 points per game will be missed bigtime tonight. Dallas has been struggling mightily on the offensive end, but their defense has been very good of late. Dallas is giving up just 92 points per game in the last five games. The Mavericks are also only scoring 86.4 points per game during that stretch. With the teams at full strength earlier this year the final score was 99-83. I really like the value on the under in this one. The under is 19-7 in the last 26 meetings.

*3 Star College Hoops Total DOMINATION* The Florida Gators have a very solid defense, and they definitely slow the tempo down. Florida is giving up just 59.7 points per game this year. Interestingly, they are allowing only 56 per game on the road, where they are even better defensively. Georgia allows just 64 points per game, and only 61 points per game on their home floor. The primary reason Georgia is a much improved team this year is the fact that they play solid defense. I suspect the reason we are getting such a high line here is both games between these two last year went well over the total, but these are two different teams this season. I don't think this one will get above 130 points. Take the under!

*3 Star NCAA BB Hidden GEM* The Buffalo Bulls are a team that the oddsmakers have had a tough time figuring out. The 'over' is 21-5 in their last 26 road games. It is very rare to see a trend continue for that long without the oddsmakers adjusting enough for it. Buffalo pushes the pace and Western Michigan is the type of team that plays to the style of their opponent, so this one should be an up and down affair. I like the value on the over in this one!

*3 Star NBA Play of the Day* The Cleveland Cavaliers are just a terrible team right now, and the Nets aren't much better. Both teams have horrible offenses. These two played twice in November and the final totals were 184 and 182 points. I think we are getting a nice value on the under here. Without Mo Williams the Cavaliers lose 14 points per game, and Ramon Sessions (the backup point guard) is questionable with an abdominal injury. The Nets average just 92 points per game, and they play much better defense on their home floor. All three of the referees assigned to this game are 'under' referees based on their past couple years worth of statistics. The under is 8-2 in the last 10 meetings between these two teams. Take the under here.

*3 Star Notre Dame/Pittsburgh Guaranteed Cash* The Notre Dame Fighting Irish changed the way they play during the middle of last season. Notre Dame used to run and shoot the three ball quickly in transition, but now they use up the clock and play solid defense. This season, Notre Dame has been pretty good offensively at home, but on the road they have been terrible. The Fighting Irish are averaging just 56 points per game on the road. Pitt has one of the best defensive teams in the nation, and I don't see the Panthers forcing the tempo in this one either. Both teams are great on the defensive glass and neither team commits that many fouls. The under is 17-5 in Notre Dame's last 22 road games. I like this one to stay under the posted total.

*3 Star NCAA BB Total Domination* Both the VCU Rams and the Towson Tigers have been playing some CAA opponents that like to slow the tempo down, which has lowered their totals in the last few games. In this game I don't think anyone will be slowing the pace down. VCU's offense is very efficient, and they shoot the three ball very well. Towson allows opponents to shoot 41% from beyond the arc, so I expect VCU to have lots of open looks. Both teams shoot it well from the free throw line. The over is 9-3 in Towson's last 12 home games. The over is 44-20-1 in VCU's last 65 road games. I like the over in this one.

*3 Star NFC Championship Total Knockout* The Green Bay Packers have put together a very impressive run in the playoffs thus far. Aaron Rodgers and the Packers have probably been the most impressive team in the playoffs so far. The Chicago Bears defense is determined to make life much tougher on him this weekend. Make no mistake about it, there is no love lost between these two teams. This is a huge rivalry, and now it is for a bid to the Super Bowl.

Both defenses are very good. The Packers have the fifth ranked defense when it comes to yards allowed, but they are second in the NFL in points allowed at just 15 per game. What about the Bears? Chicago is excellent against the run, and they have improved throughout the year against the pass. The Bears are fourth in the NFL in points allowed at just 17.9 per game. The Packers offense is impressive right now, but they don't have much of a running game to keep the Bears honest. Chicago's offense really hasn't been impressive all year, but they have done what they need to do to win.

In their two meetings earlier this year, the Bears won 20-17 at home, and the Packers won 10-3 on their home field. I was quite surprised to see the total at 44 in this one, since these teams have a nice history of low-scoring games. The under is 6-0 in the last 6 games between these two. Nine of their last ten meetings have finished under 44 points. I think the value here is on the under. Take the under in this NFC Championship Showdown!

*3 Star College Hoops Total Domination* Central Michigan will be without their second leading scorer in this contest. The Chippewas already play at a very slow pace, and without Jalin Thomas I expect them to slow it down even more. This is an intrastate rivalry game, and this usually brings out the best in the defenses. The under is 5-0 in Central Michigan's last five games. The under is 9-4 in Eastern Michigan's last 13 home games. I expect an ugly game that finishes very low scoring. Take the under here.

*3 Star Hidden GEM Totals Winner* The Fairfield Stags have the best defense in the MAAC conference, and right now they are probably the single best team overall in the conference. Niagara is probably the worst team, and they can't shoot well at all. Fairfield likes to slow the game down and I think they will do so successfully in this one. Niagara's top scorer is out for this game and their second leading scorer is questionable and will be dinged up if he does play. I think Fairfield controls the tempo here and this one stays under. The under is 12-4 in Fairfield's last 16. The under is 6-2 in Niagara's last 8. Take the under.

*3 Star NCAA BB Total DOMINATION* The Missouri Tigers know how to push the pace of the game better than just about anyone. Missouri's pressure defense forces the other team to either turn it over or push it up court for a quick basket. Iowa State has some solid guards, and I think they'll be able to score frequently against the press. At the same time, Missouri will definitely get some easy opportunities against Iowa State, who struggles on the road defensively. I look to see both teams put up a whole lot of shots in this one, and because of the quality of the shots they'll be taking, they should shoot a good percentage. This one should be a real track meet. Take the over!

*3 Star NCAA BB Totals Terrorizer* Jimmer Fredette and the BYU Cougars are an extremely potent team on offense. The interesting thing about them is that they are actually better on the road. BYU is averaging 87 points per game on the road this year. Colorado State averages 79 points per game on their home floor. Last year these teams combined for 162 points on Colorado State's home floor, and I feel like both teams play faster and have more scoring options this year. Colorado State is coming off a huge win at UNLV, and they'll be as confident as ever in this one. BYU knows they can score on anyone at anytime, so their offense should be ready. The over is 10-4 in BYU's last 14 Mountain West games. The over is 9-4 in Colorado State's last 13 games overall. Take the over!

*3 Star Hidden Gem Line Error* The Towson Tigers love to push the tempo. UNC Wilmington usually slows things down, but UNC Wilmington does shoot the three ball extremely well. Towson allows opponents to shoot 42% from beyond the arc, and UNC Wilmington should be able to take full advantage of that. Wilmington will have plenty of open looks here, and Towson will be pushing it back down the court and getting to the free throw line. I think this one gets up closer to 140 points. Take the over in this one.

*3 Star Sun Belt Total DOMINATION* The Troy Trojans are absolutely a team that runs and guns, and Western Kentucky is as well, especially at home. Both teams have had lots of issues with turnovers this year, and I think easy buckets off turnovers will come frequently in this game. The over is 6-1 in Western Kentucky's last 7 games overall. The over is 8-2 in Troy's last 10 games overall. The over is 5-1 in the last 6 meetings between these two. I like the over in a big way here.