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Two new members of the Big 12 will meet here on Friday as Cincinnati plays BYU in Provo. The Cincinnati Bearcats are 2-2 and 0-1 in the Big 12 after losing at home last week to Oklahoma, 6-20. The Cats had 376 yards of offense, but could manage just two field goals. What has hurt the team most thus far are turnovers, as they rank 84th in the nation in turnover differential. BYU is 3-1 after losing its first game of the season last week to Kansas, 27-38. The Cougars led at halftime, 17-14, but were outscored 21-3 starting the second half and never could come back. BYU is 41st in turnover differential. The offense has looked good, though the defense has had some issues thus far. BYU at home as a dog here on Friday is a bit more than I can pass on. The Cougars have the offensive weapons to stay in this game and I look for an outright win by BYU. Play BYU.

Game 3 of this WNBA best of five series plays in Uncasville, Connecticut with the teams tied at 1-1. Connecticut took game one, 78-63 at New York then lost game two 77-84. Connecticut has covered the first two games as 8.5 and 8.5 point dogs. The NY Liberty shot just 34% from the field in game one before a 45% night in their win in game two. The Sun have covered the first two of the series and while the line has dropped here in game three, I like the Sun to even win this game outright. The Sun are 16-5-1 ATS in their last 22 games with 2 days of rest. They have also covered five of their last seven at home vs the Liberty. I'll take another shot here with Connecticut.

The Bengals a far cry from the team that went to the Super Bowl. They are 0-2 and have scored 27 points in two games. Now QB Joe Burrows has been hurt and while it looks like he will play tonight, he can't be close to 100%. The Rams are 1-1 after their two games. The Rams opened with that come from behind week 1 win at Seattle, 30-13. Then last week came up a big short at home against the 49ers, 23-30, pushing the spread. QB Matthew Stafford has looked good for the most part, though he did have two picks last week by the 49ers and just one TD on the season. The Bengals Joe Burrow only had 82 yards in their season opening loss at Cleveland, 3-24. Then last week in the loss to Baltimore, 24-27, he had 222 yards with two TD's and one INT. Coaching edge goes to the Rams. The Rams have looked better overall and I can't be sure that Burrow can give 100% here. Take the Rams.

 Week three of the NFL concludes here tonight with the Buccaneers hosting the Eagles. With Dallas and Washington both losing on Sunday, a win by the Eagles will put them alone in first in the NFC East with a 3-0 record. Tampa Bay is also 2-0 and with Atlanta and New Orleans both losing Sunday the Bucs can be the only team in the NFC South with a 3-0 record. The Eagles have average 178 yards on the ground this year and 162.5 yards through the air. Their defense has allowed just 52 rushing and 326 passing. Tampa Bay's defense has also been very good, allowing 54 yards rushing and 248.5 yards passing. Philly QB Jalen Hurts has two TD's and one INT on the season. He passed for 170 yards in the opener at New England and 193 yards last week vs Minnesota. Baker Mayfield came over to the Bucs in the offseason. He has three TD's and no INT's. At Minnesota in week one he threw for two TD's and 173 yards. Last week vs the Bears he threw for 317 yards and one TD. Both teams have played well early in the season, but the difference for me here tonight is getting points at home with Tampa Bay. I'll take the points in this one. Play Tampa Bay.

 The Seattle Seahawks host the Carolina Panthers here on Sunday. The Panthers making the long trip from the East coast to the Pacific Northwest. Seattle is 1-1, scored 50 total points and allowed 61 points for a -11 point differential. They return home after their upset win at Detroit last week as a 4.5-point dog, 37-31. This coming after blowing a first half lead in week 1 at home to the Rams and losing 13-30. QB Geno Smith has played well, with three TD's and no INT's. He threw for 328 yards on the road last week. Carolina is 0-2 S/U and 0-1-1 ATS after a pair of games. They opened with a loss at Atlanta, 10-24 and then lost last week to New Orleans, 17-20. They failed to cover week one and pushed week two. The Panthers offense has just 281 yards in game one and 239 last week at home. Don't see the Panthers offense being able to stay with this Seahawks team that has lots of weapons on offense. I'll lay the points with Seattle.

Tennessee Titans are 1-1 to start the season as three teams are all tied for the AFC South with a 1-1 record. The Titans averaged just 21 ppg thus far while allowing 20 ppg. The Titans opened the season with a loss at New Orleans, 15-16 and then won last wee at home over the Chargers, 27-24. They covered both games. They have rushed for 245 total yards and passed for another 381 total yards. Ryan Tannehill tossed three INT's in the opener but rebounded with None in their win over the Chargers to go with one TD. Derrick Henry is one of the best backs in the league, but he's yet to hit 100 yards. He rushed for 63 in the opener and then 80 yards last week. The Cleveland Browns had high hopes this season with Watson finally getting a full season at QB and arguably the best running back in Nick Chubb. Well, Chubb went down last week and will miss the rest of the season with a knee injury. That will lead Jerome Ford to pickup the slack. Ford did rush for 106 yards after Chubb went down last week. Still, huge loss for this team. What made the injury even worse was losing the game to the Steelers, 22-26, even though they held Pittsburgh to just 255 yards of offense. I'm going to take Tennessee this week and see if Ford can really pick up the huge hole left by Chuff. Play Tennessee.

The Detroit Lions pulled the big upset in week one when they went into Kansas City and got the win, 21-20, as a 4-point dog. They fell off last week, losing at home as a 4.5-point favorite to the Seattle Seahawks, 31-37. They have outgained their opponents on the ground, 110-86. They also have more passing yards per game at 283-268.5. QB Jared Goff has four TD's and just one INT. Atlanta off to a 2-0 S/U and 1-1 ATS start. The Falcons play their first road game here today after winning at home over Carolina, 24-10 and then at home over Green Bay, 25-24. The Falcons have been great on the ground, with 170.5 yard average. They haven't had to put much pressure on rookie QB Desmond Ridder who has been effective. Ridder has 2 TD's and just 1 INT this season. The Detroit defense has only allowed an average of 86 yards on the ground so this should be an interesting matchup. I'll take the points with Atlanta.

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Big 12 action here today has Baylor hosting Texas. Texas comes into this game 3-0 S/U and 1-2 ATS. Baylor looking for its first win at 0-2 S/U and 0-1-1 ATS. Texas opened the season with a win over Rice, 37-10 as a 35.5-point favorite, then pulled the big shocker win with a 34-23 win at Alabama as a 7-point dog. They had a bit of a letdown last week in a much closer game then it should have been, win over Wyoming, 31-10. They failed to cover the 30.5-point spread vs the Cowboys. Texas is outscoring their opponents 34-14.7 this season. They are out gaining their opponents 409.3 to 276.3 ypg. The Longhorns defense is holding opponent rushing to just 2.9 ypa. Baylor opened the season with a loss to Texas State, 31-42 as a 26.5-point favorite. Then two weeks ago they lost to Utah, 13-20, as a 7-point dog, pushing the line. The Bears had last week off to prepare for today. The Bears are outgaining opponents 431.5 to 409 ypg but getting outscored 22 to 31 ppg. The Bears better hope they found a better offense and defense after with their week off. I really don't expect that but do expect the Longhorns to roll here on Saturday. Play Texas.

One of the marquee matchups on Saturday has Notre Dame hosting Ohio State. The Irish faithful will be in full force for this one. Both teams are undefeated as Ohio State is 3-0 S/U and 1-2 ATS while the Irish are 4-0 S/U and 3-1 ATS. Ohio State opened the season with a win over Indiana, 23-3, failing to cover the 30-point line. Then beat Youngstown State, 35-7, also failing to cover the 45.5-point line. And then last week beat Western Kentucky, 63-10, covering the 29-point line. This will be their toughest matchup of the season at Notre Dame. The Buckeyes have out gained their opponents 474.7 ypg to 223.7 ypg. They also have outscored opponents, 40.3 to 6.7 ppg. Notre Dame is coming off a win over Central Michigan last week, 41-17, failing to cover for the first time this year. The Irish biggest win was two weeks ago over NC State where they won 45-24 as a 7-point favorite. The Irish are out gaining opponents 508.8 to 234.8 ypg this year. They have outscored their opponents 46-11.7 ppg. This is a game that could really pad a resume for the playoffs at the end of the season. For me, I can't pass on the points at home with Notre Dame. Play the Irish plus the points.

A pair of undefeated PAC-12 teams meet here on Saturday as 3-0 Oregon State takes on 3-0 Washington State. The Oregon State Beavers are 2-1 vs the spread and 2-1 over/under this season. Oregon State opened with a winner over San Jose, 42-17, then beat Cal Davis, 55-7 and then last week got by San Diego State, 26-9, but failed to cover that 24.5-point spread. The Beavers are outgaining their opponents 466 yards to 257 yards. They also rush for 6.3 yards per carry while holding the opponents to just 2.0 ypg. They outscore their opponents 41-11 on the season. Meanwhile, Washington State opened the season with a win and cover vs Colorado State, 50-24 and then a upset win at Wisconsin, 31-22 and last week beat Northern Colorado, 64-21, but failed to cover the 47.5-point line. The Cougars outgain their opponents 535.7 to 363.7 yards per game. They have also outscored opponents 48.3 to 22.3 ppg. Both these teams have been great on offense and solid on defense. I'm taking the home dog here on Saturday. Play Washington State.

The Red Sox not officially eliminated from the playoffs but with 8.5 games back in the Wildcard race they are pretty much done. Chris Sale will try and build off an excellent start last time out. Sale went six innings and allowed just two hits and one run at Toronto. He's 6-4 on the season with a 4.66 ERA. Touki Toussaint will toe the rubber for the White Sox. He's 4-7 on the season with a 6.05 ERA. Those numbers are a bit worse of late at 7.12 over his last seven starts. I'll lay the Run Line here on Friday with the Red Sox.

The Tigers playing out the season while the Dodgers prepare for their first round of the playoffs. The Tigers are not officially eliminated from the playoffs but in reality it's over for them. The Tigers have lost two straight games including the last two night's in LA, 3-8 and last night 2-3. That snapped a four game win streak for Detroit. Reese Olson starts tonight for Detroit with a 4-7 record and 4.73 ERA. He has pitched well of late, allowing three runs over his last three starts. The Dodgers will start Bobby Miller tonight who is 10-3 in his 19 starts with a 4.02 ERA. He's been better of late with a 5-2 record and 3.68 ERA in his last seven starts. I'm going to lay the run line with the Dodgers here on Wednesday.

It's been a disappointing season for the San Diego Padres. They were expected to compete with the Dodgers for the NL West, but instead are 20-games back. They officially haven't been eliminated from the playoffs though because they are 5.5 games back in the Wildcard race. However, with six teams ahead of them that looks like a longshot too. Seth Lugo starts for the Padres today with a 7-7 record in his 24 starts and a 3.83 ERA. He's been even better of late with a 3-1 record and 2.97 ERA over his last seven starts. The Rockies will send Chase Anderson to the hill with a 0-5 record in his last 15 starts and a 6.43 ERA. He's been worse on the road with a 0-3 record and 8.78 ERA. I'll lay the run line today with the Padres.

Final days of the regular season and the Padres might be the biggest disappointment of the season. A huge payroll and super stars on the team and they are 20-Games back of the Dodgers. The one player who hasn't been a letdown is today's starter, Blake Snell. Snell is 14-9 on the season with a 2.43 ERA. He's been even better of late, going 6-1 in his last seven starts with a 1.88 ERA. He's also allowed two total runs over his last four starts (25 innings). The Rockies are in last in the NL West, 36.5-games back of the Dodgers. They will start Ryan Feltner today who is 2-3 in his eight starts with a 5.86 ERA. He's also allowed eight runs over his last five innings. I'll take the Padres today and lay the Run Line.

The LA Angels just waiting for the season to end. They made a lot of trade deadline pickups in order to try and make the playoffs. They all bombed as they floundered in the second half of the season. The Rays have clinched a playoff spot, but they still can take the division. They trail the Orioles by just 2.5 games and have won seven of their last 10 games. The Angels will start Patrick Sandoval on Tuesday with a 7-13 record and 4.86 ERA. That goes up in his last seven starts with a 1-5 record and 6.15 ERA. The Rays will start Taj Bradley today. Bradley is 5-7 in 19 starts with a 5.46 ERA. While Bradley isn't one of the better starters on this team. He has a very good bullpen behind him which has a 3.68 ERA. They have been better of late with a 1.11 ERA over their last seven games. I'll lay the Run Line here today with the Rays.

 Cleveland opened last week with a big AFC win over in-state rivals Cincinnati, 24-3. The Browns covered the pick'em line and went under the 46.5 point total. Cleveland had 206 yards on the ground and 144 passing yards for 350 total yards. Best news was they held the Bengals to just 142 total yards. Deshaun Watson was 16-of29 for 154 yards with one TD and one INT. Nick Chubb rushed for 106 yards and a 5.9 rypa average. Pittsburgh was manhandled last week at home by San Francisco, 7-30. They failed to cover the 1-point dog line and went under the 41.5-point total. They had just 239 total yards with 41 rushing yards. They allowed 391 yards to the 49ers. Kenny Pickett was 31-of46 for 232 yards with one TD and NO INT's. Since the Steelers played from behind they didn't get to establish much on the ground with Najee Harris having just 31 yards. The Steelers defense looked horrible last week and they are much better then showed. The Browns will be a daunting task on the ground, but I look for the Steelers to rebound here and win this second straight home game. Play Steelers.

Seattle comes into this road game after blowing a halftime lead last week at home against the Rams. Leading 13-7 at the break, the Seahawks were outscored 0-24 by the Rams in the second half to start their season with a loss. Seattle had just 180 yards in the game (85 rush/95 pass) while allowing the Rams 426 yards. The Detroit Lions pulled the big shocker in week 1 with a win on the road at defending champion Kansas City, 21-20. The Lions had 368 yards of offense and held the hi-flying Chiefs offense to just 316 yards. J. Goff led the passing with 22-of-35 for 253 yards and a TD while D.Swift led the rushing with 178 yards on the ground and a TD. The Lions return home this Sunday and while they are a decent favorite, which hasn't happened very often, I have to think they could be in for a letdown this week. I'm going to take the points with the visitors in this one. Play Seattle.

SEC Clash here on Saturday has Florida hosting Tennessee. First conference game for both teams here on Saturday has Tennessee coming in at 2-0 while Florida is 1-0. The Vols are coming off a win over Austin Peay, 30-13, coming way short of the 48.5-point line. Meanwhile Florida is coming off a blowout win over McNeese State, 49-7, but also failed to cover the 48-point line. Have to take these softball games with a grain of salt as both teams piled up the yards and points. Florida lost its opener to Utah before bouncing back against McNeese State. The Florida defense has been good, allowing just 15.5 ppg thus far. This will be the first test for Tennessee while Florida did face Utah in their opener. I'm just not ready to lay points on the road in the SEC. I'll take Florida here today.

SEC matchup here on Saturday has Mississippi State hosting LSU. Miss State Bulldogs are off to a 2-0 start under new HC Zach Arnett. They have wins over Southeastern Louisiana and Arizona thus far. This will be their biggest test of the young season. LSU comes in here winning four of the last five in this series. LSU lost its opener this season to Florida State, which makes this SEC contest even bigger for the Tigers. They are led by Jayden Daniels who has 708 of LSU's 1081 total yards this season. This is almost a must win spot for LSU and against 1st year coach Arnett I give a big edge to the Tigers here today. I look for LSU to win and cover this game against a Mississippi State still learning the ropes under a new head coach. Take LSU

 Buffalo looking for its first win of the season after starting 0-2. They face Liberty here on Saturday with the Flames coming in at 2-0. The Flames beat Bowling Green, 34-24, covering the 8-point line. They also beat New Mexico State last week, 33-17, also covering the 9-point line. The rolled up 526 total yards against New Mexico State last week. Liberty is in the Conference USA this year after being an independent. Buffalo lost its opener to Wisconsin 17-38, but covered the 29-point line. It was last week when they lost to FCS school Fordham, 37-40, that really hurts. They failed to cover the 22.5-point line despite leading 21-3 in the 2nd quarter. Liberty will be laying points at Buffalo here on Saturday. I look for Buffalo to put a lot of effort in this one after that loss to Fordham last week. I'll take the points at home with Buffalo.

Minnesota hits the road here to start week 2 as the Vikings play at Philadelphia. The Vikings and Eagles both coming off excellent seasons last year with Minnesota at 13-4 and the Eagles 14.3. The Eagles just coming up short in the Super Bowl, losing to the Chiefs. Last year the Vikings played at Philly in week two again, losing this matchup last year, 7-24. The Vikings coming off that week one loss to the Bucs, 17-20 at home. The Vikings used the pass extensively last week, rushing for just 41 total yards. QB Kirk Cousins was 33-of-44 for 344 yards and two TD's. The Vikings defense allowed just 242 total yards to the Bucs and held them to nine total first downs. The Eagles opened with a tough game at New England and were able to escape with the win, 25-20. The Eagles jumped out to a 16-0 lead over the Pats, but had to hold on for the win. The Eagles had just 251 totals yards as Jalen Hurts went 22-of-33 for 170 yards and a touchdown. The Eagles have had to adjust to both new offensive and defensive coordinators this year. This was an Eagles team that ranked first in the NFL in total defense last year. If the Vikings can establish a rushing game here on Sunday they should be able to compete and keep Hurts and the Eagles offense off the field. I'm still looking for the Eagle to adjust to new coordinators and early in the season is the time to take advantage. Play Minnesota plus the points.

 Already a key NFC East battle here on Sunday night has the NY Giants hosting the Dallas Cowboys. Both teams were 1-2 in the preseason. The Giants scored 61 points and allowed 72 while the Cowboys scored 68 and allowed 66. The Cowboys turn the backfield over to Tony Pollard with the departure of Ezekiel Elliot to the Patriots. Dak Prescot is back and healthy. The Cowboys are one of the favorites to get to the Super Bowl, despite a disappointing end to last season. Their defense will be great again this year, led by LB Micah Parsons. The Giants surprised everyone by making the playoffs last year and winning their first playoff game since Super Bowl 46. QB Daniel Jones is much improved and RB Saquon Barkely is back after a contract dispute. I know it's early, but I like the Giants here to win this game. But I'll gladly take the points too. Play NY Giants.

The season starts with a big rivalry already as the Cleveland Browns host the Cincinnati Bengals in this Battle for Ohio. Bot teams didn't do much in preseason as Cleveland finished 1-2-1 and scored 86 points in their four games. The Bengals were 0-2-1 and scored 51 points while allowing 71 points. Cincinnati won in double digits for the second consecutive season last year. The offense will be very good once again with Burrows at QB, Mixon in the back field and a core of excellent receivers. Burrows suffered a calf injury in preseason but is probable for this contest. The Bengals defense lost some key players in the secondary with Jessie Bates III and Vonn Bell both departing. The Browns look to get back to the postseason after missing the playoffs the last two years. DeShaun Watson will be the key cog for this team after starting just six games last year and looking very rusty. This offense has one of the best backs in the NFL in Nick Chubb so that should take some heat off Watson. With Burrow not playing in the preseason I'll look for him to take some time to get back on track. I like the home dog Browns in this opener.

The Pittsburgh Steelers and 49ers open the season here in Pittsburgh. The Steelers were a perfect 3-0 in the preseason and outscored their opponents by a 78-32 margin. Meanwhile, the 49ers were 1-2 in the preseason and scored just 40 points while allowing 77. This will be the sophomore season for Steelers QB Kenny Pickett. You can expect the reigns to be pulled off him this year. Last year he was held back but not this year. A lot is expected out of the 2nd season QB and I do look for him to have a breakout year. He can do it throwing and with his legs. It looks like Brock Purdy will start for the 49ers after the bad injury in the playoffs vs the Eagles. Should be interesting against a Steelers teams that was very good at intercepting the ball last year. I like home dogs, especially ones coming off impressive preseasons with the better QB playing. I'll take the Steelers on Sunday.

Arizona had a good preseason, going 2-1. However, they were outscored 46-72. Washington was a perfect 3-0 and scored 67 points while allowing 62. The Commanders came off a decent season last year. HC Ron Rivera had to shuffle some QB's, but the team performed well and finished 8-8-1, narrowly missing the playoffs. They start this season with a new offensive coordinator in Eric Bieniemy. The team was also sold as Daniel Snyder gave up ownership to Josh Harris. All these changes could be a new start for the Commanders. The defense has a lot of talent and stacked with draft picks. The D-Line is made up of all 1st round picks. The Defense finished 7th last year in scoring and should be even better this year. The Cardinals could and likely will be the worst team in the division this year. QB Kyler Murray will be out with an ACL tear and that leave David Blough and Jeff Driskell as the candidates. I see a huge difference in talent between these teams. I especially like the Commanders defense and they should shut down this anemic Cardinals attack. Take Washington here in week one.

The New Orleans Saints came off their preseason with a 2-1 record and outscored opponents by a 61-58 mark. As for the Titans, they also were 2-1 and outscored opponents 64-46. The Titans hope to rebound from a 7-10 season that saw them drop their last seven games. Mike Vrabel will be in his sixth season and the team under his control haven't missed the playoffs in two straight seasons. They come back with QB Ryan Tannehill and RB Derrick Henry. They added WR DeAndre Hopkins which should help the receiving corp. The New Orleans Saints have seen their win totals drop each of the last four seasons to just seven wins last year. In comes new QB Derek Carr. This might be the first time since Drew Brees that they will have a solid option at QB. Word is that WR Michael Thomas looks like his old self and could give a huge boost to both Carr and the receivers. Thomas has battled injuries over the last few seasons that has seen his playing time drop drastically. The Titans want to prove they aren't the team that finished last season. It will yet to be seen if Carr can keep the mistakes that plagued him in Vegas last year to a minimum. I have to take the points here with Henry carrying the load here on Sunday. Play Tennessee.

Conference USA Action here on Saturday has two teams expected to make some noise in the conference this year as Liberty hosts New Mexico State. New Mexico State Aggies finished last year 7-6 under HC Jerry Kill while Liberty was 8-5 under HC Jamey Chadwell. New Mexico State opened this season with a loss to U Mass before beating Western Illinois in their second game, 58-21. They had 438 yards of offense in the 2nd half alone last week. This Aggies team was 38th in defense last season. Liberty is 1-0 with a win in their opening week over Bowling Green, 34-24. Though leading 24-0 they had to hold off a furious rally by Bowling Green. They were led by sophomore QB Kaidon Salter who had 143 yards and two TD's. Liberty had five interceptions on defense, the most by a Liberty defense since 1995. New Mexico State won this matchup last year 49-14. Double digit favorite is Liberty this year and I think that's just too many points to give this New Mexico State squad. Play New Mexico State.

App State hits the road for the first time this season after beating Gardner-Webb last week at home, 45-24. North Carolina opened with a win over South Carolina last week, 31-17. App State struggled a bit last week, pulling away in the 2nd half and allowing 24 points on defense. The Tar Heels had 269 yards passing and 168 yards rushing last week. A lot of points to cover here this early in the season against what has been a good App State program in season's past. I'll take the points here with App State.

Ole Miss travels to Tulane here on Saturday to face the Green Wave from Yulman Stadium. These teams last met two years ago with Ole Miss taking that one, 61-21. The Rebels closed out last season by losing their last four games of the year and five of the last six. The Rebs did open with a win in their opener, scoring 70 points in the process, but that was against Mercer. Today will be a much tougher test for this team. They do have an explosive offense though with one of the best QB's in Jaxson Dart. Quinshon Judkins looks to carry the load running the ball. Tulane is coming off that bowl win vs USC last season. They dominated South Alabama at home last week with a 20-point win. Now comes an SEC team to town, which is going to be a early test for this Tulane squad. Michael Pratt will be at QB after a 14-of-15 performance last week for four TD's. The Rebels will be out to get that bad taste from the end of last year from their mouths. I don't see them overlooking this Tulane team. I'll lay the points with Ole Miss.

Big 10 action already on tap here on Sunday as Rutgers hosts Northwestern. The Northwestern Wildcats had one of their worst years in history, finishing 1-11 on the season. They return a couple of QB's who will battle for the starting job. Rutgers looks for a winning season after losing since 2014. They had a 4-8 campaign last season. The QB job is wide open this season with a trio of players competing for the job. The defense should be solid this year, led by the pass rush and a good secondary. Both teams looking to get off to that winning start. For me I'll take Rutgers here at home.

Reason: Virginia Tech looks to start its season on a positive note and that means avenging a loss to Old Dominion from last year. The Monarchs defeated Tech, 20-17 last year and sent Tech on a 3-8 season. Bhayshul Tuten transfers over from NC A&T to bolster the running game for the Hokies. Old Dominion finished last year 3-9 and had some major roster overhauls. So it's yet to be seen how those will effect this year's team. Still, the Hokies not a team to be laying this many points even in a revenge situation. I'll take the points with ODU here on Saturday.

Both teams open the season here on Saturday night. South Alabama Jaguars finished with a 10-3 record last season while the Tulane Green Wave were 12-2. The Jags won 10 games for the first time in school history which has them one of the top teams to win the Sun Belt this year. They averaged 29.8 ppg last year while have a very balanced offense rushing for 156 ypg and passing for 267 ypg. Carter Bradley is back at QB after hitting on 65% of his passes and having 28 TD's last year. South Alabama should be just as good as last year with most players returning. They had a very good defense that held opponents to 22.5 ppg. Tulane did lose their leading rusher from last as Shaadie-Clayton-Johnson is expected to fill the void. The Jags had an excellent offense and balance attack with a good defense. The Green Wave did struggle against the run last year and that could be exploited here today. The Jags had the 6th best run defense in the country last year and should disrupt the Tulane rushing attack today. This South Alabama team just too good on both sides of the ball to be getting this many points. Take South Alabama.

Opening game for both these teams as Northern Illinois Huskers look to improve on their 3-9 season last year. However, five of those losses came by one score. Rocky Lombardi is back at QB for NIU after 645 yards and five TD's last year. NIU suffered through a lot of injuries last year so they are looking for more consistent play this season. Boston College had its worst season since 2015 last year, finishing with a 3-9 record. They also return last year's QB as Emmett Moorhead is back behind center. NIU is 5-2 ATS in its last seven road games while BC is 4-10 ATS in its last 14 overall games. Getting more than a TD with a team that lost five games last year by one score is good for me. I'll take the points with Northern Illinois.

 Battle of Michigan teams here today has the Central Michigan Chippewas taking on Michigan State from Spartan Stadium. C.Michigan picked to finish fourth in the MAC has a somewhat difficult non-conference schedule with Michigan State and Notre Dame on tap. Michigan State takes on Richmond and Washington in their other non-conference games. C.Mich was 4-8 last year and turned the ball over a lot (-18 turnover ratio). Jim McElwain looks to improve the team as he did at Colorado State and Florida. They will start Sophomore QB Jase Bauer or reshirt freshman Bert Emanual Jr. The defense has talent at every level with a experience secondary. Michigan State has not announced a QB yet for week one as redshirt junior Noah Kin and redshirt freshman Katin Houser both compete for the spot. Michigan State will have to rely on a good defense until the offense finds its footing. Early on here I am like some nice dogs and today is one of them. I'll take the points with Central Michigan.

 Big 10 football on tap to start both Nebraska and Minnesota season. Nebraska parted ways with HC Scott Frost after losing four straight seasons. In comes Matt Rhule, former Carolina Panthers head coach. Rhule has shown he can help rebuild teams as he did at Temple and Baylor. The Huskers averaged 22.6 ppg last year. Jeff Sims, former Georgia Tech QB, will be the starter at Nebraska this year. Minnesota has won at least nine games in three of the last four years (Covid season the exception). They averaged 28.2 ppg last year. The bad news is they lost both QB's from last year and their leading rusher. Western Michigan transfer Sean Tyler is expected to replace their leading rusher, Mohamed Ibrahim. The defense lost some key members to a squad that was one of the best defensive teams in the country, allowing just 13.3 ppg last year. How the replacements will be is yet to be seen. The Minnesota team was a rushing team last year and didn't throw the ball much. How the loss of Ibrahim will effect them will be the big test. The defense also has lots of questions, losing their top three tacklers from last year. I'm looking for the Huskers to give them a good game here on Thursday under their new head coach. I'll take the points with Nebraska.

NC State travels to Hartford tonight to kickoff the season with U Conn for both teams. NC State finished last year 8-5 and lost in the Mayo Bowl to Maryland. U Conn finished 6-7 and lost in the Myrtle Beach Bowl to Marshall, 14-28. NC State will be rebuilding this season after losing a number of starters off of last year's team. That includes losing QB Devin Leary who transferred to Kentucky. They did get Virginia transfer Brennan Armstrong though. The defense returns six starters which finished 15th overall in scoring defense. As for U Conn, they look for another bowl bid this year and that would mark the first time for back-to-back bowl seasons since 2008-10. They will have Maine transfer Joseph Fagnano at QB. He had 15 TD's and 2231 yards last year at Maine. He will have an offensive line in front of him that returns four starters. Last time these teams met was 2022 with NC State winning at home, 41-10. Both teams have lots of new faces on both sides of the ball. I'm taking the points here today at home with the Huskies. Play U Conn.

The Cincinnati Reds look to snap a 3-game losing streak here tonight at San Francisco. The Reds have dropped to seven games back in the NL Central behind the Brewers. The Reds have a better shot at the NL Wildcard as they are just 2-games back in that race. The Giants are 1-game back in the Wildcard race and 13.5-games back of the Dodgers in the NL West. Hunter Greene starts for the Reds with a 2-6 record in his 16 starts and a 5.06 ERA. He's allowed 13 runs over his last two starts (6 2/3 innings). The Giants will start Logan Webb who is 9-10 in his 27 starts with a 3.67 ERA. He's been a bit better at home with a 5-5 record and 2.78 ERA. I'm taking the Giants here on Wednesday and laying the Run Line. Play Giants -1.5 Runs.

Reason: The AL West is a 3-team race as the Rangers, Mariners and Astros are all tied right now for the lead. That leaves the Angels the odd man out as they sit 12.5-games back of those three teams. They are also 12.5-games back in the AL Wildcard race. The Phillies are in 2nd place in the NL East but have no shot at first place Atlanta as they are 12.5 games back in the race. However, the NL Wildcard is a different story. The Phillies hold a 5-game advantage as they are the top NL Wildcard team right now. The Cubs are four games back and the Giants five games back. Reid Detmers starts today with a 3-10 record in his 23 starts and a 5.03 ERA. He's been worse of late, going 1-4 in his last seven starts with a 6.82 ERA. Cristopher Sanchez starts for the Phils with a 2-3 record in his 13 starts and a 3.33 ERA. He's allowed two runs in each of his last three starts, going six innings in each. I'm taking the Wildcard leading Phillies here today in this IL Game and laying the run Line. Play Philadelphia -1.5 Runs.

The San Diego Padres arguably the biggest disappointment of the 2023 season. After a bunch of high profile signings and moves the Padres were expected to contend with the Dodgers for the AL West title. However, here they sit, 19 games back in the West. The Wildcard even a longshot at this point, as they sit eight games back with six teams ahead of them. Blake Snell has been a bright spot though for this team, especially since the All Star break. Snell is 10-9 overall in 26 starts with a 2.73 ERA. However, he has allowed more than two runs in a start just one time dating back to May 25th. He has been very good and the teams best starter. The Cardinals also a disappointment this season as they are in last in the NL Central, 16.5-games back of the Brewers. The Cardinals have lost two straight games and eight of their last 10. Adam Wainwright has not been good either, going 3-9 in his 17 starts with a 8.61 ERA. That number is even worse lately with a 0-6 record in his last seven starts and a 10.55 ERA. Huge difference in starters here today. I'll take the Padres with Snell and lay the Run Line.

This is the first game of the college football season as Notre Dame hosts Navy. Notre Dame has high aspirations for this season and a CFB playoff in part to Wake Forest transfer Sam Hartman. The Irish were 9-4 last year in the debut of HC Marcus Freeman. Still, they need improvement after losses last year to Marshall and Stanford. Navy will have a new look at HC as DC Brian Newberry takes over after 15-year HC Ken Niumatalolo was fired. Notre Dame a huge favorite here on Saturday. Hartman was one of College football's top QB's and will be a big upgrade at the position for Notre Dame. One thing Navy has going for it is the option. Always hard to prepare for a good option team. And this year you can expect more passing from this Middie tea under new OC Grant Chestnut. This more passing attack could catch the Irish off guard today. The offensive line should be very good with three returning seniors. Navy needs to get the ground game going and keep the Irish offense off the field. Navy covered last year, losing by just three points to the Irish, 32-35. I'll take the big points here with Navy on Saturday. Play Navy.

 The defending Grey Cup Champion Toronto Argonauts return home to host the Calgary Stampeders. The Argos are 7-1 and have the CFL 2nd best point differential of +93. They are 4-0 at home this season and coming off a bye week. The Argos are 5-0 ATS in the week following a bye week. They are also 5-0 ATS in their last five home games and 18-6-2 ATS in their last 26 overall games. Calgary is 3-7 and have lost two straight games. They have a -38 point differential. Lots of points to lay here tonight, but Toronto should be able to pull it off. Play Toronto.

Tampa Bay has won two straight games and seven of their last 10 games to close back within two games of first place Baltimore Orioles. The Rockies are in last in the NL West and have the second worst run differential in baseball with a -177 mark. The Rockies have lost two straight games and seven of their last 10. Colorado will start Austin Gomber who is 9-9 in his 25 starts with a 5.52 ERA. The Rays will counter with Aaron Civale who is 6-3 in his 16 starts and a 2.44 ERA. He's been even better of late, going 3-1 in his last seven starts with a 2.27 ERA. I'll lay the Run line here today with the Rays.

CFL West action here on Sunday to close out the week has British Columbia taking on Saskatchewn. BC is in 2nd place in the West with a 7-2 record, one game back of Winnipeg. BC has a plus 80 point differential this season. Saskatchewan is 4-5 and sits in third place in the division. They have a -67 point differential. BC does well vs losing teams, covering their last five times. They are also 5-1-1 ATS their last seven vs the West. The Lions are 6-2-1 ATS in their last nine games overall. The Roughriders are 1-4-1 ATS in their last six games overall and 2-7-1 ATS in their last 10 games after a straight-up loss. BC in a fight for first so I don't see any letup here today. Take B.C. Lions.

The Minnesota twins opened their series with the Pittsburgh Pirates on Friday with a 5-1 win. The Twins now lead the AL Central by five games over the Cleveland Guardians. Minnesota also is the only team in the division with a positive differential of runs at +44. The Pirates have dropped two straight and seven of the last 10 games. They are 11 and 1/2 games back of the Milwaukee Brewers in the NL Central. They will start Mitch Keller here today who is 9-8 on the season in his 25 starts with a 4.27 ERA. Keller has been even worse of late going 0-4 in his last seven starts with a 6.35 ERA. Sonny Gray will take the hill for the twins with 6-5 record in 24 starts. Gray has an excellent 2.97 ERA. He's also coming off an excellent start at Philadelphia allowing just two hits and no runs over six innings for the win. I'm taking the twins today on the run line

CFL east division action here has the third place Hamilton Tiger-Cats taking on the second place Montreal Alouettes. Montreal is 5-3 on the season, they've won three straight games and have a plus 44 point differential. Hamilton is 3-6 on the season and has lost two straight games. Montreal has done well versus the number going 26-12 ATS their last 38 games. They are also 5-2-1 ATS in their last eight games versus the Eastern conference. Ottawa has not been so good going just 19-41 ATS in their last 60 home games they are also 3-7 ATS in their last 10 overall games. Moreover they are 0-5 ATS in their last five versus the east conference teams The Alouettes are 7-1 ATS their last eight meetings versus Ottawa. I'll be on Montreal on this one.

 CFL West action here today has the Winnipeg Blue Bombers taking on the Calgary Stampeders. Winnnipeg sits in 1st place in the West with a 7-1 record and has won three straight games. The Stampeders are in 4th place with a 3-6 record and is coming off a loss last week. The Bombers have been very good, going 26-11 ATS vs the West. However, they are just 2-5 ATS in their last seven road games and 1-6 ATS in their last seven week 11 games. Calgary has been great in week 11 games, going 15-0-1 ATS their last 16 times. They are also 13-3-1 ATS in their last 17 games following an ATS loss. No doubt Winnipeg is the better team, but I'm not discounting Calgary out here today. I'll take the points at home with Calgary.

The Minnesota Twins are benefiting by arguably the worst division in baseball as they lead the AL Central by 4.5-games over the Guardians despite a 63-59 record. The Twins will take on NL Pittsburgh Pirates. The Pirates are in 4th in the NL Central with a 54-67 record. They lost yesterday and have dropped six of their last 10 games. The Pirates will start Andre Jackson who makes just his second start. In his first he went 3 2/3 innings vs the Reds and gave up five hits and three runs. The Twins will start Pablo Lopez who is 8-6 in his 24 starts with a 3.66 ERA. He's been very good of late, going 4-1 in his last seven starts with a 2.36 ERA. I'm taking the Twins here today and laying the Run Line.

The Edmonton Elks are in last place in the West with a 0-9 record. They have the worst point differential in the CFL with a -116 mark. The Elks are also 3-7 ATS in their last 10 games and 6-20 ATS their last 26 after covering the previous week. Hamilton is coming off a bye week and that has been good for this club as they are 10-1 ATS their last 10 following a bye. They are also 4-1 ATS their last five vs a team with a losing record. The Tiger-Cats are third in the East with a 3-5 record. The Cats have also covered five of the last six meetings in this series. I'm taking Hamilton as they should be well rested vs this poor Elks club. Play Hamilton.

The Minnesota Twins took two of three games from the Phillies, outscoring them 11-1 in the last two games of that set after giving up 13 runs in game one. Today, they begin a series with the Detroit Tigers. The Twins have increased their lead to 4.5 games over the Cleveland Guardians in the AL Central. The Tigers are in third in the division, 8-games back. The Tigers have no shot for the AL Wildcard as they are 12-games back with eight teams above them. The Tigers start Alex Faedo who is 2-4 in his eight starts with a 5.80 ERA. The Twins start Bailey Ober who is 6-6 in his 19 starts and a 3.40 ERA. I'll go ahead and lay the Run line here today with the Twins.

The Defending Grey Cup Champion Toronto Argonauts six game win streak came to end last week at Calgary. Toronto returns home for the first time in over a month with their game against Ottawa this evening. Ottawa has played much better of late but are still 3-5 overall and 0-3 vs other East teams. Ottawa is 11-23 ATS in their last 23 games following an ATS loss. They are also 1-4 ATS in their last five vs a team with a winning record. Toronto is 4-0 ATS in their last four vs an East team and 4-0 ATS in their last four home games. They have also covered eight of the last nine games overall. Toronto is 6-2 ATS in the last eight in this series and 4-1 ATS in the last five at Toronto. With Toronto having a much need week off next week I expect a great effort here after that loss last week. Play Toronto.

Calgary's long streak of post season appearances is in jeopardy this year as they sit just 3-5 on the season both S/U and ATS. They will face a BC Lions team that is 2nd in the West with a 6-2 record, a half game back of Winnipeg who won last night. BC also has a positive point differential of +52 compared to Calgary's -9 mark. Calgary coming off a win and cover last week. Though that hasn't been good of late as they are just 2-10 ATS in their last 12 times coming off a cover. They are also 1-4 ATS in their last five games vs the West teams. BC coming off a loss and they usually bounce back, evidenced by their 5-0 ATS mark the last times in that spot. They are also 4-0 ATS the last four vs a losing team and 5-0-1 ATS in their last six games at home. The Lions are 4-1 ATS in their last five meetings with Calgary. They are also 16-6-1 ATS in their last 23 vs Calgary at British Columbia. I'm taking BC here tonight.

Washington plays its first preseason game here tonight at Cleveland. The Browns played in the Hall of Fame game and used a very good defense to hold the Jets to under 200 total yards of offense. They also defended well against the run, allowing just 2.3 ypc. That isn't good for Washington here tonight which relies a lot on their ground game. The Browns also moved the ball well on offense. Also, expect Deshaun Watson to see playing time tonight. I also expect the Browns to play more starters here tonight. I liked the way this Cleveland team looked in their win over the Jets and expect that momentum to spill into tonight's contest. Take Cleveland.

Reason: It's the East vs the West here tonight as the Montreal Alouettes host Saskatchewan. Montreal is 2nd in the East with a 4-3 record and have won their last two games. Saskatchewan sits third in the West with a 4-4 record. They have also allowed more point then they have scored for a negative 38 point differential. Sas Roughriders are just 3-10-1 ATS in their last 14 games and 2-5-1 ATS in their last eight road games. They also have trouble against winning teams with a 0-6-1 ATS mark their last seven. The Roughriders have lost three of their last four games while Montreal has covered back-to-back games. In addition the Alouettes margin of victory in those games has been 10-points. Take Montreal today.

One of the best CFL teams plays one of the worst here today. Or, as I like to phrase it, the Penthouse vs the Outhouse. You have Winnipeg Blue Bombers who are 6-2 and atop the CFL West standings. They have scored 240 points (tops in the West). They face the Edmonton Elks here today who are looking for their first win of the season after losing all eight games. They have a CFL low 105 total points and have allowed a high of 212 points. Winnipeg is 4-0 ATS in their last four games following a bye week. They are also 44-21 ATS in their last 65 vs the West. Edmonton is 2-7 ATS in their last nine games and 5-13 ATS their last 18 vs the West. Winnipeg is also 6-2 ATS in the alst eight meetings with Edmonton. It's a lot of points to lay on the road, but I don't see Edmonton getting much if any here tonight. Play Winnipeg.

Reason: After suffering through a 3-game losing streak, the Atlanta Braves have won two of three vs the Pirates as they play this final game of the set early here on Thursday. The Braves took Wednesday's game, 6-5 and have scored 20 runs in the three games. However, they have also allowed the Bucs to score 18 runs. Bryce Elder starts for the Braves with a 8-3 record in his 22 starts and a 3.43 ERA. The Pirates will start Bailey Falter who is still looking for his first win of the season against six losses. Falter has a 5.40 ERA on the season. I'm taking the Braves and laying the run line here today.

 Two CFL teams both in need of a win meet here today as the Saskatchewan Roughriders host the Ottawa Redblacks. Ottawa is 3-4 on the season while Saskatchewan is also 3-4. Ottawa is also 3-4 ATS this season and their last four games have been decided by just one possession. The Roughriders offense is not good and has been even worse the last two weeks as they have combined for just 22 points vs Toronto and BC. They are also 2-4-1 ATS this season. The Redblacks have been competitive while Saskatchewan has not been. I look for a Ottawa road win here today. Play Ottawa.

 In what might be their biggest test thus far, the USA Women's team looks to continue defending of their World Cup Championship here early on Sunday against Sweden. The USA really limped through the group section. First they beat Vietnam 3-0 as a 6 1/2 goal favorite. Then they had to come from behind to gain a draw with the Netherlands, 1-1. And in their final group game, they needed a draw or win to advance vs Portugal. A loss and they were eliminated. They did draw, 0-0. But three games they were big favorites in and they just did get by. As for Sweden, they are the World's 2nd ranked team. They opened World Cup with a win over South Africa, 2-1, then easily beat Italy, 5-0 and finally a 2-0 win over Argentina. They have a 9-1 goal advantage this World Cup. I have not been impressed with the way the USA has played thus far. And, to make matters worse they will be without a key player for this game. Rose Lavelle picked up her second yellow card in the game vs Portugal and will be suspended for this round of 16 game. Lavelle is considered one of the team's top players. I will take Sweden here on Sunday on the goal line +1/2 goal.  

The Milwaukee Brewers lost to the Pirates in game one of this 3-game series, 4-8. Despite the loss, the Brewers hold onto a slim 1/2-game lead in the NL Central. The Reds are right behind them and the CUbs have moved to within 2.5-games. The Cubs are the only team in the division with a positive run differential (+71). The Pirates are in 4th in the division, 9-games back of the Brewers. The Bucs will start Bailey Falter today who is 0-6 in his seven starts with a 5.75 ERA. Falter has allowed nine runs over his last eight innings of work. The Brewers will start Corbin Burnes who is 9-6 in his 22 starts with a 3.44 ERA. He's been better of late, going 4-1 in his last seven starts with a 2.42 ERA. Burnes has not allowed more than two runs in any of his last six starts. I'm taking the Brewers here on Saturday and laying the Run Line.

 Montreal is in 2nd place in the CFL East with a 3-3 record, but that's six points back of the 1st place Toronto Argonauts who lost their first game of the season on Friday and fell to 6-1. They will take on third place Hamilton who is 3-4 on the season, also with six points. Both these teams are coming off wins. This will also be the second time these teams have met this season with Montreal taking game one, 38-12 at Hamilton in week three. Six of the last eight meetings between these teams have gone UNDER. Montreal is 25-12 ATS in their lats 37 road games and 5-2 ATS in their last seven vs a losing team. Hamilton is 3-9 ATS in their last 12 vs the East and 2-6 ATS in their last eight following an ATS WIN. I like Montreal here on the road to take their second straight game vs Hamilton. Play Montreal.

The Toronto Argonauts are the best team in the CFL this year with a 6-0 record and a league leading 217 points. Their defense is very good too as the team has a +93 point differential. Meanwhile, Calgary is 2-5 on the season and allowing 192 points with a -22 point differential. The Argos are 6-0 ATS following a S/U win and 4-0-1 ATS in their last five road games. They are also 17-5-2 ATS in their last 24 overall games. Calgary is just 7-22 ATS in their last 29 homes games and 1-4 ATS in their last five overall games. Toronto should pull away in this contest for an easy win. Play Toronto.

 The two top teams in the CFL West conference meet here today as the 6-1 BC Lions take on the 5-2 Winnipeg Jets. BC is known for their defense as they have allowed just 94 points this season. They will have their work cut out for them tonight as the Blue Bombers are 2nd in the CFL in points scored. Winnipeg is 7-3 ATS in their last 10 home games and 40-19 ATS in their last 59 vs a team with a winning record. The Blue Bombers have also done well in this matchup, going 5-1 ATS the last six vs B.C and 22-8-1 ATS the last 31 meetings. I'm going to take Winnipeg as I see them being able to score a lot of points tonight. Play Winnipeg.

Women's World Cup continues on the other side of the world in Australia as the USA faces Portugal in this 3AM Eastern clash. This is the final group game. If Portugal wins they advance to the next stage. If they draw then they need the Netherlands to lose to Vietnam to advance. The USA will advance with a win or a draw. They just not need to lose to advance. The USA had a draw with the Netherlands in their last game. Portugal beat Vietnam, 2-0. The USA is a big favorite here today so a loss would be a shock. They only need to NOT lose to advance. The USA haven't lost in 19 straight Women's World Cup games with 15 wins and four draws. I expect a win here early in the morning by the USA. I'm going to lay 1.5 goals.

The Atlanta Braves have cruise control set as they are 11.5 games ahead of 2nd place Miami in the NL East race. The Braves have won three straight games and six of their last 10 games. They also have a run differential of +151, which is best in baseball. The Angels have been a major player in the trade deadline as many thought they would unload, instead they have been buyers. The Angels are just five games back of the Rangers in the AL West. They are also four games back in the AL Wildcard race. So thoughts in LA are that they will make a push to get one of those playoff spots. The Angels start Griffin Canning today who is 6-4 in his 16 starts with a 4.46 ERA. The Braves counter with Charlie Morton who is 10-8 in his 20 starts and a 3.57 ERA. I like the Braves in this one and by a decent margin. I'll lay the Run Line today with Atlanta.

The Milwaukee Brewers three game skid has dropped them into 2nd place in the NL Central, a half game back of the Reds. The Brewers are 57-49 and are tied for the 2nd Wild Card spot with the Marlins. It's a very crowded NL Wild Card race so the Brewers might be better just trying to win their division as this point. The Nationals are in last place in the NL East, 24.5-games back of the Braves. They lost on Sunday and have a -94 run differential. The Brewers start Corbin Burnes today who is 9-6 in his 21 starts with a 3.46 ERA. Burnes has been very good on the road, posting a 5-3 record in his 11 away starts with a 3.00 ERA. In addition, Burnes has allowed just two runs over his last three starts and no more than two runs in any of his last five starts. Jake Irvin will start for the Nats with a 3-5 record in 15 starts and a 5.08 ERA. He's allowed 11 runs over his last three starts (14 2/3 innings). I like the Brewers with Burnes here today. I'll lay the Run Line with Milwaukee.

The Minnesota Twins look to snap a 3-game losing streak here today at Kansas City. The Twins lost the opening game of this set with the Royals on Friday, 5-8. That has them in 1st place in the AL Central, still one game ahead of 2nd place Cleveland. The Guardians also lost on Friday. The Royals are in last in the Central with a 30-75 record and have lost seven of their last 10 games. The Twins will start Bailey Ober today who is 6-4 in his 16 starts with a 2.76 ERA. He's been very good on the road with a 4-1 record in six starts and a 2.41 ERA. Jordan Lyles will start for the Royals with his 1-12 record in 19 starts and 6.02 ERA. Lyles had a couple of very good starts before getting hit up for nine hits and five runs in his five innings at the Yankees in his last start. I'll take the Twins today and lay the Run Line.

The Pittsburgh Pirates not all that long ago where in 1st place in the NL Central. Now, they sit in last place, 11.5-games back of the 1st place Brewers. They have also lost seven of their last 10 games. They did open this three game series with a win vs the Padres on Monday, 8-4. The Padres have been a big disappointment this year and now sit in 4th in the NL West, 10-games back of the Dodgers. Today's starter, Blake Snell, is in the mix for a player that could be traded before the looming MLB trade deadline. While Snell's season has been underwhelming, like the Padres, he's been very good of late. Snell is just 6-8 on the season with a 2.67 ERA. However, he's 4-2 in his last seven starts with a 0.69 ERA. Rich Hill will start for the Pirates with a 7-9 record in his 20 starts and a 4.92 ERA. He's been worse of late, going 1-4 in his last seven starts with a 6.03 ERA. I'll take San Diego here today and I'll lay the Run Line.

The Kansas City Royals don't have the worst record in baseball, but that's only because the Oakland A's are in the league. The Royals are 29-73 and 25-games back of the Twins in the AL Central. They also have a -167 run differential. The Guardians are 2nd in the AL Central, four games back of the Twins. The Guardians look to snap a two game losing streak here tonight. Zack Greinke will start today for the Royals with a 1-10 record in his 19 starts and a 5.40 ERA. That number is worse on the road where he is 0-6 in nine starts and a 7.42 ERA. Aaron Civale will toe the rubber for the Guardians with a 3-2 record in 11 starts and a 2.71 ERA. Civale has not allowed more than two runs in any of his last four starts. Big edge here today in pitching and the team to the Guardians. I'll take Cleveland and lay the Run Line.

CFL Action here on Sunday has the East division Ottawa Redblacks vs the West division Calgary Stampeeders. Ottawa is 2-3 overall and tied for 2nd in the division, but well behind undefeated Toronto which is 5-0. Calgary is also 2-3 and in fourth place in the West. Ottawa is a rushing team led by their QB Dustin Crum who leads with 201 yards and three touchdowns. Calgary also a rushing team as they average 96.2 yards per game. Both teams pretty even with an edge to the home club. This game comes down to the rushing of both teams. Otttawa gets the edge here plus they also have the better rush defense. I'll take the points with Ottawa and their better ground game and ground defense.

The Orioles and Rays are tied for 1st place in the AL East as they play this weekend set. The Rays won on Friday 3-0 to pull back into a tie in the division. Grayson Rodriguez will start for the Orioles with a 2-2 record in his 11 starts and a 7.33 ERA. He's allowed 22 runs over his last four starts (16 2/3 innings). The Rays will counter with their best here on Sunday in Shane McClanahan who is 11-1 in his 18 starts with a 2.56 ERA. He's been very good at home with a 5-0 record and 1.89 ERA. I'm taking the Rays here on Sunday and laying the Run Line.

The Miami Marlins look to be a longshot to catch the Braves in the AL East as they are now 9.5-games back. However, the Marlins do have the top spot in the NL Wild Card race by 1-game. The Orioles have closed the gap with 1st place Tampa Bay to just 2-games thanks in big part to a 7-game winning streak. The Marlins will start Steven Okert here today. Okert will make his first start of the season. Okert moves from the pen after a 2.43 ERA and 46 K's this season. Wheather or not his role is that of an opener today remains to be seen, but is likely. The Orioles will start Kyle Bradish who is 5-4 in his 16 starts with a 3.32 ERA. He's been a bit better at home in his seven starts with a 2.81 ERA. Bradish has also not allowed more than two runs in any of his last five starts. I'll lay the Run line here today with the hot Orioles.

A couple of West CFL teams meet here on Saturday as Saskatchewan hosts the Calgary Stampeders. Saskatchewan is 3-1 and in 3rd place in the division. They have allowed more points (95) then they have scored (85), despite their winning record. As for Calgary, they are 1-3 and in 4th place. Both teams failed to cover last time out with Calgary getting eight points in a loss to Winnipeg and Saskatchewan just beating Edmonton 12-11 as a 7-point favorite. The Roughriders were very lucky to even pull out that win against a winless Edmonton team. Calgary is 11-2-1 ATS in their last 14 times after failing to cover the previous game. I think we have to throw out the records here today as these teams are pretty even. That being said, the way Saskatchewan played vs Edmonton left a lot to be desired. I'll take Calgary here on Saturday.

Reason: St Louis still floundering in last place in the NL Central division with a 35-48 record and 10.5-games back of the Milwaukee Brewers after losing to the Marlins on Monday, 4-5. Miami having a very nice season as they are 49-37. However, that's only good for second in the NL East and 9-games back of the Braves. However, the silver lining is that the Marlins are the top Wild Card team at the moment with a 1.5-game cushion. The Cardinals will start Adam Wainwright here today with his 3-3 record and 7.45 ERA. Things haven't been good for Wainwright of late either, allowing 13 runs over his last two starts (4 2/3 innings). The Marlins will start Jesus Luzardo today who is 6-5 in his 17 starts and a 3.53 ERA. That ERA improves at home to 2.65 in his nine starts. I like the Marlins again here on Tuesday, but today I'll lay the Run Line with them.

 Week 4 of the CFL season begins tonight with the 3-0 BC Lions taking on the 2-0 Toronto Argonauts. The Lions looking for their best start since 2007 with a win tonight. Toronto hasn't started a season 3-0 since 1991. BC has a great defense, allowing just 7 ppg this year. They will face a Toronto offense that averages 37.5 ppg and 399 of offense. BC also leads the league in QB sacks with 11 while Toronto allows the fewest sacks (1). Toronto has really upped their own pass attack as they are blitzing on almost every down. That resulted in six sacks vs Edomonton. This will be a choir here today against one of the best offensive lines in the CFL. BC also has one of the best receiving cores in the CFL and that will bring problems to the Argos. Yes, Toronto is the reigning CFL Champion, but I see them tested big time here tonight by what might be the best team in the CFL. I'll take the BC Lions here tonight.

 Winnipeg is arguably the best team in the CFL, at least before the season started. Thus far they are proving prognosticators correct with their 2-1 start. Winnipeg has averaged 31 ppg thus far. Montreal is off to a fast start at 2-0 and tied for the East division lead with Toronto. The difference between the two records has been the level of competition. Montreal coming off a easy win over Hamilton, 38-12. Their 309 yards of offense is only good for 7th in the CFL thus far. Winnipeg looks to rebound after suffering its first loss last week to the Lions, 6-30. Winnipeg still averages 31 ppg this year, ranking 4th. While the line looks tough, I still am not convinced that Montreal is the real deal after who they played. I'll take the preseason best team in Winnipeg Blue Bombers today.

CFL action today has the Saskatchewan Roughriders taking on the Calgary Stampeders. Calgary is 7-20 ATS in their last 27 home games and they are a slight home favorite here today. Calgary bounced back last week with a win over the Redblacks, 26-15. Saskatchewan has an impressive offense, gaining 755 total yards in their two games this season. They are 1-1 on the season, losing their home game and winning their away game. Calgary is also 1-1, losing their home game and winning their away game last week. It's early in the season so we are still looking for some form on these teams. However, I see today's matchup as very even and with that I usually like the dog. I'll take the small points here with Saskatchwan.

The Montreal Alouettes come into this week 3 clash with a 1-0 record while Hamilton looks for its first win at 0-2. The Alouettes won and covered their first game vs Ottawa on June 10, 19-12. Hamilton got blown away by Toronto, 32-14, despite being a small favorite. Hamilton has a lot of injuries coming into this game, especially on the OL as four players hit the report. QB Bo Levi Mitchell is also doubtful with an adductor injury. I have to take the visitor here today until I see more out of this Hamilton squad. Play Montreal.

It's the Penthouse vs the Outhouse today as the AL East Division leading Tampa Bay Rays vs the AL Central last place Kansas City Royals. The Royals will send veteran righthander Zach Greinke to the hill today. Greinke is 1-7 overall with a 4.81 ERA. Those numbers are worse on the road with a 0-4 record in seven starts and a 6. 15. The Royals start Zach Eflin today, who is one of their best. Eflin is 8-3 in his 13 starts with a 3.26 ERA. He's been almost perfect at home, 7-0 in seven starts with a 1.85. I don't see much chance for the Royals here today. I'll lay the Run Line with Tampa Bay.

 Arizona has won four straight games while the Detroit Tigers have lost eight straight. Diamondbacks surprising everyone as they sit in first place in the NL West with a 39-25 record. Zac Gallen will start today with a 7-2 record and 2.75 ERA. Gallen ha allowed more than two runs just two times in his last 11 games. Joey Wentz starts for the Tigers with his 1-6 record in 12 starts. He has a 7.49 ERA on the season. No doubt the D'backs are the hot team in baseball and today they have their best on the hill. For me, I'll lay the Run Line and expect a blowout win from Arizona.

Game four of the NBA Finals has the Denver Nuggets with a two games to one lead. The teams split the first two games in Denver and in their first game in Miami, the Nuggets dominated from start to finish winning, 109-94, covering the spread and the game going under. The Nuggets have now shot above 50% from the field in all three games while game three was their worst 3-point shooting at just 27.8%. Miami had their worst shooting performance in game three, hitting just 37% overall and 31.4% from the 3-point arc. This series has thus far been a classic rebound type series. The Nuggets take game one, Miami game two and then Denver game three. I look for the Heat to rebound again here in game four. They had a pretty dismal performance in game three and will look to make amends for that showing. Take the points here in game four with the Miami Heat.

 No big surprise in game one of the NBA Finals. I was loaded on the Nuggets with them in the game, first quarter and first half - sweeping the board. I expected that Boston series to take a toll on the Heat and for them to come out flat in game one. Plus it takes time to get used to the altitude in Denver. Miami also shot just 40.6% from the field compare do Denver's 50.6% and they had almost no free throws. I expect to see much better from the Heat tonight. They should be better acclimated to the thin air and that Boston series out of their system. Denver still looks to be the best team and I expect them to win this series, but this is a lot of points again tonight. In game one, the Heat rallied late and almost back ended the number. I expect them to be much more competitive tonight. I'll take the points. Play Miami.

Miami coming off that hard fought series vs the Celtics. Miami winning game seven on the road in a blowout after blowing a three-zero lead in the series. I think many people wrote them off in game seven. I took the points with the Heat but am surprised at how Boston didn't show up at all in that game. Now it's game one of the NBA Championship. Denver has been waiting for a while and see some rust, but I don't see that. What I do see is major letdown in game one by the the Heat. They have to travel, they have hardly any time off and they have to play in the nearly 6,000 foot elevation of Denver. Perfect spot for Denver here in game one for a blowout.  

The Boston Celtics look to make history here today as the only team ever to come back from an 0-3 deficit to win a series. Game 6 was a great game and we can only hope game 7 here on Monday is as good. For me, I'm taking the points here today. I don't feel Miami will just roll over and give in. This is still a lot of points to lay in a NBA conference finals. Take Miami plus the points.

Game 6 of the NBA East Finals as the Heat now lead 3-2 over the Celtics. Don't tell the Celtics that no team has every come from an 0-3 deficit to win. After losing the first three games, Boston has won the last two, in easy fashion. They won game four, 116-99 and then game 5 110-97. A win here in game 6 by the Celtics and they likely will break that NBA curse of being down 0-3 in a series. If I'm the Miami Heat coaches, I will be drilling into my players that this is the game to win. They can't afford to lose and expect to go back to Boston and take game seven. That all being said, I'll take Miami here plus the points at home to finish this series. I'll also take the UNDER as I don't see the Heat winning a shootout. I look for the two to go hand in hand tonight. Take Heat and UNDER. 

 The Celtics could have easily rolled over and went quietly after being down 0-3 in this series with the Heat. But, they didn't and won easily on game four, 116-99. The Celtics shot 51.2% from the field and a series best 40% from the 3-point arc. The only negative is that they were out-rebounded for the third time in the series. So here we are in game five and the Celtics face the arduous task of trying to become the ONLY team in NBA history to come from a 0-3 deficit to win a series. The oddsmaker thinks they have a good shot tonight, making them an eight-point favorite. For me, that's too many points to give this Heat team that has already beaten the Celtics at Boston twice in this series. I'll take the points here tonight with Miami.

The Miami Heat can wrap up the NBA Eastern Conference Finals here tonight in their own home building. The Heat have dominated the Celtics, winning by seven and six at Boston and then by 18 in game three at home. They have already beaten the Bucks in this postseason and now look to beat the two best teams in the East during the regular season. The Celtics have been the worst underperforming team in the NBA postseason as many expected them to win it all. Will they bounce back here tonight? Consider no team has ever come back from a 0-3 deficit in the playoffs and one has wonder if they even care at this point. I don't expect the Heat to take their foot off the pedal here tonight. Miami's offense was something to be desired as the playoffs started. However, Jimmy Butler has looked very dominant averaging 29.9 ppg. I don't look for Boston to roll over here tonight. However, do they have an answer for Butler? They haven't so far. I'm taking Miami to close this one out tonight.

I had the Lakers in game two because I liked the momentum that had in the fourth quarter of game one. They made that huge comeback and gave Denver a big scare. Game two they had that same energy for the first three quarters and led by as much as 10-points. But Jamal Murray went wild in the 4th with 20 points and the Lakers lost, but did get the cover - just barely. So, how will game three play out? First, the Lakers transition game has to get better than it did in games one and two. Second, while the Lakers have a very deep team, Lebron and Anthony Davis need to step up their scoring. If Davis and James get their rear ends in gear here in game three, they will win. Plus, both teams have been much better on their home courts. Must win spot here today for the Lakers. I'm taking them minus the points. Play LA Lakers.

The Lakers may have lost game one of the NBA West finals but in reality they have a moral victory. They trailed through three quarters by as much as 21 points. They gave up 74 half time points. They gave Jokic a new record, the only player to have more than 10 rebounds and 5 assists in one playoff quarter. Their transition game looked bad, they were getting killed on the offensive and defensive boards. Bad, huh. But somehow they rallied in the four quarter and trailed by three points with just over one minute to play. The final score was Denver by six, which just happened to be the line on the game. So Laker players really had found money as they got a push. The Lakers showed up in Denver 48 hours early to get acclimated to the high altitude and that may have played a part in their rally. No matter what, the Lakers have something to build on as we get ready for game two. They can use the momentum from that game one fourth quarter and the fact that they took the best Denver had to give them, but still came close at the end. The Lakers also took Anthony Davis off Jokic and that helped the Lakers and Davis. Plus, you can't overlook the pedigree the Lakers have with Lebron and having won the Championship just a few years ago in the "bubble" season. For these matters, I'm taking the points with the Lakers here in game two. Play LA Lakers.

 The Boston Celtics had to survive a seven game grueling series with the Philadelphia 76ers to advance to the Eastern Conference Finals. This marks the third time in the last four years that these teams will face off in the Finals of the East. The Miami Heat disposed of the NY Knicks in six games so they got a bit of extra rest. The Heat had to win that series without two key players in Victor Oladipo and Tyler Herro. Both players will be out tonight. The Celtics should be fortunate to be here after trailing Philly 2-3 in that series and getting blown out in game five. It took the heroics of Jayson Tatum in both game six and seven to pull the Celtics butts from the fire. Miami is the more rested team here tonight and the Celtics might be set for a letdown after that comeback vs the Sixers. This line is too big for me and I'll gladly take the points in game one. Play Miami.

The Lakers and Nuggets begin their seven game Western Conference Finals here tonight from Denver. The Lakers went six games to dispose of the Golden State Warriors, winning game six in a blowout, 122-101. In fact, only two of the six games in the series were decided by five points or fewer. The Lakers also lost two of three on the road in that series, by 15, 27 and they won game one by 5-points. The Lakers are now 1-4 ATS in their last five road games. Denver also won their series with Phoenix in six games. And like the Lakers series, only two games were within seven points. The other four were blowout wins. The Nuggets are 6-1 ATS their last seven at home vs a team with a losing road record. The Nuggets are also 5-1-1 ATS their last seven vs the Lakers from Denver. I'm taking Denver in game one and if it sticks to script, likely a blowout win by the Nuggets.

The Arizona Diamondbacks are the closest team to first place LA Dodgers in the West, as they trail by three games with their 23-18 record. The D'backs have won three straight games taking three of four in their set vs San Francisco. Merrill Kelly will start for the D'backs today. Kelly is 3-3 with a 3.57 ERA. He's been very impressive on the road with a 1.15 ERA and 3-0 record in his three away starts. What can you say about the Oakland A's. It's almost a party event when they win these days. They did win one of their four games with Texas and that took 10 innings. In fact they scored more runs in that win (9) then they did combined in the three losses (3). The A's have the worst record in baseball at 9-33 and the worst run differential in baseball at -157 runs. Just in the Rangers series they were outscored 12-27. Drew Rucinski looking for his first win. He's 0-3 in three starts with a 8.16 ERA. Don't see him getting it here today either. Play the Diamondbacks on the Run Line.

Game seven of this NBA Eastern Conference Semifinal match between the 76ers and the Lakers. The winner goes to the conference finals. Philly could have closed this series out in game six at home but came up short to the Celtics, 86-95. The Sixers shot just 36.1% from the field (their lowest of the series). They also shot 23.5% from the 3-point arc, their second worst of the series. While Boston has regained home court, home court hasn't been all that kind to them. The Celtics have lost two of their three games at home to Philly, including game five, 103-115. The Sixers star forward, Joel Embiid, is probable today with a knee injury. I like the Celtics today, mainly because the Sixers blew their chance in game six. Boston just too good a team all season long to give up a game seven on their home court. Play Boston.

It's just a dismal season for the Oakland A's. Not only are they the worst team in baseball with a 8-31 record, they also have the worst run differential in baseball at -146 runs. The A's have very little fan base left in the Bay Area as they are looking to relocate the team to Las Vegas. This are opposite for the Texas Rangers as they are in first place in the AL West with a 23-14 record and have one of the best run differentials as +86 runs. The Rangers will start Martin Perez today, who is 4-1 in his seven starts with a 3.86 ERA. He is coming off his worst start of the season, allowing seven runs over 3 2/3 innings to the Angels though the Rangers did win, 16-8. Oakland will counter with Ken Waldichuk who is 1-2 in his seven starts and a 7.25 ERA. Waldichuk's season has mirrored the A's season as he's been bad mostly with one good start out of seven. I had the Rangers on the Run line yesterday and won, so I'm going to do it again here on Friday. Take the Rangers on the Run Line.

 The Texas Rangers are in 1st place in the AL West with a 22-14 overall record. They have won seven of their last 10 games including yesterday's game over Seattle, 4-3. Now they begin this series with the A's. The A's are in last place in the West with a 8-30 record. Oakland not only has the fewest wins in baseball (8) but also the worst run differential of -142 runs. Nathan Eovaldi will start for the Rangers with a 4-2 record and 3.22 ERA. Eovaldi has been hot of late too, allowing no runs over his last two starts, 17 innings and eight hits. While the A's have not officially listed a starter, for me it doesn't really matter as they will not be getting much vs Eovaldi tonight. Play the Rangers on the Run line vs any Oakland pitcher.

Golden State and the Lakers play game five of their best of seven series with the Lakers holing a 3-1 lead and the Warriors facing elimination here tonight. The Lakers took game four at home on Monday, 104-101, and either covered or didn't depending on the number you got. For me, I had the Warriors but found a 3.5 and got the win. The Warriors are a very experience and well seasoned team and I don't expect them to go quietly. I'm taking the Warriors here tonight to get back in the fight. Play Golden State.

This series all tied up at two games each after Denver won the first two games at home and then lost the next two at Phoenix. The Suns took game three 121-114 and game four 129-124. Now the series goes back to Denver for game five here tonight. The Nuggets have only covered one of the four games in the series. So far this has been a home series, the home team winning and covering. The Nuggets won by 10 and 18 points at home in the first two games. The Suns are now 2-5 ATS in their last seven games following a straight-up win. They are also 1-4 ATS in their last five road games. The Nuggets have now covered five of the last seven in this series. And, with the series going back to Denver, I'll take the Nuggets here tonight.

The Lakers and Golden State Warriors play game four of their best of seven series here tonight from LA. The Lakers lead this series two games to one after winning game three, 127-97. The Lakers hit 52.5% from the field to just 39.6% for the Warriors. They also hit 48.4% from the three-point arc to just 29.5% for the Warriors. Both teams are as healthy as they have been all year so that won't be of concern tonight. The Warriors usually bounce back well, going 6-1 ATS their last seven games after a straight-up loss and 4-0 ATS after a straight-up loss of 10-points or more. We saw Golden State do this in the Kings series, losing game six by 19-points and then coming back and winning game seven by 20-points. I look for a rebound game here tonight from the Warriors as they even this series tonight. Play Golden State.

 The Denver Nuggets and Phoenix Suns play game four of their best of seven series here today. The Suns finally got a win to make the series 1-2 in favor of Denver with their win at home on Friday, 114-121. They will have to continue playing with their star guard in Chris Paul who is out with a groin injury. The Suns outshot the Nuggets in game three, 50-5% to 44.3% while both teams were very close in 3-point shooting. It's going to be a tough series for the Suns without Paul. I'm still taking the points here in game four with Denver. Play the Nuggets.

The Phoenix Suns find themselves in a must win spot here for game three. The Suns lost both games in Denver, 107-125 in game one and 87-97 in game two. The biggest blow came when they lost guard Chris Paul. CP3 is more than a great guard, he's their floor general and without him they are like an army without their leader. The oddsmaker has installed the Suns as a 4-point favorite here tonight. Without Paul I just don't think the Suns have anything left in the tank. I'll take the Nuggets plus the points.

Philadelphia got out of Boston with a split and that was fine with them. They were without star J.Embiid in game one and came from behind to win that game, 119-115. Then Embiid returned for game two and they lost, 87-121. Now the venue goes back to Philly and Embiid will play today. Philly saw their numbers plummet from game one to two. They went from 50.6% from the field and 44.7% from 3-point arc to just 39.2% and 20% from 3-point arc in game two. How the Celtics lost game one I'm not sure as they shot 58.7% from the field and 38.5% from the 3-point line. They also had double digit leads in that game and the Sixers were without Embiid. That's the NBA for you. I'm taking Philly today plus the points at home.

Had to expect the Warriors to come out in game one of their Semifinals match with the Lakers a bit flat. They had just come off an emotional seven game series with the Sacramento Kings and had to win game seven on the road. Their loss to the Lakers, 112-117, has them in a must-win spot here in game two. Lose and go back to LA down 0-2. I don't see that happening. If you look at if from the Lakers point of view, they stole game one and if you asked them, they would be more than happy to go back to LA with home court advantage and the series tied 1-1. That could lead to some complacency here tonight on their part. Too much experience and history winning big games and championships for this Warriors team and Stephen Curry to go down 0-2. I'll take the Warriors in a rebound effort here on Thursday.