Date | Match Up | Rating | Score | Result | Profit | Lead Time | Analysis |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
11-05-19 | Kent State v. Toledo UNDER 62 | Top | 33-35 | Loss | -110 | 27 h 23 m | Show |
My 10* MAC TOTAL BLOWOUT is on the UNDER Kent State/Toledo. Kent STate is 3-5 and in dire need of some victories if its going to go "Bowling." The Golden Flashes though have faced some incredibly tough competition this season in Arizona State, Auburn and Wisconsin. Kent State is led by QB Dustin Crum, who has ten TD's and one INT. Toledo though has a good pass defense, but a poor rush defense. That works well for Kent State, as it's run game is solid, led by the versatile dual-threat Crum. Toledo needs just one more win to become eligible and it did just enough to score a victory over EMU in OT last week. So far the Rockets have won five of seven games by six points or less. Toledo is also down to third string QB Eli Peters, who was an unremarkable nine of 18 for 138 yards last weekend. Key Trends: - Kent State has seen the total go under the number in five of its last six road games when the total is set between 56.5 and 63 points. - Toledo has seen the total go under in its last three off an extremely close win at home by 3 points or less. The verdict: Look for these two hungry teams to fight tooth and nail and for this total to fall "under" once it's all said and done! | |||||||
11-02-19 | Virginia v. North Carolina OVER 46.5 | Top | 38-31 | Win | 100 | 53 h 23 m | Show |
My 10* TOTAL CLASH OF THE TITANS is the over UVA/UNC. This is a big game for both teams and because of that, I think this total will go over the number sooner, rather than never. The Cavs are 5-3 and hungry for that sixth victory so that they can become bowl eligible. The UNC Tar Heels are 4-4 and they're also looking for a couple more victories. Virginia averages 30 PPG and it concedes 20.8. UNC averages 27.5 PPG and it allows 25.8. Key Trends: - UVA has seen the total go over the number in six of its last eight as a road dog. - UNC has seen the total eclipse the posted number in three of its last four off a victory vs. a conference rival. The verdict: UVA has won two straight in this series, including a 31-21 win last season. I expect an even higher-scoring affair here; play the over! | |||||||
11-02-19 | Marshall -10.5 v. Rice | Top | 20-7 | Win | 100 | 95 h 13 m | Show |
My 10* GAME OF THE MONTH is on Marshall. Rice is 0-8, while Marshall is 5-3. The Herd are desperate for one more victory to become eligible and a date vs. the hapless Owls, who post only 15.9 PPG is just what the doctor ordered to get untracked. Marshall enters off a hard-fought 26-23 win over WKU and it is now in control of the West Division standings. Rice QB Wiley Green doesn't have much to work with and his numbers reflect that, as he's thrown for 161 yards or fewer in all seven of his appearances. The Herd though have the top rushing attack in the conference, led by Brenden Knox with 803 rushing yards and seven TD's. Key Trends: - Marshall is 10-6 ATS in its last 16 on the road (including 2-1 ATS this year.) - The Herd are 6-2 ATS in their last eight following a SU home victory (including 2-1 ATS this season.) The verdict: The Owls are down for the count. Marshall comes in off its biggest win of the year, but it has much bigger aspirations than just earning a bowl berth. I think the Herd lay the hammer down from start to finish and I look for them to pull away down the stretch for the comfortable ATS cover; lay the points! | |||||||
11-01-19 | Navy v. Connecticut OVER 54.5 | Top | 56-10 | Win | 100 | 76 h 5 m | Show |
My 10* TOTAL BEATDOWN is on Navy/UConn OVER. UConn broke a six-game losing streak with a 56-53 win over UMass and I look for it to keep the foot on the gas here as well as it looks to pull off bac-to-back victories. Navy is 6-1 after holding on for a 41-38 win over Tulane and it'll also be out for another victory here, feeling confident after having won six straight in this series. Navy QB Malcom Perry has 18 TD's already this year and last week the Midshipmen had 453 total yards of offense. Overall Navy averages 37.9 PPG and it allows 19.7. The Huskies had 539 yards of offense vs. the Minutemen last weekend. Key Trends: - The Huskies have allowed at least 35 points in four of their last six matchups. - The Midshipmen have four 40-point games this year, including in two of their last three. The verdict: The overall situation and the numbers both point to a "shootout" in my opinion; play the over! | |||||||
10-31-19 | West Virginia v. Baylor UNDER 57 | Top | 14-17 | Win | 100 | 75 h 60 m | Show |
My 10* TOTAL BIG TIGER is on the UNDER WVU/Baylor. Baylor averages 38.9 PPG, which ranks it 12th in the country. The Bears have a balanced offense, which I believe will concentrate on the run today vs. a WVU team that's lost three straight, but which will also try to keep the Bears offense off the field of play today by controlling the ball while on offense. Baylor only allows 19.1 PPG and I think the Mountaineers have a difficult time mounting much of an offensive attack tonight (WVU is predictable and one-dimensional on offense with a run game which averages only 89 PPG.) Key Trends: - WVU has seen the total dip under in four of its last five following its bye week. - Baylor has seen the total dip under in five of its last six after scoring 37 points or more in its last game. The verdict: I expect more of a "chess match," than a "shootout;" play the under! | |||||||
10-26-19 | Washington State v. Oregon -14 | Top | 35-37 | Loss | -109 | 105 h 55 m | Show |
My 10* CLASH OF THE TITANS is on Oregon. 4-3 Washington State is going to get overwhelmed here today by 6-1 Oregon in my opinion. WSU posted a 41-10 win over Colorado last weekend, while the Ducks got over a major hurdle last week by taking out Washington. WSU QB Anthony Gordon leads a passing game which is No. 1 in the country with 440.7 YPG. Yes the defense held Colorado to 320 yards last week, but the week prior it conceded 532 to ASU. Ducks' QB Justin Herbert has 21 TD's and no INT's so far this season. Oregon's defense though is among the best in the country, allowing only 11.9 PPG. The Ducks have also forced 12 INT's this year. Key Trends: - Oregon is 4-1 ATS in its last five vs. the Conference. - The Cougars are interestingly just 1-4 ATS in their last five after posting 280 yards or more in their previous game. The verdict: For me, the WSU defense is the weak point for the visitors and I look for Herbert to light it up. Combined with the home side's improved defensive play this season, all signs do indeed point to a Ducks ATS rout; lay the points! | |||||||
10-26-19 | San Diego State v. UNLV OVER 46 | Top | 20-17 | Loss | -107 | 105 h 54 m | Show |
My 10* TOTAL U OF THE U is on the OVER SDSU/UNLV. SDSU is bowl eligible and 6-1 overall after beating San Jose State 27-17 last weekend. So far the Aztecs have been exceptional defensively, but I think the visitors unit will be tested here today. The Rebels lost to Boise State, but then bounced back with a win over Vanderbilt. Overall the Rebels average 25.4 PPG and they concede 36.1. Key Trends: - SDSU has in fact seen the total go over in interestingly four of its last five after a win of ten points or more over a conference rival. - UNLV has seen the total eclipse the posted number in six of its last eight off a road loss. The verdict: UNLV will be airing it from start to finish and it's defense has been terrible. Look for the Owls to take some rare shots down field as well today. This number is a shade low, play the over! | |||||||
10-25-19 | USC -13 v. Colorado | Top | 35-31 | Loss | -106 | 82 h 36 m | Show |
My 10* BLOWOUT is on USC. Yes USC has major issues at the RB position, but I still think it's going to have its way with the porous Buffalo defense. The Trojans are tied with Utah for the lead after last week's commanding 41-14 victory at home over Arizona. USC back-up QB Kedon Slovis has looked better each time he's hit the field and he has to be feeling confident here after throwing for four TD's and no INT's over his last two games. The Buffs have managed just 13 points in each of their last two games, with QB Steven Montez averaging just 130 passing yards. Key Trends: - The Buffs are allowing almost five TD's per game to opponents. - Colorado allowed Washington State to convert on three plays of over 20 yards last week. The verdict: Last week USC's defense came up with seven sacks. This one has disaster written all over it for the home side in all three phases; I'm laying the points! | |||||||
10-24-19 | SMU v. Houston UNDER 68.5 | Top | 34-31 | Win | 100 | 57 h 21 m | Show |
My 10* TOTAL OF THE WEEK is on the UNDER SMU/Houston. The Mustangs are 7-0 and they trounced Temple 45-21 last time out. The Cougars are 3-4 and they're going to be hungry for a victory here as time is running out to become eligible. Houston's offense is simply not good enough to score many points here. The best strategy that the home side can employ here is to control the ball while on offense. Key Trends: - SMU has seen the total dip under the number in nine of its last 13 after playing a conference game. - Houston has seen the total go under the number in its last four off a no-cover where it won as the favorite. The verdict: The Cougars do come in off the 24-17 win over UConn and they definitely won't be going down without a fight today. I'm expecting a lower-scoring defensive war; play the under! | |||||||
10-19-19 | Nevada v. Utah State OVER 58.5 | Top | 10-36 | Loss | -110 | 53 h 19 m | Show |
My 10* TOTAL CLASH OF THE TITANS is on the OVER Nevada/Utah State. This is a big Mountain West Conference game. Nevada is 4-2 after a 41-38 shootout win over San Jose State, while Utah State is now 3-2 after a 42-6 loss to No. 2 LSU. Nevada was blown out by Hawaii two weeks ago, so it made a change at QB last weekend and the move paid immediate dividends with Malik Henry going for 352 yards and two TD's. Clearly Utah State will be looking to bounce back after last week's frustrating setback. Previous to that the Aggies had won three straight Key Trends: "We are coming off a bye week, so we've had a little more time to evaluate them,” said Utah State coach Gary Anderson. “They are a very tough-minded team, overall, that has dealt with some ups and downs, which this crazy game of football and this conference will give you. They have been resilient, they've been tough-minded and they've battled through everything that has come their way. They started a new quarterback last game and he did a nice job.” The verdict: Utah State averages 32 PPG and it has a dynamic QB in Jordan Love. Nevada's new QB Henry isn't afraid to air it out either. I look for this one to sneak over the number sooner, rather than later! | |||||||
10-19-19 | Michigan +9.5 v. Penn State | Top | 21-28 | Win | 100 | 51 h 35 m | Show |
My 10* BIG TIGER is on Michigan. Clearly it's a big game. I got down early and have a favorable line, but regardless, I think this one is going to come down to the wire. MIchigan is 5-1, and Penn State is 6-0. Last year the Wolverines won this game 42-7. Michigan beat Illinois 42-25 last week. Michigan got by Iowa and Penn State and its hands full with the Hawkeyes last week. The Wolverines average 30 PPG, while conceding just 17. Michigan QB Shea Patterson had three passsing TD's and one rushing in last weeks' victory. Penn State averages 42 PPG, while allowing only eight. But I think the Nittany Lions numbers are skewed, due to a couple of lop-sided blowouts in the early season. Key Trends: - Penn State is just 1-6 ATS in its last seven following an ATS victory. - Michigan is 8-4 ATS in its last 12 vs. teams with winning records. The verdict: I think this will be a tight, defensive affair. Grab the points! | |||||||
10-19-19 | Georgia Tech +18.5 v. Miami-FL | Top | 28-21 | Win | 100 | 43 h 7 m | Show |
My 10* SUPER SHOCKER is on Georgia Tech. Massive upset? Beatdown of epic proportions? Or something firmly in between?! I think the 1-5 Yellow Jackets will keep this one more competitive than what this spread would suggest vs. the 3-3 Hurricanes. I think this sets up as a letdown spot for the Canes after their upset win over then No. 20 Virginia last weekend. The Yellow Jackets on the other hand will be in a foul mood after four straight losses, most recently a 41-23 setback at Duke. Georgia Tech runs the triple-option, but QB James Graham and the Yellow Jackets have struggled on the offensive end so far. But while Miami did look impressive on the defensive side last week vs. the Cavs, the week previous it lost 42-35 to Virginia Tech. The verdict: I think the home side gets caught looking ahead as well to back-to-back tough road games vs. Pittsburgh (leading the Coastal Division right now) and at FSU. The Yellow Jackets have nothing to lose here except another game; I'm grabbing the points! | |||||||
10-18-19 | Ohio State v. Northwestern OVER 49 | Top | 52-3 | Win | 100 | 36 h 13 m | Show |
My 10* play is on Ohio State/Northwestern OVER. Will Northwestern be able to put up any points vs. an OSU defense that allows only 8.8 PPG on average? Ohio State is 6-0 and it'll be cautious here to not look past its opponent. The Buckeyes will indeed look to go up early and then maintain the rest of the way. The Wildcats though come out of their bye week with nothing to lose. NW needs to string wins together if it has any hopes of going bowling and it won't be holding anything back on the offense side of things as it tries to keep pace with its juggernaut opponent tonight. From a situational stand point, this one definitely sets up as a "shootout" in my opinion. Key Trends: - Ohio State has seen the total go over in five of its last six as a road favorite of 14.5 points or more. - NW has seen the total eclipse the posted number in four of its last five after having lost three of its last four games. The verdict: Ohio State is also the No. 2 ranked team in the nation as far as scoring. Look for this one to fly over sooner, rather than later! | |||||||
10-18-19 | Pittsburgh v. Syracuse +3.5 | Top | 27-20 | Loss | -110 | 35 h 34 m | Show |
My 10* play is on Syracuse. 4-2 Pittburgh invades 3-3 Syracuse on Friday night. Outright victory is clearly in the cards, but let's grab the points. Pittsburgh started off the year slowly, but it's since turned thing around with three straight wins. Pitt has looked shaky at times though, especially in a loss to Penn State. The Orange finished 10-3 last year, but so far they've had some troubles adjusting with new QB Tommy DeVito under center. The verdict: But with a much more high-profile game at home vs. Miami next weekend, I think the Panthers get caught looking past this clearly desperate Orange team. This is a season-defining contest for Syracuse and I expect it to play with an extreme sense of desperation in all phases. Also note that Pitt is just 1-3 ATS in its last four after three or ore consecutive SU victories, while Syraucse is 3-1 ATS In its last four afer scoring 14 points or less in its previous game; I'm grabbing the points! | |||||||
10-17-19 | UCLA +7 v. Stanford | Top | 34-16 | Win | 100 | 29 h 55 m | Show |
My 10* BIG TIGER is on UCLA. I got down early and have UCLA at the opening line, but since the Cardinal reported that third-string QB Jack West is going to start, the line has dropped between 3 and 4. Regardless, I believe this one now definitely favors the Bruins. UCLA's offense has come to life of late under QB Austin Burton and with nothing to lose (except another game!), the last place Bruins will be giving the pivot the green light from start to finish. The Cardinal beat the Huskies 23-13 two weeks ago, but the change at QB is going to be difficult in my estimation. Key Trends: - UCLA is 3-1 ATS in its last four as a road dog in the 3.5 to 7 points range. - Stanford is just 9-11 ATS in its last 20 after playing a conference game. - The Cardinal are a poor 1-4 ATS in their last five off a home win vs. a confernece rival. The verdict: I believe that an outright upset is possible, but in the end I'm grabbing the points! | |||||||
10-16-19 | South Alabama v. Troy OVER 54.5 | Top | 13-37 | Loss | -110 | 34 h 13 m | Show |
My 10* TOTAL BLOWOUT is on the over South Alabama/Troy. South Alabama has faced some stiff competition in Nebraska and Memphis early, which is definitely a big reason why its just 1-5. Troy though has been terrible, especially defensively this year and I think it'll have its hands full with this hungry underdog and QB Cephus Johnson, who has shown signficiant strides with each outing. Both teams have had a week off to prepare as well. But as mentioned off the top, the Trojans secondary has been downright terrible, ranked 124th out out 130 FBS teams by conceding 10.22 yards per attempt. Key Trends: - South Alabama has interestingly seen the total go over the number in three of its last four off a cover where it lost as an underdog. - Troy has seen the total go over the number in five of its last six following its bye week. The verdict: With the Jaguars pushing the pace and airing it from start to finish and with the home side having to match pace, I look for this total to soar over sooner, rather than later; play the over! | |||||||
10-12-19 | Arkansas v. Kentucky OVER 53.5 | Top | 20-24 | Loss | -108 | 102 h 53 m | Show |
My 10* TOTAL CLASH OF THE TITANS is on the over Arkansas/Kentucky. This is a big game for both of these 2-3 teams. Kentucky has had a week off to absorb three straight losses and it comes into this one focused and motivated to get off the schneid. Arkansas also enters off its bye week rested and ready to try and pull off an upset here. Led by Nick Starkel, the Razorbacks aren't going to be afraid to air this one out (Starkel so far has 1000 passing yards and 11 TD's.) Kentucky averages 23.4 PPG and it concedes 24.4. Something has got to give here. Key Trends: - Arkansas has interestingly seen the total go over the number in five of its last six off a cover where it lost SU as a dog. - Kentucky has seen the total soar over the number in seven of its last nine as a home favorite. The verdict: Both rested teams will push from start to finish and I expect that to translate into production on the offensive side of the ball; this number is low, play the over! | |||||||
10-12-19 | USC +11.5 v. Notre Dame | Top | 27-30 | Win | 100 | 102 h 53 m | Show |
My 10* GAME OF THE WEEK is on USC. USC is 3-2 and Notre Dame is 4-1. The Trojans enter off a 28-14 loss to Washington, while the Irish rolled over Bowling Green 52-0 last weekend. USC though has had a week off to digest its latest setback and with Kedon Slovis now directing the show under center, I believe the visitors can keep this one closer than what this spread would suggest (732 yards passing with five TD's and four INTs). USC also has three backs with over 150 rushing yards, so Slovis has help. USC only allows 411.4 yards of total offense per game, so I think Irish QB Ian Book takes a step back this weekend, after last Saturday's "cream puff" matchup. Key Trends: - USC is already 2-0 ATS this year after one or more consecutive losses ATS. - Notre Dame is 0-2 ATS in its last two after two straight home wins by 14 points or more. The verdict: I think the rested home side can keep this one very close. No outright, but definitely grab up all these points! | |||||||
10-11-19 | Colorado +20.5 v. Oregon | Top | 3-45 | Loss | -106 | 84 h 15 m | Show |
My 10* BIG TIGER is on Colorado. Am I suggesting that you should "sprinkle" a little on the money line in this one? Of course not. But I do think that the Buffs can keep this one close enough to comfortably sneak in through the back door down the stretch with the monster spread they've been afforded here. The Buffs pulled off an upset win on the road over Arizona State, before then losing to Arizona this past weekend. Still, Colorado also has a victory over Nebraska as well. Buffs' senior QB Steven Montez is arguably playing the best of his career thus far, averaging 8.3 yards per passing attempt. Yes Oregon is still the best team in the confernce and Justin Herbert faces a weak Colorado secondary, but I think Montez keeps his team in this one late. Key Trends: - Colorado is 3-1 ATS in its last four as a road dog in the 14.5 to 21 points range. - Oregon is just 2-5 ATS in its last seven off a home win vs. a conference rival. The verdict: The Buffs haven't been an "easy out," as both of their losses have been tight. Expect this one to follow suit and grab the points! | |||||||
10-10-19 | Syracuse v. NC State OVER 57 | Top | 10-16 | Loss | -107 | 60 h 59 m | Show |
My 10* TOTAL OF THE WEEK is on the over Syracuse/NC State. From both a "situational" stand point and also when looking at it from a trend based angle, I believe this one definitely sets up as a "shootout," rather than a low-scoring battle. Both teams are 3-2, but 0-1 in ACC play. Both teams also come out of their bye-weeks. The Orange offense is firing on all cylinders with QB Tommy DeVito, who already has 1,230 passing yards and 11 TD's (eight in his last two games.) The Orange defense has forced 12 turnovers, but it's still middle of the road. NC State is desperate as it turns to a new QB today in Bailey Hockman. The WolfPack have injuries on both sides of the ball, so the bye week could not have come at a better time for NC State. This is a big Conference game and I'm expecting a shootout on Prime Time. Key Trends: - Syracuse has seen the total eclipse the posted number in its last three as a road dog of seven points or less. - NC State has seen the total go over the number in six of eight this year as a favorite in the 3.5 to ten points range. The verdict: I believe the stage is set for a sprint from start to finish; play the over! | |||||||
10-05-19 | San Diego State v. Colorado State OVER 51.5 | Top | 24-10 | Loss | -109 | 102 h 31 m | Show |
My 10* TOTAL BIG TIGER is on the OVER SDSU/Colorado State. SDSU is 3-1 and Colorado State is 1-4. The Aztecs enter focused and hungry after suffering their first loss of the season last week, falling against Utah State. Colorado State’s season lies in the balance after three straight losses. This team needs to start winning immediately, as another loss will be the nail in the coffin for any bowl aspirations. The Aztecs have been impressive defensively early, but I think the team opens up the playbook today as it looks to jump-start an offense which is averaging only 19 PPG. The Rams are averaging 32 PPG, led by QB Collin Hill, who has 837 passing yards and eight TD’s. Defensively though the Rams are conceding 40 PPG. Key Trends: - SDSU has seen the total go over the number in three of its last six vs. teams with losing records. - CSU has seen the total soar over in three of its last four as an underdog in the 3.5 to ten points range. The verdict: SDSU has the perfect opponent today to get its offense untracked. The home side has nothing to lose and I expect it to push the pace from start to finish. This number is a little low, play the over! | |||||||
10-05-19 | Virginia Tech +14 v. Miami-FL | Top | 42-35 | Win | 100 | 96 h 27 m | Show |
My 10* GAME OF THE MONTH is on Virginia Tech. The Hokies enter off a loss to Duke, 45-10. VT will be focused on the task at hand here and while I’m not in fact calling for the outright upset, I do think that the stage is set for a very competitive battle. Miami Florida is just 2-2 as well, most recently holding on for a tight 17-12 win over lowly CMU. This is a pivotal game as each team looks to keep their bowl hopes alive. Last week VT QB Ryan Willis was 7 of 8 for 112 passing yards, one TD and one INT last week. Fortunately for Willis and company, the Hurricanes have also looked horrible on both sides of the field. Miami also comes out of its bye week, and I think that rest is going to lead to rust. Key Trends: - Miami is just 1-4 ATS in its last I’ve following a SU win. - The Hurricanes are a poor 4-12 ATS in their last 16 conference games. The verdict: Willis won’t have an easy time moving the ball, but neither will Miami. In what I expect to be a sloppy game, I’m going to grab all the points and expect a “nail-biter!” | |||||||
10-04-19 | Central Florida v. Cincinnati UNDER 60.5 | Top | 24-27 | Win | 100 | 98 h 27 m | Show |
My 10* TOTAL OF THE WEEK on the UNDER UCF/Cincinnati. UCF is 4-1, while Cincinnati is 3-1. The Knights are already 1-0 in Conference play, but this is the Bearcats vs. league game. After last week’s 56-21 home smoke job of UConn, I think the high-powered visiting side plays a bit more conservatively in this difficult AAC road venue. Cincinnati returns home after smashing Marshall 52-14 last week. While each sides’ opponent featured a weak defense last weekend, that’s not the case this Friday night, as note that the Bearcats allow only 130.6 rushing yards and 167 passing yards per game and they’ve already posted ten sacks and two INT’s (an average of only 20.8 PPG). UCF concedes just 324.8 total YPG and it’s recorded 11 sacks, four INT’s and one pick six. Key Trends: - UCF has seen the total go under the number in six of its last seven off a home blowout win by 28 points or more - Cincinnati has seen the total dip under in nine of its last 13 as an underdog. The verdict: Yes it’s true that both sides can score at a prodigious rate, but I think it’s the under-rated and under the radar defensive units which will ultimately be the main story line’s in tomorrow’s summaries; play the under! | |||||||
10-03-19 | Georgia Southern v. South Alabama +12 | Top | 20-17 | Win | 100 | 74 h 5 m | Show |
My 10* GAME OF THE WEEK is on South Alabama. No outright victory, but I expect this one to be a lot closer than what this line/spread would suggest. Both teams are terrible, meaning that the home field advantage can’t be overlooked as very real factor for the Jaguars tonight. The Georgia Southern Eagles are 1-3, while South Alabama is 1-4. Last year Georgia Southern went 10-3 and it beat EMU in its bowl game, but it lost all of its talent to graduation and now the Eagles are grounded. Georgia Southern’s only win this year has come against FCS Maine. Georgia Southern is also allowing 35 PPG thorugh its first three FBS contests. The Jaguars are only 1-4, but they’ve had the much more difficult schedule to this point. Note that South Alabama played Nebraska in its opener and only lost by 14 (put up 21 points of its own!) And the Jaguars other contests came against Memphis and tough road contests vs. UAB and ULM. Key Trends: - South Alabama is 4-1 ATS in its last five vs. teams with losing records. - The Eagles are only 1-7 ATS in their last eight games played on field turf. The verdict: I think Georgia Southern is on the ropes and I look for the home side to risk life and limb to pull off the upset tonight. That said, let’s grab all these points! | |||||||
09-28-19 | NC State +6 v. Florida State | Top | 13-31 | Loss | -104 | 102 h 60 m | Show |
My 10* CLASH-OF-THE-TITANS is on NC State. I think the visitors will at the very least, take this one right down to the wire. The Wolfpack are 3-1 to start, while the Seminoles are 2-2 after beating Louisville at home last weekend. NC State can score, it averages 34.0 PPG, with RB Zonovan Knight leading the charge with 269 rushing yards and three major scores over three games. The WolfPack are also getting solid play from QB Matthew McKay, who has three TD’s and one INT. The run game is strong for the visitors as well with Ricky Person Jr, who will test FSU’s 91st ranked run defense, which allows 159 yards per game. FSU QB James Blackman has also been a manager for the most part, with the Seminoles offense centred around RB Cam Akers. Note though that NC State is allowing just 76 rushing yards per game this year, ranked 14th in the nation. Key Trends: - NC State is 5-1 ATS in its last six off a no-cover where it won SU as the favorite. - FSU is only 6-10 ATS in its last 16 at home. - The Seminoles are a poor 5-11 ATS in their last 16 after playing a conference game. The verdict: While I do think the outright win isn’t out of the question, in the end I’ll recommend grabbing as many points as you can in a contest which I envision coming down to whichever of these two hungry sides has its hands on the ball last! | |||||||
09-28-19 | Northwestern v. Wisconsin OVER 46 | Top | 15-24 | Loss | -109 | 95 h 32 m | Show |
My 10* TOTAL BIG TIGER is on the over Northwestern/Wisconsin. Northwestern is hungry here sitting at 1-2 and it knows it’ll have its hands full trying to hang with 3-0 Wisconsin. Northwestern was humbled by Michigan State last week, but it’ll have to keep the foot on the gas if it has any hope to keep up with surging Wisconsin, which just upset Michigan last week. Hunter Johnson has struggled under center for the Wildcats and his ineptitude has put added pressure on an already overtaxed Wildcats defense. And that’s bad news facing the Badgers, who won their first two games by a combined score of 110-0. Key Trends: - Northwestern has seen the total go over the number in seven of its last nine on the road. - The Wildcats have seen the total eclipse the posted number in eight of their last 12 as a dog. - The Badgers have seen the total go over the number in eight of their last ten when the total in the contest is set between 42.5 and 49 points. The verdict: I expect a wide-open affair from start to finish; this number is a little low, play the over! | |||||||
09-27-19 | Penn State v. Maryland UNDER 60.5 | Top | 59-0 | Win | 100 | 84 h 10 m | Show |
My 10* play on the under Penn State/Maryland. I think Penn State comes out a bit flat to open after its bye week and because of that, I look for this total to sneak below the number once it’s all said and done. Back on Sept. 14th the Nittany Lions escaped a low-scoring 17-10 battle with Pitt and while this one might produce a bit more offense, I’m not expecting by much. And that’s because Maryland ALSO comes out of its bye week and it’s looking to rebound though after it fell 20-17 to Temple. The home side will also be out to avenge a 38-3 loss to the Nittany Lions last year. When I make my pick on a total (in all sports), I like to look at the overall “situation” that each team finds itself in coming into that contest and in my opinion, from a situational stand point I believe this one definitely sets up as more of a “chess match,” than a wide-open shootout. Key Trends: - Penn State has seen the total go under the number in nine of its last 14 vs. the conference. - Maryland has seen the total dip below the posted number in three of its last four as an underdog in the 3.5 to ten points range. The verdict: Penn State contained Maryland’ RB Anthony McFarland Jr. last season and I predict a duplicate performance here as well. This number is just a shade high, play the under! | |||||||
09-27-19 | Duke v. Virginia Tech -2.5 | Top | 45-10 | Loss | -115 | 83 h 11 m | Show |
My 10* play on Virginia Tech. Both teams are 2-1. The Hokies have looked shaky so far this season, losing to Boston College in Week 1 (five turnovers) and then struggling to get past ODU and FCS Furman. Duke meanwhile has looked a bit better, getting smashed by Alabama in its opener, followed by lop-sided wins over North Carolina A&T and MTSU. The Hokies have a big opportunity today on home field though to reverse their early struggles and I believe they step up and do just that. Note that VT has won three straight in this series. Duke’ QB Quentin Harris has looked sharp in the early going, but his numbers are skewed over the last two games facing such poor competition. The Hokies sport the 88th ranked run defense, which matches up well against Duke, which averages 181 rushing yards per game thus far. Duke has given Harris plenty of protection so far, allowing only one sack to this point, but note that the Hokies rank 17th in the country with 3.33 sacks per game. The home side turns to Ryan Willis to air it out today to Tre Turner and Tayvion Robinson. Key Trend: - Duke has only forced three turnovers this year. The verdict: I’m unconvinced that Duke can keep up this pace and I think that its young QB finally takes a step back today vs. the more experienced home side and in this difficult road venue; lay the short points! | |||||||
09-26-19 | Navy v. Memphis OVER 55 | Top | 23-35 | Win | 100 | 60 h 23 m | Show |
My 10* NCAAF TOTAL OF THE WEEK is on the over Navy/Memphis. After scuffling the last couple of season, the Midshipmen are out to prove the doubters wrong this year. Navy is averaging nearly 380 yards per game on the ground and while the defense has looked good early, that’s mainly due to the level of competition. Memphis has also looked good on the defensive side of things, but once again that’s been because of early competition in my opinion. Now that AAC play is here, I think these defensive units have a much more difficult time. Each has looked good on the offensive end in the early going and there’s no reason not to think that won’t carry over in my opinion either. Key Trends: - Navy has seen the total go over the number in 13 of 19 this year as an underdog in the 10.5 to 21 points range. - Memphis has seen the total go over the number in 11 of its last 16 at home. - The Tigers have seen the total soar over in four of their last five off a road victory. The verdict: A great situational play as I’m expecting a wide-open affair from start to finish; play the over! | |||||||
09-21-19 | Colorado v. Arizona State OVER 48.5 | Top | 34-31 | Win | 100 | 57 h 38 m | Show |
My 10* TOTAL ULTIMATE OF THE ULTIMATE is on the OVER Colorado/ASU. Both teams are hungry for a victory and I believe each is going to push the pace from start to finish. ASU is fresh of a monumental upset for the Spartans and it has to be feeling confident here as well as the last time these team’s met in Tempe, ASU picked up the 41-30 victory. That said, Colorado posted the seven point victory in this matchup last year at home, with three passing TD’s from its QB Steven Montez. Colorado won’t be lacking for motivation here either after coming up short to Air Force last time out. From a situational stand point, I absolutely believe that this one sets up as a high-scoring “shootout,” rather than a low-scoring “chess match.” Key Trends: - Colorado has seen the total go over the number in 12 of its last 15 off an upset loss as a home favorite. - ASU has seen the total eclipse the posted number in 11 of its last 17 off an upset win as a road underdog. The verdict: The opener of Pac 12 play for both and I expect some fireworks; play the over! | |||||||
09-21-19 | Central Florida -11 v. Pittsburgh | Top | 34-35 | Loss | -110 | 50 h 10 m | Show |
My 10* BIG TIGER is on UCF. UCF started last year 3-0 and it enters this one with a 3-0 record as well. I believe the Knights keep the foot on the gas here and I have a hard time seeing the Panthers keeping pace down the stretch. And if recent history is any precedence, then UCF has to be loving its chances as it destroyed Pitt last year 45-14. The Knights’ offense has been impressive, averaging 50 PPG so far. Last week the Knights smashed Stanford 45-27. Pittsburgh stumbled down the stretch last year to finish 7-7 and it’s also stumbled out of the gates this season by going 1-2. Last week the Panthers feel 17-10 at Penn State. Key Trends: - The Knights allow only 13.7 PPG The verdict: UCF QB Dillon Gabriel went 22 of 40 for 347 yards, four TD’s and zero INT’s last week. All four TD passes went to four different players. Pittsburgh has gotten decent play from QB Kenny Pickett, but I’m not reading too much into last week’s stats. Look for the Golden Knight’s smothering defensive play to be too much for the home side to handle down the stretch; lay the points! | |||||||
09-20-19 | Air Force v. Boise State OVER 55 | Top | 19-30 | Loss | -109 | 82 h 55 m | Show |
My 10* TOTAL OF THE WEEK is on the over Air Force/Boise State. These are two teams “firing on all cylinders” to open the season and I look for that momentum to translate into offensive production on the field of play this evening. Both teams are undefeated with victories over Power 5 programs already on their resumes. These are two very productive offenses, but each gets the job done differently. The Broncos are going to have a hard time slowing down the Falcons’ rushing attack, which ranks second in the country at 353.5 YPG (it has 22 runs of ten or more yards.) Boise State QB Hank Bachmeier has a stiff task tonight facing this revamped Air Force defense, but he has a pair of solid backs in Robert Mahone and George Holani to keep the visitors honest. I see both sides pushing the pace and from a situational stand point, there’s no question that this one sets up as more of a high-scoring “shootout,” than a low-scoring “chess-match.” Key Trends: - The Falcons have seen the total eclipse the posted number in five of their last six as an underdog in the 3.5 to ten points range. - The Broncos have seen the total go over the number in six of their last eight off a SU home victory. The verdict: As mentioned off the top, I expect a wide open pace from start to finish; play the over! | |||||||
09-19-19 | Houston +5 v. Tulane | Top | 31-38 | Loss | -104 | 59 h 42 m | Show |
My 10* GAME OF THE WEEK is on Houston. It’s the opening of AAC play for both teams. Houston is just 1-2 after back to back losses to two tough opponents in Oklahoma and Washington State. D’Eriq King has been relatively quiet so far, but I think that’s been because of the level of competition to open. The Green Wave have made significant strides and enter at 2-1, but I think they’ll have a hard time containing King and company and this Cougars offense which finished No. 16 in passing in the nation last year. Justin McMillan is a legitimate dual threat back for the Green Wave, but I don’t expect the Cougars to give up as many yards to him as they did to Jalen Hurts. Key Trends: - Houston is 10-4 ATS in its last 14 when playing with six or less days rest. - Tulane is just 1-3 ATS in its last four off a home win by 17 points or more. The verdict: Tulane lacks the scoring punch of Houston and while I wouldn’t be shocked by an outright upset, I think this one comes right down to the wire; grab the points! | |||||||
09-14-19 | Oklahoma v. UCLA +23.5 | Top | 48-14 | Loss | -110 | 123 h 16 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* NCAAF GAME OF THE YEAR on UCLA No outright victory obviously, but after starting 0-2 the UCLA Bruins are going to be desperate to pull off an upset here. With nothing to lose and playing with a sense of season ending desperation, I do indeed believe that the home side will keep this one competitive until the final moments. And would anyone fault the Sooners if they were caught “looking past” their lowly opponent in some small way today, especially after easily beating Houston and South Dakota? UCLA has talent on the defensive side of the ball and Sooners’ QB Jalen Hurts will be tested. OU’s D though is still trying to find itself under new coordinator Alex Grinch, so UCLA RB Joshua Kelly and company will have their opportunities. Key Trends: - Oklahoma is a poor 1-5 ATS in its last six as a road favorite. - UCLA is 3-1 ATS in its last four off an upset loss as a favorite. The verdict: UCLA has the size up front to make things difficult for OU. No outright, but expect this one to come down to the wire. Grab the points! | |||||||
09-14-19 | Alabama v. South Carolina UNDER 60.5 | Top | 47-23 | Loss | -120 | 119 h 48 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* TOTAL OF THE MONTH on the under Alabama/South Carolina. Alabama comes to town off wins over Duke and New Mexico State, while South Carolina was shocked in a 24-20 loss to UNC in its opener, before then annihilating FCS opponent Charleston Southern 72-10. Alabama will be out to establish the run early and often vs. its first SEC opponent this year, so far it’s ranked 31st in the country in that department. But South Carolina has looked much better on the defensive side of the ball this year, especially up front. Imposing their will in the trenches is the trademark of the Tide and I look for offensive coordinator Steve Sarkisian to stick to the run throughout, despite having mobile QB Tua Tagovailoa. Key Trends: - UNC gouged USC for 238 rushing yards, so as mentioned off the top, look for the visitors to try and establish the run game while on offense from start to finish. - South Carolina lost its QB Jake Bentley in the loss to UNC. Ryan Hilinski was 24 of 30 for 282 yards and two TD’s in last week’s blowout win, but obviously he’s being thrown to the Wolves here vs. the best potential defense in the conference. The verdict: How can the Gamecocks help their backup QB today? Clearly by protecting him and by running the ball effectively. And so with both teams firmly committed to establishing the run and assert itself in the trenches, all signs do indeed point to the under as the correct call here! | |||||||
09-13-19 | Kansas +22 v. Boston College | Top | 48-24 | Win | 100 | 100 h 30 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* play on Kansas. Outright victory? Of course not. But I think that BC gets caught looking past its lowly opponent today. BC upset VT 35-28 in Week 1 and then followed it up with a simple 45-13 victory over FCS Richmond in Week 2. KU beat Indiana State 24-17 in its opener, before stumbling 12-7 at home to Coastal Carolina. Kansas has a big bruising back in Khalil Herbert and I believe he’ll be a difference maker today; so far he has 170 rushing yards over the first two games. Key Trends: - KU has played solid defense so far, allowing an average of 4.9 yards per play. - BC has allowed 403 total yards per game so far, so the opportunities for KU will be there tonight. The verdict: BC has a great back in AJ Dillon, but as pointed out above, I think the conditions are right for a much more competitive battle than what this spread would suggest; grab up all those points! | |||||||
09-13-19 | North Carolina v. Wake Forest UNDER 66 | Top | 18-24 | Win | 100 | 98 h 55 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* play on the under UNC/Wake Forest. After starting 2-0, the Tar Heels will be looking to carry that momentum over here. Most recently Mack Brown’s guys beat Coastal rival Miami. The Demon Deacons enter off victories over Utah State and Rice. UNC has gotten better than expected QB play from Sam Howell, but the offense still revolves around the run game and Javonte Williams, who has 178 rushing yards thus far. Wake has gotten exceptional play from its dual threat QB as well in Jamie Newman, who has six TD’s and no INT’s so far. Key Trends: - Despite struggling against the pass in the early going, the Deacs do already have five sacks this season. - Look for Wake Forest to utilize the run game tonight, as UNC just gave up 179 yards on the ground to Miami. The verdict: This is a big game and on the short week, I believe these under-rated defensive units become the main story lines in tomorrow’s summaries; play the under! | |||||||
09-07-19 | Rutgers v. Iowa OVER 49.5 | Top | 0-30 | Loss | -110 | 116 h 32 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* play on the over Rutgers/Iowa. Rutgers got 340 passing yards and two TD’s from McLane Carter in its blowout win over UMass last weekend. He did however also throw three picks. Iowa only allowed 14 points in its victory last week, but it got 252 yards and three TD’s from QB Nate Stanley and the team would also go on to post 213 rushing yards. Key Trends: - The Scarlet Knights were horrible on third-down defense vs. the lowly Minutemen last week, allowing seven third-down conversions out of 16 attempts. - Iowa had the nation’s best third-down offense last week, converting nine of 14 attempts. The verdict: Rutgers has seen the total go over in six of its last seven when the total in the contest is set between 42. and 49 points. This one has “shootout” written all over it in my opinion; play the over! | |||||||
09-07-19 | Ohio v. Pittsburgh -5.5 | Top | 10-20 | Win | 100 | 115 h 32 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* play on Pittsburgh. Pittsburgh stumbled vs. Virginia last weekend, but I think the Panthers make adjustments and bounce back big vs. Ohio. The Bobcats are a legitimate MAC contender, but with a game at Penn State next weekend, clearly Pittsburgh can ill afford to look past its potentially dangerous opponent today. However, I’m not reading too much into any “trap” this weekend. I would have though if Pittsburgh had won last week, but because of the setback, that factor gets thrown out the window completely. Key Trends: - Ohio is just 3-4 ATS in its last seven after a win by 21 points or more. - Pittsburgh is 3-1 ATS in its last four after a loss by ten points or more to a conference rival. The verdict: The Panthers’ offense stalled against Virginia’s aggressive unit, but i think that Pittsburgh gets back on track with a full four quarter effort and before it’s big matchup on the road next weekend; lay the points! | |||||||
09-06-19 | Marshall v. Boise State UNDER 55 | Top | 7-14 | Win | 100 | 101 h 43 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* play on the under Marshall/Boise State. Marshall cruised to victory with a blowout win over FCS opponent VMI. No big surprise there. Boise State though roared out to an early lead vs. FSU and then it continued to hold on for the eventual upset victory. Can anyone say “letdown” spot? For both teams! I think Marshall struggles in this difficult road venue and I believe the Broncos take a step back after last weekend’s emotional victory. This is a big game for both teams though, with a run at the Group of 5’s top spot in the New Year’s Six. Marshall is going to see a much stiffer test this time around, as Boise State registered four sacks last week vs. the Seminoles. Key Trends: - Marshall has seen the total go under the number in ten of its last 14 when playing with six or less days rest. - Boise State has seen the total dip under in four of its last five as a home favorite in the 7.5 to 14 points range. The verdict: For all the reasons listed above, play the under! | |||||||
09-06-19 | Wake Forest v. Rice +18.5 | Top | 41-21 | Loss | -108 | 100 h 44 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* play on Rice. Rice didn’t look very good offensively in last week’s 14-7 loss to the Army Golden Knights, but the Owls looked exceptionally good on the defensive end. Wake Forest managed a 38-35 win over Utah State in Week 1, but it pretty much looked horrible on both sides of the ball, especially defensively where it allowed over 410 yards passing. Rice won’t be lacking for confidence today and I believe the visitors are definitely over-rated considering their form last weekend. Key Trends: - Wake Forest is just 4-6 ATS in its last ten as a favorite. - The Demon Deacons are only 4-6 ATS in their last ten non-conference games. - Rice is 5-2 ATS in its last seven off a cover where the team lost as an underdog. The verdict: For all the reasons listed above, grab as many points as you can! | |||||||
09-02-19 | Notre Dame v. Louisville UNDER 55 | Top | 35-17 | Win | 100 | 35 h 0 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* BLOOD-BATH on the under Notre Dame/Louisville. Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. - Ian Book put up big numbers after taking the reins in Week 4 for the Irish last year and he’s expected to take another big step forward this season. Book’s team this year though looks different from last year’s squad and I think he’ll have some difficulties with chemistry coming out of the gate. The Notre Dame defense also lost many key players, but its top pass rushing duo in Khalid Kareem and Julian Okwara are poised to give Jawon Pass fits for the Cardinals tonight. Pass will obviously be improved from a decent season a year ago, but he’ll be leaning heavily on his other players for support tonight in this difficult matchup. Key Trends: - Notre Dame has seen the total go under in three of its last four as a road favorite in the 17.5 to 21 points range. - Louisville has seen the total go under in six of its last seven non-conference contests. The verdict: Turnover for both teams on both sides of the ball leads to this total staying well below the posted number in Week 1; play the under! | |||||||
09-01-19 | Houston v. Oklahoma UNDER 80 | Top | 31-49 | Push | 0 | 35 h 21 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* TOTAL CASH-BOMB on the under Houston/Oklahoma. Both teams enter the 2019 campaign looking vastly different than they did a year ago. Both have new coaches and each has lost significant talent (Kyler Murray is now the starting QB in Arizona and Ed Oliver has gone to the NFL as well.) The Sooners went out and got defensive guru Alex Grinch to try and bring back some respectability to that side of the ball this season. Houston has D’Eriq King back under center after he suffered a knee injury last year. Oklahoma has a talented QB transfer in Jalen Hurts this season and while he has plenty of weapons around him, I think chemistry will be an issue to start (note as well that Hurts loves running the ball, is big and can take a beating no problem.) Key Trends: - Houston has seen the total go under in six of its last ten on the road. - Oklahoma has seen the total dip under in four of its last six non-conference games. The verdict: I expect these teams to come out a little “flat” to open the game and that “lull” will help in keeping this total under this sky high number; play the under! | |||||||
08-31-19 | Fresno State +13.5 v. USC | Top | 23-31 | Win | 100 | 730 h 35 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* game of the month on Fresno State. Clay Helton managed to keep his head coaching job for the Trojans last year despite finishing just 5-7. It’s a difficult schedule ahead for USC as well, with Stanford coming to town next, then at BYU, Utah, at Washington and at Notre Dame to follow, I believe the home side does in some small way get caught “looking ahead” to its daunting schedule. USC has plenty of offensive talent and great coaches, but it’s inexperience on its offensive line is a clear weakness. And that’s bad news facing this powerful Fresno State defensive front, which isn’t going to concede many yards on the ground and is therefore going to make the Trojans attack extremely one-dimensional. Key Trends: - Fresno State beat UCLA 38-14 last year. - The Bulldog beat Arizona State 31-20 in the Las Vegas Bowl last season. The verdict: USC also has issues in its secondary. I’m expecting a war until the final whistle; grab the points! | |||||||
08-30-19 | Rice v. Army OVER 47.5 | Top | 7-14 | Loss | -125 | 33 h 30 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* total of the month on the over Rice/Army. Every team has “big” expectations coming into a new season and these two are no different. The Army Golden Knights though come in off a historic 2018 campaign, one which was capped by a 70-14 win over Houston in the Armed Forces Bowl (11-2 overall for the Cadets last year.) The Owls will be eager to prove themselves against the up-tempo Knights. Rice finished its season with a 27-13 upset victory over Old Dominion though (just 2-11 overall though.) Rice turns to Wiley Green, who was the QB in the ODU victory and who had 621 passing yards and three TD’s, to go along with 34 rushing yards and two more scores in four appearances last year. The Army offense welcomes back seven starters, including senior QB Kelvin Hopkins Jr. Key Trends: - Rice has seen the total go over in eight of its last nine non-conference games. - Army has seen the total go over in ten of its last 15 as a favorite. The verdict: Rice has to open up the playbook here if it has any shot at pulling off the upset; look for this one to fly over early! | |||||||
08-29-19 | Kent State +26 v. Arizona State | Top | 7-30 | Win | 100 | 733 h 12 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* play on Kent State. Kent State is a train-wreck the last few season and it should once again struggle this year. ASU has to be liking its chances at home after watching Arizona fall on the road in Hawaii in its opener. But the Golden Flashes won’t be going down without a fight. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not calling for an outright upset, but I do think that ASU gets caught looking past its lowly opponent here. The verdict: Kent State returns its entire offensive line, which will benefit QB Woody Barrett. I’m not convinced of this ASU defense, especially all of the new faces up front. Besides, ASU features a new QB in true freshman Jayden Daniels. The Golden Flashes have a golden opportunity here and I’m grabbing the points! | |||||||
08-24-19 | Florida v. Miami-FL OVER 50.5 | Top | 24-20 | Loss | -108 | 730 h 27 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* play on the over Florida/Miami Florida. Key Trends: - It’s interesting to note that UF finished with a 1-3 record last year when it scored less than 20 points, but it was 9-0 when scoring over 20. - Also note that the Hurricanes were 0-5 last year when scoring less than 20 points, while going 7-1 when eclipsing the 20 points plateau. The verdict: Florida was 10-3 last year under Dan Mullen’s first year as head coach and I believe it has a chance to duplicate that record. The home side won’t be going down without a fight though under Miami first year head coach Manny Diaz. When you add it all up, I think this one flies over the number sooner, rather than later! | |||||||
01-07-19 | Alabama v. Clemson UNDER 60 | Top | 16-44 | Push | 0 | 131 h 36 m | Show |
Ricky's 10* play on the under. Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. - Two of the top defensive teams in the country going head to head. Last year Alabama dominated 24-6 and I expect a similar hard-fought, lower-scoring war here as well. Clemson plays with revenge and it’s backed by one of the best defenses in the nation, allowing just 12.9 PPG. The Tide are second in the nation in scoring, but clearly this is Alabama’s stiffest test to date. The Crimson Tide are now slouches defensively either though, ranked among the nation’s leaders in most categories, including being ranked 12th in yards allowed (308.7). Key Trends: - Alabama has seen the total go under the number in four of its last five as a favorite in the 3.5 to ten points range. - Clemson has seen the total go under in 20 of its last 29 following two or more SU victories. The verdict: The recent history between these clubs, combined with their nation leading defensive units make the under the correct move! | |||||||
01-01-19 | Washington +7 v. Ohio State | Top | 23-28 | Win | 100 | 31 h 22 m | Show |
Ricky's 10* play on Washington. Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. - Dominant Huskies secondary. Washington just faced the nation’s No. 1 passing attack in the Apple Cup vs. Washington State and it left with a convincing 28-15 victory, allowing just 152 passing yards (beat Utah 10-3 in the Pac 12 Championship as well.) Ohio State is the second ranked passing attack. Key Trends: - Washington is 4-1 ATS in its last five off a close win by seven points or less vs. a conference rival. - Ohio State is just 5-6 ATS as a favorite this year. - The Buckeyes are just 1-3 ATS in their last four when playing with two weeks or more of rest. The verdict: The Huskies have the veteran leadership at QB to keep pace and a defense to slow down the high-flying Buckeyes. Grab the points. | |||||||
01-01-19 | Iowa v. Mississippi State -7 | Top | 27-22 | Loss | -115 | 26 h 23 m | Show |
Ricky's 10* play on Mississippi State. Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. - Recent history. Mississippi State is playing in its ninth straight bowl game and its 9-2 in its last 11 bowl games overall. Iowa is 15-15-1 all time in bowl games and it’s lost four of its last five. Key Trends: - Iowa is just 1-3-1 ATS in its last five neutral site games. - The Hawkeyes are interestingly only 1-7 TS in their last eight games played on grass. - Mississippi State is 5-0 ATS in its last five non-conference games. - The Bulldogs are 9-4 ATS in their last 13 vs. teams with winning records. The verdict: Mississippi State has the slight edge on both sides of the ball and I’m predicting an double-digit victory today. Lay the points. | |||||||
12-31-18 | Michigan State v. Oregon -2.5 | Top | 6-7 | Loss | -104 | 32 h 34 m | Show |
Ricky's 10* play on Oregon. Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. - No offense for MSU. As good as the Spartans are defensively, I just can’t see them keeping pace with the higher-tempo Ducks down the stretch. MSU got the better of Rutgers 14-10 in its regular season finale to finish 7-5, but the win broke a string of two games where it finished in single digits in scoring and would hit the double-digit mark for just the third time in six games. Oregon on the other hand throttled Oregon State 55-15 in the Civil War, rolling up a whopping 510-366 yardage advantage. Key Trends: - Michigan State is just 2-3 ATS as an underdog this year. - The Spartans are just 1-3 ATS in their last four off a home victory. - Oregon is 4-2 ATS in its last six as a favorite. The verdict: Bank on the Ducks running away with this one (quite literally), as the game winds down. Lay the points. | |||||||
12-31-18 | Virginia Tech v. Cincinnati UNDER 54 | Top | 31-35 | Loss | -115 | 531 h 41 m | Show |
Ricky's 10* play on the under Cinncy/VT. Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. - Long lay off. I think the longer layoff throws a money wrench into the chemistry of each sides offense. The Bearcats got the job done with their elite defense (allowing only 16.1 PPG), which led to their 10-2 record. VT was just 6-6 and while it features some talent, the Hokies are just glad to be here. This one screams “under.” Key Trends: - The Hokies have seen the total go under the number in six of their last eight after scoring 31 points or more in two straight games. - The Bearcats have seen the total dip under in nine of their last 14 as a favorite. - Cincinnati has seen the total go under in its last three when playing with two weeks or more of rest. The verdict: Conditions and numbers point to a lower-scoring under. | |||||||
12-29-18 | Notre Dame v. Clemson -12 | Top | 3-30 | Win | 100 | 30 h 58 m | Show |
Ricky's 10* play on Clemson. Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. - Suspect run defense for the Irish. This is my “key angle” for this game. The Irish ranked 29th in the country in allowing 113.5 YPG, which is the only opportunity this dynamic Tigers offense will need. Clemson RB Travis Etienne has 1,463 rushing yards and 21 TD’s. Key Trends: - Clemson is 6-2 ATS in its last eight following a SU win. - The Tigers are 7-1 ATS in their last eight bowl games. - The Irish are just 2-6 ATS in their last eight neutral site affairs following a three weeks or longer layoff. The verdict: too much QB Trevor Lawrence (2,606 passing yards, 24/4 TD:INT). Too much Etienne. Lay the points. | |||||||
12-29-18 | Florida +7.5 v. Michigan | Top | 41-15 | Win | 100 | 483 h 46 m | Show |
Ricky's 10* play on Florida. Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. - Surging offense. Both teams feature capable offenses and elite defensive units. Florida averaged 34.5 PPG and allowed 20.4, while Michigan averaged 36.8 points and allowed 17.6. But the Gators’ offense was simply on another level down the stretch and I think that momentum gets carried over here and it becomes my “key angle” for this contest (note that Florida posted 46.3 points over its last three games.) Key Trends: - Florida is 4-0 ATS in non-conference games already this year. - Michigan is 1-4 ATS in its last skive after its “bye” week. - The Wolverines are a poor 2-9 ATS in their last 11 after scoring 31 points or more in two straight games. The verdict: I’m going to recommend to “sprinkle” a little on the money line as well. That said, grab the points. | |||||||
12-28-18 | Auburn v. Purdue +3.5 | Top | 63-14 | Loss | -114 | 28 h 47 m | Show |
Ricky's 10* play on Purdue. Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. - “Home Field Advantage.” This is a neutral site game for the Music City Bowl, but the Boilermakers are located just 350 miles from West Lafayette. Purdue has sold out its allotment of tickets heading into this one. Auburn on the other hand got some bad news in that dynamic playmaker Asa Martin is leaving the team, while QB Jarrett Stidham had already previously announced that he’d be forgoing his senior season to enter the draft. The Boilermakers struggled down the stretch defensively, but with three weeks off to prepare, I think Purdue comes to play today. Key Trends: - Auburn is just 2-5 ATS in its last seen neutral site games. - The Tigers are only 2-7-1 ATS in their last ten non-conference games. - Purdue is 7-1 ATS In its last eight non-conference game. - The Boilermakers are 4-1 ATS in their last five neutral site games. The verdict: The stage is set for an upset. That said, grab the points! | |||||||
12-27-18 | Miami-FL v. Wisconsin +3 | Top | 3-35 | Win | 100 | 32 h 56 m | Show |
Ricky's 10* play on Wisconsin. Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. Recent history and inclement weather. Wisconsin beat Miami Florida in the Orange Bowl last year. Note as well that Miami played six road games this year and it lost three of them in “cold” weather (Virginia, Georgia Tech and Boston College.) This one is being played at Yankee Stadium in late December (Pinstripe Bowl). Key Trends: - Miami is just 5-7 ATS as a favorite this year. - Wisconsin is 5-2 ATS in its last seven as an underdog. - The Badgers are 5-2 ATS in their last three off a loss vs. a conference rival. The verdict: This one could come down to the final whistle. Grab the points. | |||||||
12-26-18 | Minnesota +6 v. Georgia Tech | Top | 34-10 | Win | 100 | 33 h 30 m | Show |
Ricky's 10 play on Minnesota. Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. - Momentum. The Golden Gophers needed a epic win over Wisconsin in their regular season finale to move to 6-6 and to bowl eligibility. I expect the Minnesota to carry that momentum over here into this one. Key Trends: - Minnesota is 5-3 ATS as an underdog this year. - The Yellow Jackets are just 3-6 ATS in their last nine as a favorite in the 3.5 to ten points range. The verdict: Georgia Tech’s four game win streak to end the season was snapped with a loss to Georgia in its finale. I think the “hungrier” team keeps this one competitive late. Grab the points. | |||||||
12-22-18 | Louisiana Tech v. Hawaii +1 | Top | 31-14 | Loss | -110 | 34 h 59 m | Show |
Ricky's 10* play on Hawaii. Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. - Momentum and home field advantage. LT comes in off back-to-back losses to Southern Miss and Western Kentucky. Hawaii comes in off back-to-back wins over UNLV and San Diego State. Key Trends: - Louisiana Tech is just 3-6 ATS in its last nine off a loss vs. a conference rival. - Hawaii is 3-1 ATS this year off a win vs. a conference rival. - The Warriors are 3-1 ATS in their last four when playing with two weeks or more of rest. The verdict: I think Hawaii’s offense wins the day over the Bulldogs’ defense. Play on the Warriors. | |||||||
12-22-18 | Wake Forest v. Memphis UNDER 73.5 | Top | 37-34 | Win | 100 | 24 h 30 m | Show |
Ricky's 8* play on the under in the Birmingham Bowl. Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. - Significant injuries to key offensive players for both teams. Wake Forest is likely to be without Greg Dortch, who led the ACC with 1,750 all purpose yards and who had injured his hand in a win over Duke in the reg. season finale (if he does suit up, clearly he won’t be at 100% form.) Memphis will be without RB and All American Darrell Henderson (2,328 all purpose yards and 25 TDs), who is leaving to the NFL. This is my “key angle” for this contest. Key Trends: - Wake has seen the total go under the number in six of its last eight after having won two of its last three - Wake has seen the total go under in four of its last six after allowing 14 points or less in its last game. - Memphis has seen the total go under in three of its last four after allowing 50 points or more in its last game. The verdict: This number is high, play the under. | |||||||
12-21-18 | BYU v. Western Michigan UNDER 51 | Top | 49-18 | Loss | -110 | 29 h 12 m | Show |
Ricky's 10* play on the under. Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. - Above average defenses and backup QB’s. Both teams have their back-ups in here, forced to make switches for different reasons half way through the campaign. BYU allows only 21.7 PPG, while WMU gives up just 33.3. The Broncos though struggled with offensive consistency after starting QB Jon Wassink went down with inury and backup Kaleb Eleby only went 1-3 in his limited time. Key Trends: - BYU has seen the total go under the number in five of seven as a favorite this season. - WMU has seen the total go under the number in its last two neutral site affairs. The verdict: The conditions and trends point to a defensive affair. Play the under. | |||||||
12-20-18 | Marshall -2.5 v. South Florida | Top | 38-20 | Win | 100 | 34 h 40 m | Show |
Ricky's 10* play on Marshall. Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. - Uncertainty at the QB position for the Bulls. Forget the fact that USF lost five straight to end the regular season. The Bulls have plenty of problems on both sides of the ball and I have a hard time seeing them matching pace with this loaded Herd side. But USF is dealing with an injury to starting QB Blake Barnett, who is questionable of this one as well. Backups Brett Kean and Chris Oladokun simply won’t cut it here. Key Trends: - South Florida is just 3-8 ATS in its last 11 following a SU loss of more than 20 points. - Marshall is 8-2-1 ATS in its last 11 after allowing 40 points or more. - The Herd are 21-8-1 ATS in their last 30 non-conference contests. The verdict: Lay the points, because this one has blowout written all over it! | |||||||
12-19-18 | Ohio -2.5 v. San Diego State | Top | 27-0 | Win | 100 | 34 h 40 m | Show |
Ricky's 10* play on Ohio. Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. - SDSU is amazingly 13-0-1 lifetime vs. the MAC, but I think Ohio’s relentless rushing attack will prove to be just too much for SDSU to hold up to. This is a classic battle in the trenches, as the Aztecs’ strength on the defensive side is against the run, ranked fourth in the nation. But SDSU is going to have its hands full with the Bobcats’ AJ Ouellette, who had a career high 196 rushing yards in Ohio’s win over Buffalo in its second to last regular season game. Ouellette is my “key angle” for this contest. Key Trends: - Ohio is 3-1 ATS in its last four neutral site games. - The Bobcats are 3-0 ATS in their last three after scoring 42 points or more in back-to-back games. - SDSU already just 1-3 ATS in non-conference games this year. - The Aztecs are only 3-4 ATS in their last seven off an upset loss as a favorite. The verdict: SDSU is healthier than it’s been in a long time, but Ohio is just too strong on both sides of the ball. Lay the points. | |||||||
12-18-18 | Northern Illinois v. UAB -2.5 | Top | 13-37 | Win | 100 | 32 h 24 m | Show |
Ricky's 10* play on UAB. Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. - Better offense. Both teams are very adept defensively. Although UAB’s defensive unit is slightly better (the Blazers allowed 17.3 PPG and the Huskies allowed 21.5), the Blazers are significantly better on the offensive side, averaging 29.3 PPG, compared to NIU’s 20.7. Key Trends: - The Blazers are 8-3 ATS in their last 11 vs. teams with winning records. - NIU is 0-5 ATS in its last five bowl games. - The Huskies are just 5-16-1 ATS in their last 22 neutral site affairs. The verdict: This one has blowout written all over it. Lay the points and expect a rout. | |||||||
12-15-18 | Arizona State +5 v. Fresno State | Top | 20-31 | Loss | -110 | 71 h 33 m | Show |
Ricky's 10* play on Arizona State. Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. - Manny Wilkins. The ASU QB is 4-1 SU this year in games decided by no more than three points. The oddsmakers believe this is going to pretty much be a “nail biter” as evidenced by this spread. I’m banking on the senior pivot once again performing under pressure and I look for him to keep this team in this one late. Key Trends: - ASU is already 3-0 ATS this year as an underdog in the 3.5 to ten points range. - The Sun Devils are 4-1 ATS in their last five off a close win by seven points or less over a conference rival. - Fresno State is 0-3 ATS in its last three as a neutral field favorite of seven points or less. The verdict: This one has competitive battle written all over it. Grab the points. | |||||||
12-08-18 | Navy v. Army UNDER 40 | Top | 10-17 | Win | 100 | 29 h 21 m | Show |
Ricky's 10* play on the under. Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. - Recent history. These two teams like to the run the ball. Almost every game they’ve played over the last ten years has been competitive (was a 14-13 Army win last year). Navy’s stumbled this year, while Army is on the verge of posting back-to-back ten-win seasons. Look for this trend of low-scoring “chess matches” to continue on Saturday afternoon. Key Trends: - Navy has seen the total go under the number in seven of its last ten as an underdog in the 3.5 to ten points range. - The Midshipmen have seen the total go under the number in eight of their last 11 off a road loss (including in four of five this year). - Army has seen the total go under in four of its last five when playing with two or more weeks of rest. The verdict: Play the under. | |||||||
12-01-18 | Northwestern v. Ohio State UNDER 59.5 | Top | 24-45 | Loss | -110 | 136 h 43 m | Show |
Ricky's 10* play on the under in the BIG TEN Champ game. Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. - Defesne, defense, defense! That’s my key angle for this game. The Wildcats allow 134.7 rushing YPG and 238 passing yards, while Ohio State’s only weakness has been against the run, allowing 161.9 YPG. The pass defense of the Buckeyes is on point though, which doesn’t look good for a Northwestern team averaging a pedestrian 351.1 YPG. Key Trends: - Northwestern has seen the total go under in nine of its last 14 as an underdog. - The Wildcats have seen the total go under in its last two neutral site games. - The Buckeyes have seen the total go under in their last three as a neutral field favorite. The verdict: Play the under. | |||||||
12-01-18 | Clemson v. Pittsburgh +25.5 | Top | 42-10 | Loss | -110 | 134 h 28 m | Show |
Ricky's 10* play on Pittsburgh. Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. - The Tigers play well at home, but two of their last three games have been decided by 21 points or less and they looked less than spectacular vs. South Carolina last weekend, allowing 510 yards through the air. Key Trends: - The Panthers are 5-3 ATS in their last eight as an underdog. - Pittsburgh is 15-6 ATS in its last 21 vs. the conference. - The Panthers are already 3-0 ATS This year after scoring 14 points or less in their previous game. - The Tigers are already 0-3 ATS this season as a favorite in the 21.5 to 31 points range (and 2-6 ATS long-term.) The verdict: Grab the points. | |||||||
11-30-18 | Utah v. Washington -4.5 | Top | 3-10 | Win | 100 | 112 h 3 m | Show |
Ricky's 10* play on Washington. Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. - Utah doesn’t have either its starting RB or QB playing in this one. - The Huskies have dominated this series, going 11-1 in the last 12, with three straight wins including a 21-7 road victory back on September 15th. Key Trends: - Utah is just 2-3 ATS after two or more SU wins this year. - Washington is still 5-2 ATS in its last seven as a favorite in the 3.5 to ten points range. The verdict: Look for Jake Browning to end his Pac-12 career with one more big victory. Lay the points. | |||||||
11-30-18 | Northern Illinois v. Buffalo -3.5 | Top | 30-29 | Loss | -110 | 111 h 44 m | Show |
Ricky's 10* play on Buffalo. Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. - Buffalo plays with revenge after falling 14-13 in this game last year. The Huskies come in with zero momentum with two straight losses. Key Trends: - Northern Illinois is just 2-3 ATS in its last five after two or more SU losses. - Buffalo is 5-1 ATS off a win vs. a conference rival. - The Bulls are 5-1 ATS in their last six as a favorite in the 3.5 to ten points range. The verdict: Lay the points. | |||||||
11-24-18 | Utah State v. Boise State -2.5 | Top | 24-33 | Win | 100 | 62 h 34 m | Show |
Ricky's 10* play on Boise State. Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. - With a win today Boise State can win the Mountain West conference. Utah State’s strength of schedule is called into question here and the home field advantage factor turns into my “key” angle for this matchup. Key Trends: - Utah State is just 3-7 ATS in its last ten vs. teams with winning records. - Boise State is 4-2 ATS in its last six at home. - The Broncos are 7-4 ATS in their last 11 off a win vs. a conference rival. The verdict: Lay the points. | |||||||
11-23-18 | Oklahoma -2.5 v. West Virginia | Top | 59-56 | Win | 100 | 57 h 6 m | Show |
Ricky's 10* play on Oklahoma. Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. - The Sooners will be playing in the Big 12 Championship game regardless of the outcome of this contest, but clearly Oklahoma still has bigger plans in mind sitting at 10-1. WVU needs to win this and have Texas lose (not likely) to be invited to the Championship game. I believe the visitors can smell the blood in the water and I expect them to keep the foot on the gas. Key Trends: - Oklahoma is 5-2 ATS in its last seven as a favorite in the 3.5 to ten points range. - The Mountaineers are 0-4 ATS in their last four as an underdog in the 3.5 to ten points range. The verdict: I simply can’t see Oklahoma faltering again at this point. Lay the points. | |||||||
11-23-18 | Nebraska +10 v. Iowa | Top | 28-31 | Win | 100 | 49 h 8 m | Show |
Ricky's 10* play on Nebraska. Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. Nebraska comes in on top form, with quality wins over Illinois and Michigan State. A great “situational” angle here, as clearly the Huskers are playing for pride with no chance at a bowl. Iowa on the other hand is 7-4 and win or lose, it’s not going to affect its standings. Key Trends: - Nebraska is already 3-0 ATS this season against clubs with winning records - The Huskers are 10-4 ATS in their last 14 on the road. - Iowa is just 2-3 ATS in its last five vs. teams with losing records. The verdict: The Hawkeyes get caught looking past their lowly opponent, leaving the back door open. Grab the points. | |||||||
11-22-18 | Colorado State v. Air Force -14 | Top | 19-27 | Loss | -110 | 73 h 38 m | Show |
Ricky's 10* play on Air Force. Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. - Senior night. The Falcons won’t be playing in a bowl, but after last week’s collapse against Wyoming, I’m expecting the home side to take out its frustrations on the lowly Rams with a big effort on both sides of the ball. Key Trends: - Colorado State is already 1-3 ATS this year off a loss against a conference rival. - Air Force is already 2-0 ATS this year as a favorite in the 10.5 to 21 points range. - The Falcons are 3-1 ATS at home this season. The verdict: Lay the points. | |||||||
11-20-18 | Northern Illinois -5.5 v. Western Michigan | Top | 21-28 | Loss | -108 | 29 h 57 m | Show |
Ricky's 10* play on NIU. Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. - NIU has already captured the MAC West Title, so last week’s loss to a desperate Miami Ohio team does nothing to its ranking. However, clearly the Huskies will be looking to end the regular season on a winning note before the Champ. game. Key Trends: - The Huskies are already 3-1 ATS this year vs. teams with winning records. - WMU is only 1-6 ATS this season against conference opponents. - The Broncos are already 0-2 ATS this year as an underdog in the 3.5 to ten points range. The verdict: WMU is already bowl eligible and it has nothing to play for here. The Broncos lost their “mojo” after starting QB Jon Wassink was lost for the season last month. Look for the Huskies to take advantage. | |||||||
11-17-18 | Virginia v. Georgia Tech -5 | Top | 27-30 | Loss | -105 | 31 h 53 m | Show |
Ricky's 10* play on Georgia Tech. Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. In today's game there is no doubt that the history between these two teams is particularly significant. Key Trends: - Virginia is just 10-12 ATS in its last 22 vs. the conference. - Georgia Tech is 10-5 ATS in its last 15 vs. teams with winning records. - The Yellow Jackets are 10-7 ATS in their last 17 at home. The verdict: Home field turns out to be the difference here. Lay the points. | |||||||
11-17-18 | Pittsburgh -6.5 v. Wake Forest | Top | 34-13 | Win | 100 | 28 h 40 m | Show |
Ricky's 10* play on Pittsburgh. Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. In today's game there is no doubt that the history between these two teams is particularly significant. Key Trends: - Pittsburgh is 7-4 ATS in its last 11 off a win against a conference rival (including 3-1 ATS this year) - The Panthers are already 5-1 ATS against the conference this season. - Wake Forest is already 0-3 ATS this year as an underdog in the 3.5 to ten points range. The verdict: Wake is still without QB Sam Hartman and I have a hard time seeing the home side keeping pace with the high-flying Panthers. Lay the points. | |||||||
11-16-18 | Memphis v. SMU +8.5 | Top | 28-18 | Loss | -107 | 107 h 0 m | Show |
Ricky's 10* play on SMU. Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. In today's game there is no doubt that the history between these two teams is particularly significant. Key Trends: - Memphis is just 1-5 ATS in its last six as a favorite in the 3.5 to ten points range and just 6-7 ATS in its last 13 after two or more consecutive SU wins. -SMU is already 3-0 ATS this year as an underdog in the 3.5 to ten points range. - The Mustangs are 10-6 ATS in their last 16 at home. The verdict: SMU has won two straight and needs one more victory to become eligible. The Tigers are injured and they just punched their ticket to bowl eligibility last weekend. The favorite is primed for an outright upset here. That said, grab the points. | |||||||
11-15-18 | Tulane +10.5 v. Houston | Top | 17-48 | Loss | -108 | 82 h 16 m | Show |
Ricky's 10* play on Tulane. Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. In today's game there is no doubt that the history between these two teams is particularly significant. Key Trends: - Tulane is 3-1 ATS in its last four as a road dog in the 7.5 to ten points range. - Houston is only 2-5 ATS in its last seven off a loss against a conference rival and only 9-13 ATS in its last 22 against the conference. The verdict: Tulane comes in off a nice win and is only allowing 22 PPG this year. Grab the points. | |||||||
11-14-18 | Miami-OH v. Northern Illinois -6 | Top | 13-7 | Loss | -111 | 59 h 32 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* play on Northern Illinois Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. In today's game there is no doubt that the history between these two teams is particularly significant. Key Trends: - Note that Northern Illinois is 6-3 ATS in its last nine against teams with losing records. - The home team is 6-3 ATS in the last nine in this series. - The Huskies are already 3-1 ATS this season after two or more SU wins. The verdict: Take NIU. | |||||||
11-13-18 | Western Michigan v. Ball State OVER 53 | Top | 41-42 | Win | 100 | 25 h 51 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* play on the over WMU/Ball State. Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. In today's game there is no doubt that the history between these two teams is particularly significant. Key Trends: - As note that WMU has seen the total go over in its last two Tuesday night contests - Note that the Broncos have also seen the total go over in five of eight as a favorite in the 3.5 to ten points range. - Additionally note that Ball State has seen the total eclipse the posted number in 10 of its last 16 at home. The verdict: Even without their starting QB’s, I’m expecting a more “up-tempo” pace. Play the over. | |||||||
11-10-18 | Oregon +3.5 v. Utah | Top | 25-32 | Loss | -103 | 92 h 24 m | Show |
Ricky's 8* play on the Ducks: Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. In today's game there is no doubt that the history between these two teams is particularly significant. Key Trends: - The Ducks are 11-5 ATS in their last 16 games in November. - The Utes are 1-4 ATS in their last 5 home games versus teams with a winning road record. - The Underdog is 4-1 ATS in their last 5 meetings. Verdict: Take Oregon | |||||||
11-03-18 | Alabama v. LSU +14.5 | Top | 29-0 | Loss | -106 | 73 h 30 m | Show |
Ricky's 10* play on the Tigers: Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. In today's game there is no doubt that the history between these two teams is particularly significant. Home field has been a big deal for LSU, and the Tigers have covered the spread in seven of their last 10 in Baton Rouge. Key Trends: - The Tigers are 5-0 ATS in their last 5 games in November. - The Tigers are 10-1 ATS in their last 11 conference games. - The Crimson Tide are 1-5 ATS in their last 6 games in November. Verdict: Take LSU | |||||||
11-03-18 | Penn State +10.5 v. Michigan | Top | 7-42 | Loss | -106 | 68 h 1 m | Show |
Ricky's 10* play on the Nittany Lions: Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. In today's game there is no doubt that the history between these two teams is particularly significant. Key Trends: - The Nittany Lions are 9-3 ATS in their last 12 road games. - The Wolverines are 0-6 ATS in their last 6 games following a bye week. - The Nittany Lions are 16-6-1 ATS in their last 23 conference games. Verdict: Take Penn State | |||||||
10-27-18 | Georgia v. Florida UNDER 52 | Top | 36-17 | Loss | -110 | 90 h 35 m | Show |
Ricky's 10* play on the Under 52.5: Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. In today's game there is no doubt that the history between these two teams is particularly significant. Key Trends: - The Under is 5-2 in the last 7 meetings. - The Under is 4-1 in the last 5 meetings in Georgia. - The listed total was under 50 in each of the last seven meetings. Verdict: Take Under | |||||||
10-20-18 | Oregon v. Washington State +2 | Top | 20-34 | Win | 100 | 130 h 57 m | Show |
Ricky's 10* GOY play on the Cougars: Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. In today's game there is no doubt that the home field advantage particularly significant. Additionally, this appears to be a classic let down spot for the Ducks coming off a lucky win over Washington due to a missed FG by the Huskies. The Cougars also come off a bye week, giving them more time to rest and draw up a game plan. Key Trends: - The Cougars are 6-0 ATS in their last 6 games overall. - The Cougars are 8-0 ATS in their last 8 home games. - The Cougars are 5-1 ATS in their last 6 conference games. Verdict: Take Wazzu | |||||||
10-20-18 | Michigan -7 v. Michigan State | Top | 21-7 | Win | 100 | 23 h 25 m | Show |
Ricky's 10* play on the Wolverines: Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. In today's game there is no doubt that the home team's struggles defensively are particularly significant. - The Wolverines are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 conference games - The Spartans are 1-4 ATS in their last 5 home games. - The Spartans are 1-4 ATS in their last 5 games following a ATS win. Verdict: Take Michigan | |||||||
10-13-18 | Wisconsin +9 v. Michigan | Top | 13-38 | Loss | -110 | 69 h 7 m | Show |
Ricky's 10* play on the Badgers: Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. In today's game there is no doubt that the history between these teams is particularly significant. Key Trends: - The Badgers are 13-3 ATS in their last 16 road games. - The Wolverines are 1-5-1 ATS in their last 7 games in October. - The Badgers are 9-1-1 ATS in their last 11 meetings. Verdict: Take Wisconsin | |||||||
10-06-18 | Arizona State v. Colorado UNDER 64.5 | Top | 21-28 | Win | 100 | 7 h 1 m | Show |
Ricky's 10* play on the Under: Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. In today's game there is no doubt that the cold weather in Colorado is particularly significant. Key Trends: - The Under is 4-1 in the Buffaloes last 5 games overall. - The Under is 8-3 in the Buffaloes last 11 games following a straight up win. - The Under is 7-2 in the Buffaloes last 9 versus teams with a winning record. Verdict: Take Under | |||||||
09-29-18 | South Carolina v. Kentucky -1 | Top | 10-24 | Win | 100 | 103 h 51 m | Show |
Ricky's 10* play on the Under: Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. In today's game there is no doubt that the Wildcats defense is particularly significant. Key Trends: - The Gamecocks are 1-3-1 ATS in their last 5 games following a straight up win. - The Gamecocks are 0-5 ATS in their last 5 meetings. - The Gamecocks are 1-3-2 ATS in their last 6 games after allowing less than 20 points in their previous game. Verdict: Take UK | |||||||
09-29-18 | Virginia Tech v. Duke UNDER 51.5 | Top | 31-14 | Win | 100 | 6 h 10 m | Show |
Ricky's 10* play on the Under: Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. In today's game there is no doubt that the Duke defense is particularly significant. Key Trends: - The Under is 7-1 in the Hokies last 8 versus teams with a winning record. - The Under is 9-4 in the Hokies last 13 games overall. - The Under is 36-17 in the Hokies last 53 conference games Verdict: Take Under | |||||||
09-22-18 | Stanford -130 v. Oregon | Top | 38-31 | Win | 100 | 31 h 14 m | Show |
Ricky's 10* play on the Stanford Cardinal: Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. In today's game there is no doubt that the history between these teams is particularly significant. Key Trends: - The Cardinal are 5-1 ATS in their last 6 games overall. - The Ducks are 0-4 ATS in their last 4 home games. - The Ducks are 6-13 ATS in their last 19 conference games. Verdict: Take Stanford | |||||||
09-15-18 | USC v. Texas -160 | Top | 14-37 | Win | 100 | 61 h 4 m | Show |
Ricky's 10* play on the Longhorns: Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. In today's game there is no doubt that the history between these teams is particularly significant. Key Trends: - The Trojans are 0-6 ATS in their last 6 non-conference games. - The Trojans are 3-13-1 ATS in their last 17 games overall. - The Longhorns are 6-2 ATS in their last 8 versus the Pac-12. Verdict: Take Texas | |||||||
09-08-18 | Rice v. Hawaii -17 | Top | 29-43 | Loss | -107 | 83 h 12 m | Show |
Ricky's 10* play on the Rainbow Warriors: Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. In today's game there is no doubt that the run and shoot offense is particularly significant. Hawaii has scored 102 points in two games so far. Key Trends: - Cole McDonald is the nation's leading passer with 846 yards after two games. - Owls are 1-5 ATS in their last 6 non-conference games. - Owls are 3-7 ATS in their last 10 games in September. Verdict: Take Hawaii | |||||||
09-03-18 | Virginia Tech v. Florida State -7 | Top | 24-3 | Loss | -100 | 11 h 18 m | Show |
Ricky's 10* play on the Seminoles: Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. In today's game there is no doubt that the home field advantage in Tallahassee is particularly significant. Key Trends: - The Hokies are 1-4 ATS in their last 5 road games. - The Hokies are 1-4 ATS in their last 5 games overall. - The Seminoles are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games overall. Verdict: Take FSU | |||||||
08-30-18 | Northwestern +2 v. Purdue | Top | 31-27 | Win | 100 | 13 h 51 m | Show |
Ricky's 10* play on the Northwestern Wildcats. Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. In today's game there is no doubt that the loss of so many starters on defense for Purdue is particularly significant. Key Trends: - The Wildcats return 14 starters from last year's team that went 10-3. - The Wildcats are 7-1 ATS in their last eight overall. - The Wildcats are 4-0 straight up in their last four versus Purdue. Verdict: Take NW | |||||||
01-08-18 | Alabama -3.5 v. Georgia | Top | 26-23 | Loss | -105 | 123 h 0 m | Show |
Nick Chubb and Sony Michel ripped the Oklahoma defense to pieces with big runs countering the Sooners’ incredible offense inflicted upon them for most of the game. Can the Dawgs get the run game cooking against the brick wall that is the Alabama defense? I think it will be tough sleding. Bama is now ranked an amazing 1-1-1-1 in terms of total defense, rushing defense, pass efficiency defense and scoring defense. Ridiculous. They played like their hair was on fire last week vs Clemson but face a new challenge this week in the form of two future NFL RB's. Maybe more if you include their depth. QB Jake Fromm has been truly special as a true freshman playing big time football in their biggest games. Fromm has an excellent 23-5 TD to INT ratio and can make all the throws. The good news is that Fromm does not provide much (if any) threat running the football and they do not have to account for a running QB. You can argue that Clemson needed to take some additional deep shots vs Bama, but it was clear early on that the pressure inflicted by the pass rush was going to make that very difficult. The Alabama offense is not pretty, yet somehow they are ranked #27 in the FBS in total offense and #10 running the football. The passing game is not sexy, but they have one of the best WR's in college football (Calvin Ridley – 59, 935 4 TD) and Jalen Hurts has only thrown one INT all season. ROLL TIDE is ranked #8 in passing efficiency. Hurts can also hurt you with his mobility and provides excellent balance with the 1-2 RB punch of D Harris and B Scarbrough. Those three men have bagged 27 rushing TD's so far this season. It is going to be tough sledding vs the tough GA defense (#31 FBS, #8 vs run) and do not be alarmed by the performance vs Oklahoma. The Sooners had a devastating offense and Bama provides a much more conventional attack that they can handle. It should be noted that Bama has the experience edge playing in more big games and Saban has won 5 of these Championships. They also have: 1) insane defense 2) mobility at QB 3) better spot for Alabama (GA – off 2-OT, travel). I'd give Bama a slight edge in terms of probability of creating disruptive and big plays on defense. Alabama -3.5 | |||||||
01-01-18 | Alabama v. Clemson +3 | Top | 24-6 | Loss | -100 | 11 h 4 m | Show |
Roll Tide has the #8 rushing offense in the FBS and are going to do their best to hammer the Clemson defense into submission. The Harris/Bo combo has tallied 1400+ yards rushing, and when you include the mobility of Hurts (768, 8 TD), Bama's running game is a real force and will be the key to the game for the offense. They are a bit limited in the passing game with only one proven weapon (Calvin Ridley 896, 3 TD) and will have to find a way to make the ground game work so that the Clemson offense stays off the field. QB Jalen Hurts is a proven winner and very smart with the football (15-1 TD to INT), but he must hit some big plays in the passing game for them to win this game. Clemson brings the #2 scoring defense and #6 total defense into this epic trilogy match-up. The defense does it all. #3 in the FBS in sacks per game. #6 in TFL. Great vs the run and the pass. 5th in the FBS on 3rd downs. Clemson has allowed 3.12 yards per carry and just 5 rushing TD's all season long. Compare that to previous years as such 2016: 3.70 and 20; 2015: 3.54 and 18. It seems that the Tigers are well positioned for this game. The Tigers have a very balanced offense and rank #30 in the FBS overall. QB Kelly Bryant had an excellent first season completing 67% of his passes with 13 TD's and only 6 INT's (362 attempts). He has also rushed for 646 yards and 11 TD's in his spare time. RB's T Feaster and T Etienne combined for 1,400 yards and 20 TD's. The passing game is very diverse with reliable Deon Cain leading the team with 659 yards receiving. They lack the #1 devastating force a la Mike Williams last season, but they are just as hard to defend this year with plenty of options. Clemson +3 | |||||||
01-01-18 | Central Florida v. Auburn -9.5 | Top | 34-27 | Loss | -109 | 113 h 12 m | Show |
If Auburn runs their offense and doesn’t cough it up with turnovers it seems likely they get well into the 40's. Auburn had the #25 offense in the FBS and were #22 rushing. The passing attack did not pick up tons of yards, but they were very efficient (#10 FBS) with QB J Stidham throwing 17 TD's and just 4 INT's at 8.6 yards per attempt. Sure, there is a lot of short stuff, but they can bomb away once the run gets established. WR Ryan Davis grabbed 76 passes and WR Darius Slayton averaged 24 yards per grab. RB Kerryon Johnson had eight 100-yard rushing games. He was banged up near the end of the season and still almost led them to an SEC title. He is good to go for this game. Just to give you a frame of reference for how impressive the Auburn offense was – they played 6 games against top 12 defenses. Alabama, Georgia x 2, Clemson, Mississippi St and LSU. The Knights finished up the regular season with a perfect 12-0 record. The issue however isn't their offense, it's the defense. They were #93 ranked defense. They are ranked #81 in yards per play defense and #77 on 3rd downs. They do not get adequate D-Line push (#92 sacks per game; #79 TFL per game) and should not provide much resistance to Auburn if the Tigers play up to expectations. Note: their starting LT is out. Auburn is by far the sternest test of the season. Auburn has the #13 defense in the FBS and they are sound vs the run and the pass. They are also #3 in the SEC in sacks per game and can get to the quarter back with only four guys. They are excellent on 3rd downs (#18 FBS). The Tigers should be able to limit long drives and just need to limit the number of big plays. This feels like a game Auburn should win quite easily. Their offense has potential to explode and the defense will get enough stops. I am going to roll with the team that happened to beat Georgia and Alabama. Auburn -9.5 | |||||||
12-30-17 | Washington v. Penn State -1.5 | Top | 28-35 | Win | 100 | 5 h 1 m | Show |
Penn State have a really balanced attack and will face a stern challenge on Saturday. They boast two of the best players in college football in QB Trace McSorley (3,228, 26-8 TD to INT; 11 rushing TDs) and RB Saquon Barkley (1,134 rushing yards, 16 TD; 47 receptions). They also have a solid WR group and deadly receiving TE in Mike Gesicki (9 TDs). Four players have 500+ receiving yards. The big issue has been the offensive line. They were dead LAST in the Big 10 in TFL allowed per game and Barkley was really bottled up when facing elite defenses. Washington may fall into that category as they are the #1 run defense in the FBS and #5 defense overall. The Huskies can bring pressure (38 sacks) and Penn St will have to establish the run and stay out of 3rd and long. An offense with all kinds of weapons and Mayfield Jr at QB going up against a rock solid stop unit. The Huskies are not as deep on offense, but they still have the necessary trio to make things work. QB Jake Browning is smart and accurate (69% completions; 5 INT), Myles Gaskin is a true #1 RB (1,282 rushing yards, 19 TD) and Dante Pettis had over 700 yards receiving. Penn St also boasts a solid defense (#7 scoring FBS) that can get after the QB (38 sacks) and make stops on 3rd downs. A huge key to this game is the ability of Washington to run the football on the #15 rushing defense. Penn St has the ability to make things work in the passing game if the run game is not working. The Huskies will need Gaskin to keep the chains moving and give Browning time to hit plays downfield. It was a tough loss in the Rose Bowl last season for Penn. They should be jacked up to win on a big stage against a 10-win team. Barkley decided to play in this game and that has to give the troops a boost. I am going to roll with the team that faced three really good defenses (Ohio St, Michigan, Sparty) and managed to score 38,24 and 41 points). I prefer the variety of weapons on the Penn St side and the mobility at QB. I am also skeptical of the schedule that Washington faced and are particularly concerned given the way the PAC 12 has crapped the bed in bowl games so far (UCLA, Stanford, Arizona, Arizona St, Oregon, Washington St). The Big 10 has looked good so far (Purdue, Sparty, Iowa, Northwestern. Penn St just needs to avoid a lot of negative plays to win this game by 7+. Penn State -1.5 | |||||||
12-28-17 | Michigan State +2.5 v. Washington State | Top | 42-17 | Win | 100 | 240 h 15 m | Show |
The Cougers will be without their top-2 WR for this game as both have left the team. They have depth in the group, but it probably cannot be a good thing to be without your two most productive receivers (combined for 14/35 of teams TD receptions). The running game is pretty much non-existent (#128 FBS) and they were also dead last in the PAC 12 in sacks per game allowed. Falk is a fine QB, but has the mobility of a glacier. They have to get the ball out quick to their talented guys and let the big plays happen. Michigan St’s defense is very good (#9 FBS, #5 vs run, #13 pass efficiency defense). The Michigan St run D has been really good against all, but elite rushing teams and it feels as though Washington St will need a premium day from Falk to win this affair. QB Brian Lewerke can play and he has an underrated group of WR's with which to work with. He also has some good mobility (#2 team in rushing; 5 rushing TD's) which is handy for keeping drives alive. Lewerke makes mistakes and has issues with accuracy sometimes, but he is more than capable of having a good game against a tough defense. The running game has been a bit of a disappointment, but LJ Scott can do some damage if he gets going early in the contest. Washington St was very good against the pass and decent enough vs the run this year although they did allow 23 rushing TDs. The Spartans should be able to have a balanced attack. Sparty has to figure out a way to consistently win 1st and 2nd down. It will help that Cougers’ star DL Mata’afa is suspended for the first half due to a targeting violation. Both defenses are good enough to win games by themselves, but I prefer the balance on the offensive side of the ball for Michigan St. I also give the edge in the Head Coach department to Dantonio. He is even better when playing the underdog card. Michigan State +2.5 |
Service | Profit |
---|---|
Ricky Tran | $756 |
ProSportsPicks | $632 |
Joseph D'Amico | $510 |
Joey Tron | $450 |
Tom Macrina | $399 |
Nick Parsons | $344 |
Sean Murphy | $306 |
Jack Jones | $303 |
William Burns | $233 |
Dan Kaiser | $220 |