Gameday News and Notes

New York Jets vs. Seattle Seahawks

Oddsmakers currently have the Jets listed as 4-point favorites versus the Seahawks, while the game's total is sitting at 42.

The Jets defeated Buffalo 31-27 as an 8-point favorite last week. The combined score went OVER the posted over/under total (41).

Thomas Jones rushed for 78 yards and a touchdown on 20 carries for the Jets, while Brett Favre passed for 207 yards with a touchdown and two interceptions in the win.

The Seahawks defeated St. Louis 23-20 as a 1.5-point favorite last week. The combined score caused this game to be a PUSH on the posted over/under total (43).

T.J. Duckett scored the Seahawks lone offensive touchdown while rushing for four yards on three carries, while Seneca Wallace passed for 226 yards with no touchdowns and no interceptions in the win.

Team records:
New York: 9-5 SU, 7-7 ATS
Seattle: 3-11 SU, 6-7-1 ATS

New York most recently:
When playing in December are 6-4
When playing on turf are 8-2
After outgaining opponent are 5-5
When playing outside the division are 6-4

Seattle most recently:
When playing in December are 5-5
When playing on turf are 2-8
After being outgained are 2-8
When playing outside the division are 0-10

A few trends to consider:
NY Jets are 5-0 SU in their last 5 games when playing Seattle
The total has gone OVER in 5 of the NY Jets last 6 games
NY Jets are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games when playing Seattle
NY Jets are 6-2 SU in their last 8 games
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Seattle's last 5 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Seattle's last 7 games
Seattle is 1-3-1 ATS in its last 5 games at home
Seattle is 1-4 ATS in their last 5 games when playing NY Jets

Next up:
NY Jets home to Miami, Sunday, December 28
Seattle at Arizona, Sunday, December 28

Philadelphia Eagles vs. Washington Redskins

Oddsmakers currently have the Eagles listed as 5½-point favorites versus the Redskins, while the game's total is sitting at 37.

Donovan McNabb threw for two touchdowns and Philadelphia had little trouble handing Cleveland a 30-10 loss in Week 15.

The Eagles covered the 16-point spread, while the final score was a push against the posted total.

The Redskins lost to Cincinnati 20-13 as a 6.5-point favorite last week. The combined score fell UNDER the posted over/under total (36.5).

Jason Campbell passed for 167 yards with a touchdown for Washington and Santana Moss hauled in seven passes for 72 yards with a TD.

Current streak:
Philadelphia has won 3 straight games.
Washington has lost 3 straight games.

Team records:
Philadelphia: 8-5-1 SU, 9-5 ATS
Washington: 7-7 SU, 5-8-1 ATS

Philadelphia most recently:
When playing in December are 8-2
When playing on grass are 7-3
After outgaining opponent are 5-5
When playing within the division are 3-7

Washington most recently:
When playing in December are 5-5
When playing on grass are 6-4
After being outgained are 5-5
When playing within the division are 4-6

A few trends to consider:
Philadelphia is 7-1 SU in its last 8 games when playing on the road against Washington
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Philadelphia's last 7 games when playing on the road against Washington
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Philadelphia's last 5 games when playing Washington
Philadelphia is 10-3 ATS in its last 13 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Washington's last 5 games
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Washington's last 5 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Washington's last 7 games when playing at home against Philadelphia
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Washington's last 5 games when playing Philadelphia

Next up:
Philadelphia home to Dallas, Sunday, December 28
Washington at San Francisco, Sunday, December 28

Atlanta Falcons vs. Minnesota Vikings

Oddsmakers currently have the Vikings listed as 3-point favorites versus the Falcons, while the game's total is sitting at 43½.

The Falcons defeated Tampa Bay 13-10 in overtime as a 5.5-point favorite last week. The combined score fell UNDER the posted over/under total (43.5).

Michael Turner rushed for 152 yards and a touchdown on 32 carries for Atlanta and Matt Ryan passed for 206 yards with a pair of interceptions.

The Vikings upset Arizona 35-14 as a 4.5-point underdog last week. The combined score went OVER the posted over/under total (46.5).

Tavaris Jackson passed for 163 yards with four touchdown passes for Minnesota, while Adrian Peterson rushed for 164 yards on 28 carries.

Current streak:
Minnesota has won 4 straight games.

Team records:
Atlanta: 9-5 SU, 8-6 ATS
Minnesota: 9-5 SU, 6-8 ATS

Atlanta most recently:
When playing in December are 2-8
When playing on turf are 7-3
After outgaining opponent are 4-6
When playing outside the division are 7-3

Minnesota most recently:
When playing in December are 5-5
When playing on turf are 8-2
After outgaining opponent are 6-4
When playing outside the division are 5-5

A few trends to consider:
The total has gone UNDER in 15 of Atlanta's last 20 games on the road
Atlanta is 5-2 SU in its last 7 games
Atlanta is 4-2 ATS in its last 6 games when playing Minnesota
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Atlanta's last 9 games
Minnesota is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games at home
Minnesota is 6-1 SU in its last 7 games
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Minnesota's last 8 games
Minnesota is 6-2 SU in its last 8 games when playing at home against Atlanta

Next up:
Atlanta home to St. Louis, Sunday, December 28
Minnesota home to NY Giants, Sunday, December 28

Carolina Panthers vs. New York Giants

Oddsmakers currently have the Giants listed as 3-point favorites versus the Panthers, while the game's total is sitting at 37.

The Panthers defeated Denver 30-10 as a 7-point favorite last week. The combined score fell UNDER the posted over/under total (47.5).

Jake Delhomme passed for 253 yards with a touchdown and an interception for Carolina, while Steve Smith caught nine passes for 165 yards with a touchdown in the win.

The Giants lost to Dallas 20-8 as a 3-point underdog last week. The combined score fell UNDER the posted over/under total (46.5).

Eli Manning threw for 191 yards with two interceptions for the Giants and Derrick Ward rushed for 64 yards on 14 carries.

Current streak:
Carolina has won 3 straight games.
New York has lost 2 straight games.

Team records:
Carolina: 11-3 SU, 8-5-1 ATS
New York: 11-3 SU, 10-4 ATS

Carolina most recently:
When playing in December are 7-3
When playing on turf are 6-4
After outgaining opponent are 4-6
When playing outside the division are 8-2

New York most recently:
When playing in December are 4-6
When playing on turf are 8-2
After being outgained are 7-3
When playing outside the division are 9-1

A few trends to consider:
Carolina is 7-1 SU in its last 8 games
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Carolina's last 5 games
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Carolina's last 9 games on the road
Carolina is 4-2 ATS in its last 6 games
NY Giants are 6-1 SU in their last 7 games at home
NY Giants are 15-3 SU in their last 18 games
NY Giants are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games at home
NY Giants are 16-4 ATS in their last 20 games

Next up:
Carolina at New Orleans, Sunday, December 28
NY Giants at Minnesota, Sunday, December 28

New Orleans Bowl: Troy vs. Southern Miss

- Sun Belt champion Troy opened as small favorites to beat the Southern Miss Golden Eagles December 21 when they battle at the Louisiana Superdome in the New Orleans Bowl.

Troy will be trying for its second bowl win in three years when it plays a 'home' game in the Big Easy against the Conference USA's Eagles.

Oddsmakers currently have the Trojans listed as 4½-point favorites versus the Golden Eagles, while the game's total is sitting at 54½.

Troy earned a bowl berth with a 35-9 win over Arkansas State in their regular-season finale.

Troy covered the 12-point spread, but the 44 points went UNDER the posted total of 53.

Levi Brown threw for 181 yards with three touchdowns to lead the way.

Austin Davis threw for two touchdowns to lead Southern Miss to a 28-12 win SMU in Week 14.

The Eagles covered the 14-point spread, while the final score played UNDER the posted total of 59.

Team records:
Troy: 8-4 SU, 7-4 ATS
Southern Miss: 6-6 SU, 7-5 ATS

Troy most recently:
When playing in December are 4-2
When playing on turf are 7-3
After outgaining opponent are 6-4
When playing outside the conference are 4-6

Southern Miss most recently:
When playing in December are 4-6
When playing on turf are 5-5
After outgaining opponent are 5-5
When playing outside the conference are 5-5

A few trends to consider:
Troy is 6-2 SU in its last 8 games
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Troy's last 6 games
Troy is 4-2 ATS in its last 6 games
Southern Miss is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games
Southern Miss is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games

Key Stats - Week 16
By Scott Rickenbach

Heading into Week 16 of the NFL please note these stats (all are ATS - against the spread, unless otherwise noted) are definitely items to consider as you look at the deep NFL card.

However, this does not mean these are "plays" in the true sense of the word. That said, the hope is that the ATS information below helps you as you "traverse" this week's NFL card!

1) The Eagles are 23-9 ATS in their last 32 road games against a divisional foe. Sunday they are at Washington and the Redskins are just 1-6 ATS in their last seven home games against a divisional foe. With Philadelphia on a red-hot late season run and Washington falling apart over the last two months, the Eagles might be worth a look on Sunday! This is a classic "hot vs not" situation and, of course, the Eagles have plenty of motivation here. It's a revenge game for them due to a home loss to Washington earlier this season AND Philadelphia is fighting to get into the playoffs! Even with injuries at the wide receiver spot, you might consider a play on the Eagles Sunday.

2) Seattle is 12-5 ATS when hosting an AFC opponent. Also, it's the Jets they are hosting this week and, with New York coming all the way from the East Coast, it's worth noting that the Seahawks are 5-2 ATS in their last seven games hosting a team who plays it's home teams in the Eastern Time Zone. The Jets certainly haven't fared well out west this season either! Also, New York is just 2-6 ATS in their last eight games versus NFC opponents. Additionally, the Jets are just 1-4 ATS in their last five games as a favorite versus a team from outside the AFC East. This is about as poor of a situation as you could ask for if you're a Jets fan. New York is out west, against a NFC team looking to play the role of spoiler and Jets QB Brett Favre has been awful on the West Coast this season! Seahawks might be worth a look here in Holmgren's final home game!

3) Houston is a solid 5-2 ATS after a game where they faced divisional opposition. This is one of those stranger stats where you don't ask too many questions you merely recognize that the Texans are not your typical team. Whereas most teams tend to be flat after facing a divisional opponent, Houston tends to draw on the momentum built up from having faced an AFC South foe. Last week the Texans beat the Titans but don't look for them to fall flat here. Houston has been playing their best football of the season here at the end of the year and they're now facing a Raiders team that is an unbelievable 6-21 ATS in their last 27 games at home! While the point spread is a little steep here, the Texans could be considered here, especially if the line stays at -7 or less.

4) St. Louis is now on a 0-7 ATS run in divisional play. Last week the Rams were home against Seattle and they lost yet again! This week they are now hosting a 49'ers team that has lost the money just six times in their last 18 divisional games. Also, San Francisco is playing some of their best football of the season right now! Conversely, the Rams really can't wait for the season to end! It's been a disaster for them and yet and another ATS loss to a divisional foe appears to be on the horizon here.

5) Pittsburgh is 5-1 ATS the last six seasons in their final road game of the season. While many may have trouble fading Tennessee here, note that the Titans are proving to be human after all. Tennessee has lost twice in the last four weeks and, after a 10-0 start, the Titans are indeed quite beatable. Their only two wins in the last four weeks came against Cleveland and Detroit and those teams are a combined 4-24 this season! In other words, the Titans are quite likely to be tested again as it's a tough foe that is visiting Tennessee this week and the Titans do have injury issues along the defensive line. In the two losses the Titans have had in the last four weeks, they scored 13 points or less in each game and they now face a very staunch defense this week. Pittsburgh's amazing run could continue here as they continue to find a way to win games late. Do the Steelers have another one left in them here?

Key Contests
By Brad Young

**Steelers at Titans**

-Caesars Palace lists Pittsburgh as a two-point road ‘chalk’ over Tennessee, with the total set at 34 ½. The Titans originally opened as a three-point favorite until getting hit with some key injuries. CBS Sports will begin its coverage of this contest beginning at 1:00 p.m. ET from LP Field in Nashville.

-Pittsburgh (11-3 straight up, 8-6 against the spread) has won five games in a row SU and four consecutive ATS after slipping past Baltimore last weekend as a three-point road underdog, 13-9. The combined 22 points never seriously threatened the 34-point closing total, helping the ‘under’ cash the second consecutive contest.

-The Steelers prevailed by outscoring the Ravens in the fourth quarter, 10-0, finishing the contest with advantages in first downs (18-12), passing yards (220-90) and time of possession (31:38-28:22). Quarterback Ben Roethlisberger was 22-of-40 passing for 246 yards with a touchdown, while Willie Parker paced the ground game with 14 carries for 47 yards.

-Tennessee (12-2 SU, 11-3 ATS) had won back-to-back games SU and ATS before falling to Houston last weekend as a three-point road ‘chalk,’ 13-12. The combined 25 points never seriously threatened the 45-point closing total.

-Despite the one-point setback, the Titans trailed the Texans in first downs (22-14), rushing yards (107-100), passing yards (268-181), turnovers forced (2-1) and time of possession (36:22-23:38). Quarterback Kerry Collins completed 15-of-33 passes for 181 yards with an interception, while running back Chris Johnson had 13 carries for 65 yards.

-Pittsburgh throttled Tennessee during the last meeting back in 2005 as a seven-point home favorite, 34-7. The combined 41 points slithered ‘over’ the 40-point closing total.

-Pittsburgh defensive end Brett Keisel (knee) and offensive tackle Marvel Smith (back) are ‘questionable’ against the Titans, while running back Rashard Mendenhall (shoulder) is on injured reserve.

-Tennessee running back Quinton Ganther (hamstring) is ‘questionable’ versus the Steelers, while defensive end Kyle Vanden Bosch (groin), defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth (knee) and defensive tackle Kevin Vickerson (suspsension) are ‘out.’

-Sunday’s forecast for Nashville, Tennessee is calling for high winds in the 20-30 mph range. The projected high calls for 38 degrees with a low of 20.

**Dolphins at Chiefs**

-Caesars Palace opened Miami as a four-point road favorite over Kansas City, with the total set at 40. CBS Sports starts its coverage of this contest at 1:00 p.m. ET from Kansas City’s Arrowhead Stadium.

-Miami (9-5 SU, 6-8 ATS) has put together three consecutive SU victories after knocking off San Francisco last weekend as a six-point home ‘chalk,’ 14-9. The combined 23 points failed to eclipse the 41-point closing total, helping the ‘under’ improve to 7-1 the past eight outings.

-The Dolphins prevailed despite being on the short end of first downs (24-11), rushing yards (112-98), passing yards (206-150) and time of possession (38:13-21:47). Quarterback Chad Pennington completed 12-of-19 passes for 156 yards with two touchdowns, while Ronnie Brown ran 10 times for 67 yards.

-Kansas City (2-12 SU, 8-6 ATS) continued its downward spiral with its loss to San Diego last weekend as a 5 ½-point home underdog, 22-21. The combined 43 points went ‘over’ the 41-point closing total, ending a string of back-to-back ‘under’ outings.

-The Chiefs appeared to have control of the contest before being outscored in the fourth quarter, 12-0. Kansas City did finish the game by leading the Chargers in rushing yards (102-68), turnovers forced (3-1) and time of possession (32:11-27:49). Quarterback Tyler Thigpen completed 19-of-28 passes for 171 yards with a touchdown and an interception, while Larry Johnson contributed with 17 carries for 55 yards.

-Miami knocked off Kansas City during the last meeting back in 2006 as a 1 ½-point home favorite, 13-10. The combined 23 points never seriously threatened the 40-point closing total.

-Miami linebacker Channing Crowder (knee) is ‘probable’ versus the Chiefs.

-Kansas City defensive end Alfonso Boone (thigh), offensive tackle Branden Albert (leg), linebacker Donnie Edwards (knee), cornerback Maurice Leggett (shoulder) and center Rudy Niswanger (knee) are ‘questionable’ against the Dolphins.

-Sunday’s forecast for Kansas City, Missouri calls for a high of just 16 degrees and low of seven. Things will be even colder behind high winds projected to be around 10-20 mph.

**Cardinals at Patriots**

-Caesars Palace installed New England as a 7 ½-point home ‘chalk’ over Arizona, with the total listed at 45. FOX Sports will provide coverage of this matchup beginning at 1:00 p.m. ET from Foxboro’s Gillette Stadium.

-Arizona (8-6 SU and ATS) dropped to 1-3 SU and ATS its last four games after getting run over by Minnesota last weekend as a 3 ½-point home favorite, 35-14. The combined 49 points toppled the 47-point closing total, helping the ‘over’ improve to 3-1 the previous four outings.

-The Cardinals never recovered after falling behind 21-0 in the first quarter, finishing the game with disadvantages in first downs (20-16), rushing yards (239-43), turnovers forced (2-1) and time of possession (34:34-25:26). Quarterback Kurt Warner was 29-of-45 passing for 270 yards with a touchdown and an interception, while running back J.J. Arrington had just two carries for 23 yards.

-New England (9-5 SU, 7-7 ATS) notched its second consecutive SU victory after cruising past Oakland last weekend as a seven-point road ‘chalk,’ 49-26. The combined 75 points soared past the 39-point closing total, enabling the ‘over’ to cash the fifth game in a row.

-The Patriots finished the matchup with advantages in first downs (29-19), rushing yards (277-116) and time of possession (30:41-29:19). Signal caller Matt Cassell was 18-of-30 passing for 218 yards with four touchdowns and an interception, while Sammy Morris contributed 117 yards and a touchdown on 14 carries.

-New England knocked off Arizona during the last meeting back in 2004 as a 7 ½-point road favorite, 23-12. The combined 35 points went ‘under’ the 41 ½-point closing total.

-Arizona wide receiver Anquan Boldin (shoulder), running back J.J. Arrington (knee), wide receiver Early Doucet (hamstring), defensive end Travis LaBoy (ankle) and linebacker Pago Togafau (knee) are ‘questionable’ against the Patriots, while linebacker Clark Haggans (foot) is ‘out.’

-New England linebacker Gary Guyton (ankle) is ‘questionable’ versus the Cardinals, while offensive tackle Matt Light (shoulder) and free safety James Sanders (abdominal) are ‘doubtful.’

-Sunday’s forecast for Foxboro, Massachusetts calls for a 70 percent chance of a wintry mix of snow and sleet. The high is listed at 40 degrees with a low of 20, while winds are expected to be around 20-30 mph.

**Chargers at Buccaneers**

-Caesars Palace lists Tampa Bay as a 3 ½-point home ‘chalk’ over San Diego, with the total set at 42. CBS Sports starts its coverage of this game at 1:00 p.m. ET from Tampa Bay’s Raymond James Stadium.

-San Diego (6-8 SU, 5-8 ATS) has strung together back-to-back SU victories after slipping past Kansas City last weekend as a 5 ½-point road favorite, 22-21. The combined 43 points went ‘over’ the 41-point closing total, ending a string of five straight ‘under’ outings.

-Signal caller Philip Rivers completed 34-of-48 passes for 346 yards with two touchdowns and an interception. Running back LaDainian Tomlinson had 15 carries for 39 yards with a touchdown, while wideout Vincent Jackson contributed with six receptions for 89 yards and a score.

-Tampa Bay (9-5 SU, 8-6 ATS) is currently mired in a two-game SU losing skid after falling to Atlanta in overtime last weekend as a five-point road underdog, 13-10. The combined 23 points failed to eclipse the 43 ½-point closing total, helping the ‘under’ improve to 7-3 the past 10 games.

-The Bucs finished the contest with advantages in first downs (19-18), passing yards (269-198) and turnovers forced (3-1). Quarterback Brian Griese completed 26-of-37 passes for 269 yards with a touchdown and an interception, while Carnell Williams carried the ball 14 times for 59 yards.

-San Diego defeated Tampa Bay during the last meeting back in 2004 as a 4 ½-point home ‘chalk,’ 31-24. The combined 55 points went ‘over’ the 43-point closing total.

-San Diego wide receiver Chris Chambers (head), wide receiver Malcom Floyd (lung), center Nick Hardwick (concussion), strong safety Clinton Hart (shoulder), linebacker Anthony Waters (hamstring) and fullback Mike Tolbert (shoulder) are ‘questionable’ against the Bucs.

-Tampa Bay quarterback Jeff Garcia (calf) and defensive tackle Chris Hovan (knee) are ‘probable’ versus the Chargers, while linebacker Derrick Brooks (ribs), defensive end Gaines Adams (ankle) and offensive lineman Jeremy Zuttah (ankle) are ‘questionable.’

-Sunday’s forecast for Tampa Bay, Florida calls for a few showers, with a high of 77 degrees and a low of 51.

vegasinsider.com

Pick Your Poison
By Judd Hall

Not every game in a given week of the NFL will be winners. Sometimes you’ll have to have a fifth of scotch and an appreciation for bad comedy to make it through some of the contests. Week 16 of the season has three such games to peruse. So sit back, relax and keep a phone handy to put in a few “investments” with your local broker for these three laughers that all start at 1:00 p.m. EST.

Cincinnati Bengals at Cleveland Browns

The good folks at Las Vegas Sports Consultants have listed the Browns as three-point home favorites for this battle of Ohio with a total of 32 ½. Bettors will be able to back the Bengals for the road victory here on the money line at plus-120 (risk $100 to win $120).

Perhaps the most interesting this on this line is the fact that Cleveland opened as a two-point “chalk.” Yet a whopping 97 percent of the money that Sportsbook.com has seen come in is backing the Bengals to win outright, while 72 percent of the gamblers are taking them to just cover the number. Despite that kind of amount, the line has stayed the same right now. The public has also had their hand in pushing the total around in this matchup as LVSC original set the combined score at 35. Currently, 88 percent of the cash is going on the ‘over’ for this tilt.

It’s clear to pretty much everyone who has watched them play that the Browns are merely playing out the string. Cleveland’s 30-10 defeat as a 16-point road ‘dog to the Eagles was its fourth straight loss and sixth in its last seven games. The Brownies’ offense or lack thereof is the major culprit of their woes having not scored a touchdown on the attack since Nov. 17.

Cleveland will send out a rebuilt squad for this game Ken Dorsey staying under center. Tight ends Kellen Winslow Jr. (ankle) and Steve Heiden (ankle) will both be out. That means Darnell Dinkins and Martin Rucker will line up for duty.

The Bengals are entering this game with a little jump in their step after beating Washington as seven-point home pups, 20-13. Yet Cincinnati has just 13 sacks this season, while giving up 22 passing touchdowns. So you can take that win with a grain of salt. Plus it gives Dorsey a chance to make a play or two through the air.

The home team has gone 6-4 straight up, but just 5-5 against the spread in the last 10 meetings. The ‘under’ is on a 5-2 run in this rivalry.

San Francisco 49ers at St. Louis Rams

LVSC opened the ‘Niners as 3 ½-point road favorites for this NFC West snooze fest with a total of 43. The line now sits with San Francisco as a five-point chalk with the total getting a modest bump to 43 ½. The public has tossed 79 percent of their money on the Rams to win at home at plus-200 (risk $100 to win $200).

San Fran has gone 3-2 SU and 4-1 ATS in its last five matches. While some will say that it has to do with the coaching of Mike Singletary, it really falls on the shoulders of signal caller Shaun Hill. The Maryland product has completed 67 percent of his passes in his last five starts for 1,195 yards with seven touchdowns and just two interceptions. That has helped him rank ninth in the NFL with a quarterback rating of 91.8.

The odds look good that he’ll be able to keep up the pace this Sunday against a Rams defense that is 24th in the league against the pass, giving up 223.6 yards per game this year. And we can’t forget about the fact that the 49ers’ Isaac Bruce will be returning to St. Louis for the first time as part of the opposition. He should help create some openings for the ‘Niners wide receivers as St. Louis will most likely use some double teams on their former teammate.

The 49ers are a lowly 2-5 SU on the road this year, but 4-3 ATS. They have covered the number in five of their last six matches.

St. Louis is 1-6 SU at the Edward Jones Dome in 2008. Bettors have used them a solid home fade as they’re 2-5 ATS.

The Rams have lost their last two home clashes with San Francisco both SU and ATS.

The ‘under’ is 7-3 in the past 10 meetings between the ‘Niners and Rams.

New Orleans Saints at Detroit Lions

Most betting shops have made the Saints seven-point road faves with a total that is going from as low as 50 ½ to 51 ½. Detroit is listed from plus-220 to plus-270 on the money line.

The Lions may have lost their 14th straight game of the season against Indianapolis as 17-point road ‘dogs, 31-21. But they are starting to play a little better, covering the number for the second straight week.

Dan Orlovsky completed 23 of 34 passes for 233 yards and a score in his first start since hurting his thumb on Nov. 2. The performance was good enough to earn his second start under center for the Lions.

New Orleans is playing on 10 days rest after falling to the Bears in overtime, 27-24, as a three-point road pup on Dec. 11. The combined 51 went ‘over’ the closing total of 45 ½…it was the third time in four games that has happened for the Saints.

The Saints are hurting right now in the backfield with Deuce McAllister (knee) listed as “questionable” and Reggie Bush (knee) on injured reserve for the rest of the year. That will force Drew Brees into throwing more than he already is used to doing now anyway. But keep in mind that he also is second only to Brett Favre in interceptions with 16.

Detroit has lost on seven home games they’ve had this year SU, but covered the spread in one of those affairs. Bettors should take note of the ‘over’ going 4-2-1 when the Lions are at Ford Field.

The ‘over’ is 8-0 in the last eight games New Orleans has played in December.

The Lions might have a chance here as they have beaten the Saints in three straight games both SU and ATS.

vegasinsider.com

Green Bay at Chicago
By Brad Young

A pair of cold weather rivals collide in less than ideal circumstances on Monday Night Football. NFC North foes Green Bay and Chicago meet at Soldier Field, where Monday’s high is projected to eight degrees with a low of two.

The Packers have been reduced to the role of spoiler due to a late-season skid, while the Bears are still fighting for a playoff slot. Chicago still has a slight shot at the NFC North title, but most likely will be relegated to the wildcard if it continues its winning ways.

Caesars Palace currently lists Chicago as a four-point home ‘chalk’ over Green Bay, with the total set at 41. The line opened at 4 ½ with the total listed at 41 ½. ESPN will provide coverage of Monday Night Football beginning at 8:35 p.m. ET.

Green Bay (5-9 straight up, 7-7 against the spread) enters this matchup mired in a four-game SU and ATS losing skid after falling to Jacksonville last weekend as a three-point road favorite, 20-16. The combined 36 points failed to topple the 46-point closing total, helping the ‘under’ cash the second consecutive contest.

The Packers appeared headed to victory until getting outscored in the fourth quarter, 13-3. Quarterback Aaron Rodgers completed 20-of-32 passes for 278 yards with a touchdown and an interception, while running back Ryan Grant had 21 carries for 56 yards.

Chicago (8-6 SU, 6-6 ATS) improved to 3-1 SU its last four games after slipping past New Orleans in overtime December 11 as a three-point home ‘chalk,’ 27-24. The combined 51 points went ‘over’ the 46-point closing total.

The Bears prevailed despite trailing the Saints in first downs (22-16), rushing yards (119-55), passing yards (232-172), turnovers forced (3-2) and time of possession (36:32-26:14). Quarterback Kyle Orton was 24-of-40 passing for 172 yards with two interceptions, while Matt Forte had 11 carries for 34 yards and a score.

The home team has won the last two games in the Green Bay-Chicago series by a combined 62 points. The Packers routed the Bears November 16 as a 3 ½-point home favorite, 37-3, while the combined 40 points went ‘under’ the 43-point closing total.

Green Bay linebacker Danny Lansanah (arm), fullback Korey Hall (knee) and defensive tackle Justin Harrell (hip) are ‘questionable’ versus the Bears.

Chicago running back Matt Forte (toe) is listed as ‘probable’ against the Packers, while wide receiver Marty Booker (leg) and fullback Jason McKie (quad) are ‘questionable.’

vegasinsider.com

Five at Four
By Edwards

Bettors have five games kicking at around 4:00 p.m. Eastern on Sunday. Four of the five games have playoff implications. Let’s take a look.

**Bills at Broncos**

--Las Vegas Sports Consultants opened Denver (8-6 straight up, 4-9-1 against the spread) as a seven-point favorite with a total of 46. As of early this morning, most books had adjusted the Broncos to 6 ½-point ‘chalk.’ The total was down to 45. The Bills are plus-240 on the money line (risk $100 to win $240).

--Denver has been atrocious at home this season, at least for our purposes. The Broncos have won four of their seven games in the Mile High City, but they are an abysmal 0-6-1 ATS at Invesco Field.

--Buffalo (6-8 SU, 6-8 ATS) has been eliminated from the post-season picture even though it started the season with a 5-1 record. Since then, the Bills have lost seven of their last eight games, going 2-6 ATS. They are off a 31-27 loss to the Jets, but they did take the money as nine-point road underdogs.

--Denver had won four of its last five games until it went into Charlotte last week and took a 30-10 clubbing from the Panthers. Jay Cutler threw for just 172 yards and was intercepted once. The Broncos failed to cash tickets as seven-point underdogs.

--Denver cornerback Champ Bailey has missed seven straight games since leaving a loss at New England with a groin injury. The perennial Pro-Bowler is “questionable” this week.

--I think this is a dangerous game to bet on if Tampa Bay beats San Diego in a one o’clock game. If the Bucs prevail, the Broncos clinch the AFC West and will have nothing to play for. I don’t know that Mike Shanahan will necessarily bench Cutler in that scenario, but it is a possibility (especially for parts of – if not all of – the second half). And you would think Bailey would definitely sit out if San Diego loses. If the Chargers win, the Broncos will have to beat the Bills or else face a post-season play-in game next week at San Diego.

--Dating back to 1995, Denver has won five in a row against Buffalo. With that said, the Bills are 3-2 ATS in those five meetings.

--The ‘over’ is 7-6-1 overall for the Bills, 4-3 in their road assignments. They are 3-4 SU and 4-3 ATS on the road.

--The ‘under’ is 7-6-1 overall for the Broncos, 5-2 in their home games. The ‘under’ has cashed at a 7-2-1 clip in Denver’s last 10 outings.

**Falcons at Vikings**

--LVSC opened Minnesota (9-5 SU, 6-8 ATS) as a four-point favorite with a total of 45. As of early this morning, most betting shops had the Vikings at three or 3 ½. For the most part, the books using three had a minus-120 price tag on Minnesota, meaning backers of the Falcons were getting them at even money. The total is 43 ½ at most spots. Mike Smith’s squad is plus-150 to win outright.

--Atlanta (9-5 SU, 8-6 ATS) stayed in post-season contention by beating Tampa Bay 13-10 in overtime last week. For those who took the Falcons during the week, the victory resulted in a push. However, when Jeff Garcia was ruled “out” early Sunday, most books moved the Falcons to five-point ‘chalk,’ so they failed to cover according to the closing line.

--Atlanta running back Michael Turner continued to prove that he was the NFL’s best free-agent signing from this past off-season. Turner carried the Falcons to the winner’s circle by rushing for 152 yards and one touchdown on 32 workmanlike carries. John Abraham led the defense with three sacks.

--Minnesota has won four in a row and six of its last seven, including last week’s 35-14 blowout win at Arizona as a four-point underdog. Tarvaris Jackson, making his first start since being benched after a Week 2 loss to Indianapolis, threw four touchdown passes and Adrian Peterson ran for 165 yards.

--When Peterson runs up the middle today against the Falcons, his former Oklahoma teammate Curtis Lofton will be looking to stop him. Lofton, the Falcons' second-round draft choice who has started 13 of 14 games, leads all rookies in tackles with 100. Peterson leads the NFL in rushing with 1,581 yards.

--Minnesota run-stuffing DT Pat Williams is "out" with a shoulder injury. His absence is good news for Turner and Jerious Norwood.

--The Vikings are 5-1 SU and 3-3 ATS at home, while the Falcons are 3-4 both SU and ATS on the road.

--The ‘over’ is 9-5 overall for Minnesota and has hit in three of its last four games. The Vikings’ offense has been hot, scoring 30 points or more in three of their last four games, 28 or more in six of their last eight.

--The ‘under’ is 8-6 overall for the Falcons, but they have watched the ‘over’ go 5-3 in their eight games played in domes (seven in Atlanta, one in New Orleans).

--"We have Minnesota as a 3 point home favorite and 63% of action has come in on the Vikings," said Eddie Franks, the Head Oddsmaker at Brobury Sports. Franks also told VI, "The key betting stat for this game is that Atlanta is an impressive 5-1 ATS when the spread is within 3 points. Look for that trend to continue because I expect the Vikings will struggle to stop Michael Turner, especially with DT Pat Williams out for the remainder of the regular season."

**Jets at Seahawks**

--Most books are listing New York (9-5 SU, 7-7 ATS) as a 3 ½-point favorite with a total of 42. The Seahawks are plus-160 on the money line (risk $100 to win $160).

--Eric Mangini’s squad is in a three-way tie with the Patriots and Dolphins for first place in the AFC East. The Jets pulled off a stunning rally to collect last week’s crucial 31-27 win over Buffalo. With the Bills nursing a 3-point lead with 1:54 remaining, Abram Elam sacked J.P. Losman to force a fumble that Shaun Ellis scooped up and ran 11 yards for the game-winning touchdown. Nevertheless, the Jets failed to cover the spread for the third straight game.

--Seattle (3-11 SU, 6-7-1 ATS) has endured a nightmare campaign in Mike Holmgren’s last season on the job. Injuries to QB Matt Hasselbeck and several of his WRs have resulted in missed games galore. The Seahawks have limped to a 1-6 SU record and a 2-4-1 ATS mark at home.

--Two of Seattle’s best players – DE Patrick Kerney and OT Walter Jones – have gone on injured reserve in recent weeks. Hasselbeck is also “out” this week, missing his third straight game and his seventh of the season.

--The Jets are 4-3 SU and 3-3-1 ATS on the road this season, but they are just 1-2 versus the number in three games as road favorites. Meanwhile, the Seahawks are 1-2-1 ATS as home ‘dogs.

--The ‘over’ is 8-5-1 overall for the Jets, 3-3-1 in their road contests.

--The ‘under’ is on a 5-1-1 run in Seattle’s last seven games.

**Eagles at Redskins**

--LVSC opened Philadelphia (8-5-1 SU, 9-5 ATS) as a 4 ½-point ‘chalk’ with a total of 37. As of early this morning, most books had the Eagles at five with the tally unchanged. The Redskins are plus-190 on the money line.

--"We opened Philadelphia as a five-point favorite and the sharp action has been all over the Eagles," Franks told VI. "Of the plays we've taken, 84% of the bets have been on the Eagles."

--Washington (7-7 SU, 5-8-1 ATS) has completely fallen apart in recent weeks. The Redskins maintain an extremely small chance of making the playoffs if they win out and get a ton of help. But that’s highly unlikely.

--Jim Zorn’s team has lost three in a row and five of its last six games. The ‘Skins lost a 20-13 decision at Cincinnati last week as 6 ½-point road favorites. Tensions have been running high at Redskins Park over the last month and change. Zorn benched Clinton Portis two weeks ago, causing the franchise RB to rip on the first-year coach on sports-talk radio. After the loss to the Bengals, Zorn told the press that he “feels like the dumbest coach in the NFL.” There is speculation that trigger-happy owner Dan Snyder might jettison Zorn out of town after just one season, especially if Bill Cowher indicates any interest in the job.

--Portis is third in the NFL in rushing with 1,337 rushing yards. However, he's listed as "questionable" today with a back injury.

--Philadelphia has caught fire since its blowout loss at Baltimore in which Andy Reid benched Donovan McNabb for the first time in his career. The Eagles have won three straight games both SU and ATS, including Monday’s 30-10 win (and spread cover) over Cleveland as healthy 16-point home favorites.

--McNabb and RB Brian Westbrook have been sensational during Philly’s three-game winning streak. McNabb has a 7/1 touchdown-interception ratio, while Westbrook has 294 rushing yards for three TDs. Westbrook also has 12 receptions for 106 yards and three TDs.

--"Philadelphia is 9-5 ATS and is focused to keep its playoff hopes alive," Franks told VI. "With Westbrook healthy, expect them to score points in bundles and easily cover. Also, take note of the low total of 37. Don’t be surprised to see this game go 'over' sometime in the third quarter."

--Washington has seen the ‘under’ go an incredible 9-0-1 in its last 10 games.

--The Eagles have watched the 'under' go 7-6-1 overall, but the 'over' is 4-3 in their road assignments.

--The ‘Skins are 0-2 both SU and ATS in a pair of games as home ‘dogs in 2008.

**Texans at Raiders**

--Houston (7-7 SU, 7-7 ATS) is a seven-point road favorite at most spots. The total is 44 and the Raiders are plus-250 on the money line.

--Gary Kubiak’s team is on fire with four straight wins. Even better, the Texans are on a five-game winning streak ATS. They beat the AFC-leading Titans 13-12 last week as three-point home underdogs.

--Oakland (3-11 SU, 5-9 ATS) has had another abysmal season, losing eight games by double-digit margins. The Raiders have lost three straight both SU and ATS, including last week’s 49-26 home loss to the Patriots.

--The ‘over’ is 9-5 overall for the Texans, 5-2 in their road games. However, the ‘under’ has cashed in four straight Houston games (regardless of venue).

--The ‘under’ is 8-5-1 overall for Oakland, 4-3 in its home games. The ‘under’ is on a 7-2-1 in the Raiders’ last 10 games.

**B.E.’s Bonus Nuggets**

--Eliminator Update: I survived another week thanks to the Eagles’ win over Cleveland on MNF. This week is tough as my only realistic options were the Texans, Saints and Bucs. Although I haven’t taken a road team all year, I decided on Houston because I’m worried about New Orleans’ focus, and I anticipate Detroit playing with playoff-like intensity in its last home game as it attempts to dodge the 0-16 label for life.

--How on earth did Atlanta defensive end John Abraham get left out of the Pro-Bowl? I think he should be in the top 10 in terms of MVP consideration. Abraham hasn’t missed a game despite neck and shoulder injuries. He has 15 ½ sacks -- good for third in the NFL -- and three forced fumbles. He has been the defensive playmaker on a team that’s gone from 4-12 to 9-5 with a better-than-decent chance to make the playoffs.

--Buffalo will miss the playoffs for the ninth consecutive season.

--Dallas head coach Wade Phillips had the voice of a defeated man in last night's post-game interview. He reminded me of Ron Zook after the Gators lost at Mississippi St. in 2004 two days before his dismissal. The demise of the 'Boys will most likely result in Phillips taking a pink slip, but it was Jerry Jones that brought team cancers like T.O. and Pacman to Valley Ranch, not Phillips.

--Baltimore went into Texas Stadium on Saturday night and turned the lights out without even asking for permission. The Ravens captured a 33-24 win as 5 1/2-point underdogs, cashing plus-170 money-line tickets for their backers. The Cowboys are now on the cusp of missing the playoffs, as Tampa Bay and Atlanta have the upper hand in the NFC wild-card race. They have to win next week at Philadelphia and hope that either the Falcons or Bucs lose once. If those NFC South squads prevail today against Minnesota and San Diego, the 'Boys will be in big trouble because Atlanta and Tampa are both at home next week against St. Louis and Oakland, respectively.

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Panthers-Giants preview
By Josh Jacobs

Sunday Night Football on NBC is gearing up for one of the most important and anticipated games to be aired this year. The Panthers (11-3 straight up, 8-5-1 against the spread) and Giants (11-3 SU, 10-4 ATS) are feuding for the No. 1 seed in the NFC and only one team will emerge from the evening spectacle with home field advantage throughout the playoffs.

Books across the board opened New York as three-point home favorites (that spread hasn’t changed all week), while a total of 37 ½ reflects the poor weather conditions expected to hit the Meadowlands.

Most weather services are indicating an on-field temperature dipping to 16 degrees Fahrenheit with a wind exceeding 20 miles per hour. A mix of rain during the afternoon hours should give way to increasing snow output by game time.

First things first, the running game will be the deciding factor.

The Giants must rely on returning running back Brandon Jacobs to guide them through the turbulent times that have afflicted their team since dropping a divisional contest against Philadelphia, 20-14 in Week 14.

New York has been outyarded in the rushing department just three times this season. The last two losses have witnessed the G-Men being outgained on the ground by a total of 84 yards. In-fact, New York has averaged 88.8 YPG on the ground in the last four weeks.

And talking about the wrecking ball of a runner that defines Jacobs, his inability to notch a 100-yard effort since Week 10 says a lot about the turn of events in New York. Granted, he’s missed two games in the last four weeks. It just can’t be overlooked that the success of the Giants runs almost directly parallel with how the running game performs.

The Giants’ backs Derrick Ward and Ahmad Bradshaw combined for a lonely 72 yards of rushing production in last week’s loss to Dallas (20-8).

Heading in the opposite direction, at least in the short term, is a Panthers’ club that’s raked up a 7-1 SU and 5-3 ATS record in the last eight games.

Carolina has been able to maintain scoring 33.5 PPG in its last four wins. The 'D' is allowing the opposition to find the end zone for 19.4 PPG in the last 10 and has awarded total players with a 5-2 run on the ‘over’ in the last seven.

The field general in charge of moving the Panthers through the air has maintained a passing percentage of 66.5 in the last four games. Despite Jake Delhomme’s inconsistencies throughout the season he’s been able to limit mistakes (with exception to four interceptions thrown in Week 10 and three interceptions during Week 6).

The same tactics that have brought the Giants wins in the standings has also served Carolina great success. Led by DeAngelo Williams (1,229 rushing yards, 14 touchdowns), the running game has helped the Panthers log in a sixth best, 60 percent success rate from scoring within the red zone.

That grind mentality on the ground has helped Carolina log in a 5-2-1 ATS report at home this season and a hot 8-3-1 ATS billing on natural turf. However, those trends are nullified this week as the Panthers are a gimpy 3-3 ATS on the road and a winless 0-2 ATS on artificial turf.

Eddie Franks, an oddsmaker at Brobury Sports explained that, "The Panthers, meanwhile have won their last three games ATS, and are quietly one of the hottest teams in the NFL. Action is slightly on the Panthers at 56% due to these trends, but you aren’t going to see the line move from the Giants as three-point favorites. No one would bet the Giants based on their performance in the last two weeks so the sharp action on their side is saying that those games were aberrations."

Surprisingly, Carolina has held the ball on offense for an average of just 29:12, 21st worst in the NFL.

Carolina has been a defensive presence since joining the team as head coach in 2002. While not overly impressive, the Panthers secondary has held the opposition to passing for 204.4 YPG which in turn has aided in an 8-6 ‘under’ record on the season (5-3 ‘under’ at home versus 3-3 on the road).

That same mentality on the road has seen Carolina sacrificing 25.5 PPG on ‘D’ versus 18.9 PPG allowed on the season (maybe a good reason for the 3-3 ATS stint on the road).

A fact that can’ be overlooked is in eight of Carolina’s last nine wins the running game has outyarded opponents by an 81.1 YPG margin (resulting in a 4-3 record on the ‘under’). That’s in stark contrast to the passing game being outgained for a 43.4 YPG margin in the same eight contests.

New York enters Sunday night with a 1-0 ATS stint when installed as three-point favorites, while Carolina is 1-2 ATS when set anywhere from a pick ‘em to three-point ‘dogs. Both clubs have been on fire in conference play with the Giants owning an 8-2 ATS record versus the Panthers’ going 7-3 ATS.

Carolina is 11-5-1 ATS in its last 17 games, while the ‘under’ has been dominant, reflected by an 11-5 record in the last 16 games when installed as an underdog.

The Panthers last met the Giants in December of 2006. New York was able to post 10 points in the second-half, pushing it past Carolina by the final tune of 27-13. The G-Men covered the three-point spread with the 'over' just clearing the 38 1/2-point total. The Panthers are 6-2 ATS in head-to-head matchups since 1996.

New York has listed Brandon Jacobs (knee) and WR Domenik Hixon (ankle) as ‘probable’ for Sunday’s throw down. The Panthers may have problems of their own with defensive tackle Ma’ake Kemoeatu (ankle) and starting guard Keydrick Vincent (groin) listed as ‘questionable’. Kemoeatu has 31 tackles on the season with his main strength centered on stopping the run game.

Franks from Brobury Sports had this to say about the return of the bruising running back for New York. "While Ward and Bradshaw are good running backs, Jacobs’ bruising style makes them that much better late in the game. Since he is healthy this week, there is great value on the Giants giving only three points at home."

The Giants signed wide out Derek Hagan during the week, indicating that a trust in the wide receiver core may be degrading. In the hard fought loss to Dallas last week, New York’s QB Eli Manning was sacked eight times. His time spent in the pocket indicated that Hixon, Amani Toomer and Steve Smith had problems creating space between themselves and Dallas’ secondary.

Hagen, a standout receiver from Arizona State, was released by the Dolphins in early November. His six-foot-two, 215-pound frame could be useful for a Giants team losing faith in WR Sinorice Moss. Plans to implement rookie wide out Mario Manningham is another option that New York is hoping will serve purpose.

The Giants are 14-3 ATS in their last 17 versus a team with a winning record and are 24-8 ATS in their last 32 games played.

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Pittsburgh (11-3, 8-6 ATS) at Tennessee (12-2, 11-3 ATS)

The surging Steelers head to LP Field to take on the AFC-leading Titans in a game that will decide the #1 seed and home-field advantage in the upcoming AFC playoffs.

Pittsburgh stunned Baltimore 13-9 as a three-point road underdog, driving 92 yards for a last-minute TD to earn its fifth straight win and fourth straight cover as it clinched the AFC North title. QB Ben Roethlisberger (22 of 40, 246 yards, 1 TD) did little until leading the game-winning drive, capped by a 4-yard TD pass to Santonio Holmes. But the Steelers’s top-ranked defense was sterling once again, allowing just 202 total yards and picking off Joe Flacco twice as both teams finished with two turnovers.

Tennessee stubbed its toe at Houston last week, falling 13-12 as a three-point road favorite, halting a two-game SU and ATS uptick, as the SU winner is now 13-1 in the Titans’ 14 games this season. QB Kerry Collins (15 of 33, 181 yards, 0 TDs, 1 INT) had a lackluster outing as Tennessee mustered just a field goal in each quarter, going 2-for-13 on third down. The Titans got outgained 375-281, allowing 100 yards rushing by RB Steve Slaton and a whopping 207 receiving yards from WR Andre Johnson.

These teams have alternated ATS wins over their last five clashes, with Pittsburgh rolling 34-7 as a seven-point favorite in their last meeting during the 2005 season. The Steelers are 6-2 ATS in the last eight versus Tennessee, and the underdog is on a 4-1 ATS run.

The Steelers have cashed in their final regular-season road game five of the past six years, and they are on additional ATS streaks of 5-0 in roadies, 4-0 against winning teams and 11-4 in December. That said, they are also 5-17 ATS in their last 22 games as a chalk of three points or less.

In addition to their season-long 11-3 ATS run, the Titans sport positive pointspread trends of 5-2 at LP Field overall, 6-1 as a home ‘dog, 6-0 after a non-cover, 9-2 after a SU loss, 8-2 against AFC foes and 10-3 on grass.

The under is on runs of 4-1 with Pittsburgh facing a winning team and 5-1 with Tennessee meeting a winning unit. But the over is 10-3 in the Steelers’ last 13 games against the AFC and is on runs for the Titans of 5-1 at home and 7-3-1 in December. Finally, the over has cashed in five of the last six clashes between these rivals.

ATS ADVANTAGE: TENNESSEE

Miami (9-5, 6-8 ATS) at Kansas City (2-12, 8-6 ATS)

The Dolphins, who can claim the AFC East title by winning their last two games one year after going 1-15, travel to Arrowhead Stadium to face the lowly Chiefs.

Miami held off San Francisco 14-9 as a 5½-points home chalk, earning its third consecutive win but failing to cash for the fifth time in six games. QB Chad Pennington (12 of 19, 156 yards) squeezed two TD passes out of an otherwise sub-par day for the Dolphins, who were shut out in the second half and finished with a 318-248 deficit in total yards. Miami also lost the time of possession battle by more than 16 minutes (38:13-21:47).

Kansas City suffered a stunning late letdown in a 22-21 loss to San Diego catching 5½ points at home. The Chiefs led 21-3 early in the third quarter and were still up 21-10 late in the fourth quarter. Then they gave up two TDs in 39 seconds to lose it, allowing a Philip Rivers-to-Malcom Floyd TD pass with 1:19 remaining, failing to cover an onside kick, then giving up a Rivers-to-Vincent Jackson scoring toss. Kansas City failed to take advantage of a 3-1 turnover edge.

Kansas City is 2-1 SU and ATS in three meetings this decade with Miami, though the Dolphins won 13-10 as a one-point home chalk two years ago.

The Dolphins have covered in four of their last five on the highway, but they are on a bundle of ATS nosedives, including 4-17 as a non-division favorite, 5-22 overall as a favorite, 0-4 on grass, 1-4 after a SU win and 7-23-1 against losing teams. The Chiefs are a dismal 3-9 ATS in their last 12 games at Arrowhead, but are otherwise on positive ATS streaks of 6-2 overall, 4-0 in December, 5-1 against AFC foes, 4-1 after a spread-cover, 6-2 on grass and 6-2 getting points.

The under for Miami is on tears of 7-1 overall, 6-0 with the Dolphins a road chalk and 4-0 against losing teams, but the over for Kansas City is on runs of 5-1 at home, 6-1 with the Chiefs a home pup and 23-11 in December games.

ATS ADVANTAGE: NONE

Arizona (8-6 SU and ATS) at New England (9-5, 7-7 ATS)

The Patriots, needing a win to stay in playoff contention, step out of conference play when they host the NFC West champion Cardinals at Gillette Stadium.

New England trounced Oakland 49-26 as a 6½-point road chalk to halt a two-game ATS hiccup and give the Pats their third SU win in the last four weeks. QB Matt Cassel (18 of 30, 218 yards, 4 TDs, 1 INT) was efficient and extremely effective, helping New England take a 35-14 halftime lead. RB Sammy Morris (14 carries, 117 yards, 1 TD) had a big day, and Ellis Hobbs had a 95-yard kick-return TD, right after Oakland’s Justin Miller took a kick back 91 yards for a score.

Arizona got whipped by Minnesota 35-14 as a four-point home favorite, falling to 1-3 SU and ATS in its last four games, with the three losses all coming against playoff contenders by an average score of 40-21. QB Kurt Warner (29 of 45, 270 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT) didn’t get much mileage out of nearly four dozen throws, and the Cardinals defense gave up four TD passes to much-maligned Vikings QB Tarvaris Jackson and 165 rushing yards to star RB Adrian Peterson.

These teams have met just once this decade, with New England winning 23-12 as a 7½-point road favorite in 2004.

The Patriots are on ATS freefalls of 2-10 at home, 1-8 after a spread-cover and 3-11 after a SU win, but as a chalk of 3½ to 10 points, they are 5-1 ATS at home and 11-3 ATS overall. The Cardinals are on ATS skids of 1-5 as a road ‘dog, 3-9 on field turf and 9-20 in non-division roadies, but they are on ATS upticks of 13-5 after a SU loss and 9-4 against winning teams.

The over for New England is on runs of 5-0 overall, 7-3 in December and 16-7 after an ATS win, and the over for Arizona is on sprees of 26-10 overall, 12-2 in December, 14-3 against winning teams and 37-15 on the highway.

ATS ADVANTAGE: OVER

Cincinnati (2-11-1, 5-9 ATS) at Cleveland (4-10, 7-7 ATS)

Two teams quickly headed toward the off-season square off when the Browns host the division and in-state rival Bengals.

Cleveland lost to Philadelphia 30-10 Monday night as a 16-point road pup, falling to 0-4 SU (1-3 ATS) in its last four contests. Third-string QB Ken Dorsey (11 of 28, 156 yards, 2 INTs), thrust into the starting role due to injuries, led a sub-par offense that totaled just 196 yards and 22:05 in time of possession, while allowing 418 yards and 37:55 in time of possession.

Cincinnati upset freefalling Washington 20-13 as a 6½-point home ‘dog to end a three-game SU and ATS skid. QB Ryan Fitzpatrick (16 of 29, 209 yards, 1 TD) didn’t light it up, but he did lead a turnover-free offense, and the Bengals recovered two fumbles, including one from Redskins FB Mike Sellers at the goal line in the third quarter.

The SU winner is 10-1-1 ATS in Cleveland’s last 12 games and has cashed in eight of Cincy’s last nine games, with the lone exception coming in the Bengals’ tie with Philadelphia as a 9½-point home underdog.

In this AFC North rivalry, the SU winner is 9-1 ATS in the last 10 clashes, with each team grabbing the cash five times. Cleveland beat Cincinnati 20-12 as a one-point road pup in September.

The Browns are on a 2-5 ATS purge, but they are on ATS runs of 11-4 after a non-cover, 7-3 against losing teams and 9-4-1 at home. The Bengals have almost nothing but negative ATS trends, including 0-5 in division play, 0-4 on the road, 1-9 against the AFC, 2-9 after a spread-cover, 2-6 after a SU win and 3-9 against losing teams.

The under for Cleveland is on rolls of 13-6-1 overall, 6-0 against losing teams, 7-1-1 in December and 7-3 at home, and the under for Cincinnati is on stretches of 13-6-1 overall, 7-1 in December and 10-4-1 against AFC opponents. And in this rivalry, the total has gone low in seven of the last nine contests in Cleveland and five of the last seven clashes overall.

ATS ADVANTAGE: UNDER

Philadelphia (8-5-1, 9-5 ATS) at Washington (7-7, 5-8-1 ATS)

The Eagles, still alive in the hunt for a wild-card berth, go for their fourth consecutive victory when they head into FedEx Field for an NFC East clash with the Redskins.

Philadelphia rolled past Cleveland 30-10 as a heavy 16-point chalk on Monday night for its third straight win and cover. QB Donovan McNabb (26 of 35, 290 yards, 2 TDs, 1 INT) was solid enough to help the Eagles overcome a 3-2 turnover deficit, and the Philadelphia defense allowed just 196 total yards (compared to Philly’s 418) and 22:05 in time of possession.

Washington was upset at Cincinnati 20-13 as a 6½-point road favorite and is now on an 0-3 SU and ATS skid, falling out of playoff contention in the process. QB Jason Campbell (17 of 28, 167 yards, 1 TD) had a turnover-free day, but his teammates lost two fumbles, including FB Mike Sellers giving it away at the goal line in the third quarter.

The SU winner is 19-1-1 ATS in Washington’s last 21 games (12-1-1 ATS this season) and has cashed in 11 of the Eagles’ last 12 games – with the lone exception coming in Philly’s 13-13 tie at Cincinnati as a 9½-point favorite.

Washington is 2-1 SU and ATS in the last three meetings in this rivalry, including a 23-17 road win getting 6½ points in October. The Redskins are 5-2-1 ATS in the last eight clashes, but Philadelphia is on a 9-3-1 ATS run in Washington, and the road team is 4-1-1 ATS in the last six contests.

The Eagles are on positive pointspread streaks of 10-3 on the highway, 23-9 in road division games, 4-1 in December, 4-1 after a spread-cover, 4-1 after a SU win and 5-2 with the Eagles favored. On the flip side, the Redskins are 1-6 SU and ATS in their last six home division games, and they are on further ATS nosedives of 0-5-1 overall, 0-5 at FedEx Field, 0-4-1 after a SU loss, 0-4 against winning teams and 5-14 at home versus teams with a winning road record.

The under for Philadelphia is on runs of 4-1-1 in December and 39-15-5 with the Eagles favored, and the under for Washington is on sprees of 10-1-1 overall, 6-0 at home, 4-0 against winning teams, 6-1 inside the division and 4-1 in December. Furthermore, in this rivalry, the under has hit in seven of the last 10 meetings overall and is 4-1-2 in the last seven contests at Washington.

ATS ADVANTAGE: PHILADELPHIA and UNDER

San Francisco (5-9, 7-7 ATS) at St. Louis (2-12, 4-10 ATS)

The 49ers make their annual trip to the Edward Jones Dome to face the Rams in a matchup of two NFC West rivals playing out the string.

San Francisco had its two-game winning streak end in a 14-9 loss to Miami, but the Niners got the money as a 5½-point road ‘dog to cash for the third straight week. QB Shaun Hill (30 of 46, 233 yards, 0 TDs, 0 INTs) had a lackluster outing, and although the 49ers won the time of possession battle by a mile (38:13-21:47), they couldn’t find the end zone and lost despite holding the Dolphins scoreless in the second half.

The SU winner is now 23-2 ATS in San Fran’s last 25 games (12-2 ATS this year).

St. Louis lost to Seattle 23-20 as a one-point home pup for its eighth consecutive SU setback (2-6 ATS). QB Marc Bulger (19 of 32, 207 yards, 1 TD, 0 INTs) had a mediocre effort, and in an otherwise evenly played game, the Rams got outscored 10-3 in the fourth quarter, losing on Olindo Mare’s 27-yard field goal as time expired.

San Francisco is on a 7-1 ATS run (5-3 SU) in the last eight clashes in this rivalry, including a 35-16 home rout as a seven-point chalk last month. The 49ers are 4-0 ATS in the last four contests in St. Louis.

The 49ers are on ATS dips of 8-18-1 as a favorite and 0-4-1 as a road chalk, but they are on pointspread rolls of 5-1 overall, 7-1 on turf and 4-1 in December. The Rams are on a flurry of ATS declines, including 1-6 overall, 0-5 in December, 2-7 at home, 7-19 inside the division, 16-37 after a SU loss and 21-48-1 after a pointspread defeat.

The over for San Francisco is on runs of 4-0 in division play and 9-2 with the Niners favored, but the under is 5-1 in San Fran’s last six December starts. The under for St. Louis is on a 5-2-1 stretch, but the over is on streaks of 10-3-1 following a non-cover and 9-3-1 in December. Finally, the total has gone low in four of the last five contests between these rivals.

ATS ADVANTAGE: NONE

Atlanta (9-5, 8-6 ATS) at Minnesota (9-5, 6-8 ATS)

Two teams looking to bolster their playoff stock square off when the Falcons invade the Metrodome for a key NFC contest against the Vikings, who can clinch the NFC North with a win.

Atlanta held off Tampa Bay 13-10 in overtime, but failed to cover as a 5½-points home favorite for its second straight ATS setback. It was the first time that the SU winner has failed to cover in the Falcons’ 14 games this season, though the SU winner remains 21-2 ATS in Atlanta’s last 23 starts.

Falcons QB Matt Ryan (15 of 23, 206 yards, 0 TDs) threw two INTs and fumbled twice against Tampa, though the Falcons recovered both times. He led Atlanta to a 10-0 first quarter lead, but the Falcons didn’t score again until Jason Elam booted the winning 34-yard-field goal 11 minutes into the extra session. RB Michael Turner went off for 152 yards and a TD on 32 carries.

Minnesota smacked Arizona 35-14 as a four-point road pup for its fourth straight victory (3-1 ATS). QB Tarvaris Jackson (11 of 17, 163 yards, 4 TDs, 0 INTs) had a stunningly good day subbing for the injured Gus Frerotte, helping the Vikes to a 28-0 halftime lead, and RB Adrian Peterson was typically solid, finishing with 165 yards on 28 carries. Frerotte is now healthy, but Jackson will get the start against Atlanta.

The SU winner is 4-0 ATS in the last four clashes between these teams, with the favorite cashing in all four contests. Most recently, Minnesota rolled 24-7 at home as a three-point chalk in the 2007 season opener.

The Falcons are on ATS rolls of 12-6 in non-division road games and 5-1 after a non-cover, but they’ve dropped seven straight ATS decisions on turf and are on further ATS skids of 2-5 in December and 3-7 against winning teams. The Vikings are on a 5-2 ATS run versus winning teams, but otherwise are in pointspread ruts of 1-5 after a spread-cover, 1-4 in December, 2-8 after a SU win and 2-5 inside the conference.

The under is 36-15-1 in Atlanta’s last 52 roadies and 4-1 in its last five games against winning teams, but the over for the Falcons is on stretches of 6-1 in December and 8-2 after a non-cover. Furthermore, the over for Minnesota is on runs of 6-2 overall, 5-2 against winning teams and 9-4 at home.

ATS ADVANTAGE: ATLANTA

New Orleans (7-7, 9-4-1 ATS) at Detroit (0-14, 6-8 ATS)

The Lions, who get two more tries to avoid becoming the NFL’s first 0-16 team, take on the Saints in an otherwise meaningless game at Ford Field.

Detroit gave Indianapolis a battle last week before succumbing 31-21 on the road. Although the Lions did cover easily as a huge 16½-point pup, they’re still just 1-21 SU and 7-15 ATS in their last 22 games. QB Dan Orlovsky (23 of 34, 233 yards, 1 TD) had a steady game, and though both teams had two turnovers, Detroit’s second one proved the most costly, with RB Chad Simpson fumbling at the Lions’ 14-yard line with 1:16 remaining. Indy quickly kicked a field goal to make it a two-score game.

New Orleans was officially eliminated from the playoffs with its 27-24 overtime loss at Chicago last Thursday, getting a push as a three-point road ‘dog to halt a four-game ATS run (3-1 SU). QB Drew Brees (24 of 43, 232 yards, 2 TDs, 2 INTs) rallied the Saints from a 21-7 halftime deficit, hitting Marques Colston with an 11-yard TD pass to put New Orleans up 24-21 late. But Bears kicker Robbie Gould tied it with a 28-yard field goal at the end of regulation, then won it with a 35-yard boot in overtime.

Detroit is 3-0 SU and ATS against New Orleans this decade, including a 13-12 road win getting 2½ points in 2005, and the underdog in this rivalry is on a 4-0 ATS uptick.

The Saints are on ATS runs of 4-0-1 overall, 7-0 after a SU loss, 4-0 as a chalk, 7-1 on the road against teams with a losing home mark and 4-1 as a road favorite. The Lions, meanwhile, are on pointspread slides of 1-7 at home, 2-6 after a spread-cover, 7-19 as a dog of 3½ to 10 points and 5-11 against the NFC.

The over for New Orleans is on streaks of 14-4-1 overall, 8-0 in December, 13-3-1 on field turf and 20-7-1 against the NFC, and the over for Detroit is on rolls of 17-5-1 overall, 8-1 in December, 8-2-1 on field turf and 7-2-1 at home.

ATS ADVANTAGE: NEW ORLEANS and OVER

N.Y. Jets (9-5, 7-7 ATS) at Seattle (3-11, 6-7-1 ATS)

The Jets, currently holding the tiebreaker edge in the three-team logjam atop the AFC East, make a cross-country trek for the second time in three weeks when they face the Seahawks at Qwest Field.

New York outlasted Buffalo 31-27, winning when defensive end Shaun Ellis returned a fumble for a touchdown late in the fourth quarter, but the Jets failed to cash as a nine-point home chalk for their third straight ATS setback. QB Brett Favre (17 of 30, 207 yards, 1 TD, 2 INTs) was less than sterling, and the Jets’ defense couldn’t stop RB Marshawn Lyncy (21 carries, 127 yards) as the Bills finished with an 11-minute time-of-possession edge. But the Jets picked off J.P. Losman three times and forced the Losman fumble that led to Ellis’ game-winning TD.

Seattle beat St. Louis 23-20 as a one-point road favorite, snapping a six-game SU losing streak and covering for the second straight week. The Seahawks rallied from a 17-7 halftime deficit, with backup QB Seneca Wallace (15 of 25, 226 yards, 0 TDs, 0 INTs) leading two late-fourth-quarter scoring drives. Seattle won it on Olindo Mare’s 27-yard field goal as time expired.

These squads have met just twice this decade, with New York going 2-0 SU and ATS, though both games were at the Meadowlands. Most recently, New York rolled 37-14 as a seven-point chalk in 2004.

The Jets are in ATS funks of 2-6 on the road against the NFC, 1-5 as a favorite, 1-4 as a non-division chalk, 1-4 laying points on the road and 1-4 against losing teams. The Seahawks, despite their wretched SU record, are on ATS upticks of 12-5 hosting AFC teams, 5-2 against teams from the Eastern Time Zone, 7-1-2 at home against teams with a winning road record and 7-2 in December.

The over for New York is on runs of 6-1-1 overall, 4-0 after a SU win and 4-1 with the Jets favored, but Seattle sports under streaks of 5-1-1 overall, 5-1 against winning teams and 5-1 as an underdog.

ATS ADVANTAGE: SEATTLE

Houston (7-7 SU and ATS) at Oakland (3-11, 5-9 ATS)

The surging Texans trek to the West Coast to take on the reeling Raiders at McAfee Coliseum.

Houston knocked off AFC-leading Tennessee 13-12 as a three-point home pup for its fourth consecutive SU victory and fifth straight ATS conquest. QB Matt Schaub (23 of 39, 284 yards, 1 TD, 0 INTs) had a solid day, and though he lost a fumble, that was the Texans’ lone turnover. RB Steve Slaton (24 carries, 100 yards) was again solid as Houston outgained Tennessee 375-281 and had a nearly 13-minute bulge in time of possession (36:22-23:38).

Oakland got thumped by New England 49-26 as a 6½-point home ‘dog for its third consecutive SU and ATS loss. QB JaMarcus Russell (17 of 32, 242 yards, 2 TDs, 1 INT) had a decent game by his standards, but the Raiders gave up 35 first-half points and allowed a whopping 487 total yards for the game, while gaining 334.

These teams have met in three of the past four seasons, with Houston going 3-0 SU and ATS, including a 24-17 road victory last year as a three-point pup.

Along with their current 5-0 pointspread run, the Texans are on ATS hot streaks of 4-0 on grass, 4-0 in December, 4-1 against losing teams, 4-1 after a SU win, 4-1 on the highway and 5-2 coming off a division game. The Raiders are on a 6-21 ATS freefall at home and are on further pointspread skids of 17-35 overall, 22-47-1 after a SU loss, 18-41-1 after a non-cover, 2-5 as an underdog, 7-20 as a home pup and 14-37 in December.

The under for Houston is on runs of 4-0 overall and 4-1 against losing teams, but the over has cashed in seven of the Texans’ last nine roadies. The under for Oakland is on stretches of 5-1-1 overall, 5-1-1 in December games, 6-1-1 after a SU loss and 4-1 at home.

ATS ADVANTAGE: HOUSTON

Buffalo (6-8 SU and ATS) at Denver (8-6, 4-9-1 ATS)

The Broncos hope to wrap up the weak AFC West when they welcome the Bills to Invesco Field at Mile High.

Denver got dumped at Carolina 30-10 catching seven points for its third ATS setback in the last four games (2-2 SU). QB Jay Cutler (21 of 33, 172 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT) had a dismal day as the Broncos finished with 279 total yards, while allowing 400 to the Panthers (147 rushing yards) and letting WR Steve Smith go off for 165 yards and a TD on nine catches.

Buffalo had the Jets on the ropes last Sunday before a stunning late miscue in losing 31-27, but the Bills covered as a healthy nine-point ‘dog to end a two-game ATS skid. QB J.P. Losman (24 of 39, 148 yards) had all of Buffalo’s turnovers, throwing three INTs and losing a fumble in the final two minutes that was returned for the winning score. First-string QB Trent Edwards, out the last two weeks with an injury, is listed as probable today.

Denver has won three meetings with Buffalo this decade, but the Bills went 2-1 ATS, including covering in last year’s season-opening 15-14 home loss as a three-point pup.

The Broncos carry nothing but negative ATS trends, and loads of them, including 10-27-1 overall, 1-6-1 against losing teams, 1-4 in December, 2-15 as a home chalk, 7-19-1 overall at home and 6-14 outside the division. Likewise, the Bills are on ATS backslides of 2-6 overall, 0-4 after an ATS win, 1-7 against winning teams, 6-10 as a non-division road ‘dog and 2-5 against the AFC.

The under for Denver is on tears of 4-1 overall, 5-0 at home, 4-0-1 in December and 4-1 against losing teams, and the under is 6-2 in Buffalo’s last eight games getting points. But the over is 14-6 in the Bills’ last 20 December starts and 14-6-1 in the Broncos’ last 21 games against AFC foes.

ATS ADVANTAGE: NONE

San Diego (6-8, 5-8-1 ATS) at Tampa Bay (9-5, 8-6 ATS)

The Chargers, clinging to faint hopes of winning the AFC West, go cross-country to Raymond James Stadium to meet the Buccaneers, who are trying to stay in the NFC playoff picture.

San Diego pulled out a miraculous 22-21 victory at Kansas City last week, recovering from a 21-3 third-quarter deficit but failing to cover as a six-point road chalk. QB Philip Rivers (34 of 48, 346 yards, 2 TDs, 1 INT, 1 lost fumble) hit Malcolm Floyd with a 4-yard scoring pass with 1:19 remaining, the Chargers recovered the ensuing onside kick, and Rivers found Vincent Jackson for the game-winning 10-yard score with 40 seconds left.

Tampa Bay lost to Atlanta 13-10 in overtime for its second straight defeat, but the Bucs covered as a 5½-point road underdog to end a two-game ATS skid. QB Brian Griese (26 of 37, 269 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT), subbing for an injured Jeff Garcia (calf), rallied Tampa from a 10-0 first-quarter deficit, but the Buccaneers ultimately failed to take advantage of a 3-1 turnover edge. Garcia is expected back under center today.

These teams have met just once this decade, with San Diego winning 31-24 as a 4½-point home chalk in 2004.

The Chargers are on ATS declines of 2-6 overall, 1-4 in roadies and 2-5 on grass, but they still sport positive ATS trends of 6-1 in December, 13-4-3 as a road pup and 10-4 after a SU win. The Buccaneers are on ATS upticks of 5-2 after a spread-cover, 7-3 as a home chalk and 9-4 after a SU loss.

The under for San Diego is on stretches of 4-1-1 overall and 5-0 against winning teams, and the under for Tampa Bay is on rolls of 7-3 overall, 4-0 at home and 37-17 with the Bucs a home favorite.

ATS ADVANTAGE: TAMPA BAY and UNDER

Carolina (11-3, 8-4-2 ATS) at N.Y. Giants (11-3, 10-4 ATS)

The red-hot Panthers roll into the Meadowlands to face the defending Super Bowl champion Giants in the prime-time slot, with home-field advantage for the NFC playoffs at stake.

Carolina dumped Denver 30-10 as a seven-point home favorite, moving to 7-1 SU in its last eight games (5-3 ATS). QB Jake Delhomme (17 of 26, 253 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT) leaned heavily on star wideout Steve Smith (9 catches, 165 yards, 1 TD), and the Panthers racked up 147 rushing yards in outgaining the Broncos, 400-279. Carolina also won the turnover battle, 2-1.

New York looked lethargic in a 20-8 loss to Dallas as a three-point road ‘dog, suffering its second consecutive SU and ATS loss after a 7-0 SU and ATS surge. QB Eli Manning (18 of 35, 191 yards) threw two INTs and was sacked eight times as the Giants managed just 218 total yards. New York allowed 321 yards and failed to force any turnovers.

Carolina is 2-1 SU and ATS in three clashes with New York this decade, but the Giants took the most recent meeting, winning 27-13 in 2006 as a three-point road favorite.

The Panthers are on ATS surges of 11-5-1 overall, 5-0 in December and 12-4-2 as a road pup of three points or less, but they are also 2-6 ATS in their last eight as a road underdog of any price. The Giants, despite their struggles the last two weeks, remain on positive ATS streaks of 24-8 overall, 6-1 after a SU loss, 5-1 after a non-cover, 5-1 as a favorite, 14-3 against winning teams, 4-1 at home and 6-2 in non-division home games.

The over for Carolina is on tears of 4-1 overall, 5-0 against the NFC and 9-4 in December games, and the over is 7-3 in New York’s last 10 games as a favorite of three points or less. However, the under for New York is on runs of 6-1 after a SU loss and 5-2 in December.

ATS ADVANTAGE: N.Y. GIANTS

NEW ORLEANS BOWL

Troy (8-4, 7-4 ATS) vs. Southern Miss (6-6, 7-5 ATS) (at New Orleans)

Southern Miss closed the regular season on a four-game winning streak to become bowl-eligible and now will take on Sun Belt Conference champ Troy in the New Orleans Bowl inside the Superdome.

The Golden Eagles found themselves sitting at 2-6 (3-5 ATS) and losers of five straight as the calendar flipped to November, when they took flight by winning and covering their final four games to get to the postseason, including a 28-12 season-ending win at SMU as a 14½-point chalk. Southern Miss allowed just 35 total points over its final five games after giving up 35.8 per contest during the five-game losing streak.

Eagles RB Damion Fletcher was 11th in the nation with 1,586 rushing yards, and he averaged six yards per carry, good for second in Conference USA.

Troy won the Sun Belt Conference outright for the first time in school history and finished the season by winning six of eight (5-3 ATS), including a 35-9 victory over Arkansas State on Dec. 6 as a 13-point favorite. The Trojans, who outscored their opponents 83-12 in their final two contests, are in the third bowl game in the last five years. Troy’s most memorable game was on Nov. 15 when it went to LSU and jumped out to a 31-3 lead but fell apart in the final 16 minutes, allowing 37 points and falling 40-31 to the then-No. 19 Tigers, easily cashing as a 16-point underdog.

These teams haven’t met since 1977, but Southern Miss owns a 5-1 series edge.

Troy is on positive ATS streaks of 20-8 overall, 11-5 as a favorite, 12-4 after a straight-up win and 5-1 on turf. Southern Miss is just 3-9 ATS in its last 12 as a ‘dog, but the Eagles are on positive ATS runs of 4-1 in non-conference games, 5-1 following a straight-up win and 6-2 against teams from the Sun Belt Conference.

For the Trojans, the over is 7-2 in their last nine non-conference games, but the under is 4-1 in their last five as a favorite and 5-1 in their last six on artificial turf. Meanwhile, Southern Miss is in the midst of “under” streaks of 4-0-1 in bowl games, 8-1 after a spread-cover, 4-1 as an underdog and 6-1 against teams with a winning record.

ATS ADVANTAGE: TROY

Coaching Tendencies
By Marc Lawrence

With the NFL season approaching its stretch run for the 2008 season, let's examine the strengths and weaknesses head coaches have displayed throughout their NFL career during the final four games of the season. By becoming aware of the good, bad and ugly roles we can put ourselves into position to make a key score or two between now and the start of the playoffs.

Positive trends for Week 16:

Jacksonville - Jack Del Rio is 8-4 in home games
Green Bay - Mike McCarthy is 2-0 as an underdog
Philadelphia - Andy Reid is 14-7 in road games
Seattle - Mike Holmgren is 13-6 as an underdog

Negative trends for Week 16:

Indianapolis - Tony Dungy is 7-16 in road games
Minnesota - Brad Childeress is 0-4 in home games
St. Louis - Jim Haslett is 4-10 in home games
N.Y. Jets - Eric Mangini is 1-3 as a favorite

New Orleans Bowl
By Chris David

The college football bowl season continues Sunday, when Southern Mississippi (6-6 straight up, 7-5 against the spread) battles Troy (8-4 SU, 7-4 ATS) in the New Orleans Bowl at the Superdome. Kickoff for this game is set at 8:15 p.m. EDT, with ESPN providing national coverage.

The Trojans earned a trip to the Big Easy by winning the Sun Belt Conference, while the Golden Eagles earned an at-large berth from Conference USA.

Southern Miss and Troy are both familiar with the New Orleans Bowl and the two schools have had success in their recent trips to Louisiana as well. The Trojans dominated Rice 41-17 for the school’s first bowl victory in 2006, while the Golden Eagles captured a pair of victories in 2005 and 2004.

Troy opened up as a five-point favorite at Brobury Sports, while the total was set at 55. The numbers haven’t moved much on this matchup and gamblers should be aware of the past history of the New Orleans Bowl.

If you’re looking for a tight contest, this might not be the game you’re looking for. Six of the seven battles in the New Orleans Bowl have been decided by double digits. Since this game started pitting schools from CUSA and the Sun Belt together, the two conferences have gone 3-3 in the six meetings.

The Sun Belt has captured the last two contests and the ‘over’ has cashed in both games as well. Despite the two recent shootouts, the ‘under’ owns a 4-3 mark in the seven New Orleans bowls.

Fast forward to this year’s game and it appears that handicappers can make a case for both teams.

Troy started the year 2-0 before losing to Ohio State (28-10) and Oklahoma State (55-24), which was expected. The school bounced back by winning six of its final eight games and the two losses came by a combined 10 points.

The Trojans’ success comes from their offense, which averaged 33 points per game this year. Quarterback Levi Brown has only played in nine games, but he’s completed 62 percent of his passes for 1,775 yards and 14 TDs. The Trojans have 10 players that have caught 10 passes or more but Brown’s favorite target is Jerrel Jernigan (68 catches, 803 yards, 5 TDs). Complimenting the aerial assault is running back DuJuan Harris, who has posted 1,025 yards and 11 touchdowns.

Southern Miss has a solid offense (30.7 PPG) too, but it uses the ground game to open up the pass. Running back Damion Fletcher racked up 1,235 yards on the season to go with nine scores, while quarterback Austin Davis (471 yards, 9 TDs) has the ability to run as well. Davis (57.4%) hasn’t been that accurate when tossing the ball, but he has passed for 2,852 yards and 21 TDs. Similar to the Trojans, the Golden Eagles have a great group of wide receivers. DeAndre Brown (66 catches, 12 TDs) is the team’s big playmaker to watch on the outside.

Defensively, handicappers will have to look beyond the numbers for this matchup. Troy has held opponents to 319 YPG and 20.6 PPG, but that’s against Sun Belt competition that isn’t known for offensive fireworks. Southern Miss has been a tad weaker, surrendering 369 YPG and 23.8 PPG. The Golden Eagles have struggled against the pass (223 YPG), giving up 24 touchdowns through the air.

The unit has improved late in the season, especially in their last four games. The team has given up 35 points over this stretch, which has translated into a 4-0 run both SU and ATS to close the year.

Troy has gone 3-4 SU and 5-2 ATS on the road this year, while Southern Miss went 3-3 SU and 4-2 ATS. The Trojans have seen the ‘under’ go 7-4 on the season. The Golden Eagles have watched the total remain steady at 6-6.

2-Minute Handicap Notes – provided by Marc Lawrence
(For all of his bowl trends, check out his Playbook)

Troy

# Sun Belt Bowl teams are 3-0 SU and ATS off back-to-back SU and ATS wins
# Favorite is 0-2 SU and ATS in Trojans’ bowl games
# Trojans 20-2 ‘In The Stats’ L22G (11-1 TY)

Southern Miss

# 4-9 ATS last 13 games as Bowlers
# C-USA Bowlers are 10-22 ATS vs. opp off SU win
# 3-14 ATS when USM off a SU and ATS win
# 5-29 ‘In The Stats’ vs Bowlers the last six years

vegasinsider.com

What bettors need to know: New Orleans Bowl
By TED SEVRANSKY

Troy Trojans vs. Southern Mississippi Golden Eagles (+4.5, 54.5)

Head-to-head

These two teams have met seven times before with Southern Miss earning the victory on six of those occasions. The one-sided nature of the series is no surprise. Troy was a Division-II school making the transition first to 1-AA; then 1-A in a 13-year span. The Trojans didn’t play their first lined game until 2001. All seven previous meetings between these two squads came before Troy had moved up to 1-A status.

Been here before

Troy’s last bowl appearance was right here in the New Orleans Bowl back in 2006 when they dismantled Rice 41-17, earning the Sun Belt Conference’s first bowl win since North Texas upset Cincinnati in the 2002 New Orleans Bowl.

Southern Miss has great familiarity with this venue as well. The Golden Eagles notched a pair of wins in there in 2004, beating North Texas 31-10 as 5.5 point favorites, and in 2005 when they beat Arkansas State 31-19 but failed to cover as 17-point chalk. After winning three straight bowl games, Southern Miss lost by ten to Cincinnati in the Papa John’s Bowl last year but still covered the number as an eleven point underdog. The Golden Eagles are 0-3 SU, 1-2 ATS as an underdog in bowl games this decade.

Troy was shut out of a bowl game last year despite its 8-4 record. This will be the third bowl game in the history of the program, all coming in the last five years. Southern Miss has been a consistent bowl team ever since Brett Favre was behind center, earning its eleventh bowl game in the last twelve years with a 6-6 mark in 2008.

Stepping up in class

Troy carried a chip on its shoulder all year long from the bowl snub last season, particularly in near upsets on the road at Ohio State and LSU as a significant underdog. The Trojans were in position to win at the start of the fourth quarter in both games before finally capturing the attention of the home favorites, covering the spread in defeat with ease each time. The Trojans also dominated the Sun Belt Conference’s lone other bowl entrant, Florida Atlantic, in a 30-17 road win and cover against the Owls.

Southern Miss suffered a five game mid-season losing streak before coming on strong in November. It lost to bowl bound Memphis, Rice and Boise State during that mid-season skid, failing to cover any of those pointspreads in defeat. The Golden Eagles covered the spread in a loss at Auburn but the two touchdown defeat wasn’t pretty for either team. Larry Fedora’s squad finally got a win and cover against a bowl-bound foe at home versus East Carolina in their next to last game.

Protecting the quarterback

Troy runs a spread offense. Ten different receivers caught at least ten passes this year and eleven receivers caught at least one touchdown pass. Even a mid-season quarterback change following a season-ending injury to starter Jami Hampton didn’t phase this offense. Backup Levi Brown completed more than 61 percent of his passes with a 14-3 touchdown-to-interception ratio.

The key to Troy’s offensive success was the protection from its offensive line. Troy threw 479 passes this year but allowed only nine sacks, third best in all of college football. Southern Miss has an undersized defensive front and didn’t put much pressure on the quarterback, finishing 104th in the nation in sacks. Brown will have ample time to find open receivers in the spread formation Sunday.

ATS results

Southern Miss is one of those teams where the SU result is all you’ve needed to handicap this year. The Golden Eagles are 6-0 ATS in their six wins and 1-5 ATS in their six losses. They enter their bowl game on a four game SU and ATS winning streak. Troy failed to cover as a double-digit favorite on four separate occasions this season but were outstanding as a single-digit favorite and as an underdog leading to a 7-4 ATS mark.

Line moves

The early money has come in on Troy, driving the Trojans from -3 to -4.5, and that could continue to rise before kickoff. There is also money on the under with the opener of 56 bet down to 55 points.

What bettors need to know: Panthers at Giants
By T.O. WHENHAM

Carolina Panthers at New York Giants (-3, 37.5)

Line Movement

The line opened at the key number of three, giving the Giants no edge beyond their home field. It hasn't moved from that number and it doesn't look that will change. Action is evenly split between the two teams, with a very slight edge in bets to Carolina.

Total

The total opened at 40 and has since dropped to as low as 37, with 37.5 being the most common number. The Giants were a reliable over team earlier in the season, but they have gone under in each of their last three games. Carolina went under last week against Denver, but had previously gone over in four in a row and five of six. The last two games between these teams, and five of the last six, have gone over.

Weather

It is not going to be a pleasant evening. Snow will fall all weekend in New York. It should stop by game time, but the temperature will dip below 20 degrees and wind will be prominent than usual in the Meadowlands. The weather is an obvious culprit for the drop of the total.

High Stakes

The stakes are incredibly high for both sides in this contest. The winner clinches home-field advantage throughout the NFC playoffs. If the Giants lose and the Vikings win on Sunday, then New York has to beat Minnesota in week 17 to get a bye. If the Panthers lose their last two games and Dallas, Tampa Bay and Atlanta all win out - the Panthers wouldn't even make the playoffs.

The Plaxico Effect

It turns out Plaxico Burress not only shoot himself, but also his team in the leg. In the two games since Burress' suspension, the Giants offense has been almost non-existent. The G-Men have averaged just 11 points per game, far below the 29 they were averaging before the incident. The Giants won and covered the two games that Burress missed earlier due to injuries, as well as the one that he dressed for but didn't make any catches. That means that either the whole controversy has been a distraction for the team, or the timing is just a coincidence.

QB vs. QB

Eli Manning is a Pro Bowler. Jake Delhomme is not. But a comparison of the two players shows that Delhomme measures up just fine. Manning has just one QB rating over 100 in his last 10 games while Delhomme has four. Manning has exceeded 200 yards passing twice over that stretch and Delhomme has done it five times. Delhomme is averaging a robust 9.3 yards per attempt over his last four games. Manning is averaging just 6.6.

Running Strong

The Giants success this season is largely because of their power running game. But over the last four games they have averaged less than 90 yards per game, netting just 3.4 yards per carry. That's far below their averages of 148.7 and 4.8. The injuries to RB Brandon Jacobs right tackle Kareem McKenzie has played a factor in the drop off.

Carolina DT Ma'ake Kemoeatu, the Panthers' best run stopper, hasn't been practicing this week, and is likely to be out with an ankle injury. This could help jump start the ground game for New York.

Carolina is running the ball better than it has in years. RBs DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart have helped the Panthers post the league’s fourth best rushing attack with 146.1 yards per game.

The two backs should be excited about the opportunity to run wild again this week. The Giants struggled in the last two games stopping Philly’s Brian Westbrook and Cowboy rookie tailback Tashard Choice.

Where the action is: Sunday's key line moves
By PETER CHILDS

Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Tennessee Titans

Line/Total: Titans opened as 1-point favorite, but we quickly moved to Steelers -1 when it was confirmed that both Albert Haynesworth and Kyle Vanden Bosch wouldn't play. Moving from Titans -1 to Steelers -1 wasn’t enough as bettors have pounded the Steelers all week. We’re dealing the Steelers -2.5 but we might be forced to go to 3 if we're going to get any buy back on the Titans.

Matchup of the Game: Steelers' struggling running game vs. the Titans depleted defensive line. Steelers have struggled getting their running game going this year, ranking 23rd in the NFL rushing the ball. But RB Willie Parker has been getting healthier and catches a break taking on a Titans team missing their best two defensive lineman, Haynesworth and Vanden Bosch.

Key Injuries:

Steelers – DE Brett Keisel upgraded to Probable. OT Marvel Smith is Questionable.

Titans – RB Quinton Ganther upgraded to Probable. DE Kyle Vanden Bosch and DT Albert Haynesworth are both out for this game.

Weather: Game-time temperature in the low 30s with some light snow showers expected.

Arizona Cardinals vs. New England Patriots

Line/Total: Patriots opened 8-point favorites with a total of 44. There’s been zero movement on the spread or total and we're currently dealing our opening numbers. We’re taking on more Patriot money at this time, but we’re very comfortable with where the early action is.

Matchup of the Game: The entire Cardinals team vs the New England elements. It's brutally cold in New England this time of year. How will the warm-weather Cardinals team - that relies heavily on their passing game - react to the cold and windy conditions of Foxborough.

Key Injuries:

Cardinals – WR Anquan Boldin has been downgraded to Doubtful. DE Travis LaBoy expected to miss. RB JJ Arrington, WR Early Doucet, LB Pago Togafau are all listed Questionable.

Patriots – DL Ty Warren and LB Gary Guyton both listed Questionable. FS james Sanders and OT Matt Light have both been downgraded to Questionable.

Weather: Its going to be windy and snowy on a cold miserable day in Foxboro. Game time temperature in the low 20s with expected snow and wind.

Atlanta Falcons vs. Minnesota Vikings

Line/Total: We opened the Vikings -3 -120 with a total of 44 points. We’ve seen great two way action on the spread, I doubt we’ll need to make any moves there. As for the total, we’re currently dealing 43 due to sharp action on the under. Both teams love running the ball; Falcons are ranked first in the NFL and the Vikings not far behind rank 3rd rushing the ball.

Matchup of the Game: RB Michael Turner vs RB Adrian Peterson. This game matches up the NFL’s top two running backs. Turner ranks second with a total of 1421 yards, averaging 101.5 rushing yards a game. Peterson ranks first with 1581 yards and averaging 113 yards a game.

Key Injuries:

Falcons – WR Laurent Robinson and CB David Irons are on Injury Reserve.

Vikings – DT Pat Williams is OUT. RB Adrian Peterson and DE Jared Allen are Probable. QB Tarvaris Jackson expected to start. TE Garrett Mills upgraded to Probable. WR Darius Reynaud and OT Artis Hicks are both Doubtful.

Weather: Metrodome, no weather.

Carolina Panthers vs. New York Giants

Line/Total: Giants opened 3 -120 with a total of 40 points. We moved off the number 3 Saturday afternoon because of steady Giant action and we feel we’ll book more two way action if we use 3.5 flat. We’ve seen a big move on the total due to inclement weather hitting the east coast. We’re currently dealing 37 and that move is all base on speculation for brutal weather.

Matchup of the Game: Panthers red hot fourth ranked Rushing Offense vs the Giants fourth ranked Rushing Defense. Panthers are averaging 177 rushing yards a game in their last 4 games.

Key Injuries:

Panthers - OG Keydrick Vincent on Injury Reserve. LB Adam Seward and LB Jon Beason were both upgraded to Probable. DE Hilee Taylor downgraded to Doubtful. DT Ma’ake Kemoeatu is Questionable.

Giants – RB Brandon Jacobs missed last game but has been upgraded to Probable. S Kenny Philips, RB Derrick Ward, WR Domenik Hixon, DT Fred Robbins, OG Rich Seubert and OT Kareem McKenzie have all been upgraded to Probable. LB Jonathan Goff and RB Reuben Droughns are on the Injury Reserve. LB Gerris Wilkinson is Doubtful. WR Sinorice Moss is Questionable.

Weather: Game-time temperature in the low 20s with heavy winds.