NFL Football News and Notes Sunday 12/13

NFL Week 14 NFL

Broncos (8-4) @ Colts (12-0)-- Unbeaten Indy is just 2-4 as home favorite so far in '09, with home wins by 2-17-4-3-1-10 points. Broncos scored 70 points in last two games; they're 5-3 vs spread as underdog- all four of their losses are by 10+ points. Way to beat Indy is to possess ball, move chains, keep Colts offense off field; Denver ran ball for average of 154.5 ypg in last four weeks. Denver scored 19 points in only two games on artificial turf this year. Under is 9-3 in Denver games. AFC West road dogs are 5-7 vs spread in non-division games; AFC South home favorites are 4-7.

Bengals (9-3) @ Vikings (10-2)-- Cincy defense forced 13 3/outs in last four games on 45 drives; in their last two games, Bengal opponents started 11 of 22 drives 80+ yards from goal, and they didn't score a point on any of those 11 drives. Bengals are 5-0 vs spread as an underdog in '09. Minnesota is 3-2-1 as home favorite, winning home games by 3-7-2-17-26-16 points- they have 19 TDs on last 54 drives at home. AFC North road dogs are 5-4 vs spread. NFC North home favorites are 3-8. Last four Viking games, four of last five Bengal games stayed under total.

Jets (6-6) @ Buccaneers (1-11)-- Huge trap game for chirpy Jets; Sanchez is expected to go (partially torn knee ligament). Jersey won last couple games, giving up one TD on 23 drives- they're 2-3 in true road games, and 0-5 when they allow more than 17 points (6-1 when they don't). Buccaneers lost last four games; they're 1-4 at home, with losses by 13-24-7-31 points. Jets have three TDs on last 34 drives, but have TDs on defense, special teams in two of last three games. AFC East favorites are 8-4 vs spread. NFC South underdogs are 6-11 vs spread, 1-5 at home. Last three Tampa games stayed under.

Bills (4-8) @ Chiefs (3-9)-- Buffalo lost four of last five games, but covered three of last four on road; they had three extra days to rest/prep for this after Thursday night loss last week. Chiefs lost last two games 43-14/44-13, giving up 11 TDs on last 36 drives- they failed to cover previous game as a favorite, losing to Oakland in Week 2. Buffalo gave up 406 rushing yards last couple of games, but held last three foes under 20 pts. AFC East underdogs are 5-9 vs spread, 5-5 away from home. AFC West favorites are 3-3, 3-1 at home. Six of last eight Buffalo games stayed under total; four of Chiefs' last five went over.

Packers (8-4) @ Bears (5-7)-- Green Bay (-3) beat Bears 21-15 at Lambeau in season opener, picking Cutler off four times, but 17 of Cutler's 20 picks have come on road. Pack is 3-2 on road, but they beat Rams-Lions-Browns, lost to Vikings-Bucs, so Chicago will be second-best team they've visited this season. Pack won last four games, scoring 30-34-27 in last three (nine TDs on last 34 drives). Chicago lost four of last five games (0-5 vs spread); they're 1-5 vs the spread as a dog this year- they're 4-2 at home, losing 41-21 to Arizona, 24-20 to Eagles. NFC North underdogs are 6-2-1 vs spread in division games.

Saints (12-0) @ Falcons (6-6)-- Unbeaten Saints scored 30+ points in seven of last eight games (scored 28 in 8th); they beat rival Falcons 35-27 back in Week 8 (-11.5), despite being outgained 442-437- Atlanta lost three fumbles. Saints have huge issues in secondary, signing guys off street then plugging them right in- they're 4-2 as road favorite. Ryan not expected to play for struggling Birds, who lost three of last four games, scoring two TDs on last 21 drives. Atlanta ran ball for just 226 yards on 78 carries in last three games, and with a backup QB playing, very tough for Atlanta to trade points with high scoring rival.

Lions (2-10) @ Ravens (6-6)-- Short week for Baltimore after Monday's loss at Lambeau; Ravens scored four TDs on last 43 drives in last four games, hard to cover two-TD spread that way. Detroit covered in last minute last week at Cincinnati; they're 1-4-1 as road dog this year, losing away games by 18-24-26-12-17-10 points. NFC North road dogs are 1-6 vs spread this year. AFC North home favorites are 6-9, 5-5 at home. Last five Baltimore games, five of last seven Detroit tilts stayed under the total. Over last six weeks, NFL dogs are 51-34-2 against the spread (60%).

Dolphins (6-6) @ Jaguars (7-5)-- Miami won three of last four games; they're 2-4 on road, winning at Jets/Panthers- they're 6-2 when they score 22+ points, 0-4 when they don't. Jags are 7-5 despite being minus-48 in points- they won four of last five games, are 7-0 when they score 18+ points, 0-5 when they do not. AFC South home favorites are 4-7 vs spread in non-division games; AFC East road dogs are 5-5. Over is 6-2-1 in last nine Miami games, but Jags' last three games stayed under. Miami outsacked last four opponents 20-2; Jag QB Garrard has been sacked 10 times in last two games. Big game in playoff race.

Panthers (5-7) @ Patriots (7-5)-- Moore gets another start as Panther QB; in last week's game, Carolina allowed 469 yards to Bucs, but picked Freeman off five times in 16-6 win. If they give Brady 469 yards, Pats will score 35+ pts. In last three games, Panthers scored two TDs on 31 drives, with 12 3/outs. Patriots are 6-0 at home, 4-2 as home favorite, with home wins by 1-16-6-59-10-17 points. Panthers covered three of their last four road games. AFC East home faves are 6-3 vs spread. NFC South road dogs are 5-6 vs spread. Four of last five Carolina games stayed under total.

Seahawks (5-7) @ Texans (5-7)-- Houston lost last four games, all to division foes; they're just 2-4 at home, beating Raiders/49ers (2-3-1 vs spread as fave). Schaub hurt his shoulder last week, returned later in game, is expected to make start here. Seahawks are 5-0 when they allow 20 or less points, 0-7 when they allow more- they're 0-6 vs spread as underdog this year, 0-5 on road, losing on road by 13-17-21-11-26 points. Houston scored 24+ points in four of its last five home games. NFC West road dogs are 10-4 vs spread; AFC South home favorites are 4-7. Four of last five Seattle road games went over the total.

Rams (1-11) @ Titans (5-7)-- Tennessee had five-game win streak snapped in Indy last week; their relentless running game (142+ yards in each of their last seven games) should wear down offensively-challenged St Louis squad that scored 16 first quarter points, least in NFL. A bad team needs to get ahead to gain confidence, but Rams scored three offensive TDs on last 26 drives- they scored four TDs on their 62 road drives this season. Titans are 2-2-1 as a fave this season; they have home wins by 17-24-3 points. Rams are 4-2 as a road dog, losing away games by 28-2-35-3-8 points. Doubt that Jeff Fisher will ever get over losing Super Bowl to Rams 10 years ago.

Redskins (3-9) @ Raiders (4-8)-- Washington covered last four games, losing last three in agonizing fashion, by 1-3-3 points; they're 0-6 on road, dropping five games by six or less points. Oakland won its fourth game last week; in the game following its first three wins, Raiders are 0-3, losing by combined score of 85-10 (0-3 vs spread). Eight of 12 Redskin games were decided by six or less points. Oakland is 2-4 at home, beating Eagles/Bengals, two good teams. Five of last six Washington games went over the total. NFC East road teams are 7-9 vs spread in non-division games. AFC West home teams are 10-4.

Chargers (9-3) @ Cowboys (8-4)-- San Diego won last seven games, covering four of last five; they're 5-1 on road, losing by 10 at Pittsburgh, scoring 30.0 ppg in winning last four on foreign soil. Dallas won last five home games since losing home opener to Giants; four of their last five games stayed under total. Cowboys had allowed 11.5 ppg in last four games before the Giants scored 31 points in last 32:00 last week. Rivers averaged 11.4/14.3 ypa in last two tilts, they scored average of 34 ppg in last four. Bolts are +7 in turnovers their last three games, with only one turnover. AFC road underdogs are 5-7.

Eagles (7-5) @ Giants (7-5)-- Philly (+2) pounded Giants 40-17 in Week 8, as Eagles had great balance (211 yards passing, 180 rushing); Philly scored 28.3 ppg in winning last three games. Winner here has chance to tie for first should San Diego win in Dallas. Giants are 4-2 at home, scoring 24-31 points in last two Swamp games. Eagles are 4-2 on road; they've got to be kicking their own butt for losing in Oakland. Over is 8-4 in both Giant, Eagle games this season; last week was first time in seven games Giants won battle for field position. Underdog is 8-1 vs spread in NFC East games this season.

Monday, December 14

Cardinals (8-4) @ 49ers (5-7)-- Niners (+6.5) beat Arizona 20-16 in season opener, back when they were fashionable choice to make playoffs, but Cards are 7-2 in last nine games, scoring 31-30 points in winning last two home tilts. Redbirds are 1-4 when they score less than 24 points- Warner didn't play in their last loss. 49ers held four of last six opponents under 24; they're 4-2 at home, losing 45-10 to Atlanta, 34-27 to Titans. SF is 0-7 when they allow 17 or more more points, 5-0 when they allow less. When Warner is healthy, the Cardinals are explosive (scored 21+ points in Warner's last eight starts).

Trend Setters - Week 14
By Kevin Rogers

There's still plenty to figure out in the NFL as we venture into the final few weeks of the season. The obvious storyline is who gets in and who gets left out of the playoffs. But for the first time in the modern age, a pair of teams is still unbeaten heading into Week 14, as the Saints and Colts look to stay unblemished. In this week's edition, we look at five matchups, including both Indianapolis and New Orleans each trying to run its mark to 13-0.

Broncos at Colts (-7, 44)

It almost seems normal that these two teams meet in December or later, as four of the last six meetings have come in the final month or the postseason. Indianapolis goes for its 22nd straight regular season victory, while Denver looks for its ninth win of the season.

Each of the last five meetings has finished 'over' the total, with the winning team scoring at least 30 points in all five matchups. The Colts have covered just four of the last 12 games as a home favorite, despite cashing last week against the Titans.

The Broncos have been profitable as underdogs this season, going 5-3 ATS, including outright wins over the Chargers, Cowboys, Bengals, Patriots, and Giants. Similarly to the Cowboys, the Broncos are the ultimate December 'fade,' compiling a 4-11 ATS mark in the final month of the season since 2006.

Saints (-10, 50) at Falcons

New Orleans is right there with Indianapolis in the undefeated department, but the Saints are doing it in more dramatic fashion. Sean Payton's squad rallied past the Redskins in overtime, but failed to cover as nine-point road favorites. The Falcons, meanwhile, are slowly falling apart at the seams with their numerous injuries to key components, including QB Matt Ryan and RB Michael Turner.

The Saints are 10-3 ATS as a road favorite under Payton, but the next number is a bit startling. New Orleans is 2-14 ATS the last 16 games as a division favorite of at least a touchdown, including a 1-2 ATS mark this season.

The Falcons have struggled to cover the number against division opponents, going 4-9 ATS the last 13 versus the NFC South. Atlanta doesn't respond well after allowing a bunch of points, owning a 2-9 ATS mark the last 11 at home following a game in which the Falcons gave up at least 33 points.

Packers (-3, 41) at Bears

This classic NFC North battle means a ton to the Packers, while the Bears are looking to play spoilers. Green Bay knocked off Baltimore on Monday Night to improve to 8-4, the fourth straight win by the Packers. The Bears staved off the Rams last Sunday, but Chicago is still on the outside looking in at 5-7.

The Packers have been nearly automatic on the road inside the division under Mike McCarthy, going 9-2 ATS the last three seasons. Green Bay does not have letdowns following a Monday Night victory, putting together a 9-2 ATS record since 2000 in that spot.

The Bears own a 9-5 ATS mark under Lovie Smith as an underdog against division foes, despite two losses this season to the Packers and Vikings. When revenging a loss against an opponent off a double-digit SU win, Smith and the Bears are 8-2 ATS.

Seahawks at Texans (-6, 44½)

This matchup won't turn many heads as both these 5-7 teams will likely be sitting home when January rolls around. Seattle looks for a third straight victory after knocking off division foes St. Louis and San Francisco the last two weeks. Houston has fallen on hard times, dropping four straight with each loss coming by less than eight points.

The Seahawks have struggled on the road following a home win, compiling a 3-10 ATS mark since 2006. In Jim Mora's coaching career, the Seahawks' head man is 3-11 ATS as an underdog off a SU win.

Despite their recent struggles, the Texans have been money in December. Houston is 7-1 ATS since 2003 in the final month at home off a SU loss. The Texans have been involved in plenty of high-scoring affairs against NFC opponents, going 'over' the total in seven of the last ten interconference contests.

Eagles at Giants (-1, 44½)

The NFC East race is quickly heating up after the Giants knocked off the Cowboys last week, pulling off the season sweep of Dallas. The Cowboys, Eagles, and Giants are separated by only one game with four remaining.

Philadelphia controls its own destiny inside the division, traveling to New York this Sunday night, then to Dallas in Week 17. The Eagles have been strong on the road following an away game, possessing a 7-2 ATS mark the last nine in this situation, coming off last week's victory at Atlanta. However, Philadelphia is just 7-12 ATS since 2005 following a road win.

The Giants are 14-7-1 ATS the last 22 games inside the NFC East, including a 2-1-1 ATS mark this season. The underdog has owned this series recently by cashing each of the last ten meetings. The away team is 4-1 SU/ATS the last five matchups, but the Eagles took the money at Lincoln Financial Field in October, snapping the four-game winning streak by the road squad.

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NFL: Betting Guide
By SportsPic

Seattle Seahawks at Houston Texans

After last weeks tumble at Jacksonville, the reeling Texans dropping four straight games (1-3 ATS) and on the verge of playoff elimination are probably glad to return home. The Texans are a perfect 8-0 SU & ATS in their last eight December home games. Big question, can QB Matt Schaub (22 TD, 12 INT) exploit a Seahawks defense that struggles against the pass (245.2 PYG) and a squad that's 3-8 ATS in their last eleven road games as underdogs surrendering 274.4 passing yards/game over the span

New York Jets at Tampa Bay Buccaneers

The New York Jets aim to extend a two game win streak when they take on Bucs. Rookie QB Mark Sanchez (11 TD, 17 INT) is expected to sit this one out with Kellen Clemens starting in his place. Don't matter, Jets run first strategy last week paid dividends so expect them to limit whichever pivot starts by giving Bucs 31st ranked run stop unit (160.1) a huge dose of their top ranked ground game (168.6 RYG). Jets should cover the small number (-3) as they enter 6-2 ATS L8 encounters. Road teams like Jets who pound out 30+ plays on the ground, out-rushing opponents by 30+ yards/game are a sparkling 30-5 against-the-number this season.

Washington at Oakland

Raiders shocked the world champion Steelers, with a 27-24 win as a 14.5-point underdog last week, the Redskins collapsed against the unbeaten New Orleans Saints losing 33-30 but grabbed the loot for a 4th straight week. So, is it Raiders on an emotional high or Redskins on an emotional low ?. Got to lean Skins way, they're playing much better football of late and we do find teams off a SU win over Super Bowl Champions are not so profitable (26-24-1 ATS) the following week. Catch them as dogs they're just 7-12-1 against-the-number. Keep in mind, Raiders are 3-15-1 ATS in their last 19 games as a home underdog of 0.5-3.5

Total Talk - Week 14
By Chris David

Week 13 Recap

Even though weather didn't play a factor last weekend, the 'under' still produced an 11-5 record which was the same mark posted in Week 12. The sportsbooks have been cleaning up with total plays lately, and gamblers playing 'over' tickets have got to be scratching their heads. Last week's total outcomes could be defined as strong starts but poor finishes. Of the 11 games that went 'under' last weekend, seven of them were on great pace to go 'over' the number but the scoring stalled in the final 30 minutes. Total players wagering on the first-half watched the 'over' go 10-6 last week.

Looking at the five games that went 'over' last week, it’s fair to say that the Saints' 33-30 victory over the Redskins was the only clear-cut winner. The other four tickets that cashed saw an average of 34 points scored in the second-half. The biggest punch in the stomach for 'under' players had to be the Steelers-Raiders contest. Pittsburgh held a 10-6 lead heading into the final 15 minutes before getting outscored 21-14 by Oakland. Considering the Raiders didn't put up 21 points all year in their first 11 games, last week's effort was stunning. On the year, the 'under' stands at 99-90-2 (52%).

Thursday Trend continues

Perhaps it’s a coincidence with the matchups but the ‘under’ steamrolled to another victory on Thursday after the Browns and Steelers combined for 19 points. On the year, the 'under' owns a perfect 8-0 record for the mid-week battle. Next Thursday, the Colts and Jaguars bang heads from Jacksonville. Indianapolis edged Jacksonville 14-12 in its home opener this season and the combined 26 points never threatened the closing total of 45. Before you run to the counter, keep in mind that four of the previous five encounters went 'over' the number.

Non-Conference Action

There have been 48 games played between the AFC and NFC this year. In those contests, the 'under' has gone 27-21. This Sunday, we have eight more non-conference tilts on tap. Let's take a closer look at the matchups and see if any trends appear.

Seattle at Houston: The Seahawks have faced two opponents from the AFC. They gave up 34 at Indianapolis, but blanked Jacksonville at home. The Texans own a 1-1 record versus the NFC, losing at Arizona (21-28) before beating San Francisco (24-21) at home. Houston’s offense has been inconsistent this year and the defense has given up 20 points or more in 10 of its contests. On the road, Seattle has surrendered 29.7 PPG, which has helped produce a 4-2 ‘over’ ledger.

N.Y. Jets at Tampa Bay: The Jets and Buccaneers have both seen their last three games go ‘under’ the number. New York’s defense held New Orleans to 24 points and two of the touchdowns were defensive scores. The Jets are 2-0 to the ‘under’ against the NFC. Tampa Bay has played three times against the AFC this season and it has allowed 33, 35 and 25 points to the Bills, Pats and Dolphins.

Cincinnati at Minnesota: The Bengals (4-1 L5) and Vikings (5-1 L6) both enter this contest with serious ‘under’ streaks. Cincinnati has posted 31, 45 and 23 against the three other teams in the NFC North this year, which has helped the ‘over’ go 2-1. Meanwhile, Minnesota has posted 34, 33 and 17 against the AFC North in its three encounters.

Detroit at Baltimore: The Lions' defense (29.8 PPG) is ranked dead last in scoring, which always helps 'over' tickets. Unfortunately, Detroit hasn't been able to match points. Against the AFC this season, the Lions have given up 28, 37 and 34 points. The 'over' has gone 2-1 in those games. Baltimore has had its share of troubles against the NFC North, allowing Minnesota (33) and Green Bay (27) to light up the scoreboard. The bigger question mark on this game is the Ravens' offense, which has averaged just 14.4 PPG in their last five games. The 'under' has gone 4-1 during this span.

St. Louis at Tennessee: All signs point to an 'under' play here just by looking at the Rams. The offense (11.6 PPG) is ranked last in the league in scoring and the attack has been held to 10 points or less in four of their six road contests this year. The Titans are averaging (20 PPG) behind a sound running game, which always helps the clock move quicker. Tennessee has seen the 'under' cash in its last three games.

Carolina at New England: Bill Belichick's team has been tough to figure out all year long but its obvious that the defense is suspect against the pass. The team only has 20 sacks, which is tied for 29th in the league. Carolina mustered up 16 points against Tampa Bay last week with backup quarterback Matt Moore. The Pats were lit up by the Saints (38) but they did hold the Falcons (10) and Buccaneers (7) in check. Seems like a possible pattern developing here versus NFC South teams.

Washington at Oakland: The Redskins (30) and Raiders (27) both notched season-high point totals last weekend. Can this pair do it again when they square off on Sunday? Against the NFC East this year, Oakland has posted 7, 13 and 7. The 'under' went 2-1 in those games. Washington has seen the total go 1-1 against AFC West opponents this year.

San Diego at Dallas: Prior to last week’s 31-24 to the Giants, the Cowboys’ defense only gave up 11.5 PPG in their last four games. Dallas has watched the ‘under’ go 2-1 against the AFC this year and the lone ‘over’ came in its 26-20 victory against Kansas City, which saw the game-winner scored in overtime. The Chargers’ offense has posted 31, 32, 43 and 30 the last four weeks. San Diego has seen the total go 1-1 in its two games versus the NFC.

Fifty Plus

New Orleans takes its perfect record to the Georgia Dome on Sunday for a battle against Atlanta. Even though the Falcons will most likely be without QB Matt Ryan, the oddsmakers have still hung a total of 50 on this game. The Saints are averaging a league-high 36.7 PPG, so the numbers make sense. However, can Atlanta move the ball behind backup Chris Redman? Last week, the Falcons lost to the Eagles 34-7 and the last touchdown came with no time left on the clock. The Saints stopped the Falcons 35-27 on Nov. 2 and the combined 62 points jumped 'over' the closing number of 56. The last four in this series has gone 'over' and the total has been listed at 50 or higher in three of those games. Keep in mind that there have been nine games that featured totals of 50 points or more this year and the 'under' has gone 7-2 (78%) in those contests. New Orleans has been featured in six of those games and the 'under' is 4-2.

Bay Area Under?

The first eight games on Monday Night Football this year went 'over' the number. Since that surge, the 'under' has rallied with five straight winning tickets. Will the streak be snapped this week when Arizona travels to San Francisco? Oddsmakers at betED.com have the number at 44.5, which seems a little low for the Cardinals and tad high for the 49ers. Gamblers should note that Arizona has watched the 'under' go 8-4 this year, but the 'over' is 3-0 in totals of 44 points or less. The 'under' has gone 7-5 in San Francisco's games this year, which includes a 4-2 mark at home. The last two battles between the two played in Northern California have gone 'under' the number.

Fearless Predictions

On the year, the Best Bets are 12-13-1 (-230) and our teasers have been awful at 3-9-1 (-600). The goal is to turn a profit and as we approach the final quarter, the deficit is $830. As always, press, pass or fade. Good Luck!

Best Over: Seahawks-Jaguars 44.5

Best Under: Panthers-Patriots 44

Three-Team Total Teaser (9-Point, +100)
Over Seahawks-Jaguars 35.5
Under Panthers-Patriots 53
Under Rams-Titans 50.5

Las Vegas Money Moves
By Micah Roberts

We already saw one big favorite drop this week with the Browns dumping Pittsburgh in the cold harsh Cleveland winds on Thursday night and there are four other double-digit favorites this week that could be inspired by the David vs. Goliath slaying theme.

The New Orleans Saints go marching into Atlanta expecting to see a team without All-Pro running back Michael Turner and franchise QB Matt Ryan, but there is a slight possibility that Ryan could play even though he hasn’t practiced all week while nursing his big toe. The Saints opened as 9.5-point favorites and were bumped to 10. The mounting pressure of going undefeated is building and this may a be a perfect spot for the Saints to reset, regroup, and ready themselves for the playoffs.

The Ravens welcome the Lions this week. When news came about Matt Stafford not playing, the line moved a full point to 13.5. Duante Culpepper will get his chance to finally play after being upset about his Thanksgiving day game snub. Rain is expected on Sunday and it seems like a lot of points for a struggling Ravens team to be giving anyone. The Steelers were also in a must-win position for playoff hopes and failed against a much worse team.

The Patriots opened as 12.5-point home favorites to the Panthers and it has been bet up to 13.5 amid Tom Brady not practicing all week and four Patriots players being sent home due to being late for a team meeting. One of the players sent home, LB Adalius Thomas, even popped off to the media -- a no-no in Belichick-land -- about his treatment failing to realize that his team is struggling and lackadaisical attitudes are the first to be attacked in an attempt to rebound.

The Patriots have struggled defensively and the Panthers running attack should be able to move the ball in a game that is expecting rain. This definitely isn’t the Patriots squad we all remember and time is running out. Tough spot for the Patriots this week.

The Rams getting 13-points against the Titans at a rainy Nashville venue doesn’t look enticing at first, but when thinking about running back Steven Jackson moving the chains and hanging around, staying within the number looks very possible. Jackson has been the one constant all season for the Rams and not many have been able to stop him.

Teams with immense pressure on them this week due to playoff implications include the Jets (-3) at Tampa Bay and Dallas (-3.5, Even) welcoming the cool and collective Chargers. The Dallas game is intriguing because the two teams couldn’t be more opposite in December where the Cowboys have failed miserably during Tony Romo’s reign and the Chargers have put it all together with Phillip Rivers command.

The game of the day will feature a revived Giants team fighting for their playoff lives against the Eagles. The game is a pick ’em at the Meadowlands where rain is expected. At the end of the day, there is a possibility of having a three-way tie for first place in the NFC East with the Cowboys being the odd man out and three games to go.

As always at this time of year, keep a sharp eye on the weather conditions for some of the east coast and Great Lakes teams. There are huge advantages in betting under on the totals before the moves happen by just following the national weather reports. Most of those moves occur Saturday evening and sometimes as late as Sunday morning when everyone can see the visual of conditions from the pre-game NFL shows.

NFL Network did a great job for all viewers two hours before game time on Thursday showing how difficult it would be to pass the ball under the cold windy conditions and the game went way under the opener of 36 with a final score of 13-6.

Early Sunday Kickoffs
By Sportsbook.com

The early afternoon betting card in the NFL offers a huge 10-game board, loaded with numerous wagering opportunities. Among the highlight games, both remaining undefeated teams will be in action, while intra-conference division leaders will square off in Minnesota, and AFC wildcard contenders will go head-to-head in Jacksonville. Go to Sportsbook.com for the latest lines, trends and stats for all of Sunday’s games.

DENVER at INDIANAPOLIS

Indianapolis remains unbeaten and is already in the uncomfortable position of wondering whether or not to rest starters in its remaining games. The rest of the AFC is hoping that the Colts don’t, as Denver is in the thick of a wildcard logjam at 8-4. For HC Jim Caldwell’s team, the Broncos represent the foe on their remaining schedule with the best record, thus potentially the greatest chance for getting knocked off. For the Broncos, this is the first of two tough remaining road games, but they are 4-2 SU & ATS away in ’09. These teams have become somewhat regular combatants in recent years, and Indy owns a 6-2 SU & ATS record in the series since ’02. In the last three games in Indianapolis, the Colts are 3-0 SU & ATS with an average victory margin of 24.7 PPG.

CINCINNATI at MINNESOTA

Intra-conference division leaders collide in Minnesota, with each hoping to get closer to locking down their titles. The Vikings are 10-2 after losing at Arizona. The other loss was of course, at the hands of Cincinnati’s rival, the Steelers. The Bengals are 9-3, embarking on a road trip that features stops at the Metrodome and at San Diego. They will be the underdog in both, which may be a welcomed sign for Marvin Lewis, whose team is a perfect 6-0 SU & ATS in the dog role this season. They are also 3-0 vs. the NFC and have gone 6-1 ATS in their last seven overall vs. the opposite conference. Minnesota is 0-6 ATS at home under Brad Childress in the last four weeks of the regular season. The host has swept the last three head-to-head meetings between these teams, winning by 17.7 PPG.

NEW ORLEANS at ATLANTA

Some experts have circled this game on the Saints calendar as the largest remaining obstacle in the quest to finish 16-0 in 2009. New Orleans has been at its best in the road favorite role of late, going 10-3 ATS under Sean Payton, including the failed cover at Washington this past week. The Saints are also 7-3 ATS on the divisional road in his tenure. Having already wrapped up the NFC South title, they’ll be looking to spoil the season of one of their rivals here. Atlanta is 6-6 after dropping one to Philadelphia last week and facing an uncertain immediate future with the injury status of QB Matt Ryan. The Falcons are now 3-1 ATS as a home dog under Mike Smith. Favorites are on a run of 11-1 SU & 9-3 ATS in the L12 meetings between these teams in Atlanta.

MIAMI at JACKSONVILLE

The Dolphins are still breathing after upsetting New England, but at 6-6 would need to win out vs. four other fellow contenders to even have a shot. The Jaguars are 7-5, and although their chances are better, their stats (-4.0 PPG margin) and upcoming schedule (Indy, at NE) suggest a postseason berth isn’t in their future either. Jacksonville moved to 2-4 ATS in ’09 at home after the loss to Houston and is 3-11 ATS in its last 14 as host. In the head-to-head series, the Jaguars own a 3-1 SU & ATS edge, most recently in ’06 in Miami.

Late Afternoon Battles
By Sportsbook.com

There are only three NFL games scheduled for late afternoon on Sunday, and only one of them means anything in the grand scope of the playoff picture, that being San Diego visiting Dallas. Still, for all three, Sportsbook.com has of course offered up a pointspread and total among other wagering possibilities, so they are all worthy of your attention. Here is a quick look at all three, with some key betting tidbits to consider.

ST LOUIS at TENNESSEE

Tennessee will look to start a new winning streak after its loss at Indianapolis snapped its string of five straight. The setback might have been the nail in the coffin of the Titans’ postseason hopes as well, as at 5-7, their chances are remote. Here, they’ll start a three-game homestand against a St. Louis team that still has just one win in ’09 after falling in Chicago. The Rams have at least been competitive on the road, boasting a 4-2 ATS mark. St Louis is also on a 6-0 ATS run in road games vs. poor defensive teams allowing 5.65 yards/play over the last three seasons. The Titans yield 6.0 YPP. They are 32-14 ATS vs. NFC under Jeff Fisher though. St. Louis has won the last two meetings between these teams, including the Super Bowl in’00, but didn’t win ATS in either.

WASHINGTON at OAKLAND

Washington and Oakland play one of the uglier matchups of Week 14, and fittingly, the game has plenty of trends to match. Oakland is 0-6 ATS vs. teams with a losing record over the last two seasons, with an average loss of 26.8-9.5. Washington is 15-29 ATS vs. bad teams (Win Pct. 25% to 40%) since 1992. The Raiders counter that by going 20-40 ATS in December games since 1992. Not to be outdone, Washington brings a 1-8 ATS record vs. AFC foes over the last three seasons into this scintillating contest. The Redskins are hoping to extend a stretch of 3-0 SU & ATS by the visitor in the head-to-head series between these teams. In fairness to both franchises, the teams have been more competitive of late, Oakland 3-2 ATS in its last five, Washington has covered its last four.

SAN DIEGO at DALLAS

Dallas continues its most difficult stretch of the season when it hosts the red hot Chargers. San Diego has won seven straight games to reach 9-3 and has its sights set on a first round bye. Under Norv Turner, this has been the time of the year where the Chargers have played their best football, boasting an 8-2 ATS December mark. They are also 8-1 ATS in the second half of the season vs. good offensive teams gaining 5.65 yards per play in his tenure. Dallas averages a lofty 6.7 YPP but finds itself in a tight NFC East race after losing to New York. Since dropping the new stadium opener, the Cowboys have won five straight at home, holding three teams to a TD or less while going 4-1 ATS. They are on a 3-7 ATS slide vs. the AFC, including 2-3 ATS at home.

Denver (8-4 SU and ATS) at Indianapolis (12-0, 8-4 ATS)
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The torrid Colts look to grab home-field advantage for the playoffs and set an NFL record with their 22nd straight regular-season win when they play host to the Broncos at Lucas Oil Stadium.

Indianapolis topped Tennessee 27-17 Sunday as a six-point home favorite to remain unbeaten, while also cashing for the third straight week. The Colts, who have won 21 straight regular-season contests dating to last season, rank fourth in the league total offense (390.6 total yards per game), mostly due to QB Peyton Manning leading the NFL’s No. 1 passing attack at 302.8 ypg, with the MVP candidate tossing 26 TDs against 12 INTS. Indy’s offense is also fourth in scoring 27.6 ppg (fourth), and Jim Caldwell’s troops are also second in points-allowed at just 16.8 ppg.

Denver has bounced back from an 0-4 SU and ATS skid by winning and cashing in its last two, including a 44-13 rout of Kansas City last Sunday as a six-point road chalk. Despite that scoring outburst, the Broncos are still netting just 20 ppg on the year (21st). However, they rate third in scoring defense (16.8 ppg), having given up just one point more than the Colts, and they’re third in total defense (288.9 ypg).
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The SU winner has cashed in all 12 of Denver’s games this year and 15 in a row overall for the Broncos.
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Indianapolis has won the last three meetings in this rivalry SU and ATS, including a 38-20 home victory laying 10 points in September 2007. The Colts are 4-1 ATS in the last five contests, during which the favorite and the home team also went 4-1 ATS, and Indy is 4-1 ATS in its last five home clashes with Denver. Also, the SU winner has cashed in eight straight meetings between these clubs.

The Colts are 4-10 ATS in their last 14 games as a home chalk, but they are otherwise on ATS upticks of 3-1 overall (all as a chalk and all against the AFC), 6-1 after a spread-cover and 4-1 in December. The Broncs are on identical 7-1 ATS runs after either a SU or an ATS win, but they carry negative pointspread streaks of 2-9 in roadies against teams with a winning home record 1-4 in December and 3-6 on the road after a SU victory.

Indianapolis is on “under” runs of 5-2 at home and 10-4 in conference play, and the under for Denver is on tears of 9-3 overall, 4-0 with the Broncos a pup, 9-1-2 against winning teams, 11-2 after a SU win and 9-2 after a spread-cover. However, the over is 10-4-1 in Denver’s last 15 December starts, and in this rivalry, the total has gone high in the last five clashes.
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ATS ADVANTAGE: INDIANAPOLIS

Cincinnati (9-3, 6-6 ATS) at Minnesota (10-2, 7-4-1 ATS)
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Two teams aiming to improve their playoff credentials get together when the Bengals head to the Metrodome for a non-conference clash with the Vikings.

Cincinnati topped Detroit 23-13 last week, but fell short as a hefty 13½-point chalk for its third straight ATS setback (2-1 SU), all against league doormats – the Lions, Browns and Raiders. The Bengals are fielding the NFL’s staunchest defense, allowing just 15.6 ppg, and they are fourth in total yards allowed at 293.2 per game. And RB Cedric Benson didn’t miss a beat in returning from a hip injury, with 36 carries for 110 yards against Detroit. Despite missing two games, Benson is seventh in the league with 969 rushing yards.
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Minnesota had its four-game win streak (3-0-1 ATS) snapped in a 30-17 loss at Arizona as a 3½-point road favorite, being held under 27 points for just the second time all year (both losses). The Vikings are still second in the NFL in scoring at 29.9 ppg, trailing only the Saints (36.7 ppg), with an offense rolling up 383.8 ypg (fifth). Minnesota also sports a plus-seven turnover margin (seventh).

These teams have met just once this decade, with Cincinnati rolling 37-8 as a 3½-point home favorite in September 2005.

The underdog has covered in all 11 of Cincinnati’s games this season, while as a team the Bengals are on ATS runs of 8-0 as a ‘dog, 4-0 as a road pup, 6-0 against winning teams, 6-0 against the NFC and 5-2 in December. Likewise, the Vikings are on ATS surges of 3-1-1 overall, 6-1 after a SU loss and 7-3 as a non-conference chalk, but they are also 1-7 ATS in their last eight December outings and 2-7 ATS in their last nine against winning teams.
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The under for Cincinnati is on several rolls, including 4-1 overall, 10-1 in December, 5-1 after a SU win, 4-1 as a road pup and 24-9 with the Bengals catching 3½ to 10 points on the highway. The under has also hit in four straight for Minnesota (all as a chalk) and is 4-1 in the Vikes’ last five December games, but the over is 34-16-3 in Minny’s last 53 games following a SU loss.
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ATS ADVANTAGE: MINNESOTA

N.Y. Jets (6-6 SU and ATS) at Tampa Bay (1-10, 4-8 ATS)
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The Jets, just a game behind New England for first place in the AFC East, fly south to face the dismal Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium, but New York will do so without starting QB Mark Sanchez in the linuep

New York held off Buffalo 19-13 in the Thursday game last week (played in Toronto), covering as a 3½-point chalk. It was the second straight win and cover for the Jets, following a 1-6 SU and ATS purge. New York boasts the league’s No. 1 running attack (168.6 ypg), with RB Thomas Jones (1,068 yards, 4.5 ypg, 9 TDs) leading the way, yet the Jets are 20th in total offense (324.9 ypg) and 17th in scoring (20.8 ppg).

Sanchez sprained his knee in the win over the Bills and has been ruled out for this game, meaning Kellen Clemens will get the start.
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Tampa Bay lost to Carolina 16-6 as a 3½-point road pup Sunday for its fourth consecutive setback (2-2 ATS). The Buccaneers have scored 17 points or less in seven of their last 10 games and are averaging just 15.6 ppg on the year (29th). Defensively, the Bucs are giving up 365.8 ypg (26th) and are allowing the second-most points in the league at 27.5 ppg.

New York and Tampa have met just twice this decade, with the Jets going 2-0 SU and ATS, both from the underdog role. Most recently, New York won 14-12 as a three-point home pup in October 2005.
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The Jets are 7-3 ATS in their last 10 games coming off a SU win, but they are 1-5 ATS in their last six December starts and are on further pointspread purges of 0-5 against the NFC on the road and 4-11 as a favorite. The Buccaneers, meanwhile, are on a 1-15 SU nosedive (5-11 ATS) and are on a handful of negative ATS streaks, including 4-10 overall, 1-8 at Raymond James, 1-6 in December and 3-10 after a SU loss.

The under for New York is on runs of 8-1 in December, 5-2-1 on the highway, 5-2 following a SU win and 13-6 after a spread-cover, and the under is 4-1 for Tampa Bay in its last five coming off a SU loss. However, the total has cleared the posted price in eight of the Bucs’ last 10 December games.
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ATS ADVANTAGE: N.Y. JETS

Buffalo (4-8, 6-6 ATS) at Kansas City (3-9, 5-7 ATS)
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In a meeting of two teams playing out the string, the Chiefs try to snap a two-game skid when they face the Bills at Arrowhead Stadium.

Kansas City got belted for the second straight week last Sunday, losing to Denver 44-13 as a six-point home ‘dog after taking a 43-14 beating at San Diego catching 13½ points a week earlier. The Chiefs have allowed 24 points or more in five of their last six games and are giving up 27.2 ppg for the year (30th), along with 394.6 ypg, second-worst behind only Cleveland’s 400.2 ypg. Offensively, K.C. is netting just 265.6 ypg (30th) and 16.3 ppg (28th).

Buffalo, playing in the Thursday game last week, lost to New York 19-13 as a 3½-point “home” pup in Toronto, ending a modest two-game ATS upswing since Perry Fewell took over as interim coach. Like the Chiefs, the Bills have struggled to score all season, averaging 16.6 ppg (27th) and getting held to 17 points or less in eight of their last 10 outings, while gaining just 273.9 ypg (26th).
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These teams met in November 2008, also in Kansas City, with Buffalo rumbling to a 54-31 victory as a three-point road chalk and improving to 4-1 ATS (3-2 SU) in the last five clashes. The favorite is 5-2 ATS in the last seven meetings, and the SU winner is 9-1 ATS in the last 10 contests, dating to 1993.

The Chiefs are 4-1 ATS in their last five games following a SU loss and 4-0 ATS in their last four after a double-digit home loss, but they are also on ATS skids of 5-14 at Arrowhead, 2-6 after a non-cover and 3-7 against the AFC. The Bills are on a 1-4 ATS slide against winning teams, but they carry positive ATS streaks of 7-2 on the highway, 6-2 as a road pup and 7-3 after a SU loss.
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Kansas City is on a bundle of “over” runs, including 4-1-1 overall, 3-0-2 at home, 8-1-1 after a double-digit home loss and 25-12 in December, though the Chiefs are on a 9-2-1 “under” surge against losing teams. The under for Buffalo is on runs of 6-2 overall and 5-2 against the AFC, and in this rivalry, the total has stayed low in six of the last seven meetings overall and four of the last five at Arrowhead.
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ATS ADVANTAGE: UNDER

Green Bay (8-4, 7-4-1 ATS) at Chicago (5-7, 4-8 ATS)
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The Packers, who are on a four-game run that has put them in the thick of the playoff race, travel to Soldier Field for a meeting with the division-rival Bears.

Green Bay dumped Baltimore 27-14 on Monday night as a 3½-point home favorite, moving to 3-0-1 ATS during its winning streak. QB Aaron Rodgers leads the NFL’s sixth-best total offense, at 379.3 ypg, and the Pack are putting up 26.9 ppg (seventh), scoring 26 or more in seven of the last eight games. The big difference maker for Green Bay this year, though, is its league-leading turnover margin of plus-18.

Chicago held off hapless St. Louis 17-9 at home Sunday to snap a four-game SU skid, but the Bears fell short of cashing as a 9½-point chalk and have now dumped five straight ATS decisions. The presence of QB Jay Cutler hasn’t done much to bolster Chicago’s fortunes, as it is averaging just 309.2 ypg (24th) and 19.4 ppg (22nd). Cutler has a league-leading 20 INTs (against 17 TDs), and the Bears have the second-worst running game (88 ypg).
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Green Bay held off Chicago 21-15 as a 4½-point favorite in Week 1 to cover for the third straight time (2-1 SU) in this long-standing rivalry. The Packers have cashed in eight of their last 10 Soldier Field clashes with the Bears, and they are 12-5-1 ATS in the last 18 meetings overall. Also, the SU winner is 8-1-1 ATS in the last 10 contests.

The Packers are on several spread-covering streaks, including 9-3 in the NFC North, 4-1-1 against losing teams, 5-2-1 laying points, 17-7-1 on the highway and 10-4 as a road chalk. The Bears are on an 11-5 ATS run getting three points or less at home, but otherwise, they are on ATS dives of 6-18-2 after a SU win, 0-4 after an ATS setback, 1-6 in division play, 0-6 against the NFC and 0-5 versus winning teams.
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The over carries the day for Green Bay, as it is on tears of 46-22-2 against losing teams, 18-8 with the Pack favored, 12-5-1 in roadies, 19-7 after a SU win and 22-6 after a spread-cover, though the under has hit in four of the Packers’ last five December games. The under for Chicago is on stretches of 4-0 overall, 5-0 after a non-cover, 5-2 at Soldier Field and 7-3 with the Bears a home pup. Finally, in this rivalry, the under is 5-2 in the last seven meetings overall.
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ATS ADVANTAGE: GREEN BAY

New Orleans (12-0, 8-4 ATS) at Atlanta (6-6, 7-5 ATS)
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The Saints, who narrowly kept their perfect record intact last week, hit the road for the second straight Sunday, this time facing the NFC South rival Falcons, who are on the brink of being forced out of the playoff picture.
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New Orleans struggled all afternoon Sunday with Washington, trailing by 10 on three occasions, but it rallied from 30-20 down in the fourth quarter to win 33-30 on a field goal in overtime. The Saints fell well short as a nine-point road chalk, ending a two-game ATS uptick, but they continue to field the league’s most dominant offense, averaging 429 ypg and a whopping 36.7 ppg. New Orleans also forced four turnovers Sunday while committing just one, to stand at plus-15 for the season, second-best in the NFL.

Atlanta, minus starting QB Matt Ryan, got pelted by Philadelphia 34-7 as a four-point home pup last week, falling to 1-3 SU and ATS in its last four games. The Falcons have been giving up points in bunches the past seven games, allowing 28 points or more five times, with four teams scoring 34 points or more. Atlanta’s defense is also yielding 374.4 ypg on the year (28th).
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Ryan, who is dealing with a toe injury, is questionable for this game. If he can’t go, veteran backup Chris Redman will get the nod once again.

New Orleans has won six of the last seven in this rivalry (4-3 ATS), including a 35-27 home victory Nov. 2, though it failed to cover as an 11-point favorite in that one. Despite that outcome, the SU winner is still 6-2 ATS in the last eight meetings in this series.

The Saints have failed to cash in four of their last five in conference action, but they still sport positive ATS streaks of 13-5-1 overall, 7-2-1 on the highway, 11-4-1 in road division tilts and 7-2 after a non-cover. The Falcons are 11-2 ATS in their last 13 coming off a SU loss and 4-1 ATS in their last five after a pointspread setback, but they are also on ATS dips of 1-4 in December, 4-9 in the NFC South and 4-9 as a home ‘dog.
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In this rivalry, the over has hit in the last four meetings. Furthermore, the over for New Orleans is on sprees of 22-10-1 overall, 10-1 in December, 18-7 after a SU win and 37-18-1 against NFC foes. Atlanta is on nothing but “over” tears, including 5-2 overall, 4-1 after a SU loss, 9-3 within the conference, 6-2 inside the division and 7-3 in December.
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ATS ADVANTAGE: NEW ORLEANS and OVER

Detroit (2-10, 3-8-1 ATS) at Baltimore (6-6 SU and ATS)
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The Ravens, who reached the AFC title game last year, face a near must-win proposition to stay in the postseason picture when they meet the lowly Lions at M&T Bank Stadium.

Baltimore lost to Green Bay 27-14 Monday night getting 3½ points on the road for its third consecutive ATS setback, and the inconsistent Ravens have alternated SU wins over their past seven games. Baltimore has also struggled to score lately, netting 20 points or less in each of its last five outings to drag its season average down to 22.6 ppg (15th) after spending the first few weeks of the year among the top five in scoring.
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Detroit fell at Cincinnati 23-13 Sunday for its second straight loss, though it covered as a heavy 13½-point pup to halt an 0-5-1 ATS slide. Like Baltimore, the Lions also have struggled to put up points, getting held to 13 or less in five of their last seven starts, and they are averaging only 17.2 ppg for the year. Defensively, Detroit is yielding a league-worst 29.8 ppg, along with 388.2 ypg (30th).

Lions Rookie QB Matthew Stafford (shoulder) is unlikely to play this week, meaning veteran Daunte Culpepper will start.

These squads have squared off just once this decade in regular-season play, with Detroit rolling 35-17 as a 1½-point home favorite in October 2005.

Despite their current 1-4 ATS skid, the Ravens maintain positive pointspread streaks of 9-0 against losing teams, 11-4 laying points, 40-17-1 as a home chalk, 9-2 laying more than 10 points at home and 6-2 after a SU loss. The Lions are a putrid 3-33 SU (11-24-1 ATS) in their last 36 games, dating to the middle of the 2007 season, and they are on ATS purges of 1-5-1 overall, 1-4-1 in roadies (all as a ‘dog), 1-4-1 after a SU loss and 7-18-1 after a spread-cover.
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The under for Baltimore is on runs of 5-1 overall, 5-1 with the Ravens a chalk, 6-2 as a home favorite, 4-1 in December and 4-1 at home, though the over is on a 7-3 surge against losing teams. The under for Detroit is on upticks of 5-2 overall and 4-1 from the underdog role, but the over for the Lions is on tears of 10-2-1 after a spread-cover, 9-3 in December and 8-3 on the highway.
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ATS ADVANTAGE: BALTIMORE

Miami (6-6 SU and ATS) at Jacksonville (7-5, 5-7 ATS)
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The Jaguars, who have fought their way into playoff position after an 0-3 start to the season, look for their fifth win in six weeks when they battle the in-state rival Dolphins.

Jacksonville dropped Houston 23-18 as a one-point home pup last week, ending a two-game ATS skid while improving to 4-1 SU in the last five. The Jaguars are getting it done despite averaging just 18.8 ppg (23rd) while giving up 22.8 (22nd). Jacksonville is bolstered by the league’s seventh-best rushing attack (130.5 ypg), with Maurice Jones-Drew (1,077 yards, 4.6 ypc, 13 TDs) sitting fourth in rushing yards.
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Miami upended New England a week ago, rallying from a 14-0 deficit to take a 22-21 victory as a 4½-point home ‘dog. The Dolphins, who have alternated spread-covers over their last five games (3-2 SU), are fourth in rushing (150.4 ypg) and 12th in scoring (23.2 ppg), but they are giving up 24.7 ppg (26th).

Miami and Jacksonville have met in the preseason every year since 2003, but they’ve had just three meaningful clashes since 2000, with the Jags going 2-1 SU and ATS. Most recently, Jacksonville rolled 24-10 as a one-point road chalk in December 2006. The favorite is 3-0-1 ATS in the last four contests.

Although they have surged into postseason contention, the Jaguars are on pointspread declines of 2-6 overall, 3-11 at home, 1-12 as a chalk, 0-9 laying points at home, 2-9 after an ATS win and 4-13 outside the AFC South. On the flip side, the Dolphins sport positive ATS streaks of 9-4 on the road, 4-0 getting points, 8-2 as a road pup, 5-1 against AFC foes and 4-1 against winning teams, but Miami is also just 2-9 ATS in its last 11 non-division games.
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Jacksonville is on “over” runs of 5-2 at home, 5-1-1 with the Jaguars a favorite, 9-3-1 with them laying three points or less and 5-0-1 with the Jags a home chalk of that same price. That said, the under is 5-1 in Jacksonville’s last six December starts, and the under for Miami is on rolls of 8-3 on the highway, 7-1 with the Dolphins a road pup, 4-1 in December and 16-6 with the squad coming off a SU win.
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ATS ADVANTAGE: NONE

Carolina (5-7 SU and ATS) at New England (7-5, 6-6 ATS)
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The Patriots will try to halt a rare two-game losing skid in a non-conference contest with the Panthers at Gillette Stadium.

New England blew a 14-0 lead at Miami last weekend, losing 22-21 on a late field goal as a 4½-point road favorite. It was the Patriots’ second straight loss – the first time that’s happened since 2006 – and third in the last four games (2-2 ATS), trimming their lead in the AFC East to just one game over the Jets. New England still sports the second-most-productive offense, churning out 414.6 ypg, while scoring 27.3 ppg (fifth), and they’re giving up 321.9 ypg (11th) and just 18.7 ppg (seventh).
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Carolina topped Tampa Bay 16-6 as a 3½-point home chalk Sunday, snapping a two-game SU and ATS skid. QB Jake Delhomme (finger) sat out the victory, but that might have actually helped, as the long-time starter has tossed 18 INTs, this season, trailing only the Bears’ Jay Cutler and the Lions’ Matthew Stafford (20 picks each. The lone bright spot for the Panthers: They have the NFL’s third-best rushing attack, racking up 151.9 ypg.

Delhomme is expected to sit out again this weekend, with Matt Moore set to start again.

The last regular-season meeting between these squads was in September 2005, with Carolina winning 27-17 as a three-point home pup. The Panthers are 2-1 ATS (1-2 SU) in three clashes with New England this decade, including a 32-29 loss as a seven-point ‘dog in the Super Bowl following the 2003 season.
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The Patriots are 4-1 ATS in their last five at Gillette (all as a chalk), 21-6-1 ATS in their last 28 following a SU loss and 8-3-1 ATS in their last dozen following a pointspread defeat, and they are also on a 5-2 ATS run against losing teams. However, they are 1-9 ATS in their last 10 laying more than 10 points. The Panthers have cashed in seven of their last eight December starts, but they are on a 4-10 ATS purge as a road underdog and are 4-8 ATS in their last dozen against the AFC.
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The over is 6-2-1 in New England’s last nine home games (all as a favorite), and the over for Carolina is on stretches of 7-3 on the road, 7-3 with the Panthers a pup, 8-3 against winning teams and 11-5 in December. However, the under for the Pats is on streaks of 4-1-1 overall, 3-0-1 against losing teams and 7-2-2 laying more than 10 points at home, and for the Panthers, the under is on surges of 4-1 overall, and 4-1 after either a SU or an ATS win.
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ATS ADVANTAGE: NEW ENGLAND

Seattle (5-7 SU and ATS) at Houston (5-7, 5-6-1 ATS)
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The Seahawks pursue their third straight victory when they make the trek to the Lone Star State for a non-conference clash with the Texans at Reliant Stadium.

Seattle bested San Francisco 20-17 catching one point at home Sunday, winning and cashing for the second straight week after a likely season-killing 1-4 SU and ATS skid. The Seahawks have been up and down all year offensively, scoring 27 points or more four times and 17 points or less five times. They rate 23rd in total offense (317.2 ypg) and 20th in scoring (20.2 ppg), and they’re in that same range defensively, allowing 349.4 ypg (21st) and 22.2 ppg (20th).
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Houston’s season has imploded over the past month, losing four in row – all to division opponents – including a 23-18 defeat at Jacksonville on Sunday as a one-point favorite for its third consecutive ATS setback. The Texans have scored 18 points or less in three of the four losses, following a stretch in which they put up 24 points or more in six out of seven games. QB Matt Schaub is directing the NFL’s fourth-best passing attack, at 278.9 ypg, but the Texans are running for just 89 ypg (29th), and they will be without star RB Steve Slaton (neck) for the rest of the season.

Schaub left last week’s game against Jacksonville with a shoulder injury, but he returned and is probable for today.
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There has been just one meeting between these two units, in October 2005, with Seattle belting Houston 42-10 as a 9½-point home chalk.

The Seahawks are on ATS upswings of 5-0 against losing teams and 4-1 in December, but they are otherwise on pointspread dives of 5-11 after a spread-cover, 3-10 after a SU win, 1-6 in roadies and 9-24 in non-division roadies. The Texans are 1-4-1 ATS in their last six at home, but they are on a pair of 5-2 ATS runs – coming off a non-cover and in December.
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Seattle is on “over” runs of 6-1-2 against losing teams, 4-1 on the road and 25-12 as a road pup, but the under for the Seahawks is on 4-1 rolls after either a SU or an ATS win. The under for Houston is on streaks of 4-1 overall, 5-1 in December, 4-1 after a SU loss, 4-1 with the Texans favored and 4-0 against losing teams.
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ATS ADVANTAGE: HOUSTON

St. Louis (1-11, 6-6 ATS) at Tennessee (5-7 SU and ATS)
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The Titans, who had their five-game winning streak snapped last weekend, try to bounce back when they take on the lowly Rams at LP Field.

Tennessee tumbled to undefeated Indianapolis 27-17 Sunday as a six-point road pup, failing to cover for the second straight week after a four-game ATS surge. The Titans, who lost their first six games (1-5 ATS) before winning their next five (4-1 ATS), couldn’t keep their hot streak going against the Colts after falling behind 21-3. That said, star RB Chris Johnson (27 carries, 113 yards) continued to get it done, and he now has a league-leading 1,509 yards, averaging an eye-popping 6.2 ypc.
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QB Vince Young missed some practice time this week with a knee injury but is expected to start against the Rams. If he can’t go, though, veteran Kerry Collins will get the nod.

St. Louis dumped its fourth in a row in a 17-9 loss at Chicago, but covered as a 9½-point chalk and is now 4-1 ATS in its last five starts. The Rams have been held to 17 points or less in 10 of 12 games this year, including six outings of 10 points or less, and not surprisingly, they rate last in the league at 11.6 ppg. RB Steven Jackson is second to Johnson on the league rushing list, at 1,232 yards, (4.6 ypg), but his yards haven’t converted to points for St. Louis.

These teams have met twice this decade, with St. Louis going 2-0 SU and 0-1-1 ATS, including a 23-16 Super Bowl victory following the 1999 season, getting a push as a seven-point chalk. Most recently, the Rams won 31-27 giving seven points at home in September 2005, but Tennessee cashed as a seven-point pup.
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The Titans are on ATS dips of 1-6 after either a SU or an ATS loss and 2-6 laying points, but they are 9-3 ATS in their last 12 against losing teams, and they are on further ATS rolls of 5-0 laying more than 10 points and 16-5 hosting the NFC. The Rams are a paltry 1-21 SU (10-12 ATS) in their last 22 outings, and they carry negative ATS streaks of 3-9 catching more than 10 points and 13-27 following a SU loss. But along with their current 4-1 ATS run (all as a pup), they are on spread-covering upticks of 5-1 against losing teams and 4-1 on the road (also all as a ‘dog).

The under is 5-2 in Tennessee’s last seven December games, but the over for the Titans is on spurts of 4-0 against losing teams and 8-3 after a SU loss. Meanwhile, St. Louis is on a 5-1 “under” tear on the road (all as a pup).
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ATS ADVANTAGE: TENNESSEE

Washington (3-9, 6-6 ATS) at Oakland (4-8, 6-6 ATS)
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The Raiders, coming off one of the biggest upsets of the year, continue their quest to salvage a little dignity for the once-proud organization when they tackle the Redskins at the Coliseum.

Oakland shocked Pittsburgh 27-24 as a whopping 14½-point road underdog last weekend and is now on a modest 2-1 SU and ATS upswing, including an upset win over likely AFC North champ Cincinnati in its last home game. Still, the 27-point outburst is far from the norm for the Raiders, who are still 31st in scoring at a meager 11.8 ppg this year, and they also sit sit 31st in total offense (247.8 ypg).
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Washington nearly pulled off a huge upset over undefeated New Orleans last Sunday, blowing a 10-point fourth-quarter lead and falling 33-30 in overtime, though the Redskins easily cashed as a nine-point home ‘dog. The ‘Skins have dropped three in a row SU – by a total of seven points – but they’ve cashed in each of their last four starts. Washington has scored 24 points or more in three of those games, well above their season average of 16.7 ppg (26th).

Oakland edged Washington 16-13 as a six-point road pup in November 2005, the only time these squads have met this decade.
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Despite the Raiders’ recent surge, they remain on a bundle of negative ATS streaks, including 0-4 after a spread-cover, 1-5 after a SU win, 16-37-1 at the Coliseum, 16-36-1 against losing teams and 3-13 against the NFC. The Redskins are on ATS dips of 6-17-4 against losing teams, 4-9-2 after a SU loss and 1-10-1 against the AFC, though along with their current 4-0 ATS run, they are 6-2-1 ATS in their last nine December starts.

The over is 5-1-1 in Oakland’s last seven in December, but the Raiders are on “under” stretches of 5-0-1 against losing teams and 4-1 following a spread-cover. The over has hit in five of the last six overall for Washington and is on a 5-0 roll for the ‘Skins following a SU loss, but the under for Jim Zorn’s troops is on a 9-1-1 tear against losing teams.
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ATS ADVANTAGE: NONE

San Diego (9-3, 6-6 ATS) at Dallas (8-4, 6-6 ATS)
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The streaking Chargers chase their eighth consecutive victory when they make the trip to Jerry Jones’ palatial new stadium to take on the Cowboys.

San Diego was up 27-7 on Cleveland in the third quarter Sunday before letting off the gas in a 30-23 road victory, failing to cash as a healthy 13½-point chalk, which ended a four-game spread-covering streak. The Chargers have scored 30 points or more in each of their last four games and sit third in the league for the season, averaging 28.5 ppg. San Diego also has posted a plus-9 turnover margin (fourth).
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Dallas had its 6-1 SU roll halted last Sunday in New York, losing 31-24 to the Giants as a one-point chalk. The Cowboys had more than 400 total yards against the Giants and still sport the third-most proficient offense in the league, rolling up 394.8 ypg, though that has yielded just 23.2 ppg (tie for 10th). That’s generally been enough scoring, though, as the Dallas defense has held its opponents to an average of 17.8 ppg (fifth).

San Diego and Dallas have split two meetings SU and ATS this decade, with the road team winning and cashing each time. Most recently, Dallas won 28-24 as a 4½-point underdog in September 2005.
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The Chargers are on ATS rolls of 4-1 overall (all after SU wins), 8-2 in December, 19-6-3 as a ‘dog and 15-6-3 as a road pup, but they’ve gone just 4-10 ATS in their last 14 non-division road games. The Cowboys have won their last five home games SU, going 4-1 ATS (all as a chalk), and they’re on an 11-4 ATS run in non-division home games, but the Pokes shoulder negative ATS streaks of 0-4 laying three points or less, 3-13-2 in December and 2-5 against winning teams.

San Diego is on a handful of “over” tears, including 11-5-2 overall, 5-0-1 in December, 20-8-3 on the highway and 10-4 following a SU win, and the over for Dallas is on rolls of 5-2 against winning teams and 9-4 with the Cowboys giving three or less at home. However, the under for Dallas is on runs of 4-1 overall, 5-2 after a SU loss and 13-6 after a non-cover.
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ATS ADVANTAGE: DALLAS

Philadelphia (8-4, 7-5 ATS) at N.Y. Giants (7-5, 5-7 ATS)
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The Eagles aim to remain in the NFC playoff picture, while the Giants will try to climb back in it when these NFC East rivals collide at the Meadowlands.
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Philadelphia has followed a two-game losing skid by peeling off three straight victories (2-1 ATS), including a 34-7 blowout of Atlanta on Sunday as a four-point road chalk. The Eagles sit 11th in the NFL in total offense at 359 ypg, but they rate sixth in scoring at 27.2 ppg, boosted by a plus-12 turnover margin that rates second only to the Saints. Philly’s defense, meanwhile is yielding 304.1 ypg (seventh) and 19.6 ppg (13th).

New York stemmed a 1-5 SU and 0-6 ATS plunge by dropping Dallas 31-24 Sunday as a one-point home pup, winning and covering in the same week for the first time since Oct. 11. The Giants are averaging 25.2 ppg (eighth), but they’re giving up just a couple ticks less at 23.8 ppg (25th). However, New York’s once-stout defense has surrendered 24 points or more in six of the last seven games.
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Philadelphia has won and cashed in the last three meetings of this rivalry, all as an underdog. That includes a 23-11 victory as a four-point road pup in last year’s divisional playoff round, followed by a 40-17 rout on Nov. 1 as a one-point home ‘dog. Prior to Philly’s recent run, New York had cashed in four straight meetings (3-1 SU).

The underdog has covered in 10 consecutive meetings between these two, the road team is 4-1 ATS in the last five clashes, and the Eagles are 5-2 ATS on their last seven trips to the Meadowlands. Finally, the SU winner has covered in six straight overall and eight of the last nine matchups.
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The Eagles are on a plethora of pointspread rolls, including 16-7 on the highway, 4-1 in December and 5-2 against NFC foes, though they are 2-5 ATS in their last seven after an ATS win. The Giants sport positive ATS stretches of 23-8 after a spread-cover, 19-7 after a SU win and 8-3 in December. But along with its current 1-6 ATS purge, New York is 1-6 ATS in its last seven against winning teams.
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Philadelphia is on “over” upswings of 9-4 overall and 27-13-1 against winning teams, and New York is on “over” runs of 4-0 in division play and 4-1 against the NFC. However, in this rivalry, the total has stayed low in five of the last seven meetings overall and 13 of the last 16 clashes at New York.
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ATS ADVANTAGE: PHILADELPHIA

What Bettors Need To Know: Eagles at Giants
By JON KUIPERIJ

The Eagles visit the Giants Sunday night for an NFC East clash that is critical to the playoff hopes of both teams, particularly New York.

Philadelphia (8-4) enters the weekend tied with the Cowboys for first place in the division, only one game ahead of the 7-5 Giants. New York also trails the 8-4 Packers in the wild card race and a loss Sunday would drop New York to 5-4 in conference play. Conference record would be the first tiebreaker between the Packers (6-3 in the NFC) and Giants since they don’t play each other this year.

Line movement

The Giants opened as 1-point favorites, but they are now 1-point dogs at several books. The total was posted at 46.5 and has been bet down to 44.

Weather

December night games at Giants Stadium aren't typically balmy, and this one won't be either. Temperatures are expected to drop into the mid-30s and there is a strong chance of rain.

Injury report

Eagles running back Brian Westbrook (concussion) returned to practice this week, but is expected to miss his fourth straight game. Philly wide receiver DeSean Jackson, who also sat out last week with a concussion, is listed as probable for Sunday.

The Giants remain without linebacker Antonio Pierce, who is out for the season with a neck injury. Safety Michael Johnson (groin) missed New York's last game and is questionable this week, as is guard Chris Snee (knee).

Dog days

Underdogs have dominated the rivalry since 2005, covering the spread in each of the last 10 matchups and winning eight of those outright. The Eagles extended that streak this season by pounding the Giants 40-11 as one-point home dogs in Week 8.

Philadelphia also won two of the three games between the clubs last year, including a 23-11 road victory in the second round of the playoffs.

The road team has won four of the last five meetings and seven of the last 10.

Philly hasn't swept the season series from New York since 2004, when the Eagles went to the Super Bowl.

X-factor

The Eagles continue to work Michael Vick into their offense.

The backup quarterback completed both his passes last week for 48 yards and a touchdown, also running for a score in his victorious return to Atlanta.

"Every week is different with him," Philly coach Andy Reid said when asked how many snaps Vick might see Sunday. "It wasn't (more plays last week) because he was in Atlanta, but it worked out that way. We don't have a set number."

Revenge factor

New York hasn't forgotten the 40-17 beatdown the Eagles gave them earlier this year

The Eagles racked up nearly 400 yards of offense in that game and led 30-7 at halftime.

"I think we owe them a good licking," said Giants safety Michael Johnson. "We owe 'em a physical game. We need to be physical with 'em. Because they out-physicaled us last game."

Farewell

Sunday's game will likely be the Eagles' last at Giants Stadium.

The long-time home to the Giants and Jets will be replaced next year by a billion-dollar stadium next door at the Meadowlands.

Philly kicker David Akers won't mind. He has struggled with the unpredictable winds at Giants Stadium, making only 11-of-20 field-goal attempts when facing the Giants.

Philadelphia has won 19 of 35 meetings with the Giants in East Rutherford.

Trends

Philly is 16-7 ATS in its last 23 road games and 4-1 ATS in its last five December games. However, the Eagles are 2-7-1 ATS in their last 10 games as road favourites of three points or less.

The Giants are 16-5-1 ATS in their last 22 games as an underdog and 6-1 ATS in their last seven as dogs of three points or less. But New York is also 1-6 ATS in its last seven overall.

The under has cashed in five of the last seven games between Philly and New York, and in 13 of the past 16 at Giants Stadium.

Sunday’s NFL Line Report
By Randy Scott

Denver Broncos at Indianapolis Colts (-7, 44)

Opening Line: 7, 44.5

Where the early action is: 80 percent - Broncos

Comments: This should be a great game. The Broncos have won two in a row after a four game losing streak and are looking like that 6-0 team we saw at the beginning of the season. That reasoning, along with 7 points is pushing the bettors to wager against the Colts this week. The undefeated Colts are 2-3-1 ATS at home. Seven points might be too much here and if we don’t see some money come in on the Colts by early Sunday, this line will drop off the key number.

Fact: Peyton Manning has averaged 417.5 passing yards in two playoff wins against Denver.

Cincinnati Bengals at Minnesota Vikings (-6.5 -115, 43)

Opening Line: 6.5, 44

Where the early action is: 63 percent - Vikings

*Wise Action: Under 44

Comments: The Vikings were handed their second loss of the season last week in Arizona 30-17. Before that game Brett Favre was having a MVP type of year, having only thrown three interceptions prior to the two picks versus the Cardinals. It’s December, and Favre has a history of struggling the last fives games of the season. The Bengals 9-3 record is a bit of a surprise. The surprise is their passing game with seven-year vet Carson Palmer at an all time low (21st in the league in passing) and their running game with three different backs ranking 6th in the NFL. The wise guys are betting on the under here and there is no reason not to follow that play. The Bengals defense ranks first in points allowed (15.6 ppg), first in rushing yards allowed (81.8 ypg) and fourth in total yards allowed. The Vikings defense ranks 2nd in rushing yards allowed (84.2 ypg) and 8th in total yards allowed.

Fact: It’s been eight consecutive games in which the Bengals have not allowed 100 yards rushing – a franchise record.

New York Jets at Tampa Bay Buccaneers (+3 +105, 36.5)

Opening Line: 3 -125, 37

Where the early action is: 95 percent - Jets

Comments: Jets quarterback Mark Sanchez (knee) is expected to miss the game. Even so, the bettors are 95 percent heavy on the Jets. The Bucs are a one-win team this season and they’ve averaged only 15.6 points per game – good for the 29th ranking in the league. They’ve been an automatic fade all season long and that betting trend continues this week, but don’t expect the line to move off the key number three – only juice will be added to the favorite.

Fact: Jets backup quarterback Kellen Clemens has thrown just eight passes since the end of the 2007 season.

Buffalo Bills at Kansas City Chiefs (+2, 37.5)

Opening Line: Pk, 37.5

Where the early action is: 55 percent - Bills

Comments: Not much interest here. Buffalo is getting some sharp attention but not much.

Fact: Kansas City leads the league in dropped passes with 37 through 12 games.

Green Bay Packers at Chicago Bears (+4 -105, 41)

Opening Line: 3 -120, 43.5

Where the early action is: 99 percent - Packers

*Wise Action: Under 43.5

Comments: Everyone is backing the 8-4 Packers this week. Green Bay is making a strong playoff push winning four in a row .The Bears are 5-7 and can only play the spoiler role here, and what better of a spot against their archrivals at home. This game has some wise action on the under, which brought the total down to 41. The Packers defense ranks first in yards allowed per game at 273.5, third in passing yards (186.3 ypg) and fourth in rushing yards allowed (87.2 ypg). The Bears offense ranks 31st in rushing and 24th in total yards. Jay Cutler has 17 touchdown passes and 20 picks this season. This is an enormously lopsided matchup on paper and will likely be the same on the field. Expect the line to continue to grow.

Fact: In their first meeting this season the Bears sacked quarterback Aaron Rodgers four times and limited him to only 184 passing yards.

New Orleans Saints at Atlanta Falcons (+10.5, 49.5)

Opening Line: 10.5, 50

Where the early action is: 90 percent – Falcons

Comments: Atlanta’s injuries to quarterback Matt Ryan (toe and running back Michael Turner (ankle) are absolutely huge to this team, but there is more. The Falcons also lost their best cornerback Chris Houston this week to a hamstring injury. Now, an already 29th-ranked pass defense just got worse this week. Drew Brees and his top-ranked offense couldn’t ask for a better matchup to continue their perfect season bid.

Fact: The Falcons have yet to lose back-to-back home games under second-year coach Mike Smith.

Detroit Lions at Baltimore Ravens (-14 -115, 39.5)

Opening Line: 13, 39.5

Where the early action is: 65 percent - Ravens

Comments: Detroit quarterback Matthew Stafford (shoulder) was injured last game and is listed as doubtful for Sunday. That moved the line up to 14 and it’s not settling there. The Ravens are still in the playoff hunt with two AFC spots still available so they should come out focused against this 2-10 Detroit team. Baltimore has been double-digit favorites three times this season and they covered those games against the Chiefs and Browns (twice). Just to be sure, however, Ravens teasers bringing the line down to eight or lower is the hot play here. The only team that can beat the Ravens this week is the Ravens themselves – they are the second-most penalized team in the league.

Fact: Baltimore has 90 penalties this season, they had a season high 12 penalties last week in Green Bay.

Miami Dolphins at Jacksonville Jaguars (-2.5 -115, 43.5)

Opening Line: 3 +100, 44

Where the early action is: 70 percent - Jaguars

Comments: This game is huge for both teams. Either team win or lose will cause some big changes to the final spots in the AFC playoff race. The bettors are pretty much split on this one with the early edge going to the home team. However, we anticipate more action to land on the Dolphins by game time, that’s why the early move off of the key number of three. Scattered thunderstorms are forecasted in Jacksonville and with two solid running teams like this…a wet field can have a very big effect on the over/under. Watch for this total to move up close to game time.

Fact: Jaguars running back Maurice Jones-Drew has only one touchdown in the last three weeks.

Carolina Panthers at New England Patriots (-13, 44)

Opening Line: 13.5, 44

Where the early action is: 62 percent - Patriots

Comments: A bit of news this week from the Patriots locker room has the bettors holding off on laying this big double-digit spread. Bill Belichick has disciplined some of his top players and sent them home for trivial reasons – players like Randy Moss and Adalius Thomas. These starters didn’t have a normal practice week so it’s anyone’s guess how much of an affect that will have on them. The Panthers will be without Jake Delhomme again this week due to a broken finger. His backup, Matt Moore, wasn’t really tested last week versus the Bucs. He only threw 20 times for 161 yards with no touchdowns and one interception in a 16-6 win. The Panthers offense ranks third in rushing and the Patriots defense ranks 15th in the league in rushing yards allowed.

Fact: This will be these two teams fourth regular season meeting with the Panthers leading the series 2-1.

Seattle Seahawks at Houston Texans (-7, 44.5)

Opening Line: 6, 44.5

Where the early action is: 65 percent - Houston

Comments: Not a lot of interest in this game. Both teams aren’t going to make the playoffs. The line moved up onto the key number of seven when it was clear quarterback Matt Schaub (shoulder) will indeed play. Houston is 1-4-1 ATS playing at home and Seattle is 1-5 ATS on the road. Flip a coin for best results.

Fact: Houston’s passing offense ranks 4th in the league, while Seattle’s pass defense ranks 25th.

St. Louis Rams at Tennessee Titans (-13, 41.5)

Opening Line: 13, 41.5

Where the early action is: 75 percent – Rams

Comments: Seventy-five percent of the early action is on the Rams but this line will grow anyway. This should be an easy home game for the Titans against a one-win Rams team. Even though their crazy history-making turn around came to an end last week in Indianapolis, expect this team to stay focused in this one. This is the beginning of a three game homestand for the Titans with the Rams, Dolphins and Chargers on deck. The Titans rank 2nd in rushing offense while the Rams rushing defense is 28th in the league.

Fact: The Rams have only scored 14 touchdowns through 12 games.

Washington Redskins at Oakland Raiders (+1 -115, 37.5)

Opening Line: 1, 37

Where the early action is: 66 percent - Redskins

Comments: Because of Washington’s almost win last week at home versus the Saints, the bettors are quick to jump on them this week on the road in Oakland. But we give caution – the Redskins are an 0-6 road team and the Raiders have won two of three and are looking like a very different team with Bruce Gradkowski at quarterback. We think this line should favor the home team and will look to move it that way as soon as the opportunity arises.

Fact: Washington has tallied nine consecutive road losses.

San Diego Chargers at Dallas Cowboys (-3.5, 48.5)

Opening Line: 3, 48.5

Where the early action is: 77 percent - Chargers

Comments: Yes a big percentage of the money is on Chargers who are on a seven-game winning streak – yet the line moves up. We all know the situation Dallas is in, so no need for December stats. It’s simple; you are either buying or selling on the Cowboys down the stretch starting with this game. Under normal line movement circumstances a flip of the coin would be just as good of an ATS pick as any, but the real deciding factor is in the line movement off the key number of three for the unpopular home team - very strong.

Fact: The Chargers rank 21st in rushing yards allowed at 117.8 per game.

Philadelphia Eagles at New York Giants (+1, 44)

Opening Line: PK, 46

Where the early action is: 54 percent - Giants

Wise Action: Under 46 to Under 44.5 and Philly +1

Comments: This Sunday night matchup features a huge NFC East rivalry game and this game will bring in tons of two-way action. It’s basically a pick’em game with the single point moving often along with the money. It’s gone from an opening pk to the Giants -1 early in the week. But as of late a bit of wise action moved the line towards the Eagles. The Eagles dominated their last meeting in Philly, 40-17, so this sets up the Giants for a perfect home revenge game who also need this game to keep their playoff hopes alive. The total has taken some big time wise action. It has dropped consistently off of every number posted 46, 45, 44.5 – and there’s no sign of it stopping on 44 either.

Fact: The Giants secondary has given up 13 touchdowns in the last five games.

Betting the NFL for Week 14
By Doug Upstone

With a quarter of a season to go, the NFL schedule-makers offer us thought provoking matchups that could send teams down different paths than it looked a few weeks ago. The Cincinnati offense has been languishing, despite adding up victories and figures to have to score at Minnesota. Denver has rebounded with a couple of wins, can they put the brakes on Colts perfect season? The Cowboys final month travails are potentially enhanced with a wicked December slate, now having to face one of the hottest teams in the league from San Diego. Miami and Jacksonville doesn't generate much buzz outside of the sunshine state, yet both are still in AFC playoff hunt. New England, what is going on? Carolina is about to find out.

Cincinnati at Minnesota

Intra-conference division leaders collide in Minnesota, with each hoping to get closer to locking down their titles. The Vikings (7-4-1 ATS) are 10-2 after losing at Arizona. The other loss was of course, at the hands of Cincinnati's rival, the Steelers. The Bengals (6-6 ATS) are 9-3, embarking on a road trip that features stops at the Metrodome and at San Diego. They will be the underdog in both, which may be a welcomed sign for Marvin Lewis, whose team is a perfect 6-0 SU and ATS in the dog role this season. They are also 3-0 vs. the NFC and have gone 6-1 ATS in their last seven overall vs. the opposite conference. Minnesota is 0-6 ATS at home under Brad Childress in the final four weeks of the regular season. The host has been less than cordial in last three meetings between these teams, winning by 17.7 points per game.

Keys to the Game-

Cincinnati has established they can run the ball, ranking sixth at 133.9 yards per game. It is now time to fix the passing game, which has averaged 156.5 yards per game the last month. That might work against the three crummy teams they just played (though they failed to cover each contest), but it won't cut it come playoff time. No Chris Henry in the slot weakens Bengals passing, however somebody has to take the challenge and Carson Palmer has to be more precise. The Bengals defense has incurred far more injuries than the offense and they keep playing at high level. They will have to on Vikings carpet, first containing Adrian Peterson and then pressuring Brett Favre similar to what Arizona did last week. If not, Cincy falls to 2-10 ATS on the road off a SU non-division victory.

After a slower than expected start, the Minnesota run defense has moved up to second in the NFL. (Behind the Bengals) The front four is going to have to make a few more plays with middle linebacker E.J. Henderson gone for the year. Rookie Jasper Brinkley has to make enough plays to cover up for the loss. The Vikings have to force Cincinnati to throw the ball. Minnesota is 0-7 ATS home off an upset loss by 10 points or more as a favorite and they will add another if they give Peterson only 13 carries like they did last week. The Cardinals did a great job pestering Favre; still Peterson has to have more touches.

Miami at Jacksonville

Though both Miami and Jacksonville play in the AFC, they aren't exactly rivals, as they meet more in the preseason than they do when it matters. In fact, this will be just the fifth all-time meeting, as each team looks to hang on in the AFC wildcard hunt. The Dolphins (6-6 ATS) are still breathing after upsetting New England, but at 6-6 would need to win out vs. four other fellow contenders to even have a shot. The Jaguars (5-7 ATS) are 7-5, and although their chances are better, their stats (-4.0 PPG margin) and upcoming schedule (Indy, at N.E.) suggest a postseason berth isn't in their future either. Jacksonville moved to 2-4 ATS in 2009 at home (5-1 SU) after defeating Houston and is 3-11 ATS in its last 14 games in a half full stadium. In this series, the Jaguars own a 3-1 SU and ATS edge, having met most recently in 2006 in Miami. Fins now 5-0 SU in December last two years.

Keys to the Game-

Miami offered Jacksonville a new look from last week's game film, they did not run the Wildcat one time. Ricky Williams is more conventional back, and to coach Tony Sparano's credit, he's willing to adjust to need or opponent as Chad Henne checked the pigskin 52 times last week. Being versatile and less predictable is important, but greater point production is needed on the road, where the Dolphins are scoring 17.5 points a game. (28.8 PPG at home) On defense, attack QB David Garrard, who has put the ball on the ground 12 times (eight lost) and seems less confident with collapsing pocket. Miami 8-1 ATS in road games after one or more wins over the last three seasons and has to win fourth quarter like they did against New England, having given up a franchise record 134 points in the last final 15 minutes already.

Like every other opposing team, Miami will try to take away Jaguars run game. Jacksonville must be persistent, since they are 7-1 (5-3 ATS) when they rush 26 or more times and 0-4 SU and ATS when they don't. Jacksonville has to roll Garrard out, since he is sitting duck in the pocket and create three layers in passing game to give him choices. The Jags are deplorable 1-11 ATS as a favorite since last season and they better be prepared for multiple Miami attack or they will be caught off guard like they were against San Francisco two weeks ago.

Denver at Indianapolis

Indianapolis (12-0, 8-4 ATS) remains unbeaten and is already in the uncomfortable position of wondering whether or not to rest starters in its remaining games. The rest of the AFC is hoping that the Colts don't, as Denver (8-4 ATS) is in the thick of a wildcard logjam at 8-4. For head coach Jim Caldwell's team, the Broncos represent the foe on their remaining schedule with the best record, thus potentially the greatest chance for getting knocked off. For the Broncos, this is the first of two tough remaining road games and they are 4-2 SU & ATS away in '09. These teams have become somewhat regular combatants in recent years, and Indy owns a 6-2 SU and ATS record in the series the previous seven seasons. In the last encounters in Indianapolis, the Colts are 3-0 SU & ATS with an average victory margin a colossal 24.7 PPG.

Keys to the Game-

The Colts are going to bring pressure off the edges and Kyle Orton has to be wise to protect the pigskin and not put the ball up for grabs like last week when he was picked three times. Denver's offensive tackles have to use outside leverage to push Indianapolis defensive ends outward and be ready for spin moves to the inside. The Broncos are 29-13 ATS vs. good defensive teams who give up 17 or less points a game and have to take chances on offense and defense to stay close to San Diego in the AFC West. Denver has done fine work in not allowing the deep ball; however Peyton Manning can pick any defense apart strolling down the field. Defensive backs are going to have to take a few risks.

Indianapolis keeps winning and they are attracting sharp action again thanks to running the ball to balance the offense. Joseph Addai has been running with great authority and not coincidently, the Colts have covered last three contests. Look for Manning to be aggressive early and Indy to try and build quick, forcing Denver out of their game plan, making their ability to get after Orton more effective. The Colts are 20-7 ATS after two consecutive covers as a favorite.

Carolina at New England

The Patriots (6-6 ATS) have lost three of their last four games to slip to 7-5 on the season, just a game up on both Miami and New York for the AFC East title. New England's remaining schedule is very manageable, starting with this contest vs. Carolina, so you have to still like their chances. Over the last 4+ seasons, the Pats are just 4-5 ATS hosting NFC foes. They are a perfect 6-0 SU at home this year, having covered four of those games while winning by 18.2 points per game. The Panthers are 5-7 and ATS after beating Tampa Bay, but relegated to the spoiler role the rest of the way, facing teams with a combined winning percentage of 77 percent over the final four weeks. Carolina is 0-3 SU & ATS vs. AFC East foes in this season after a 4-0 ATS non-conference mark a year ago.

Keys to the Game -

Carolina won last week but was outgained by 160 yards by the Bucs. It's hard to fathom last Sunday's ultra-conservative approach will work on the road, let alone in New England. The Patriots are ordinary against the pass and if backup Matt Moore is good enough to be on your roster as a professional quarterback, let him act like one and throw the ball down the field. The Panthers have to play the perfect game or be completely out of character. The former hasn't happened much, so big daring, run Steve Smith out of the wildcat, throw on first down, send seven pass rushers at Tom Brady, anything to give yourself a more unique chance to win. The Cats are 10-1 ATS vs. opponent off consecutive losses, with the last being as a favorite.

It's evident things are out of whack in Billy's world. Last quarter losses with leads, offense inefficient in the red zone and sending players home being late for meetings, at least where the media picks up on it. It's been coming and New Orleans perfected it, rush three and double Randy Moss and Wes Welker, forcing Brady to find alternative. This is test for Moss to show how badly he wants to win, fighting to get open and not giving off visibly bad body language. Patriots have to stout in the middle to corral Panthers running game. Force Moore to beat you thru the air. With Carolina's presumably limited offense, New England is 22-7 ATS when they are outgain their opponents by 100-150 yards.

San Diego at Dallas

Dallas continues its most difficult stretch of the season when it hosts the Super Chargers (Chris Berman reference). San Diego (6-6 ATS) has won seven straight games to reach 9-3 and has its sights set on a first round bye. Under Norv Turner, this has been the time of the year where the Chargers have played their best football, boasting an 8-2 ATS December mark. They are also 8-1 ATS in the second half of the season vs. good offensive teams gaining 5.65 or more yards per play in his tenure. Dallas (6-6 ATS) averages a lofty 6.7 YPP but finds itself in a tight NFC East race after losing to New York. Since dropping the new stadium opener, the Cowboys have won five straight at home, holding three teams to a TD or less while going 4-1 ATS. They are on a 3-7 ATS slide vs. the AFC, including 2-3 ATS at home.

Keys to the Game-

Dallas averages five yards per carry and San Diego is 21st versus the run. The Chargers are going to have to find a way to stop the terrific trio of Cowboys running backs. Lost in the winning streak is faulty tackling that has permitted foes to gain more yards than they should. Be dogmatic in wrapping up and keep a steady beat on Tony Romo to force miscues. Phillip Rivers offense has nabbed a 7-0 lead in six of the wins during this streak, which has allowed San Diego to set tempo. Do it to Dallas and 25-10 ATS road record vs. the NFC is within reach.

The Cowboys started December in New Jersey playing like they were waiting for something bad to happen and when it did; players in the foreground and background were seen shaking their heads. Championship teams don't dwell, they move on to next play which is what the Cowboys have to do. San Diego is going to make great plays and force bad plays; it's how Romo and the defense react to situations that will shape this NFC-AFC matchup. The Chargers have a full arsenal, controlling check-downs or predesigned passes to LaDainian Tomlinson and Darren Sproles forces Rivers to look elsewhere.

Tips and Trends

San Diego Chargers at Dallas Cowboys

Chargers: San Diego is streaking, as they've won 7 consecutive games SU to improve their record to 9-3. Like Dallas, the Chargers are 6-6 ATS this year, including a road record of 3-3 ATS. This will be the 3rd game this season the Chargers have been listed as the underdog, going 1-1 ATS in the previous two games. QB Phillip Rivers is having an MVP caliber season, throwing for over 3,300 YDS with 21 TDs against 6 INTs. Rivers has a QB rating of 104.9, which is 3rd best in the league. With Rivers leadership, this Chargers offense averages 28.5 PPG on the season. They've scored 30 or more PTS in 4 straight games. This Charger defense still must improve on stopping the run, as they are allowing an average of 118 YPG on the ground. San Diego has won a league record 15 consecutive games in the month of December.

Chargers are 8-2 ATS last 10 games in December.
Over is 10-4 last 14 games following a SU win.

Key Injuries - LB Shawne Merriman (foot) is questionable.
T Marcus McNeill (ankle) is questionable.

PROJECTED SCORE: 27

Cowboys (-3, O/U 48.5): The jury is out on this Cowboys team. They are tied for 1st in the NFC East, yet haven't had a winning December since 2001. Dallas is 8-4 SU and 6-6 ATS this season. The Cowboys are 4-2 ATS at home this season, having won 4 of those games by double digits. Only 1 other time this season have the Cowboys been favored by so little at home, with the last time being an outright loss to the Giants as 3 point favorites. QB Tony Romo has thrown for 3,325 YDS with 20 TDs against 7 INTs. Romo leads an offense that averages 23 PPG with nearly 400 YPG, which is 3rd most in the NFL. WR Miles Austin has been a revelation this year, as he has over 900 YDS receiving with 9 TDs. The Cowboys defense has played well up to last week, where they had held opponents to 17 PTS or fewer in 5 of their last 6 games. For the season, the Cowboys allow 17.8 PPG which is the 5th fewest points in the NFL.

Cowboys are 4-1 ATS last 5 games as a home favorite.
Over is 13-6 last 19 home games vs. a team with a winning road record.

Key Injuries - TE Jason Witten (foot) is questionablew.
LB Demarcus Ware (wrist) is questionable.

PROJECTED SCORE: 28 (OVER - Total of the Day)

Philadelphia Eagles at New York Giants

Eagles: Philadelphia is tied with the Cowboys atop the NFC East with a record of 8-4 SU. The Eagles are 7-5 ATS, including a road record of 4-2 ATS. The Eagles have played 3 games as underdogs this year, going 1-2 both SU and ATS. With a win today, the Eagles will have won 4 consecutive games against the Giants, postseason included. QB Donovan McNabb averages nearly 250 passing YPG this year, including 16 TDs. McNabb has had to share the QB position with both Kevin Kolb and Michael Vick this year due to injuries. Even with injury concerns at the skill positions, the Eagles average 27.3 PPG which ranks them 5th in the NFL. Young WRs DeSean Jackson and Jeremy Maclin combine to have nearly 1,400 YDS receiving and 11 TDs. This Eagles defense allows 19 PPG, but has a knack for making the big play. They have 20 INTs and 33 sacks, ranking in the top 6 in the NFL in both categories.

Eagles are 6-1 ATS last 7 road games vs. a team with a winning home record.
Over is 22-6 last 28 games as an underdog.

Key Injuries - T Jason Peters (head) is questionable.
RB Brian Westbrook (concussion) is doubtful.

PROJECTED SCORE: 20

Giants (-1, O/U 44.5): The Giants run for 5 consecutive seasons in the playoffs is in serious jeopardy. The Giants come into tonights revenge game at 7-5 SU for the year. The Giants are 5-6-1 ATS this season, including a home record of 2-2-1 ATS. New York has lost 6 of their past 7 games ATS. The Giants lost by 23 to the Eagles in Week 8 of this season as 1 point favorites. QB Eli Manning leads an offense that averages 25.3 PPG, which is 8th best in the NFL. Manning has thrown for over 2,900 YDS with 20 TDs against 11 INTs. WR Steve Smith is 2nd in the NFL in receiving YDS with 979. The Giants are still playing good defense, as they have given up the 6th fewest yards in the NFL. They have allowed points to be scored though, as they give up 23.8 PPG on the season. This defense has allowed 6 of their past 7 opponents to score 24 or more points against them.

Giants are 0-5 ATS last 5 games as a favorite.
Over is 4-0 last 4 vs. NFC East.

Key Injuries - RB Ahmad Bradshaw (ankle) is probable.
G Chris Snee (knee) is probable.

PROJECTED SCORE: 27 (Side of the Day)