NFL Football News and Notes Sunday 12/6

Trend Setters - Week 13
By Kevin Rogers

The intrigue is picking up around the NFL with just five weeks remaining until the postseason. Early on in the season, the favorites were cashing at a ridiculous clip, but now the underdogs are getting back in the game. The Week 13 card provides bettors with eight road favorites, including a pair of teams listed as 'chalk' of at least 9 ½ points on the highway.

Eagles (-5½, 44) at Falcons

For the first time this season, the Falcons will be listed as a home underdog, as both Atlanta and Philadelphia have major players sitting out this week. The Falcons are without quarterback Matt Ryan, who suffered a toe injury in last week's victory over the Bucs. The Eagles are missing two of their big-play threats as RB Brian Westbrook and WR Desean Jackson are suffering from concussions. And oh by the way, Michael Vick makes his much-anticipated return to Atlanta for the first time since 2006.

Under Mike Smith, the Falcons are 9-4 ATS at home, but all 13 of those games were with Ryan under center. Chris Redman will get the start at QB for Atlanta, as the former Louisville signal-caller threw for 243 yards and two touchdowns in the Tampa Bay victory. Atlanta did not cover last week, but this situation sets up nicely for the Falcons. Atlanta is 8-2 ATS the last ten games when coming off an ATS loss. Also, the Falcons have not been involved in a string of low-scoring contests, as Atlanta is 7-1 to the 'over' the last eight off an 'under.'

The Eagles are coming off a SU win over Washington, but failed to cover as 9 ½-point favorites. Philadelphia has not been profitable in this spot, going 0-7 ATS the last seven games as a favorite off a SU win/ATS loss. The Eagles have not had a letdown effect following a division victory, going 11-6 ATS since 2004 after beating an NFC East opponent.

Broncos (-4½, 38) at Chiefs

These two AFC West rivals meet up for the first time this season, as Denver finally snapped a four-game skid last Thursday with a convincing victory over the Giants. The Broncos are still in the AFC Wild Card race at 7-4, while sitting one game behind the Chargers for the division lead. The Chiefs had their two-game winning streak snapped, as Kansas City was slaughtered in San Diego.

The Broncos have some negative trends going against them this week at Arrowhead, as Denver is 2-12 ATS off a SU underdog win when facing a division opponent. Also, the Broncos are just 2-5 ATS the last three seasons as a road favorite, including the 27-17 loss at Washington as 3 ½-point 'chalk.'

The home team has dominated this series over the years, going 9-1 SU and 7-3 ATS the last five seasons, while the underdog is 5-2 ATS the previous seven meetings. The Chiefs are 6-4 ATS the last ten games in a home division contest when coming off a road game, including a 33-19 victory in 2008 over Denver as nine-point home 'dogs.

Lions at Bengals (-13, 42) - 1:00 PM EST

This isn't one of the sexier games on the slate, but both of these teams have less than positive trends staring them in the face. Cincinnati has taken care of its business inside the AFC North, going a perfect 6-0, while owning a two-game lead over Pittsburgh and Baltimore with five games to go. The Lions, meanwhile, continue to be one of the league's doormats, now going 3-32 SU the last 35 games.

Detroit was a solid play last season when receiving double-digits, going 7-1 ATS. This season has been a completely different story, as the Lions are 1-5-1 ATS when getting at least ten points. However, Detroit is 5-2-1 ATS since 2005 on the road against AFC opponents.

The Bengals have been automatic as underdogs this season, going 6-0 ATS. When Cincinnati lays the points, it's smart to get on the other side, as the Bengals are 0-5 ATS as a favorite, and are 1-7 ATS the last eight as a home favorite.

Cowboys (-2½, 45½) at Giants

The Giants try to bounce back after a solid start, as New York goes for the season sweep of Dallas. The G-Men began 5-0, but all of the sudden have lost five of six, including dropping five straight ATS when laying points. The Cowboys have impressed many in the post-Terrell Owens era, but now Dallas enters "Big D," the month of December.

Dallas has been horrendous in the final month of the regular season under Tony Romo, going 2-10-1 ATS in December since 2006. Another dastardly trend is the 1-7 ATS mark the Cowboys own in December playing on the road against an opponent off a double-digit SU loss.

The Giants have thrived in this role, compiling a 13-2 ATS record as 'dogs against a division foe off a SU non-division win, as the Cowboys beat the Raiders on Thanksgiving. Under Tom Coughlin, the Giants are 10-5-1 ATS against NFC East opponents at home, as New York is 3-2 ATS in this situation when getting points.

Chargers (-13, 43) at Browns

San Diego is cruising along, as the Chargers are trying to get in a position for a first-round bye in the AFC playoffs. The Browns, meanwhile, are looking to position themselves in the top spot in April's draft, coming into Sunday's contest at 1-10.

Some interesting league-wide trends apply here, as both the Chargers and Browns are riding significant streaks. San Diego has won six straight, as double-digit road favorites off five-game winning streaks or better since 1992 are just 8-16-2 ATS. Cleveland has dropped five in a row, as double-digit home underdogs off five-game skids or longer are 10-7-2 ATS since 1992.

In Norv Turner's coaching career, his teams have responded well against teams that are struggling. Turner's squads are 14-2 ATS as a favorite off a SU win against an opponent off consecutive SU losses, including the 32-3 blowout at Denver.

Both these teams have not succeeded in this pointspread range, as the Bolts are 2-7 ATS the last nine when laying double-digits. On the flip side, the Browns own a 2-7 ATS mark in their last nine games when receiving at least ten points.

Week 13 NFL games

Broncos (7-4) @ Chiefs (3-8)-- McDaniels coached Cassel to 11-5 record last year with Patriots; he should know him well. Denver snapped a 4-game skid beating Giants last week, they're 1-4 when they allow 20+ points. 6-0 when they allow less. Chiefs scored 16 or less points in seven of last ten games. KC upset Steelers in last home game, but it was their first win in five home tries. In five of seven Denver wins, they held opponent to 10 or less points. In last two tilts, Chiefs allowed 8.5/11.4 ypp. Over is 6-2-1 in last nine Chief games; nine of eleven Denver games stayed under. Home teams are 2-7 vs spread in AFC West games. Broncos were favored in only three of first 11 games.

Raiders (3-8) @ Steelers (6-5)-- Pitt lost last three games, last two in OT, so they need wins to get in playoff hunt; Roethlisberger expected to be back in starting lineup, but Dixon played OK in first start last week. Steelers are 4-1 at home, 2-3 as home favorite, with wins by 3-4-13-10 points. Raiders are 1-4 in last five games, are 2-3 as road dog, losing away games by 23-37-8-17 points. Oakland averaged under six yards/pass attempt in nine of last ten games. Pitt has 27 sacks in last seven games. AFC West road underdogs are 4-7 vs spread in non-division games; AFC North home favorites are 5-3. Under is 7-3 in last ten Raider games, 4-1 in last five Steeler tilts.

Texans (5-6) @ Jaguars (6-5)-- Houston lost last three games to Colts/Titans, missing tying FGs twice, blowing 17-0 lead in third game; Texans lost 31-24 at home to Jaguars in Week 3 (-3.5), fumbling on goal line when trying to score a tying TD. Jaguars scored 17 or less points in al five losses; eight of Houston's 11 opponent scored 20+. Texans are 3-2 on road, losing 28-21 at Arizona (did tie game after being down 21-0 at half), 20-17 at Indy. Jax is 4-1 at home, with last three home wins all by three points. Houston has 30 penalties for 304 yds in their last three games. Under is 5-2-1 in last eight Houston games. Home teams are 2-6 vs spread in AFC South games.

Titans (5-6) @ Colts (11-0)-- Streaking Titans are 5-0 with Young starting at QB; they lost 31-9 at home to Colts in Week 5 (+4), averaging just 4.3 ypp, never getting inside Indy red zone. Colts outgained them 367-245. The key to beating Colts is maintaining ball, keeping Manning off field; in last six games, Tennessee has run ball for average of 200.2 ypg, with Johnson only third RB ever with six straight games of 125+ yards- Titans converted on 23 of last 46 third down plays, as Young's legs keep chains moving. Colts are 1-4 as home fave, with wins by 2-17-4-1-3 points. Titans held last three opponents to 73.7 rushing yards/game; they're 3-3 vs spread as underdog.

Eagles (7-4) @ Falcons (6-5)-- Michael Vick returns to Georgia Dome with an Eagle squad that is 3-2 on road (wins by 28-10-4, but loss at Oakland), 5-3 as a favorite 3-1 on road. Ryan is out for Atlanta; backup Redman led Falcons to win last week, but that game was only second time this year Atlanta got just one offensive TD in a game. Falcons ran ball for just 90-75 yards in last two games, after averaging 173 in three gsmes before that. Philly lost the turnover battle in three of four losses; they're 6-1 when they're even or positive in TO ratio. Over is 8-3 in Philly games. NFC East road favorites are 5-6 vs spread out of division. NFC South underdogs are 6-10, 1-4 at home.

Lions (2-9) @ Bengals (8-3)-- Hard to lay double digits with Bengals, since in last seven games, they've topped 18 points once; Cincy is 0-5 as favorite this year, winning home games by 3-35-10-9 points. Bengals ran ball for 177-210 yards in last two games, but in last three, they scored one FG on nine drives that started 80+ yards from goal line- they have just two offensive TDs on last 29 drives, but addition of RB Johnson should help. Lions are 0-4-1 as road dog this year, losing away games by 18-24-26-12-17 points, allowing 18 TDs on 45 drives in road games. AFC North home favorites are 5-3 vs spread. NFC North road dogs are 0-6 vs spread in non-division games.

Saints (11-0) @ Redskins (3-8)-- Tough spot for Saints, travelling on a short week after emotional win over Patriots; defensive coordinator Willaims once worked for Redskins, doubt his defense takes this game for granted. Redskins' QB Campbell got knocked silly on the last play last week; not sure if he had concussion. Redskins lost six of last seven games, losing brutal games to Dallas (7-6), Eagles (27-24) the last two weeks- they're 5-2 against spread as dog this year. Saints scored 28+ points in each of their last seven games. Four of last five Washington games went over the total. NFC South favorites are 4-0 vs spread in non-division games. NFC East home underdogs are 0-4.

Buccaneers (1-10) @ Panthers (4-7)-- Tampa scored TDs on defense, special teams in first meeting, still lost 28-21 at home to Carolina in Week 6 (+3.5), as Panthers had 267 rushing yards, outgained Bucs 322-245, despite averaging a mere 3.8 ypp. Delhomme has bum finger, could sit for Feeley here; he threw four INTs in 17-6 loss at Swamp last week. Bucs lost to Atlanta's backup QB last week; they're 3-1 vs spread since their bye, are 3-2 as road dogs, but also allowed 29.6 ppg in last seven games (24 TDs on 84 drives). Six of Carolina's last nine games stayed under total. Road team is 5-2 vs spread in NFC South games this season. Panthers are 1-3 against spread as a favorite this year.

Rams (1-10) @ Bears (4-7)-- St Louis was down three offensive linemen at end of bitter home loss to Seattle (previously winless on road) last week, so hard to back them here, especially since backup QB Boller is mistake-prone in key spots, even though he has better skills than injured starter Bulger. Rams' last two road games were both decided by FG, after they scored total of seven points in losing first three road efforts, by combined score of 72-7. Chicago is 1-6 since its bye, losing last four games by combined score of 111-57- they're 3-1 vs spread as favorite this year, but lost last two home games after winning first three by 3-24-24 points. NFC West road underdogs are 9-4 vs spread.

Chargers (8-3) @ Browns (1-10)-- Cleveland is 0-4 at home, losing by 14-3-28-16 points, losing last two by combined score of 47-3. Browns scored three TDs on 45 drives at home; they're so bad, playing four of last five at home is not going to help. Chargers won last six games, covering last four; they're 4-1 on road, losing at Pittsburgh, winning by 4-30-1-29 points. San Diego covered four of last five games as favorite-- they have seven takeaways in last two games, going +3 in turnovers in both games. AFC West favorites are 3-2 in non-division games; AFC North underdogs are 5-6, 0-3 at home. Four of last five Cleveland games stayed under total.

49ers (5-6) @ Seahawks (4-7)-- Seattle lost 23-10 at Candlestick in Week 2,; it was 13-10 just before half when Hasselbeck got hurt, leaving game for good. Only teams Seahawks have beaten are Rams (twice), Lions, Jaguars- they are 3-2 at home, losing to Bears/Cardinals. 49ers are 4-0-1 vs spread on road, but lost last four SU, by 3-3-4-6 points. Niners allowed 16 or less points in all of their wins, holding four of five victims to 10 or less- they allowed 18+ in their losses. Seattle scored 20+ points in three of last four games; this is their first home game in four weeks. Home teams are 5-3 vs spread in NFC West games. Four of last five Seattle games went over the total.

Vikings (10-1) @ Cardinals (7-4)-- Minnesota won last four games (4-0-1 vs spread); they're 4-1 on road. Warner's status (concussion) is unknown; Cards scored 17 points in six quarters since he left at half two weeks ago. Arizona is 2-3 at home; they're 6-0 when they score 21+ points, 1-4 if they don't- they've allowed average of 150 rushing yards/game in last three weeks, bad news vs balanced Minnesota offense that ran ball for 157 yards/game in three games since its bye. NFC West teams are 6-8 vs spread in non-divsional home games; NFC North teams are 5-7, with favorite 11-1 vs spread in those games. .Four of last five Viking games stayed under the total.

Cowboys (8-3) @ Giants (6-5)-- Two teams going in different directions, with Dallas winning six of last seven games, Giants losing five of last six. Cowboys held last five opponents to 17 or less points, and haven't allowed first half TD in last four contests. Big Blue (+3) won 33-31 at Dallas back in Week 2, even though Cowboys outrushed them 251-97 in home opener in the new stadium. Giants miss MLB Pierce; they've allowed average of 31.7 ppg during 1-5 skid, giving up 24 TDs on last 67 drives, while forcing only nine FG tries. Visitors are 7-1 vs spread in NFC East games this season. Last four Dallas games went under the total. Pretty much an elimination game for the Giants.

Patriots (7-4) @ Dolphins (5-6)-- Short week for Pats, road game after loss on Monday night in Superdome; they are 0-4 in true road games this year, with a neutral site win over Bucs their only win away from Foxboro. Patriots won at home 27-17 over Miami in Week 9; Brady was 25-37/323 passing, in a game where Pats scored one TD, three FGs in Miami red zone. Dolphins are 3-2 at home, losing to the two unbeaten teams; they've outsacked foes 13-1 in their last three games, but playoff hopes took big hit with damaging loss in Buffalo last week. Dolphins' last four home games all went over total. Underdogs are 7-1 vs spread in AFC East games this season.

Monday, December 7

Ravens (6-5) @ Packers (7-4)-- December night game in Lambeau; Packers are 5-2 since bye, winning last three games by 10-6-22 points. Green Bay defense held seven of last eight opponents to 81 or less rushing yards. Baltimore is 0-5 when it runs ball for less than 125 yards. Ravens lost three of last four road games, with lone win at 1-10 Cleveland. After scoring 30+ points in five of its first seven games, Baltimore scored 14.5 ppg in last four, scoring four TDs on its last 43 drives. Rodgers has been sacked 44 times this year, but Ravens are sackless in last two games. NFC North home favorites are 2-7 vs spread in non-division games. AFC North clubs are 5-3 vs number.

Betting the NFL for Week 13
By Doug Upstone

December not only brings the cold winds and frigid temperatures, but a frosty end to many professional teams playoff hopes. The New York Giants are among those that have to come up with a winner, especially playing rival Dallas at home. In a conflict Alfred Hitchcock would enjoy, its the battle of birds down south. For the Eagles and Falcons, its about finding healthy players to perform. Houston blew two leads at home to all but crush their playoff dreams, now they will try and do the same to Jacksonville on the road before all 30,000 Jags fans. Tennessee is living the dream and is halfway to finishing the year 10-0, facing unbeaten Indianapolis. Coach Bill Belichick has been served a piece of humble pie besides the usual pumpkin and will look to regroup in Miami to start an extended winning streak.

Philadelphia at Atlanta

The Eagles and Falcons are two of the handful of teams in contention for the NFC Wildcard spots, so a loss in this head-to-head matchup would be devastating for either. If history is any indication, Atlanta could be in trouble, as Philadelphia (6-5 ATS) owns a 7-3 SU & 8-1-1 ATS edge in the last 10 games of the series. However, most of those matchups were in Philly, evidenced by the fact that the home team is on a 6-1 SU & ATS run in that span. The Falcons are in the middle of a three-game homestand and are 6-5 after beating Tampa Bay. They are 7-4 ATS in 2009, including 4-1 ATS at home. The Eagles, 7-4, begin a critical two-game road set in this one, with the next stop in the Meadowlands. The head-to-head series between these teams has also been low scoring, with seven of the previous going UNDER.

Keys to the Game

In this confrontation of attrition, Philadelphia has the edge, having worked through it. No Brian Westbrook, rookie LeSean McCoy has stepped right in and looked comfortable. Explosive DeSean Jackson out, another rookie Jeremy Maclin steps in. Coach Andy Reid and Donovan McNabb have to work better in the red zone, as K David Akers needs to make appearances for extra points, not field goals. The Eagles too often have played to level of competition, with Falcons missing offensive firepower, go win the game in the first half and stop dawdling like last week against Washington. If they dont, Eagles are unlikely to improve upon December record of 2-10 ATS on the road against non-division team with revenge.

Backup Chris Redman will make his 11th career start filling in for Matt Ryan and has to keep his head from spinning all the way around with the dizzying array of blitzes he is certain to face. Be confident, make the right read and hit the hot receiver. The Falcons offensive line will have to be a difference-maker against 8th ranked run defense. Yes Michael Turner is out and Jerious Norwood is dinged, but they have to create running lanes for plugger Jason Snelling to run thru or 4-14 ATS mark as a home underdog of 3.5 to 7 points is a distinct possibility. The front four has to step up to protect 27th ranked pass defense.

Houston at Jacksonville

The Jaguars and Texans both maintain wildcard hopes but it is getting late for Houston (5-5-1 ATS), who is 5-6 after losing to Indianapolis. They are now 1-4 in divisional games this season, including a 31-24 home loss to Jacksonville back in September. That sets up a nice spot for head coach Gary Kubiaks team who is on a 16-6 ATS run revenging a loss where the opponents topped the 28-point mark. Coach Jack Del Rios team is off another horrible trip west, a 20-3 setback to the 49ers which dropped their record to 6-5. This starts a three-game homestand for the Jaguars (4-7 ATS), who are desperate to improve a 2-11 ATS slide in home games over the last season-and-a-half. Houston, who has played surprisingly well on the road, 7-2 ATS in its last nine and is also 5-2 ATS at Jacksonville since 2002.

Keys to the Game

For whatever reason, quarterback Matt Schaub seems more comfortable on the road than at Reliant Stadium. The Texans score 26.2 points per game away from Houston and 21.3 at home. Schaub has the ability to help his team win three road games in a row, but must avoid throwing interceptions and fumbling like last week to give his club a chance. The Texans are 16-7-1 ATS off consecutive spread losses and have to lower pad level to contain Maurice Jones-Drew or he will run wild vs. defense that allows 4.8 yards per carry (31st).

Jacksonville is being dissed in spite of winning record, however when you have allowed 53 more points than youve scored, scrutiny is sure to follow. The Jaguars pass defense ranks 26th, but Texas will have third new starter this season at left tackle, which means load up on that side and pressure Schaubs backside. The Jags are 1-8 ATS at home against AFC opponents since last year and can turn that number around by getting Jones-Drew started early in piling up yards and deflating Houstons spirit. Jacksonville is really the team with something to play for and has to protect David Garrard, since they are 4-15 SU when he is sacked three times or more.

Tennessee at Indianapolis

When Indianapolis and Tennessee last met, the Titans were a different team. The Colts win in that contest sent coach Jeff Fishers team to 0-5, but since eventually dropping six straight, Tennessee (5-6, 5-5-1 ATS) has come alive, winning its last five games to climb back into playoff picture. This one, in Indy, will be their most difficult task remaining as well, and a three-game homestand is next on tap. The Colts (11-0, 7-4 ATS) have won five of last six games when hosting Tennessee, and are 4-2 ATS in that span. However, they are just 2-7 ATS in their previous nine as a divisional host and 1-4 ATS at home in 09 overall. Looking to remain perfect, head man Jim Caldwells team plays three of its final five games at home. The Titans wrap up their divisional slate this week and are 2-3 SU and ATS vs. AFC South foes.

Keys to the Game

Adrian Peterson might be the best running back in the NFL; nevertheless the hottest is Titans Chris Johnson. The former East Carolina star is the leagues leading rusher at 1,396 yards and is on streak of 125 or more yards in last six contests. Ideally, Tennessee would prefer Johnson to grind out consistent yardage to keep Peyton Manning on the sidelines, but going the distance for six is solid alternative. Vince Young is an incredible story no matter who decided to make him starter. Each game he develops another phase and could give Colts a headache if he leaves the pocket, running or throwing for first downs. Tennessee will be better prepared defensively having complete secondary back, which wasnt the case in the first matchup. Frustrate Indy into kicking field goals and Titans could march to 10-0 ATS in road games after four or more consecutive non-losses against the spread.

The Colts may be 11-0, but the Titans are hot. Manning had four interceptions in first seven games, but has seven picks in last four. No need to give piping-hot club a reason to feel better about itself. With no Bob Sanders at safety, the job likely falls to Melvin Bullitt to spy Young. He has to be physical and remember to take the legs of the tall Texan to prevent big plays. Tennessee is only 4-13 ATS versus excellent offensive teams averaging 375 or more yards per game, put the pressure on their offense to match points by scoring on each possession if possible. Indy linebackers are mostly faceless; however they will have to be at their best to control the speedy Johnson.

New England at Miami

Miamis (5-6 SU & ATS) playoff hopes took a crushing blow when it lost in Buffalo 31-14. They may be relegated now to the spoiler role, and will try to do just that to New Englands quest to obtain the AFCs #2 seed in the postseason. For coach Tony Sparanos team, it was a first divisional ATS loss of the year (3-2 SU & 4-1 ATS). The Patriots (7-4, 6-5 ATS) are 3-1 in division game so far but just 1-3 ATS. Their only loss was at the Jets in Week 2, which snapped a six-game SU & ATS winning streak on the road vs. AFC East foes. This is their second meeting of the season with New England having won the first at home last month, 27-17, failing to cover an 11-point spread. Favorites are on an 8-3 SU and ATS run in the last 11 matchups between these rivals in Miami, and the Dolphins are 2-5 SU & ATS as a home dog under Sparano.

Keys to the Game

It was a rare sight indeed, coach Belichick waving the proverbial white flag in having Tom Brady take a seat this past Monday night in New Orleans. The disappointment was so profound, Brady felt compelled to issue statement - "the mourning period is over", this past Wednesday. This is not Patriots team of earlier this decade, yet they still could win next five games and possibly earn second seed, starting with win in Miami. New England has to let Saints loss go and focus on Ricky Williams, who has raised his level of play since Ronnie Brown went down, having at least 100 yards with three touchdowns in each of the past three games. The Pats are puny 1-4 on the road this season with two covers and better be ready to wrap up Williams if they expect to move to 40-21 ATS in road games versus division opponents.

Coach Sparano is emotional leader and a few times it seems those emotions have gotten the best of him in making questionable decisions that cost the Dolphins who have a thin margin for error. Having tricks and surprises is part of being a good coach, but taking chances for lesser rewards wont have you beat New England. Joey Porter and the Miami defense generated six sacks last week, but none were important in the clutch context of the game, which led to Buffalo upset. The defense can sack Brady on first down, but if they allow him to complete third down pass for first down, it was all for naught. The Fins are just 5-16 ATS at Landshark Stadium since 2007.

Dallas at N.Y. Giants

New York already won in Dallas in Week 2. Another victory over the Cowboys at home gets the Giants (6-5, 5-6 ATS) back into the race for the NFC East title. Currently Tom Coughlins team trails Dallas by two games in the standings, with Philadelphia sandwiched in between. The Eagles are next up for the Giants at the Meadowlands, so this is a critical homestand for New York. Both teams are 2-1 in divisional play so far in 09. At 8-3, the Cowboys (6-5 ATS) face a brutal five-game season ending schedule and havent had a winning post-Thanksgiving campaign since 2004, with unimposing 4-14-3 ATS record in that span. New York is 21-9 ATS under Coughlin vs. offenses gaining 350 or more yards per game. Favorites have won the last four games between these teams in New Jersey and are 4-0-1 ATS. Six of last eight have gone OVER at Giants home.

Keys to the Game

Its about time Dallas puts together a December to remember, instead of how they have failed the last decade (17-29 SU L10Y). It begins with the offensive line, theyve helped Cowboys to No.6 rushing attack (138 YPG), but Tony Romo has already been sacked a career-high 25 times. The Giants sack numbers are down, but they are wholly capable. The Dallas secondary was toasted 330 yards passing in the first meeting however has improved considerably, now up to 14th in yards per pass attempt. The Giants passing game has been mostly ineffective, save the win over Atlanta, there only W in last six outings. Cover up receivers and pressure Eli Manning. Cowboys have to attack aggressively to shake the doldrums of the final month of the season, yet they are measly 10-21-1 ATS on the road off two SU wins.

The Giants have lost their offensive identity. New York is designed to be running team first and in five opening victories they averaged 36 carries per game. In the subsequent six contests, they averaged just over 24 attempts. Dont blame it trailing in losses, as theyve had a second half lead in three of their last encounters. In the NFL, when things are not going well, they tend to snowball and Brandon Jacobs might be Giants only healthy running back. Manning could use the help as he has a stress condition in his right foot, which could account for accuracy issues. The G-Men are 13-4 ATS as an underdog over the last three seasons and D-Line has to bother Romo throughout to protect tremulous secondary.

Total Talk - Week 13
By Chris David

Week 12 Recap

The 'under' went 10-5 (67%) last week but there was some close calls that probably won't be forgotten anytime soon, largely due to missed kicks. The Vikings pounded the Bears 36-10 but Ryan Longwell's missed PAT would've given most 'over' backers at least a PUSH. The Saints and Patriots had the highest total (57) posted on the season. New Orleans cruised past New England 38-17 and had a chance to add on more but Saints' kicker John Carney botched a 37-yard field goal late in the fourth quarter. While those games had easy chances to go 'over' the number, bettors playing the 'under' between Miami and Buffalo were probably a little upset. The Bills held a 17-14 lead with less than three minutes left, which would make most of believe they'll try to run out the clock. Instead they toss a bomb touchdown and get the ball back with two minutes and a 24-14 lead. They pick up the first down, but head coach Perry Fewell decides to run it again and again until they close with a 31-14 victory. Why he doesn't kneel on it is beyond me and probably everybody else who played the 'under' last Sunday. On the year, the 'under' now stands at 88-85-2 (51%) on the season.

Thursday Trend continues

The Jets defeated the Bills 19-13 on Thursday and the combined 32 points fell 'under' the closing total of 37 points. New York held a 16-10 led at the break but the two teams only mustered up two field goals in the second half. Including this result, the 'under' now stands at 7-0 on Thursday this season. Looking ahead to Week 14, another possible low-scoring affair is on tap when Pittsburgh visits Cleveland.

Weather

Former bookmaker Micah Roberts of Stations Casino in Las Vegas pointed out some notes on totals in the month of December and how weather plays a factor in some cities. “Many Sportsbooks in Las Vegas leave off the totals of those teams on parlay cards when they have home games in December just for fear of being locked in all week with a bad number and the possibility that the total will run four to six points by game time, “ explained Roberts. With that being said, keep an eye on our WEATHER REPORT prior to placing your bets.

Divisional Notes – Round 2

Houston at Jacksonville: The 'over' has gone 4-1 in the last five meetings, including the first meeting this season when Jacksonville stopped Houston 31-24 at Reliant Stadium. Before you run to the counter and press the 'over', make a not of these home/away numbers. Houston has seen the 'under' go 4-1 on the road, while Jacksonville has watched the 'over' go 4-1 at home.

Tennessee at Indianapolis: Is Vince Young the answer? Not only have the Titans produced a 5-0 record with him as a starter, but the team has also posted an average of 29 PPG. Surprisingly, the 'under' has gone 3-2 during this stretch even with those numbers. Indianapolis beat Tennessee 31-9 on Oct. 11 and the combined 40 points slid 'under' the closing total of 44. The two teams had 30 points at the half, but only 10 were added to the scoreboard in the final stanza. Eight of the last 10 meetings in this series has gone 'under' the number.

New England at Miami: The Patriots stopped the Dolphins 27-17 on Oct. 8 and the combined 44 points fell 'under' the closing number of 47 but the game did feature five field goals. Last year, both games went 'over' the number, including a 48-28 shootout win by New England at Miami. The Dolphins have seen the 'over' go 5-0 at home this year but the Patriots have seen the 'under' go 4-1 on the road.

Tampa Bay at Carolina: Three of the last four in this series has gone 'over' the number, which includes the first meeting this season. The Panthers beat the Buccaneers 28-21 in a contest that filled with turnovers (5) and touchdowns (2) from the defense and special teams. Will this game be just as sloppy? Carolina is starting backup Matt Moore at quarterback.

San Francisco at Seattle: The matchup between the Seahawks and 49ers has been to gauge total players. The first meeting this season went 'under' but the 'over' was 2-0 last year. Prior to giving up 17 points to St. Louis last week, Seattle allowed 27, 38, 20, 31 and 35 points. San Francisco's defense (23 PPG) has been suspect on the road this year, which has helped the 'over' go 3-2.

Dallas at N.Y. Giants: New York nipped Dallas 33-31 on Sept. 20 and the 'over' was never in doubt. Since that effort, the Cowboys' defense has stifled their next nine opponents to an average of 14.2 PPG. The Giants' defense hasn't had the same success, especially in their last six games (31.6 PPG). The last two head-to-head meetings between these two in New Jersey have seen combined scores of 49 and 51 points posted.

All things balance out?

After watching the 'over' start the year 8-1 on Monday Night Football, the 'under' has cashed the last four weeks. This week, the ESPN crew heads to Lambeau Field for a non-conference battle between Green Bay and Baltimore. Weather reports out of Wisconsin are calling for a lot of precipitation and low temperatures for this game. The Ravens' offense came out of the gates on fire this season, averaging 28.4 PPG in their first seven games. However, the team has only be able to muster up half that number (14.5 PPG) in the last four weeks.

Green Bay's offense (26.9 PPG) has been known to light up the scoreboard as well this year, yet the 'over' has only gone 6-5 on the season. There have been two non-conference matchups on MNF this season, and both have went 'under' the number.

Fearless Predictions

On the year, the Best Bets are 12-11-1 (0) and our teasers are 3-8-1 (-500). The goal is to turn a profit and with five weeks left the deficit is $510. As always, press, pass or fade. Good Luck!

Best Over: Texans-Jaguars 47

Best Under: Cowboys-Giants 45.5

Three-Team Total Teaser (9-Point, +100)
Over Texans-Jaguars 47
Under Cowboys-Giants 54.5
Under Colts-Titans 55

Las Vegas Money Moves
By Micah Roberts

This is the time of the year in Pro Football where the race to the playoffs take center stage along with key injuries and weather. We have already seen several games spreads be affected by the uncertainty of key players due to concussions and we’ll start to get weeks where several games will be affected he snow and worst of all cold winds which drastically affect the side and totals.

Cities like Cleveland, Buffalo, Green Bay, Chicago, Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, and New York will all be primed for a few bad days of weather soon. Denver’s crazy weather changes hourly from beautiful sunny days to a down pour of snow. Many Sports Books in Las Vegas leave off the totals of those teams on parlay cards when they have home games in December just for fear of being locked in all week with a bad number and the possibility that the total will run four to six points by game time.

We saw New England put 59 on the board against Tennessee in early October with snow every where, but because there was no wind Tom Brady was able to throw effectively and almost magically for one of his best days ever.

The slumping Giants have had 10 days to think about their season on the brink after getting beat on Thanksgiving by a then slumping Broncos squad. Sunday’s game against the Cowboys is a must win if the Giants have any ideas of making the playoffs. However, the betting public doesn’t believe in them any more.

The Cowboys opened at 1-point road favorite and has been bet up to 2.5 against the team that beat them in Dallas 33-31 in week two.

All it took was one game to change an impression on the Patriots. Prior to their Monday night loss at New Orleans, The Patriots had been listed as 6.5-point favorites at Miami. Once the game started it was taken off the board and then reset on Tuesday where it opened Patriots minus-4.

The Saints number stayed at minus-10 before and after the Monday night game and currently sits at 9.5 in their game at Washington this week. The Redskins and their top ranked pass defense could give the Saints some fits. The combination of coming off a huge Monday night win on a short week never seems to work out well for teams the following week.

The forecast for Green Bay this Monday night is snow showers and cold. The Packers opened minus-2.5 (-120) and have crossed over 3 to 3.5 (Even). The total in this game has dropped from 44 to 43. Look for that to drop further as game time approaches meaning if you like the under, bet it now.

Minnesota at Arizona
By Brian Edwards

Although New Orleans looked tremendous in its easy blowout win over New England this past Monday, I still contend that Minnesota (10-1 straight up, 7-3-1 against the spread) is the best team in football right now. Forget the Colts and Saints with their unbeaten records, the Vikings look like the team to beat to me.

Now of course, nobody wants to go to the Superdome during the playoffs and that’s why Brad Childress’s team has zero room for error despite a comfortable lead over the Packers in the NFC North. You see, Minnesota’s only loss came at Pittsburgh and the Saints are done playing teams from the AFC.

Therefore, if New Orleans and the Vikings both finish 15-1 in the regular season, a potential NFC Championship Game would be played in Minnesota because the first tiebreaker (after head-to-head meetings, which doesn’t apply here because the Saints and Vikings don’t play each other) is records within the conference.

Kudos to the Saints and Colts for their impressive ledgers, but New England’s 16-0 record two years ago did nothing for them. The Giants won the Super Bowl that year.

If you’re thinking like me, the Vikings can still be had at decent value (plus-425, meaning risk $100 to win $425) for future wagers to win the Super Bowl at most books. They take their act to Arizona this week to face the Cardinals in Sunday’s prime-time affair.

Las Vegas Sports Consultants opened the Vikes as 4 ½-point favorites with a total of 48. At that time, the status of Kurt Warner was in question, but he was upgraded to “probable” on Thursday.

As of early Friday evening, most spots had Minnesota listed as a 3 ½-point ‘chalk’ with the total still at 48. Gamblers can take Arizona (7-4 SU, 6-4-1 ATS) to win outright for a plus-160 payout (risk $100 to win $160).

The Cardinals are coming off a heartbreaking defeat at Tennessee. The Titans converted three fourth-down conversions on a 99-yard game-winning drive that was capped by a Vince Young touchdown pass to rookie Kenny Britt on the final play of the game. On the bright side for Cards’ backers, the line shot up to three and even 3 ½ at some spots when Warner was declared “out” a few hours before kickoff.

Therefore, bettors on Arizona – at least those that placed their bets within an hour of the game starting – either pushed or won in the 20-17 loss.

Minnesota has won four consecutive games, going 3-0-1 ATS, since the aforementioned loss at Pittsburgh. The Vikings have won all four of those contests by 12 points or more. They dealt out woodshed treatment last week in the form of a 36-10 clubbing of Chicago as 12-point home favorites.

The total closed at 47, so ‘under’ backers prevailed thanks to a missed PAT after the Vikings’ final TD in the fourth quarter.

Brett Favre turned in another sensational performance, connecting on 32-of-48 passes for 392 yards and three touchdowns without being picked off. In fact, Favre didn’t throw an interception in the entire month of November.

For his career, Favre has never had fewer than 13 interceptions – until this year, that is. Favre has an incredible 24/3 touchdown-interception ratio in 2009.

He has been spreading the wealth around, too. Sidney Rice is enjoying a breakout campaign in his third season, while Percy Harvin (six receptions, 101 yards and one TD vs. Chicago) appears to be the leading candidate for Rookie of the Year honors. Also, veteran WR Bernard Berrian brought down six catches for 74 yards in last week’s win over the Bears.

Of course, Favre’s cause is aided by the presence of All-Pro RB Adrian Peterson, who has rushed 230 times for 1,084 yards. The Oklahoma product is averaging 4.7 yards per carry and has 12 rushing TDs to his credit. His presence opens up the play-action game that Favre has used to thrive.

Another veteran QB is playing outstanding for Arizona and that would be Warner, who missed last week’s loss at Tennessee with lingering symptoms from a concussion sustained the previous week. For the year, Warner has completed 67.5 percent of his throws for 2,718 yards and a 20/11 TD-INT ratio. He threw five of those picks in one outing, so those numbers are a tad deceiving in that regard.

Warner has two of the best wideouts in football, Larry Fitzgerald and Anquan Boldin. Fitzgerald is on his way to another Pro Bowl, hauling in 75 receptions for 826 yards and nine TDs todate. Boldin has 56 catches for 665 yards and a pair of TD grabs.

Ken Whisenhunt’s squad has been somewhat of an enigma at home this year. For whatever reason, the Cards have been dynamite on the road but mediocre at home. They are 2-3 both SU and ATS at home.

Meanwhile, the Vikings are 4-1 both SU and ATS on the road.

The ‘over’ is 6-5 overall for the Vikings, 3-2 in their road games. However, the ‘under’ is on a 4-1 run in Minny’s last five outings (regardless of the venue). The ‘under’ is 7-4 overall for the Cardinals, 3-2 in their home games.

When these teams met at Arizona last season, Tarvaris Jackson might’ve played his best career game in leading the Vikings to a 35-14 win as four-point road underdogs. Minnesota has a 6-2 ATS record in the last eight head-to-head encounters between these clubs.

NBC will have the telecast at 8:20 p.m. Eastern.

**B.E.’s Bonus Nuggets**

--Arizona owns a 4-0-1 spread record as an underdog this year, but each of those situations was on the road. This is its first home ‘dog spot of the season.

--The Vikings are 2-2 ATS as single-digit favorites in 2009. They have been favored by double digits in each of their last three contests.

--Arizona rookie RB Chris “Beanie” Wells is averaging 4.5 yards per carry and has rushed for a team-high 489 yards.

--Arizona back-up QB Matt Leinart was solid in place of Warner last week, completing 21-of-31 passes for 220 yards with zero TDs or INTs.

--The Falcons will be without QB Matt Ryan and RB Michael Turner for Sunday’s crucial home game against Philadelphia. The Eagles are most likely going to be without explosive WR DeSean Jackson and RB Brian Westbrook remains “out.” As of late Friday afternoon, most spots had the Eagles favored by 5 ½.

What Bettors Need To Know: Vikings at Cardinals
By JON KUIPERIJ

Last year's NFC champion meets the favorite for this year's NFC title when the Cardinals host the Vikings Sunday night.

Minnesota (10-1 straight up, 7-3-1 ATS) holds a three-game lead over Green Bay in the NFC North. Arizona (7-4 SU, 6-5 ATS) isn't quite as comfortable in the NFC West, leading the 49ers by two games.

Line movement

Oddsmakers took their time posting a line for Sunday night's game after Cardinals pivot Kurt Warner (head) was forced to sit out last week’s game against Tennessee. The line finally opened Wednesday, with the Vikings as 4-point favorites. Minnesota was bet up to 4.5 before a big line move Friday dropped the spread to a field goal. The total was sent out at 48 and hasn't moved much throughout the week.

Injury report

The status of Warner was the big question mark this week, but he is listed as probable for Sunday night. Cardinals running back Tim Hightower, who is averaging 4.3 yards per carry and has six touchdowns, is questionable with a thumb injury. Arizona tackle Mike Gandy is nursing an injured pelvis and kicker Neil Rackers' participation in practice this week was limited by a groin injury.

The Vikings will likely once again be without cornerback Antoine Winfield, who has missed Minnesota's last five games due to a toe injury. Tight end Visanthe Shiancoe is also questionable (ribs).

History lesson

Minnesota crushed the Cardinals 35-14 last year in Glendale. Tarvaris Jackson threw four touchdown passes and the Vikings built a 28-0 lead by halftime. Adrian Peterson added 165 yards on the ground for Minny, which was a 4-point underdog.

The Vikings have covered six of the last eight games between the two squads.

No home sweet home

The Cardinals are known for playing much better at home than on the road, but they are the direct opposite this season. Five of Arizona's seven wins have come away from University of Phoenix Stadium, and the Cards have covered only two of five home games.

In its last contest at home, a 31-20 win over the Seahawks in Week 10, Arizona dug itself an early 14-0 hole before rallying.

"I certainly don't think it's our preparation or how we have been working in practice," coach Ken Whisenhunt told the Arizona Republic. "I think it's more about making mistakes at the wrong time."

The Vikings are 4-1 straight up and ATS on the road.

Role reversal

Both teams have drastically improved their weakest unit from a season ago.

Minnesota averaged 23.7 points per game on offense last season, but the addition of Brett Favre has helped the Vikings bump that average up by more than a touchdown. Minnesota ranks second in the NFL with 31.1 points per game.

The Cardinals somehow made it to the Super Bowl last year with a defense that allowed 26.6 points a game. This season, Arizona has shaved that average down to 19.7 points per contest.

Trends

The Cardinals have flourished in the underdog role, beating the spread seven of the last eight times they were catching points. Arizona is also 6-1 ATS versus teams with winning records and 5-1 ATS in its last six as a home dog.

Minnesota is 5-0-1 ATS in its last six against the NFC, 5-1 ATS in its last six on the road and 4-1-1 ATS last six as favorite. However, the Vikings are also 2-6 ATS in their last six against a team with a winning record and 1-6 ATS in their last seven games in December.

The over has cashed at a 19-7 rate in the Cards' last 26 home games and 22-9 in Arizona's last 31 games on grass. Minnesota has gone 9-4-1 to the over in its last 14 road games and 4-1 in its last five games on grass. The under has gone 28-12-1 in the Vikes' last 41 games coming off a win against the spread.

Denver (7-4 SU and ATS) at Kansas City (3-8, 5-6 ATS)

The Broncos aim to keep their playoff position intact when they travel to Arrowhead Stadium to face the division rival Chiefs.

Denver pounded the Giants 26-6 on Thanksgiving night as a 4½-point home underdog, snapping an 0-4 SU and ATS slide that followed a 6-0 SU and ATS start. After four games of allowing 27 points or more, the Broncos’ defense looked more like a unit that, for the season, is yielding just 17.2 ppg (fifth). Denver also stands fifth in total defense (295 ypg), helping compensate for an offense gaining 327.5 ypg (18th) and scoring just 17.8 ppg (24th).

Kansas City followed its huge home upset of the Steelers with a blowout loss at San Diego on Sunday, falling 43-14 as an overwhelming 13½-point ‘dog to end a two-game SU and three-game ATS surge. The Chiefs are among the league’s worst defensively, allowing 392.9 ypg (30th) and 25.6 ppg (28th), and their offense is also well down the list, generating 269.5 ypg (30th) and 16.6 ppg (27th).

Kansas City cashed in both of last season’s meetings with Denver, rolling 33-19 at home as a hefty 9½-point pup in September, then losing 24-17 on the road in December as a nine-point ‘dog. The Chiefs are 5-2 ATS in the last seven meetings, as is the underdog in that stretch, and the Broncs are 1-4 ATS on their last five trips to Arrowhead. In fact, the home team is 12-4-1 ATS in the last 17 clashes.

The Broncos sport positive ATS streaks of 6-1 ATS after either a SU or pointspread victory, but they also carry numerous spread-covering skids, including 1-4 overall, 0-4 in December, 6-21-1 laying points, 5-15-1 in the AFC West, 5-15-1 against losing teams and 6-10-1 as a division road chalk. Also, the SU winner has cashed in Denver’s last 14 starts.

The Chiefs are on ATS runs of 5-2 overall (all as a ‘dog) and 4-0 after a SU loss, but they are just 5-13 ATS in their last 18 games at Arrowhead.

The under is on runs for Denver of 9-2 this season, 11-1 after a SU win, 9-1 after a spread-cover and 7-1 against AFC foes, but the over is on surges for the Broncos of 9-4-1 in December, 11-5 in division play and 13-6 against losing teams. Furthermore, the over is on rolls of 3-1-1 overall for K.C., 6-2-2 with the Chiefs a pup and 18-7-2 with Kansas City getting points at home.

Finally, in this rivalry, the total has gone high in 11 of the last 15 overall and seven of the last eight at Arrowhead Stadium.

ATS ADVANTAGE: OVER

Oakland (3-8, 5-6 ATS) at Pittsburgh (6-5, 4-7 ATS)

The defending Super Bowl champion Steelers, suddenly battling for their playoff lives, hope to take advantage of a break in the schedule as they host the hapless Raiders at Heinz Field.

Pittsburgh went without Ben Roethlisberger (concussion) on Sunday night at Baltimore and came up just short in a 20-17 overtime loss. It was the Steelers’ third straight defeat, though they covered as a hefty nine-point ‘dog, with the QB’s absence driving up the number. Roethlisberger is expected back this week to lead the NFL’s ninth-best total offense (372.4 ypg), and the Steelers rate third in total defense (288.4 ypg) and ninth in scoring defense (18.5 ppg).

Oakland got pelted at Dallas on Thanksgiving in a 24-7 loss as a healthy 13½-point pup, falling to 1-4 SU in its last five starts (2-3 ATS). The woeful Raiders have scored 16 points or less in nine of their 11 games this season and average an NFL-worst 10.5 ppg, behind an offense that nets just 234.4 ypg, ahead of only Cleveland (230.6 ypg).

Oakland is on a 3-1 ATS run (2-2 SU) in this rivalry, most recently winning 20-13 at home as a nine-point pup in October 2006. The underdog is 5-1 ATS in the last six meetings.

The Steelers are 0-4 ATS in their last four starts against losing teams and 4-10 ATS in their last 14 giving double digits, but they still hold positive ATS streaks of 12-5 in December and 7-3 at Heinz. The Raiders are on a 5-2 ATS uptick following a pointspread loss, but they are also 16-37 ATS in their last 53 December starts and 10-23-1 in their last 34 non-division roadies. The SU winner is 9-1 ATS in Oakland’s last 10 games.

Pittsburgh is on “over” runs of 48-22-2 at home, 4-0 after a SU loss and 18-7 against AFC opponents, and the over is 4-1-1 in Oakland’s last six December games. Conversely, the under for the Raiders is on tears of 7-3 overall, 4-1 on the highway, 12-4-1 after a SU loss, 10-4-1 after a non-cover and 41-17-2 against winning teams.

ATS ADVANTAGE: PITTSBURGH

Houston (5-6, 5-5-1 ATS) at Jacksonville (6-5, 4-7 ATS)

The Texans look to get their derailed season back on track when they travel to Jacksonville Municipal Stadium for a divisional clash with the Jaguars.

Houston, which had won three in a row and five of seven, has since dropped three straight games, including two to Indianapolis that were both within the Texans’ grasp. On Sunday, Houston raced out to a 14-0 lead and was still up 20-7 at halftime, then gave up 28 straight points in the second half of a 35-27 loss to the Colts as a three-point home pup.

The Texans have the third-best passing attack in the league (283.1 ypg), but QB Matt Schaub’s turnovers were a killer in both losses to Indy, as he threw two picks in each game, with one returned for a TD Sunday.

Jacksonville, which had also recently surged into the AFC playoff picture, fell to San Francisco 20-3 as a three-point road pup Sunday, halting a 3-0 SU run (1-2 ATS). The Jags, who have failed to cover in six of their last seven games, have the NFL’s eighth-best rushing attack (132.6 ypg) and 12th-best total offense (354.3 ypg), but that’s only netting them 18.4 ppg (22nd). Meanwhile, Jacksonville is allowing 349.5 ypg and 23.2 ppg, ranking 21st on both counts.

Jacksonville dropped Houston 31-24 as a four-point road pup on Sept. 27, ending a three-game ATS run (2-1 SU) by the Texans in this rivalry. Houston is 11-4 ATS in the last 15 clashes overall and 4-1 on its last five trips to Jacksonville, and the pup is 7-3 ATS in the last 10 meetings. Also, the SU winner is 7-1 ATS in the last eight matchups.

The Texans are on ATS streaks of 5-1 after a non-cover, 6-2 after a SU loss, 5-1 in December, 5-1-1 against winning teams and 4-1 in their last five roadies. On the flip side, along with their current 1-6 ATS nosedive, the Jaguars are in pointspread ruts of 2-11 at home, 1-5 in December, 1-4 after either a SU or an ATS loss, 7-19 against losing teams and 4-9 in the AFC.

The under for Houston is on surges of 6-2 overall, 4-0 on the road and 5-1 in conference play, but the over for the Texans is on rolls of 20-7 against winning teams, 19-7 in the AFC South and 18-7-1 after either a SU or an ATS setback. The over for Jacksonville is on runs of 5-1 at home and 4-0 after a SU loss, and in this rivalry, the total has cleared the posted price in four of the last five meetings, including the September contest.

ATS ADVANTAGE: HOUSTON and OVER

Tennessee (5-6, 6-5 ATS) at Indianapolis (11-0, 7-3-1 ATS)

The resurgent Titans take on the still-unbeaten Colts in an AFC South clash at Lucas Oil Stadium.

Tennessee edged Arizona 20-17 Sunday as a one-point home chalk, getting a TD pass from Vince Young to Kenny Britt on the final play of the game to win SU and ATS for the fifth straight week, after an 0-6 SU start (1-5 ATS). The Titans haven’t lost since Young replaced Kerry Collins at QB, but the bigger key has been RB Chris Johnson running all over everybody. He racked up 154 yards on just 18 carries against the Cardinals, including an 85-yard TD, giving him 800 yards and seven TDs during the win streak.

Indianapolis trailed Houston 14-0 early and 20-7 at halftime, then scored 28 straight points on the way to a 35-27 road victory Sunday giving three points, aided greatly by a Clint Session INT return for a TD. The Colts have trailed in each of their last five games, yet came back and won each time (2-2-1 ATS). QB Peyton Manning leads the No. 1 passing offense (305.7 ypg) and No. 5 scoring offense (27.6 ppg), and the defense is yielding just 16.7 ppg (third).

Indianapolis has won SU and ATS in the last two meetings in this rivalry, after a 5-0 ATS run by Tennessee (3-2 SU). On Oct. 11, Indy rolled 31-9 as a three-point road favorite, and the SU winner is 8-2 ATS in the last 10 contests.

The Titans are on a pair 2-5 ATS skids – in the AFC South and against winning teams – but the pointspread streaks head upward from there, including 5-0 overall, 17-7 as a pup, 13-6 as a road ‘dog, 8-1 as a division pup and 10-1 getting 3½ to 10 points. The Colts, meanwhile, are on home ATS skids of 1-3-1 overall and 2-7 in division games, though they remain on ATS upswings of 5-0 against losing teams, 5-1 after a spread-cover, 7-2-1 overall (all after a SU win) and 6-2-1 giving points.

The under for Tennessee is on runs of 6-2 in division play and 13-5-1 against winning teams, and the under for Indianapolis is on rolls of 4-1 in the division and 9-4 in conference action. That said, the over is 4-1 in the Titans’ last five roadies, 17-8-1 in their last 26 December outings and 5-1 in the Colts’ last six against losing teams.

Finally, in this rivalry, the total has stayed low in eight of the last nine meetings overall and in four straight at Lucas Oil Stadium.

ATS ADVANTAGE: UNDER

Philadelphia (7-4, 6-5 ATS) at Atlanta (6-5, 7-4 ATS)

The Eagles pursue their third straight win when they travel to the Georgia Dome for a date with the Falcons, who need a win to stay in the postseason picture.

Philadelphia squeaked past Washington 27-24 Sunday as a heavy 9½-point home chalk, rallying from eight points down in the fourth quarter and winning on a field goal in the final two minutes, but failing to cash for the third time in four weeks. The Eagles are putting up 26.6 ppg (seventh) on 357.1 ypg (11th), keyed by their plus-9 turnover ratio, which rates fourth in the league. QB Donovan McNabb has 15 TDs, against just six INTs.

Atlanta overcame Tampa Bay 20-17 on a last-minute Chris Redman-to-Roddy White TD pass, snapping a two-game SU skid but falling well short as a 12-point home favorite. The Falcons are middle-of-the-pack in total offense at 339.5 ypg (16th), but they’re turning those yards into 24.7 ppg (tied for eighth). Defensively, they are at 27th in yards allowed (373.9 ypg) and 19th in points allowed (22.3 ppg).

Starting QB Matt Ryan suffered a toe injury against the Bucs and has already been ruled out for this week, meaning Redman will get the start. Ryan played just one series last week, and Redman filled in capably by completing 23 of 41 passes for two TDs, with no INTS.

Philly has won six of the last seven clashes (5-2 ATS) between these NFC rivals, including a 27-14 victory in October 2008 as a 9½-point home chalk. The Eagles are 7-2-1 ATS in the last 10 meetings and 3-1-1 ATS on their last five trips to the Georgia Dome. The favorite is on a 5-2 ATS run, and the home team is also 5-2 ATS in that stretch.

The Eagles are on ATS rolls of 15-7 on the highway, 6-1 after a non-cover, 5-2 in December and 6-3 as a non-division road chalk, though they are 1-4 ATS in their last five against winning teams and 2-5 ATS in their last seven after a SU win. The Falcons sport positive pointspread streaks of 4-1 at home, 4-0 after an ATS loss and 4-1 against winning teams, but they are in a 5-16-1 ATS rut as a home pup of 3½ to 10 points.

The under is 21-10-1 in Philadelphia’s last 32 games as a road chalk, but the over for the Eagles is on stretches of 9-3 overall, 7-1 after a non-cover and 7-2 in the NFC. Likewise, the over for Atlanta is on tears of 5-1 overall, 4-0 with the Falcons a ‘dog, 10-2 with Mike Smith’s troops a home pup, 5-1 against winning teams and 20-8 within the NFC.

Finally, in this rivalry, the under is 5-0-1 in the last six meetings overall and has hit in four straight in Atlanta.

ATS ADVANTAGE: PHILADELPHIA

Detroit (2-9, 2-8-1 ATS) at Cincinnati (8-3, 6-5 ATS)

The Bengals resume their postseason push, while the lowly Lions play out the string in a non-conference contest at Paul Brown Stadium.

Cincinnati bounced back from a stunning loss at Oakland with a 16-7 victory over Cleveland on Sunday, but it failed to cover for the second straight week, going off as a heavy 12-point chalk. With RBs Larry Johnson (22 carries, 107 yards) and Bernard Scott (18 carries, 87 yards) filling in for injured Cedric Benson, the Bengals rolled up a whopping 210 rushing yards and still possess the No. 7 rushing attack in the league, at 135.3 ypg.

Cincy also has the No. 1 scoring defense (15.8 ppg) and No. 6 total defense (297.6 ypg).

Detroit couldn’t maintain its momentum from a wild win over Cleveland two weeks ago, getting pounded by Green Bay 34-12 on Thanksgiving as a 12-point home pup. The Lions, who haven’t won consecutive games since Weeks 8 and 9 of the 2007 season, field the NFL’s worst total defense (394.3 ypg) and worst scoring defense (30.5 ppg), while averaging just 17.5 ppg (25th).

These two teams meet regularly in the preseason, but they’ve had just two regular-season meetings this decade, with Cincinnati going 2-0 SU and ATS. Most recently, the Bengals rolled 41-17 as a 10-point road favorite in December 2005.

The Bengals are 5-1 ATS in their last six December starts and 4-1 ATS in their last five following a non-cover, but they also carry negative ATS streaks of 0-4 against losing teams, 1-7 as a home chalk and 3-8-2 as a non-division home favorite. The Lions are loaded with negative ATS strings, including 0-5-1 overall, 0-4-1 on the highway (all as a pup), 1-6-1 as a double-digit ‘dog, 0-3-1 against winning teams and 0-4-1 after a SU loss.

Cincinnati is on “under” tears of 5-2 overall, 12-4-1 at home, 7-0 as a home favorite, 4-0 in December and 6-2-1 against losing teams. On the flip side, Detroit is on “over” streaks of 9-2 in December, 22-8 on the road, 11-3 getting more than 10 points on the highway and 11-4-1 against winning teams.

ATS ADVANTAGE: CINCINNATI

New Orleans (11-0, 8-3 ATS) at Washington (3-8, 5-7 ATS)

The red-hot Saints try to remain unbeaten when they head to FedEx Field to face the struggling Redskins.

New Orleans hammered New England on Monday night 38-17, getting five TD passes from Drew Brees to easily cash as a one-point home favorite. The Saints again proved they can score regardless of the strength of opponent, and they are well ahead of the rest of the league in averaging 37 ppg, with the Vikings six points back in second. New Orleans is also No. 1 in total yards, at 425.9 per game, and its opportunistic defense has the team at No. 2 in turnover margin (plus-12).

Washington gave Philadelphia a tough contest, but ultimately blew an eight-point fourth quarter lead in losing 27-24 as a 9½-point road ‘dog Sunday, though it covered for the third straight week (1-2 SU). The Redskins are near the bottom of the league in total offense (309 ypg, 25th), scoring (15.5 ppg, 29th) and turnover margin (minus-6, 28th). The one bright spot is a defense yielding just 298.3 ypg (seventh) and 18.6 ppg (10th).

Washington has won and cashed in the last two meetings in this rivalry, including a 29-24 home victory as a one-point chalk in Week 2 last year. The road team is 5-1 ATS in the last six contests, and the SU winner has covered in the last eight clashes.

The Saints are on nothing but positive pointspread streaks, including 13-4-1 overall, 20-8 as a favorite, 10-1 laying 3½ to 10 points, 7-1-1 on the road, 6-1 as a road chalk, 7-2 as a non-division road favorite and 6-2 against losing teams. The Redskins are 5-2-1 ATS in their last eight December outings and 4-2-3 ATS in their last nine as a ‘dog, but they are on ATS skids of 6-11-2 overall, 2-9 at FedEx and 4-9-1 following a SU loss.

The over for New Orleans is on a bundle of rolls, including 21-10-1 overall (6-5 this year), 9-1 in December, 20-6-1 against the NFC, 15-6 with the Saints a road chalk and 17-7 after a SU win. The over has also hit in four of the last five for Washington (all as a pup), but the under for the Redskins is on runs of 10-2 at home, 4-1 in December and 11-5-1 in conference action.

ATS ADVANTAGE: NEW ORLEANS

Tampa Bay (1-10, 4-7 ATS) at Carolina (4-7 SU and ATS)

Two teams whose seasons are virtually over get together when the dismal Buccaneers trek to Charlotte to face the division rival Panthers at Bank of America Stadium.

Tampa Bay had Atlanta on the ropes before giving up a TD pass in the final minute, losing 20-17 Sunday, but covering as a 12-point road underdog. The Buccaneers are averaging just 274.8 ypg (29th) and 16.5 ppg (28th), and their defense is also near the bottom of the league, giving up 370.9 ypg (26th) and 28.5 ppg (31st).

Carolina lost to the Jets 17-6 Sunday as a 3½-point road pup and has followed a 4-1 ATS surge by dropping its last two games SU and ATS. The Panthers are putting up just 18.1 ppg (23rd) and have been hampered by a minus-9 turnover margin, the third-worst in the league, with QB Jake Delhomme tossing 18 INTs, tied for the second-highest total in the NFL. However, Delhomme (broken finger) is out with a broken finger, so Matt Moore will start this week.

Carolina is 3-1 SU and ATS in the last four meetings in this NFC South rivalry, including a 28-21 road win last month as a three-point chalk.

The Buccaneers are on ATS slides of 4-9 overall, 1-5 in December, 3-9 after a SU loss, 1-4 after a non-cover and 3-8 against losing teams, and they’ve lost 14 of their last 15 games overall SU (5-10 ATS). The Panthers are on pointspread declines of 1-5 at home, 0-4 as a home chalk and 2-5 after either a SU or an ATS loss, but they also hold positive ATS streaks of 4-0 against NFC foes, 6-1 in December, 5-1 in division play and 8-3 as a division chalk.

The over for Tampa is on runs 12-5 on the road, 8-1 in December and 13-3 against losing teams, and the over is 12-4 in Carolina’s last 16 NFC games and 6-1 in its last seven division starts. However, the under is 15-6 in Carolina’s last 21 home games, 19-7 in the Panthers’ last 26 as a home chalk and 6-2 in the Bucs’ last eight division games. Finally, in this rivalry, the total has stayed low in four of the last five meetings in Charlotte.

ATS ADVANTAGE: CAROLINA and UNDER

St. Louis (1-10, 5-6 ATS) at Chicago (4-7 SU and ATS)

The freefalling Bears look for their first victory since Nov. 1 when they play host to the dismal Rams at Soldier Field.

Chicago got drilled at Minnesota 36-10 Sunday as a 10-point ‘dog, losing SU and ATS for the fourth straight week. The Bears have been held to 21 points or less in eight of 11 games, despite the acquisition of strong-armed QB Jay Cutler, who has been a letdown in heaving a league-worst 20 INTs, offsetting his 16 TD passes. Chicago also has the league’s worst running attack, at 85.1 ypg.

St. Louis fell to Seattle 27-17 last week as a 3½-point home underdog, losing for the third consecutive time SU while also halting a three-game ATS uptick. RB Steven Jackson (238 carries, 1,120 yards, 4.7 ypc) is the NFL’s second-leading rusher, but the Rams are otherwise awful offensively, averaging 310.3 ypg (25th) and just 11.8 ppg (30th). Defensively, it’s just as bad, with St. Louis yielding 374.2 ypg (28th) and 27 ppg (30th).

Chicago is on a 4-0 ATS run (2-2 SU) in this rivalry, winning and cashing in the last two contests, including a 27-3 whipping as a seven-point road chalk in November 2008. The road team is 5-2 ATS in the last seven meetings.

The Bears are 5-1 ATS in their last six laying 3½ to 10 points, but along with their current 0-4 ATS skid, they are mired in ATS funks of 0-5 in the NFC, 1-4 after either a SU or an ATS setback and 3-6-1 as a non-division home favorite.

The Rams are on a 1-20 SU nosedive (9-12 ATS), and they are on pointspread plunges of 2-5 in December, 12-27 after a SU loss and 10-22 as a road pup of 3½ to 10 points. That said, they’ve gone 4-1 ATS in their last five against losing teams and 6-1 ATS in their last seven non-division roadies.

Chicago is on a handful of “under” runs, including 4-1 overall, 4-0 after a SU loss or an ATS setback, 4-1 in conference play and 6-2 against losing teams, though the over is 19-7 in the Bears’ last 26 as a home chalk. For St. Louis, the under is on stretches of 4-1 on the road (all as a pup) and 6-2-1 after a non-cover, but the over has hit in five of the Rams’ last seven games and is on a 10-4-1 December run for St. Louis.

Finally, in this rivalry, the total has stayed low in five of the last seven meetings.

ATS ADVANTAGE: UNDER

New England (7-4, 6-5 ATS) at Miami (5-6 SU and ATS)

The Patriots hope to rebound from a nationally televised beatdown when they head to South Beach for an AFC East clash with the Dolphins at LandShark Stadium.

New England gave up five Drew Brees TD passes in a much-anticipated Monday night showdown, getting blown out 38-17 at New Orleans as a one-point pup. New England, which has followed a 5-1 SU run by losing two of its last three (2-1 ATS), still sports the NFL’s second-most prolific offense, at 411.5 ypg, while scoring 27.9 ppg (fourth). They also carry a solid plus-10 turnover margin (third), while allowing just 18.4 ppg (seventh).

Miami had a two-game win streak (1-1 ATS) end with a 31-14 loss at Buffalo as a 3½-point road favorite. Scoring defense has been an issue for the Dolphins, who are giving up 25 ppg (26th) on 341 ypg (19th), while putting up 23.3 ppg (13th) on 317.9 ypg (22nd). Despite the loss of RB Ronnie Brown, Miami’s running game still rates third at 156.1 ypg, with Ricky Williams putting up three straight games of 102 yards or more.

New England dropped Miami 27-17 four weeks ago, winning for the fourth time in the last five games in this rivalry (2-3 ATS), but falling just short as a 10½-point home favorite. The road team has now cashed five straight times.

The Patriots are on positive ATS runs of 38-18-1 in roadies, 15-4 in non-division road tilts, 18-7 as a road chalk, 5-1 against losing teams, 21-5-1 after a SU loss and 8-2-1 after a non-cover. The Dolphins are a dismal 14-37-1 ATS in their last 52 games at Land Shark (1-4 ATS as a home pup), but they are on ATS upticks of 6-1 in division play, 4-1 as a ‘dog and 4-1 against the AFC.

The under for New England is on streaks of 3-1-1 overall and 5-1 on the highway, but the over is on surges of 4-1 in December, 3-1-1 after a SU loss and 5-2 after an ATS setback. In addition, the over for Miami is on rolls of 6-2 overall, 5-0 at Land Shark, 4-1 with the Dolphins a home pup and 4-1 in division play.

ATS ADVANTAGE: NEW ENGLAND and OVER

San Diego (8-3, 6-5 ATS) at Cleveland (1-10, 5-6 ATS)

The streaking Chargers pursue their seventh consecutive win with a trip to Ohio to take on the Browns, who are tied with Tampa Bay for the league’s worst record.

San Diego punished Kansas City 43-14 Sunday, easily cashing as an overwhelming 13½-point favorite to move to 6-0 SU and 5-1 ATS in its last six outings. The Chargers have scored 31 points or more each of the last three weeks, outscoring the three foes by a total of 106-40, and they now average 28.4 ppg (third) while allowing 19.9 (14th).

Cleveland lost to Cincinnati 16-7 for its sixth consecutive defeat, halting a modest two-game ATS run in the process. The Browns have been held to seven points or less in seven of their 11 games this year, and for the season, their dismal 11.1 ppg average leads only the Raiders (10.5 ppg). Meanwhile, the defense is giving up 25.4 ppg (27th).

San Diego has won four of five against Cleveland (3-2 ATS), including the last three (2-1 ATS). Most recently, the Chargers won 32-25 as a 13-point chalk in November 2006, ending a 4-0 ATS surge by the SU winner in this rivalry.

The Chargers are 2-6 ATS in their last eight as a chalk of more than 10 and are on an 0-6 ATS dive as a non-division road favorite, but they are otherwise on ATS rolls of 4-0 overall, 8-1 in December and 4-1 laying points. The Browns are on a 1-16 SU freefall (5-11-1 ATS), and they are in additional ATS ruts of 0-4 in December, 1-7-1 at home, 4-10-1 after a SU loss and 2-5 in non-division home games.

The over for San Diego is on stretches of 5-2-1 on the highway, 7-3-2 as a chalk, 4-0-1 in December, 9-4 after a SU win and 5-2 after a spread-cover. Conversely, the under for Cleveland is on tears of 4-1 overall (all as a ‘dog), 9-1-1 in December, 7-2 against AFC opponents, 5-2 at home and 34-16-3 after a SU loss.

ATS ADVANTAGE: SAN DIEGO

San Francisco (5-6, 7-2-2 ATS) at Seattle (4-7 SU and ATS)

The Seahawks, coming off three straight road games, return to Qwest Field for an NFC West contest against the 49ers.

Seattle dropped the first two games of its road trip, then beat St. Louis 27-17 Sunday as a 3½-point favorite, winning and covering for just the second time in its last seven games. The Seahawks haven’t been impressive offensively or defensively this season, averaging 319.5 ypg (21st) and 20.3 ppg (20th), while allowing 348.8 ypg (20th) and 22.7 ppg (also 20th).

San Francisco rolled past Jacksonville 20-3 Sunday as a three-point home chalk, stemming a 1-5 SU skid (2-1-2 ATS). The 49ers rate in the top half of the league in scoring defense, yielding 19.4 ppg (11th), despite ranking 22nd in total yards allowed (351.4 ypg), and they are narrowly outscoring opponents on the year, at 20.7 ppg (19th).

These two teams have alternated SU and ATS wins over their last four meetings, with San Fran notching a 23-10 victory on Sept. 20 as a one-point home favorite. Also, the SU winner has cashed in each of the last eight clashes in this rivalry.

The Seahawks are on ATS slides of 3-7 overall, 2-10 after a SU win, 1-4 after a spread-cover and 2-6 in the NFC, but they’ve gone 5-2-1 ATS in their last eight at Qwest, 8-3 ATS in their last 11 December games and 4-0 ATS in their last four against losing teams. Seattle is also on an 8-2 ATS run as a division favorite. The 49ers are on ATS upturns of 7-2-3 overall, 6-0-1 as a road pup, 5-1-2 in conference play and 5-1 inside the division, but they are 2-5 ATS in their last seven against losing teams.

The under is on runs of 7-3-1 at home for Seattle, 5-2 with the Seahawks coming off a SU win, 4-0 for San Francisco in division action and 4-1 for the Niners in December. Also, in this rivalry, the total has stayed low in five of the last seven meetings. However, the over is 4-1 in Seattle’s last five overall and 26-10-2 in the Seahawks’ last 38 against losing teams.

ATS ADVANTAGE: UNDER

Dallas (8-3, 6-5 ATS) at N.Y. Giants (6-5, 4-7)

The Giants, desperate for a win if they hope to stay in the postseason picture, take on the NFC East-leading Cowboys at the Meadowlands.

New York got drilled on Thanksgiving night in Denver 26-6 giving 4½ points for its fifth loss in the last six games, going 0-6 ATS in that stretch after a 5-0 SU (4-1 ATS) start to the season. New York is still averaging 24.7 ppg (tied for eighth), but has scored 20 points or less in four of its last five outings. And the Giants have given up at least 21 points in each of the last six games, with three teams breaking 30 points.

Dallas dumped Oakland 24-7 as a heavy 13½-point home favorite, also on Thanksgiving, to post its sixth victory in the last seven games (4-3 ATS). The victory also snapped a two-game ATS skid in which the Pokes totaled just 14 points. Dallas fields the fourth-best total offense at 392.1 ypg, including 138 on the ground (sixth), though it sits a middling 14th in scoring (23.2 ppg). However, Dallas is allowing just 16.5 ppg, second-best in the NFL.

New York is on a 3-1 SU and ATS run in this heated rivalry, including a 33-31 victory catching three points in Dallas in Week 2 this season. The Giants are 7-3-2 ATS in the last dozen meetings overall (3-1-1 ATS in New York), and the SU winner is on an 8-0-2 ATS tear.

The Giants’ current skid has led to a bundle of negative ATS streaks, including 0-6 against winning teams, 0-5-1 after either a SU or an ATS loss, 0-4 against the NFC and 1-5 at home, though they remain on a 15-5-1 ATS tear as an underdog. The Cowboys are 9-4 ATS in their last 13 conference starts and 4-1 ATS in their last five after a SU win, but they shoulder ATS slides of 3-10 in the NFC East, 3-8 in roadies and 2-5 as a road chalk.

The under is on a 5-1-1 run with New York a home pup of three or less, and for Dallas, the under is on streaks of 4-0 overall, 6-1 laying three or less and 4-0 as a road chalk of that same price. However, the over is 5-2 in the Giants’ last seven NFC games and 15-7-2 in the Cowboys’ last 23 as a road chalk, and in this rivalry, the over is 5-2-1 in the last eight meetings overall and 6-1-1 in the last eight clashes at the Meadowlands.

ATS ADVANTAGE: OVER

Minnesota (10-1, 7-3-1 ATS) at Arizona (7-4, 6-5 ATS)

The Brett Favre-led Vikings continue hurtling toward the playoffs when they travel to the desert to face the defending NFC champion Cardinals at University of Phoenix Stadium.

Minnesota ripped Chicago 36-10 last week as a 10-point home chalk, posting its fourth consecutive double-digit win (3-0-1 ATS). The 40-year-old Favre has been phenomenal this season with 24 TD passes (second) against just three INTs, and the Vikes are ringing up 31.1 ppg (second) and 390 ypg (fifth). Minnesota has scored at least 27 points in all but one game this year, including seven games in the 30s.

Defensively, the Vikings are eighth in both points allowed (18.5 ppg) and total yards allowed (303.5 ypg), and they lead the league with 40 sacks.

Arizona went without QB Kurt Warner (concussion) Sunday at Tennessee and lost 20-17 on a last-second TD pass as a one-point ‘dog, ending a three-game SU run (2-1 ATS). The Cardinals’ passing game stands fifth at 265.2 ypg, helping them score 24.3 ppg (10th), but whether Warner will be around to lead them this week could be a game-time decision. Arizona is giving up 366.9 total ypg (24th) but just 19.7 ppg (13th).

Minnesota has won the last three meetings in this rivalry (2-1 ATS), including a 35-14 road rout last December getting four points. The Vikes are 6-2 ATS in the last eight clashes, and the SU winner is on a 6-1 ATS run.

The Vikings are 1-6 ATS in their last seven December games and 2-6 ATS in their last eight versus winning teams, but they sport positive ATS streaks of 3-0-1 overall, 5-0-1 in conference play, 5-1 on the highway and 4-1-1 giving points. Likewise, the Cardinals are on a batch of ATS rolls, including 11-5 overall, 7-1 getting points, 5-1 as a home pup, 6-1 against winning teams and 8-3 in the NFC.

The under for Minnesota is on surges of 4-1 overall, 4-0 after a SU win, 28-12-1 after an ATS win and 6-2-1 with the Vikes favored, though the over is 9-4-1 in Minny’s last 14 roadies. Arizona is on “over” surges of 19-7 at home, 19-7 against winning teams, 41-16 as an underdog and 4-0 as a home pup.

ATS ADVANTAGE: ARIZONA and OVER

Tips and Trends

Tennessee Titans at Indianapolis Colts

Titans: What a difference a bye week makes! The Titans are a perfect 5-0 both SU and ATS since their bye week in Week 7. After starting the year 0-6 SU, the Titans can get back to .500 with a win today. QB Vince Young has been remarkable since taking over the starting QB position. The Titans are averaging 29 PPG with Young at QB, 15 PPG higher than with Kerry Collins. RB Chris Johnson has an NFL high 1,394 yards rushing this season. Johnson has rushed for more than 125 YDS in 6 consecutive games, tying the NFL record. Johnson is a gamebreaker, as he has 3 TDs of at least 85 YDS this season. In this 5 game winning streak, only 1 team has scored more than 17 PTS against the Titans. The Titans were 3 point underdogs when they played the Colts in Week 5, a 31-9 beating.

Titans are 10-1 ATS last 11 games as an underdog of 3.5 to 10 points.
Under is 6-0 in Titans last 6 games after having more than 250 yards passing in their previous game.

Key Injuries - DT Jason Jones (shoulder) is questionable.
WR Justin Gage (back) is questionable.

PROJECTED SCORE: 23 (Side of the Day)

Colts (-6.5, O/U 46): The run for perfection continues, as the Colts are now 11-0. Indianapolis is only 1-3-1 ATS at home this season. Their lone ATS cover at home was against Seattle in Week 4. With a win today, the Colts will tie the NFL record with 21 consecutive regular season wins. QB Peyton Manning is having another MVP caliber season. Manning has thrown an NFL high 3,400 YDS with a 70% completion rate. He's also thrown for 24 TDs against 11 INTs. Manning is averaging 310 passing YPG, impressive considering the Colts have won 13 consecutive games when he throws for more than 300 YDS. This Colts defense is only allowing 16.7 PPG, 3rd best in the NFL. With injuries however, this defense has allowed 25 PPG over their past 3 contests.

Colts are 5-0 ATS vs. a team with a losing record.
Over is 5-1 last 6 vs. a team with a losing record.

Key Injuries - K Adam Vinatieri (knee) is questionable.
DB Kelvin Hayden (leg) is questionable.

PROJECTED SCORE: 24

Minnesota Vikings at Arizona Cardinals

Vikings (-3, O/U 48.5): The Vikings are 10-1 SU this season, and are widely considered one of the 3 best teams in the NFL. The Vikings are 4-1 ATS on the road this season. Minnesota is 3-0 ATS when they've been a road favorite this year. QB Brett Favre is having arguably the best season of his Hall of Fame career. Favre has thrown over 2,850 YDS with 24 TDs and only 3 INTs. Over the past 4 games, Favre has 12 TDs without an interception. WR Sidney Rice has enjoyed catching Favre, as he has 56 REC for nearly 1,000 receiving YDS. Rice and rookie WR Percy Harvin have combined for 9 TDs on the season. Let's not forget RB Adrian Peterson, with over 1,300 total YDS and 12 TDs. The Vikings defense has held their past 3 opponents to 10 PTS or less. Minnesota also has the 2nd ranked rushing defense in the NFL, holding opponents to only 81 rushing YPG.

Vikings are 5-1 ATS last 6 road games.
Under is 15-3 last 18 games following a SU win of more than 14 points.

Key Injuries - CB Antoine Winfield (toe) is questionable.
G Anthony Herrera (concussion) is doubtful.

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

Cardinals: Arizona is 1st in the NFC West at 7-4 SU. The Cardinals are 6-5 ATS, including 2-3 ATS at home. The Cardinals have been on the road their past 2 games. The last time Arizona played consecutive road games, they lost at home to the Panthers. The Cardinals are 4-1 ATS as an underdog this season, and today marks the 1st time they've been a home underdog. QB Kurt Warner leads an offense that averages 24 PPG for the season. Warner (2,700 passing YDS with 20 TDs and 11 INTs) missed last weeks contest, so he will be watched closely. WR Larry Fitzgerald has 9 TD catches, which is tied for the most in the league. Fitzgerald also has 75 receptions, 3rd most in the NFL. The Cardinals rush defense has faced the top 2 running backs over the past 2 weeks in Steven Jackson and Chris Johnson. Today they face the 3rd ranked running back in Adrian Peterson.

Cardinals are 7-1 ATS last 8 games as an underdog.
Over is 4-0 last 4 games as a home underdog.

Key Injuries - QB Kurt Warner (head) is probable.
RB Tim Hightower (thumb) is questionable.

PROJECTED SCORE: 27