NFL/NCAA News and Notes Thursday 11/12

CHICAGO (4 - 4) at SAN FRANCISCO (3 - 5)

Top Trends for this game.
CHICAGO is 25-11 ATS (+12.9 Units) in road games in November games since 1992.

Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.

CHICAGO vs. SAN FRANCISCO
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Chicago's last 6 games
Chicago is 1-5 ATS in its last 6 games on the road
San Francisco is 5-0 ATS in its last 5 games when playing at home against Chicago
San Francisco is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Chicago

CHICAGO at SAN FRANCISCO
CHICAGO: 2-8 ATS as road dog of 7pts or less
SAN FRANCISCO: 3-0 ATS at home vs. Chicago

Ball State Cardinals vs. Northern Illinois Huskies

The Ball State Cardinals and the Northern Illinois Huskies will both be trying to pick up a win on Thursday when they battle at Huskie Stadium.

Oddsmakers currently have the Huskies listed as 17-point favorites versus the Cardinals, while the game's total is sitting at 46½.

Tanner Justice threw for 78 yards, one touchdown and one interception for Ball State in a 20-17 loss to Ohio in Week 9.

The Cardinals covered the 5.5-point spread, while the final score played UNDER the day's posted total of 44.

Northern Illinois dominated from start to finish as they trounced Eastern Michigan 50-6 in Week 10. Northern Illinois covered the 22.5-point spread, and the 56 points made it OVER the posted total of 48.

Current streak:
Northern Illinois has won 3 straight games.

Team records:
Ball State: 1-8 SU, 4-4 ATS
Northern Illinois: 6-3 SU, 5-3 ATS

Ball State most recently:
When playing in November are 8-2
When playing on turf are 2-8
After being outgained are 3-7
When playing within the conference are 5-5

Northern Illinois most recently:
When playing in November are 5-5
When playing on turf are 5-5
After outgaining opponent are 5-5
When playing within the conference are 7-3

A few trends to consider:
The total has gone UNDER in 7 of Ball State's last 9 games on the road
Ball State is 8-3 ATS in its last 11 games on the road
Ball State is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games when playing on the road against Northern Illinois
Ball State is 3-7 SU in its last 10 games when playing Northern Illinois
Northern Illinois is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games at home
Northern Illinois is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games
Northern Illinois is 7-3 SU in its last 10 games when playing Ball State
Northern Illinois is 4-2 ATS in its last 6 games when playing at home against Ball State

Next up:
Ball State home to Central Michigan, Wednesday, November 18
Northern Illinois at Ohio, Saturday, November 21

Bowling Green Falcons vs. Miami (Ohio) RedHawks

The Bowling Green Falcons and the Miami (Ohio) RedHawks will both be gunning for a victory on Thursday when they meet at Fred C Yager Stadium.

Oddsmakers currently have the Falcons listed as 3-point favorites versus the RedHawks, while the game's total is sitting at 58.

Tyler Sheehan's 18-yard touchdown pass to Freddie Barnes with 0:39 on the clock lifted Bowling Green past Buffalo 30-29 in Week 10.

Bowling Green cashed as 3-point road underdogs, while the the game played OVER the 57.5-point total set by oddsmakers.

Miami (Ohio) fell 34-32 to Temple in Week 10 as 17.5-point underdogs. The 67 points sailed OVER the posted total of 45.

Zack Dysert threw for 415 yards and three touchdowns in that losing effort for the RedHawks.

Team records:
Bowling Green: 4-5 SU, 4-5 ATS
Miami (Ohio): 1-9 SU, 5-5 ATS

Bowling Green most recently:
When playing in November are 8-2
When playing on turf are 5-5
After being outgained are 5-5
When playing within the conference are 6-4

Miami (Ohio) most recently:
When playing in November are 3-7
When playing on turf are 1-9
After outgaining opponent are 2-8
When playing within the conference are 1-9

A few trends to consider:
Bowling Green is 10-2 ATS in its last 12 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Bowling Green's last 8 games on the road
Bowling Green is 5-2 SU in its last 7 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Bowling Green's last 6 games
Miami (Ohio) is 9-1 SU in its last 10 games when playing Bowling Green
Miami (Ohio) is 8-1 ATS in its last 9 games when playing Bowling Green
Miami (Ohio) is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games
Miami (Ohio) is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Bowling Green

Next up:
Bowling Green home to Akron, Friday, November 20
Miami (Ohio) home to Buffalo, Wednesday, November 18

South Florida Bulls vs. Rutgers Scarlet Knights

The South Florida Bulls and the Rutgers Scarlet Knights will both be gunning for a victory on Thursday when they meet at Rutgers Stadium.

Oddsmakers currently have the Scarlet Knights listed as 2½-point favorites versus the Bulls, while the game's total is sitting at 44½.

B.J. Daniels threw three touchdown passes to lead South Florida to a 30-19 victory over West Virginia in Week 9. South Florida won the game as a 3-point underdog, while the 49 points made it OVER the posted total of 47.5.

Daniels completed 13-of-26 pass attempts for 234 yards for South Florida, while Carlton Mitchell ran for 132 yards and a TD in that win.

Tim Brown scored on an 81-yard touchdown pass with 22 seconds left to give Rutgers an improbable 28-24 win over Connecticut in Week 9.

The Knights pulled off the upset and covered the 7.5-point spread, while the final score played OVER the day's posted total of 44.

Current streak:
Rutgers has won 2 straight games.

Team records:
South Florida: 6-2 SU, 3-3 ATS
Rutgers: 6-2 SU, 3-3 ATS

South Florida most recently:
When playing in November are 7-3
When playing on turf are 5-5
After outgaining opponent are 7-3
When playing within the conference are 4-6

Rutgers most recently:
When playing in November are 7-3
When playing on turf are 8-2
After being outgained are 8-2
When playing within the conference are 6-4

A few trends to consider:
The total has gone OVER in 4 of South Florida's last 5 games
South Florida is 7-2 SU in its last 9 games
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of South Florida's last 7 games on the road
South Florida is 8-4 SU in its last 12 games on the road
Rutgers is 13-2 SU in its last 15 games
Rutgers is 9-2 SU in its last 11 games at home

Next up:
South Florida home to Louisville, Saturday, November 21
Rutgers at Syracuse, Saturday, November 21

BOWLING GREEN (4 - 5) at MIAMI OHIO (1 - 9)

Top Trends for this game.
BOWLING GREEN is 10-2 ATS (+7.8 Units) in road games over the last 2 seasons.
BOWLING GREEN is 10-2 ATS (+7.8 Units) in road lined games over the last 2 seasons.
BOWLING GREEN is 8-1 ATS (+6.9 Units) in November games over the last 3 seasons.
BOWLING GREEN is 18-7 ATS (+10.3 Units) in road games when playing against a team with a losing record since 1992.

Head-to-Head Series History
MIAMI OHIO is 2-0 against the spread versus BOWLING GREEN over the last 3 seasons
MIAMI OHIO is 2-0 straight up against BOWLING GREEN over the last 3 seasons
1 of 2 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

BALL ST (1 - 8) at N ILLINOIS (6 - 3)

Top Trends for this game.
BALL ST is 13-4 ATS (+8.6 Units) in road games over the last 3 seasons.
BALL ST is 13-4 ATS (+8.6 Units) in road lined games over the last 3 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
N ILLINOIS is 1-1 against the spread versus BALL ST over the last 3 seasons
BALL ST is 2-0 straight up against N ILLINOIS over the last 3 seasons
1 of 2 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

S FLORIDA (6 - 2) at RUTGERS (6 - 2)

There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

Head-to-Head Series History
RUTGERS is 2-0 against the spread versus S FLORIDA over the last 3 seasons
RUTGERS is 2-0 straight up against S FLORIDA over the last 3 seasons
2 of 2 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

BALL STATE vs. NORTHERN ILLINOIS
Ball State is 1-10 SU in its last 11 games
Ball State is 3-7 SU in its last 10 games when playing Northern Illinois
Northern Illinois is 4-2 ATS in its last 6 games when playing at home against Ball State
Northern Illinois is 7-3 SU in its last 10 games when playing Ball State

BOWLING GREEN vs. MIAMI (OHIO)
Bowling Green is 2-5 ATS in its last 7 games
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Bowling Green's last 6 games
Miami (Ohio) is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Bowling Green
Miami (Ohio) is 8-1 ATS in its last 9 games when playing Bowling Green

SOUTH FLORIDA vs. RUTGERS
South Florida is 7-2 SU in its last 9 games
The total has gone OVER in 4 of South Florida's last 5 games
Rutgers is 9-2 SU in its last 11 games at home
Rutgers is 13-2 SU in its last 15 games

BOWLING GREEN at MIAMI OHIO
BOWLING GREEN: 10-2 ATS in road games
MIAMI OHIO: 0-7 ATS if 60+ total points were scored last game

BALL ST at N ILLINOIS
BALL ST: 8-1 ATS as road underdog
N ILLINOIS: 10-3 Under in home games

S FLORIDA at RUTGERS
S FLORIDA: 7-2 Under off SU dog win
RUTGERS: 1-11 ATS at home after a game with 0 turnovers

NFL

Chicago (4-4 SU and ATS) at San Francisco (3-5, 5-2-1 ATS)
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Coach Mike Singletary will lead his 49ers against the team with which he built his Hall of Fame career when the Bears come to town for an NFC contest at Candlestick Park.

After cashing in its first four games of the season (3-1 SU), San Francisco has lost four in a row SU and gone 1-2-1 ATS in that span. The 49ers have been outscored by an average of 12.3 ppg during the skid (30.3-18), though they did put up some points Sunday before losing 34-27 to the Titans as a 4½-point home favorite. QB Alex Smith, who helped engineer a comeback that fell just short at Houston three weeks ago and who kept San Francisco competitive at Indianapolis two weeks ago, had three INTs and two fumbles (one lost) against Tennessee.

Coming off a 30-6 home rout of Cleveland, Chicago got belted 41-21 by Arizona as a two-point home favorite Sunday, falling to 1-3 SU and ATS in its last four outings. The Bears’ acquisition of Jay Cutler (14 TDs, 12 INTs) hasn’t quite panned out, as he has six TD tosses in his last four games offset by seven INTs and a lost fumble. Cutler hasn’t been helped by a running attack averaging just 90.5 yards per game, 28th in the league.

Chicago is 1-3 SU and ATS on the road, while San Francisco has followed up two straight blowout home wins and covers over division-rivals Seattle (23-10) and St. Louis (35-0) with back to back SU and ATS defeats at Candlestick, as the Niners preceded Sunday’s setback to Tennessee with a 45-10 home loss to Atlanta in Week 5.
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These teams have split the cash in six meetings this decade, with Chicago going 4-2 SU. The favorite and the home team have gone 6-0 SU and 5-1 ATS in those contests. In the most recent battle in 2006, Chicago rolled 41-10 as a 16-point home chalk. The SU winner is 5-1 ATS in the last six meetings between these teams, 8-0 ATS in Chicago’s games this year and 5-2-1 ATS in San Francisco’s eight contests in 2009.

The 49ers are 10-22-1 ATS in their last 33 games as a favorite (2-2 this year), but they are otherwise on pointspread upswings of 10-4-2 since Singletary took over as coach last year (8-3-2 last 13), 4-1-1 against the NFC, 6-2-1 after a SU loss and 5-2 in November.

The Bears are on positive spread-covering runs of 4-1 after a SU loss and 11-5 after a non-cover, but they carry negative ATS streaks of 1-5 on the road, 0-5-1 as a road pup, 1-3-1 on Thursday, 2-5-1 in conference play and 2-5 in November.
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The over for San Francisco is on streaks of 7-3 at Candlestick, 12-4 as a home chalk and 7-1 with the 49ers laying three points or less, and the over is 31-14-1 in Chicago’s last 46 games against NFC foes. The under for the Bears, though, is on rolls of 9-4 on the highway, 36-17-2 as a road pup and 5-1 after a SU loss. Finally, in this rivalry, the total has cleared the posted price in four of the last five regular-season meetings and is 7-2 in the last nine clashes (including four preseason games).

ATS ADVANTAGE: SAN FRANCISCO

COLLEGE FOOTBALL

Bowling Green (4-5 SU and ATS) at Miami (Ohio) (1-9, 5-5 ATS)

The Falcons will try to continue their recent surge when they make the trek to Fred Yager Stadium for a Mid-American Conference East Division battle with Miami (Ohio).
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Bowling Green rallied from a 29-16 fourth-quarter deficit at Buffalo nine days ago and pulled out a shocking 30-29 victory as a three-point road underdog. Tyler Sheehan hit star WR Freddie Barnes with an 18-yard scoring pass with 39 seconds to play to steal the win, and Barnes finished with eight catches for 122 yards. Although Bowling Green got outgained 411-361, including 262-48 on the ground, it did score three rushing touchdowns.

The Redhawks rallied from a 31-13 third-quarter deficit to take a 32-21 lead at Temple a week ago tonight, but they failed on a two-point conversion attempt after their final touchdown with 2:36 to play. The Owls then marched down the field and kicked the game-winning field goal with three seconds left, prevailing 34-32. However, Miami did cover easily as a 17-point underdog, improving to 5-1 ATS in its last six (3-0 ATS in the last three), all as an underdog.
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Bowling Green has now scored at least 30 points in four of its last five games, but the defense has surrendered an average of 39.6 ppg in the last five after yielding just 19.3 ppg in the first three contests. Sheehan has passed for 2,990 yards (64.1 percent completion rate) for 16 TDs and six INTs, while Barnes leads the nation with 107 catches and 1,176 receiving yards, and he’s second nationally with 10 receiving TDs.

Miami, which began the season with seven straight losses before upsetting Toledo 31-24 as a five-point underdog on Halloween, scored a total of 71 points in its first seven games (10.1 ppg) but has tallied 85 in the last three (28.3 ppg). During this three-game surge, the offense has produced an average of 417 total ypg, nearly all of it through the air (372.7 passing ypg).

The Redhawks are on a 3-0 SU and ATS run in this rivalry, with all three being outright upset wins, including last year’s 27-20 victory at Bowling Green as a 9½-point road underdog – Miami’s only win over a Division I-A program in 2008. The Redhawks are 9-1 SU and 8-2 ATS in the last 10 series clashes, and the underdog has scored the upset each of the last four years.
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The Falcons are in ATS funks of 2-5 overall, 9-20 as a favorite and 2-7 when laying between 3½ and 10 points, but they’re also on positive pointspread runs of 13-2 on the road (2-2 this year), 6-2 as a road chalk, 4-1 against losing teams and 7-1 in November. Despite its current 5-1 ATS run from the underdog role, Miami is just 2-6 ATS in its last eight November contests and 8-20-1 ATS in its last 29 against teams with a losing record.

For Bowling Green, the under is on stretches of 6-2 on the road, 4-1 as a road chalk and 6-1 after SU victory. Miami has topped the total in five straight against losing teams, six of eight MAC games and four of five in November. Finally, the total has alternated the last four years in this rivalry, with the last two in Miami going over the posted price.
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ATS ADVANTAGE: NONE

Ball State (1-8, 4-4 ATS) at Northern Illinois (6-3, 5-3 ATS)

Northern Illinois, which is riding a three-game winning streak, looks to remain in the hunt for the MAC’s West Division title when it welcomes one-win Ball State to Huskie Stadium.

The Cardinals followed up their first victory of the season – a 29-27 triumph over winless Eastern Michigan as a 2½-point underdog – with a 20-17 home loss to Ohio on Halloween, but they covered as a 5½-point underdog. Ball State started last season with 12 consecutive wins, then dropped the MAC championship game to Buffalo, got clobbered in the International Bowl by Tulsa and has lost eight of its first nine games this year. During the 1-10 SU slump, the Cardinals are 4-6 ATS in lined action.
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Northern Illinois destroyed Eastern Michigan 50-6 last Thursday, easily covering as a 21½-point home favorite. During their three-game winning streak (2-1 ATS), the Huskies have averaged 34.7 points and 378.7 yards per game (298.3 rushing ypg) while allowing just 12.7 points and 251.3 total yards per game (40 rushing ypg). Since a season-opening 28-20 loss at Wisconsin as a 16½-point underdog, the Huskies are 6-2 SU and 4-3 ATS in lined games, and they’ve been favored in each of their last six outings.

Northern Illinois has scored 27 points or more in seven of its last eight games while allowing 21 points or less in six of those contests. Conversely, Ball State has managed 17 points or less in seven of its last 10 going back to last year’s bowl loss while giving up an average of 30.5 ppg during this stretch.
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The Cardinals blasted Northern Illinois 45-14 as an eight-point home favorite last season, finishing with a 529-275 edge in total offense (310-115 passing). Prior to last year, the visitor had won four in a row in this rivalry, including Ball State’s 27-21 victory in 2007, though it failed to cash as a 9½-point road favorite in that one.

Despite its dismal SU record, Ball State carries several positive ATS trends, including 20-7 on the road, 11-4 in November, 18-5 versus winning teams, 11-5 as an underdog, 4-1 as a road underdog and 10-2 as an underdog of more than 10 points. Also, the ‘dog is 8-3 ATS in Ball State’s last 11 games. Northern Illinois is on pointspread upticks of 3-1 at home (all as a favorite, 10-4-1 in November, 4-1 on Thursday and 8-3 against teams with a losing record. However, the Huskies have failed to cover in nine of their last 11 as a favorite of more than 10 points.
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Ball State is on “under” streaks of 6-3 overall, 7-2 on the road, 7-2 in November, 13-6 as a double-digit underdog and 4-1 on artificial turf. For the Huskies, the under is on runs of 33-15-2 overall, 12-3-1 at home, 17-7-1 in MAC play and 18-6-2 after a SU victory. Conversely, five of the last seven meetings in this rivalry have gone over the total.

ATS ADVANTAGE: UNDER

(23) South Florida (6-2, 3-3 ATS) at Rutgers (6-2, 3-3 ATS)
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Two teams coming off impressive upset victories get together at Rutgers Stadium, where the surging Scarlet Knights host South Florida in a nationally televised Big East battle.

South Florida ripped off five straight wins to begin the season, then got clipped by Top 25 foes Cincinnati (34-17 at home) and Pitt (41-14 on the road). However, the third time against a ranked opponent proved to be the charm for the Bulls, who knocked off then-No. 20 West Virginia 30-19 as a 2½-point home underdog in their most recent game Oct. 30. USF outgained the Mountaineers 421-323 overall, including a 189-118 rushing advantage.
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After two dismal performances in the losses to Cincinnati and Pitt, freshman QB B.J. Daniels came up huge against West Virginia, passing for 232 yards and three TDs while also running for 104 yards on 14 carries. South Florida has scored 30 points or more in six of its last nine games and has averaged 36.6 ppg in its last seven wins but 15.5 ppg in its losses to Pitt and Cincinnati. Defensively, the Bulls have held nine of their last 11 opponents to 20 points or less and has surrendered a total of 66 points (11 ppg) in its six wins this year but gave up 75 points (37.5 ppg) in the two losses to Pitt and Cincinnati.

Rutgers has won two in a row and four of its last six, and like South Florida, both of the Scarlet Knights’ losses came against Cincinnati (47-15 at home in the season opener on Sept. 7) and Pitt (24-17 at home on Oct. 16). The Scarlet Knights have been idle since Oct. 31, when they shocked UConn 28-24 as a 7½-point road underdog. In that contest, Rutgers returned the opening kickoff for a touchdown but gave up a 21-10 four-quarter lead, falling behind 24-21 with 38 seconds to play. However, one play after the ensuing kickoff, freshman QB Tom Savage hit Tim Brown with a short pass, and Brown went the distance for an 81-yard game-winning score with 22 seconds to play.
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Savage has 1,341 passing yards with eight TDs and just one INT since taking over the starting quarterback job, and he leads an offense that’s averaged 33.3 ppg in its six wins but just 16 ppg in its two losses. The defense has given up 11.5 ppg in the six victories, but surrendered 71 to Pitt and Cincinnati. Since starting last year 1-5 SU, Rutgers have won 13 of its last 15 games

When South Florida entered the Big East in 2005, it routed Rutgers 45-31 as a 2½-point road underdog. Since then, though, the Scarlet Knights have reeled off three straight wins and two straight spread-covers in this rivalry, including last year’s 49-16 rout as an eight-point road pup, with the Bulls committing six turnovers. The underdog has covered in all four meetings (3-1 SU) between these schools.

South Florida is on ATS runs of 6-3 overall, 3-1 as a favorite, 5-2 after a bye and 4-1 in November, but the Bulls have failed to cover in four straight Thursday contests, 11 of 15 against winning teams and five of seven as a road chalk. Rutgers carries positive pointspread streaks of 10-4-1 overall, 5-2 in Big East play, 5-2 on Thursday, 6-1 as an underdog, 8-2-1 after a SU win, 6-0-1 after a non-cover and 6-3 after a bye, but the Knights are have failed to cover in all three of their home games this year.
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The Bulls have topped the total in four straight games overall (all in Big East play) and seven of 10 after a bye, but the under is 5-2 in their last seven road games. The over is also 6-1 in Rutgers’ last seven Big East games, 11-4 in its last 15 in November, 4-0 in its last four on Thursday and 12-1 in its last 13 after a bye, but the under is 4-1 in the Knights’ last five overall (2-0 at home).

Finally, all four meetings between these teams have gone over the total.

ATS ADVANTAGE: OVER

Bears at 49ers
By Brian Edwards

With both teams in dire need of a victory to stay in contention in the NFC playoff chase, San Francisco (3-5 straight up, 5-2-1 against the spread) will play host to Chicago on Thursday night. Las Vegas Sports Consultants opened the 49ers as four-point favorites with a total of 41 ½.

As of Wednesday afternoon, most betting shops had the Niners favored by 3 ½ with the total adjusted to 43 ½. The Bears are plus-160 on the money line (risk $100 to win $160).

Mike Singletary’s team has lost four in a row after starting the season by winning three of its first four games. The 49ers led the Titans 17-10 at intermission last week, but Tennessee rallied to collect a 34-27 win as a 4½-point road underdog.

San Francisco out-yarded the Titans (358-315) and had a huge advantage in first downs (25-14), but it couldn’t overcome three interceptions by Alex Smith, who was making his second start of the season. Smith completed 29-of-45 passes for 286 yards and a pair of touchdowns.

However, with the 49ers trailing 27-20 late in the fourth quarter, Smith was picked off by Cortland Finnegan, who returned the interception 39 yards for a TD to put the game on ice.

Frank Gore ran for 83 yards and one touchdown on 15 carries. Gore also had seven receptions for 75 yards. Vernon Davis made a team-high 10 catches for 102 yards, while Jason Hill had four receptions for 50 yards and two touchdowns.

Chicago (4-4 SU, 4-4 ATS) has lost three of its last four games both SU and ATS, including last week’s embarrassing 41-21 home loss to Arizona as a one-point ‘chalk.’ Kurt Warner torched the Bears’ secondary for 262 yards passing and five touchdowns. The Cardinals led 31-7 at halftime and 34-7 at the end of the third quarter.

Jay Cutler threw for 369 yards and three touchdowns, but he had no support from the ground game that had to be abandoned early. Matt Forte finished with just 33 yards rushing on five carries. Devin Hester had six receptions for 94 yards, while Earl Bennett had seven catches for 93 yards.

Cutler hasn’t lived up to the hype after he was acquired from Denver in the off-season for a slew of draft picks. The Vanderbilt product had been intercepted 12 times compared to 14 TD passes.

Forte seems to be mired in a sophomore slump of sorts. Without a doubt, at the halfway mark of the 2009 campaign, he’s nowhere near the pace he set in rushing for 1,231 yards as a rookie in ‘08. Forte has 441 rushing yards for a pedestrian average of 3.6 yards per carry.

Hester is enjoying a career year as full-time starting wide receiver. He has 41 catches for 548 yards and three touchdowns.

Lovie Smith’s team is winless both SU and ATS in a pair of road underdog spots this season. The Bears lost 21-14 at Atlanta and 21-15 at Green Bay. They are 1-3 both SU and ATS in four road games, beating Seattle 25-19 as one-point road favorites before getting smoked 45-10 at Cincinnati as one-point road ‘chalk.’

San Francisco is 2-2 both SU and ATS at home this season. The 49ers have been single-digit favorites in each home assignment, just as they are in this one.

Totals have been a complete wash for both clubs, going 4-4 to date. With that said, both squads have seen a recent surge of ‘overs.’ The ‘over’ is 4-2 in the Bears’ last six games, 3-1 in the 49ers’ last four contests.

The NFL Channel will have the telecast at 8:20 p.m. Eastern.

**B.E.’s Bonus Nuggets**

We’ll mention a 4-0 run for the ‘over’ in the last four head-to-head meetings between the 49ers and Bears. However, the relevance of this nugget is tempered by the fact that three of those “games” were in the preseason.

Hester had 11 touchdowns on punt and kick returns in 2006 and ’07. Since then, he has zero.

San Francisco first-round pick Michael Crabtree didn’t sign a contract until October. The 49ers are winless since he inked his deal. Crabtree has played in each of the last three games, hauling in 14 catches for 167 yards. The Texas Tech product is still looking for his first career TD grab.

Chicago is in a second-place tie with Green Bay in the NFC North going into Week 10. The Bears and Packers both trail division-leading Minnesota by three games. They are both one game behind the wild-card leaders, Atlanta and Philadelphia, and one-half game back of the 5-4 Giants.

San Francisco’s future number to win the Super Bowl at Sportsbook.com has been moved to 100/1. Meanwhile, Chicago is now sporting 40/1 odds at the offshore website. New Orleans is now the plus-350 ‘chalk’ (risk $100 to win $350), while other clubs with short odds include Minnesota (+400), New England (+450), Indianapolis (+450) and Pittsburgh (+500).

Thursday's Tip Sheet
By Christian Alexander

#23 South Florida (6-2, 2-2 Big East) at Rutgers (6-2, 1-2 Big East)

Rutgers Stadium (FieldTurf)
Sports.com Line: Rutgers -2.5, O/U 44.5

After some preseason hype predicting that Rutgers might have a chance to contend for the Big East title, most people wrote this team off after they were smoked at home to open the season, losing to Cincinnati 47-15. Yet, while the Scarlet Knights are mathematically out of the Big East title race, they still sit a very respectable 6-2 and with one more win will be eligible for a bowl game, their fifth postseason appearance in a row. That’s a pretty incredible statement for Rutgers football considering when that streak began it had been 27 years since the Scarlet Knights had made a bowl game.

The question this Thursday night is will that win come against South Florida or will coach Greg Schiano have to wait for that chance when they face Syracuse and Louisville this year?

The Bulls and Scarlet Knights have played some great games in recent years but Rutgers owns the bragging rights as of now with three straight wins after losing their first meeting 45-31 in 2005.

The story this season Rutgers has been their turnover margin. The Scarlet Knights have an incredibly low seven turnovers in their eight games and coupled with the fact that this team has forced 25 turnovers, they now have the team the best turnover margin in the country.

That efficiency can’t be understated and you can certainly bet it has won Rutgers a couple games, especially since they have been breaking in a true freshman quarterback on offense. Tom Savage hasn’t been spectacular since taking over the starting gig for Schiano but obviously he hasn’t made too many mistakes either and has done a good job of getting the ball to his playmakers.

At the top of that list is senior WR Tim Brown who is averaging a stellar 21.9 yards per catch, and has five touchdowns on the year. Add a steady ground game featuring Joe Martinek, Jourdan Brooks, and the heir apparent to Ray Rice - freshman De'Antwan Williams and you basically have a pretty good idea of the Scarlet Knights on offense.

On defense, Rutgers has been susceptible to the pass but has been solid against the run, averaging just 3.3 yards per carry through eight games.

That ability to stop the run will be tested against a South Florida offense with a quarterback that looks an awful bit like a very talented running back at times. QB B.J. Daniels took over starting role after All-Big East QB Matt Grothe tore up his knee in the third game of the season against Charleston Southern. Most fans of the Bulls thought that was the end of the season for USF but here they are with a chance for their first 10-win season in school history. In just 12 years of having a program, South Florida has had three years with at least nine wins, but has never reached double digits.

Daniels has proved to be every bit the multi-dimensional threat that Grothe was. Just ask West Virginia who he torched for three touchdown passes while going over 100 yards rushing. Daniels and RB Moise Plancher will given Schiano’s defense plenty to think about this Thursday. Look for the South Florida QB to also call WR Carlton Mitchell’s number early and often as well. The junior has 29 catches for 542 yards this season, including five receptions that covered at least 50 yards.

On defense, the Bulls are led by DE George Selvie who gets a ton of attention from the press as well as from opposing offensive coordinators. That attention has caused constant double teaming which has limited Selvie’s individual stats but allowed other playmakers on defense such as DE Jason Pierre-Paul to flourish. The junior college transfer has two sacks, five hurries and 9.5 tackles for loss and has returned an interception for a touchdown.

Both Rutgers and South Florida are an even 3-3 against the spread this season.

Ball State (1-8, 1-4 Mid American) at Northern Illinois (6-3, 4-1 Mid American)

Huskie Stadium (FieldTurf)
Sports.com Line: Northern Illinois -17, O/U 46.5

After getting their first win of the season on Oct. 24 against lowly Eastern Michigan, Ball State turned around and went right back to losing in heartbreaking fashion. The 20-17 loss to Ohio marked the sixth time in eight losses that the final margin of defeat was 10 points or less. The Cardinals only really has one woodshed beating and that was a 24 point thumping at Auburn – certainly understandable.

Woodshed number two could be on the way this Thursday when the Cards face Northern Illinois. The Huskies obliterated Eastern Michigan last week 50-6 and will undoubtedly be looking for another knockout this week. The key for the Huskies will be RB Chad Spann who for the second consecutive week was named the MAC West Division Offensive Player of the Week. Spann has rushed for at least 100 yards for three straight games and has 16 touchdowns on the season. If Ball State can’t slow him down, this one could get ugly quick.

Ball State is 4-4 against the spread while Northern Illinois is 5-3 ATS in 2009.

Bowling Green (4-5, 3-2 Mid American) at Miami (Ohio) (1-9, 1-5 Mid American)

Yager Stadium (FieldTurf)
Sports.com Line: Bowling Green -3.5, O/U 57.5

This is shaping up to be quite a matchup of quarterbacks. Despite a lost season at 1-9, Miami (OH) has to be thrilled with the progress of QB Zac Dysert. The freshman passed for 426 yards last week in rallying the RedHawks from an 18-point deficit in the fourth quarter against Temple. The Redhawks eventually lost on a last-second field goal but the team looks they have found the next Ben Roethlisberger.

Dysert has thrown for 1,118 yards in the past three games which explains why the Miami (OH) offense has scored 63 points in this last two games after averaging just 11.6 points over their first eight.

But let’s not forget about Bowling Green’s offense and QB Tyler Sheehan. The Falcons signal caller is averaging 332.2 yards per game while throwing 16 touchdowns. Lots of those scores were to WR Freddie Barnes who leads the nation with 107 catches for 1,176 yards and has 11 total touchdowns.

FREE PLAY

Lots of history between these intrastate rivals but lately it’s been all Miami (OH) as the RedHawks are 9-1 in the last 10 meetings, including three straight wins, against Bowling Green.

That said, clearly the Falcons have had a the better season and considering the fact that the team desperately needs this win to finish over .500 and become bowl eligible, I see Bowling Green getting the job done.

A high scoring affair ends with the visitor winning by a touchdown.

PREDICTION: Bowling Green 34 – Miami (OH) 27

Bowling Green is 4-5 against the spread this season while Miami (Ohio) is just one better at 5-5 ATS.

Bears head to Bay Area
By AllStar.com

Thursday Night Football returns this week on the NFL Network with the Bears visiting the 49ers in San Francisco. This will be Mike Singletary's first game as head coach against the team he played 12 seasons for, so a win tonight would be bitter sweet against his former team. The 49ers look to avoid losing a fifth straight game against the Bears, who are coming off another embarrassing performance on defense.

The Bears (4-4) who are coming off a 41-21 loss to Arizona and are only three weeks removed from a 45-10 loss at Cincinnati. Chicago allowed Kurt Warner to tie a career high by throwing five touchdowns and the Cardinals rushed for a season-best 182 yards. With three losses in four games, the Bears, who haven't been to the playoffs since 2006, are hardly playing like a team that opened the year with a 3-1 record following a 48-24 win over Detroit in Week 4.

The 49ers (3-5), which haven't made the playoffs since 2002, are mired in a four-game losing streak and two games out of first place in the NFC West after leading the division last month, they are desperate to save their season starting now. Singletary still believes he has a playoff team, and he's counting on Alex Smith to take charge of the offense in primetime Thursday and get things back on track. Aside from four turnovers, including three interceptions by Smith, Singletary saw a lot of positives from the offense in the 34-27 loss to Tennessee last week.

Alex Smith threw two interceptions in the final 6:24 and three total, fumbled twice and was sacked four times. Smith, who took over the starting job at halftime against Houston on Oct. 25 when Singletary benched Shaun Hill, looked like a poised NFL veteran at times Sunday and way off at others.

In the 2 1/2 games that he's been back behind center, Smith is 63 of 99 for 690 yards and with six touchdown passes and five interceptions. Singletary knows Smith won't get completely in sync with his receivers until he's played a little more and the coach is willing to be patient with the process.

The 49ers committed four turnovers leading to 24 points for the Titans and have turned the ball over 11 times during their four game slide. They had just two turnovers in their first four games.

49ers RB Frank Gore is coming to life, he has 28 carries for 174 yards over the last two games, with a touchdown in each, plus 12 catches for 118 yards. The 49ers' star running back has a 6.2-yard per carry average in two games this month. He ran for 111 yards on 12 carries at Soldier Field in 2006. San Francisco needs Gore leading the ground game, in order to take some of the pressure off Alex Smith so he will not force the ball into turnovers like he did against Tennessee.

Vernon Davis, the 6-foot-3, 250-pound Tight End, is tied for the league lead with seven touchdown receptions and leads the 49ers with 42 catches for 477 yards. The emergence of rookie receiver Michael Crabtree only makes Davis that much more dangerous because safeties might have to cheat over Crabtree's way.

San Francisco's Offensive line will have a different set of starters for the third consecutive game this week, and that has hurt continuity as the unit attempts to find its stride. The 49ers rank 29th in the NFL in sacks allowed per play, and Barry Sims often will line up against the best pass rusher the opposition has to offer since the injury to Joe Staley. He has plenty of experience in that role; spending most of his Oakland career at left tackle.

Defensively the 49ers' last four games, though, they've held running backs to 13 catches for 70 yards and they boast the NFL's fourth-best rushing defense, even after letting Tennessee’s Chris Johnson go for 135 yards and two touchdowns on Sunday.

After going plus-5 in turnovers during their 3-1 start, the 49ers have gone minus-8 during their four-game losing streak, and the San Francisco defense has not recorded a takeaway in the month of November.

With a 35-0 victory over St. Louis on Oct. 4, San Francisco (3-5) improved to 3-1 and sat alone atop the NFC West. Singletary's team was clicking on both offense and defense, but it hasn't won since.

Bears, who are coming off a 41-21 loss to Arizona and are only three weeks removed from a 45-10 loss at Cincinnati.

Chicago's Jay Cutler who has 14 touchdowns and 12 interceptions on the season, threw for 369 yards and three touchdowns all to tight end Greg Olsen but was intercepted once and sacked four times Sunday. Playing behind a shoddy offensive line while trying to find inexperienced wide receivers that struggle to get open, Cutler has already been sacked 19 times, eight more than all of last season with Denver. Cutler, meanwhile, sees teams using more blitzes and more gimmick defenses and it’s all added up to this: Cutler on the run. A fan base holding its breath, wondering if he will be able to stay healthy.

The Chicago running game, has been miserable, with Matt Forte' (441 rushing yards, 3 TD, 30 receptions) getting little going behind a shaky offensive line. Forte' had a career-low five carries last week totaling 33 yards, as Chicago played from behind for most of the day. The Bears are just 28th in NFL rushing offense (90.5 yards per game), and have allowed 19 sacks on the year to date.

The Bears have had only one 100-yard receiver all season: Devin Hester on October 25. Cutler's chemistry with a once-suspect receiving corps, wide outs Hester, Earl Bennett, Johnny Knox along with tight end Greg Olsen seems to be developing. Hester has recorded 80-plus receiving yards in each of his last four games, Bennett posted a season-high 93 receiving yards last week, and Olsen caught all three Cutler touchdown passes in last week's loss to the Cardinals.

At the moment, there’s plenty of room to improve even if the Bears’ offensive line is nowhere near the bottom of the NFL statistically. Twenty-one teams have allowed more sacks than Chicago (11) and the 30 quarterback hits ranks 15th. They reshuffled their rotation last week with Josh Beekman starting at left guard over Frank Omiyale, Orlando Pace, at LT and Chris Williams at RT the results weren’t promising.

The Bears allowed four sacks against a Browns team that ranked dead last defensively entering the game and, a few flashes aside, they didn’t get much from the running game either. How much Cutler and Forte are to blame for that is open to debate, but the line is certainly receiving its share of attention.

Defensively, the Bears are falling apart. They allowed 10 first downs on their first 14 defensive snaps. The pass rush isn't there and these linebackers are routinely out of position. Defensive tackle Tommy Harris got ejected on the first drive for throwing a punch and he can’t be replaced on this defensive front. Charles Tillman limped off the field after getting burned repeatedly in the secondary and safety Al Afalava hurt his shoulder, giving them cluster injury concerns in the secondary. Chicago's defense has eight interceptions, only the Titans, Lions and Buccaneers have allowed more passing touchdowns. Three of the four biggest passing games allowed by the Bears have come in their last four games. Regardless of Harris' status for this game, the suddenly vulnerable Chicago defense, which has given up 514 rushing yards in its last three games, will likely have some trouble trying to stop Frank Gore. Chicago's current defense looks nothing like the unit Singletary once anchored. The Bears were carved up for 438 yards in Sunday's 41-21 loss to Arizona, 10 yards fewer than they yielded in a 45-10 defeat at Cincinnati on Oct. 25.The Bears lost star linebacker Brian Urlacher to a season-ending wrist injury in their opener, Harris, who apologized Monday for his actions, could be suspended by the league.

An ugly win did nothing to ease concerns brought on by back-to-back losses, including a 45-10 thumping at Cincinnati the previous week. There were problems in the red zone, where Chicago converted just two of seven trips inside the 20 into touchdowns, and problems keeping the quarterback on his feet.

Two teams on a short week, mired in losing streaks, with turnover prone quarterbacks, injury riddled line ups, and make shift offensive lines. This game is going to come down to which team puts the most pressure on the opposing quarterback causing the most turnovers. The 49ers have a better offensive line and running game in week 10 than the Bears, so maybe they can buy Alex Smith the time he needs to hit Vernon Davis or Michael Crabtree for a couple touchdowns at home.

Betting Trends: The Bears are 1-6 ATS in their last 7 games as an underdog The Bears are 1-5 ATS in their last 6 road games The 49ers are 8-3-2 ATS in their last 13 games The OVER is 7-3 in the 49ers last 10 home games The OVER is 4-1 in the last 5 meetings between the two teams

INJURY REPORT:

Chicago Bears:

OUT: Pisa Tinoisamoa LB, Bryan Urlacher LB, Harry Melton DE, Kevin Jones RB Garrett Wolfe RB
Questionable: Al Afalava S-Shoulder, Kevin Payne S-Back
Probable: Charles Tillman CB-Shoulder

San Francisco 49ers:

OUT: Walt Harris CB, Jeff Ulbrich LB, Tony Pashos T, Nate Clemons CB-Shoulder, Joe Staley T-Leg, Demetric Evans DE-Shoulder
Doubtful: Glen Coffee RB-Neck
Questionable: Reggie Smith DB-Groin, Delanie Walker TE-Knee
Probable: Frank Gore RB-Eye

What Bettors Need to Know: Bears at 49ers
By SCOTT COOLEY

The NFL Network’s inaugural game of the 2009 season means two things. Casual fans will be searching for the channel they don’t have and tuned in fans must labor through the torment of Matt Millen calling the game.

The Chicago Bears (4-4) and San Francisco 49ers (3-5) square off in a conference matchup Thursday night that will not resemble the late 80s rivalry between these former NFC powerhouses.

Line movement

The spread opened at -2.5 in favor of the 49ers and has settled at -3 with most books tacking on -115 juice.

Chicago is 4-4 against the number this season while the 49ers hold a 5-2 ATS record.

The opening total was posted at 43 and mild action has elevated the number to 43.5.

Injury report

Bears defensive tackle Tommie Harris could still face a suspension for punching an Arizona offensive lineman last week.

San Francisco’s second-string rookie running back, Glen Coffee, will miss the game after suffering a concussion against the Titans.

Weather or not

The forecast predicts partly cloudy skies with a northwesterly wind of 9-12 mph. Temperature at kickoff is expected to be in the upper-50s.

Gold rush is gone

This is not the same 49ers team that appeared reborn after first four weeks of the season. Head coach Mike Singletary is the franchise’s savior, but must refocus his club after four consecutive losses.

The stoic Singletary downplayed any extra motivation in facing the team he played linebacker for during his 12-year NFL career.

“[No emotions] in particular,” Singletary said on the team’s official website. “I’m just excited for the game, but no emotions outside of the emotions that I have for any other team.”

Two key players will not suit up for San Francisco for the second straight week. The absence of offensive tackle Joe Staley and cornerback Nate Clements was felt in the 34-27 loss to the Titans last Sunday.

Vince Young averaged 9.1 yards per pass play and the Titans front seven sacked quarterback Alex Smith four times while pressuring him into three interceptions and two fumbles.

Bearing their weaknesses

The vaunted defense that single-handily led the Bears to the Super Bowl in 2006 is gone. After season-ending injuries to linebackers Brian Urlacher and Pisa Tinoisamoa, Chicago’s defense has been in a tailspin.

The Bears give up 119.5 ypg on the ground and have surrendered 514 rushing yards during their last three games.

The Bears are still licking their paws after Kurt Warner and the Arizona aerial assault torched them for five touchdowns last week. Chicago has yielded more than 40 points twice this season and rank tied for 28th in the league in passing touchdowns allowed with 16.

Terrorizing tight ends

Two of the best young tight ends in the league will be showcased in the Thursday night affair.

Greg Olsen is transforming into the go-to red zone target for Jay Cutler. He registered 71 yards on five receptions last week – three of which went for scores. Olsen’s six touchdowns on the season lead Chicago’s receiving corps.

San Francisco’s offensive coordinator Jimmy Raye has done a superb job getting the team’s most dynamic offensive player involved. Tight end Vernon Davis leads the team in receptions (42), yards (477) and touchdowns (7) this season.

“[Davis] continues to get better and he is going to help this team win a lot of football games,” Singletary stated on the team’s official website. “He is committed, that’s why he is a captain. He is the example that everybody on this team wants to look to as a guy who is doing it right.”

Trendy solutions

The last four games in this series have gone over the posted total.

As underdogs, Chicago has won straight up in two of the series’ last four games. The 49ers are 6-0 ATS in their last six home games against the Bears.

What Bettors Need to Know: South Florida at Rutgers
By MATT FARGO

Line movement

This game opened anywhere from even to -1.5 in favor of South Florida and it hasn’t done much anywhere. We may see the line creep up a little bit based on the heavy public action on the Bulls.

The total opened at 46 and can be found now at 45 with some shops.

Weather

There is a 20 percent chance of rain Thursday night with the temperature going down to 45 degrees and winds coming in from the northeast at10 m.p.h.

Scarlet Fever

While the Scarlet Fever is not running rampant through the Rutgers team, the flu has taken its toll and put a good number of players down for extended periods of time.

“We have a real bug going through the game, which may keep a few guys from practicing,” Scarlet Knights head coach Greg Schiano said. He did mention that flu shots were available but did not say how many players got them and he didn’t mention how many players were hit by the virus.

The good news is that Rutgers had an off week and that’s when the bug hit its apex on the players so there has been plenty of time for rest and recuperation. And while it is looking like only a few players will show the effects this week, the missing of practice time is just as detrimental.

Turnovers, turnovers, turnovers

Rutgers has a knack for getting the ball from opponents. The team has 25 takeaways, tied for fifth in the country and good for tops in the Big East. The Knights lead the nation in turnover margin at +2.25 also thanks to an offense that has given is up only seven times.

In their six wins this season, the Scarlet Knights own a sparkling 22-2 turnover differential. In their two setbacks, they have committed five turnovers and only taken three.

South Florida coach Jim Leavitt said he will have an eye on the turnover margin Thursday night.

“It's as important statistic as there is,” Leavitt said. “You turn the ball over, you're probably not going to win. If you don't, you have a shot.”

The Bulls gave it up six times in the loss to Rutgers last season.

Running of the Bulls

South Florida is coming off its best rushing performance in Big East action. It ran for 189 yards on 40 carries (4.7 yards per carry) against West Virginia nearly two weeks ago. The rushing offense has been solid for the most part. It’s rung up at least 122 yards on the ground in every game and its 179.1 yards per game average is 35th overall and third in the Big East.

If the Bulls can hit that average, they’ll come away with the win but it won’t be easy. Rutgers is allowing 106.8 ypg on 3.3 ypg on the season and that’s after allowing 223 yards against Pittsburgh three games back and 197 yards against run-oriented Army.

South Florida is 5-0 when it wins the rushing battle and 1-2 when it does not. On the other side, Rutgers is 4-0 when it has the ground edge and just 2-2 when the opposition does so it is fairly safe to say the winner of the line of scrimmage wins the game.

Revenge on mind

South Florida won the first ever meeting between these two teams back in 2005 but Rutgers has won the last three meetings. The last two have been particularly painful for the Bulls and they have had this game circled ever since last year’s setback.

Several of South Florida’s players spoke about being embarrassed by the outcome of last year's 49-16 home loss to Rutgers, with some reportedly taking offense to the Scarlet Knights passing the ball when the game was out of reach in the fourth quarter.

Rutgers aired it out early in the fourth quarter up 35-16 and connected on a 93-yard touchdown pass.

The loss the year before might have even more painful. South Florida went to New Brunswick with a 6-0 record and ranked No. 2 in the country. Rutgers came away with a 30-27 win and the fans rushed the field. The Bulls went on to lose three straight games.

Trends

The Bulls are 0-4 ATS in their last four Thursday night games.

Rutgers is 6-1 ATS in its last seven games as an underdog and is 4-1 ATS in its last five games as a home underdog of a field goal or less. The Scarlet Knights are 1-11 ATS in home games following a game where they committed no turnovers.

The over has come through in all four previous meetings.

NFL Thursday Night Football
By Doug Upstone

Its the first of six consecutive games on the NFL Network package. These games have tended to be fair (as in OK) matchups, with the league not trying to anger the other networks that help keep the coffers nicely stocked with cash. Of course the NFL bosses will throw around money to prevent sports bettors from having legalized gambling, thus what they are really doing is providing one game on their network for the enjoyment of those that can afford the NFL Network for the enjoyment of all their fans, having absolutely nothing to do with sports wagering. (Wink, wink)

The Setup

The first Thursday night game of the NFL season pits two fringe playoff contenders in the NFC against one another. San Francisco (3-5, 5-2-1 ATS) is playing at home and as the small favorite, which could prove important, since favorites are 24-6 ATS on Thursday games going back five seasons. Its also notable since favorites are on a run of 7-0 SU and 6-1 ATS in the last seven games between these teams, each time the host club in the role of the chalk. The 49ers are on a four-game losing skid, but have won five of last seven at home. Chicago (4-4 SU&ATS) is on a 25-11 ATS run on the road in November, but just 1-3 SU and ATS on the road this season, being outscored by 10.5 points per game while turning the ball over 13 times. The Bears are not playing well, having lost three of their last four tries.

Why Watch

Mike Singletary is a legend in Chicago, for his fiery play and intensity (those bulging eyes shots are classic) and ended up the Hall of Fame. Now he faces his old team as the coach.

Though it was before Singletary was head coach, a bit of bad blood exists between these teams front offices. In 2006, the Bears brought tampering charges against the 49ers for pursuing linebacker Lance Briggs, who was in the midst of a contract dispute with the Bears. The NFL ruled against San Fran, and they were docked a fifth-round pick in the 2008 draft.

This contest features two of the better tight ends on the NFC with Vernon Davis and Greg Olson, the latter coming off three touchdown game.

Which quarterback will throw more game-changing interceptions to drive sport bettor insane? Alex Smith has five picks in basically 2.5 games and Jay Cutler has just what you get at Dunkin Donuts, a dozen.

Why Wager

Do you really care about the NBA yet? Yea didnt think so. The Bears are 6-0 ATS having lost three out of their last four games over the last three seasons. San Francisco is 8-16 ATS after allowing 28 or more points.

Some might be of the opinion Chicago is more done than the last of the leaves that were just raked up and the Bears are 1-8 ATS after gaining six or more yards play in their previous game. Besides, the Niners are 5-2-1 ATS after an L.

The Line

Betonline.com has 49ers by 3 with total of 43.5.

What Happens

The aforementioned Mr. Briggs steps his play up and tries to compensate for crummy secondary by playing the run like a stud and blitzes QB Smith into mistakes. Defensive lineman Tommie Harris finally decides to play football and not look like the second coming of Alonzo Spellman. The Chicago wide receivers are the worst in the NFL and most have no clue how to run deep routes. Throw short and hope they make a move to use exceptional speed.

Of course for every action there is a reaction and San Francisco would be making a huge mistake not keeping Smith in the shotgun as much as possible. Hes obviously more comfortable in it from his college days and reads the field better. Remember the strength of the offense was supposed to be the line, ask Frank Gore what he thinks about that notion with all his one and two yard gains. Block somebody. Excuse the 49ers secondary if they smile a lot facing the Bears wideouts, put any kind of pressure on Cutler and they are covered like blanket.

The Outcome

Forecaster picks San Fran to cover

South Florida Bulls vs. Rutgers Scarlet Knights
By Who2BetOn

The Scarlet Knights look to protect their house when the 23rd ranked Bulls come a calling for a Thursday night Big East battle under the ESPN lights.

Both the South Florida Bulls (6-2, 6-2 ATS) and Rutgers Scarlet Knights (6-2, 4-4 ATS) enter tonight's Big East clash off outright underdog victories. Last we saw the Bulls, they dominated West Virginia en route to winning their Halloween eve battle with the Mounty's 30-19, while Rutgers went into Storrs and upended UCONN 28-24 as 7.5-point underdogs.

Currently the visiting Bulls are installed as short 1-point road chalks with the game 'total' set at 45.5 for tonight's battle under the lights.

HC Jim Leavitt's Bulls busted out to a 5-0 mark and picked up a conference win at Syracuse before their schedule got a bit tougher. They then fell to both Cincinnati and Pitt in demoralizing fashion before picking up the much needed self confidence building win over a down West Virginia club 12 days ago. They enter tonight's tilt with the Scarlet Knights 2-2 in BE play and 2-2 SU & ATS as a visitor. QB BJ Daniels caught a ton of heat for his back-to-back poor efforts against Cincy and Pitt, but bounced back against the Mountaineers throwing for 232 yards and 3 TDs while picking up another 104 yards on 14 attempts on the ground. The outing was his best since he made the first start of his career at Florida State. Offensively, the Bulls have gotten the job done on the ground averaging 179.1 YPG rushing, and they rank 33rd overall in scoring offense averaging 30.8 PPG; they've been hit or miss through the air (#75 at 205.5 YPG). The defense ranks 24th overall (315.6 YPG), but it's had problems containing opposing ground attacks allowing 130.6 YPG; they rank 23rd in the country in scoring "D" allowing opponents an average of just 17.6 PPG.

Since having its four-game winning streak snapped against PITT at home, HC Greg Schiano's kids have secured back-to-back SU & ATS wins capped with their Halloween win against the Huskies. They host the Bulls knowing they need to make up ground in the Big East having captured just one win (UCONN) while losing to the conference's best (Cincy & PITT). While it hasn't been pretty, Rutgers' offense has gotten the job done with its pounding ground attack (#59 at 146.4 YPG) and heady play of frosh QB Tom Savage who enters tonight's game having thrown for 1341 yards with an 8:1 TD:INT ratio. RB Joe Martinek leads the team on the ground rushing for 601 yards and 7 TDs. He's been nonexistent against the Scarlet Knights tougher opponents this season, and will have to make his presence felt against the Bulls suspect run "D" for Rutgers to hold serve in this spot. The defense ranks 27th overall (322.9 YPG) and 22nd in scoring (17.5 PPG). They excel defending opposing ground games allowing just 106.7 YPG (#25), but are a bit susceptible through the air allowing 216.1 YPG (#55).

Rutgers holds a 3-1 SU advantage in the all time series with South Florida with both squads picking up a pair of ATS victories. The Scarlet Knights pounded the Bulls as 8-point road underdogs last season. The underdog and over has cashed in all four games of this series.

Tips and Trends

Chicago Bears at San Francisco 49ers

Bears: Chicago is both 1-3 SU and ATS on the road this year. In their 3 road losses, the Bears averaged 13 PPG. QB Jay Cutler has 14 TD's and 12 INT's on the season. Cutler has been sacked 19 times this season. Over the past 3 games, the Bears have given up 514 YDS rushing. Being the road team on a short week doesn't do this team any favors either. The offensive and defensive lines need to be much better tonight.

Chicago is 4-1 ATS last 5 games following a SU loss.
Chicago is 0-5-1 ATS last 6 games as a road underdog.

Key Injuries - DT Tommie Harris (knee) is probable.
S Kevin Payne (back) is questionable.

PROJECTED SCORE: 21

49ers (-3, O/U 43): 49ers have lost 4 consecutive games. 49ers have 11 turnovers in last 4 games. 49ers had 2 turnovers in first 4 games. QB Alex Smith has been very shaky since taking over the starting position, and had 3 INT's and 2 fumbles in his last game. 49ers will need RB Frank Gore to have a big game. Gore is healthy now, and has a 6.2 AVG per rush this month with 2 TD's. In this 4 game losing streak, the 49ers have given up 121 points to their opposition.

Home team is 5-1 ATS last 6 meetings in this series.
Over is 12-4 last 16 games as a home favorite.

Key Injuries -CB Nate Clements (shoulder) is out.
RB Frank Gore (eye) is probable.

PROJECTED SCORE: 27 (Side of the Day)

South Florida at Rutgers

South Florida: The Bulls come off a great victory against WVA, and will look to keep the momentum going. The Bulls have lost their last 3 games to Rutgers, so revenge is fresh on their mind. QB B.J. Daniels has rushed for over 100 YDS in 3 games since taking over for injured QB Matt Grothe. South Florida has a very good defensive front 4, headlined by DE's George Selvie and Jason Pierre-Paul. This game is for 4th place in the Big East.

South Florida is 4-11 ATS vs. a team with a winning record.
Over is 7-3 last 10 games following a bye week.

Key Injuries - LB Kion Wilson (thigh) is questionable.
WR Carlton Mitchell (knee) is doubtful.

PROJECTED SCORE: 24

Rutgers (-2.5, O/U 45): The Scarlet Knights come off a home loss in their most recent home game to Pittsburgh. Prior to that, Rutgers had played a cupcake schedule. Rutgers beat UCONN SU as 7.5 underdogs on the road most recently. Their defense has been superb, as they lead the country with a +18 turnover differential. It's rush defense has also been solid, giving up 3.3 YDS per rush. Rutgers will need QB Tom Savage to play with poise, as he faces an aggressive pass rush. The freshman QB has been great at avoiding turnovers up to this point.

Rutgers is 6-1 ATS last 7 games as an underdog.
Over is 12-2 last 14 games following a bye week.

Key Injuries - LB Marcus Witherspoon (leg) is questionable.
OL Desmond Stapleton (ankle) is questionable.

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

NFL Week 10

Bears (4-4) @ 49ers (3-5)-- Long travel on short week for Chicago team that is 1-3 since its bye, with only win against lowly Browns; they're 1-3 on road; its only win was in Seattle with backup QB Wallace playing. Bears are 8-3 in the game after their last 11 losses. 49ers lost last four games, allowing 6.7+ ypp in all four games; they lost field position in all four, by 10-14-7-6 yards. Chicago won last three series games by 10-8-31 points-- all three were in Windy City. Three of 49ers' last four games went over total. In last three games, 49er foes started eight drives in Niner territory, SF none in enemy territory. NFC West home favorites are 3-4 vs spread; NFC North road dogs are 0-5.

South Florida Vs Rutgers Betting Preview
By Vernon Croy

At this point of the year, the conference battles in college football are really starting to heat up. This Thursday night's game between the South Florida Bulls and the Rutgers Scarlet Knights should be no exception.

The Bulls and Knights have had some good battles in the last few years, with Rutgers recently coming out on top. In fact, the Knights beat the Bulls handily when they squared off last season.

This time around, the Bulls have revenge on their mind as they hope to avenge the loss of a season ago. So what should we expect in this one?

The Rutgers Scarlet Knights come into this game with a 6-2 record. However, their conference record of 1-2 has nearly eliminated them from the Big East title race, as powerhouses such as Cincinnati and Pittsburgh are vying for the title. Rutgers has a solid team and is good enough to compete with anyone, which is evident in their victories over South Florida the past few years.

Two years ago, the Bulls were ranked as high as second in the country with a record of 6-0. That very week, it was the Scarlet Knights that handed them their first loss of the season. Rutgers beat them very handily in their only matchup last year as well.

Even though the South Florida Bulls are ranked in the top 25 this week, you should not sleep on Rutgers.

The South Florida Bulls have had a roller coaster of a season. They started off great until the Big Easts all-time leader in offense, Matt Grothe, went down for the season. At that point, freshman quarterback B.J. Daniels came in and picked up where Grothe left off. He managed to lead them to a win over then No. 18 Florida State and later won against Syracuse.

South Florida managed to beat No. 20 West Virginia recently and they are a very talented team that has the ability to beat Rutgers. However, this should be a close game that will likely be decided in the fourth quarter.