NFL News and Notes Sunday 11/1

NFL Cheat Sheet: Week 8 Betting Notes
By SHAWN HARTLEN

Denver Broncos at Baltimore Ravens (-3.5)

Why Broncos cover: They're 6-0 ATS in their last six games. Kyle Orton has done a great job protecting the ball and has only one interception this season. Broncos are 15-5 all-time after a bye week.

Why Ravens cover: Broncos are 1-5-1 ATS in their last seven meetings. Combo of Ray Rice and Willis McGahee are averaging 5.4 yards per carry and make it hard for defenses to key on one player.

Total (41.5): Under is 5-1 in the last six meetings.

Houston Texans at Buffalo Bills (+3.5)

Why Texans cover: They're 5-2 ATS in their last seven road games. Bills are 1-7 ATS in their last eight home games. Buffalo has struggled to cover tight ends all season and Houston has one of the best in Owen Daniels.

Why Bills cover: They have won the last two meetings. They're 2-0 ATS and straight up with Ryan Fitzpatrick as the starting quarterback. Texans' top receiver Andre Johnson is dealing with a bruised lung that could hamper his effectiveness.

Total (40.5): Under is 5-1 in Texans' last six road games and 5-1 in Bills' last six home games.

Cleveland Browns at Chicago Bears (-13.5)

Why Browns cover: They have won three of the past four meetings. Jay Cutler is going through a rough stretch where he has turned over the ball six times in his last two games - both losses. Bears are vulnerable on the ground, allowing almost four yards per carry.

Why Bears cover: They're 3-1-1 ATS in their last five home games. It doesn't matter who is at QB for Cleveland, they can't pass the ball. Browns are averaging 7.3 points per game away from home this season and are 2-5 ATS in their last seven road games.

Total (39.5): Under is 4-1-1 in Browns' last six road games.

Seattle Seahawks at Dallas Cowboys (-9.5)

Why Seahawks cover: They have won four of the past six meetings. Underdog is 4-1 ATS in their last five meetings. Road team is 4-1 ATS in their last five meetings. Dallas has the NFL's 22nd-ranked defense.

Why Cowboys cover: Seahawks are 0-4 ATS in their last four meetings. Tony Romo dismantled the Seahawks last year, throwing for 331 yards and three scores. With 440 yards and four TDs, receiver Miles Austin has responded well to being Romo's go-to-guy. Seattle will be without Lofa Tatupu who has a chest injury.

Total (45): Under is 5-1 in the last six meetings.

St. Louis Rams at Detroit Lions (N/A)

Why Rams cover: They're 9-4 ATS vs. a team with a losing record. Lions will be without Calvin Johnson who has a knee injury. This could be their best chance to notch a win this season and avoid becoming the second winless team in as many years.

Why Lions cover: They have won four of the past six meetings. Could get Matthew Stafford back from his knee injury. Rams are 1-4 ATS in their last five games. Kevin Smith could roll up big yardage on a Rams team allowing over 135 yards per game on the ground.

Total (N/A): Under is 4-1 in Lions' last five home games.

San Francisco 49ers at Indianapolis Colts (-11.5)

Why 49ers cover: They're 4-1-1 ATS in their last six road games and 4-1-2 ATS in their last seven games overall. They have won seven of the last nine meetings with Indy. Former first-overall pick, Alex Smith, was spectacular in place of Shaun Hill last week and will get the start against the Colts. Reggie Wayne could be slowed by a groin injury.

Why Colts cover: They're 5-0 ATS in their last five games, all victories. They have only given up two sacks all season, giving Peyton Manning plenty of time to pick apart defenses.

Total (44): Under is 6-2-1 in 49ers' last nine games on turf.

Miami Dolphins at New York Jets (-3.5)

Why Dolphins cover: Underdog is 4-1-1 ATS in their last six meetings. Road team is 4-1-1 ATS in their last six meetings. Jets will be without Leon Washington, who was lost for the season. Wildcat offense baffled New York in Week 5, a 31-27 victory.

Why Jets cover: They have won eight of the last 11 meetings. Dolphins are 6-20-2 ATS in their last 28 meetings and 2-7-2 ATS in their last 11 meetings in New York. With Will Allen suffering a season-ending injury last week, Miami will start two rookie cornerbacks Sunday.

Total (40.5): Under is 6-1 in Dolphins' last seven road games.

New York Giants at Philadelphia Eagles (-1)

Why Giants cover: They're 4-0 ATS in their last four meetings in Philadelphia. Underdog is 9-0 ATS in their last nine meetings. Road team is 4-0 ATS in their last four meetings. Eagles are likely to be without Brian Westbrook who has a concussion.

Why Eagles cover: Eli Manning (48.5 completion percentage, five turnovers) has struggled in his last two games and could continue his slump versus Philly's seventh-ranked defense. Donovan McNabb has thrown seven TDs to only one interception is his last five games against New York.

Total (44): Under is 5-1 in the last six meetings.

Jacksonville Jaguars at Tennessee Titans (-3)

Why Jaguars cover: Have won three of past four meetings. Underdog is 5-1 ATS in their last six meetings. David Garrard and Mike Sims-Walker should easily dominate a Titans defense that is allowing a whopping 310 yards through the air per game.

Why Titans cover: Team owner is pushing for Vince Young to start over Kerry Collins (62 percent rating) who has been terrible all season. Jacksonville could be without top cornerback Rashean Mathis who has a broken finger. Jaguars are 3-7 ATS in their last 10 meetings in Tennessee.

Total (44.5): Over is 4-1 in Jaguars' last five games and 4-1 in Titans' last five games.

Oakland Raiders at San Diego Chargers (-16.5)

Why Raiders cover: League's 12th-best pass defense could limit Phillip Rivers and Co., forcing the Chargers to run the ball - something they are second to last in the NFL at doing. Out-played San Diego in their season opener, covering as 10-point underdogs.

Why Chargers cover: They have won 12 straight meetings. Raiders will stick with JaMarcus Russell at QB despite his benching last week. Favorite is 10-2 ATS in their last 12 meetings. Raiders are 2-11 ATS in their last 13 meetings and 1-5 ATS in their last six meetings in San Diego

Total (41.5): Under is 3-0-1 in the last four meetings in San Diego.

Carolina Panthers at Arizona Cardinals (-10)

Why Panthers cover: They have won five of the past six meetings. Underdog is 6-2 ATS in their last eight meetings. Road team is 4-0 ATS in their last four meetings. Arizona struggles to run the ball which will give Julius Peppers and the Panthers' top-rated pass defense a chance to key in on Kurt Warner.

Why Cardinals cover: They're 9-2 ATS in their last 11 games. NFL best run defense could force Jake Delhomme, who is on the verge of losing his starting job, to try and beat them with his arm. Larry Fitzgerald has 440 yards receiving with two TDs in his last four games against the Panthers.

Total (42.5): Over is 12-4 in Cardinals' last 16 home games and 6-1 in Panthers' last seven road games.

Minnesota Vikings at Green Bay Packers (-3)

Why Vikings cover: They're 7-2 ATS in their last nine meetings in Green Bay. Brett Favre will make his first return to Lambeau Field as an opposing player. Favre beat Green Bay in Week 4 (and also covered), tossing 271 yards and three TDs. Road team is 11-4 ATS in their last 15 meetings. Underdog is 16-5 ATS in their last 21 meetings.

Why Packers cover: They have won six of the last seven meetings. Vikings are 1-4 ATS in their last five meetings. Aaron Rodgers is one of the NFL's top ranked QBs and should have success against the Vikings' 19th-ranked pass defense, especially with cornerback Antoine Winfield out.

Total (47): Under is 4-1 in the last five meetings in Green Bay.

Atlanta Falcons at New Orleans Saints (-10)

Why Falcons cover: Michael Turner could batter a Saints' defensive line is already banged up. After a slow start, Roddy White has caught fire totaling 316 yards and four touchdowns in his last three games. Matt Ryan has thrown for 563 yards with four total TDs in his last two games against New Orleans.

Why Saints cover: They have won five of the last six meetings. Falcons are 3-7 ATS in their last 10 meetings and 1-4 ATS in their last five meetings in New Orleans. Drew Brees is 5-1 against Atlanta since joining the Saints.

Total (54): Over is 15-5-1 in Saints' last 21 home games and 19-7-1 in their last 27 games overall.

Trend Setters - Week 8
By Kevin Rogers

A new week is here in the NFL, and with that more trends become available to peruse. The most reliable trend this NFL season has been backing favorites, as 'chalk' in Week 7 finished 10-2-1 ATS. What's even more disturbing is the 80% stat in which favorites that win straight-up this season are 56-14-1 ATS. The lines will get bigger as the gap continues to open between the league's good and bad teams, but we have four games circled that provide solid trends.

Dolphins at Jets (-3½, 40½)

These two teams met three weeks ago at Landshark Stadium, as Miami won a see-saw battle, 31-27 over New York on Monday Night Football. The Dolphins have now won and covered consecutive games against the Jets, including the Week 17 victory last season at the Meadowlands.

The Jets snapped a three-game skid with a 38-0 blowout of the Raiders to move to 4-3 on the season. New York has not been profitable as a home favorite since 2007, racking up a 4-7-1 ATS mark. Despite the loss at Miami, the Jets have owned this series, compiling a 9-2-1 ATS record the last 12 games against the Dolphins.

Miami looks to rebound after giving away a 21-point lead to New Orleans last week, as the Dolphins fared well last season on the road inside their division. The Fins went 3-0 SU/ATS in 2008 against the AFC East away from South Florida and are 5-3 ATS as a road 'dog under Tony Sparano.

Giants at Eagles (-1, 44)

It will be a great Sunday in the City of Brotherly Love as these two NFC East rivals throw down prior to Game 4 of the World Series between the Yankees and Phillies. The Eagles bounced back nicely after a surprising loss at Oakland by beating down Washington. The Giants, meanwhile, look to snap a two-game skid after slipping up against the Saints and Cardinals.

The Giants have been solid plays in two situations over the last few seasons going into this contest. Since 2006, Tom Coughlin's team is 8-2 ATS on the road inside the NFC East, including an underdog victory at Dallas in Week 2. The Giants have lost 22 games dating back to 2005, as New York has bounced back nicely with a 15-7 ATS mark following a SU loss.

The Eagles have struggled in the role of a home team off consecutive road games, going 1-7 ATS the last eight in this spot. However, Philadelphia is 8-2 ATS the last ten off a road division victory.

Seven of the last nine meetings have been won by the road team, while the underdog covered all nine times. The Giants are 4-0 ATS and 3-1 SU their last four trips to Lincoln Financial Field.

Texans (-3½, 41½) at Bills

Houston has been a nice surprise through the first seven weeks, starting 4-3. What's even more surprising is the fact that Gary Kubiak's team is favored on the road for only the fourth time in franchise history. The Bills, meanwhile, who seemed like a train-wreck through four weeks, have all of the sudden won consecutive road games to improve to 3-4.

This is not a prime spot to back the Texans (who are the only road favorite this week in the NFL), as Houston owns a 4-16 ATS mark in franchise history on the road off a home win. Also, the Texans have struggled against the AFC East recently, going 0-6 ATS their last six, including a Week 1 loss at home to the Jets as a three-point favorite.

The Bills have somehow scratched out victories the last two weeks, beating the Jets in overtime, then holding off the Panthers in Charlotte. Under Dick Jauron, Buffalo is 6-1 ATS as a home underdog off a SU 'dog win, winning outright as seven-point underdogs last week at Carolina.

Jaguars at Titans (-3, 44½)

Both these teams are coming off the bye week, but both are definitely in different states of mind. Jacksonville is 3-3 after knocking off St. Louis in overtime, while Tennessee tries to forget about the 59-0 pounding put on them at New England. The Titans are one of three winless teams in the league at 0-6, as Jeff Fisher is undecided on who will start at quarterback this week.

The Jags have covered twice on the road against division opponents this season, cashing as a touchdown underdog at Indianapolis, while winning outright as a field goal 'dog in Houston. Jacksonville is now 5-2 ATS the last seven games as a road underdog against the AFC South. Despite getting blown out in their last road contest at Seattle, the Jags are 10-6 ATS when getting points away from Jacksonville since 2007.

The Titans continue to be an absolute mess following a 13-3 season a year ago. Tennessee has already lost at Jacksonville this season, but the following trend will flat-out scare you about the Titans. Under Jeff Fisher, the Titans are a startling 1-17 ATS as a home favorite of three points or more against an opponent who is coming off a SU win of less than ten points. Is that reason enough to fade Tennessee? Probably not, but it's hard to buy into the due factor with a team that has likely packed it in for the season.

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Total Talk - Week 8
By Chris David

Week 7 Recap

The scoreboard operator was working hard last weekend as nine teams posted 30 points or more, plus the Colts (42), Bengals (45) and Saints (46) eclipsed the 40-point barrier. With the good comes the bad and we’d be remiss not to mention the putrid Raiders (0), Browns (3), Rams (6), Buccaneers (7) and Chiefs (7). The five attacks combined for 23 points, which is one point more than what New Orleans put up in the fourth quarter (22) against Miami last week.

After all the results were tallied, the ‘over’ produced a 7-6-1 mark. After seven weeks, the ‘over’ stands at 54-49-1 (52%). Six of the 13 contests on tap this week are divisional battles, which usually dictate defense. The weekly bye is quickly coming to a close but make a note that the Bengals, Chiefs, Patriots, Steelers, Bucs and Redskins will be off this weekend.

Finally…

Heading into last Sunday, gamblers chasing the ‘over’ in the late afternoon games have been burned and burned badly. The ‘under’ was 17-7 (71%) in the 4:00 ET matchups through the first six weeks. It’s often been said in sports gambling that all things balance out in the long run and we evidenced that last week. Four of the five games played in the afternoon set went ‘over’ and rather easily too. The five games saw a combined 52 PPG posted, including an 80-spot between the Saints and Dolphins. Will the trends continue in Week 8?

Nice to see you again!

Handicapping totals in division battles can often give the player an edge since the sample size to analyze is much larger. One total system that some bettors follow in these situations could be defined as the vice versa play. If the first regular season outcome between the two teams goes ‘over’ or ‘under’ the listed total by 10 points or more, then do the opposite in the second meeting. More often than not, the total is adjusted based off the first total, which gives more of an edge to the play. Let’s take a look at the four games this week and see if they fit the system.

Miami at N.Y. Jets (40.5): In the first meeting on Oct. 12, the oddsmakers were expecting a slugfest between the two clubs. The total opened at 37 and was bet down to 36 at most books, which is strange considering the game was on MNF. Sure enough, the Dolphins stopped the Jets 31-27 and the game went ‘over’ the number but it was helped with a 35-point explosion in the final 15 minutes. Since the game went ‘over’ the posted number by 22 points and the total is inflated by four points in the second meeting, an ‘under’ look fits the vice versa system. Plus, Miami has seen the ‘over’ go 3-0 behind Chad Henne at QB but all three were at home. The Jets’ defense has given up 9, 17 and 16 at home this year and most would expect head coach Rex Ryan to look for revenge in the rematch.

Jacksonville at Tennessee (44.5): The Jaguars posted a season-high 37 points on Oct. 4 in their 37-17 victory over the Titans. The 54 points jumped ‘over’ the total of 41 ½ points largely due to a 30-spot posted in the first half. Again, the game sailed above the oddsmakers’ number and now they readjusted to the ‘over’ by four points. Well, the Titans’ defense (33 PPG) has been torched up and down this season, most recently giving up 59 to the Patriots. The unit is banged up a bit but you have to believe that the extra week of rest will have Jeff Fisher’s team ready, right? Another question this writer asks, is QB Vince Young really the answer for Tennessee? In his career against the Jags, he’s completing 53 percent to go with 8 interceptions.

You be the judge…

Oakland at San Diego (41.5): The Chargers nipped the Raiders 24-20 in the Week 1 MNF opener at Oakland. The 44 points barely slipped ‘over’ the total of 43.5 and it was amazing how it hit. SD held a 17-13 lead with less then three minutes left before JaMarcus Russell connected on a prayer to Louis Murphy, giving the Raiders a 20-17 lead. Then, SD marched down the field and punched in the go-ahead score. While the aforementioned system doesn’t fit here, an ‘under’ look seems doable, especially when you consider Oakland’s offense (8.9 PPG). Plus, in the last four meetings between the two from Qualcomm Stadium, the Raiders have scored 7, 10, 14 and 14. Just hope the Bolts don’t explode and it might be ugly for Tom Cable’s crew – again.

Minnesota at Green Bay (47.5): This matchup could’ve fit the above criteria but the Packers and Vikings started hot in the first meeting but cooled off late. Minnesota earned a 30-23 win over Green Bay on Oct. 5 at home. The Vikings led 28-14 with 10 minutes left in the third quarter before they closed with 11 in the fourth. Brett Favre was sharp (271 yards, 3 TDs) in the first meeting but it makes you wonder how he’ll do in his return to Lambeau. Four of the last five in this series have gone ‘over’ but the Packers’ defense has only give up three points in their last two albeit against the Lions and Browns. Green Bay has watched the ‘under’ go 2-0 in its two divisional games at home. Dare we say three?

Quick Hits

Denver at Baltimore: The Broncos have been a crazy ‘under’ team (5-1) this year, while the Ravens have seen the ‘over’ go 4-2. Denver’s defense hasn’t folded in the second-half all season long. Will the extra week off hurt or help the red-hot Broncos?

Cleveland at Chicago: The Browns have scored 6, 3, 6 and 14 on the road this year. And seven of the 14-spot came on a kickoff return touchdown by Cleveland’s MVP, Joshua Cribbs.

Houston at Buffalo: Don’t look now but the Bills’ defense is playing great football. In their last three, the team has given up a total of 28 points, which has helped the ‘under’ cash in all three. Was it a matter of competition?

San Francisco at Indianapolis: Another defense that is clicking right now is the Colts. The unit has allowed an average of 10.5 PPG in the last four games. The 49ers put up 21 last week, all in the second hall and all behind QB Alex Smith. Can he carry that over?

St. Louis at Detroit: One of the key factors that you look for when betting totals is the strength of the defensive units and it’s safe to say that the Lions (31.3) and Rams (30.1) are both garbage. Does a bad defense stop a bad offense? We’ll find out on Sunday at Ford Field.

Carolina at Arizona: The Cardinals were a clear-cut ‘over’ team last year but things have changed in the desert. Arizona has seen the ‘under’ go 5-1 this year, including a perfect 3-0 mark at home. Carolina’s offense is in a funk but they’ve played better away from home.

Shootout in NOLA

The Saints are averaging a league-best 39.7 PPG and what’s most impressive is the balance on offense, plus the opportunistic defense. The offense is ranked seventh in passing (272 YPG) and third in rushing (154.5 YPG). Defensively, the unit has accounted for five touchdowns. Atlanta comes to The Big Easy this weekend after giving up 37 to the Cowboys last Sunday, which was the worst effort of the season. The last three in this series have gone ‘over’ the total and the oddsmakers had posted totals of 50.5 and 51.5 in the pair of regular season encounters in 2008. Now the number is up to 55. It’s high for a reason and don’t be surprised to see it rise.

The ‘over’ is 7-1 (88%) on Monday Night Football this year and the books keep pumping up the numbers. Gamblers should make a note that there have been only two totals listed at 50 or higher this year and both have went ‘under’ the number.

Fearless Predictions

We’re hoping to get back on the winning train this weekend after suffering our second straight losing week. On the year, the totals have gone 6-6 (-60) and the teasers are 2-4 (-200). Based on one-unit plays, we’re in the hole for $260 but a sweep this week will put us in the BLACK. As always, press, pass or fade. Good Luck!

Best Over: Seahawks-Cowboys 46

We played the Dallas ‘over’ last week and we’re going to ride it again here. The Cowboys’ offense has balance plus the big-play ability is starting to shine through the air. Seattle’s strength is its passing game and we expect them to throw out the running game after getting behind early. This one hits the fifties if not more provided you put up sixes.

Best Under: Texans-Bills 41.5

We don’t like Buffalo QB Ryan Fitzpatrick but we do like the Bills’ defense. Houston hasn’t been a good team after a victory according to franchise history and we expect them to be flat here. The Bills have seen their last two at home go ‘under’ and we look for three straight on Sunday.

Three-Team Total Teaser (9-Point, +100)
Over Seahawks-Cowboys 37
Under Texans-Bills 50.5
Under Dolphins-Jets 49.5

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Bitter Rivals Clash
By Judd Hall

There will be no Sunday Night Football this weekend thanks to the World Series. That doesn’t mean we’re going to be without marquee matchups in Week 8 of the NFL season. We’re going to open up things in Philly with the Eagles playing host to the Giants. Then we head to Green Bay where some fellow named Brett Favre will lead his Vikings into a battle with the Packers in a classic NFC North showdown.

Giants at Eagles – 1:00 p.m. EST, Fox

As if the tension in the City of Brotherly Love wasn’t already high for the Fall Classic, we’ve got this classic rivalry to use as an appetizer.

New York (5-2 straight up, 4-3 against the spread) started the year off with five straight wins, sending its fans into a lathered frenzy. Two consecutive losses, however, have tempered some of the expectations of the Giants.

The G-men’s most recent setback came last Sunday night on national television by falling to Arizona as eight-point home favorites, 24-17.

When you look at last week’s game, you can tell there wasn’t a lot of rhythm to what New York was doing on the field. The Giants only converted four of their 15 third downs and six of their 15 drives ended after just three plays.

So where do you pin the blame for the Giants’ woes? A lot of it can be laid at the feet of Eli Manning. New York’s signal caller has completed 49 percent of his passes for 421 yards with two touchdowns and four picks in his last two starts – both losses, by the way. Compare that to the Manning who opened the year with 64 completion percentage, averaging 242.4 yards per game with 10 scores to just a pair of interceptions.

Not all the fault is Manning’s though. New York’s secondary has been the bane of its existence recently. They have given up 576 yards through the air to the Cardinals and Saints over the last two weeks. That’s scary considering this unit is second in the league by giving up just 158.4 passing YPG.

They’ll need to step it up this week against Philadelphia (4-2 SU, ATS), who is coming off of a 27-17 road victory over the Redskins.

While it doesn’t come as a surprise that the Eagles were able to beat a lowly Washington side, there is reason for concern. The most important thing to note is the fact that the ‘Skins actually outgained Philly 308-262 last Monday night. The lowly Raiders even won the yardage battle (325-283) along with the final score the week before.

Bodog’s sportsbook manager, Richard Gardner, points out that Philadelphia’s recent play has made the betting shops shy of favoring them. “The Eagles inconsistent play and their loss to the Raiders a couple weeks back have mad the public more leery of backing them again and led to the Giants as the one point favorite. In a season where all the double-digit favorites have not only been winning regularly but covering with ease bettors are less forgiving of that stinker that the Eagles put up. Still it is a division game which is always close and the Eagles do have home field advantage so we expect the game will continue as is with the Giants as a small favorite.”

That helps explain why most sportsbooks have installed New York as a one-point road favorite with a total of 44. You can still find Philly as a one-point home “chalk” or as a pick ‘em if you shop around with the same total.

Philly has won and covered the last to meetings with its bitter NFC East rival. The ‘under’ has cashed in on a decent clip as it is 5-1 over the last six battles.

Something else to keep in mind on this battle is that the Eagles are playing on a short week after a Monday Night Football appearance. Philadelphia has been a great wager in this spot, as evidenced by a 15-6 SU and 15-5-1 ATS mark when playing at home after a MNF game.

Vikings at Packers – 4:15 p.m. EST, Fox

Green Bay (4-2 SU, ATS) already had this game marked down on their calendars since it is one of the league’s best rivalries before the season started. Then they really looked forward to this match after Brett Favre unretired again to play with the Vikings. Now, they are desperate to win this contest to get back into the NFC North race.

The Packers were lucky to get the greatest warmup the NFL knows this season, a game with the Browns. Aaron Rodgers sliced them up by completing 15 of his 20 passes for 246 yards and three touchdowns. He was never sacked once in this game, the first time that’s happened to him all season.

Green Bay also holds one of the best defenses in the league right now. They rank fifth in scoring defense (16.0 points per game), 12th in stopping the run (97.5 YPG) and fourth against the pass (174.0 YPG).

The Pack will need their defense to be at their best to face off against Minnesota (6-1 SU, 4-3 ATS).

The Vikings might have been caught in a look-ahead spot for this week after losing 27-17 to Pittsburgh in Week 7. Although, they should have won this game had it not been for a fumble return and interception returned for a touchdown in the fourth quarter.

Favre completed 34 of 51 of his passes for 334 yards, but was directly responsible for both of the Steelers’ fourth quarter scores. Adrian Peterson showed that he’s once again a beast by rushing 18 times for 69 yards and one touchdown last Sunday. Peterson also caught four passes for 60 yards.

Minnesota’s defense had a fantastic day versus the Steelers. They held Pittsburgh to just 259 yards and allowed them to move the chains four times on 12 occasions. And the Vikes held Ben Roethlisberger to just 175 yards passing – the worst performance yardage-wise in a regular season game since Week of 17 of the 2008 campaign against Cleveland.

The sportsbooks have posted Green Bay as a standard three-point home “chalk” with a total of 47. Gamblers can back the Vikings to win outright for a plus-155 return (risk $100 to win $155).

Gardner helps explain what is expected by the good people at Bodog. “With this game we expect it to be a close divisional game although as we saw with their last match up it does not always work out that.”

Would an unblemished Minnesota side made any difference to that line? “ If the Vikings had beat the Steelers and gone in to the game undefeated we would have still have Green Bay as a favorite but we would have come off the key number of three and had it as the Packers by two.”

Regardless of what the line is right now, the Pack just better hope to hold off the dogs for Rodgers. Minnesota was able to sack the Green Bay quarterback eight times for 42 yards in a 30-23 win as a five-point home favorite.

Green Bay’s offensive line will be scrutinized all the more after the aforementioned performance. Center Scott Wells will remain the starter as Jason Spitz will be “out” of the lineup with a bout of lower back spasms. Rookie left tackle T.J. Lang is still slated to start this weekend as Chad Clifton is “out” with an aggravated ankle sprain. But Allen Barbre on the right side of the o-line will be under the microscope the most after he was Jared Allen’s whipping boy in the last meeting in Minnesota.

This series has been a bit on the homer side with the home teams winning four of the last five games SU. However, gamblers should note that the Pack has been 4-2 ATS in that stretch. The ‘over’ is on a 4-1 run as well.

Green Bay has been great in games as a home “chalk” that follow up a tilt they allowed three points in, as evidenced by a 6-2 SU mark. When it comes to covering the spread, on the other hand, the Pack is just 3-5 ATS.

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What Bettors Need to Know: Vikings at Packers
By VICTOR RYAN

Round 2

It was only a month ago that Brett Favre became the first quarterback in league history to beat all 32 NFL teams when leading the Vikings to a 30-23 win over the Packers as 4.5-point home favorites. Favre now returns to Green Bay for the first time to face his old team in what promises to be an emotionally-charged division battle.

The Vikings took Round 1 despite being outgained by the Packers 424-334. That was due in large part to a pair of Packers’ turnovers and a monster Minnesota pass rush that sacked Aaron Rodgers eight times.

Hold that line

The Vikings (6-1 SU, 4-3 ATS) boast the league’s best pass rush with 24 sacks this season. Defensive end Jared Allen was virtually unstoppable in these teams first matchup as he had 4.5 sacks, a forced fumble and a safety. He figures to be licking his chops once again as the Packers’ offensive line, which ranks 31st with 25 sacks allowed, remains in flux.

Starting left tackle Chad Clifton is continuing to battle an ankle injury, which could leave rookie T.J. Lang to start in his place for the second straight game. There is also uncertainty at center as Jason Spitz deals with a lower-back injury that could keep him sidelined.

On the flip side, the Packers pass rush was anemic in Minnesota. Green Bay (4-2 SU, 4-2 ATS) barely got any pressure on Favre, who was 24-of-31 for 271 and three touchdowns. He did not throw an interception, wasn’t sacked and, in fact, was barely even touched.

Despite the lack of pass rush, Packers’ defensive coordinator Dom Capers indicated there won’t be more blitz packages dialed up this time to pressure Favre.

“We could go out and blitz every down and probably hit Brett Favre,” Capers said. “But our chance of winning the game, I think, goes down.”

Capers said it wasn’t necessarily the lack of pass rush that did in the Packers, but instead focused on third-down defense, making stops in the redzone and limiting big plays.

The Vikings were 8-of-14 on third down, perfect in the redzone and 123 of their 334 yards of total offense came on four plays, all passes.

Rounding into form

The Packers have reeled off consecutive wins by a combined score of 59-3 since their loss to the Vikings. However, those wins did come against two of the league’s worst teams in Cleveland and Detroit. The beleaguered Packers’ offensive line does have something to build on as it did not allow a sack to the Browns - the first time that has happened this year.

“They’re going to need to carry over the same kind of confidence they had against Cleveland into this game and hopefully be able to give me some time,” Rodgers told the Green Bay Press-Gazette. “Personally, I need to get the ball out of my hands as quickly as possible to get it to our playmakers and let them do their job.”

The Vikings are coming off their first straight-up loss of the season, a 27-17 setback at Pittsburgh as 6-point underdogs.

More injuries

Vikings’ Pro Bowl cornerback Antoine Winfield was ruled out for the second consecutive week because of a foot injury. He will be replaced in the defensive backfield by the three-man committee of Karl Paymah, Asher Allen and Benny Sapp, each of whom played well vs. the Steelers last week, Vikings’ coaches said.

"It's hard to replace a Pro Bowl corner in our league that does all the things that Antoine does for our defense, but it was great to see Paymah, Asher and Benny step in and play the way they played," defensive coordinator Leslie Frazier told the Associated Press. "We are going to need it again this week."

Receiver Bernard Berrian (hamstring) was listed as questionable as was Percy Harvin, who returned to practice Friday after missing work the previous day.

The big news on the injury front for the Packers is the status of starting tight end Jermichael Finley, who is doubtful. The second-year pro caught six balls for 128 yards and a touchdown in these teams first matchup. He did not practice this week but could still see game action, according to coaches.

“Jermichael is unique,” Packers coach Mike McCarthy told the Green Bay Press-Gazette. “I think we all recognize that as far as the matchup opportunities that he gives you, which was evident in the game up there in Minnesota.”

Line movement

The Packers have held steady as 3-point favorites, but the total has been bet down to 47 at most shops after opening at 48.5.

Weather

The forecast for Green Bay calls for partly cloudy skies with a high of 48 degrees. Showers are set to arrive later in the evening.

Trends

The Vikings are 5-1 ATS in their last six games following a straight-up loss….4-1 ATS in their last five road game…7-2 ATS in their last nine meetings in Green Bay.

The Packers are 4-1 ATS in their last five games as a favorite…8-2 ATS in their last 10 vs. NFC North.

The Under is 4-1 in the last five head-to-head meetings in Green Bay.

Week 8's Biggest Betting Mismatches
By DAVID JONES

San Francisco 49ers at Indianapolis Colts (-13, 45)

San Francisco's rush defense vs. Indianapolis rush offense

The 49ers are sixth in the NFL in rushing defense while ranking in a tie for second in yards per carry allowed at 3.3. Standout linebacker Patrick Willis, who led the NFC in tackles a year ago, is fourth in the conference in tackles this season.

Even with first-round draft pick Donald Brown in the backfield, the Colts’ running game is 27th in the league. While Brown is averaging a solid 4.6 yards per carry on 46 attempts, Joseph Addai has been held to just 3.3 yards per attempt on 82 carries. With Brown doubtful for the contest due to a shoulder injury, Addai will be counted on to step up Sunday.

Miami Dolphins at New York Jets (-3.5, 40.5)

New York's pass defense vs. Miami's pass offense

After giving up a game-winning touchdown in the final seconds earlier this season at Miami, the Jets’ defense will be eager for a rematch with the Dolphins. With the NFL's seventh-ranked passing defense, New York will look to disrupt a young quarterback making his first career road start.

Miami signal-caller Chad Henne is still a work in progress for the league's 26th-ranked passing offense. After a couple of strong efforts against the Bills and Jets, Henne's confidence could be a little shaken after a 45.0 QB rating in last week's collapse against the Saints.

Atlanta Falcons at New Orleans Saints (-11, 55)

New Orleans pass offense vs. Atlanta's pass defense

The improved balance of the New Orleans offense in 2009 has made the team's air attack more lethal this season. The NFL's sixth-ranked passing unit can unload on defenses that must also respect the Saints emerging ground game.

The Falcons are 26th in the league in passing defense. Atlanta has struggled on the road already this season against Tom Brady and Tony Romo. It could be a long night on Monday against Drew Brees.

Carolina Panthers at Arizona Cardinals (-10, 41.5)

Arizona's third-down defense vs. Carolina's third-down offense

The Cardinals’ improved defense has been evident in several areas. One of the improvements has been an ability to stop drives with their third-down defense. The unit is third in the league in third-down conversion percentage defense.

In his last seven starts, Carolina QB Jake Delhomme has been picked off 18 times with only five TD passes. The run began with last year's woeful playoff effort against the Cardinals. With the league's 23rd-ranked third-down conversion percentage offense, Delhomme and the Panthers are likely to face more problems against Arizona in a playoff rematch.

Cleveland Browns at Chicago Bears (-13, 40)

Josh Cribbs vs. Chicago's kick return defense

Cleveland kick return specialist Josh Cribbs has been the lone offensive weapon for the Browns in 2009. He leads the NFL in kick return yardage and is fourth in average per return at 28.9. His kick return TD at Pittsburgh helped the Browns gain a cover against the Steelers.

The Bears are 26th in the NFL in kick return average defense.

Seattle Seahawks vs. Dallas Cowboys

The Seattle Seahawks and the Dallas Cowboys will both be gunning for a victory on Sunday when they meet at Cowboys Stadium.

Oddsmakers currently have the Cowboys listed as 10-point favorites versus the Seahawks, while the game's total is sitting at 46.

The Seahawks lost to Arizona 27-3 as a 3-point favorite in Week 6. The combined score fell UNDER the posted over/under total (46).

Matt Hasselbeck passed for 112 yards with an interception for Seattle and Julius Jones rushed for five yards on five carries.

The Cowboys defeated Atlanta 37-21 as a 5-point favorite in Week 7. The combined score went OVER the posted over/under total (48).

Tony Romo passed for 311 yards with three touchdowns for Dallas, while Miles Austin caught six passes for 171 yards and two touchdowns in the win.

Current streak:
Dallas has won 2 straight games.

Team records:
Seattle: 2-4 SU, 2-4 ATS
Dallas: 4-2 SU, 3-3 ATS

Seattle most recently:
When playing in November are 4-6
When playing on turf are 4-6
After being outgained are 3-7
When playing outside the division are 2-8

Dallas most recently:
When playing in November are 9-1
When playing on turf are 6-4
After outgaining opponent are 5-5
When playing outside the division are 7-3

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

Next up:
Seattle home to Detroit, Sunday, November 8
Dallas at Philadelphia, Sunday, November 8

St. Louis Rams vs. Detroit Lions

The fans at Ford Field will be treated to a game between the St. Louis Rams and the Detroit Lions when they take their seats on Sunday.

Oddsmakers currently have the Lions listed as 4-point favorites versus the Rams, while the game's total is sitting at 43½.

The Rams lost to Indianapolis 42-6 as a 14.5-point underdog in Week 7. The combined score went OVER the posted over/under total (45).

Marc Bulger passed for 140 yards with two interceptions for St. Louis and Steven Jackson rushed for 134 yards on 23 carries.

The Lions lost to Green Bay 26-0 as a 14-point underdog in Week 6. The combined score fell UNDER the posted over/under total (48).

Drew Stanton passed for 57 yards with two interceptions for Detroit and Kevin Smith rushed for 61 yards on 15 carries.

Current streak:
St. Louis has lost 7 straight games.
Detroit has lost 3 straight games.

Team records:
St. Louis: 0-7 SU, 2-5 ATS
Detroit: 1-5 SU, 2-4 ATS

St. Louis most recently:
When playing in November are 3-7
When playing on turf are 0-10
After being outgained are 0-10
When playing outside the division are 0-10

Detroit most recently:
When playing in November are 1-9
When playing on turf are 1-9
After being outgained are 0-10
When playing outside the division are 1-9

A few trends to consider:
The total has gone OVER in 4 of St. Louis's last 5 games
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of St. Louis's last 6 games on the road
St. Louis is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games when playing Detroit
St. Louis is 2-5 ATS in its last 7 games when playing Detroit
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Detroit's last 5 games at home
Detroit is 5-2 ATS in its last 7 games when playing St. Louis
The total has gone OVER in 10 of Detroit's last 15 games
Detroit is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games when playing St. Louis

Next up:
St. Louis home to New Orleans, Sunday, November 15
Detroit at Seattle, Sunday, November 8

Miami Dolphins vs. New York Jets

The Miami Dolphins and the New York Jets will meet on the gridiron at Giants Stadium on Sunday in a battle of division rivals.

Oddsmakers currently have the Jets listed as 3½-point favorites versus the Dolphins, while the game's total is sitting at 41.

The Dolphins lost to New Orleans 46-34 as a 6.5-point underdog in Week 7. The combined score went OVER the posted over/under total (48).

Chad Henne passed for 211 yards with two interceptions for Miami and Ricky Williams rushed for 80 yards and three touchdowns on nine carries.

The Jets defeated Oakland 0-0 as a 6-point favorite in Week 7. The combined score went OVER the posted over/under total (34).

Shonn Greene rushed for 144 yards and two touchdowns on 19 carries for the Jets, while Thomas Jones rushed for 121 yards and a touchdown on 26 carries in the win.

Team records:
Miami: 2-4 SU, 2-4 ATS
New York: 4-3 SU, 4-3 ATS

Miami most recently:
When playing in November are 6-4
When playing on turf are 4-6
After being outgained are 5-5
When playing within the division are 6-4

New York most recently:
When playing in November are 6-4
When playing on turf are 5-5
After outgaining opponent are 6-4
When playing within the division are 5-5

A few trends to consider:
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Miami's last 7 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Miami's last 5 games
Miami is 5-2 SU in its last 7 games on the road
Miami is 6-3 ATS in its last 9 games on the road
NY Jets are 9-2 SU in their last 11 games when playing at home against Miami
NY Jets are 9-2-1 ATS in their last 12 games when playing Miami
NY Jets are 17-6 SU in their last 23 games when playing Miami
NY Jets are 7-3 SU in their last 10 games at home

Next up:
Miami at New England, Sunday, November 8
NY Jets home to Jacksonville, Sunday, November 15

San Francisco 49ers vs. Indianapolis Colts

The San Francisco 49ers and the Indianapolis Colts will both be trying to pick up a win on Sunday when they battle at Lucas Oil Stadium.

Oddsmakers currently have the Colts listed as 13½-point favorites versus the 49ers, while the game's total is sitting at 45.

The 49ers lost to Houston 24-21 as a 3-point underdog in Week 7. The combined score went OVER the posted over/under total (44.5).

Alex Smith passed for 206 yards with three touchdowns and an interception for San Francisco, while Vernon Davis caught seven passes for 93 yards and three touchdowns.

The Colts defeated St. Louis 42-6 as a 14.5-point favorite in Week 7. The combined score went OVER the posted over/under total (45).

Peyton Manning passed for 235 yards with three touchdowns for Indianapolis, while Reggie Wayne caught seven passes for 83 yards and a touchdown in the win.

Current streak:
San Francisco has lost 2 straight games.
Indianapolis has won 6 straight games.

Team records:
San Francisco: 3-3 SU, 4-1-1 ATS
Indianapolis: 6-0 SU, 5-1 ATS

San Francisco most recently:
When playing in November are 4-6
When playing on turf are 3-7
After being outgained are 6-4
When playing outside the division are 3-7

Indianapolis most recently:
When playing in November are 8-2
When playing on turf are 9-1
After outgaining opponent are 9-1
When playing outside the division are 9-1

A few trends to consider:
San Francisco is 4-1-1 ATS in its last 6 games on the road
San Francisco is 4-1-1 ATS in its last 6 games
San Francisco is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games when playing Indianapolis
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of San Francisco's last 6 games on the road
Indianapolis is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games
Indianapolis is 5-0 ATS in its last 5 games
Indianapolis is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Indianapolis's last 6 games when playing San Francisco

Next up:
San Francisco home to Tennessee, Sunday, November 8
Indianapolis home to Houston, Sunday, November 8

Cleveland Browns vs. Chicago Bears

The Cleveland Browns and the Chicago Bears will both be gunning for a victory on Sunday when they meet at Soldier Field.

Oddsmakers currently have the Bears listed as 14-point favorites versus the Browns, while the game's total is sitting at 40.

The Browns lost to Green Bay 31-3 as a 9-point underdog in Week 7. The combined score fell UNDER the posted over/under total (41.5).

Derek Anderson passed for 99 yards with a interception for Cleveland and Jamal Lewis rushed for 47 yards on 5 carries.

The Bears lost to Cincinnati 45-10 as a 2-point favorite in Week 7. The combined score went OVER the posted over/under total (43).

Jay Cutler passed for 251 yards with a touchdown and three interceptions for Chicago, while Devin Hester caught eight passes for 101 yards and a TD.

Current streak:
Cleveland has lost 2 straight games.
Chicago has lost 2 straight games.

Team records:
Cleveland: 1-6 SU, 3-4 ATS
Chicago: 3-3 SU, 3-3 ATS

Cleveland most recently:
When playing in November are 4-6
When playing on grass are 0-10
After being outgained are 0-10
When playing outside the division are 2-8

Chicago most recently:
When playing in November are 5-5
When playing on grass are 6-4
After being outgained are 6-4
When playing outside the division are 5-5

A few trends to consider:
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Cleveland's last 5 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Cleveland's last 6 games
Cleveland is 2-5 ATS in its last 7 games on the road
Cleveland is 3-8 ATS in its last 11 games
Chicago is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Chicago's last 6 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 8 of Chicago's last 12 games at home
Chicago is 3-5-1 ATS in its last 9 games

Next up:
Cleveland home to Baltimore, Monday, November 16
Chicago home to Arizona, Sunday, November 8

Houston Texans vs. Buffalo Bills

The Houston Texans and the Buffalo Bills will both be trying to pick up a win on Sunday when they battle at Ralph Wilson Stadium.

Oddsmakers currently have the Texans listed as 3½-point favorites versus the Bills, while the game's total is sitting at 41½.

The Texans defeated San Francisco 24-21 as a 3-point favorite in Week 7. The combined score went OVER the posted over/under total (44.5).

Matt Schaub passed for 264 yards with a pair of touchdowns for Houston, while Owen Daniels caught seven passes for 123 yards with a touchdown in the win.

The Bills defeated Carolina 20-9 as a 7-point underdog in Week 7. The combined score fell UNDER the posted over/under total (37).

Ryan Fitzpatrick passed for 123 yards with a touchdown for Buffalo, while Lee Evans caught five passes for 75 yards with a touchdown in the win.

Current streak:
Houston has won 2 straight games.
Buffalo has won 2 straight games.

Team records:
Houston: 4-3 SU, 3-3-1 ATS
Buffalo: 3-4 SU, 4-3 ATS

Houston most recently:
When playing in November are 4-6
When playing on turf are 1-9
After outgaining opponent are 5-5
When playing outside the division are 6-4

Buffalo most recently:
When playing in November are 4-6
When playing on turf are 2-8
After being outgained are 4-6
When playing outside the division are 5-5

A few trends to consider:
Houston is 5-2 ATS in its last 7 games on the road
Houston is 9-4 SU in its last 13 games
Houston is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Houston's last 6 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Buffalo's last 6 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Buffalo's last 5 games
Buffalo is 5-12 SU in its last 17 games
Buffalo is 1-7 SU in its last 8 games at home

Next up:
Houston at Indianapolis, Sunday, November 8
Buffalo at Tennessee, Sunday, November 15

New York Giants vs. Philadelphia Eagles

The New York Giants and the Philadelphia Eagles will both be trying to pick up a win on Sunday when they battle at Lincoln Financial Field.

Oddsmakers currently have the Giants listed as 1½-point favorites versus the Eagles, while the game's total is sitting at 45.

The Giants lost to Arizona 24-17 as an 8-point favorite in Week 7. The combined score fell UNDER the posted over/under total (47).

Eli Manning passed for 243 yards with a touchdown and three interceptions for the Giants, while Brandon Jacobs rushed for 76 yards and a TD on 13 carries.

Donovan McNabb went 15-of-25 for 156 yards with a touchdown, as the Eagles downed the Redskins 27-17 in Week 7.

Philadelphia covered as 6.5-point road favorites, while the teams played OVER the 38.5-point total set by sportsbooks.

Current streak:
New York has lost 2 straight games.

Team records:
New York: 5-2 SU, 4-2-1 ATS
Philadelphia: 4-2 SU, 4-2 ATS

New York most recently:
When playing in November are 6-4
When playing on grass are 9-1
After outgaining opponent are 6-4
When playing within the division are 7-3

Philadelphia most recently:
When playing in November are 4-5-1
When playing on grass are 6-4
After being outgained are 7-2-1
When playing within the division are 5-5

A few trends to consider:
NY Giants are 17-3 ATS in their last 20 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of the NY Giants last 6 games when playing Philadelphia
NY Giants are 19-4 SU in their last 23 games on the road
NY Giants are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games when playing on the road against Philadelphia
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Philadelphia's last 7 games
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Philadelphia's last 7 games at home
Philadelphia is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games at home
Philadelphia is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games at home

Next up:
NY Giants home to San Diego, Sunday, November 8
Philadelphia home to Dallas, Sunday, November 8

Denver Broncos vs. Baltimore Ravens

The Denver Broncos and the Baltimore Ravens will both be gunning for a victory on Sunday when they meet at M&T Bank Stadium.

Oddsmakers currently have the Ravens listed as 3½-point favorites versus the Broncos, while the game's total is sitting at 42.

Kyle Orton was 20-of-29 for 229 yards with two touchdowns, as the Broncos dumped the Chargers 34-23 in Week 6.

Denver cashed as 4-point road underdogs, while the game played OVER the 43.5-point total listed by sportsbooks.

The Ravens lost to Minnesota 33-31 as a 3-point underdog in Week 6. The combined score went OVER the posted over/under total (45.5).

Joe Flacco passed for 385 yards with two touchdowns for Baltimore, while Ray Rice Rushed for 77 yards and two TDs on 10 carries and caught 10 passes for 117 yards.

Current streak:
Denver has won 6 straight games.
Baltimore has lost 3 straight games.

Team records:
Denver: 6-0 SU, 6-0 ATS
Baltimore: 3-3 SU, 4-2 ATS

Denver most recently:
When playing in November are 5-5
When playing on turf are 6-4
After outgaining opponent are 7-3
When playing outside the division are 7-3

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

A few trends to consider:
Denver is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games
Denver is 5-0 ATS in its last 5 games
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Denver's last 6 games
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Denver's last 6 games when playing Baltimore
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Baltimore's last 6 games at home
Baltimore is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games when playing Denver
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Baltimore's last 6 games when playing Denver
Baltimore is 15-5 ATS in its last 20 games

Next up:
Denver home to Pittsburgh, Monday, November 9
Baltimore at Cincinnati, Sunday, November 8

Oakland Raiders vs. San Diego Chargers

Divisional bragging rights will be on the line on Sunday when the Oakland Raiders and the San Diego Chargers meet at Qualcomm Stadium.

Oddsmakers currently have the Chargers listed as 17-point favorites versus the Raiders, while the game's total is sitting at 41½.

The Raiders lost to the Jets 0-0 as a 6-point underdog in Week 7. The combined score went OVER the posted over/under total (34).

Bruce Gradkowski passed for 97 yards with an interception for Oakland and Justin Fargas rushed for 67 yards on eight carries.

The Chargers defeated Kansas City 37-7 as a 5.5-point favorite in Week 7. The combined score caused this game to be a PUSH on the posted over/under total (44).

Philip Rivers passed for 268 yards with three touchdowns for San Diego, while Vincent Jackson caught five passes for 142 yards with a touchdown in the win.

Team records:
Oakland: 2-5 SU, 3-4 ATS
San Diego: 3-3 SU, 2-4 ATS

Oakland most recently:
When playing in November are 2-8
When playing on grass are 4-6
After being outgained are 3-7
When playing within the division are 3-7

San Diego most recently:
When playing in November are 5-5
When playing on grass are 6-4
After outgaining opponent are 6-4
When playing within the division are 8-2

A few trends to consider:
The total has gone UNDER in 7 of Oakland's last 9 games when playing on the road against San Diego
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Oakland's last 6 games
Oakland is 6-19 SU in its last 25 games on the road
Oakland is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games
San Diego is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing Oakland
San Diego is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Oakland
San Diego is 11-2 ATS in its last 13 games when playing Oakland
San Diego is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games when playing at home against Oakland

Next up:
Oakland home to Kansas City, Sunday, November 15
San Diego at NY Giants, Sunday, November 8

Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Tennessee Titans

Divisional bragging rights will be on the line on Sunday when the Jacksonville Jaguars and the Tennessee Titans meet at LP Field.

Oddsmakers currently have the Titans listed as 3-point favorites versus the Jaguars, while the game's total is sitting at 45.

The Jaguars defeated St. Louis 23-20 in overtime as a 9.5-point favorite in Week 6. The combined score went OVER the posted over/under total (42.5).

Maurice Jones-Drew rushed for 133 yards and three touchdowns on 33 carries for Jacksonville, while Mike Sims-Walker caught nine passes for 120 yards

The Titans lost to New England 59-0 as a 9-point underdog in Week 6. The combined score went OVER the posted over/under total (38.5).

Kerry Collins passed for negative-seven yards with an interception for Tennessee and Chris Johnson rushed for 128 yards on 17 carries.

Current streak:
Tennessee has lost 6 straight games.

Team records:
Jacksonville: 3-3 SU, 3-3 ATS
Tennessee: 0-6 SU, 1-5 ATS

Jacksonville most recently:
When playing in November are 5-5
When playing on grass are 4-6
After outgaining opponent are 3-7
When playing within the division are 4-6

Tennessee most recently:
When playing in November are 6-4
When playing on grass are 3-7
After being outgained are 5-5
When playing within the division are 5-5

A few trends to consider:
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Jacksonville's last 6 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Jacksonville's last 5 games
Jacksonville is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games on the road
Jacksonville is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games when playing Tennessee
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Tennessee's last 5 games
Tennessee is 7-3 ATS in its last 10 games when playing at home against Jacksonville
Tennessee is 7-3 SU in its last 10 games when playing at home against Jacksonville
Tennessee is 8-4 SU in its last 12 games at home

Next up:
Jacksonville home to Kansas City, Sunday, November 8
Tennessee at San Francisco, Sunday, November 8

Minnesota Vikings vs. Green Bay Packers

If familiarity breeds contempt, there should be animosity aplenty on Sunday when the Minnesota Vikings and the Green Bay Packers meet at Lambeau Field.

Oddsmakers currently have the Packers listed as 3-point favorites versus the Vikings, while the game's total is sitting at 47.

The Vikings lost to Pittsburgh 27-17 as a 6-point underdog in Week 7. The combined score fell UNDER the posted over/under total (46.5).

Brett Favre passed for 334 yards with an interception for Minnesota and Adrian Peterson rushed for 69 yards and a TD on 18 carries.

The Packers defeated Cleveland 31-3 as a 9-point favorite in Week 7. The combined score fell UNDER the posted over/under total (41.5).

Aaron Rodgers passed for 246 yards with three touchdowns for Green Bay, while Ryan Grant rushed for 148 yards and a TD on 27 carries.

Current streak:
Green Bay has won 2 straight games.

Team records:
Minnesota: 6-1 SU, 4-3 ATS
Green Bay: 4-2 SU, 4-2 ATS

Minnesota most recently:
When playing in November are 8-2
When playing on grass are 4-6
After outgaining opponent are 7-3
When playing within the division are 8-2

Green Bay most recently:
When playing in November are 5-5
When playing on grass are 5-5
After outgaining opponent are 5-5
When playing within the division are 7-3

A few trends to consider:
Minnesota is 6-1 SU in its last 7 games
Minnesota is 6-1 SU in its last 7 games on the road
Minnesota is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Minnesota's last 5 games
Green Bay is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games when playing Minnesota
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Green Bay's last 5 games when playing Minnesota
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Green Bay's last 5 games when playing at home against Minnesota
Green Bay is 12-4 SU in its last 16 games when playing at home against Minnesota

Next up:
Minnesota home to Detroit, Sunday, November 15
Green Bay at Tampa Bay, Sunday, November 8

Carolina Panthers vs. Arizona Cardinals

The Carolina Panthers and the Arizona Cardinals will both be trying to pick up a win on Sunday when they battle at University of Phoenix Stadium.

Oddsmakers currently have the Cardinals listed as 10½-point favorites versus the Panthers, while the game's total is sitting at 41½.

The Panthers lost to Buffalo 20-9 as a 7-point favorite in Week 7. The combined score fell UNDER the posted over/under total (37).

Jake Delhomme passed for 325 yards with three interceptions for Carolina and DeAngelo Williams rushed for 89 yards and a touchdown on 16 carries.

The Cardinals defeated the Giants 24-17 as an 8-point underdog in Week 7. The combined score fell UNDER the posted over/under total (47).

Kurt Warner passed for 231 yards with a touchdown and an interception for Arizona, while Beanie Wells rushed for 67 yards and a touchdown on 14 carries in the win.

Current streak:
Arizona has won 3 straight games.

Team records:
Carolina: 2-4 SU, 1-5 ATS
Arizona: 4-2 SU, 4-2 ATS

Carolina most recently:
When playing in November are 4-6
When playing on grass are 7-3
After outgaining opponent are 4-6
When playing outside the division are 5-5

Arizona most recently:
When playing in November are 5-5
When playing on grass are 6-4
After being outgained are 6-4
When playing outside the division are 6-4

A few trends to consider:
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Carolina's last 7 games on the road
Carolina is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games when playing Arizona
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Carolina's last 9 games when playing Arizona
Carolina is 2-5 SU in its last 7 games
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Arizona's last 6 games
Arizona is 9-2 ATS in its last 11 games
Arizona is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games
The total has gone OVER in 12 of Arizona's last 16 games at home

Next up:
Carolina at New Orleans, Sunday, November 8
Arizona at Chicago, Sunday, November 8

Denver (6-0 SU and ATS) at Baltimore (3-3, 4-2 ATS)

The surprising Broncos put their perfect record on the line when they make the trip to M&T Bank Stadium to face the Ravens, who have followed up 3-0 start with three straight defeats.

Denver had its bye last week after dropping San Diego 34-23 two Mondays ago as a 3½-point road underdog, remaining unbeaten SU and ATS this season. The Broncos’ defense has been tremendous all year, giving up a league-low 11 points per game, but the stop unit has been nearly perfect in the second half of games, yielding just 10 points after halftime all season, including just only three second-half points total in the past five games. That includes shutting out the Patriots and Cowboys after the half and allowing only a field goal in the win over the Chargers.

Baltimore also had last week off following its heartbreaking 33-31 loss at Minnesota on Oct. 18, missing a game-winning field goal as time expired, though the Ravens covered as a three-point ‘dog. Baltimore has dropped three in row (1-2 ATS) after going 3-0 SU and ATS in its first three games. The Ravens’ offense is averaging 393.2 ypg (fifth) and 28.2 ppg (also fifth), but their usually stout defense is yielding 332.7 ypg and 21.7 ppg, both 19th in the league.

Baltimore is 5-1 ATS (4-2 SU) in the last six meetings in this rivalry, though most recently, Denver won 13-3 as a 5½-point home favorite in October 2006. The home team has cashed in three of the last four contests.

The Broncos, who had been perennially poor at the betting window the past few years, are now riding ATS hot streaks of 6-0 after a SU win, 5-0 against the AFC, 6-1 after a bye, 6-2 on the road and 4-0 as an underdog, cashing as a pup each of the last three weeks. The Ravens, despite their recent woes, remain on ATS runs of 19-7 overall, 9-2 laying points, 4-1 after a SU loss, 6-2 after a spread-cover, 6-2 after the bye and 39-16-1 as a home chalk.

The under has hit in five of Denver’s six games this year and is on further rolls for the Broncos of 10-1 after a SU win, 8-1 after an ATS win and 9-4-1 with Denver a road pup. For Baltimore, the under is on streaks of 5-1 at home (all as a chalk) and 6-1 as a favorite, though the Ravens are also on “over” surges of 5-2 overall, 6-0-1 in November and 4-1 against winning teams.

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

ATS ADVANTAGE: UNDER

Cleveland (1-6, 3-4 ATS) at Chicago (3-3 SU and ATS)

The Bears, looking to bounce back from a humiliating loss to the Bengals, return to Soldier Field for the first time in four weeks when they take on the lowly Browns in a non-conference contest.

Chicago got plastered 45-10 at Cincinnati on Sunday as a one-point chalk for its second consecutive SU and ATS setback. Despite acquiring Pro Bowl QB Jay Cutler, the Bears are averaging just 312.2 ypg (21st) and 21.5 ppg (20th), primarily due to the league’s fourth-worst rushing attack (80.7 ypg). The Bears’ defense isn’t much better, allowing 329.8 ypg (16th) and 24 ppg (22nd).

Cleveland got drubbed 31-3 by Green Bay as a 9½-point home ‘dog last week, ending a three-game ATS surge. The Browns have scored 14 points or less five times this year, including three outings of six points or less, and they sit 31st in the 32-team league in total ypg (225.4) and 30th in scoring (10.3 ppg). Flailing QB Derek Anderson (2 TDs, 7 INTs, 2 lost fumbles, 40.6 rating) leads a passing game that is averaging just 128.3 ypg.

These teams have been preseason combatants each of the last six years, including two months ago, when host Chicago won 26-23 giving 2½ points, but they’ve played just two meaningful games this decade. Most recently in games that count, Cleveland won 20-10 as a three-point home favorite in October 2005.

The Bears are on ATS skids of 0-4 as a double-digit favorite, 1-4 in November and 2-5-1 as a non-division home chalk, but they are 3-1-1 ATS in their last five at Soldier Field and 11-4 ATS in their last 15 games following a SU loss. The Browns have nothing but negative ATS trends to speak of, including 3-9-1 overall, 2-5 on the road, 2-8-1 after a SU loss, 1-6-1 after a non-cover, 3-7-1 getting points and 1-5 catching more than 10 points.

Chicago is on “over” runs of 21-9 at home, 18-5 as a Soldier Field chalk and 5-1 with the Bears favored by more than 10 points. On the flip side, the under for Cleveland is on streaks of 19-9-1 overall, 4-1-1 on the highway, 4-1 after a SU loss and 10-4-1 after an ATS setback.

ATS ADVANTAGE: CHICAGO

Houston (4-3, 3-3-1 ATS) at Buffalo (3-4, 4-3 ATS)

The Bills and Texans both shoot for a third straight victory when they get together at Ralph Wilson Stadium.

Buffalo beat Carolina 20-9 Sunday as a seven-point road pup for its second consecutive win and cover, following a three-game SU and ATS slide in which the Bills totaled just 20 points. Backup QB Ryan Fitzpatrick, still subbing for Trent Edwards (concussion) has led both victories and will start again this week, but his numbers haven’t been great (21 of 47, 239 yards, 2 TDs, 1 INT). The key has been an opportunistic defense that forced four turnovers (three INTs, one fumble) against Carolina after picking off six two weeks ago against the Jets.

Houston darted out to a 21-0 lead against San Francisco, then gave away almost all of it before hanging on for a 24-21 home victory Sunday, pushing as a three-point favorite. The Texans’ offense is averaging 364.7 ypg and 23.9 ppg, both good for 10th in the league, with QB Matt Schaub leading the third-best passing attack at 285.6 ypg, trailing only the Colts and Patriots, respectively.

Buffalo is 3-1 SU (2-1-1 ATS) in four lifetime meetings in this rivalry, winning and covering the last two, including a 24-21 victory as a three-point road ‘dog in November 2006.

Despite the Bills’ recent upswing, they remain on negative ATS streaks of 1-7 at Ralph Wilson, 1-6-1 in November, 3-9 against winning teams, 1-5 after a SU win and 0-4 as a home chalk. The Texans have failed to cover in four in a row on turf and are 0-4-1 ATS in their last five following a SU win, but they carry positive pointspread streaks of 9-4-1 overall, 5-0 after a non-cover, 5-2 on the road and 7-3 inside the AFC.

The under for Buffalo is on several rolls, including 4-1 overall, 5-0 after a SU win, 5-1 at home and 5-2-1 against winning teams, and the under for Houston is on runs of 9-4 overall (3-1 last four), 5-1 on the highway, 7-2 against the AFC and 6-2 coming off a SU win.

ATS ADVANTAGE: UNDER

San Francisco (3-3, 4-1-1 ATS) at Indianapolis (6-0, 5-1 ATS)

The streaking Colts aim to remain unbeaten on the season when they play host to the 49ers at Lucas Oil Stadium.

Indianapolis pounded St. Louis 42-6 Sunday as a hefty 14-point road favorite, the team’s 15th consecutive regular-season victory and fifth-straight spread-cover. QB Peyton Manning is engineering the league’s No. 1 passing attack, racking up 310.8 ypg through the air, and the Colts are averaging 402.5 total ypg (fourth) and 29.8 ppg (second). Defensively, Indy is allowing just 291.7 ypg (ninth) and a stifling 12.8 ppg, which is second in the NFL, behind only Denver’s 11.0 ppg.

San Francisco rallied from a 21-0 deficit at Houston last week, but came up just short in a 24-21 setback, getting a push as a three-point ‘dog. Former No. 1 overall pick Alex Smith took over for starting QB Shaun Hill at halftime and threw three TDs to TE Vernon Davis to lead the charge. Coach Mike Singletary has decided to stick with Smith in the wake of the 49ers’ third loss in four games. In just 30 minutes of play, Smith went 15 of 22 for 206 yards, with one INT.

These two teams have met just twice this decade, with both going 1-1 SU and ATS and the road team rolling to victory each time. Most recently, Indy won 28-3 as a 16½-point favorite in October 2005.

The Colts are 3-7 ATS in their last 10 as a home favorite and 1-5 ATS in their last six laying more than 10 at home, but along with their current 5-0 ATS surge, they are on pointspread upturns of 4-0 laying points, 4-0 after a spread-cover and 8-3 against the NFC. The 49ers remain on positive ATS streaks of 4-1-2 overall, 4-0-1 as a road pup, 5-1-1 against winning teams and 5-1-1 after a SU loss, but they are on a 4-9 ATS dive as a ‘dog of more than 10 points, and they are in a 5-17 ATS funk in non-division roadies.

The under is 10-4 in Indianapolis’ last 14 November outings, but the over is on a 4-1 run with the Colts favored by more than 10 points, and the total has gone high in four of San Fran’s last five November starts and seven of its last 10 games following a pointspread defeat.

ATS ADVANTAGE: OVER

Miami (2-4 SU and ATS) at N.Y. Jets (4-3 SU and ATS)

Three weeks after squaring off at Land Shark Stadium, the Jets and Dolphins will collide again in a meeting of AFC East rivals at the Meadowlands.

New York blasted hapless Oakland 38-0 Sunday as a six-point road favorite to get its season back on track, rolling up an eye-popping 316 rushing yards while halting a three-game SU and ATS slide. With rookie QB Mark Sanchez still learning his way, the Jets’ defense and running game have been the key this year. New York is allowing just 14.9 ppg (fourth) and 297.6 ypg (10th), and the Jets lead the league with 184.9 ypg rushing.

Miami jumped out to a 24-3 second-quarter lead against New Orleans, then gave it all away and more in losing 46-34 as a six-point home pup Sunday. Despite the stunning collapse, the Dolphins continue to boast the league’s second-best rushing attack, churning out 170.3 ypg, and they are 11th in scoring (24.3 ppg), though they’re giving up a tick more at 25.3 ppg.

On Monday night football Oct. 12, Miami won a shootout 31-27 as a three-point home pup in a contest that featured 35 fourth-quarter points (21 from Miami). The Dolphins have won and cashed in the last two meetings, but New York has otherwise owned this rivalry lately, carrying ATS hot streaks of 20-6-2 overall and 7-2-2 at home. The underdog is 4-1-1 ATS in the last six meetings, as is the road team.

The Jets are 6-2 ATS in their last eight following a spread-cover and 7-3 in their last 10 after a SU win, but they are on negative ATS streaks of 5-13-1 against losing teams, 2-7 as a chalk, 1-4 laying points at home, 1-5 giving 3½ to 10 points and 1-4 in division play. The Dolphins, meanwhile, have covered in just two of their last seven starts and are on further ATS skids of 0-4 in November, 1-5 as a ‘dog and 1-6 as a road pup of 3½ to 10 points. But Miami is 6-1 ATS in its last seven division outings (4-0 ATS last four) and 5-2 ATS in its last seven as a road ‘dog.

The under for New York is on stretches of 4-1 after a SU win, 12-5 after a spread-cover and 18-8 with the Jets laying 3½ to 10 points at home. The over has hit in four of Miami’s last five games, but the under is on runs for the Dolphins of 8-1 in November, 6-1 on the highway and 5-0 with the squad a road pup.

ATS ADVANTAGE: UNDER

St. Louis (0-7, 2-5 ATS) at Detroit (1-5, 2-4 ATS)

Two of the worst teams over the past two seasons get together when the winless Rams travel to Ford Field to take on the Lions.

St. Louis got hammered by Indianapolis 42-6 last week as a 14-point home underdog for its 17th consecutive SU loss (6-11 ATS), dating back to its shocking 34-14 rout over Dallas as a nine-point home pup on Oct. 19, 2008. The Rams are dead last in scoring, at a meager 8.6 ppg, and 26th in total yards (277.0), while their defense is allowing 385.4 ypg (30th) and 30.1 ppg (29th).

Detroit, coming off its bye week, got blanked at Green Bay 26-0 two Sundays ago and hasn’t been any better than the Rams, winning just once since the second-to-last week of the 2007 season (1-22 SU, 9-14 ATS). The Lions average 293.2 ypg (25th) and just 17.2 ppg (23rd), while the defense is second-to-last in points allowed (31.3 ppg) and 26th in total yards allowed (370.8).

Lions rookie QB Matthew Stafford (knee), who missed the past two games, has practiced this week, but his status is still not certain for Sunday.

St. Louis is 2-1 SU and ATS in its last three meetings with Detroit, including a 41-34 home victory giving 5½ points in October 2006, the most recent contest.

The Rams are on a 9-4 ATS run against losing teams, but the rest of their pointspread streaks tumble downhill, including 1-4 overall, 1-5 in November and a pair of 24-50-1 plunges – following a SU loss and following an ATS setback. The Lions are on identical 3-9 ATS purges at Ford Field and in November, though they are 4-1 ATS in their last five following a non-cover and 4-1 ATS in their last five coming off the bye week.

St. Louis is on “over” streaks of 4-1 overall, 4-1 after a SU loss and 6-2-1 after a double-digit home setback, and the over for Detroit is on rolls of 19-8-1 overall, 6-0 in November and 7-1 against losing teams. However, the total has gone low in the Lions’ last five following the bye and four of their last five at Ford Field.

ATS ADVANTAGE: NONE

Seattle (2-4 SU and ATS) at Dallas (4-2, 3-3 ATS)

The Cowboys, looking to extend a modest two-game winning streak, remain at home for the second straight week when they play host to the inconsistent Seahawks.

Dallas topped Atlanta 37-21 Sunday giving 5½ points at the new Cowboys Stadium, ending a two-game ATS hiccup in the process. QB Tony Romo leads an offense that is racking up a whopping 419.3 ypg, second only to the Saints (427.3), passing for 266 ypg (ninth), and the Cowboys sport the league’s fourth-best running attack, at 153.3 ypg.

Seattle, which had a bye last week, followed a 41-0 blowout home win over Jacksonville with a 27-3 home loss to Arizona two Sundays ago as a three-point favorite. The Seahawks are in the top half of the league defensively, allowing 319.7 ypg (12th) and just 18.2 ppg (seventh), but their up-and-down offense is averaging just 12.3 ppg in the four losses and 34.5 ppg in the two wins.

Dallas has cashed in the last four clashes in this rivalry (2-2 SU), including a 34-9 beatdown last November at home as a hefty 11½-point chalk. That said, the underdog and the road team have both gone 4-1 ATS in the last five contests.

The Cowboys are 1-4 ATS in their last five games after a pointspread win, but from there, they are on pointspread rolls of 10-2 in November, 7-2 against the NFC and 6-2 at home, and they are also on a 9-2 ATS run as a non-division home favorite. The Seahawks are stuck in pointspread ruts of 1-4 overall, 1-4 on the highway, 0-4 as a road pup and 2-6-1 against winning teams, and they are on a 9-22 ATS dive in non-division road games.

The over for Dallas is on tears of 6-2 overall, 4-1 after a SU win, 19-7-2 after a spread-cover and 4-1 against NFC foes, and the over is on a 23-11 streak with Seattle a road pup. The under for Seattle is on runs of 10-4-1 overall, 6-0 in November, 7-2-1 in conference action and 7-3 against winning teams. Finally, in this rivalry, the total has gone low in five of the last six meetings.

ATS ADVANTAGE: DALLAS

N.Y. Giants (5-2, 4-3 ATS) at Philadelphia (4-2 SU and ATS)

The suddenly struggling Giants aim to get back on track with a trip to Lincoln Financial Field for an NFC East showdown with the Eagles.

New York went off as a healthy nine-point home chalk Sunday night against Arizona, then lost 24-17 for its second consecutive SU and ATS setback following a 5-0 start (4-1 ATS). The Giants still sport the NFL’s sixth-best attack in both scoring (27.9 ppg) and total yards (391.3 ypg), and their defense leads the league in allowing just 262 total ypg, though New York is a middling 16th in points allowed (20.4 ppg).

Philadelphia bounced back from a shocking loss at Oakland to beat Washington 27-17 Monday night as a nine-point road favorite, moving to 3-1 SU and ATS in its last four games. The Eagles are averaging 336.7 ypg, just 17th in the league, but they’re putting up points just the same, averaging 27.2 ppg (seventh). That stat is aided greatly by Philly’s plus-11 turnover margin, which is tops in the NFL.

The Eagles could be without star RB Brian Westbrook (concussion) this week.

These rivals met three times last season, with Philadelphia going 2-1 SU and ATS, including a 23-11 road victory as a four-point pup in the second round of the playoffs. New York has cashed on its last four trips to the Linc, the road team has also covered in four straight, and the underdog is on a 9-0 ATS tear.

The Giants are 1-4 ATS in their last five division starts, but they sport a bundle of positive ATS streaks, including 33-17-1 overall, 39-19-2 against the NFC, 16-5 against winning teams and 5-0 in November. In addition, New York is on road ATS sprees of 22-5 overall and 15-3 against teams with a winning home record.

The Eagles are also on several ATS upswings, including 10-4 overall, 5-1 at home, 4-1 in the division, 6-2 against NFC opponents and 5-2 versus winning teams, though they’ve cashed in just one of their last six home division tilts.

The over for Philadelphia is on runs of 6-1 overall, 6-0-1 at home, 5-0 against the NFC and 25-11-1 against winning teams. The over is also 4-1-1 in New York’s last six November starts, but the under is 8-3 for the Giants in their last 11 following a SU loss, and in this rivalry, the total has gone low in five of the last six clashes.

ATS ADVANTAGE: PHILADELPHIA

Oakland (2-5, 3-4 ATS) at San Diego (3-3, 2-4 ATS)

The Chargers, who figured to be a lock in the AFC West but now find themselves playing from behind, hook up with the Raiders for the second time this year when these longtime division rivals meet at Qualcomm Stadium.

San Diego pasted Kansas City 37-7 last week as a 5½-point road favorite to end a two-game SU and ATS skid. Scoring hasn’t been a problem this season for the Chargers, who are tied for eighth in the league at 26.8 ppg, and they field the fourth-best passing attack (281.3 ypg). But their running game behind LaDainian Tomlinson and Darren Sproles has been surprisingly abysmal, at just 70.5 ypg, the second-worst total in the NFL.

Oakland, coming off a stunning home upset of Philadelphia, quickly returned to form in a 38-0 blowout loss to the Jets as a six-point home underdog Sunday. QB JaMarcus Russell threw two INTs and lost a fumble before getting benched in the first half, and he now has two TD passes more than offset by 13 turnovers (8 INTs, five fumbles) The Raiders are 30th in the league with a minus-10 turnover margin.

Oakland nearly pulled off the upset against San Diego in Week 1, coming up short 24-20 but easily covering as a 10-point home ‘dog to end a 4-0 SU and ATS run by the Chargers in this rivalry. San Diego is 11-2 ATS in the last 13 clashes (5-1 ATS at home), and the favorite is on a 10-2 ATS roll.

The Chargers are on ATS dips of 2-5 overall (all against the AFC), 0-4 after a SU win, 3-8 as a chalk and 2-7 after a spread-cover, but they are 22-9-4 ATS in their last 35 AFC West contests and 13-6 ATS in their last 19 at Qualcomm. The Raiders are on a bundle of negative ATS streaks, including 1-4 overall (all as a pup), 4-9 as a double-digit road ‘dog and 21-43-1 following a pointspread loss. The surprising bright spot: Oakland is 8-2 ATS in its last 10 division road affairs.

San Diego is on several “over” runs, including 5-1-1 overall, 4-0 after a SU win, 5-1 after an ATS victory, 5-1-2 laying points and 5-1-1 against AFC opponents. On the flip side, Oakland is on “under” streaks of 5-0 in November, 4-1-1 in division play, 10-3-1 after a SU loss, 9-3-1 after an ATS setback and 7-3-1 against AFC foes. Also, in this rivalry, the under is 3-0-1 in the last four Qualcomm meetings.

ATS ADVANTAGE: SAN DIEGO

Jacksonville (3-3 SU and ATS) at Tennessee (0-6, 1-5 ATS)

The shockingly winless Titans, who went 13-3 last year, will make a quarterback change in hopes of gaining their first victory when they face the Jaguars at LP Field.

Tennessee is coming off a much-needed bye week after taking the beatdown of a lifetime in a 59-0 loss in the snow at New England getting 9½ points. The Titans are giving up a league-worst 33 ppg and are 31st in total yards allowed (405.7 ypg), and they’re putting up an average of just 14 ppg (27th). That, along with some prompting from owner Bud Adams, led coach Jeff Fisher to yank QB Kerry Collins as the starter and put Vince Young under center this week.

Jacksonville, which also had its bye last week, held off winless St. Louis 23-20 in overtime two weeks ago to notch its third win in four games (2-2 ATS) and bounce back from a 41-0 shellacking at Seattle. The Jags are averaging a respectable 355.3 ypg (11th), yet they are just 21st in scoring at 20 ppg. Their defense isn’t helping much, yielding 360.8 ypg (23rd) and 24.5 ppg (24th).

These two teams met four weeks ago, with Jacksonville rolling 37-17 as a three-point home underdog to slow a 4-1 SU and ATS run by Tennessee in this rivalry. The Titans are 7-3 ATS in the last 10 meetings in Nashville, and the underdog has cashed in five of the last six clashes between these two.

The Titans are on pointspread dives of 0-5 overall (all in the AFC), 0-5 in AFC South play, 0-5 laying points, 0-6 after a SU loss and 2-5 at LP Field, though they are 14-5-1 ATS in their last 20 as a home chalk of three points or less. The Jaguars are on ATS slides of 4-9 overall, 2-7 after a SU win, 2-5 following a non-cover and 3-8 against losing teams, but they are a robust 18-9-1 ATS in their last 28 starts as a road pup.

The over for Tennessee is on numerous surges, including 4-1 overall, 12-4-1 after a bye, 7-3 at home, 6-2 with the Titans a home chalk, 38-18-1 after a SU loss and 43-21-1 after an ATS defeat. The under has hit in five of Jacksonville’s last six roadies and six of the last seven with the Jags a road ‘dog, but the over for Jack Del Rio’s troops is on runs of 4-1 overall and 9-4-1 against losing teams.

Finally, the total has cleared the posted price in six of the last nine meetings in this rivalry, with last month’s contest sailing over the 42-point posted price.

ATS ADVANTAGE: TENNESSEE and OVER

Minnesota (6-1, 4-3 ATS) at Green Bay (4-2 SU and ATS)

Four weeks after the first Brett Favre grudge match, the Vikings and Packers get together again, this time at Lambeau Field for an NFC North showdown.

Minnesota suffered its first loss of the year last week, falling to Pittsburgh 27-17 after two costly fourth-quarter turnovers – a Brett Favre fumble and a tipped-ball INT – were returned for long TDs. The Vikes also fell short as six-point pups for their second straight ATS setback. That said, Minnesota is still third in the league in scoring, at 29.4 ppg, and though its defense is a middling 16th in yards allowed (330 ypg) and points allowed (21.1 ppg), the team’s plus-seven turnover margin rates fifth in the NFL.

Green Bay has won its last two games by a combined 57-3 total, pounding on underlings Detroit and Cleveland. Last Sunday, the Pack ripped the Browns 31-3 as a 9½-point road chalk in improving to 3-1 SU and ATS in its last four games. Green Bay has a plus-10 turnover margin, second only to Philadelphia, which has helped it chalk up 26.8 ppg (tied for eighth) and 376.3 ypg (eighth).

Minnesota held off Green Bay 30-23 as a 4½-point home chalk in a Monday nighter on Oct. 5, ending a four-game ATS run (3-1 SU) by the Packers in this rivalry. The Vikings are 7-2 ATS on their last nine trips to Lambeau, the road team is on an 11-4 ATS run and the underdog is 16-5 ATS in the last 21 clashes.

The Vikings sport positive ATS streaks of 5-1 after a SU loss and 4-1 on the road, but they also shoulder negative pointspread trends of 1-6 against winning teams, 3-7 as a pup and 3-12-2 catching three points or less. The Packers are 1-4 ATS in their last five following a spread-cover, but they also are on spread-covering runs of 8-2 in division action, 4-1 as a favorite and 7-3-1 in November.

The over has been the play for Minnesota, as it is on tears of 4-1 overall, 6-1 in November, 7-2 with the Vikings a road pup, 20-8-2 after an ATS loss and 33-16-3 after a SU defeat. Likewise, the over for Green Bay is on upswings of 21-9-1 overall, 15-6 with the Pack favored, 7-1 with the Packers laying three or less, 21-7-1 against the NFC and 11-5 at Lambeau.

Finally, the total has gone high in four of the last five overall in this rivalry, though the under is 4-1 in the last five meetings in Green Bay.

ATS ADVANTAGE: GREEN BAY and OVER

Carolina (2-4, 1-5 ATS) at Arizona (4-2 SU and ATS)

The defending NFC champion Cardinals look to push their winning streak to four games when they return home to University of Phoenix Stadium to face the struggling Panthers.

Arizona knocked off the Giants 24-17 as a heavy 7½-point underdog Sunday night, winning and covering for the third straight week. The Cardinals still field the NFL’s worst rushing attack, at just 60 ypg, but QB Kurt Warner has helped compensate for it by guiding the seventh-best passing game (269.5 ypg). Arizona also has the league’s seventh-stingiest scoring defense, yielding just 18.2 ppg.

Carolina had its modest two-game winning streak (1-1 ATS) snapped in a 20-9 loss to Buffalo as a seven-point home chalk. Coach John Fox is continuing to stick with beleaguered QB Jake Delhomme, who threw three INTs last week and now has 15 turnovers (13 INTs, two lost fumbles) against just four TDs for the season. That has the Panthers at a league-worst minus-14 turnover margin, with Carolina scoring just 15.7 ppg (25th).

These two teams met in the second round of the playoffs last January, with Arizona rolling 33-13 as a huge 10-point road ‘dog. That’s when Delhomme’s troubles really began, as he threw five INTs and lost a fumble in the blowout. The road team has cashed in the last four clashes between these two, and the underdog is on a 6-2 ATS run.

The Cardinals are on pointspread rolls of 9-2 overall, 4-0 against losing teams, 6-1 after both a SU win and after an ATS win, 10-4 as a favorite and 5-2 at home. Conversely, the Panthers are on ATS freefalls of 1-6 overall, 0-4 as a pup, 0-4 after a SU loss, 1-4 after a non-cover, 1-6 as a road pup and 2-7 in November.

The under has hit in four straight for Arizona and is 10-4 in Carolina’s last 14 November games. But the over for the Cards is on streaks of 12-4 at home, 6-2 in November, 19-7 after a SU win and 35-16 against losing teams, and the over for the Panthers is on stretches of 6-1 on the highway, 5-1 as an underdog and 10-3 against NFC opponents.

ATS ADVANTAGE: ARIZONA and OVER

No-Respect
By SportsPic

Broncos (6-0, 6-0 ATS) one of three undefeated teams in the league will attempt to keep the momentum moving forward when they head to Baltimore on Sunday to face struggling Ravens (3-3, 4-2 ATS). Broncos comfortably ahead in the AFC West after a 34-23 victory at San Diego are once again getting little respect opening +3.5 point road underdogs. No respect may be an under statement, Broncos enter this weeks battle a perfect 9-0 (7-2 ATS) last five years vs AFC North opponents including 4-0 SU & ATS on the highway. If that were not enough, consider Broncos are 8-2 SU & ATS playing with rest. Meanwhile, Ravens off a 33-31 loss to the Vikings before their bye week making it three straight losses are in desperation mode. Like Broncos the Ravens also have a little history on their side. Teams off a loss and a bye week are 5-2 (5-1-1 ATS) this season and we do note Ravens are 5-1 both SU & ATS following a week of rest including a 34-23 home victory over these same Broncos back in '02. One final Raven tid-bit, they're 7-2 SU & ATS since 2000 hosting the AFC West foes including a 2-0 SU & ATS mark with Ponies in town.

Tips and Trends

Minnesota Vikings at Green Bay Packers

Vikings: Brett Favre was with the Packers for 16 years and now he makes his first appearance at Lambeau Field against his former club. Favre completed 24-of-31 passes for 271 yards and three touchdowns when the Vikings beat the Packers 30-23 in Week 4. The 40-year-old Favre has thrown for 1,681 yards with a 12-to-three touchdown-to-interception ratio. Pittsburgh halted Minnesota’s six-game winning streak last Sunday. The Vikings outgained the Steelers, 386-259, holding the ball for nearly 37 minutes in the 27-17 loss. The Vikings had 11 penalties and two turnovers in the red zone that went for Pittsburgh touchdowns. The Vikings are 5-1 against the spread following a straight-up loss. However, teams that just played the Steelers are 1-5 against the spread the following week. The Vikings lead the league in sacks with 24. They sacked Aaron Rodgers eight times in their earlier victory. Minnesota will be missing cornerback Antoine Winfield.

The Vikings are 7-2 ATS in their last nine meetings at Green Bay.
The Under has cashed 4 of the last five times the teams have met at Lambeau Field.

Key Injuries - Cornerback Antoine Winfield (foot) is out.
Wide receiver Bernard Berrian (hamstring) is probable.

PROJECTED SCORE: 22

Packers (-3, O/U 47): This is one of Green Bay’s biggest regular-season games because of Brett Favre returning and the weather should be good with the forecast calling for partly cloudy skies with a high of 48 degrees. The Packers have won two in a row following their bye. They beat Detroit and Cleveland by a combined margin of 57-3. Those victories helped move the Packers into No. 3 in total defense, giving up 284.8 yards per game, and fifth in scoring defense allowing 16 points per contest. Green Bay outgained Minnesota, 424-334, during its Week 4 loss. Aaron Rodgers ranks second in the league with a 110.8 quarterback rating. He’s passed for 1,702 yards and 11 touchdowns with two interceptions. The Packers have allowed a league-worst 25 sacks. Green Bay has won 12 of the last 15 times it has hosted Minnesota. Green Bay has covered eight of its last 10 NFC North games.

Green Bay is 21-9-1 to the over in its last 31 games.
The Over has cashed in 11 of Green Bay’s last 16 home games.

Kedy Injuries - Offensive left tackle Chad Clifton (ankle) is questionable.
Guard Jason Spitz (back) is doubtful.

PROJECTED SCORE: 25 (OVER - Total of the Day)