Robert Ferringo
Take Long Beach State over Syracuse
There are too many factors to list as to why this will be a good play, but I’ll be brief. First, this is the end of finals week for the Orange. That means the team will be a little drained and it means that the crowd won’t be as fired up because the student have all gone home for Christmas. The noon start will also zap a little life from Syracuse, which has played shockingly bad in the first half against lesser teams this year. LBSU has already played good games at BYU and at Wisconsin, two tough places to play. They’ll be getting around 15 points or so, and the Orange have been a poor double-digit favorite over the last, say, 20 years. Take the points here as the Orange get another scare.
SPORTS ADVISORS
Butler (8-0, 4-2-1 ATS) at (21) Ohio State (5-0, 3-1 ATS)
A battle of unbeatens is on tap at Value City Arena in Columbus, Ohio, where the 21st-ranked Buckeyes host perennial mid-major power Butler.
Ohio Sate has been idle since Saturday’s 67-62 upset victory over then-No. 7 Notre Dame at the Hall of Fame Classic in Indianapolis, its 11th consecutive win going back to last year, which is the longest winning streak in the nation. The Buckeyes, who covered as a 4½-point underdog against the Irish, have pulled off consecutive upsets of Top 25 teams, also defeating No. 21 Miami (Fla.) 73-68 as an eight-point road underdog in the ACC/Big Ten Challenge on Dec. 2.
Butler pounded Bradley 87-75 as a one-point road underdog on Wednesday to keep its perfect record intact. However, after giving up 59 points or fewer in their first six wins, the Bulldogs have surrendered 75 and 71 in their last two.
These schools met last December, and Butler cruised to a 65-46 victory as a six-point home favorite. In 2005, the Buckeyes won 79-69 in overtime, but the Bulldogs cashed as a 14½-point road underdog.
Butler is on several positive pointspread streaks, including 8-3-1 overall, 35-17-1 in non-conference play, 5-2 on the road, 5-2-1 versus the Big Ten, 4-1 on Saturdays, 6-2-1 against winning teams and 7-3-1 after a SU victory. Likewise, Ohio State sports several ATS runs, including 8-1 overall (3-0 last three), 7-1 at home and 11-1 in non-league play.
For Butler, the over is on stretches of 7-3 overall and 6-2 in non-conference play, but the under is 15-7 in the Bulldogs’ last 22 on the road. The Buckeyes have topped the total in five of their last seven against Horizon League foes, but the under is 36-16-1 in its last 53 games on Saturday.
ATS ADVANTAGE: NONE
(17) Memphis (5-1, 4-2 ATS) at (19) Georgetown (6-1, 2-2 ATS)
The day’s only clash between Top 25 teams takes place at the Verizon Center in Washington, D.C., with Georgetown serving as host against the Tigers.
Memphis hasn’t been on the court since Dec. 2, when it blasted Marist College 100-61, covering as a 26-point home favorite. That victory came on the heels of the Tigers’ only loss this year, a 63-58 neutral-site setback to Xavier as a six-point chalk. Aside from that loss to Xavier, Memphis has scored at least 80 points in every game so far, and the Tigers put up 82.5 points per game (44.6 percent shooting)
Georgetown has rebounded from its only loss of the season – 90-78 to Tennessee as a 3½-point underdog in a preseason tournament in Florida – with three straight victories. Most recently, the Hoyas crushed Savannah State 100-38 in a non-lined home game on Dec. 8. Georgetown is putting up 76.6 ppg while shooting an impressive 53.1 percent from the field.
Last year, Georgetown went to Memphis and got cracked 85-71, falling well short as a four-point road underdog. The home team is 3-0 SU and ATS in three head-to-head meetings since 1998.
Memphis carries ATS runs of 7-3 overall (all in non-conference play), 4-1 against the Big East and 4-0 on Saturday, but John Calipari’s club is 1-6 ATS in its last seven after a 20-plus-point victory and 3-9 ATS in its last 12 after a spread-cover. The Hoyas are on ATS dips of 5-12 on Saturday, 1-4 after a victory and 1-6 after a 20-plus-point win.
The Tigers are on over stretches of 5-1 on the road, 7-0 versus the Big East and 4-1 on Saturdays, and the over is also 5-1 in Georgetown’s last six Saturday contests. However, the under is 48-21 in the Hoyas’ last 69 home games.
ATS ADVANTAGE: NONE
Indiana (5-4, 3-3 ATS) at Kentucky (6-3, 1-2-1 ATS)
Two storied programs that are in the midst of rebuilding continue their annual rivalry, with Kentucky welcoming Indiana to Rupp Arena.
The Hoosiers snapped a two-game slide with Wednesday’s 66-56 rout of TCU as a one-point home underdog, improving to 4-1 (3-0 ATS) at home. However, Tom Crean’s squad is just 1-3 in road or neutral-site venues (0-3 ATS). Also, Indiana is averaging just 62.1 ppg on 41.6 percent shooting (29 percent on 3-pointers).
Kentucky quickly rebounded from last Saturday’s 73-67 home loss to Miami (Fla.) as a 3½-point home favorite with Sunday’s 88-65 beatdown for Mississippi Valley State in a non-lined home game. Unlike the Hoosiers, the Wildcats are strong offensively, putting up 78.8 ppg on 50.3 percent shooting (31.1 percent on 3-pointers).
Indiana pounded the Wildcats 70-51 as a six-point home favorite last year after Kentucky prevailed 59-54 as a five-point home favorite in 2006. The host has won the last four meetings and eight of the last 10, with the SU winner covering the spread in each of those contests. During this 10-game stretch, Kentucky is 7-3 SU and ATS (4-0 SU and ATS last four at home), and the favorite is 9-1 ATS.
The Hoosiers are mired in ATS funks of 2-6 against the SEC, 0-5 on the road and 1-6 after a SU win, while Kentucky is 1-4-1 ATS in its last six overall and 1-4 ATS in its last five versus Big Ten foes. But on Saturdays, Indiana is on a 5-2 ATS run and the Wildcats are on a 6-2 ATS surge.
For Indiana, the under is on runs of 4-0 overall, 9-2 against the SEC and 6-1 against winning teams, while Kentucky sports “under” streaks of 5-2 at home, 4-0 against the Big Ten and 6-0 versus winning teams. Finally, the under is 6-1 in the last seven meetings in this rivalry (3-0 last three years).
ATS ADVANTAGE: KENTUCKY and UNDER
Utah (5-3, 5-2 ATS) at (5) Oklahoma (9-0, 4-2 ATS)
Player-of-the-Year candidate Blake Griffin leads undefeated Oklahoma onto the court at the Noble Center in this non-conference clash with Utah.
After a pair of close calls – an 87-82 overtime win over Purdue in New York and a 73-72 home win over USC – the Sooners reestablished their dominance in blowout wins over Tulsa (69-44 as a seven-point road underdog) and Maine (78-52 in a non-lined home game) in their last two. Oklahoma is 6-0 at the Noble Center this year, outscoring opponents by an average of 18 ppg (82-64), but it is 0-2 ATS in lined home games.
Griffin had 22 points and 10 rebounds in 26 minutes against Maine, and he’s averaging 24.4 points and 15.6 rebounds per game.
The Utes jumped out to a 5-1 start before dropping its last two – a 72-68 loss at Idaho State as a 12-point road favorite last Saturday and a 72-69 setback to California as a 6½-point home chalk Tuesday. Utah shot a combined 44 percent from the field in the two defeats and got outrebounded in both games after having the rebounding edge in five of its first six outings. The SU winner is 16-0-1 ATS in the Utes’ last 17 games.
This is a rematch of a 2005 NCAA Tournament meeting, which Utah won 67-58 as a 4½-point underdog.
The Utes are 5-2 ATS in their last seven games overall (all non-conference) and 4-1 ATS in their last five following a SU defeat, but they’re 1-4-1 ATS in their last six on Saturday. Meanwhile, Oklahoma has cashed in 10 of its last 14 non-league contests.
The over is on runs of 5-2-1 for the Sooners overall, 10-3-1 for the Sooners in non-conference play, 4-1 for the Sooners at home, 9-3 for Utah overall, 6-2 for Utah in non-conference action and 5-1 for Utah on the road.
ATS ADVANTAGE: OKLAHOMA and OVER
DePaul (4-3, 1-4 ATS) vs. (16) UCLA (5-2, 3-4 ATS) (at Anaheim, Calif.)
DePaul takes a three-game losing streak to the West Coast where it meets UCLA in the annual John Wooden Classic at the Pond in Anaheim.
The Blue Demons have gone 0-for-December thus far, losing road games at California (77-67) and Northwestern (63-36), then coming home Wednesday and falling to lowly Morgan State 79-75 in a non-lined game. Since covering the spread in their first lined contest against Illinois-Chicago, DePaul is 0-4 ATS. The Demons are averaging 66.6 ppg, but making just 37.8 percent of their shots.
UCLA bounced back from a tough four-point loss at Texas with Sunday’s 85-67 victory over nearby Cal State Northridge. However, the Bruins fell short as a 22-point home favorite, snapping a 3-0 ATS run. Ben Howland’s team is shooting an even 50 percent from the floor against Division I opponents, averaging 73.3 ppg.
These teams have not faced each other since 2001, when the Bruins went to DePaul and won 94-88 as a two-point road chalk.
Although it has failed to cover in four straight games, DePaul is 7-3 ATS in its last 10 on Saturdays. UCLA is 35-17 ATS in its last 52 games after a non-cover, but otherwise the Bruins are in pointspread ruts of 2-5 at home, 2-5 versus the Big East and 2-5 on Saturdays.
The under is 8-2 in UCLA’s last 10 against the Big East and 5-2 in DePaul’s last seven on the road. However, the over is on runs of 4-1 for the Blue Demons overall, 8-3 for the Blue Demons in non-conference games, 4-0 for UCLA overall, 7-2 for UCLA at home and 5-1 for UCLA on Saturday.
ATS ADVANTAGE: OVER
(10) Xavier (8-0, 3-4 ATS) at Cincinnati (6-1, 2-1 ATS)
Off to its best start in school history, Xavier now guns for its second straight victory over cross-town rival Cincinnati, which is unbeaten on its home court this year.
The Musketeers followed up close home wins (and non-covers) over Miami (Ohio) and Auburn by hammering Ohio 78-56 as a 15-point home favorite on Wednesday. Xavier is 3-0 on the highway (2-1 ATS), despite outscoring that trio of opponents by an average of just three points per game (67-64).
Cincinnati returned from a two-game preseason tournament in Las Vegas and held off UAB last Saturday, winning 87-80 as a three-point home favorite. The Bearcats are 5-0 at home, but UAB was the first Division I foe that Cincinnati has hosted.
Xavier struggled to put away the Bearcats last year, winning 64-59 but never threatening to cover as an 18½-point home favorite. Also, in their last trip to Cincinnati’s home court exactly two years ago, the Musketeers lost 67-57 as a 4½-point road chalk. The home team has won the last five meetings, but the visitor has cashed in six of the last eight. Also, the underdog is on an 8-0 ATS run in this rivalry.
These rivals are very similar statistically, with the Musketeers averaging 71.5 ppg (45.2 percent shooting) and allowing 60.2 ppg (35.7 percent), while Cincinnati puts up 73.2 ppg (45.3 percent) and gives up 59.3 ppg (36.8 percent).
Xavier is 2-8 ATS in its last 10 games on Saturday and 2-6 ATS in its last eight versus the Big East. On the flip side, Cincinnati is on pointspread stretches of 4-1 overall, 8-1 in non-conference action, 5-1 against the Atlantic 10 and 5-2 on Saturdays, but prior to the win over UAB, the Bearcats had failed to cover in four straight home games.
The over is on stretches of 11-5 for the Musketeers in non-conference play, 7-3 for the Bearcats overall, 5-2 for the Bearcats versus the A-10 and 5-0 for the Bearcats on Saturdays. However, the under is 6-1 in the last seven head-to-head clashes between these rivals.
ATS ADVANTAGE: CINCINNATI
NBA
Orlando (17-6, 12-10-1 ATS) at Utah (15-9, 13-11 ATS)
The Magic continue their five-game Western Conference road trip when they visit Salt Lake City for the only time this season for a meeting with the Jazz.
Three days after a buzzer-beating victory at Portland, Orlando was on the wrong end of a last-second loss Friday night in Phoenix, falling 113-112 but covering as a two-point road underdog. That defeat ended the Magic’s four-game winning streak, but they’re still 8-2 SU in their last 10 games and 7-2 ATS in their last nine. Also, Orlando is 4-2 (5-1 ATS) on the road during this run, and for the season, Stan Van Gundy’s squad is 8-3 on the highway (7-3-1 ATS).
Utah is coming off Thursday’s 97-88 rout of Portland as a three-point home favorite, the team’s second straight win and cover. Going back to last month, the Jazz are on a 6-3 SU and ATS run, going 4-2 SU and ATS at home. The SU winner is 17-2 ATS in Utah’s last 19 games (8-0 last eight at home).
The Jazz swept Orlando last year, winning 113-94 as a four-point road underdog and 119-115, falling short as a seven-point home chalk. The ‘dog is 3-1 SU and 4-0 ATS the last two years when these teams have met. Also, the Magic are 8-1-1 ATS in the last 10 meetings overall and 5-0-1 ATS in their last six trips to Salt Lake.
In addition to its current ATS runs of 7-2 overall and 5-1 on the road, Orlando is on pointspread upticks of 6-2 against the Western Conference, 27-13-2 against the Northwest Division, 36-17-1 on Saturdays and 4-1 when playing on back-to-back nights (3-1 this year). Meanwhile, the Jazz are on ATS streaks of 47-21-2 at home (8-5 this year), 26-11-1 against teams with a winning record and 4-0 when playing on one day of rest, but Utah is just 2-6 ATS in its last eight against the Eastern Conference and 8-20-2 ATS in its last 30 versus the Southeast Division.
For the Magic, the under is on runs of 16-7 on the road, 9-4-1 against the Northwest Division and 7-2 against winning teams. For Utah, the under is on stretches of 6-1 overall, 4-1 at home and 4-0 against the Eastern Conference. Lastly, the under is 3-1 in the last four series meetings.
ATS ADVANTAGE: ORLANDO and UNDER
THE GOLD SHEET
NBA KEY RELEASES
DENVER by 21 over Golden State
Cleveland 103 - ATLANTA 92—Atlanta certainly not looking for re-run of first meeting at the “Q ,”when Hawks were left standing at the starting gate after scoring just 11 in 1st Q and 30 in 1st half of eventual 110-96 defeat. LeBron (scored 24) hardly had to play in 4th Q that night. Return of Josh Smith to lineup could help Atlanta cause, but keep in mind that surging Cavs have won and covered last 8 thru Dec. 8 and are 5-0 as road chalk thru Dec. 9. 08-CLE -11' 110-96 (197); 07-CLE -5 98-94 (185), ATL -2' 90-81 (188), Cle +4 100-95 (187)
Detroit 100 - CHARLOTTE 99—Let’s see if Charlotte fares a bit better in
rematch than it did when getting popped by 18 at Auburn Hills back on Nov. 3. Pistons hit 50% from floor that night and dominated backboards by 49-35 count. Bobcats, however, beginning to show signs of absorbing Larry Brown’s style, driving to the basket and posting up more often while shooting outside jumpers a bit less. Recent benefactor has been Emeka Okafor, whose numbers have increased as he becomes more involved in offense. 08-Det -3' 101-83 (180); 07-DET -11' 104-85 (192), Det -10 103-100 (OT-187), DET -11' 113-87 (189)
PHILADELPHIA 101 - Washington 92—We’re not likely to see much
improvement from Washington until Gilbert Arenas returns to lineup around New Year’s. In his absence, Wizard backcourt has struggled, so much so that HC Eddie Jordan was (fairly or unfairly) relieved of duties in late November. But replacement Ed Tapscott not faring much better, as DeShawn Stevenson (33% FGs) and Dee Brown (36% from floor) continue to launch brick after brick from floor. 07-WA -6' 116-101 (184), PHI -2 85-84 (196), PHI +1' 101-96 (190), WA -2 109-93 (194)
New Jersey 107 - CHICAGO 103—New Jersey continuing to prove a pleasant surprise, covering 9 of last 12 thru Dec. 9. Moreover, frisky Nets unexpectedly flourishing on the road, winning 7 of first 10 SU away. Good balance (all starters scored DDs in Dec. 5 romp past T-wolves) and deep bench allowing HC Frank to substitute in waves as he extracts maximum effort from troops. Which means New Jersey should have no trouble accommodating Chicago’s uptempo preference. 07-NJ -2 112-103 (OT-187), NJ +3' 110-102 (OT-189), CHI -6' 112-96 (200)
MILWAUKEE 101 - Indiana 93—Milwaukee seeking to turn around recent
series fortunes after losing last 3 vs. Central rival Indiana last season. Bucks not faring badly in early going as Bradley Center chalk, covering 5 of first 6 in role, as team has begun to embrace HC Scott Skiles’ emphasis on defensive end. Note Indiana no wins or covers last 3 on road thru Dec. 9. 07-MIL -5 104- 92 (209), IND -6 128-106 (216), Ind -1 105-101 (221), IND -9' 105-97 (217)
DALLAS 104 - Oklahoma City 94—Although Ok City’s losing ways recently cost HC P.J. Carlesimo his job, Thunder has been more competitive past few weeks, dropping just 1 of last 8 spread decisions thru Dec. 7. That’s perhaps due to new HC Scott Brooks “going small” with lineup, with Kevin Durant and Jeff Green each moved “up” to SF & PF, respectively, rookie Russell Westbrook now at PG, with Damien Wilkins & Chris Wilcox completing new-look starting quintet that’s helping Ok City improve scoring by 10 ppg since lineup revamp. 07-Dal -9 90-70 (195),
DAL -15 111-96 (203), DAL -18 99-83 (204), OKLA +10' 99-95 (200)
UTAH 102 - Orlando 94—Utah’s fortunes figure to improve with frontliner
Matt Harpring (scored 14 in first extended action of season Dec. 5 vs. Toronto) contributing again after ankle and back problems, star G Deron Williams rounding into form after nagging ankle and hip flexor ailments, and F Carlos Boozer due back soon from quad injury. In meantime, 3rd-year F Paul Millsap really beginning to assert himself, and Ohio State rookie 7-footer Kosta Koufos making worthwhile contributions on offensive end. Meanwhile, Orlando rookie G Courtney Lee (WKU), suddenly becoming a factor on attack. 07-Utah +4 113-94 (208), UTAH -7 119-115 (212)
DENVER 122 - Golden St. 101—It’s payback time for Denver after
getting spanked by 10 at Oakland Nov. 5. Remember, however, that was right after the big A.I. for Chauncey Billups trade, and Nuggets were minus both for that game (Iverson traded, but Billups had yet to arrive for that early-season meeting). Nuggets are 13-4 SU (thru Dec. 9) since the Billups trade, while Warriors on debilitating 9-game SU losing streak thru Dec. 7. “Totals” alert —Warriors “over” 12-4 last 16 thru Dec. 7. 08-GS -3 111-101 (207); 07-Den +4' 124-120 (228), Gs +4 105-95 (228), DEN -7' 119-112 (240), Den +4' 114-105 (237)
SACRAMENTO 104 - New York 100—Situation might be reaching critical
stage for Sacto HC Reggie Theus, on the hot seat as Kings’ SU losing streak grew to 8 thru Dec. 8. Perhaps recent return of high-scoring G Kevin Martin and workmanlike F Francisco Garcia to Sacto lineup will help forge turnaround...but maybe not. Yet we’re not sure N.Y. (only 3-6 vs. line away thru Dec. 8) a much better alternative, with Stephon Marbury still a potential distraction and Mike D’Antoni’s roster and lineup combos continuing to evolve. 07-SAC -3 123-118 (2OT-199), Sac +3' 107-97 (191)
Houston 98 - LA CLIPPERS 88—Houston has already beaten L.A. twice,
although Rockets couldn’t quite cover 11½-point spread in 103-96 win at Toyota Center Dec. 3. Rockets won that recent meeting minus Tracy McGrady, who might still be on sidelines for this matchup. McGrady or not, note that Houston scoring more in recent weeks (91.5 ppg first 10 games, 101.7 next 10 thru Dec. 7). And note that Rockets had won and covered 4 straight vs. Clips prior to most-recent meeting. 08-Hou -6 92-83 (181), ADD 12/3 RESULT; 07-Hou -6 88-71 (188), Hou -9 105-79 (183), HOU -14 93-75 (185)
THE GOLD SHEET
COLLEGE HOOPS
Tennessee 72 - TEMPLE 62—Fran Dunphy mixing and matching expertly (as usual) with Temple, as early injuries to frontliners Allen & Olmos have forced Owls to go “small” much of first month. Now, Temple close to full strength, but unfortunately must hook potent Tennessee bunch that’s still stinging from recent Old Spice tourney loss to Gonzaga. Vols have plenty of size in 6-9 W. Chism & 6-10 B. Williams to cause problems in paint, 6-7 Tyler Smith a matchup nightmare, and heady juco G Maze lending much-needed stability to Bruce Pearl’s helter-skelter style. 07-TENN -17 80-63 CABLE TV—ESPN
OHIO ST. 55 - Butler 53—Revenge is on OSU’s mind after losing by 19 vs.
more-experienced Butler at Hinkle Fieldhouse year ago. And Thad Matta undoubtedly thrilled with progress of Buckeyes after recent wins over Miami-Fla. & Notre Dame, with 6-7 soph Evan Turner (16.6 ppg) emerging as legit go-to threat. But underestimate well-schooled Bulldogs at your own peril. Bulldogs rebuilding on the fly, with frosh Gs Mack & Hayward displaying maturity beyond years, swingman Veasley still a stopper supreme, and 6-7 soph F Howard remaining a tricky matchup. 07-BUT -6 65-46
SYRACUSE over Long Beach St. by 14 to 17—07-DNP CABLE TV—ESPNU
DELAWARE over Ohio by 1 to 3—07-OHIO -13' 78-59
GEORGE WASHINGTON over Harvard by 11 to 14—07-DNP
Va. Commonwealth 68 - RICHMOND 61—Richmond looking to atone for 20-point loss at crosstown rival VCU last season. And Spiders getting lots of production in early going from Gs Gonzalvez (17.5 ppg) & Anderson (16.5 ppg). But absence of multi-dimensional 6-9 Geriot (knee) robs HC Mooney of a unique dimension (a big man who could pass and shoot) to help UR’s Princeton-like offense. Meanwhile, emergence of soph G Rodriguez (scored 20 in recent win over W&M) giving Rams necessary backcourt complement to A-A candidate Eric Maynor (23.9 ppg, 53% from floor!), and VCU athleticism rates edge. 07- VCU -14 65-45 CABLE TV—ESPNU
GEORGETOWN 73 - Memphis 66—With Memphis mentor John Calipari switching to his 3rd PG in 6-8 true frosh Wesley Witherspoon, will endorse geeked-up G’Town eager to atone for 14-pt. setback at hostile FedEx Forum LY. Hoyas hellacious defense (led nation in FG % allowed LY; 36% TY) should disrupt Tigers unsettled backcourt, while GT’s dynamic G duo of Sapp & Summers make up for subpar 6 of 19 FG shooting in ‘07 meeting. Game features two of the nation’s premier newcomers in Hoyas' 6-10 F Greg Monroe and UM’s 6-6 G Tyreke Evans. 07-MEM -5 85-71 TV—CBS
KANSAS over Mass. by 20 to 23—(at Kansas City, MO) 07-DNP TV—ESPN
MIAMI-OHIO 71 - Valparaiso 50—One of Miami-O’s most-bitter defeats a year ago was double-OT “Bracket Buster” loss at Valpo. But with Crusader HC Homer Drew still looking to fill gaps caused by graduation of key offensive components Huff & Lloyd, Valpo (only one starter, F Igbavboa, scoring DDs) susceptible to payback beating as it continues to labor on attack end. Vet RedHawks should be happy to oblige, with sr. weapons 6-5 Bramos (18.3 ppg) & 6-2 Hayes (15.9 ppg) giving Charlie Coles’ bunch a chance to extend margin. 07-VAL +1 99-94 (2OT)
Florida St. over GEORGIA ST. by 6 to 8—07-FSU -20' 78-48
KENTUCKY over Indiana by 18 to 22—07-IND -7' 70-51 TV—CBS
OREGON over San Diego by 3 to 5—(at Portland, OR) 07-DNP
MICHIGAN over Eastern Michigan by 19 to 22—07-DNP
OKLAHOMA over Utah by 5 to 7—07-DNP CABLE TV—ESPN2
NEW MEXICO over Mississippi by 4 to 6—07-MISS -9 85-77
Saint Mary’s over San Diego St. by 3 to 5—(at Anaheim, CA) 07-Stm -3' 69-64 (neut.) CABLE TV—WGN
Pacific over PEPPERDINE by 5 to 7—07-Pac -8' 84-76 (neut.), Pep +13' 83-65
WYOMING over Northern Iowa by 3 to 5—(at Casper, WY) 07-DNP
West Virginia over DUQUESNE by 6 to 8—07-WVA -14 92-68
UCLA over DePaul by 14 to 17—DePaul’s chances significantly compromised if key interior threat 6-10 C Koshwal still on shelf with foot injury that kept him out of Blue Demons’ recent ugly loss (when team shot 24% from floor) at Northwestern. (at Anaheim, CA) 07-DNP CABLE TV—WGN
PURDUE over Indiana St. by 23 to 27—07-PUR -13 71-60
EVANSVILLE over Western Kentucky by 1 to 2—07-DNP
MISSISSIPPI ST. over South Alabama by 8 to 11—07-USA -2 71-67
WISCONSIN over Wis.-Green Bay by 12 to 15—07-WIS -18' 70-52
ALABAMA over Texas A&M by 4 to 6—07-TAM -12 76-63
CINCINNATI over Xavier 1 to 2—07-XAV -19 64-59 CABLE TV—ESPN2
Nebraska over OREGON ST. by 12 to 15—07-DNP
BOISE ST. 69 - San Francisco 66—WCC sources have alerted us to keep an eye on improved USF squad that has responded positively to new HC Rex Walters in early going. Frosh G Vaughn & juco F Wallace have added to Don firepower quotient that already included holdover F Lowhorn (21.2 ppg) and long-range bomber G Quezada. Boise’s positive start due mostly to soft early slate at friendly Taco Bell Arena, but Broncos still in adjustment phase following graduation of key frontline cogs Larry & Nelson. 07-Bsu +3 91-81
UC STA BARBARA over Loyola Marymt by 11 to 14—07-Ucsb -10' 63-56
BYU 80 - Portland 61—Portland a pleasant surprise in early going, with addition of quicksilver juco PG Campbell (5.6 apg) igniting Pilot attack. But not sure UP can deal with bigger BYU, especially with 6-11 jr. Miles proving a more than adequate replacement for graduated C Plaisted. 07-Byu -12 78-54
Pointwise Basketball
NBA Selections
Key Releases
3--Utah over Orlando 97-81
Best of the Rest
12/13--Cleveland, OK City
NCAA Key Releases
1--Michigan over Eastern Michigan 81-50
4--Ohio State over Butler 71-60
Best of the Rest
12/13--Kansas, Pepperdine, West Virginia, W. Kentucky, San Francisco, BYU
Marc Lawrence's Playbook
NBA
Saturday, December 13
UTAH over Orlando by 13
Aah… our old stand-by. We’ve fallen so in love with this play we’re thinking of applying for a patent on it. In fact, knowing the vultures in this business that prey on other people’s hard work and pass it off as their own, it’s something we should seriously look into. Simply put, Utah uses its locale to its advantage like no other team in professional sports. When visiting teams arrive in Salt Lake City after playing the night before they simply run out of gas. That’s documented by the Jazz’ 95-50-2 ATS mark in these games since 1990 when they’re not forced to lay double-digits. With Orlando a not-so-magical 5-12 SU and ATS as road dogs after visiting Phoenix, we’ll once again call on our old reliable theory here tonight. We can hear the music!
COLLEGE BASKETBALL
Saturday, December 13
KENTUCKY over Indiana by 28
How far have the Hoosiers plummeted, you ask? How about dressing up as home dog to an IVY LEAGUE team this year! New head coach Tom Crean knew he was inheriting a bare cupboard when he stepped in to help salve the after effects of the Kelvin Sampson fi asco. With all 5 starters gone from last year’s team and Crean implementing a new playbook, those in the know are aware it’s going to be a long, cold winter in Bloomington.To make matters worse, they must pay amends for a 70-51 loss they laid on the Wildcats last season. With one season under their belt behind 2nd year coach Billy Gillispie, look for the favorite in this series to ratchet up to 10-0-1 ATS. Yes, life is good today at the old Kentucky home.
WISCONSIN over Wisc-Green Bay by 3
The Phoenix look to make a statement that they are to be taken seriously this season when they invade the Kohl Center in Madison Saturday evening. Last year’s 15-15 effort was a good one by Tod Kowalczyk’s squad; were it not for a 70-52 loss on this court they would have ended the season with a winning record. They return all 5 starters knowing they are 13-5-2 ATS when seeking revenge in non-division frays, including 7-0 ATS when taking 15 or more points. In a game that is much bigger to the little brother, look for the Badgers to dip to 1-7 ATS when hosting avenging non-division foes here tonight. GB – from ashes to cashes.
CINCINNATI over Xavier by 7
This inner-city rivalry has been like a ping-pong match, going back and forth the last fi ve years. Last season the Musketeers edged the Bearcats, 64-59, as 18.5-point favorites. Hence, it’s no surprise to learn the underdog in this series has barked 6 years in a row. Cincinnati’s success at the Shoemaker Center is well documented. They are especially accomplished here when taking points, going 12-6-1 ATS since 1990, including 7-1 ATS when seeking revenge. While UC is down a notch or two from past editions (read: Bob Huggins’ squads), they are led by Deonta Vaughn, the Big East’s 6th leading scorer last season. In Xavier’s fi rst true road game this season and with Duke waiting on deck, we’ll gladly grab any points the linesmaker tosses our way.If Cincy’s takin’, so are we.
Jimmy Boyd
1 Unit on Evansville -1.5
6-1 Evansville with all 5 starters returning would be a larger favorite in this spot if it were about any other team than Evansville . This team made great strides in the MO Valley last season and is now ready to do some serious competing. Evansville is a perfect 6-0 at home this season and 3-1 in home lined games. It has been a money play to grab the Purple Aces in the favorite role as they are 14-3 ATS as a favorite over the last 3 seasons. The Hilltoppers are 0-4 ATS in the last 4 meetings in this matchup and Evansville is 4-0 ATS in its last 4 vs. the Sun Belt. Lay the number.
JIM FEIST
NEW YORK KNICKS at SACRAMENTO KINGS
Take: NEW YORK KNICKS
Reason: NY has had a good week, at 2-1 SU/3-0 ATS. They are rested for this game after a big win, as Al Harrington scored a season-high 39 points, Tim Thomas contributed, and New York rallied to beat the Nets 121-109. Coach Mike D'Antoni said the plan is for G Nate Robinson (strained groin) to practice Friday and play Saturday at Sacramento. David Lee finished with 10 points and only one rebound, ending his streak of consecutive double-doubles at 10. Ignore the big upset the Kings had over the Lakers. This team was 0-8 SU, 2-6 ATS before that. Sacramento is getting outscored by 7.6 ppg -- second worst in the league ahead only of Oklahoma City. The Knicks are rested, while the Kings have to play the rematch with the Lakers Friday night, on the road. Play the NY Knicks.
James Patrick
Saint Mary’s vs. San Diego State
Our Saturday selection is in NCAA College Basketball action as we recommend #551 Saint Mary’s Gaels as they tangle with the Aztecs of San Diego State in game one action of a Doubleheader on WGN from Anaheim, CA. The Gaels return (4) starters and have two (25) win seasons and a pair of NCAA Tournament appearances in the past four seasons. Head Coach Randy Bennett has put together a Top Forty Program and we love the way they play.
Great Lakes Sports
Nebraska at Oregon State
Play:Nebraska Cornhuskers
The Nebraska Cornhuskers are a perfect 4-0 ATS following a straight up loss, and they are a very solid 7-2 ATS in their last nine games vs a team with a winning percentage of below .400. The Nebraska Cornhuskers is also a very nice 10-4 ATS overall in the last 14 games while the Oregon State Beavers is a horrible 1-4 ATS in their last five Saturday Games. We look for the Nebraska Cornhuskers to grab the road ATS Win & Cover tonight.
Dave Cokin
Western Kentucky / Evansville
Play: Western Kentucky +1
The Hiltoppers started a little slowly, which had to be expected as they lost two major components from last year's outstanding squad. But Western Kentucky has picked it up nicely over their last four outings as they round into form for another run at the Sun Belt title. Evansville is a big early season surprise, but with so many people back from last season, they had a nice early edge over less experienced opposition. But the Purple Aces are not all that talented and as the campaign progresses, they are likely to regress. I see the wrong team favored here and I'm backing Western Kentucky to notch the road win.
Dennis Hill
Tennessee vs. Temple
Play:Tennessee -6
Temple lacks the scoring punch to stay with Tennessee. On defense too, the Vols have it all over Temple. Lay the points on the road, and take Tennessee to win this game by at least 10 points, and it maybe by even more.
Jimmy The Moose
Buffalo Sabres at New Jersey Devils
Prediction: Under
Both teams played on Friday night with the Sabres playing the over and the Devils surprisingly scoring 8 goals. In Buffalo's last 15 games played with 0 day rest between action the under is a profitable 9-4-2. New Jersey has played the under in 4 of their last 5 games. The under is also 4-1 in their last 5 vs. Eastern Conference opponents. The under is 7-0 in Buffalo's last 7 trips to New Jersey. The under is 18-6-2 in the last 26 meeting overall between the clubs. Play the under.
Big Al McMordie
Depaul vs. UCLA
Play: UCLA -16.5
At 7 pm, our complimentary selection is on the UCLA Bruins minus the points over DePaul, as we will fade a Blue Demon squad that comes into this game off three straight losses, and four consecutive pointspread defeats. In its last game, DePaul inexplicably lost at home to Morgan State, 79-75, and before that was blown out 63-36 by Northwestern! DePaul's only pointspread cover this season was back on November 22nd, at Illinois-Chicago. In that game, the Blue Demons were a 2 point underdog, and upset the Flames 67-63. UCLA rebounded off its 68-64 loss at Texas with an 18-point win over Cal-State Northridge, but failed to cover the 21-point spread. Still, UCLA is 13-5 ATS its last 18 off a pointspread loss, and 50-30 ATS off a double-digit home win. Lay the points with Ben Howland's Bruins.
Sean Higgs
Long Beach State vs. Syracuse
Play: Syracuse -17
A huge public favorite today, but Long Beach State is playing a game that is being held at 9am on their body clocks. LB St does not have atheletes to hang with this tough Syracuse bunch. FREE MONEY, its colored ORANGE TODAY!