SUNDAY GAMEDAY NEWS AND NOTES

New York Jets vs. San Francisco 49ers

Oddsmakers currently have the Jets listed as 4-point favorites versus the 49ers, while the game's total is sitting at 44½.

The Jets lost to Denver 34-17 as an 8-point favorite last week. The combined score went OVER the posted over/under total (47.5).

Thomas Jones rushed for 138 yards and two touchdowns on 22 carries for Denver and Brett Favre passed for 247 yards with an interception.

The 49ers upset Buffalo 10-3 as a 7-point underdog last week. The combined score fell UNDER the posted over/under total (42).

Shaun Hill passed for 161 yards with a touchdown for San Francisco, while Frank Gore rushed for 66 yards on 24 carries in the win.

Team records:
New York: 8-4 SU, 7-5 ATS
San Francisco: 4-8 SU, 5-7 ATS

New York most recently:
When playing in December are 6-4
When playing on grass are 6-4
After being outgained are 5-5
When playing outside the division are 6-4

San Francisco most recently:
When playing in December are 4-6
When playing on grass are 4-6
After being outgained are 2-8
When playing outside the division are 4-6

A few trends to consider:
The total has gone OVER in 5 of the NY Jets last 6 games
NY Jets are 5-1 SU in their last 6 games
NY Jets are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games
NY Jets are 7-2 ATS in their last 9 games on the road
San Francisco is 5-1 SU in their last 6 games when playing NY Jets
The total has gone OVER in 4 of San Francisco's last 5 games
The total has gone OVER in 4 of San Francisco's last 5 games at home
San Francisco is 4-2 ATS in their last 6 games when playing NY Jets

Next up:
NY Jets home to Buffalo, Sunday, December 14
San Francisco at Miami, Sunday, December 14

New England Patriots vs. Seattle Seahawks

Oddsmakers currently have the Patriots listed as 5½-point favorites versus the Seahawks, while the game's total is sitting at 43.

The Patriots lost to Pittsburgh 33-10 as a 1-point favorite last week. The combined score went OVER the posted over/under total (39).

Matt Cassel threw for 169 yards with two interceptions and two lost fumbles for New England and Sammy Morris rushed for 45 yards and a TD on 10 carries.

The Seahawks were crushed 34-9 by the Cowboys last time out, as 12.5-point underdogs. The combined 43 points fell UNDER the posted total of 47.5.

John Carlson had six receptions for 105 yards in the loss.

Current streak:
Seattle has lost 5 straight games.

Team records:
New England: 7-5 SU, 6-6 ATS
Seattle: 2-10 SU, 4-7-1 ATS

New England most recently:
When playing in December are 9-1
When playing on turf are 6-4
After being outgained are 7-3
When playing outside the division are 6-4

Seattle most recently:
When playing in December are 5-5
When playing on turf are 2-8
After being outgained are 2-8
When playing outside the division are 1-9

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

Next up:
New England at Oakland, Sunday, December 14
Seattle at St. Louis, Sunday, December 14

St. Louis Rams vs. Arizona Cardinals

Oddsmakers currently have the Cardinals listed as 14-point favorites versus the Rams, while the game's total is sitting at 48½.

The Rams lost to Miami 16-12 as a 9-point underdog last week. The combined score fell UNDER the posted over/under total (44).

Stephen Jackson rushed for 94 yards on 21 carries for St. Louis and Marc Bulger passed for 149 yards with three interceptions.

The Cardinals were pounded 48-20 by the Eagles last time out, as 3-point underdogs. The 68 points sailed OVER the posted total of 49.

Kurt Warner completed 21-of-39 for 235 yards with three touchdowns and three interceptions in the loss.

Current streak:
St. Louis has lost 6 straight games.
Arizona has lost 2 straight games.

Team records:
St. Louis: 2-10 SU, 4-8 ATS
Arizona: 7-5 SU, 7-5 ATS

St. Louis most recently:
When playing in December are 4-6
When playing on grass are 4-6
After being outgained are 1-9
When playing within the division are 1-9

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

A few trends to consider:
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of St. Louis's last 6 games
The total has gone UNDER in 16 of St. Louis's last 24 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 4 of St. Louis's last 6 games when playing Arizona
St. Louis is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games when playing on the road against Arizona
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Arizona's last 5 games at home
Arizona is 7-1 SU in its last 8 games at home
Arizona is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games when playing St. Louis
The total has gone OVER in 7 of Arizona's last 9 games

Next up:
St. Louis home to Seattle, Sunday, December 14
Arizona home to Minnesota, Sunday, December 14

Dallas Cowboys vs. Pittsburgh Steelers

Oddsmakers currently have the Steelers listed as 3-point favorites versus the Cowboys, while the game's total is sitting at 38½.

Tony Romo threw for 331 yards and three touchdowns to lead the Cowboys to a 34-9 win over the Seahawks in Week 13. The Cowboys covered the 12.5-point spread, while the 43 points fell UNDER the posted total of 47.5.

Jason Witten caught nine passes for 115 yards and a TD.

The Steelers defeated New England 33-10 as a 1-point underdog last week. The combined score went OVER the posted over/under total (39).

Ben Roethlisberger passed for 179 yards with two touchdowns and an interception for Pittsburgh, while Hines Ward caught five passes for 37 yards with a touchdown.

Current streak:
Dallas has won 3 straight games.
Pittsburgh has won 3 straight games.

Team records:
Dallas: 8-4 SU, 6-6 ATS
Pittsburgh: 9-3 SU, 6-6 ATS

Dallas most recently:
When playing in December are 5-5
When playing on grass are 8-2
After outgaining opponent are 6-4
When playing outside the division are 8-2

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

A few trends to consider:
Dallas is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games
Dallas is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games
Dallas is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing Pittsburgh
Dallas is 13-5 SU in its last 18 games on the road
Pittsburgh is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Pittsburgh's last 8 games at home
Pittsburgh is 14-5 SU in its last 19 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 11 of Pittsburgh's last 16 games

Next up:
Dallas home to NY Giants, Sunday, December 14
Pittsburgh at Baltimore, Sunday, December 14

Washington Redskins vs. Baltimore Ravens

Oddsmakers currently have the Ravens listed as 5½-point favorites versus the Redskins, while the game's total is sitting at 35½.

The Redskins lost to the Giants 23-7 as a 3.5-point underdog last week. The combined score fell UNDER the posted over/under total (41).

Jason Campbell passed for 232 yards with an interception for Washington and Chris Cooley caught six passes for 71 yards.

The Ravens defeated Cincinnati 34-3 as a 7-point favorite last week. The combined score went OVER the posted over/under total (36).

Mark Clayton caught five passes for 164 yards and a touchdown and he also threw for 32-yard touchdown pass for Baltimore, while Joe Flacco passed for 280 yards with two touchdown passes in the win.

Current streak:
Baltimore has won 2 straight games.

Team records:
Washington: 7-5 SU, 5-6-1 ATS
Baltimore: 8-4 SU, 9-3 ATS

Washington most recently:
When playing in December are 5-5
When playing on turf are 6-4
After being outgained are 6-4
When playing outside the division are 7-3

Baltimore most recently:
When playing in December are 6-4
When playing on turf are 6-4
After outgaining opponent are 5-5
When playing outside the division are 4-6

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

Next up:
Washington at Cincinnati, Sunday, December 14
Baltimore home to Pittsburgh, Sunday, December 14

Early NFL Tip Sheet
By Judd Hall

Cincinnati Bengals at Indianapolis Colts

Most sportsbooks have listed the Colts as 13½-point home favorites with a total coming in at 41½. A win for Indianapolis here will guarantee the seventh straight winning season for them and 14th since relocating in 1984. Bettors can back the Bengals on the money line at plus-550 (risk $100 to win $550).

Tony Dungy’s squad enters this matchup fresh off of an ugly 10-6 win versus the Browns as a five-point road favorite. Peyton Manning connected on just 15 of 21 passes for 125 yards with two interceptions. This is just the second time this year that Manning was held without a passing score.

While Indy’s offense struggled, its defense was ready and will to win this game. The Colts’ defensive unit held Cleveland to just 193 total yards. Robert Mathis led the way with two sacks and returned a fumble by Derek Anderson 37 yards for the games lone touchdown.

The Bengals will be looking to find their offense after getting eviscerated by Baltimore, 34-3, as seven-point home ‘dogs last Sunday. Cincinnati had just six first downs and converted two out of 15 third downs against the Ravens in Week 13.

Ryan Fitzpatrick found himself on the run most of the time against Baltimore’s defense, getting sacked three times. Yet he did complete 12 of 31 passes for 124 yards. Fitzpatrick was also the Bengals’ top rusher with 29 yards on the ground last Sunday. It shouldn’t surprise anyone that they’re ranked 31st in the league in rushing now, averaging 78.1 yards per game.

Cincy is 0-6 straight up and 2-4 against the spread away from Paul Brown Stadium this season. The two times they did cover the number, it was against NFC East powers New York and Dallas. Indianapolis is 3-2 SU at Lucas Oil Stadium, but just 1-4 ATS this year.

Despite their noticeable shortcomings, the Bengals have fared well against Indy in the regular season, going 2-2 SU and 1-2-1 ATS. The ‘under’ is 3-1 in those matches as well.

The ‘over’ is 4-2 for Cincinnati in its last six contests this season.

Jacksonville Jaguars at Chicago Bears

The betting shops have installed Chicago as a 6½-point home “chalk” with a total of 40. Bettors will be able to take the Jags to win outright at plus-250 (risk $100 to win $250). This is a game that both teams desperately need to win; Jacksonville must win to keep itself alive in the AFC playoff race, while the Bears can keep pace with the Vikes in the NFC North.

If the Jaguars are going to make a decent playoff run, they must get a more consistent performance out of David Garrard. Jacksonville’s signal caller completed 71 percent of his passes against the Texans for 287 yards, but is lucky to have walked out of there with just one interception and a fumble. It was the third straight game that Garrard had coughed up the ball in as many matches.

These franchises have split the last four regular season meetings, but the Jags are 3-1 ATS in that time. The ‘over’ is 3-1 during those games as well.

Jacksonville is 2-6 SU and ATS in its past eight tilts this year with the ‘under’ going 4-3-1. The Bears are 4-4 SU in their last eight matches with the ‘under’ hitting in five of those tilts.

Chicago hasn’t liked playing against the AFC South, as evidenced by its 2-5 SU and ATS record since 2003.

Houston Texans at Green Bay Packers

Las Vegas Sports Consultants has listed the Packers as six-point home favorites with a total holding steady at 47. Both squads boast 5-7 records SU, but Green Bay still has a legitimate shot at winning the NFC North. Houston, on the other hand, must win out to have a shot at making the postseason as a wildcard in the AFC.

The Texans are just 1-5 SU and 3-3 ATS when playing away from Reliant Stadium this season. Houston is coming off of a 30-17 victory over the Jaguars as a three-point home favorite on Dec. 1. The combined 47 points just skated ‘under’ the closing number of 48.

Green Bay has dropped four of its last five fixtures SU, but covered three times. The Packers dropped their most recent match to Carolina as three-point home faves, 35-31. Aaron Rodgers had a solid outing with 298 passing yards and three touchdowns. Unfortunately, he did kill the Pack’s chances with an interception at the 1:09 mark in the fourth quarter.

The Packers have watched the ‘over’ go 4-2 at Lambeau Field this season and 3-1 in their last four.

Houston has seen ‘under’ hit in its past two contests, while the ‘over’ is 5-1 in road scuffles in 2008.

Cleveland Browns at Tennessee Titans

The good folks at LVSC have made the Titans heavy 14-point home favorites with a total saying low at 37. Gamblers can take Cleveland to pull off the big upset for a plus-550 payout (risk $100 to win $550).

Tennessee bounced back nicely after its first loss of the year with a 47-10 drubbing of the Lions on Thanksgiving Day as an 11-point road “chalk.” The Titans lit up Detroit for 456 yards, while holding them to just 154 yards never giving up a third down conversion (0 for 11).

The Browns are a comedy of errors right now. They already lost Brady Quinn to a broken finger for the season. Now they’ll be without Derek Anderson, who went down with a knee injury in Cleveland’s 10-6 loss to the Colts as a five-point home pup. Now they'll send former Hurricane hurler Ken Dorsey out to the wolves.

Jeff Fisher’s Titans have dominated at home this year, posting a 5-1 mark SU and 4-2 ATS. The ‘over’ has gone 4-2 at LP Field as well.

Romeo Crennel is definitely on thin ice, but his team plays well on the road this season given that they’re 3-2 SU and 4-1 ATS.

You’d think home field advantage would be big, especially in a mismatch as the one we have this Sunday. Yet the road team is 5-3 SU and 6-2 ATS in the last eight regular season showdowns between these old AFC Central rivals.

vegasinsider.com

Afternoon Six-Pack
By Brian Edwards

Gamblers have a six-pack of games going at four o’clock Eastern, so let’s take a quick look at each contest.

**Cowboys at Steelers**

--Most books are listing Pittsburgh (9-3 straight up, 6-6 against the spread) as a three-point favorite (minus 105 at some spots) with the total in the 38-39 range. The Cowboys are plus-135 on the money line (risk $100 to win $135).

--Dallas (8-4 SU, 6-6 ATS) has won three in a row both SU and ATS, including last Thursday’s 34-9 home win over Seattle on Thanksgiving Day. The Cowboys easily took the cash as 11 ½-point favorites, while the 43 combined points stayed ‘under’ the 46-point total.

--Mike Tomlin’s team has won four of its six home games, but the Steelers are just 2-4 ATS at Heinz Field. Meanwhile, Wade Phillips’ club is 3-3 both SU and ATS on the road.

--Dallas quarterback Tony Romo is back to 100 percent after missing three games with a fractured pinkie finger. The Cowboys are unbeaten since his return. For the season, Romo has completed 64 percent of his throws for 2,559 yards with a 21/8 touchdown-interception ratio.

--Pittsburgh QB Ben Roethlisberger has also been dealing with injuries, most notably a separated right shoulder. Other than the second half of a win at Washington, he has played through the pain. His play hasn’t always been characteristic, as Roethlisberger has a mediocre 13/12 TD-INT ratio.

--Dallas owns a 26-9 record with Romo under center, while the Steelers are 47-19 in Roethlisberger’s 66 career starts.

--Dallas running back Marion Barber (toe) is “questionable” and will be a game-time decision. Barber has 870 rushing yards and seven touchdowns this season. With Felix Jones already on injured reserve, rookie Tashard Choice will carry the rushing load if Barber can’t play.

--The ‘over’ is 7-5 overall for the Cowboys, 3-3 in their road games. Pittsburgh has seen the ‘over’ go 7-5 overall, 4-2 in its home outings.

**Dolphins at Bills**

--This game will be played in Toronto instead of Orchard Park, as Buffalo owner Ralph Wilson makes an attempt to extend the Bills’ fan base into nearby Canada.

--Most books are listing the Bills as one-point favorites with a total of 42.

--Buffalo (6-6 SU, 5-7 ATS) has lost five of its last six games both SU and ATS after starting the year 5-1. The Bills went down at home last week as 6 ½-point favorites, losing 10-3 to San Francisco. They produced only three points despite four separate trips into the red zone.

--Miami (7-5 SU, 5-7 ATS) has won five of its last six games, but the Dolphins have dropped four in a row ATS. They are off a 16-12 non-covering victory at St. Louis as seven-point favorites.

--It is unclear if Buffalo QB Trent Edwards (10/10 TD-INT ratio) will be able to play after he suffered a groin injury last week. If Edwards can’t go, J.P. Losman will get the starting nod. Losman completed 11-of-17 passes for 93 yards in the second half of last week’s loss to the Niners.

--The ‘under’ is 7-5 overall for the ‘Fins, but the ‘over’ is 3-2 in their road games.

--Buffalo is 7-1-1 ATS in its last nine games against the Dolphins. The ‘under’ has cashed in four of the last five head-to-head meetings between these bitter AFC East rivals.

**Jets at 49ers**

--Most spots have installed New York (8-4 SU, 7-5 ATS) as a four-point favorite with a total of 44½. The 49ers are plus-170 on the money line (risk $100 to win $170).

--San Francisco (4-8 SU, 5-7 ATS) has won two of its last three games and has covered the spread in three of its last four outings. The 49ers went into Buffalo and won 10-3 as 6 ½-point ‘dogs last week. Shaun Hill threw for 161 yards, one TD and no interceptions in cold, rainy weather conditions.

--Hill has an 8/3 TD-INT ratio in 2008. He is about as unorthodox a QB as you’ll see in the NFL these days, but he usually gets the job done whether it’s pretty or not.

--New York (8-4 SU, 7-5 ATS) saw its five-game winning streak ended last week in a 34-17 loss to Denver as a 7½-point favorite. Thomas Jones ran for 138 yards and two touchdowns on just 16 carries. Brett Favre threw for 247 yards but didn’t throw a TD and was picked off once.

--Favre has connected on 68.7 percent of his passes for 2,708 yards and a 20/14 TD-INT ratio. His presence is felt beyond the stats, though, as he has provided the Jets with a swagger they previously lacked.

--Jones has rushed for 1,088 yards and 11 TDs this year. The UVA product is averaging 4.7 yards per carry. For the 49ers, workhorse RB Frank Gore has rushed for 926 yards and six TDs. Gore is averaging 4.3 YPC.

--These teams have met six times since 1986. The 49ers have won five of those six games both SU and ATS.

--The ‘over’ is on a 5-0-1 run in Jets’ games. They have seen the ‘over’ go 7-4-1 overall, 3-2-1 in their road assignments.

--The ‘over’ is 7-4-1 overall for the 49ers, 4-2 in their home games. They are 2-4 both SU and ATS at Candlestick Park. Both home covers came as favorites, but San Francisco is 0-3 both SU and ATS in three previous home underdog spots.

**Rams at Cardinals**

--Most books are listing Arizona (7-5 SU, 7-5 ATS) as a 14-point favorite with a total of 48½. The Rams are an attractive plus-550 on the money line (risk $100 to win $550).

--After winning its first two games under Jim Haslett, St. Louis (2-10 SU, 4-8 ATS) has lost six in a row. The Rams are 2-4 ATS during that span.

--After missing three straight games, St. Louis RB Steven Jackson returned to action last week and produced 94 yards on 21 carries in a 16-12 loss to the Dolphins. He is expected to start this week.

--The Cardinals are 4-1 SU and 3-2 ATS at home this season. They have seen the ‘over’ go 5-0 in their home outings.

--St. Louis is 1-5 SU and 2-4 ATS on the road.

--When a team doesn’t get quality play at the QB position, it’s nearly impossible to be successful. That has certainly been the case for the Rams this year. Marc Bulger has a 7/11 TD-INT ratio and back-up Trent Green has no TD passes and six interceptions.

--Ken Whisenhunt’s squad is getting stellar play at QB from veteran Kurt Warner, who has completed 68.4 percent of his passes for 3,741 yards. Warner has a 24/11 TD-INT ratio. He has the best tandem of wideouts in the NFL in Larry Fitzgerald and Anquan Boldin. Fitzgerald has 77 receptions for 1,075 yards and eight TDs, while Boldin has 78 catches for 942 yards and 11 TDs.

--Arizona has won three of the last four head-to-head meetings between these NFC West rivals, including a 34-13 win at St. Louis as a three-point favorite four weeks ago.

**Chiefs at Broncos**

--Most betting shops are listing Denver (7-5 SU, 4-7-1 ATS) as a nine-point favorite with a total of 49. The Chiefs are plus-300 on the money line (risk $100 to win $300).

--Kansas City (2-10 SU, 6-6 ATS) snapped a seven-game losing streak by knocking off Oakland 20-13 last week as a three-point road underdog.

--When these teams met earlier this season, Kansas City captured a 33-19 win as a 9 ½-point home underdog. Larry Johnson ran for 198 yards and a pair of touchdowns.

--Although the Chiefs have lost five of their six road games, they are 4-2 ATS on the road.

--Kansas City is 4-2 ATS when catching nine points or more this season (regardless of venue).

--Denver’s perennial Pro-Bowl cornerback Champ Bailey (groin) is “questionable” and will be a game-time decision. Bailey has missed five straight games.

--Denver has been terrible at home, especially for our purposes. The Broncos are 3-3 SU and 0-5-1 ATS at Invesco Field in the Mile High City.

--The Broncos have bounced back from a three-game losing streak to win three of their last four games both SU and ATS. They went into Giants Stadium and spanked the Jets last week. Jay Cutler was the catalyst, throwing for 357 yards and a pair of TDs.

--The ‘over’ is 6-5-1 overall for the Broncos, but the ‘under’ is 4-2 in their home games.

--The ‘under’ is 4-2 for the Chiefs in their six road contests.

**Patriots at Seahawks**

--Most books have tabbed New England (7-5 SU, 6-6 ATS) as a six-point ‘chalk’ with the total in the 42-43 range. Gamblers can take the Seahawks on the money line for a plus-210 payout.

--This is a crucial game for the Patriots, who are in danger of missing the playoffs after going 16-0 during the 2007 regular season. They have lost two of their last three games, including last week’s 33-10 home loss to Pittsburgh as one-point favorites.

--New England QB Matt Cassel has started 11 games since Tom Brady went down with a torn ACL in Week 1. Cassel has completed 64.5 percent of his throws for 2,784 yards with a 13/10 TD-INT ratio.

--Seattle QB Matt Hasselbeck didn’t practice on Friday and is “doubtful.” Bettors should expect Seneca Wallace to get the starting nod. Wallace has a 5/1 TD-INT ratio this year, starting in four games.

--The Seahawks are 1-5 SU and 1-4-1 ATS at home this year. Meanwhile, the Pats are 3-2 SU and 4-1 ATS on the road.

--The ‘under’ is 3-2 for New England on the road, 3-2-1 for Seattle at home.

vegasinsider.com.

Total Talk - Week 14
By Chris David

Week 13 Recap

Thanksgiving Day started with a bang and ended with one as well. All three winners posted 34 points or more on the holiday, including 47 by Tennessee and 48 from Philadelphia. The ‘over’ went 2-1 in the three contests. On Sunday, the pace slowed down considerably and weather played a factor in a handful of games. The Colts and Browns combined for 16 points and never threatened the closing number of 44 points. Also, the 49ers defeated the Bills 10-3 in a game where the total closed at 42 ½.

On Monday, bettors pushed the Jaguars-Texans total up to 48 ½ points. Unfortunately for ‘over’ players, Houston put together another decent defensive performance and toppled Jacksonville 30-17 in a game that was 10-0 at halftime and 16-3 with less than five minutes to play. The MNF ‘over’ still owns an incredible 12-2 mark on the season.

The ‘under’ went 9-7 in the 16 games played. After 13 weekly installments, the ‘over’ stands at 96-90 (51.6%).

Weather Check

It’s no surprise that bad weather comes in December and this week is no different. Temperatures are expected to drop and winds to increase. Stay abreast with our WEATHER UPDATES throughout the weekend, especially for the below matchups:

Houston at Green Bay – The forecast is calling for temperatures under 20 degrees.

Dallas at Pittsburgh – Temperatures expected to be in the high twenties with a 40% chance of snow showers. Wind gusts could reach 20 miles per hour. The Steelers have seen the ‘under’ go 3-0 in their three meetings this year against NFC East opponents.

Philadelphia at N.Y. Giants – There is a 30% chance of snow showers expected in the Tri-State Area this Sunday and winds are forecasted between 10-20 miles per hour.

Dome Sweet Dome

Games played indoors this season have been solid ‘over’ looks and we have five games slated in those venues this week.

Cincinnati at Indianapolis: The Colts have watched the ‘under’ go 3-2 at home and the number (42) isn’t exactly high. However, the Bengals offense is averaging 12.6 PPG and Indy’s attack (21.4 PPG) isn’t a juggernaut this season either.

Atlanta at New Orleans: The ‘over’ has cashed in the last two meetings, including the first matchup this season when the Falcons stopped the Saints 34-20 at home. The Saints put up 521 yards of total offense, but had three turnovers – one returned for a touchdown. The game also saw 28 points scored in the fourth quarter. New Orleans has seen the ‘over’ go 4-1 at home, but the ‘under’ has gone 5-1 in the Falcons’ road contests this year. Something has to give in Louisiana on Sunday.

St. Louis at Arizona: The Cardinals’ offense is averaging 28.2 PPG and the defense is giving up 26.1 PPG at home, which has translated into an easy 5-0 ‘over’ record in the desert. Arizona torched St. Louis 34-13 on Nov. 2, but the combined 47 points slipped ‘under’ the closing total of 50 points. Prior to that outcome, the previous three games went ‘over’ the total. The Rams’ defense has allowed 30 PPG away from home. The total has gone 3-3 in those six contests.

Miami at Buffalo: This matchup heads to Toronto’s Rogers Centre, which keeps the roof closed in poor weather. Four of the last five meetings between the Dolphins and Bills have gone ‘under’ the total.

Divisional Battles - Round Two

I haven’t received too many nice emails on this section and deservingly so. The vice versa total system went 2-2 last week and is 3-4 the last seven. In Week 14, we have two matchups that fit perfectly and they look doable on paper, stress the paper part!

Minnesota at Detroit (45.5): The Vikings nipped the Lions 12-10 on Oct. 12 from the HHH Metrodome in an ugly affair. Detroit led 3-2 after 30 minutes and the entire game was plagued by penalties (12), turnovers (4) and inefficient attacks (18% 3rd down conversions). Minnesota was fortunate to get the win but did move the ball, gaining 392 total yards, with 86 coming on one play. The combined 22 points never came close to the closing number of 44 ½ and now the number is higher this time around? Well, a lot has changed on both clubs since then. First, Minnesota’s offense has scored 28 points or more in five of the last six games since the win over the Lions. Second, the Lions’ defense has allowed 33.4 PPG since holding Minnesota to 12 points back in Week 5.

In the last four seasons, the total between the Lions and Vikings has gone 1-1 or the ‘over’ went 2-0 when they’ve met in the regular season. Since the first game went well ‘under’ some bettors are expecting a turn around and the trends certainly point that way. The Vikings have seen the ‘over’ go 5-1 on the road this year, while Detroit has seen the ‘over’ go 4-1-1 at Ford Field.

Philadelphia at N.Y. Giants (43): The Eagles and Giants combined for 701 yards and 67 points in a battle on Nov. 9 that saw New York win 36-31. The ‘over’ snapped a three-game ‘under’ streak between the two teams. The total on the first matchup this year hovered around 43 ½ points, which is close to this week’s number. Weather reports in New York (see above) could be dangerous and this game means a lot to Philadelphia. The public’s perception is high on the Eagles’ offense right now, after watching them drop 48 on Arizona last Thursday. The Giants’ defense (12.8 PPG) has been stout at home and most would expect them to grind out the clock with their running game against Philly. The Eagles have seen the ‘over’ go 4-2 on the road but they’ve posted 13 and 7 in their last two games away from home.

Sunday Night Football – Under Alert?

The Redskins and Ravens square off on Sunday from M&T Bank Stadium and the total (36) on this game is the lowest on the board in Week 14. Washington has been a clear-cut ‘under’ (9-2) team all season long. Head coach Jim Zorn and company haven’t cashed an ‘over’ ticket for gamblers since Sept. 28 when it defeated Dallas 26-24 and total players that wagered on that affair know it wasn’t easy. Washington’s bend but don’t break defense has kept the club in games all season long. The highest amount that the unit has surrendered all year long has been 24 points and that’s happened on two occasions. Baltimore has watched the ‘over’ go 8-4 this year, which is surprising since most associate this team with its defense. One factor that helps ‘over’ tickets is defensive touchdowns, and the Ravens rank second in the league with five. The club is averaging 24.3 PPG and that’s behind rookie QB Joe Flacco (61%, 12 TDs, 9 Ints), who has been pretty good in his first year. This matchup is big for both teams which should make the rookie coaches (Zorn, Harbaugh) call a conservative game and rely on their defensive units. Speaking of defenses, the Ravens have allowed just 10 PPG at home this year. The last meeting between the two teams came in 2004, with Baltimore defeating Washington 17-10.

vegasinsider.com

Divisional Battles
By Josh Jacobs

The obvious headline unavoidable by any media outlet is what’s crumbling beneath the Meadowlands. The Giants are 11-1 straight up and 10-2 against the spread but if you’re not a full time gambler then the Plaxico Burress story is what takes center stage. But luckily we are bettors so let’s not concern ourselves with weapons, clubs and court rooms for the time being.

This week we’ll move away from the usual preview into a tip-sheet format. Here are three 1:00 p.m. EST contests that will test all of our wagering skills to the fullest.

Philadelphia at N.Y. Giants

-- Brobury Sports has installed the Giants as seven-point home favorites with a total set at 43 points. This is the 11th time that books have installed New York as favorites this season. The G-Men are 8-2 as favorites this season.

-- Shutting out Washington in the second half last week, New York posted a 23-7 win. QB Eli Manning went 21-for-34 with 305 yards and one touchdown in the last ‘W’. RB Brandon Jacobs chalked up 71 yards with one touchdown and WR Amani Toomer hauled in five catches for 85 yards and a TD. The Giants’ defense held the Redskins to holding the ball for just 24:16 of possession.

-- Even with New York choking teams out for 18.6 PPG allowed in the last 10, the ‘over’ has managed to go 6-3-1. Credit for the ‘over’ cashing has been a high powered offense averaging 29.5 PPG in the same 10 games.

-- Philadelphia (6-5-1 SU, 7-5 ATS) finally snapped an 0-2-1 SU slide when it overpowered Arizona at home by the final of 48-20. The Eagles easily covered the 3½-point spread while the total flew ‘over’ at 48 ½.

-- The focus only two weeks ago was if Philly slinger Donovan McNabb would be keeping his job after throwing 8-for-18 (44.4 completion percentage) with 59 yards and two interceptions. But patience paid dividens as McNabb went downfield for 260 yards with four scores against the Cardinals.

-- This will be only the third game of the season that the Eagles have been listed as the underdog this season. Week 2 in Dallas witnessed Philly covering as a 6 ½-point ‘dog in Dallas (losing 41-37). It was in Week 12 that the ‘Birds failed to cover the small, one-point spread in Baltimore, the same game that had McNabb yanked off the field after the four interception debacle.

-- The Giants are 6-2 SU in their last eight versus the Eagles and have covered four straight in head-to-head matchups.

-- New York has covered seven straight games.

Minnesota at Detroit

-- Still searching for its first win of the season, most books have installed Detroit (0-12 SU, 4-8 ATS) as nine-point underdogs. Bodog.com has listed the total at 45½-points.

-- Minnesota (7-5 SU, 5-7 ATS) has lost two important components on its defensive line when the NFL suspended six players in the league for violating the anti-doping policy. Defensive tackles Kevin Williams (48 tackles) and Pat Williams (38 tackles) will be sorely missed for a team ranked second best with 73.1 YPG allowed on the ground.

-- Two of Detroit’s most recent ATS wins have come by outyarding its opponents through the air (against Carolina and Chicago). But then again, the Lions are 0-6 ATS at home this season. Heck, when you’re scoring 15.5 PPG and allowing 38.3 PPG at home, the chances to cover are far and few between.

-- QB Gus Frerotte has been the furthest thing from efficient. Expect RB Adrian Peterson (1,311 rushing yards, nine TDs) to become the pawn, bishop, rook, queen and king in this matchup. However, the Vikings are 2-1 ATS when they’ve been outgained in the passing department in the last three).

-- The big question is will the Lions end the season winless? But for a betting sake, this is probably one of the more favorable spots for the team to work for an ATS win. The Lions aren’t as poor as one might think in the secondary, giving up 182.5 YPG this season. In the last three games, Detroit has held teams to passing for just 138.7 YPG.

-- The ‘over’ is 9-4 in the last 13 head-to-head meetings in Detroit. The ‘over’ has also gone 8-1-1 in the Lions last 10 games on field turf.

Atlanta at New Orleans

-- Sportsbetting.com has listed New Orleans (6-6 SU, 8-4 ATS) as three-point home favorites with a total sitting at 51½. Atlanta (8-4 SU, 8-4 ATS) is looking to reward bettors on the money line with a +140 price tag attached (bet $100 to make $140).

-- The Saints have been an ATM machine at home this season with a 4-1 ATS record sending backers rushing the counter in droves. Only one of those ATS wins has seen New Orleans installed as a home underdog (a win against Chicago in Week 6, 22-20).

-- Atlanta is in a revival period this year. Rookie QB Matt Ryan is doing a bang up job behind center, passing for 2,625 yards with 13 scores and only six interceptions. Those numbers have led to a sizzling 91.2 QB rating.

-- Three of the Falcons four losses of the season have witnessed Ryan unable to find the end zone in those contests. The Boston College slinger is coming off an efficient outing in a 22-16 win over San Diego on the road. Ryan completed 17-of-23 passes for two TDs.

-- Total players, Atlanta is an almost guaranteed 5-1 on the ‘under’ on the road this season. The Falcons have struggled to enter the end zone by registering 17.5 PPG on the road while passing for just 189.8 YPG. This comes in contrast to the Saints’ QB Drew Brees going air for 331.4 YPG at home this season. This has translated into scoring 33.4 PPG at home for a 3-1-1 record on the ‘over’.

-- This is a revenge spot for New Orleans who was defeated 34-20 on Nov. 9 in Atlanta. The Saints are 4-0 ATS in the last four revenge games versus the Falcons.

-- The ‘over’ is 17-5-1 in New Orleans last 23 versus the NFC.

vegasinsider.com.

Football Cheat Sheet
by: Marc Lawrence

Philadelphia at New York Giants

Series History: The Giants beat the Eagles, 36-31, at Philadelphia as 3-point dogs earlier this season, extending their streak to 3-0 SU and ATS in the last three meetings.

Philadelphia Key Stat: Andy Reid is 10-4 SU and 12-2 ATS with division revenge when playing off a loss.

New York Key Stat: Tom Coughlin is 4-9 in his NFL head coaching career as a division favorite off back-to-back SU and ATS wins.

You Need To Know: NFL teams on a 7-game exact win streak that have covered the spread in their last three games are 2-10-1 as favorites of more than 6 points.

Miami at Buffalo (at the Rogers Centre in Toronto)

Series History: Dolphins beat the Bills, 25-16, this season. Buffalo is 8-1 SU and 7-1-1 ATS the last nine games in this series.

Miami Key Stat: The Fish are 1-8 away versus division opponents off a non-division road win,

Buffalo Key Stat: Bill outstatted the 49ers, 350-195, in last week's 10-3 loss.

You Need To Know: 6-6 NFL teams in Game Thirteen off one loss-exact are 12-3 SU and ATS when playing with revenge.

Washington at Baltimore

Series History: These two regional foes are 3-3 SU and ATS un the last six meetings, alternating SU and ATS wins in each game. Baltimore won the last meeting in 2004, 17-10.

Washington Key Stat: The Redskins are 10-1 ATS as dogs after scoring less than 10 points in its last game.

Baltimore Key Stat: The Ravens are 1-8 ATS in games off a double-digit SU and ATS win before facing the Steelers.

You Need To Know: Under Jim Zorn, Washington is 3-2 SU and 1-3-1 ATS against losing teams. Against .500 or greater teams they are 4-3 SU and ATS.

Other Top Trends for this weekend: The Falcons are 1-8 SU and 0-9 ATS in games off back-to-back SU and ATS wins... Bill Belichick is 14-2 SU and 15-1 ATS against teams from the NFC West Division.

This Week's Super System Says: Play On any NFL winless dog from game Eleven out versus an opponent with a win percentage of .200 or greater.

ATS W-L Record Since 1980: 17-6

Play On: Detroit Lions

NFL Power Poll Week 14
by: Alex Smart Sports

1: New York Giants (10-2 ATS, 11-1 SU) (LW: 1) The defending champs are still #1 in the hearts of sports betting fans after blowing out the Skins 23-7 last weekend. They’re now a perfect 4-0 both SU and ATS against the NFC East this season, and look to put a stamp on the division and potentially a first round bye next week against Philadelphia.

Next Up: Home vs. Eagles (-7)

2: Tennessee Titans (10-2 ATS, 11-1 SU) (LW: 2) Slump this! After suffering their first loss of the season, the Titans rebounded on a short week to destroy Detroit 47-10. They have a chance to lock up the AFC South this week with some help, and will face off with a Cleveland team that is searching for a quarterback.

Next Up: Home vs. Browns (-13.5)

3: Baltimore Ravens (9-3 ATS, 8-4 SU) (LW: 3) Baltimore just keeps on rolling. The Ravens covered their sixth game in their L/7 by beating Cincinnati 34-3, easily covering the spread as seven-point favorites. They’re just a game back of Pittsburgh in the AFC North, and could be considered on the inside track to shock the world and win the division. Baltimore is 4-1 SU and ATS at home this year, and play three of its final four at home.

Next Up: Home vs. Redskins (-5)

4: Atlanta Falcons (8-4 ATS, 8-4 SU) (LW: 5) It’s not often that East Coast teams go West and come out victorious, but that’s what the Falcons have done twice this season. After shutting out Oakland 24-0 a month ago, Atlanta beat San Diego 22-16 to move to 8-4 and in prime position for a playoff birth. If there’s one trend going against the black and red, it’s that they are 0-2 SU and ATS on the road in division, and hope to buck that trend this week in New Orleans.

Next Up: Away @ Saints (+3)

5: New Orleans Saints (8-4 ATS, 6-6 SU) (LW: 7) The season may be all but over in New Orleans, but Saints bettors won’t mind. They lost to the Bucs on a late field goal, but it was enough to cover the spread as 3.5-point underdogs. QB Drew Brees should go over 4,000 yards on the season this week and could still break Dan Marino’s all-time passing yardage record.

Next Up: Home vs. Falcons (-3)

6: New York Jets (7-5 ATS, 8-4 SU) (LW: 4) With a chance to put some distance between itself and the Patriots and Dolphins, New York fell flat on its face by losing 34-17 to Denver. The loss snapped a four-game win streak for Jets bettors, and was the first time since October 19th that the Jets failed to score at least 20 points in a game. They are 8-1 in games where they score 20+ points and 0-3 when they don’t.

Next Up: Away @ 49ers (-4)

7: Carolina Panthers (6-5-1 ATS, 9-3 SU) (LW: 6) Carolina took the NFC by storm by marching into Lambeau Field and dropping the Pack 35-31. All of the marbles in the NFC South will be on the table when the Panthers host Tampa Bay, a team they’ve already lost to 27-3 this season at Raymond James Stadium.

Next Up: Home vs. Buccaneers (-3)

8: Philadelphia Eagles (7-5 ATS, 6-5-1 SU) (LW: 13) The Eagles picked up a huge season-saving victory against the Cardinals on Thanksgiving night. They still have slim hopes for the postseason, but they’ll have to do something that no one else has pulled off this season: beating the Giants in the Meadowlands.

Next Up: Away @ Giants (+7)

9: Arizona Cardinals (7-5 ATS, 7-5 SU) (LW: 6) Arizona may have lost 48-20 to Philadelphia, but it is still in a dominant spot for the NFC West crown. Its final three tune-up games should be much easier, beginning with a visit from the Rams to the desert this weekend.

Next Up: Home vs. Rams (-13.5)

10: Tampa Bay Buccaneers (7-5 ATS, 8-4 SU) (LW: 9) It wasn’t a thing of art as usual, but the Bucs took care of business by beating the Saints 23-20 on Sunday, keeping pace with Carolina in the NFC South. The next two games for Tampa Bay are critical, as they visit both the Panthers and Falcons before closing out with two games at Raymond James Stadium.

Next Up: Away @ Panthers (+3)

11: Green Bay Packers (7-5 ATS, 5-7 SU) (LW: 8) The window of opportunity for the Packers is beginning to close. After a 35-31 loss to Carolina over the weekend, the Pack are two games behind Minnesota for the NFC North lead, and face an absolute must-win against a stingy Texans team this weekend.

Next Up: Home vs. Texans (-6)

12: Pittsburgh Steelers (6-6 ATS, 9-3 SU) (LW: 18) Are the Steelers the best team in the AFC? They looked the part on Sunday, beating the defending AFC champs 33-10 for its third straight victory. They’re 0-4 ATS at home against teams over .500 this year, and hope to buck that trend this week against “Big D.”

Next Up: Home vs. Cowboys (-3)

13: Cleveland Browns (6-5-1 ATS, 4-8 SU) (LW: 11) Who’s next at quarterback for the Browns? Derek Anderson was replaced by Brady Quinn, and now both are finished for the season with injuries. Enter Ken Dorsey, who football bettors might remember for… well… nothing in particular. That’s terrible news for a team that has already looked like it’s tanking the season, especially going into Nashville next week.

Next Up: Away @ Titans (+13.5)

14: Dallas Cowboys (6-6 ATS, 8-4 SU) (LW: 17) They may sort of be floating under the radar, but it sure appears like the Cowboys are back in the saddle since Tony Romo returned to the lineup. The Boys have now covered three straight after beating Seattle 34-9 on Thursday. They’ve had a long week of preparation and will need it going into Heinz Field.

Next Up: Away @ Steelers (+3)

15: New England Patriots (6-6 ATS, 7-5 SU) (LW: 10) The “perfect Patriots” of old are on the verge of being left out of the playoffs. The bad news is that three of their final four games are on the road, but the good news is that the next two are in Seattle and Oakland, two teams who are simply awful.

Next Up: Away @ Seahawks (-4.5)

16: Kansas City Chiefs (6-6 ATS, 2-10 SU) (LW: 19) The Chiefs are getting friskier and friskier as the days go on. Though HC Herm Edwards notched his second win in about a million games when KC beat Oakland 20-13 last weekend, there’s no doubt that the win did more harm than good for the franchise, as its draft stock is plummeting.

Next Up: Away @ Broncos (+9.5)

17: Indianapolis Colts (5-6-1 ATS, 8-4 SU) (LW: 20) Indianapolis only salvaged a push for its sports bettors in its 10-6 victory in Cleveland in Week 13, but at 8-4, they appear set to capture one of the two Wild Card spots in the AFC. There’s no reason for the Colts not to run their winning streak to six this week with Cincinnati coming to town.

Next Up: Home vs. Bengals (-13.5)

18: Washington Redskins (5-6-1 ATS, 7-5 SU) (LW: 14) If HC Jim Zorn had visions of a playoff birth in his plans, Washington had better get on a roll in a hurry. After losing 23-7 at home against the G-Men on Sunday, Washington is now a game behind Dallas and Atlanta for the final playoff birth in the NFC. The Skins haven’t won in Baltimore since the Colts played there.

Next Up: Away @ Ravens (+5)

19: Minnesota Vikings (5-7 ATS, 7-5 SU) (LW: 25) Minnesota picked up a huge victory on Sunday Night Football against the Bears by the count of 34-14. They took sole possession of first place in the NFC North with the win and shouldn’t lose any ground to the field this weekend, as the Vikes visit the Lions.

Next Up: Away @ Lions (-9.5)

20: Miami Dolphins (5-7 ATS, 6-6 SU) (LW: 15) Miami has now won six out of seven games after beating the Rams 16-12 in St. Louis last weekend, but has dropped four straight football betting decisions. The loss snapped the Fins’ three game cover-streak on the road this season, but short of a 31-10 loss in Arizona in Week 2, the squad is still undefeated away from Dolphins Stadium.

Next Up: Away @ Bills (+1)

21: Chicago Bears (5-6-1 ATS, 6-6 SU) (LW: 16) The Bears’ playoff hopes are starting to run fairly thin. They’re now a game behind Minnesota after losing 34-14. The good news is that they have the next three games at home, but the bad news is that Minnesota’s schedule isn’t much harder. Losing to Jacksonville this week would be fatal.

Next Up: Home vs. Jaguars (-6.5)

22: San Francisco 49ers (5-7 ATS, 4-8 SU) (LW: 27) The Niners have played four straight pretty good games after beating Buffalo 10-3 last weekend. They aren’t going to make the playoffs, but they can throw a real monkey wrench into the works in the AFC playoffs in these next two weeks against the Jets and Dolphins.

Next Up: Home vs. Jets (+4)

23: Houston Texans (5-7 ATS, 5-7 SU) (LW: 28) Monday night was like the Super Bowl for the Texans, as they knocked off the Jags 30-17 in the highlight of their season. For a team that finished .500 last year, the best Houston will likely do is finish 7-9 this year, but it’s apparent that HC Gary Kubiak is tired of the losing mentality.

Next Up: Away @ Packers (+6)

24: Buffalo Bills (5-7 ATS, 6-6 SU) (LW: 23) If Buffalo wasn’t finished before, it probably is now. After losing 10-3 to San Francisco on Sunday, the Bills are two games behind the Jets in the AFC East and will likely need to win out just to have a chance of qualifying for the playoffs. They are 0-3 SU and ATS in their L/3 home games, but hope that a change of scenery will help this week, as they’ll take on the Fins in Toronto.

Next Up: Home vs. Dolphins (-1)

25: San Diego Chargers (4-7-1 ATS, 4-8 SU) (LW: 21) The perennial playoff contenders are likely finished. The Chargers lost to Atlanta 22-16 last weekend, dropping them three behind Denver with four games to go. They’ll be heavy favorites in their next two games against Oakland and Kansas City, but it’s pretty clear that it’ll be too little, too late.

Next Up: Home vs. Raiders (-10)

26: Oakland Raiders (5-7 ATS, 3-9 SU) (LW: 22) How many weeks has DeAngelo Hall been removed from Oakland? You wouldn’t know that he’s been gone for almost half the season now, as he still leads the team in interceptions with three. That number is key, because it’s also the most touchdowns that anyone has scored on the team, and with the way things are going, will probably be the number of wins the silver and black will end up with this year.

Next Up: Away @ Chargers (+10)

27: Denver Broncos (4-7-1 ATS, 7-5 SU) (LW: 31) Denver made a statement to the Jets and the rest of the AFC over the weekend by winning 34-17 in the Meadowlands. It can make a statement of the opposite kind when it visited Kansas City earlier in the year, and another loss to the Chiefs this weekend would be ridiculously embarrassing.

Next Up: Home vs. Chiefs (-9.5)

28: St. Louis Rams (4-8 ATS, 2-10 SU) (LW: 30) The good news for the Rams is that they only lost the first half of their game against Miami 10-9, which gave them a much better chance to cover than in their L/3 weeks when they got outscored by approximately 968 points in the first half. The bad news is that they’ve lost six straight games.

Next Up: Away @ Cardinals (+13.5)

29: Seattle Seahawks (4-7-1 ATS, 2-10 SU) (LW: 24) Oy vey. Those are the only two words that can be going through the heads of Seahawks bettors at this point. The Seaturkies lost 34-9 in Dallas on Thanksgiving Day, and the only thing left to be thankful for in Seattle is that the season is almost over.

Next Up: Home vs. Patriots (+4.5)

30: Detroit Lions (4-8 ATS, 0-12 SU) (LW: 26) There isn’t a defense worse in the NFL than Detroit’s, and that unit was in prime display on Thanksgiving when the Lions got trumped by Tennessee 47-10. The blue and silver have only held one opponent under 24 points this season, but that opponent is up this week when the Vikings come to the “Motor City.”

Next Up: Home vs. Vikings (+9.5)

31: Cincinnati Bengals (4-8 ATS, 1-10-1 SU) (LW: 29) The Bengals can’t seem to figure out to get out of their own way. On Sunday, they got crushed 34-7 by Baltimore. The best thing for Cincy would be to continue losing, as at least it’ll have a hope for the #1 pick in the draft in the Spring.

Next Up: Away @ Colts (+13.5)

32: Jacksonville Jaguars (3-9 ATS, 4-8 SU) (LW: 32) Even though the Jags aren’t the worst team in the NFL by a long shot, they are sure playing like it of late. They lost in Houston 30-17 on Monday Night Football and have now dropped their L/3 games by a combined score of 84-43. HC Jack Del Rio has to be on the hot seat.

Next Up: Away @ Bears (+6.5)

Pro News & Notes

Cleveland @ Tennessee- Titans 11-1 SU, 10-2 ATS…+13 turnover margin…Browns RB Jerome Harrison averaging 8.4 ypc!…Cleveland has scored 17 pts or less in 7 of 12 games

Washington @ Baltimore- Portis probable but check status…no Redskins opponent has scored more tahn 24 points…Ravens have held 8 of 12 opponents to 13 pts or less…Balt 4-1 at home…Wash 4-1 on road

Dallas @ Pittsburgh- Steelers just 2-2 SU in last 4 home games…Parker and Moore to share carries…boh teams 6-6 ATS…check status on RB Barber abd DE Ware for ‘Boys…Dallas -5 TO margin

Tampa Bay @ Carolina- Panthers 6-1-2 last 9 at home…RB’s Williams and Stewart combined 1500+ rushing yards…Buccs have allowed just 1 rushing TD thru 12 games!

Where the action is: Sunday's key line moves
By BETED.COM

Randy Scott is the sportsbook manager for betED.com. He give details on weather, sharp action and injuries affecting Sunday's NFL pointspreads.

Cincinnati 42
Indianapolis -14
Sun 1:00 pm

Weather: Indoors, Lucas Oil Stadium
- The pointspread opened at: -14

- The total opened at: 42.5
- Where most of the bets are: Indianapolis

- Where most of the money is: Indianapolis

- Cincinnati key injuries: S Marvin White-knee (IR); TE Ben Utecht-foot (expected to miss) and WR T.J. Houshmandzadeh-back (probable)

- Indianapolis key injuries: DT Keyunta Dawson-hamstring; S Bob Sanders-knee

We have a classic one-sided combo here with the Colts being a very popular play each week and the Bengals being a very popular fade each week. Needless to say, we need some sort of showing this week from Cincinnati in order to not take a large hit early on Sunday. We have the Colts down as monster favorites to win outright at home and we also give them moderate odds to cover the double-digit pointspread.

Jacksonville 40
Chicago -7
Sun 1:00 pm

Weather: Partly Cloudy, Temp 19° F, Wind WNW – light wind speed

- The total was hit by wise action at: Under 41

- The pointspread opened at: -7

- Where most of the bets are: Chicago

- Where most of the money is: Jacksonville and Under

- Jacksonville key injuries: CB Rashean Mathis-knee (IR); Matt Jones-possible suspension (questionable)

- Chicago key injuries: CB Nathan Vasher-wrist (IR); WR Marty Booker-knee (questionable)

We give Chicago big favorite odds to win the game outright on home field. However, we make Jacksonville the faves to cover.

Houston 47.5
Green Bay -6
Sun 1:00 pm

Weather: Mostly Sunny, Temp 12° F, Wind WNW – light wind speed

- The total was hit by wise action at: Under 48.5

- The pointspread opened at: -6

- Where most of the bets are: Green Bay

- Where most of the money is: Green Bay and Under

- Houston key injuries: Matt Schaub-knee (expected to start)

- Green Bay key injuries: LB Nick Barnett-knee (IR); DE Kenny Pettway-knee (IR); S Atari Bigby-shoulder (questionable); C Scott Wells-concussion (questionable)

We have Green Bay as moderate favorites to win this game outright on home field. Its unknown how well Matt Schaub will perform after several weeks off and because of that, the total was hit Under 48.5 by early wise action.

Cleveland 37.5
Tennessee -14.5
Sun 1:00 pm

Weather: Sunny, Temp 33° F, Wind N – light wind speed

- The pointspread opened at: -14

- The total opened at: 38

- Where most of the bets are: Tennessee

- Where most of the money is: Tennessee

- Cleveland key injuries: QB Derek Anderson-finger (IR); QB Brady Quinn-finger (out for season); TE Kellen Winslow-ankle (expected to miss)

- Tennessee key injuries: DT Jason Jones-foot (probable) CB Nick Harper-ankle (questionable)

The QB situation for Cleveland gives them almost zero chance to win this game on the road. We give Tennessee moderate odds to cover the 2+TD pointspread at home.

Minnesota -10
Detroit 45.5
Sun 1:00 pm

Weather: Indoor, Ford Field

- The pointspread opened at: -10

- The total opened at: 47

- Where most of the bets are: Minnesota

- Where most of the money is: Split

- Minnesota key injuries: QB Gus Frerotte- (probable)

- Detroit key injuries: RB Kevin Smith-groin (probable); WR Mike Furrey-concussion (IR)

We make Minnesota monster favorites to win outright on the road against any team that can’t stop the run like this Detroit team. But it’s anyone’s guess how badly Detroit wants to win one before the season ends. We give Minnesota only coin-toss odds to cover in Detroit.

Washington 35.5
Baltimore -6
Sun 8:15 pm

Weather: Partly Cloudy, Temp 36° F, Wind WNW 22mph – very strong wind speed

- The pointspread opened at: -5.5

- The total opened at: 36

- Where most of the bets are: Baltimore

- Where most of the money is: Baltimore

- Washington key injuries: DT London Fletcher-foot (questionable); CB Shawn Springs-calf (probable); RB Clinton Portis-knee (upgraded to probable)

- Baltimore key injuries: OT Jared Gaither-shoulder (questionable); RB Willis McGahee-illness (questionable)

Baltimore has only lost one game at home this year and that was against the Titans. Its defense has allowed only 10 points in the last two games. We make Baltimore a huge favorite to both win outright and cover the spread at home this week.

Philadelphia 43
NY Giants -7.5
Sun 1:00 pm

Weather: Partly Cloudy, Temp 37° F, Wind WNW 20mph – strong wind speed

- The pointspread opened at: -9

- The total opened at: 45

- Where most of the bets are: NY Giants

- Where most of the money is: NY Giants

- Philadelphia key injuries: RB Correll Buckhaulter-knee (doubtful); RB Brian Westbrook-knee (probable)

- NY Giants key injuries: WR Plaxico Burress-thigh/suspension (arrested on felony weapons charge)

This is a very popular home team play for the bettors. It will be interesting to see how the QBs do in strong wind conditions; watch the total. We have the Giants as huge favorites to win outright on home field and even though the line dropped from -9 to -7.5, we still make them the moderate favorites to cover the TD+ pointspread.

Atlanta 51.5
New Orleans -3
Sun 1:00 pm

Weather: Indoors, Louisiana Superdome

- The pointspread opened at: -3

- The total opened at: 52.5

- Where most of the bets are: New Orleans

- Where most of the money is: New Orleans

- Atlanta key injuries: No significant injuries to report

- New Orleans key injuries: No significant injuries to report

We give New Orleans only slight odds to win outright at home and give Atlanta the favorite odds to cover the spread. Our bettors are telling us New Orleans will cover.

NY Jets -4
San Francisco 44.5
Sun 4:05 pm

Weather: Mostly Sunny, Temp 62° F, Wind W – light wind speed

- The pointspread opened at: -4

- The total opened at: 44.5

- Where most of the bets are: Jets

- Where most of the money is: Jets

- NY Jets key injuries: TE Bubba Franks-hip (probable)

- San Francisco key injuries: WR Arnaz Battle-foot (questionable); DB Allen Rossum-ankle (questionable)

We have the Jets down as the big road favorites to win outright; we also see them in a rebound situation which could make them the favorites to cover the spread.

Miami 42.5
Buffalo PK
Sun 4:05 pm

Weather: Indoors, Rogers Center – Toronto, Canada

- The pointspread opened at: Buffalo -1

- The total opened at: 42.5

- Where most of the bets are: Split

- Where most of the money is: Split

- Miami key injuries: No significant injuries to report

- Buffalo key injuries: QB Trent Edwards-groin (expected to miss) CB Jabari Greer-knee (expected to miss) TE Robert Royal-hamstring (doubtful)

We make this a coin-toss match-up, only giving Buffalo a very slight advantage for tangible reasons. In order to balance the action evenly, we will be adjusting the odds on this game often right up until the ball is kicked off in Toronto, Canada.

Kansas City 49
Denver -9.5
Sun 4:05 pm

Weather: Partly Cloudy, Temp 55° F, Wind WNW – light wind speed

- The total was hit by wise action at: Over 48

- The pointspread opened at: -9.5

- Where most of the bets are: Denver

- Where most of the money is: Denver and Over

- Kansas City key injuries: LB Donnie Edwards-knee/hamstring (questionable)

- Denver key injuries: CB Champ Baily-groin (probable)

We have Denver as monster favorites to win this game outright at home, but only give them low odds to cover the spread. The total was hit by early wise action Over 48 due to the uncertain status of CB Champ Baily.

St. Louis 48.5
Arizona -14
Sun 4:15 pm

Weather: Partly Cloudy, Temp 73° F, Wind SSE – light wind speed

- The pointspread opened at: -13.5

- The total opened at: 48.5

- Where most of the bets are: Arizona

- Where most of the money is: St. Louis

- St. Louis key injuries: No significant injuries to report

- Arizona key injuries: No significant injuries to report

The odds suggest St. Louis has no shot at winning this game outright, but we give them favorite odds to cover the double digit point spread in Arizona this week.

Dallas 39
Pittsburgh -3
Sun 4:15 pm

Weather: AM Snow Showers, Temp 26° F, Wind WNW 18mph – medium wind speed

- The pointspread opened at: -3

- The total opened at: 41.5

- Where most of the bets are: Pittsburgh

- Where most of the money is: Split / Under

- Dallas injuries: G Kyle Kosier-foot (IR); CB Adam Jones-suspension served (expected to return); Demarcus Ware-knee (probable); RB Marion Barber-toe (questionable)

- Pittsburgh injuries: RB Willie Parker-knee (expected to start); QB Ben Roethlisberger-knee (probable)

This will be one of our hottest games of the week. The action has been heavy on both sides of the line. We have the Steelers down as the big favorites to win the game outright and we also make them moderate favorites to cover the spread on home field.

New England -7
Seattle 42.5
Sun 4:05 pm

Weather: Showers, Temp 49° F, Wind SW – medium wind speed

- The pointspread was hit by wise action on: New England -5

- The total opened at: 43

- Where most of the bets are: New England

- Where most of the money is: New England

- New England key injuries: WR Wes Welker-concussion (questionable) LB Pierre Woods-mouth (expected to miss)

- Seattle key injuries: QB Matt Hasselbeck-back (out-will not play); OL Walter Jones-knee (very doubtful); LB Leroy Hill-shoulder (doubtful); C Chris Spencer-back (IR); G Mike Wahle-shoulder (IR); S C.J. Wallace-hamstring (questionable)

QB Matt Hasselbeck is out for this game. Back up QB Seneca Wallace will make his fifth start of the season. Wise action caught the opening line before it became certain Hasselbeck was out for this game. We give New England very good odds to both win the game outright and cover the pointspread.

NFL poolies' cheat sheet: Week 14 betting notes
By SHAWN HARTLEN

Jacksonville Jaguars at Chicago Bears (-6.5)

Why Jaguars cover: Have won two of last three meetings. David Garrard is 7-1 versus the NFC for his career. Bears are 1-4 ATS in their last five games.

Why Bears cover: Home team is 4-0 ATS in their last four meetings. Jaguars are 1-5 ATS in their last six games. Jacksonville is without starting DB Rashean Mathis who has a sprained MCL in his knee. The Jags have been careless with the football committing nine turnovers in their last three games, all losses. The Bears lead the league with 26 takeaways.

Total (40):Over is 12-4-2 in Jaguars’ last 18 road games.

Minnesota Vikings at Detroit Lions (+9.5)

Why Vikings cover: Are 5-1-1 ATS in their last seven meetings. Have won 12 of last 13 meetings. Adrian Peterson should have a field day against the league’s worst run defense. Lions are 0-7 ATS in their last seven home games.

Why Lions cover: Minnesota suffered a huge loss on the interior defensive line when standout defensive tackles Kevin and Pat Williams were suspended for the rest of the season for violating the NFL’s steroid policy. Lions’ running back Kevin Smith could have a big game. Vikings are 1-5 ATS in their last six vs. NFC North. Daunte Culpepper will be inspired to play against the team that drafted him.

Total (NA): Over is 9-4 in the last 13 meetings in Detroit.

Houston Texans at Green Bay Packers (-6)

Why Texans cover: Get starting QB Matt Schaub back from injury. Steve Slaton (182 combined yards, two TDs) is coming off his best game as a pro and gets to face the Packers’ 27th ranked rush defense. Stud receiver Andre Johnson could dominate a decimated Green Bay secondary.

Why Packers cover: Are 5-2 ATS in their last seven games. Have a tendency to thrive during the winter months, especially against warm weather teams like Houston. Quarterback Aaron Rodgers has a 100.6 passer rating at home.

Total (47): Over is 7-1 in Texans’ last eight road games and 9-2 in Packers’ last 11 home games.

Cincinnati Bengals at Indianapolis Colts (-13.5)

Why Bengals cover: Colts are 1-6 ATS in their last seven home games. Indy will be without linebacker Gary Brackett (99 tackles) who was injured last Sunday. Banged up Indianapolis defense might not be able to carry inconsistent offense anymore.

Why Colts cover: Have won last five meetings. Favorite is 5-1 ATS in their last six meetings. Bengals are 1-4 ATS in their last five meetings. Bengals are only averaging 11 points per game over their last seven.

Total (42½): Over is 5-2-1 in the last eight meetings.

Atlanta Falcons at New Orleans Saints (-3)

Why Falcons cover: Are 9-4 ATS in their last 13 meetings in New Orleans. Are still in contention for the NFC South title. Saints have lost RB Deuce McAllister, DT Charles Grant and DE Will Smith for the remainder of the season for violating the league’s steroid policy.

Why Saints cover: Have won four of last five meetings. Are 5-1 ATS in their last six home games and 4-1 ATS in their last five games overall. Despite .500 record, New Orleans has only one home loss this season.

Total (51½): Under is 4-1 in the last five meetings in New Orleans.

Philadelphia Eagles at New York Giants (-9)

Why Eagles cover: Road team is 5-1 ATS in their last six meetings. Underdog is 7-0 ATS in their last seven meetings. In his last five games against New York, Donovan McNabb has thrown for 1105 yards with eight TDs (one rushing) and only one interception. Giants dealing with Plaxico Burress mess, questions still surround Antonio Pierce’s involvement.

Why Giants cover: Have won six of last eight meetings. Can clinch the NFC East with a win. Eagles are 0-4 ATS in their last four meetings.

Total (44): Under is 9-2 in the last 11 meetings in New York.

Cleveland Browns at Tennessee Titans (-13.5)

Why Browns cover: Have won last three meetings. Are 4-0 ATS in their last four road games. Road team is 6-1 ATS in their last seven meetings. Defense forced four Colts turnovers last week, holding them to 10 points.

Why Titans cover: Are 10-2 ATS in their last 12 games. With injuries to Derek Anderson and Brady Quinn, Ken Dorsey (career 61.6 QB rating) will start at QB for the Browns against one of the league’s best defenses. Have had plenty of time to prepare and rest after playing on Thanksgiving last week.

Total (37½): Over is 4-1 in Titans’ last five home games.

Miami Dolphins vs. Buffalo Bills (-1)

Why Dolphins cover: Joey Porter was a menace in their last meeting, chalking up four tackles, two sacks and two forced fumbles. Buffalo could be without starting QB Trent Edwards who has a strained groin. J.P. Losman (10-19 as a starter) will play if Edwards can’t. Bills are 1-4 ATS in their last five home games and 1-5 ATS in their last six games overall.

Why Bills cover: Have won seven of the last nine meetings. Favorite is 6-2-1 ATS in their last nine meetings. Dolphins are 1-7-1 ATS in their last nine meetings and 0-4 ATS in their last four meetings in Buffalo. Even though this road game for both teams, Toronto has a strong Buffalo fan base that could make it like a home game for the Bills.

Total (42): Under is 4-1 in the last five meetings.

Kansas City Chiefs at Denver Broncos (-9.5)

Why Chiefs cover: Are 10-3 ATS in their last 13 road games. Larry Johnson has been explosive since returning from suspension averaging 4.8 yards per carry for 240 yards and a score. Johnson torched Denver for 198 yards rushing and two TDs in Week 4. Tony Gonzalez has really gelled with Tyler Thigpen, posting 33 catches for 375 yards and three TDs in the last four games.

Why Broncos cover: Have won two of last three meetings. Home team is 12-3-1 ATS in their last 16 meetings. Should get Champ Bailey back from injury. Peyton Hillis has sparked the Broncos’ running games with 247 yards (five yards per carry) and four TDs in the last three weeks. Chiefs are 1-6 ATS in their last seven meetings in Denver.

Total (48): Over is 11-3 in the last 14 meetings.

New York Jets at San Francisco 49ers (+4)

Why Jets cover: Are 4-1 ATS in their last five games and 7-2 ATS in their last nine road games. Have won four straight away from New York. Brett Favre, who is 7-0 against the 49ers, should exploit San Francisco’s 27th- ranked pass defense.

Why 49ers cover: Have won five of last six meetings. Shaun Hill is 4-2 as the Niners’ starting QB. The Jets are 0-2 on the West Coast this season.

Total (44½): Over is 5-0-1 in Jets’ last six games and 4-0 in 49ers’ last four home games.

New England Patriots at Seattle Seahawks (+4.5)

Why Patriots cover: Have won 14 straight games against the NFC. Seahawks are 1-4-1 ATS in their last six home games. The Seahawks have had a hard time protecting QB Matt Hasselbeck who has 57.9 passer rating and six interceptions in three games since returning from injury.

Why Seahawks cover: Have won five of last six meetings. Patriots are 3-9 ATS in their last 12 games on field turf. Matt Cassel has committed five turnovers alone in his last two games.

Total (43): Under is 5-0 in Seahawks’ last five games.

St. Louis Cardinals at Arizona Cardinals (-13.5)

Why Rams cover: Cardinals allowed 48 points to Philly last week. Road team is 5-2 ATS in their last seven meetings. Underdog is 8-2 ATS in their last 10 meetings.

Why Cardinals cover: Have won five of last six meetings. Rams are 3-7 ATS in their last 10 meetings. St. Louis’ 22nd-ranked pass defense will have a hard time stopping Kurt Warner and company. Rookie Tim Hightower had his best game as a pro in Week 8 against the Rams, rushing for a career high 109 yards and a score.

Total (48½): Over is 7-0 in Cardinals last seven home games.

Dallas Cowboys at Pittsburgh Steelers (-3)

Why Cowboys cover: Have won three of last four meetings. Are 4-1 ATS in their last five games. Get Pacman Jones back from suspension. Steelers are 1-4 ATS in their last five home games.

Why Steelers cover: Made a statement with 33-10 road victory over New England last week. Marion Barber will play with a dislocated toe that should hinder his explosiveness. League sack leader DeMarcus Ware will play with a hyper-extended knee.

Total (41½): Over is 11-5 in Steelers’ last 16 games.

Washington Redskins at Baltimore Ravens (-5)

Why Redskins cover: Are 5-2-1 ATS in their last eight road games. NFC’s 3rd –ranked pass defense could make it hard for rookie Joe Flacco who only averages 189.6 passing yards per game.

Why Ravens cover: Have won two of three meetings. Are 6-1 ATS in their last seven games and 5-1 ATS in their last six home games. Clinton Portis has missed parts of the last few games as he continues to deal with multiple injuries. Baltimore’s 3rd-ranked rush defense could stifle the banged up running back. Redskins are 1-5-1 ATS in their last seven games.

Total (36): Under is 7-0-1 in Redskins’ last eight games.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Carolina Panthers (-3)

Why Buccaneers cover: Have won two of last three meetings. Cadillac Williams continues to make his way back from a serious knee injury and is expected to become more involved in the offense. Picked off Jake Delhomme three times in Week 6 victory. Underdog is 8-3 ATS in their last 11 meetings.

Why Panthers cover: Buccaneers are 2-5 ATS in their last seven meetings in Carolina. NFL’s 6th-ranked rush offense could flourish against Tampa Bay who will be without run stopper Jovan Haye who has a knee injury. Delhomme is 7-2 for his career against the Bucs.

Total (38½): Under is 11-5 in the last 16 meetings and 4-0 in the last four meetings in Carolina.

What bettors need to know: Redskins at Ravens
By T.O. WHENHAM

Baltimore Ravens at Washington Redskins (-5, 36)

Line Movement

It has been a few years since this has been the case, but the public has a love affair with the Baltimore Ravens. More than 70 percent of bets have been placed on the Raves this week. Despite the obvious affection, the line has been slow to move. It opened at -5 and it is still widely available there. The two teams are moving in opposite directions against the spread - Baltimore has covered six of its last seven, while Washington is just 1-5-1 ATS over the same period.

Total

The total opened at a low number - 36.5 - but apparently that wasn't low enough. It’s dropped to as low as 35 with some books. That downward pressure comes in large part from the Redskins - they have nine unders and a push in their last 12 games. They are used to the small numbers, too - they have only had one total higher than 35 in their last six games.

Baltimore is almost as reliable, except they like to go over. They have done that eight times on the year, and six times in the last seven games.

Weather

It should be clear, but it won't be warm. The daytime highs are expected to be just above freezing and the temperature will only drop as the game continues. The low is expected to dip to about 24 degrees. Both of these teams are used to that kind of weather.

Injuries

The Ravens could staff an All-Star defense from their injured ranks. Ed Reed, Samari Rolle, Bart Scott and Fabian Washington are all questionable with various ailments, and Chris McAlister, Derrick Martin, Dawan Landry and Dwan Edwards are among the 14 people - an astonishing number - on the IR.

Washington has just three players on IR and two are the defensive ends that led to the arrival of dancing star Jason Taylor. They have several more people who are questionable. The most noteworthy is Clinton Portis. As has become the norm recently, he sat out practice this week. Still, the Ravens are preparing with the expectation that he will be involved.

A Tale of Two Quarterbacks

If you listened to the media these days then you would assume that Joe Flacco is having by far a better year than Jason Campbell. He's the media's current flavor of the month, while Campbell is buried under the weight of unreached expectations. The numbers tell a different story, though. Campbell has nearly 300 more yards passing, a better completion percentage and quarterback rating and four interceptions compared to Flacco's nine.

Common Opponents

Despite being in different conferences, the teams have played a surprising number of common opponents. Both teams have played the Giants - twice in Washington's case - and neither team looked particularly good against them.

Washington beat Philadelphia by six as 6.5-point underdogs in Philly, while the Ravens overwhelmed the Eagles 36-7, almost forcing Donovan McNabb out of town in the process.

Washington snuck past Cleveland 14-11 as 7-point favorites. The Ravens have played the Browns twice, winning and covering easily both times.

The Ravens lost by a field goal in overtime against the Steelers, but they covered the as 6-point dogs. Washington lost badly to Pittsburgh and didn't cover despite being favored. Washington is 2-3 against common opponents and 1-4 ATS. Baltimore is 3-2 straight up, and 4-1 ATS.

Redskins-Ravens preview
By Chris David

Sunday’s 14-game slate in the NFL concludes with a non-conference showdown in Maryland between Baltimore (8-4 straight up, 9-3 against the spread and Washington (7-5 SU, 5-7 ATS). NBC will provide national coverage of the primetime battle from M&T Bank Stadium, which begins at 8:15 p.m. EDT.

Not a lot of people expected the Ravens to contend this season, not even the oddsmakers at Brobury Sports. The Ravens were the fourth choice to win the AFC North (8/1), well behind the Steelers (10/11), Browns (8/5) and Bengals (9/2).

You really can’t blame the books for tabbing Baltimore as a long shot, especially when you look at the big picture. The Ravens entered the season with a rookie head coach (John Harbaugh), a first-year gunslinger (Joe Flacco) and what looked like an aging defense that gave up 24 points per game last year en route to a 5-11 finish.

The pendulum has swung the other way this year and Baltimore has put itself into favorable position in the AFC playoff race. Even though the club has won eight games and a wild card spot is on the cusp, six of the Ravens’ victories have come against clubs with losing records. Still it’s hard to discredit any team in the NFL that has won six of the last seven games, including four on the road.

Linebacker Ray Lewis and safety Ed Reed lead the league’s second best defense (253 YPG) in total yards and they’re third in points (15.8) allowed as well. The unit has played better at home, holding teams to 10 PPG, which has translated to a 4-1 record both SU and ATS. The five touchdowns scored by the defense is the second most in the NFL. And we almost forgot to mention the 20 interceptions by the Ravens, which is the best amongst all 32 teams.

While Lewis and Reed command and deserve a lot of respect, rookie QB Joe Flacco (12 TDs, 61%) has done an admirable job leading a team that looks to establish the run first. The Ravens are ranked third in rushing offense (143.8 YPG) but 27th in passing (179.8 YPG).

Baltimore’s offense will face a tough test on Sunday against Washington, which is ranked sixth in the league in total yards (283 YPG) and PPG (18.5). The club has not allowed any opponent to score more than 24 points this year and that happened on two occasions. Ironically the team won both of those games – New Orleans (29-24), Dallas (26-24).

The Redskins have a rookie head coach as well, Jim Zorn. The former Seattle Seahawks quarterback coach was supposed to increase results for a sluggish offense. Unfortunately, QB Jason Campbell (10 TDs) has only had two games of plus-300 yards this season. The signal caller has been intercepted four times in the last four games (1-3 SU, 1-3 ATS), something he didn’t do in his first eight games (6-2 SU, 5-3 ATS). The offense is one of three teams (Lions, Bengals) not to score 30 or more points this year.

The attack could be without its best player on Sunday, running back Clinton Portis (neck, ribs, knee), who is listed as ‘probable’ for the Redskins. Portis is ranked second in the league with 1,228 rushing yards and has also caught 23 passes out of the backfield.

The Redskins have hit the proverbial wall in Week 14 and it’s showing in the locker room with injuries, especially on defense. LB Marcus Washington (ankle) will miss his third straight game, while CB Shawn Springs (calf), MLB London Fletcher (foot) and DT Kedrick Golston (ankle) are all ‘questionable.’

Zorn and company have struggled of late, yet the team has played better on the road (4-1 SU, 3-2 ATS) than at home (3-4 SU, 2-5 ATS). The offense has posted 20.2 PPG away from home, just about three points higher than their season average (17.3 PPG)

Brobury Sports and head oddsmaker Eddie Franks have tabbed Baltimore as a five-point home favorite. The total has been hovering between 35 and 36 points, which is the lowest ‘over/under’ on the board in Week 14.

The Redskins have been a clear-cut ‘under’ (9-2) team all season long. Meanwhile, the Ravens have watched the ‘over’ go 8-4.

After this game, Baltimore hosts Pittsburgh in a key AFC North battle. Washington might be able to catch a break with a road trip to Cincinnati set for the following Sunday.

Bonus Trends:

# Baltimore has gone 1-1 both SU and ATS versus the NFC East this year.
# Washington owns a 1-1 SU and 0-2 ATS mark against the AFC North. The ‘under’ has gone 2-0.
# The Ravens own an eye opening 10-1 home record against NFC opponents since 2002, tied for the best mark amongst AFC squads.
# Washington has played in three nationally televised games on SNF or MNF this year and has responded with a 0-3 record both SU and ATS. The offense has put up 23 points in the three games, helping the ‘under’ go 3-0.
# Baltimore has been tabbed a “Consensus Pick” in both pick ‘em contests at the Las Vegas Hilton and Station Casinos for Week 14.
# The underdog has gone 8-5 in NBC’s Sunday Night Football slot this year. The ‘under’ has gone 9-4.

vegasinsider.com

Five Stats You Need to Know
by: Scott Rickenbach

Heading into Week 14 of the NFL please note these stats (all are ATS – against the spread, unless otherwise noted) are definitely items to consider as you look at the deep NFL card. However, this does not mean these are “plays” in the true sense of the word. That said, the hope is that the ATS information below helps you as you “traverse” this week’s NFL card! As always, best of luck in all your sports gaming from Scott Rickenbach

1) Buffalo is 1-4 when facing an opponent from their own division. This season the Bills are a “perfect” 0-3 in divisional play. This week they are playing the Dolphins in Toronto and the field they are playing on has already been complained about in terms of lighting (it’s a dome) as well as the turf (issues with seams). In other words, it might be wise to “tread lightly” here because the venue in Toronto is quite unique.

2) Green Bay is 6-0 when facing an AFC opponent. This week they are hosting a Houston team that has only gotten the cash six times in their last 19 games versus an NFC opponent. Also, the Texans are coming off of their big Monday Night Football win over Jacksonville so the timing could be “just right” to fade them here. The Texans are not known to travel well and are now 3-9 in their last 12 road games. Green Bay has only lost the money four times in their last 13 chances as a home favorite.

3) Kansas City is 5-2 in their last 7 road games against divisional opponents. This week they’re facing the AFC West rival Broncos and Denver is just 3-15 as a home favorite! Also, the Broncos have not fared well recently against divisional opponents as they’ve covered just two of the last eight versus AFC West opposition. Denver is off of a tough trip to the East Coast while the Chiefs could have garnered some extra confidence from last week’s rare road win. Broncos should win this but grabbing the points with Kansas City would be supported by the above trends.

4) St Louis is on a 0-5 run in divisional play. This week the Rams travel to Arizona and St Louis has covered just five of their last fifteen road games! Also, St Louis is facing a divisional opponent that has been doing just fine against its weaker NFC West competition. The Cardinals have covered four of their last five divisional match-ups. Big points here but they might be worth laying as the Rams futility continued last week in a home loss to Miami while Arizona is off of a rare blowout loss at Philly that could have them ready to inflict a similar punishing blow on somebody else. Rams could be in the wrong place at the wrong time.

5) New England is on a 20-7 run when favored on the road. The Patriots are visiting a Seahawks team that just can’t seem to snap their season-long funk as they got hammered by the Cowboys on Thanksgiving Day last week. Just because they’re back home may not help Seattle all that much. The Hawks have covered just three of their last nine games as a home underdog. Facing a Patriots team off of a 23 point loss at home may not help matters for the Seahawks. Pats could bring a little extra fire to the West Coast for this one!

NFL RESEARCH REPORT
By Indiancowboy

Houston vs. Green Bay

You need to be cognizant of the fact that over 70% are riding Green Bay here at home. But, it's a little odd considering that Houston comes off thumping Jacksonville on its first ever MNF debut and prior to that beat the Browns outright at Cleveland. GB has struggled to put together back to back wins and consequently back to back covers. Houston has actually covered 3 in a row including losing 27-33 at Indianapolis prior to the Cleveland and Jacksonville game. Green Bay comes off a tough loss to the Panthers at home as well as a tough loss to New Orleans on the road in which they were blown out. I actually lean on the Texans to stay inside the number and the game to go over the posted total here.

Cincy vs. Indianapolis

The Colts have been solid over the past few weeks but they were fortunate to get out alive at Cleveland which was a game if you remember had 80% of the public on Indy and they got burned. I have a standard rule, that if I see a team that is backed by the public to a tune of 80%, I go the other way and go the other way fast. Two quick examples is the Colts @ the Browns the other week and Buffalo facing Uconn at home as Uconn was coming off that big win against Wisconsin. Typically I would be all over the Bengals here given the points and that the Colts haven't blown out anyone really of late - BUT, the Bengals beat this team by 20 back in August. The Bengals had covered back to back games before a tough loss to the Steelers on the road where they had an early lead and an ugly loss to the upstart Ravens at home. So, you have a Bengals team on a bit of a bounce-back but a Colts team with revenge here. no thanks. But, if you think the Bengals are anywhere close to being competitive, I would undoubtedly lean on the over.

Atlanta vs. New Orleans

I'm a Falcons fan as you know and this is a game that they will have to show a lot of fortitude. After all, this is a team the Falcons buried at home after the Saints trashed talked and stated they were going to put up 40 points. Let me tell you something, the Saints are awfully cocky for a team that is last in the Division. This team is 6-6 and 5-1 at home as they have rocked the likes of Green Bay and the Chargers at home. But, guess what the Falcons have done? They beat Green Bay and the Chargers on the road. The Falcons are no joke folks, as Carolina and TB play each other, the Falcons are aware that if they win this game, they would be 2nd in the division and secured a 9 win season with 3 games left to play as they will be in the Driver's seat for a playoff spot. But, the Saints have this game as a must win to even go to the playoffs. Atlanta beat this team 32-20 earlier this year and has covered 4 of their last 5, but the Saints have covered their last 3 and come home after a tough loss at Tampa Bay by a field goal.

Eagles vs. Giants

Sure, the points look nice here, especially given how well the Eagles played on Thanksgiving. But, having said that, they face a Giant team that is flat out awesome, without Plex, with or without Tiki and Shockey from the days gone by. This team keeps shelving out those that want to be there to those that weed themselves out and yet, this "team" concept just keeps rocking with great coaching. The public is split a bit more on the Giants but not by much as they are favored by 52% although in some books, its 56%, but the Giants are 6-0 at home, they are 10-2 ATS and have covered 7 straight including beat this Eagles team 36-31 on the road earlier this year and have covered the last 3 in this contest. I think the Giants likely roll again here as they quickly put to rest all the outside talk of Plex and do well here against their division foes.

Cleveland vs. Tennessee

The only team that might matches the dominance of the Giants of late is indeed the Titans. The Titans too are 11-1 this season, this team still feels disrespected and are blowing teams out, the Titans are also 10-2 ATS but they have failed to cover their last 2 games at home including only beating the Pack by a field goal in overtime and losing to the Jets outright. Having said that, Cleveland will have Anderson going this game as Quinn is out for the year and Cleveland has a way of showing up in games you wouldn't expect them to including winning outright at Buffalo, Jacksonville and Cincy. Having said that, I think going against Tennessee is a tough call any day and laying this many points is as well. But, Tennessee of course is 10-2 ATS similar to the Giants this year.

Miami vs. Buffalo

More than 59% back Miami here and why not, this team is 7-5 and doesn't have the inconsistencies that they Bills are riddled with. The Bills are 1-5 of late including losing to the 49ers outright at home, while the Dolphins are 5-1 SU of late but have lost 4 straight covers including their most recent bout with St. Louis on the road. Over their last 3 wins the Dolphins have won by a total of 8 points and give Pennington credit, he will likely surpass the 3,000 passing yard mark today and has thrown for over a 60% completion mark. Tough call either way, but if there was ever a game the Bills needed to step up it is here and now especially after an outright loss at home, but the Dolphins have a way of squeaking games out. I think the Bills likely take an early lead and the Dolphins will make it a game of it as it comes down to the wire in the end.