Michigan at Washington 7:30 ET

Huskies over Wolverines- Ah...revenge...not really cuz their all gone, to the NFL. These two met in the tournament last year and it really wasn’t close as Michigan was much the best against the Huskies. Now they met as conference foes and Washington has the home  advantage and they use it against this unbalanced Wolverines’ club. Take WASHINGTON!  

Clemson at Florida State 7:00 ET

Seminoles (+) over Tigers- This is without a doubt the ugliest game on the board and for six days I wanted no part of it and refused to pay any attention to any reports because I knew that this game for me is TABOO. I was last time these two met was when Clemson who dominated the Seminoles but were forced to kick a short field goal from inside the 20-yard line ....they missed. That was a Megabucks game that got away as Florida State scored in OT and stopped the Tigers. Last season the Seminoles were great but now not so much. The best thing I can say about this match-up is FSU defense might be a hair better. Take FLORIDA STATE!  

Indiana at Northwestern 3:30 ET

Wildcats (+) over Hoosiers- Oh boy, I hope that I’m not chasing a loser against an established winner. Curt Cignetti (Google me I WIN) is making a splash in Bloomington and has caught the eyes of the Big Ten with his 4-0 SU and ATS start. Northwestern has a defense that can match the Hoosiers but it is on defense that Indiana ha a huge edge ranking 11th with 513 YPG while the Wildcats are 121st averaging only 295 YPG. Wildcats have won 5-of-6 meetings and playing at home helps. Take NORTHWESTERN!

Syracuse at UNLV 9:00 ET

Orange (+) over Rebels- Both of these schools are on the upswing and showing great strides and improvement the past two seasons. UNLV (4-0) is ranked for the first time in their history and Syracuse (3-1) has put up some awesome stats the first month of the season. The Orange led by Ohio State transfer quarterback Kyle McCord has passed for at last 339 yards a game while the Orange have out-gained all opponents by an average 134 yards per game. UNLV has taken giant steps the last two seasons but they are 4=10 ATS at home when coming off consecutive wins. Take SYRACUSE!

Tampa Bay at Atlanta 8:15 ET

Falcons over Buccaneers- I am very happy of what ‘we’ have gotten out of the Falcons this already this season and see no reason to desert a winning tune. Tampa has been good to us a well especially last week dominating the Eagles at home. It is hard to remember that the Buccaneers have been a playoff team of late but they just don’t leave a lasting impression. These two clubs split a pair of meetings last year with the Falcons having a huge yardage advantage in both games. Take ATLANTA!

Seattle at Detroit 8:15 ET

Seahawks (+) over Lions- How can a Lion defeat a Seahawks if he doesn’t know what it is or what it even looks like? So, this would lead me to believe that Detroit will be up against some sort of ghost because no one can figure how this team is undefeated. Think about it, the ‘Seahawks’ (whatever that may be) have beaten the Lions six straight times and the poor cats are confused. Having defeated Miami, New England and Denver is really not that impressive but three straight wins in the NFL is to be respected. Take SEATTLE!

Buffalo at Baltimore 8:20 ET

Ravens (-) over Bills- The Bills are riding high after three straight wins to start the season and the come to Baltimore a small underdog to an unimpressive 1-2 Ravens’ squad. Most have liked what they have seen from Buffalo who they had little expectations because of off season defections. Winning three straight in the NFL isn’t so easy, but when your opponents have been Arizona (1-2), Miami (1-2) and Jacksonville (0-3) we can better understand why. The Ravens got the much need win against Dallas last week ans they not let this one slip away. Take BALTIMORE!  

Philadelphia at Tampa Bay 1:00 ET

Buccaneers (+) over Eagles- Even coming off winning as our Megabucks Best Bet last Sunday I have no confidence in Philadelphia. I love their running back and I am so-so on their QB. Since the latter part of 2023 there seems to be something lacking. Tampa Bay was a playoff team a year ago and expects to be in the hunt again. I expect to see them rebound from their loss to Denver at home last week. The Buccaneer’s grounded the Eagles in last year’s NFC Playoffs 32-9 holding them to 13 first downs and 276 total yards on offense. Take TAMPA BAY!  

Cincinnati at Carolina 1:00 ET

Panthers (+) over Bengals- “and the ‘Mighty Casey’ has struck-out’...and so have the Bengals. I was one person that expected good of not not great things this season from the ‘Striped-Cats’. I kept a close eye on them during the preseason and things when as I expected until opening day. I passed on that one he but most of America choked on their ‘survival ‘pick. There is somethin’ rotten here. Dalton gives Panthers a shot. Take CAROLINA!

Los Angeles Rams at Chicago 1:00 ET

Bears (-) over Rams- One thing that I must say is that your get a professional effort virtually every time out with the Rams. They are injured and they are down but never concede and are not to be counted out. Last week trailing by 14-points in he fourth quarter and they rallied and took down San Francisco with three late scores. Meanwhile, with a struggling offense the Bears finally faltered and fell to Indianapolis. But, the Rams offensive firepower has been hampered by injured and the Bears defense will dampen any firepower they have left. Take CHICAGO!

Pittsburgh at Indianapolis 1:00 ET

Colts (+over Steelers- Wait hold on, am I reading right to left or do I just have the paper upside down because a team that had no quarterback and no running back appears to be running away with the AFC North as the Steelers open 3-0 and the rest of the division looks like crap. With only two touchdowns in three games their number one defense can cause problem for the Raw Colts QB Richardson. Indianapolis started 0-2 this season but pulled out a 21-17 win over the Bears last Sunday as Richardson struggled with two interceptions. The Colts had lost eight straight to Pittsburgh before winning last December. Return to sender! Take INDIANAPOLIS!

Washington State at Boise State 10:00 ET

Broncos (-) over Cougars- From the moment. When I saw this one (spread) come through the ticker I had to do a double-take thinking that maybe I had written the favorites number in the wrong column...no, it was correct the Broncos were better than a TD favorite over the Cougars. Washington State is 4-0 (like last year when they closed 1-7 SU) and is one of two teams in the PAC-12 (Go figure...educators?) that can’t qualify because of their depleted status. The Broncos know a win here moves them in front of the ‘Group of Five’ from non- qualifying conferences. Take BOISE STATE!  

Illinois at Penn State 7:30 ET

Nittany Lions (-) over Fighting Illini- Ha, the ‘Fighting Illini will get mauled by the Nittany Lions in Beaver Stadium and it isn’t even going to be their famous ‘White Out’ game. But it will be the IIlini who will be waving the white flag of surrender. But, State coach Franklin will have none of it and they will dismantle the invaders. Penn beat Kent last week in a match of States and had a yardage advantage of 718-67. Take PENN STATE!    

Colorado at Central Florida 3:30 ET

Knights (-) over Buffaloes- At first glance I thought that the price was high,h if you wanted the Knights and it is high. All week I’ve been seeing this number and began to believe that our ‘friend’ the bookmakers is not giving us ‘value’. Coach Sanders believes that this game will be a great for recruiting and the trip will help coach ‘Prime’ lure some of those sun loving athletes to give up the surf and beach towels for slopes and ski bunnies. Be careful what you wish for...take CENTRAL FLORIDA!  

Wisconsin at Southern California 3:30 ET

Badgers (+) over Trojans- As week predicted with my September Game of the Year win over USC the Trojans got what we expected on the Big Ten road. Wisconsin who fell gamely to Alabama really had no shot after quarterback Tyler Van Dyke went down in the first quarter he was 5-for-5 before he ended his season. I expect the Badgers (0-3 ATS) to suck it up while USC is heeling their hurts on the beach. Take WISCONSIN!  

Oklahoma at Auburn 3:30 ET

Tigers  (+) over Sooners- Oh Man! I hope that I am not too over anxious with Auburn here as I like them as much as I liked our Game of the Year winner Michigan last week. The Tigers fell to Arkansas last week and on the scoreboard it didn’t even look close. But, if you saw the stats and didn’t know which team was which you would undoubtedly think the Tigers had won. Five turnovers did them in and as far as the disappointing Sooners are concerned their loss to Tennessee showed that they are not one of the elite college football teams. Take AUBURN!   

Virginia Tech at Miami-Fl 7:30 ET

Hokies (+) over Hurricanes- Ya know the first time I knew that a Virginia Tech existed was at Madison Square Garden NIT and it was even before Ralph Samson, if any off you remember him, Well, they were called the Gobblers and still may be (I haven ‘t been to Virginia much of late)  but that’s of no consequence, so don’t shoot me or even at me. Look for decades I hear from the that bunch in South Beach, that the Canes are for ‘real’ they get a QB from Houston and he stinks they finally fire their coach and they play Van Dyke and he gets hurt and then leaves for Wisconsin. How good the Hurricanes, we shall see! Now, it is Cam Ward via Washington State and be might be a good one... but no matter, he gets ‘gobbled-up’! Right now their is a strong hurricane pelting another part of Florida and one hurricane pelting at a time is enough. Take VIRGINIA TECH!

Dallas at New York Giants 8:15 ET

Giants (+) over Cowboys- I profess to people continually that no team is as bad as they might look one week to the next. But the Dallas Cowboys are doing their best to make me a liar. So, I am putting a hex on the Cowboys this week because if there is one team that they have a grip on it is the New York Giants. The Pokes are 9-1 SU and 7-3 ATS in the past 10 meetings and are tied with the Giants at 1-2. The records of these two may be the same but the manner they got it and got here is different. New Play actually tries to play defense where as the ‘cowgirls’ look like they don’t want to hit anybody. No run game, an inaccurate passer and no heart (it appears) and no chance. I believe that even if Dallas manages to put this one out that it will be within the number. Take the points...take NEW YORK FOOTBALL GIANTS!

Jacksonville at Buffalo 7:30 ET

Jaguars (+) over Bills- These two met last season at Buffalo and the price hasn’t changed as the Jaguars won outright 25-20 and also posted a 9-6 ‘W’ in 2021 when the lesser famous Josh Allen had and interception, fumble recovery and a sack on the Bills quarterback Josh Allen. During the off season Jacksonville QB Trevor Lawrence signed a five year extension worth 55 million dollars a year in the off-season. He has yet to show that he is worth it! Tonight he does...take JACKSONVILLE!

Kansas City at Atlanta 8:20 ET

Falcons (+) over Chiefs- The two-time defending Super Bowl Champion Chiefs (2-0) narrowly escaped the Baltimore Ravens on opening night, 27-20, before Harrison Butker's 51-yard field goal with three seconds left saved the day in their one-point win over the Cincinnati Bengals last Sunday. After an anemic offensive showing in an 18-10 home loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 1, the Falcons (1-1) stole a win in Philadelphia on Monday night, using a last-minute touchdown drive to beat the Eagles 22-21. Dirty-birds win again! Take ATLANTA!

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Baltimore at Dallas 4:25 ET

Cowboys over Ravens- For the first time in his career Lamar Jackson who is taking a lot of heat has lost three consecutive games going back to his blowing a fourth quarter lead in the layoffs against Kansas City. Going to a dishevelled Cowboys squad that was roped and tied by New Orleans many give the Ravens more than a puncher's chance of winning. I am just not that keen on backing a team that has their leading running and quarterback one and the same. Dak is 4-12-1 ATS in non-division home games...HA! Take DALLAS!  

Carolina at Las Vegas 4:05 ET

Panthers (+) over Raiders- Is this the end of the road for Bryce Young? Just two games into his sophomore season he is yanked because of not only his 0-2 2024 start but his 2-16 SU two-year record. First year coach David Canales has seen enough and has turned to 34-year old veteran Andy Dalton. Hey how about this, (once again TY to ML Playbook) Dalton is 10-5 SU and 11-4 ATS in starts against the AFC West including 3-0 SU and ATS against the Raiders. Take CAROLINA!  

New York Giants at Cleveland 1:00 ET

Giants (+) over Browns- Sam Huff, Jim Brown, Milt Plum, Bobby Mitchell, YA Title and Frank Gifford...sorry just remensing. Both of these clubs have had better starts Giants (0-2) and always with hope, but the Giants  have no hope and just wish to be decent (fat chance) before the season’s end, while Cleveland is just hoping their will soon be an end to their quarterback situation on and off the field along with the endless of sexual lawsuits. Take NEW YORK GIANTS!

Philadelphia at New Orleans 1:00 ET

Eagles (+) over Saints-  When birds of prey clash the results can damage the loser for weeks as happens between these two. The Eagles are 0-8 ATS in games the following week after a battle with the Falcons. New Orleans returns home and the host is 5-1 ATS in the past six meetings. But I have heard one professional handicapper tell me...‘If this game don’t win...’ and I have heard threats of retirement from betting! This game has to win, it must win or everything he has known and believed up to this point has been a HOAX! Eagles soar...Play PHILADELPHIA!  

Michigan State at Boston College 8:00 ET

Spartans (+) over Eagles- Boston College got off to a fast start last week and led Missouri 14-3 before Auburn knew what hit them. But the Tigers bounced back scoring 24 straight points before the Eagles put enough points on the board for the ATS win. Michigan State is 3-0 under new head coach Jonathan Smith using two quarterbacks Aiden Chiles and Tommy Schuster who came from North Dakota. MSU averages 411.7 YPG and BC 410 YPG but it is on defense that State takes the advantage ranking 14th nationally. Take MICHIGAN STATE!

Tennessee at Oklahoma 7:30 ET

Soonrs (+) over Volunteers- Probably the best match-up of the day is happening when Tennessee (3-0 ATS 3-0) invades Norman Oklahoma to battle the Sooners (3-0, ATS 2-1). The Volunteers are off of a 71-0 beat down of Kent State and have three crushing victories, one against a weak NC State team 51-10. Tennessee has outscored the opposition 191-13 but will find Saturday’s competition a little tougher. the Sooner talent level is always worth a mention and they can play with most anybody anytime...especial a national game at home. Take OKLAHOMA!

Utah at Oklahoma State 4:00 ET

Utes (+) over Cowboys- This is the Big-12 Conference opener for a pair of ranked 3-0 clubs. Upon writing down the opening lines for the week I was surprised to see Utah come up the favorite at Oklahoma State. The Cowboys have one of the nation’s top ranked running backs Ollie Gordon II who ran for 1,732 yards last season but has had personal issues that have slowed him down this year. Cam Rising the Utes QB has enough experience at 25 years old to guide his team to victory. Take UTAH!

Georgia Tech at Louisville 3:30 ET

Cardinals (-) over Yellow Jackets- This game could be my Waterloo! From what I have seen out of the Georgia Tech squad I don’t see how they are getting double-digit points. The Yellow Jackets are off of a 59-7 win over VMI while Louisville has crushed a pair of weak sisters Austin Peay 62-0 and Jacksonville State 49-14. Maybe the price is right but it looks way high to me. Take LOUISVILLE!

Arkansas at Auburn 3:30 ET

Tigers (-) over Razorbacks- At first glance I wanted no part of this match-up as I up until this point had little regard for Auburn (2-1) and I believe that the bookmaker saw it the same way. On the other side I am thinking Arkansas is better than most casual observers might not see. Looking at the series history we will realize that the Tigers have won and ‘covered’ seven of eight meetings. The Razorbacks have trouble throwing the ball and the Tigers will take advantage at home. Take AUBURN!

Southern Cal at Michigan 3:30 ET

Wolverines (+) over Trojans- Southern Cal is making their first trip to Ann Arbor since 1958 when Michigan won a 20-19 slug fest. This time the Trojans invade the defending 2023 National Champions lair a favorite as the Wolverines have been anything but impressive. Opening season a 3-TD choice over Fresno State they fell short before getting man-handled by Texas and then slept-walked 28-18 over Arkansas State. USC was lucky to get by LSU and then swamped Utah State 48-0 with a pair 100-yard rushers. Not so fast this week! The Wolves are allowing only 70 yards a game rushing and will welcome the visitors to the Big House an the Big Ten. Take MICHIGAN!  

Illinois at Nebraska 8:00 ET

Cornhuskers (-) over  Illini- Ya know the past few season’s if there was one team that let me down when they were needed it would Illinois (3-0). This year it appears they are for real...HA! Fooled ya NOT a chance! (there’s always a chance) But, Matt Rhule the Cornhuskers coach has built this team on more than just oats and corn feed, they are no longer one-dimensional. Nebraska is better in every phase of the game and will wear down and punish the Illini front. This is a Power Play if ever! Take NEBRASKA!

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New England at New York Jets 8:15 ET

Jets over Patriots- In the final game of the 2023 season in January the Jets broke a nine game losing streak to New England with a 17-3 win to close the season. In this streak the Jets scored over 14 points just twice but no longer is Bill Belichick around and Aaron Rodgers is! Look for the revised Jets to fly over the ground game of the Pats. Lay-it, take NEW YORK JETS!

Atlanta at Philadelphia 8:15 ET

Falcons (+) over Eagles- Most people believe this one is for the birds and that the Falcons will come into Philadelphia and devoured by the Eagles. The ‘Dirty-birds’ of Atlanta were grounded in the second half last week against Pittsburgh and were shutout after leading at the half 10-9 and eventually lost 18-9. The Eagles (-1.5) soared over Green Bay in the second half after trailing 19-17 at the break and won 34-29. Kirk Cousins Atlanta QB had a shaky debut last week but will bounce back with better performance here. Take ATLANTA!

Pittsburgh at Denver 4:25 ET

Broncos (+) over Steelers- Having ‘loved’ the Steelers all weak I got cold feet and posted them as my FREE NFL winner instead of using them as a Power Play best bet. Pittsburgh of course was an outright winner over Atlanta 18-10 failing to score a TD while kicking six field goals. Pittsburgh lead by Justin Fields gained only 270 yards total offense. Denver will be much better this season as Sean Payton is 3-0 against Pittsburgh and the Broncos are 5-1 at home against the Steelers. Take DENVER!

Cincinnati at Kansas City 4:25 ET

Bengals (+) over Chiefs- The Bengals were the biggest disappointment in the NFL’s opening week as they fell to the lowest rated team in the league. Cincinnati had only 70 yards rushing and 224 total yards. The odd thing here is that Joe Burrow has gotten the best of the Chiefs and Mahomes winning the first three match-ups all by 3-points. The Bengals still believe that they are one of the better clubs in the AFC  and will be ready against the Super Champs. Cincy is 7-3 both SU and ATS in the past 10 meetings. Take CINCINNATI!  

Cardinals (+) over Rams- The Rams should have defeated Detroit in the opener last Sunday night or at least covered the number but blew in overtime after a great effort. Arizona also blew opening week but did manage to get the money after blowing a 17-3  lead. The Cardinals Kyler Murray was 21-of-31 for just 162 yards while Matt Stafford was one of two QB’s that threw for over 300 yards along with Baker Mayfield who cracked the mark. Look for Marvin Harrison Jr. to showcase his talent. Take ARIZONA!

Las Vegas at Baltimore 1:00 ET

Raiders (+) over Ravens- Las Vegas really should have defeated the LA Chargers last week but week coaching decisions and a lack of offensive firepower did them in. On defense the Raiders allowed just 11 First Downs while Gardner Minchew was 25-33 for 225 yards. Baltimore of course was a toe too long and lost to Kansas City 27-20 as Lamar Jackson fell short for the second straight time by seven points against the Chiefs. The Raiders may have trouble scoring but they can play defense and when your QB is your leading rusher is make it all that much easier. Take LAS VEGAS!

L.A. Chargers at Carolina 1:00 ET

Panthers (+) over Chargers- So, Jim Harbaugh’s second NFL debut was a success but I know how bad the Raiders looked last week and their sideline coaching left plenty to be desired which aided the Chargers. The Bolts did not look much better in their 22-10 win but were handed the victory by Las Vegas. The Chargers Justin Herbert threw for just 140 yards and this LA squad managed just 11 first downs and barely had 300 yards in total offense. Carolina who has now taken over the bottom spot in NFL rating replacing New England as the league worst. But, what happened with the NFL’s lowest rated team last week. The Patriots came up with the outright win and I will not be surprised if the Panthers pull off the same kind of victory. It isn’t that I believe the black cats are any better, after all they took the worse loss of week 1 allowing 47 points to the Saints, it’s that I don’t think the Chargers are any good. Take CAROLINA!

Indiana at UCLA 7:30 ET

Hoosiers (-) over Bruins- UCLA is now at their lowest talent level according the oddsmakers in ages to the point that they are an underdog at home against a bottom feeder from the Big Ten. Indiana last played in Pasadena in 1968 and lost in the Rose Bowl to USC and managed to go 3-9 SU last season. Under new head coach Curt Cignetti the Hoosiers have allowed just 10 points against a pair of weak sisters and last week had their largest margin of victory since 1901. UCLA under new coach DeShaun Foster squeaked by Hawaii two weeks ago as the Rainbows had them on the ropes until the final quarter when three field goals overcame a 13-7 deficit. Take INDIANA!

Central Florida at Texas Christian 7:30 ET

Knights (+) over Horned Frogs- Oh, how the mighty have fallen! TCU who played for the National Championship just 18 months ago is now barely favored at home against a foe that was 1-4 on the road in Big-12 action last season. The horny frogs are off their first shutout in seven years and yet are a not even rated a field better at home. TCU QB Josh Hoover has thrown for 620 yards and four touchdowns for the 2-0 club that are barely favored. This number as a close friend and great handicapper said to me...’it don’t make sense.’ I agree Take CENTRAL FLORIDA!

West Virginia at Pittsburgh 3:30 ET

Mountaineers over Panthers- This matchup has been called the “Backyard Brawl” and it is the 107th meeting between the two rivals and the first since Pittsburgh joined the ACC in 2021. The Panthers lead the series 62-41-3 but the Mountaineers have won and covered four of the last five meetings including a year ago in Morgantown where as a 2.5-point favorite winning and covering 17-3 while allowing just 211 yards total offense. Pitt overcame a 24-3 deficit against Cincinnati last Saturday and scored three times in the final period with a field goal with 0:17 remaining. West Virginia bounced back from an opening loss to Penn State where they were totally out-classed by the Nittany Lions 34-12. Opening the favorite on the road is telling...take WEST VIRGINIA!

Washington State at Washington 3:30 ET

Cougars (+) over Huskies- Washington has won 9-of-10 against Washington State including a 24-21 win at home last season as a 14.5-point favorite and have covered just three of the last 10 meetings. The Cougars last won against the Huskies in Washington in 2021 and last year out-gained the Huskies 381-306 in their three-point loss. These are the only members of the PAC-12 that remain which actually makes them the PAC-Two! Educators may be able to read but they can’t count. Count on WASHINGTON STATE!

Boston College at Missouri 12:45 ET

Tigers (-) over Eagles- Not only is Boston College 2-0 under Bill O’Brien but they have scored 94 points in two games while allowing just 13 points which were cored by Florida State. Last Saturday the Eagles flew over Duquesne 56-0 allowing only eight first downs and 135 total yards. BC threw the ball only 13 times and yet had four TD passes and had 569 offensive yards. But, if the Eagle landed the Tigers will have fowl for lunch. Florida State stinks and the Dukes are better off playing basketball. Saturday the Show Me Boys who are Number 6 will ground the Eagles. Take MISSOURI!

Arizona at Kansas State 8:00 ET

K. St. Wildcats (-) over AZ Wildcats- Although both these clubs are now part of the Big-12 this is not a conference meeting as these schools had agreed on this contest before Arizona made the move. Kansas State was fortunate to survive at Tulane last week returning a 60 yard fumble for the winning score after trailing by 10-points at the half. Arizona is 2-0 but have had little competition defeating Northern Arizona and New Mexico, two clubs that are not considered power houses. Take KANSAS STATE!

Arizona State at  Texas State 7:30 ET

Bobcats (+) over Sun Devils- To the surprise of many Arizona State is 2-0 and coming off a win over an SEC team Mississippi State 30-23. With two home games under their belt the Sun Devils take to the road and visit Texas State of the Sun Belt Conference. Texas State is also 2-0 with wins over lesser clubs. ASU ran for 346 yards averaging over six yards per attempt while passing for just 69 yards on 10-of-20. The Bobcats QB Jordan McCloud is 39 of 57 for 547 yards with five touchdown passes and has a rating of 171.4 among the nation’s leaders. McCloud is in his fifth season with experience with South Florida, Arizona and James Madison leading the Dukes to 11 wins with 35 touchdown passes. Take TEXAS STATE!

New York Jets at San Francisco 8:15 ET

49ers (-) over Jets- So, part II of the Aaron Rodgers debut with the New York Jets takes place at the defending NFC champions home field. It only took four plays for Rogers season to end in 2023 and the faithful Jets fans have been chomping at the bit for over a year waiting to see what the former two-time MVP to take the field once again. San Francisco of course will once against depend on a sturdy defense and Christian McCaffery. Take the 49ERS!

LA Rams at Detroit 8:15 ET

Rams (+) over Lions- Detroit is another of the teams that the bookmaker will be forced to

inflate the number because of the public perception of their high powered offense and for good reason. LA on the other hand for some reason (maybe they are not that good) is not believed to be a contender even with Mathew Stafford. The Rams ended the year with a Wild Card loss to...Detroit 24-23 a game LA had 100 more offensive yards. Take LOS ANGELES RAMS!

Las Vegas at L.A. Chargers 4:05 ET

Raiders (+) over Chargers- You can never be sure but I don’t things are going so well with the LA Chargers. I know improvement is expected with Jim Harbaugh taking over as head master with a club that has been nothing but a disappointment to it’s backers.  Most believe that he inherited a prime-time QB in Justin Herbert who has yet to make a winner out of this franchise. They picked of another QB less than a week ago and that to me at this time is a red flag and I wonder how healthy Herbert is as he hasn’t played a down as of yet! Take LAS VEGAS!

Houston at Indianapolis 1:00 ET

Colts (+) over Texans- Houston is going to be one of the public’s darlings to bet. The way they closed the the regular season with impressive wins over Indy and Tennessee and then went on crush Cleveland in the Wild Card game 45-14. The following week they met their Waterloo at Baltimore losing 34-10 gaining only 38 yards rushing and managed just 10 first downs. The Colts want to atone for the final game loss to the Texas a game in which they out-gained Houston but didn’t get it done on the scoreboard. Indy is 5-2-1 SU in the last eight meetings. Take INDIANAPOLIS!

Texas Tech at Washington State 10:00 ET

Red Raiders (+) over Cougars- Texas Tech narrowly survived an overtime two-point conversion attempt by Abilene Christian who had 618 yards of offense including 509 yards passing to escape with a 52-51 victory as a 32-point favorite. Washington State (-26) destroyed Portland State 70-30 scoring 10 touchdowns. WSU QB John Mateer attempted just 11 passing but threw for five TD’s. With the Cougars at home this price is way too short for their own benefit. They will draw too much of the public’s money. Take TEXAS TECH!

Wolfpack (+) over Volunteers- Tennessee scored 11 times against against in state rival Chattanooga winning 69-3 dominating an undermanned club. The Volunteers are rated one of the top teams in the county and they held the Mocs to 10 first downs and just 225 yards of total offense. The Volunteers totaled 718 yards on offense with 414 yards rushes. NC State (-32.5) was a 38-21 winner over Western Carolina  and had to come from behind to win it scoring three fourth quarter touchdowns. The Wolfpack had a balance offense running for 203 yards and passing for 318. The Pack have enough offense to take this a game. Take NORTH CAROLINA STATE!  

Kansas at Illinois 7:00 ET

Illini (+) over Jayhawks- Both these clubs beat up on undermanned opponents as Kansas (-49) romped over Lindenwood 48-3 as the Jayhawks had 331 yards rushing and 530 total yards while allowing just 202 yards. Illinois (-28.5) defeated in state rival Eastern Illinois 45-0 allowing only 49 yards rushing and 186 yards total. The Illini have Bret Bielema with 15 years of head coaching experience leading the clubs and he has improved the Illini record entering his third season. Jayhawks may be a bit over-rated off their previous success but get ambushed today. Take ILLINOIS!  

Iowa State at Iowa 3:30 ET

Cyclones (+) over Hawkeyes- I have to keep reminding myself of what my former partner used to say and that is “Statistics never lie but, they can be very misleading.‘‘ That’s because if you check the results of both these teams opening games you would believe that Iowa who defeated Southern Illinois 40-0 what a huge edge over Iowa State who struggled to beat North Dakota 21-3 in a very deceiving score. The Cyclones managed just 86 yards on the ground and were on the short side of time of possession 38-22. The Hawkeyes have won eight of the past 10 meetings but covered only four times. The last time these to played in Ames (2022) State held the Hawks to 180 total yards in a 10-7 victory. With the opening line being where this game started tells me, we will probably see more of the same. Take IOWA STATE!  

Kansas State at Tulane 12:00 ET

Green Wave over Wildcats- I am surprised that this number is as high as it is as I do have respect for Tulane’s offense. Kansas State should be the favorite without question, but it scares me that the Green Wave haven’t received more respect. The Wildcats (-37) took out Tennessee-Martin 41-6 and their defense was at it’s best holding the Skyhawks to 36 yards rushing and 134 total yards. In the last meeting K.State (-13.5) wins 17-1- as hosts. The Green Wave (-28) had a walk-over victory against Southern Louisiana 52-0. With a balanced offense that ran for 241 and passed for 231 yards. The home side has enough to surprise one of the ‘big boys.’ Take TULANE!

Green Bay vs. Philadelphia 8:15 ET

Packers (+) over Eagles- The moment I saw this match-up I was thinking how strong the Packers finished the 2023 season and how Philadelphia folded losing 6-of-7 while going 0-7 ATS. Green Bay won their last four before losing to San Francisco in the playoffs closing the year 4-0 ATS. So, my thoughts were that the ‘public’ would fade the Eagles in this one. But, I see just the opposite in bunches at a number of spots. So, I have been swayed by speaking with a number of those ‘in the know’ that I respect and they helped me along. So blame them...nah! We win with GREEN BAY!

Brigham Young at Southern Methodist 4:00 ET

Mustangs (-) over Cougars- BYU for years has been a school that has to wait until opening day to realize which conference that they are playing for. Even more confusing for them is which conference are we playing against when SMU plays in the Atlantic Coast from the Southwest Conference or was it the WAC or the C-USA and even last season in the AAC. BYU was in the West Coast Conference last season and before that it was the WAC and MWC. But, were these moving made out of strength or weakness? For the Mustangs it was strength and for the Cougars it was weakness. Take SMU!

Baltimore at Kansas City 8:15 ET

Chiefs (-) over Ravens- The spread number on this game has pretty much remained at Kansas City -3 no moving more than a half-point either way since the first week of preseason action. The total is a different story starting at 49.5 and getting pounded down to 46.5. The last time these two met it was for the AFC Championship in KC with the Ravens a small favorite on January 28. Holmes was brilliant while Jackson did not have one of his better days managing just one score getting shut down the final three quarters. The odds are behind the underdogs in the Thursday night NFL openers and Super Bowl defenders (2X) also struggle in this spot. The Chiefs have won five of the past six meetings SU and are 5-3 ATS in last eight meetings overall. Take KANSAS CITY!

Boston College at Florida State 7:00 ET

Seminoles (-) over Eagles- Believe it or not taking Florida State here has nothing to do with the fact that they have a game under their belts and a loss to boot. Jut to let you know teams that have played a game are 6-12 ATS in the lat 18 meetings against a team in their opener. Last year the Seminoles as a 27.5-point favorite had to withstand a late rally where BC scored the final three touchdowns and had the tribesmen on the ropes. I really don’t think much of FSU’s 35-time (3-time really Clemson and Oregon State) NIL transfer QB DJ Uiagalelei who in his fifth year of college football still doesn’t know how to win. zero TD’s last week against Georgia Tech with just seven yards rushing. But, the Eagles have a major flaw and it is coaching! The biggest hoax in coach has been the way the ‘good old boy system’ takes care of those that fail time after time...ergo Bill O’Brien. Take FLORIDA STATE!

Louisiana State vs Southern California 4:30 ET

Trojans (+) over Tigers- Think of what these two teams lost to attrition as starting quarterbacks for both are gone and it isn’t like they were just any QBs. They were the first two picks in the draft the Heisman winner Jayden Daniels of LSU and the No. 1 overall draft selection Caleb Williams of USC. So most would think first of who is replacing these impact players. But, more important is who is left behind and still running the show. For the Tigers  Brian Kelly leads the corps and the Trojans have Lincoln Riley. Although, Riley has had three No.1 draft picks without a National Championship appearance he still rates an edge over his ‘Striped’ counterpart. Take SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA!

Fresno State at Michigan 7:30 ET

Wolverines (-) over Bulldogs- Well, this is the lowest I have ever seen the defending College football National Champion ever ranked the following season. I am just wonder how the media has lost respect for Michigan. Granted they lost huge load of talent and even their head coach but they are still Michigan! Fresno State can always surprise you as they have solid coaching and seen to get the untapped talent the bigger California school overlooked. But, like the Wolves these Bulldogs will have a new mentor in Tom Skipper who takes over a team that is 29-11 SU with past three seasons. This Mountain West club can preform well against the big boys but to start the year here is a lot to ask as the Wolverines will out muscle and wear down the smaller Bulldogs. Take MICHIGAN!

Notre Dame at Texas A&M 7:30 ET

Aggies (-) over Fighting Irish- Tough call and I do not like laying points at all here and if I kind a decent money line price I would rather do that then have the winning side SU and get caught in the ‘gaff’ (a win without covering). Both of these clubs have one thing in common and that is if the win the yardage battle the win the game. Texas A&M  has gone 11-0 SU the past 11 years in their home openers while Notre Dame is 7-1 in season openers when an underdog. I expect both teams to grind it out but the Irish have the big name NIL Duke transfer in Riley Leonard who admits he never expect to hear from Notre Dame when he entered his name in the portal. Take TEXAS A&M!

UNLV at Houston 7:00 ET

Rebels (+) over Cougars- The question here is...what has happened to these two schools football programs? I recall Houston being a powerful club that would contend for a bowl bit, but things change as last season they were 4-8 where as in 2021 they were 12-2 and ranked as high as No.15. Now, they are barely favored at home against what is now an upstart program in UNLV. Rebels on  9-4 ATS run while the underdog in the last 24 decisions is 18-6 ATS.  Take UNLV!

Florida Atlantic and Michigan State 7:00 ET

Owls (+) over Spartans- For the most part when the Big Ten (18 teams) plays a school of FAU’s stature they are usually a three touchdown favorite but Michigan State has had issues of late. They cut their losses my removing Mel Tucker from the coaching job and that should help a club that is in the lower half of the conference. Florida Atlantic has gone to Tom Herman and in his second season after going just 4-8 he brought in NIL quarterbacks to upgrade the most important of positions. Last season the Owls were defeated by their Big ten opponent Illinois 23-17. Once again they keep it close. Take FLORIDA ATLANTIC!

San Francisco versus Kansas City 6:30 ET

49ers over Chiefs- When it comes to Super Bowls for the most part the public will side with the established or considered better quarterback. There is no question that Patrick Mahomes gets the nod over Brock Purdy. But, it is a fact the Brock Purdy led all NFL quarterbacks in efficiency and actually had more TD’s and passing yards than Mahomes and averaged 9.6 yards per pass attempt while Patrick average just 7.0 yards per pass attempt. The Niners have yet to covered in the post season and still come up the favorite but maybe not by game time. I prefer to lay a small money line price. Take SAN FRANCISCO!

Detroit at San Francisco 6:30 ET

49ers (-) over Lions- The party’s over...turn out the lights sweet darling. It was a nice run and a good season for Detroit but there will be no Androcles around to remove the thorns that the Niners will inflict on their person. Although Jared Goff has been to this game before and even to the Super Bowl it will not be enough. For the rest of their crew playing in the championship game is fresh and new and when they realize where they are things play out differently. I’ve heard a lot of how the Lions are weak on the rod, well I don’t see it as they were 6-3 SU and 7-2 ATS not too shabby. But, the Lions to a man went over the top with their celebration after defeating Tampa Bay who was pretty much accepted as the worst team to make the playoffs even less regarded than Green Bay the final seed. San Francisco is making their third straight championship game appearance while the Lions their first since 1957. Niners averaged 140 YPG rushing five more yards than Detroit and they held opponents to 89.7 YPG rushing and Shanahan is 2-0 lifetime against the Lions. Brock Purdy struggled in the rain last week but will return to form here. Take SAN FRANCISCO!

AFC Championship

Kansas City at Baltimore 3:00 ET

Chiefs (+-) over Ravens- This should be an encounter worth watching as the Chefs enter their sixth straight AFC Championship game and Baltimore has a chance for the first time since 2012. MVP’s abound as QB Patrick Mahomes has two MVP and Super Bowl rings and Lamar Jackson has one MVP and most likely a second this season. These two great quarterbacks have met four times with Mahomes & co. winning three. The Ravens led the NFL in scoring defense allowing just 16.5 PPG. and Mahomes number have dropped this season from last in passing yards 5,250 to 4183 and in TD passes from 41 to 27 and he had a career high with 14 interceptions. I’ have been reminded all week of Mahomes fantastic record as an underdog (9-1-1 ATS) and of Jackson’s short-comings. Too much overload for me...rake BALTIMORE!

Kansas City at Buffalo 6:30 ET

Chiefs (+) over Bills- It was week 12 and not many people were going the Bills much of shot to winning the Super Bowl or even the AFC East title. Buffalo had just blown a 17-7 half-time lead to Philadelphia in overtime 37-34 dropping Buffalo to 6-6 trailing Miami by two-and-a-half games. Week 13 they had a bye and regrouped and returned to action in Week 14 and defeated the Chiefs in Kansas City 20-17. The Bills haven’t lost since winning their final five regular season games capturing the AFC East by defeating Miami the final day and won their Wild Card game last week against Pittsburgh. Opening a favorite under three leads me to believe they may struggle here. Patrick Mahomes has never played in road playoff game but he is incredible as an underdog going 11-1 ATS with eight outright wins. Take KANSAS CITY!

Tampa Bay at Detroit 3:00 ET

Buccaneers (+) over Lions-  You have to admit Tampa Bay is the least likely of the remaining contenders to make it t the Super Bowl. With that being stated it should understood that they will have the most money bet against them especially in Detroit where the ‘Public choice’ Lions dominate (7-2) opponents. Last week my lone Megabucks playoff gaff was when I backed them and a back door score & cover by the Rams (all part of the game) made Monday’s sweep so vital. The Buccaneers were really aggressive offensively as our Megabucks winner Monday pushing Philadelphia around. Baker Mayfield (337 YP) was his usual self and the Buc’s managed to win with defense taking the ball away. If there is any pressure it is on the Lions as the Buccaneers are meshing together a they are as healthy as they have been all season. Take TAMPA BAY!

Green Bay at San Francisco 8:15 ET

49ers (-) over Packers- Who needs Aaron Rodgers...the Packers will find out Saturday night as their Love-in ends. Before I start how good Green Bay and Jordan Love looked against Dallas last week. Good enough for many to believe the Packers have a shot on the money line this week, a thought that never came to mind last week and certainly not here. Remember, that they were playing the Cowboys and they ambushed the cowpokes in their own back yard. Not about to happen this week as the Niners are as healthy as they have been all year and they will not take Love lightly after what we all saw last week. Take SAN FRANCISCO!

Houston at Baltimore 4:30 ET

Ravens (-) over Texans- Baltimore got a good study at a team that won just three of 17 games last season when Houston took down Cleveland. Rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud looks like anything but a a raw first timer in the payoffs but it is. Baltimore has what should be the league’s MVP in Lamar Jackson who is healthy and rested for the Texans who have taken it to the road where they were 4-4. One of those losses was a week 1 loss at Baltimore in Stroud’s first NFL start a 25-9 defeat when he threw for 242 yards on 28-of-44 passing. The Ravens had five sacks that day and although the Texans have improved the Ravens are just better and ready to tell them never more!

Take BALTIMORE!

Philadelphia at Tampa Bay 8:15 ET

Buccaneers (+) over Eagles- The once high flying Eagles who at 10-1 had already clinched a playoff spot have been grounded for six weeks losing five times. They only defeated the pitiful Giants (who beat them on the final day of the season) and are 0-6-1 ATS in their last seven games overall. I didn’t expect mush out of Philadelphia after they clinched but I never really thought that they would tank this what I saw put of Jalen Hurts was a slower banged of version of the last year’s NFC Champions. Truth be told, I was fully accepting the losses and was looking forward to playing on them when the playoffs began (not even thinking of what the match-up or line would be). Now, Tampa Bay is probably the least respected team in the playoffs even if they won their division and are hosting a wild card game. These two met in Florida week #3 with the visitor winning 25-11 as Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield was inconsistent as he is prone to be. One of the surprising stats that I came across is that the Philly defense is surrendering 357 YPG and is ranked No. 26 (Not what I expected). What troubles me here is that there must be so many more people that were having the same thoughts as the Eagles backers would rather fade the Buc’s. I will take the points here and see if my side can keep it within 3-points. Take TAMPA BAY!

Pittsburgh at Buffalo 4:30 ET

Bills (-) over Steelers- Okay, not for nuthin’ but the total opened 41.5 and was crushed down immediately down to 34.5 and as of Sunday evening was at 33. So, I guess the weather is going to be a factor with the game having to be moved and all and with that understood many feel that taking a plus 10-points would be the way to go as it is not expected for either team to put on an offensive show. Hell, the Steelers can’t do it under perfect conditions and now with this I don’t think they’ll score at all. I don’t see Pittsburgh getting into the end zone more than once, if that! The Bills who have won four straight to capture the AFC East title are coming in under the radar at a time when they happen to be playing their best right now the long NFL season. There is only one way to go for me...take BUFFALO!

Los Angeles Rams at Detroit 8:15 ET

Lions (-) over Rams- Story lines abound this match-up between the Rams and Lions as they two clubs will reunite a battle between two quarterbacks that were virtually swapped for each other. Matthew Stafford went from Detroit to Los Angeles and won a Super Bowl while Goff was banished to the Lions form LA and after early struggles lead his club to their first division title since before dirt. The rams have won seven of their last eight games and  maybe that is why this line is as low as it is as I expected the NCF North Champ to garner more resect. But, maybe they aren’t supposed to have it as the general public is backing the Rams and driving the price even lower. Goff threw for 4,575 yards and 30 TD passes and is looking to prove Sean McVay made a mistake jettisoning him to Detroit (difficult to do as the Rams won it all with Stafford leading the way). Way too much support for LA while the Lions will roar once again at home. Take DETROIT!

Miami at Kansas City 8:15 ET

Dolphins/Chiefs- OVER- This is unsettling to actually take Miami, the Miami Dolphins whose quarterbacks has never play a game with the temperature below 40 degrees. From Hawaii and having played his college career at Alabama and now playing in Southern Florida Tua Tagovailoa reaction to the Kansas city cold is open to discussion. Most do not believe that the Dolphins can meet the challenge of playing a team with a winning record on the road and overcoming the stigma put on them. I recall last January Miami traveled to Buffalo without Tau in snowy and frigid conditions and gave the Bills all that they could handle. This contest does pit the Fins No. 1 offense 401.3 YPG against the Chiefs No. 2 defense allowing 289.9 YPG. The fact that everything actually points to Kansas City as they rested almost all last week against the hapless chargers while Miami was getting beat up by Buffalo and enter limping onto this fray. Okay here’s the rub with these conditions and all the things that I mentioned the total is way high and is inviting ‘Under’ action and they are getting it. The anti-Christ at work...PLAY OVER!

Cleveland at Houston 4:30 ET

Texans (+) over Browns- So what was the biggest difference between the Houston team that  had the least amount of wins last year and the club that is hosting an NFL Wild Card game. My first thoughts run to coaching and DeMeco Ryans and the job he has done or is it the decision to draft CJ Stroud (who they say they would have selected even if Bryce Young was available). Coaching in football has the most impact of any sport and having a quarterback rookie or not that has made it through the season with just five interceptions ,23 TD passes and over 4,000 passing yards. Stroud’s numbers surpass the rookie seasons of most Hall of Fame QB’s and that being known, it is also known that rookie quarterbacks starting their first NFL Playoff game is not a good investment and they are in a fade position. The Cleveland has won four in-a-row and have settled on their QB following a scenario of five different quarterbacks reaching for out to the retired and former Super Bowl winner Joe Flacco who has 15 post-season starts. Browns are 4-1 behind Joe although he has already thrown eight picks but the No. 1 defense has bailed themselves out. Not today. Take HOUSTON!

Washington and Michigan 8:01 ET

Wolverines (-) over Huskies- I hate to do it I really do and it has nothing to do with a bias walking in. To start with I have professed the entire second half of the season that Washington had the best offensive line for pass protection in the country. I believe that have shown that not only when Penix passed 42 times against the No. 5 defense in the nation (Oregon) in the Pac-12 championship and he was not sacked once and was never pressured and we saw the same protection against Texas. Michigan has been a powerhouse all season and many said that it was their schedule as they pretty much shut down the SEC defeating the Crimson Tide, but they were not very impressive doing it. The Wolves QB McCarthy caught a number of breaks off the top and had a shaky start before putting together a final drive. Okay, before the playoffs began I was touting the Huskies at 7-1 to win it all and when I first saw an opening number of Michigan -4.5 my immediate reaction was ‘Washington is going to win it all.’ Now, remember that was just moments after the Huskies victory and that image was fresh in my mind. Later that evening as I was digesting my Game of the Year winner Michigan (7-1 GOY) I realized how good the Huskies looked and how fortunate the Wolverines were to not only win but over as well. As I was receiving phone calls continuously after the game and before my head hit the pillow I realized that I kept thinking that Washington is not a hard bet to make. They are 14-0 have won every day outright when an underdog and dominated a championship and playoff game and they are getting points. It just didn't set right and I expected money on the dog to show. At first a trickle and then the pace picked and now I believe that so many believe it is easier to take the points in this match-up than it is to lay it after what we saw last. I don't know how and rarely predict scores as all I care is to win be it 7-6 or 44-0 just win. Take MICHIGAN!

Chicago at Green Bay 4:25 ET

Bears (+) over Packers- Win and you are in...that is the what the Packers know, nothing else matters, win and you are in. Well, it ain’t that easy. Green Bay has won five of seven and are in the same position as last season only needing a win over Detroit to gain a playoff berth and the Lions ate them and Aaron Rodgers up. Chicago has won four-of-five games and are 0-5 against the Packers when Justin Fields starts. But, the pressure is on the Pack although have the No. 1 pick Fields might be feeling it as well, but a different kind of pressure. He gets his first win as at starter against Green Bay. Take CHICAGO!  

Kansas City at LA Chargers 4:25 ET

Chargers (-) over Chiefs- We are all aware that the Chiefs will be looking to heel some of the walking wounded this week but the question is are the Chargers able to take advantage of the skeleton crew Kansas City puts out on the field. The defending champs are locked into the No. 3 seed win or lose and will be very conservative while LA will be without QB Herbert but trying to end on a positive note after sour season. With one team cares and the other is just going though the motions there is only one side to play...take LA CHARGERS!  

Atlanta at New Orleans 1:00 ET

Falcons (+) over Saints- Both of these clubs are so lucky to be paying in the NFL’s weakest division and even below .500 a team still can win the title. Atlanta and New Orleans need a win but no matter who wins they need Tampa Bay to lose to Carolina. The Saints can claim a wild card spot with a scenario of other teams losses. New Orleans kept alive last week defeating Tampa Bay (blew their chance to clinch) probably playing their best overall game of the season. At the same time Atalanta was a no-show against the Bears. I expect both of them to come toward the center and the over-rated Saints to fall. Take ATLANTA!  

New York Jets at New England 1:00 ET

Jets (+) over Patriots- This might be silly as I have to believe that I am like oh-for-300 when dealing with these two bottom feeders who are lucky enough to play each other so that one of them will most likely post a victory. Well, that is of course if you are the Patriots. New England under Bill Belichick has had a mastery over the Jets winning the last 15 meetings and 19 of 20 with the lone defeat coming in overtime. Even when New York outplayed the Patriots they would always find a way to lose the game just like their first meeting this season. Wilson is out for the Jets and yet with the history and playing at home the odds makers believe that Jets have a chance with Siemian at QB against anybody the Pats throw at them. Jets off one of the worst performances and efforts put out against Cleveland last week and if they have any sort of pride as professionals they will come out play to close the season with a win and a better taste in their mouths off one of the most disappointing and nightmarish seasons. Take NEW YORK JETS!

Cleveland at CincinnatI 1:00 ET

Bengals (-) over Browns- Cleveland has quite a year from signing quarterbacks for outrageous sums and have a QB with experience and  Super Bowl ring and was on a couch a month ago. Well, Flacco will be sitting once again and the Browns will send out their fifth different starting QB in Jeff Driskel and I expect a slew of other to see very little playing time. The Bengals have a number of players with contact incentives and despite last weeks disappointment will be up for the 101st Battle of Ohio. The Bengals are 52-48 and were pounded in the opener but will get even here as the Browns look toward their wild card stint net week. We are laying way too much but I do not believe it will make a difference. Take CINCINNATI!

Houston at Indianapolis 8:00 ET

Colts (+) over Texans- This encounter has so many variables that it is difficult to sort out what is relevant and what is not. The first and most important factor is that who ever wins here is guaranteed a Wild Card spot in the NFL post-season and the winner could capture the NFL South and wrap up a home game if Jacksonville losses to Carolina. (without Lawrence the Jaguars just -3 on the road). Houston has a slew of injuries to key personnel as sack lead Greenard is out along with their starting tight end and six other starters are with out or questionable. Yet, as long as CJ Stroud is starting at quarterback for the Texans the public will be backing them. In last year’s finale Houston gave away the Number 1 pick by converting a two-point conversion on the games final play to win by 1-point over who?...here it comes...the Colts. This time around even that isn’t good enough. Take INDIANAPOLIS!

Pittsburgh at Baltimore 4:15 ET

Ravens (+) over Steelers- Baltimore has clinched the top spot in the playoffs and will have the home field advantage throughout win or lose here. Now, no one expects Lamar Jackson to see any action and with Pittsburgh moving to such a strong favorite many believe that the Ravens will lay down. Let me say this, the Ravens may get beat here not playing their best players but they will not lay down and no matter who is in uniform for the Ravens they will come to play..that is Harbaugh’s mantra. Bitter rivals the Steelers have won six of seven meeting with all games winning margins less than a touchdown. Although they will not lay down Baltimore will be without six starters while the Steelers will be all out every play but are they good enough. Take BALTIMORE!

Texas vs Washington 8:00 ET

Longhorns (-) over Huskies- Undefeated (13-0) Washington has done everything you could possibility ask of a football team during a perfect season. Deemed underdogs three time during the year they rose to the occasion each time beating Oregon twice as underdogs and at Oregon State. Texas who is favored here was an underdog once, to Alabama, the win that put them into the FBS Final Four.  The Huskies have the nation’s No. 1 passing attack and No. 10 total offense averaging 344 YPG with Michael Penix leading the way. Texas moves the ball even better having the No. 9 offense with better balance. Now, here we go with The Longhorns being the lowest ranked team team in the Finals and they are favored over the No. 1 seed...that smells. I am and you should wait as long as you can and get the best price laying...TEXAS!

Alabama vs Michigan 5:00 ET

Wolverines over Crimson Tide- As far as I am concerned this ended up as the perfect match-up between two teams with similar styles. These two should slug it out for awhile and totals players will probably see it just one way. Michigan of course overpowered most of their opponents in what is considered a weaker Big Ten. Alabama meanwhile struggled but managed to clean their plate with a win over Georgia for the SEC championship after a miracle Hail-Mary that was answer against Auburn on a fourth and goal from the 29 yard line with 30 second to go. We had Alabama as our Conference Game of the Year winner over Georgia and are so looking forward to see this ‘Bama impostor go down hard here. Saban did an incredible job getting the Tide here but they are just not of the same cloth as their other champions. Take MICHIGAN!

Liberty vs Oregon 1:00 ET

Ducks (-) over Flames- Okay let me see...hum, we have an undefeated club that would be Liberty (13-0) who is receiving a ton of points to a club many thought would be in the FBS Final-4. A pair of 3-point losses to Washington did the Ducks in and now in the Bo Nix showcase finale they will show the offense that we saw all season. Liberty has the No. 3 offense in thee nation and average 515 yards a game with 303 of it coming on th ground. This is where the Flames meet their Waterloo as the Ducks defense is No. 5 in rushing defense allowing just 3.4 yards per attempt. This David versus Goliath battle can only end one way and their is no stone or sling shot around to slay this offensive giant. Take OREGON!

Iowa vs Tennessee 1:00 ET

Hawkeyes (+) over Volunteers- To start with I’m thinking that the No. 17 team in the country that would be Iowa is about a touchdown underdog against the No. 21 ranked club that being Tennessee seems a bit disconcerting. After all the Volunteers have gone 5-0 against the Big Ten in their last five meetings. The Haweyes have the worst offense in modern college football history and total a meek 240 YPG and still managed 10 wins. That is truly a testament to their coaching their defense held three of the last four opponents to their season low in total yards and they were shut out in the Big Ten Championship game. This to me is a vital point as a team entering a bowl game after having been shutout in their final game come out and play an aggressive game. Hawkeyes more respectful of their SEC opponent than the Vols will show against the Big Ten. Take IOWA!

Wisconsin vs LSU 12:00 ET

Badgers (+) over Tigers- Once again Wisconsin would have the most drab, unimaginative and boring offense in the nation if it wasn’t for Iowa. The Badgers meager offense scores 22 PPG ranking them in the 2nd group of 100. LSU is anther story as they ended up the highest scoring team in FBS action averaging 46.4 PPG and are No. 1 in total yards 548 and yards per play 8.5. The Tigers also tout this year’s Heisman Trophy winner Jayden Daniels who’s impact on the game can not b denied and he like so many others has passed on this game in order to play with his pud. I am looking to fade the Tigers off last year’s bowl win over Purdue when as a 21-point favorite the destroyed a hapless and undermanned Purdue team and showed no mercy at any all winning the Citrus Bowl 63-7. Brian Kelly is 1-7 ATS as a bowl favorite of 7 or more points (ML Playbook) so despite the Badgers weak offense they will get the money. Take WISCONSIN!

Green Bay at Minnesota 8:20 ET

Packers (+) over Vikings- These two 7-8 clubs are in a virtual elimination game as the loser will be out (maybe 2-4% chance) of the hunt while the winner gets to a 50/50 chance to move on. Last week Green Bay was in command with entire game but allowed a pair of late touchdowns by Carolina giving them a back-door cover 33-30. Last Saturday at home Minnesota blew a third quarter led to Detroit and never really in it once the fourth quarter started. Team seem headed in different directions but fortunes change...take MINNESOTA!  

Las Vegas at Indianapolis 1:00 ET

Colts (-) over Raiders- I got this from a guy who says he knows a guy, who knows a guy who said the Colts are going to win...so here we are. Nah, it is a matter of numbers and Las Vegas is full of numbers and odds and they are usually not in your favor. The Raiders are still in the AFC playoff hunt after their Christmas Day upset win at Kansas City (their 1st in over 10 years there) and are 4-3 under interim coach Antonio Pierce. Right now Indianapolis holds the final wild card spot and could put the Raiders fans out of their misery with a win here. After scoring on their first drive of the day in Atlanta last week the Colts were corralled for the remainder of the game and held to a mere field goal. Vegas’ Josh Jacobs is out along with tight end Michael Mayers and a pair of starting offensive lineman are down as well. Rookie Aidan O’Connell doesn’t have enough game experience to overcome those holes. Take INDIANAPOLIS!

Atlanta at Chicago 1:00 ET

Falcons (+) over Bears- last week I used the Falcons as my Major Shocker winner and they to care of business against the visiting Colts. I thought that after that performance Atlanta might attract more attention but the general public seems a bit  enamored by the Bears. Maybe it’s the Midway Magic but Chicago who has won three of the last four games has garnered some respect not only from bookmakers but from the ‘players’ alike (gamblers) as well. Chicago has less than a 1% chance to make the playoff and with a high draft pick expected there is added pressure on the inaccurate Justin Fields. He has legs but the Falcons have bigger and strong guys to run the ball and they will. Tylor Heinicke does it again...take ATLANTA!

Miami at Baltimore 1:00 ET

Dolphins (+) over Ravens- First thoughts about this match-up was that the Ravens are coming off a huge win as our Prime-time Megabucks winner and i want to fade them this week. Unfortunately, we can’t have everything and although I don’t mind their opponent being Miami who has to travels north. But they are here after winning a big game of their own defeating Dallas 22-20. So, like Baltimore the Dolphins may not be at their emotional peak but they are pros and both clubs are fighting for a home field advantage which the Ravens possess right now. The Dolphins have won the past two meetings in each of the last two years with Tua at the helm.Take MIAMIo

Los Angeles Rams at New York Giants 1:00 ET

Giants (+) over Rams- Well, Tommy ‘Cutlets’ DeVito’s 15-minutes are up and the Jersey native can always say what was but from here on out he will on the sidelines (if that). The Giants, one of the two disasters that have been playing professional football in New York this year have not quit on the season. Unlike their AFC rival the New York Jets and they are reviving QB Tyrod Taylor who I liken to Geno Smith. Taylor who started at QB in the 2010 Orange Bowl opposite Andrew Luck, has a Super Bowl ring (Baltimore), a Pro Bowl appearance and 13 years under his belt. He was very inconsistent in his early years but has been around long enough to mature into the quarterbacking position and can still be ‘electric’ creating explosive plays. The Giants have not quit and can pull the outright upset win (always take the points) over the Rams. The Rams have been overachievers this season and and have finally caught the eye of the public and it will catch up to them here. Take NEW YORK GIANTS!

New Orleans at Tampa Bay 1:00 ET

Saints (+) over Buccaneers- I’m hearing quarterback Baker Mayfield has been outstanding controlling the ball and has grown into the position after a number of disappointments. In his sixth season and with his fourth team in the last three years, he currently has the highest QB rating of his career at 96.7 and the Bucs have won four in-a-row. New Orleans is still live in the division but only with a win here and they were defeated soundly by Tampa Bay 26-9 in the Superdome and are looking to extract a turn about here. Saints defense up to the ask as Mayfield under pressure reverts back to form. Take NEW ORLEANS!

Detroit at Dallas 8:15 ET

Cowboys (-) over Lions- There are a couple of key factors that I must consider when viewing this contest. To start although Detroit still has motivation to gain home field and the No. 1 seed they should still be hung-over from celebrating the clinching of the NFC North Division title for the first time in 30 years. Meanwhile, Dallas needs a win in the worst way after getting thumped by Buffalo 31-10 and then last week blew every opportunity to win and finally could not make a stop against Miami in a 22-20 loss. The Cowboys have dominated all opponents at home scoring over 30 points in all seven wins going 6-1 ATS. Take DALLAS!   

Auburn at Maryland 11:00 ET

Terrapins (+) over Tigers- This was one of the first games that I gravitated toward and that was because the line opened Auburn minus-2.5 and I thought the line was short and was looking forward to a Maryland outright upset win. But, as they say in the Crescent City ‘shit happens’ and it did here. The Terrapins were 7-5 and led by Taulia Tagovailoa (yeah little brother) set Maryland and Big Ten records for passing and they still lost five times. The Tigers of course closed their season 30 seconds too late otherwise would have defeated rival Alabama and probably be playing New Year’s Day. As it is they are now close to a TD favorite. But, the Auburn offense which was limited to start with be without three defensive starters and a total of six offensive backs and receivers opt out. Take MARYLAND!

Mississippi vs. Penn State 12:00 ET

Nittany Lions (-) over Rebels- Can you imagine they still allow Mississippi to refer to themselves a s Rebels (that will change). Both of these clubs suffered just two losses and they were when they played top ranked teams. Penn State fell to Michigan and Ohio State while Mississippi succumbed to Alabama and Georgia each losing to a team in the FBS Final-4 and the last two they didn’t get there. Six Nittany Lions players have declared for the NFL draft but will play will All-Big Ten Defensive end Chop Robinson did opt out. The Rebels also had only one player opt out and he also is a defensive end Cedric Johnson. Mississippi has the 15th ranked offense averaging 455 YPG while The Lions have the No. 1 overall defense allowing just 223 YPG and with a win here they will become the first school to have won all six New Year’s Day Bowl games. Take PENN STATE!

Missouri vs Ohio State 8:00 ET

Tigers (+) over Buckeyes- This game has been all over the place with Ohio State opening at minus-6.5 and moving to the dog at as high as plus +3.5. Rumors of he is and who is not paying have settled down and the line returned to where it should have been the entire time. Missouri (10-2) expects a full roster and appear to be motivated more than the Buckeyes. After getting bounced out of the FBS Championship contention OSU lost their quarterback to the transfer portal (Syracuse of all places) and lost all incentive. If it is a matter of motivation the game belongs to the Tigers. Take MISSOURI!

Iowa State vs Memphis 3:30 ET

Cyclones (-) over Tigers- There is ‘something reeeally, really wrong here’ as Al Pacino would say. As we can’t figure how a team that won nine games is playing at home and have had a season with unbelievable production. Okay, Iowa State did play tougher competition but still they were just 7-5 losing to the likes of MAC Ohio. Look at the seasonal stats one would think that they have listed the wrong team the favorite as Memphis was No. 7 in scoring and averaged 39.7 PPG while The Cyclones were at No. 75 scoring 26.2 PPG. With Memphis playing at home and scoring as they do (40 per) it makes absolutely no sense to get points at home. If Carmine or Mario bet the Cyclones today (I believe they will) they will storm Memphis.

Take IOWA STATE!