Date | Match Up | Rating | Score | Result | Profit | Lead Time | Analysis |
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03-05-21 | Capitals v. Bruins -132 | Top | 1-5 | Win | 100 | 10 h 53 m | Show |
Game of the Week - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NHL Rotation #62 Friday 10* Top Play Boston Bruins Money Line (-) vs Washington Capitals @ 7:05 ET - As I mentioned in my write-up on this match-up Wednesday, this is a huge battle between two of the top teams in the East Division standings. Even though the Caps are in the top spot they have played two more games than Boston. Also, the Capitals entered Wednesday's game having lost 4 of 9 road games. Note that the Bruins entered that game having lost just 1 of 6 home games so far this season. Even though the teams had split their first two games this season, Boston had outshot Washington by a combined margin of 76 to 49 in those two meetings and both those games were at DC. The Bruins, on home ice, are absolutely worth the price here as they now have revenge too. Give the Capitals credit for Wednesday's win as it was a deserved win and they outshot them but still that was a game that the Bruins never trailed in and then lost in the shootout. The home team came out a little sluggish in Wednesday's game and yet still never trailed the entire way and they certainly are unlikely to start slow in this one. Look for another physical, playoff-type game here but the determined Bruins will not be denied here. 10* BOSTON |
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03-05-21 | Duquesne v. St Bonaventure OVER 130 | Top | 59-75 | Win | 100 | 3 h 51 m | Show |
Earliest Dominator - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach CBB Rotation #859 Friday 10* Top Play OVER the total in St Bonaventure Bonnies vs Duquesne Dukes @ 11 AM ET - Long-time followers know I like contrarian plays. This total certainly fits the bill in that regard. Duquesne got a low-scoring win over Richmond yesterday to advance to this game. That one stayed under the total. St Bonaventure also is off a low-scoring game and it was a very ugly 55-52 loss to Dayton. That is going to bring out the best in the Bonnies here. Keep in mind the two regular season meetings between these teams averaged just 118 points totaled per game yet the odds makers opened this up at 131. Of course the total dropped from its opener. In typical contrarian fashion, I am going against the markets here. Note that the Bonnies entered their game against the Flyers off an 88-point outburst. Also note that Duquesne has averaged scoring 76 points per game their last 7 games. 10* OVER the total in St Bonaventure |
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03-04-21 | Panthers -130 v. Predators | Top | 5-4 | Win | 100 | 8 h 26 m | Show |
Situational Slaughter - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NHL Rotation #29 Thursday 10* Top Play Florida Panthers Money Line (-) @ Nashville Predators @ 8:05 ET - The Predators are off an ugly loss vs Carolina. The Preds did not look good in that game and this is a team that is now 7-1 combined against Columbus and Chicago but has lost 11 of 14 against the rest of the division. This includes Nashville losing 7 of 8 against the upper tier teams in the division like Carolina, Florida, and Tampa Bay. Now the Panthers are in town and angry and this one, as a result, certainly does not set up well for the Predators. Florida is off back to back losses this season for the first time this season and one came in the shootout and one came in overtime. This was after the Panthers had gone a perfect 6-0 this season when off a loss. Also, Florida did lose their most recent road game but entered that contest 5-1 this season as travelers. All signs point to a very motivated Panthers team taking the ice in this one and I will gladly lay the short road price here. 10* FLORIDA |
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03-04-21 | Flyers -121 v. Penguins | Top | 4-3 | Win | 100 | 8 h 51 m | Show |
Earliest Cash - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NHL Rotation #21 Thursday 10* Top Play Philadelphia Flyers Money Line (-) vs Pittsburgh Penguins @ 7:05 ET - Though it didn't pan out for them Tuesday, the fact is that the Flyers are getting healthier again and getting back in a rhythm as guys have come back and now they even have Travis Konecny back too! The Penguins have a solid record this season but have arguably been the most fortunate team in the league. Pittsburgh has 12 wins this season but only 5 have come in regulation. The Penguins have 9 losses this season and 8 of them have come in regulation. So what that means is that the Pens are 7-1 in games decided after regulation but just 5-8 in games decided in the first 60 minutes. That includes back to back blowout losses to the Flyers when these teams met earlier this season. The Bruins are one of the best teams in the league. What does that have to do with this play. Well, Philly has lost all 5 meetings with Boston but has won 11 of 14 against the rest of the league! Off back to back 3-0 shutout wins on the road, the Flyers entered this 2-game set loaded with confidence and will bounce back from Tuesday's loss to the Pens as they resume a run of 11-3 dominance against divisional foes not named the Bruins! 10* PHILADELPHIA |
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03-04-21 | Raptors v. Celtics OVER 217 | Top | 125-132 | Win | 100 | 10 h 41 m | Show |
Earliest Dominator - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NBA Rotation #547 Thursday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Boston Celtics vs Toronto Raptors @ 7:05 ET - The Raptors are depleted by quarantine requirements for multiple key players due to the covid-19 restrictions. That did not stop the Pistons from putting a beating on them last night and certainly Toronto is not going to get any mercy from Boston either. Indeed the Celtics knocked the Raptors out of the playoffs last year and have since dominated Toronto in both meetings this season. Boston scored an average of 123 points in those two games and won them by an average margin of 13 points. Each game flew over the total and I expect more of the same here. The Celtics enter this game on a run of 6-2 to the over. The Raptors enter this game on a run of 9-2 to the over their last 11 road games. More of the same here. 10* OVER the total in Boston |
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03-04-21 | George Washington v. George Mason OVER 134 | Top | 59-73 | Loss | -120 | 7 h 2 m | Show |
A-10 Tourney TV Top - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach CBB Rotation #765 Thursday 10* Top Play OVER the total in George Mason Patriots vs George Washington Colonials @ 5:30 ET - We are getting line value here as these teams just met and the total was posted in the low 140s and yet now we have a total in the mid-130s. The last meeting stayed under the total but that is because George Mason shot only 30.6% from the field! The Patriots dominated the offensive glass in that game and took 72 shots for the game but simply had "one of those nights" which is, of course, giving us line value here. The pace should again be there for an over but this time the teams should cash them in! George Mason's other 3 recent games have seen them score at least 77 points and actually average 82 points in those 3. I know George Washington has not scored well other than their first back in mid-February after a long layoff but the Colonials have averaged scoring 68 points per game in their last 3 meetings with the Patriots and they are an 8 point dog here. 76-68 sounds about right to me and that puts this game 10 points above the current total. I'll take it. 10* OVER the total in George Mason |
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03-04-21 | Chelsea +0.25 v. Liverpool | Top | 1-0 | Win | 100 | 7 h 54 m | Show |
Afternoon Annihilation - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach EPL Thursday 10* Top Play Chelsea Goal Line +0.25 goals -107 @ Liverpool @ 3:15 ET - Liverpool used to be unbeatable at home but that trend has completely reversed of late and now they have struggled badly at Anfield. That said, I love the value here with a Chelsea club that has played so well, particularly on defense, since Thomas Tuchel took over. Since Chelsea is the traveler in this one, we can get extra line value here with the goal line. With the +0.25 goal, even a draw for Chelsea cashes a ticket for us. Since Tuchel took over, Chelsea is unbeaten with 6 victories and 3 draws and they have conceded only 2 goals in these 9 matches! Liverpool has now gone 7 straight matches on their home pitch without a victory! Indeed, their last win at Anfield was in mid-December. That said, I like the value here of just needing a draw with Chelsea to cash our bet. Considering all of the above, a low-scoring duel is likely and the travelers have a great shot at the upset and I also fancy our chances of at least a draw in this one as the aforementioned streaks are long-term and continue their run here. 10* CHELSEA Goal Line +0.25 goals -107 |
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03-03-21 | Maple Leafs v. Oilers OVER 6.5 | Top | 6-1 | Win | 110 | 7 h 29 m | Show |
Total Annihilation - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NHL 10* Top Play OVER the total in Edmonton Oilers vs Toronto Maple Leafs @ 8:05 ET - Why did this total open up at a 6.5 and not a 6? Really it is strange because the Oilers have not even scored a goal in the last two games and yet the odds makers still hung a 6.5 on this one. Exactly! As long-time followers know, I am a contrarian and I feel strongly that, in this case, we are going to see a barnburner tonight when many are least expecting it. The Maple Leafs and Oilers are two of the highest scoring teams in the league and Edmonton can not keep getting shutdown on their home ice. They will bounce back. The Oilers are likely to get another shot tonight at Toronto's #3 goalie, Michael Hutchinson, and they will take advantage after he surprisingly shut them out Monday. Here is how I see this one playing out...the Leafs have scored at least 3 goals in all 10 of their road games this season. But I do not see the Oilers being denied again in this game. I could see the game going either way in terms of the side but Edmonton is going to battle hard and get their 3 goals here too. A 3-3 game can not end with anything less than a 4-3 final. This one goes over the total as result. Prior to these back to back shutout losses to the Maple Leafs, the Oilers had averaged scoring 3.6 goals per game in the 5 most recent meetings with Toronto. Also, Edmonton had averaged scoring 4 goals per game this season in a 16-game stretch that preceded these rare back to back shutouts for the Oilers. They'll get back on track tonight. 10* OVER the total in Edmonton |
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03-03-21 | Pacers v. Cavs +7 | Top | 114-111 | Win | 100 | 8 h 7 m | Show |
Earliest Dominator - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NBA Rotation #532 Wednesday 10* Top Play Cleveland Cavaliers (+) vs Indiana Pacers @ 7:05 ET - The Pacers are on a 4-game SU and ATS losing streak while the Cavaliers have won and covered 4 straight. Of course Indiana would love to reverse this trend but this is Cleveland's last game before the All-Star break and they are hungry to keep the winning going and enter the break on a 5-game run. The Pacers have their home finale before the break on deck for tomorrow so this situation favors the Cavs in my opinion. Cleveland had a horrific losing streak going before starting this win streak and they do not want to lose that winning feeling right before the break. They will go all out here and if they do fall short look for it to be by only a bucket or two. The Pacers are just 3-9 SU their last dozen games and one of the wins was by just 6 points. That said, I love the valuable with the sizable home dog in this one. 10* CLEVELAND |
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03-03-21 | Connecticut -120 v. Seton Hall | Top | 69-58 | Win | 100 | 9 h 39 m | Show |
Big East Game of the Year - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach CBB Rotation #669 Wednesday 10* Top Play Connecticut Huskies (-) @ Seton Hall Pirates @ 6:30 ET - The set up here is perfect. The Huskies are on the road so we get line value. Connecticut is playing with revenge for a home loss to the Pirates last month. Also, the Huskies now have leading scorer James Bouknight back and they did not have him for the first game versus Seton Hall. Since Bouknight has returned to the lineup UConn has lost only once and that was to Villanova, the top team in the Big East. As for Seton Hall, they enter this game struggling badly as they have lost back to back games including an ugly loss at Butler. The Bulldogs are not a very good team and the Pirates lost to them by 9 as an 8 point favorite! Overall, Seton Hall is on an 0-4 ATS run while the Huskies enter this game on a 4-1 SU and ATS run which includes 3 of 4 since Bouknight returned with the only loss being at the hands of a very strong Villanova team as noted above. Bouknight is definitely the star of the Huskies and they are 8-2 SU in the games he has played in this season with the only other loss being a 2-point loss in OT versus Creighton when the Bluejays were ranked 9th in the nation! Bouknight has been on the floor for only 2 Big East losses this season and those came against the two best teams in the conference. Seton Hall certainly does not fall into that category and I look for the Huskies to roll to a road rout in this one behind another huge game from Bouknight as they get their revenge. 10* CONNECTICUT |
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03-03-21 | Manchester United v. Crystal Palace OVER 2.5 | Top | 0-0 | Loss | -116 | 6 h 7 m | Show |
Daytime Dominator - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach EPL Wednesday 10* Top Play OVER 2.5 goals in Crystal Palace vs Manchester United @ 3:15 ET - Both clubs enter off scoreless draws. For Manchester United it came against Chelsea so was not totally unexpected considering how they have been stifling teams. However, it continued a long-term trend for Manchester United in terms of just not being able to score goals against top-level competition. That said, they are still averaging scoring 2 goals per match this season. Of course what that means is Manchester United is generally scoring plenty when they face non-top tier teams. With this also being a revenge match against Crystal Palace, I don't expect Manchester United to show any mercy here. That means we could see them score at least 3 and get this one over the total all by themselves. However, don't be surprised if Crystal Palace contributes some here too. They have seen their star, Wilfried Zaha, return to training recently and though he is still expected to miss this one it is giving an emotional boost to the club. Also, Crystal Palace saw 5 of their 7 matches, prior to the scoreless draw most recently, all finish with at least 3 goals scored. That trend quickly resumes here as the hosts are scoring an average of 1 goal per match this season but I certainly expect Manchester United to exact revenge here so we should be looking at a 2-1 final here at a minimum. Truly 4 or more goals expected here though based on how I see this fixture playing out. 10* OVER 2.5 goals in Crystal Palace |
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03-02-21 | Hurricanes v. Predators +108 | Top | 4-2 | Loss | -100 | 9 h 41 m | Show |
Situational Slaughter - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NHL Rotation #42 Tuesday 10* Top Play Nashville Predators Money Line (+) vs Carolina Hurricanes @ 8:05 ET - The Predators have won 4 of their last 5 games and now are catching the Hurricanes in the 2nd night of a back to back plus off back to back huge wins over the rival Panthers which each took extra time! One win was in a shootout and then last night's was in OT after Carolina scored with under a minute and a half to go in the game to tie it. The Hurricanes had Nedeljkovic between the pipes last night which likely means it will be Reimer tonight because Mrazek is still out. The significance in this is that Reimer has not been as sharp as Nedeljkovic of late. He hasn't been bad but Reimer has allowed at least 3 goals in 9 of his last 10 starts and did allow 5 goals twice during this span as well. Nashville enters this game rested and plus has allowed an average of only 1 goal per game in their 4 wins during their current 4-1 run. Also, the Preds are 0-2 this season on home ice against defending Stanley Cup champs TB but have gone 7-2 in their other 9 home games. They again get it done tonight and, in doing so, exact some revenge against Carolina. The Hurricanes won the first meeting between these teams this season but this one sets up well for payback! 10* NASHVILLE |
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03-02-21 | Hawks v. Heat OVER 220.5 | Top | 94-80 | Loss | -112 | 10 h 18 m | Show |
SE Div Total of the Year - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NBA Rotation #517 Tuesday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Miami Heat vs Atlanta Hawks @ 7:35 ET - These teams totaled only 208 points in Sunday's match-up but the over is 8-1 the last 9 times Atlanta has entered a match-up off a game in which they were held to 114 points or less. Also, Miami was on a 5-2 run to the over prior to the game against the Hawks this past weekend. The Heat could have Jimmy Butler back for this one as well. The two meetings between these teams that preceded Sunday's game each totaled more than 250 points. I don't expect that range here but I do like the value here with this total. It is down around 220 whereas Sunday's posted total went off the board in the mid-220s. Nice line value here. I'll take it! Neither team shot well from the field in Sunday's game and that has led to excellent value here as you'll probably see a flip of the script here and each team shoots much better in this one. 10* OVER the total in Miami |
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03-02-21 | Xavier v. Georgetown +2 | Top | 66-72 | Win | 100 | 11 h 59 m | Show |
Big East Beast - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach CBB Rotation #618 Tuesday 10* Top Play Georgetown Hoyas (+) vs Xavier Musketeers @ 7 ET - Georgetown leading scorer Jahvon Blair will be back for senior night in Washington DC tonight. The Hoyas still managed to get by without him at DePaul on Saturday afternoon. Georgetown now faces a much tougher challenge then they did with the Blue Demons but I don't see the Hoyas being denied in their home finale. Georgetown should hold a rebounding edge here and the Musketeers are not quite the same team without guard Nate Johnson. I know they just upset the Bluejays but that makes me like going against Xavier even more here as they could be a little flat after upsetting Creighton. That was the Musketeers home finale and now they face a team highly motivated to win their home finale as well. Keep in mind, Xavier was on an 0-4 ATS run prior to knocking off the Bluejays. Also, the Hoyas enter this game on a solid 6-2 ATS run at the betting window. With the early line move toward Xavier, I like this one even more. Grab the home dog in this one as they have gone from being a slight favorite to now being the underdog in this one. Traditionally going against moves like this works out very well and I love this spot for all the reasons noted above too. 10* GEORGETOWN |
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03-02-21 | Wolverhampton Wanderers v. Manchester City OVER 2.5 | Top | 1-4 | Win | 100 | 8 h 55 m | Show |
Daytime Dominator - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach EPL Tuesday 10* Top Play OVER 2.5 goals in Manchester City vs Wolverhampton Wanderers @ 3 ET - What happens when a club is looking ahead to a bigger match? Generally mistakes and potentially a listless performance that kind find a club giving up more goals than one would normally expect. I am well aware that Manchester City has a 20-match winning streak in matches going across all competitions but I would not be surprised to see an upset in this one. That is why I am favoring the over in this match. Wolverhampton actually has tallied an average of 2 goals per match in their last 3 premier league encounters with Manchester City. With a huge match on deck with rival Manchester United looming on deck for the hosts in this one, don't be surprised if the travelers enjoy some success in this one. I know Wolverhampton generally doesn't score well and that Manchester City rarely concedes but this match as a different feel both from a situational standpoint and based on the fact that Wolverhampton has given Manchester City some trouble in recent meetings. That said, and with this total having dropped from a 3 to a 2.5 in this one, I see excellent value with the over in this one as I am expecting at least a 2-1 final in this fixture. Look for the hosts to get caught looking ahead to their big showdown at the weekend with Manchester United and, as a result, we see more goals than you would expect from this match with a Wolverhampton club that always seems to give the hosts some trouble. 10* OVER 2.5 goals in Manchester City |
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03-01-21 | Flames v. Senators OVER 6 | Top | 1-5 | Push | 0 | 9 h 6 m | Show |
Situational Slaughter - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NHL Rotation #67 Monday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Ottawa Senators vs Calgary Flames @ 7:05 ET - The Flames suffered a key loss with the Jacob Markstrom injury. David Rittich has allowed 7 goals on 54 shots since taking over for him. The Senators had their 3-games winning streak with Calgary's 6-3 win Saturday but they have now averaged scoring 4.3 goals per game the last 3 games. The problem for Ottawa is keeping the puck out of their own net and, with Marcus Hogberg out, all the pressure is on veteran Matt Murray. The former Penguins netminder has allowed 19 goals in his last 5 starts for an average of 3.8 goals per game. 5 of Ottawa's last 7 games have totaled 7 or more goals and getting tonight's total at an even 6 goals is a strong value in my opinion. The Flames last 3 games at Ottawa have all totaled at least 7 goals. With Murray struggling between the pipes for the Sens and Rittich struggling for Calgary, the high-scoring trend continues here as the teams combined for 67 shots in their most recent game. More of the same here. 10* OVER the total in Ottawa |
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03-01-21 | Hurricanes v. Panthers +102 | Top | 3-2 | Loss | -100 | 9 h 49 m | Show |
Top Annihilation - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NHL Rotation #72 Monday 10* Top Play Florida Panthers Money Line (+) vs Carolina Hurricanes @ 7:05 ET - The Panthers are so dangerous and so resilient. Florida rallied from a 2-0 third period deficit to beat the Stars 3-2 on Thursday. Then, on Saturday, the Panthers again rallied from a 2-0 third period deficit to tie the game before falling behind 3-2 and then again managing to knot the game late and force OT. That one ended up being decided in the shootout and the Hurricanes prevailed but this Panthers team continues to impress me. This is a great spot to back them now as Florida is a perfect 6-0 this season when off a loss! The Hurricanes are a very strong team but they had lost 3 in a row before the tight win Saturday and I know the Panthers are going to come out strong here on home ice after that loss. Two high quality teams meeting for the 2nd consecutive game and I give a large edge to the home dog as they look to improve to 7-0 on the season when in this situation. The absence of Canes #1 goalie Petr Mrazek is still an issue for Carolina. He should be back soon but I do not expect that to be tonight and, either way, like the Panthers a ton in this spot! 10* FLORIDA |
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03-01-21 | Pacers v. 76ers -5 | Top | 114-130 | Win | 100 | 10 h 51 m | Show |
Earliest Dominator - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NBA Rotation #504 Monday 10* Top Play Philadelphia 76ers (-) vs Indiana Pacers @ 7:05 ET - The Sixers are normally fantastic on their home floor. But they just gave a horrific effort versus the Cavaliers on Saturday and lost the game in OT outright as a double digit home favorite! Suffice to say, Philadelphia was not happy with that result and will be ready to go here after a very rare home loss. The 76ers beat Brooklyn by 16 points the last time they entered a game off a home loss. Also, here they can take advantage of an Indiana team that has lost 10 of its last 14 games. The Pacers Malcolm Brogdon is dealing with a knee injury and missed their last game. Even if he goes tonight he is unlikely to be 100 percent and this is an angry Sixers team that Indiana will be facing here. Look for the home team, 14-3 this season and 31-4 last season as a host, to roll by double digits in this one! 10* PHILADELPHIA |
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03-01-21 | Dayton v. St Bonaventure OVER 132.5 | Top | 55-52 | Loss | -107 | 9 h 46 m | Show |
Total of the Week - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach CBB Rotation #829 Monday 10* Top Play OVER the total in St Bonaventure Bonnies vs Dayton Flyers @ 5 ET - I am well aware of the fact that the Bonnies have trended under recently as well as truly being an "under team" for the season. However, this total is far too low considering the opponent. Dayton is averaging 72 points per game on the road this season. The reason St Bonaventure has trended under this season is solid defense but they won't be able to totally shutdown this Flyers team that has some skilled scoring options. At the same time, the Bonnies are averaging 77 points per game on their home floor this season. Again, the under trend has certainly not been because St Bonaventure can't score well because they truly do score very well as a host. The Bonnies enter this game off an 88-point outburst versus George Washington and they have now averaged 82 points per game their last 4 home games. Dayton did have a recent 2-OT game on the road but even removing those points from the equation, the Flyers have averaged 73 points per game their last 4 road games. However, not including OT points, Dayton has also surrendered 76.5 points per game their last 4 road games. Their defensive play has been much better at home than on the road this season. The Flyers almost always get to the mid-60s in points scored and the Bonnies are favored by 7.5 points here for good reason. That said, I certainly see this total getting to at least the 140 mark and the 150 range would not be a total shock either given all of the above. 10* OVER the total in St Bonaventure |
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03-01-21 | Southampton v. Everton OVER 2.5 | Top | 0-1 | Loss | -110 | 8 h 34 m | Show |
Early TV Blowout - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach EPL 10* Top Play OVER 2.5 goals in Everton vs Southampton @ 3 ET - I am well aware of the fact that Southampton has injury issues but I just do not see them going down without a fight here. That said, I do not expect them to get shutout here. Certainly I also do not expect a wounded Southampton to deliver a clean sheet either. That means this match gets to at least 1-1 in my opinion. Now here is the key as to why this match gets to at least 2-1. The fact is Everton has only had 4 draws in 24 matches this season. This is a club that likes to go hard for the full 3 points in the table and will be aggressive on the attack even at the risk of getting burned and conceding a goal on the counterattack. Though coming off delivering a clean sheet at Anfield against Liverpool, Everton actually had conceded an average of 3 goals per match over their last 4 matches across all competitions. As for Southampton, prior to getting shutout by Leeds United, they had scored an average of 1.5 goals per match over their last 4 matches across all competitions. Southampton has conceded 2.3 goals per game as travelers this season and that is the worst mark in the league. Everton has conceded 1.7 goals per game as hosts this season. Southampton won the reverse fixture 2-0 as hosts in October but that was the first clean sheet delivered by either club in any of the last 5 meetings. With this total posted at 2.5 goals and with each club likely to get at least one goal plus not wanting to settle for just 1 point in the table, I just do not see this match finishing with anything less than a 2-1 final and truly I expect 4 goals to be scored here but 3 will cash our ticket just fine as well. 10* OVER 2.5 goals in Everton |
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02-28-21 | Penguins v. Islanders -104 | Top | 0-2 | Win | 100 | 7 h 17 m | Show |
Top Annihilation - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NHL Rotation #64 Sunday 10* Top Play New York Islanders Money Line (-) vs Pittsburgh Penguins @ 5:05 ET - Yesterday the Islanders had a 2-0 lead against the Penguins but blew it before then taking another lead, 3-2, but then allowed the tying goal in the 3rd period and losing in overtime. Pittsburgh is a solid hockey club but they continue to be very fortunate and after again finding a way to win another one after regulation yesterday, the Penguins will fall short here in my opinion. The back to back favors the Islanders because Ilya Sorokin is likely to be between the pipes for the Isles and he is coming off a shutout win plus has allowed 2 or less goals in 2 of his last 3 starts. Since the Penguins used Tristan Jarry in the crease yesterday it is likely going to be Casey DeSmith getting the start here. The Pittsburgh backup goalie has allowed 3 or more goals in 4 of his last 5 appearances and has 4 wins this season but all came after regulation. He did beat the Islanders in a shootout win in his last start and that means it is payback time here. For DeSmith and the Penguins, their luck runs out here. You are going to see a very determined effort here from a revenge-minded Islanders team in this one. The Isles have yet to lose a game in regulation on home ice as they are 6-0-2 as a host and get payback here for yesterday's OT loss. 10* NEW YORK ISLANDERS |
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02-28-21 | Clippers v. Bucks OVER 236 | Top | 100-105 | Loss | -110 | 7 h 17 m | Show |
Daytime Dominator - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NBA Rotation #563 Sunday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Milwaukee Bucks vs Los Angeles Clippers @ 3:35 ET - The Clippers are off back to back unders but that had a lot to do with playing at Memphis. The Grizzlies certainly are not known for getting involved in high-scoring games. That is worthy of note because LA, prior to those B2B unders, was on a 5-0 run to the over in road games. As for the Bucks, they are red hot and playing at home and so they should continue to shoot very well here. Buoyed by the confidence of a 4-game winning streak, Milwaukee has been particularly red hot in the last 3 games as they have averaged 132 points per game. However, when winning despite allowing an average of 117.3 points per game, you can tend to have a bit of a let up on the defensive end because you feel your offensive production will continue to bail you out. That said, don't be surprised if this game flies over the total as the Clippers have scored 119 points or more in 6 of their last 7 road games and the Bucks are flying high right now and have seen 7 of their last 9 home games go over the total. This one will too. 10* OVER the total in Milwaukee |
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02-28-21 | Villanova v. Butler OVER 129.5 | Top | 61-73 | Win | 100 | 4 h 27 m | Show |
Big East Beast - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach CBB Rotation #791 Sunday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Butler Bulldogs vs Villanova Wildcats @ Noon ET - The Wildcats have a much tougher game with Creighton on deck. Will their defensive focus be a little distracted here as a result? I absolutely believe that will prove to be the case here and, at the same time, Butler is off a tremendous effort on the defensive end that certainly will not be repeated here. The Bulldogs just held Seton Hall to 52 points but the Pirates are definitely not in the same class as these Wildcats. Also, the last 3 meetings between these teams each went over the total and the last 2 averaged 153 points per game! We have got a low total to work with here when you consider that Villanova is averaging 78 points per game this season. Yes, Butler is averaging only 65 points per game at home this season but the Wildcats are a double digit favorite for a reason. In other words could we see a 75-65 type game here? Absolutely! The Wildcats lost their last visit to Hinkle Fieldhouse so they won't take their foot off the gas in this one as they have been reminded of that defeat heading into this one. 10* OVER the total in Butler |
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02-28-21 | Burnley v. Tottenham Hotspur -1 | Top | 0-4 | Win | 100 | 15 h 52 m | Show |
Game of the Month - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach EPL Sunday 10* Top Play Tottenham Hotspur Goal Line -1 goals -105 vs Burnley @ 9 AM ET - In recent weeks, looking at Tottenham performances does not impress but they were without Harry Kane for much of that time. Now he is back and overall this club is very healthy and in much better shape on the health front than that of Burnley. Also, this game is on the home pitch of Tottenham and note that Burnley has not traveled well at all this season. They have won just 3 of 12 matches on enemy pitch plus have scored a total of only 8 goals in those dozen affairs. Only Sheffield United, dead last in the table by the way, has scored fewer goals as a traveler in this campaign. That said, the host should dominate in this one. Of course that is why they are nearly a 2 to 1 favorite on the money line. Where have value here, in my opinion, is by reducing our lay amount to a pick'em price by taking the Hotspur on the goal line which is at a -1 goal even. I look for Tottenham to roll big here. The Hotspur have 2 recent victories that came by a combined score of 8 to 1 in UEFA Europa League action. Though not in premier league those are confidence boosters and Burnley's last two non-draw decisions across all competitions were each decided by multi-goal margins. I feel strongly that this match-up will be as well. Odds favor a home club victory and I expect a solid margin as Tottenham has scored 4 goals in 3 of its last 5 matches across all competitions and Burnley has been held to 1 goal or less in 4 of its last 5 matches across all competitions. 10* TOTTENHAM -1 goal -105 |
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02-27-21 | Hurricanes -115 v. Panthers | Top | 4-3 | Win | 100 | 8 h 17 m | Show |
Top Annihilation - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NHL Rotation #41 Saturday 10* Top Play Carolina Hurricanes Money Line (-) @ Florida Panthers @ 7:05 ET - Why are the Hurricanes, 6-5 on the road and on a 3-game losing streak, favored AT Florida? There is only one team, Toronto, in the NHL that has more points in the standings than the Panthers. So, again, the point is why is Carolina favored in this game? As I have pointed out numerous times in the past, I am not a believer in the "odds maker mistake" theory. In other words, this is no mistake here either. The Canes are a road favorite because they are a very good team that has lost 3 straight games and is coming into this game hungry after 3 straight losses to the defending Stanley Cup Champion Lightning. I like the fact that the Panthers just rallied for 3 goals in the 3rd period of a 3-2 win over the Stars on Thursday. Look for the Hurricanes to prove to be the much hungrier team in this one and Florida falls flat after rallying for the big win versus Dallas. 10* CAROLINA |
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02-27-21 | Cavs v. 76ers OVER 223.5 | Top | 112-109 | Loss | -110 | 9 h 18 m | Show |
Total Dominator - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NBA Rotation #549 Saturday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Philadelphia 76ers vs Cleveland Cavaliers @ 7:05 ET - This is simply one of those games that jumped off the page at me because I do not see the Sixers being interested in playing defense here. Where is the motivation for a strong effort against a bad Cavaliers team. That said, we are also getting line value because of public perception. What the markets are looking at here is that the Sixers have stayed under the total in 4 straight games and the Cavaliers have stayed under the total in 5 straight games. However, prior to holding Houston to just 96 points, Cleveland had allowed an average of 124 points per game their preceding 11 games. If you factor that in and loo at this line of a -10 then it means we should see a 124-114 type game which is well above the posted total on this one. The 76ers are off B2B wins but that was preceded by a 2-4 stretch that saw them allow 116.7 points per game in those 6 games. 10* OVER the total in Philadelphia |
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02-27-21 | Creighton v. Xavier +5 | Top | 69-77 | Win | 100 | 8 h 52 m | Show |
Big East Beast Top Side - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach CBB Rotation #684 Saturday 10* Top Play Xavier Musketeers (+) vs Creighton Bluejays @ 5 ET - Without a shadow of doubt, of course, Creighton is a very good team. Also, Xavier looks very unimpressive to the betting markets because of a recent 1-3 run. However, all that has done here is create exceptional value in my opinion. Keep in mind, the Musketeers had an unwanted two weeks off due to health protocol impacting their schedule so one could give them a mulligan for the home loss to Connecticut which followed. Since then Xavier has had two tough road games and just one home game. They won the only home game and the Musketeers are now 10-2 at home this season. Again, I know the Bluejays command (and deserve) respect but prior to a road win and cover at Georgetown in their most recent away game, Creighton was on a 1-3 ATS run in road games. This is Xavier's home finale and you know they would love nothing more than to get revenge for their road loss at Creighton earlier this season plus close the home portion of their schedule with a big win. As you would expect, the Bluejays don't shoot as well nor score as well on the road as they do at home. As you would also expect, the Musketeers do shoot better at home plus score better as a host. They have a great shot at the upset here which certainly has me liking the added value of having these points on our side too. 10* XAVIER |
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02-27-21 | Marquette v. Connecticut OVER 135 | Top | 62-80 | Win | 100 | 6 h 39 m | Show |
Big East Beast Top Total - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach CBB Rotation #645 Saturday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Connecticut Huskies vs Marquette Golden Eagles @ 2:30 ET - The first meeting between these teams stayed well under the total but look for the second one to play out much differently. Both teams enter off wins. Also, the Golden Eagles are now 3-1 to the over in their last 4 road games while the Huskies are 3-1 to the over in their last 4 home games. Additionally, Connecticut now has James Bouknight back and he is a big scorer for him. Marquette is averaging 70.8 points per game on the road and UConn is averaging 75.7 points per game at home. Don't be surprised when this game gets into the mid-140s. The Huskies are off back to back unders but those games were on the road and that stretch was preceded by a run of 6-1 to the over. That run resumes for them starting today at home. 10* OVER the total in Connecticut |
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02-27-21 | Brighton & Hove Albion -0.5 v. West Bromwich Albion | Top | 0-1 | Loss | -105 | 14 h 59 m | Show |
Early TV Blowout - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach EPL Saturday 10* Top Play Brighton & Hove -105 vs West Bromwich @ 10 AM ET - West Bromwich is the host here but has just 2 wins on the entire campaign and just 1 home win and their average goal differential on their home pitch is actually 2 goals per match. Just horrible numbers. Conversely, Brighton & Hove is a respectable 4-4-4 as a traveler this season and their goal differential is nearly dead even on the road. However, Brighton & Hove still need to get a big win here as they are not safely away from the relegation zone. Even though Brighton & Hove are off a draw and a loss in their last two matches they have dominated both incredibly! They actually out shot their competitors 31 to 8 in those matches including 13 to 3 in terms of shots on goal. Brighton & Hove simply has not gotten what they deserved in their last two matches and they will make the most of facing a weak West Bromwich club here. The road team has allowed just 1.3 goals per match as travelers this season while the host team here has allowed 2.7 goals per match on their home pitch. I don't see the road team being denied here. 10* BRIGHTON & HOVE -105 |
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02-26-21 | Rockets v. Raptors -7 | Top | 111-122 | Win | 100 | 12 h 33 m | Show |
Early Dominator - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NBA Rotation #536 Friday 10* Top Play Toronto Raptors (-) vs Houston Rockets @ 7:35 ET - The Rockets have lost 9 straight games. Houston went 1-8 ATS during this run and the lone ATS win never should have happened. The Rockets trailed by 26 points at the half - and by as many as 29 points during the game - at Philly last week but got a bit of a miracle back door cover in that game. Even with under 10 minutes to go in the game Houston was still down 18 points. The point is that the Rockets very easily could be on an 0-9 ATS run and the fact is they are highly like to fall to their 10th straight SU loss here and I look for Toronto to win this one by double digits. The set up here is solid as the Raptors are off back to back losses and will be extra hungry here as a result. Toronto, prior to the B2B defeats, had won 9 of 12 games both SU and ATS and I fully expect them to respond here. Also, the Raptors are on a streak of 20+ games in which whoever the SU winner is in their games is also the ATS winner. Considering that as well as the fact that the Rockets have lost 9 straight games, you can see why I fully expect the home team to get the win AND cover in this one! 10* TORONTO |
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02-26-21 | Bruins -165 v. Rangers | Top | 2-6 | Loss | -165 | 10 h 38 m | Show |
NHL Network Crusher - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NHL Rotation #23 Friday 10* Top Play Boston Bruins Money Line (-) @ New York Rangers @ 7:05 ET - The Bruins are off an embarrassing 7-2 loss to the Islanders last night but that is a deceiving final score. Boston actually outshot the Isles by a substantial margin through two periods and the game was 2-2 heading to the third period. Then everything unraveled and that was the kind of ugly third period that a good team can not wait to respond to. That said, the Bruins are likely happy to have a game immediately the very next evening and that is bad news for a Rangers team that is not the same when they do not have Artemi Panarin on the ice. New York generally struggles to produce much offensively without Panarin and the fact they got 3 goals against the Flyers Wednesday was thanks in large part to two coming on the power play plus the fact Philadelphia is still missing quite a few guys due to covid protocol. In fact that is the same Flyers team the Bruins just blasted 7-3 in the outdoor game Sunday at Lake Tahoe. That said, Rangers lose to that team 4-3 and it is the same team Boston just crushed 7-3. The fact is there is a large disparity between the level of these two teams and that is why this is a rare exception for me as I am going with a top play even though this money line price is in the 155 to 165 range as of early game day morning. I just feel this one has road rout written all over it. The Bruins won all 3 meetings between these clubs last season and also has won both so far this season. Now they make it 6 in a row here. Also, the Rangers have lost 4 straight home games and are facing the wrong team at the wrong time. 10* BOSTON |
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02-26-21 | Drexel v. James Madison OVER 143 | Top | 84-78 | Win | 100 | 5 h 15 m | Show |
Situational Slaughter - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach CBB Rotation #821 Friday 10* Top Play OVER the total in James Madison Dukes vs Drexel Dragons @ 4 ET - Something going on here when you look at this total. It has been creeping up higher from its opener even though these teams totaled only 137 points when they met last month and that was the 5th straight under in this series. Also, James Madison's Matt Lewis is listed as questionable with a knee injury and yet still the total went higher. Part of the reason in my opinion is that both of these teams are coming off long layoffs. Drexel's is nearly 3 weeks and the Dukes is nearly 2 weeks. When teams have time off like this without games they tend to come out a little rusty and miss assignments on defense, don't switch properly in terms of defensive play, turn the ball over too often leading to quick transition points the other way. All those factors can lead to higher scoring games and are more common this season when two teams come into a game after long layoffs. So my opinion is that some sharp action is starting to come in on this total and it was already one that was on my radar for today. The Dukes have won 7 straight games and are favored to win this game at home for a reason. Note that James Madison has scored an average of 82 points per game in their last 11 wins! The Dragons have scored 73 points or more in 3 of their last 4 road games and will be in this game all the way. Getting this one to the 150 range can be expected as Drexel is hitting 48.6% from the field in road games this season and the Dukes are averaging 81.2 points per game at home this season. 10* OVER the total in James Madison |
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02-25-21 | Magic v. Nets OVER 226.5 | Top | 92-129 | Loss | -113 | 10 h 26 m | Show |
Early Dominator - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NBA Rotation #521 Thursday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Brooklyn Nets vs Orlando Magic @ 7:35 ET - Without Kevin Durant Tuesday the Nets game still totaled 245 points and Brooklyn had a super impressive 30 assists on their 44 buckets. The Nets continue to pile up points and I don't expect that to stop now against an Orlando team they can dominate. The Magic had a ridiculous 93 point performance at home against Detroit on Tuesday so they will be happy to run and gun here with a Nets team that has been doing plenty of that this season. In fact, in Brooklyn is 23-10 to the over in their games this season including 12-5 in home games. The last time these teams met they combined for 237 points last month. That was a 7 point win for the Nets and I can't see them being overly excited about playing great defense here against an Orlando team that is 6 games below .500 on the season and has won just 5 of 15 road games this season. The Nets have won 7 straight games and have averaged 124.3 points per game their last 6 games. They are an 8 point favorite here. 124-116 sounds about right and that puts this game more than dozen points higher than the current number posted. Either way, even 230 puts us into the win column here and I am expecting at least that much here. 10* OVER the total in Brooklyn |
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02-25-21 | Penguins v. Capitals -105 | Top | 2-5 | Win | 100 | 7 h 1 m | Show |
10* WASHINGTON - The Capitals got outplayed by the Penguins Tuesday. The game went to OT but the Caps were severely outshot by the Pens. I look for Washington to make up for that here. Keep in mind, 3 of the 4 wins that Pittsburgh has in these teams match-ups this season have come in OT or the SO. Also, the game prior to Tuesday's was a 3-1 Capitals win in which they outshot the Penguins by a 42 to 27 margin. Pittsburgh has been very strong on home ice this season but their win on Tuesday was just their 3rd win in 9 road games this season. Washington's players will be highly motivated and focused here on a strong effort after being unimpressive for too many stretches of Tuesday's game. The Capitals have just one regulation loss in last five games and get back on track here with their 4th win in 6 games. Look for the Penguins to drop to 0-3 this season when they are on the road and coming off a win. 10* WASHINGTON |
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02-25-21 | Iowa +5.5 v. Michigan | Top | 57-79 | Loss | -109 | 9 h 31 m | Show |
Situational Slaughter - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach CBB Rotation #737 Thursday 10* Top Play Iowa Hawkeyes (+) @ Michigan Wolverines @ 7:30 ET - The #3 team in the nation at home where they are 11-0 this season and facing a team that is only 5-4 this season when away from home and yet this one featured a 3.5 as an opening line. The odds makers had the right idea and yet the market place things they have it all wrong and have already pushed this line to as high a 5.5 in some spots. In typical contrarian fashion I am on the other side of the move but, as always, it is not without reason. The Hawkeyes are 5-2 SU in their last 7 road games and the two losses each came by 5 or less points. That said, I love the line value here as Michigan is off of 3 straight hard fought wins and is going to be really tested now by a dynamic Iowa offense that is averaging 80 points per game its last 4 games. The Wolverines are off a high-scoring win over Ohio State but had averaged only 69 points per game in their 3 preceding games. Allowing 87 points to the Buckeyes also has to be a concern for Michigan as they now take on the highest scoring team in the Big Ten. The Hawkeyes also have far and away the best assist to turnover ratio in the conference plus they lead the Big Ten in rebounding. Grab the generous points here. 10* IOWA |
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02-24-21 | Celtics v. Hawks OVER 225.5 | Top | 112-127 | Win | 100 | 9 h 29 m | Show |
Early Dominator - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NBA Rotation #507 Wednesday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Atlanta Hawks vs Boston Celtics @ 7:35 ET - These teams were both in action yesterday and each game stayed just under the total. That is part of the reason the early move on this total was from a 227.5 to a 225.5 and I am jumping in on this one. Before the Hawks game stayed under the total yesterday, the over was on a perfect 8-0 run. Also, these teams have met twice this season and both meetings were last week and both meetings went over the total. Before yesterday's under, the Celtics road games were on a 4-2 run to the over. In the Hawks 8-0 run to the over the games averaged 238 points so they aren't just going over, they are flying over! That is the type of game I am looking for here as both teams will be relentless in the offensive end after they each lost very tight games yesterday and will be pushing hard to get back into the win column here. 10* OVER the total in Atlanta |
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02-24-21 | Rangers v. Flyers -117 | Top | 3-4 | Win | 100 | 8 h 58 m | Show |
Situational Slaughter - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NHL Rotation #64 Wednesday 10* Top Play Philadelphia Flyers Money Line (-) vs New York Rangers @ 7:05 ET - The Flyers got hammered by their newest nemesis, the Bruins, on Sunday in the outdoor game at Lake Tahoe. Philadelphia didn't play all that bad early on considering how short-handed they were because of covid but the game got away from them in the latter half of the 2nd period. The problem is goalie Carter Hart really struggled. That happens sometimes and he'll get a break here and Brian Elliott will get the start. He has been great this season and the Flyers will play extra strong here on home ice as they look to atone for the beating they took at the hands of Boston. Note that the Flyers also are expected to get a boost with the return of captain Claude Giroux from the health protocol list. At the same time the Flyers are getting a boost the Rangers are dealing with a major problem. New York has impressed this season with stronger defensive play and goaltending than expected. However, the Rangers often struggle to score goals. One of the keys to them generating a lot of offensive zone time and great scoring chances seems to be when Artemi Panarin is on the ice. However, he is now out after the big story broke in Russia about past allegations against him. Whether the story is true or fabricated, it has the Rangers missing their best playmaker on offense plus has created a distraction. The Flyers lost in the shootout the last time they faced the Rangers. That is one of only two losses they have this season against teams not named the Bruins as they have now won 8 of 10 games this season other than being winless against Boston. The home team gets their revenge here. 10* PHILADELPHIA |
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02-24-21 | Seton Hall v. Butler +7.5 | Top | 52-61 | Win | 100 | 11 h 47 m | Show |
Big East Beast - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach CBB Rotation #684 Wednesday 10* Top Play Butler Bulldogs (+) vs Seton Hall Pirates @ 7 ET - This line is not up everywhere right now and that is because of the questionable status of three senior starters for Butler. The Bulldogs have Bo Hodges, Bryce Nze, and Aaron Thompson all listed as questionable for this one. My take on this is I don't see these guys again all missing another game. Maybe not all 3 play but I would be surprised if at least 2 of the 3 are not seeing action in this game tonight. Why? Well they are seniors and even though they have two more regular season games left this is definitely the most winnable game on their schedule that remains. Their next two games are versus Villanova and at Creighton. Yikes! By the way, even without all 3 of those aforementioned starters, the Bulldogs were down by only 5 points with a minute and a half to go in their 12 point loss to the Musketeers Sunday. Now they are at home and a big dog and could have some starting firepower back for this one and note that Seton Hall is 13-9 this season while Xavier is 12-4. The Pirates are certainly solid and have gone 10-6 in Big East action but the Musketeers are no slouches it is just their Big East schedule has been heavily impacted by covid. There is simply tremendous value with the home dog in this match-up and I suspect this line will steadily come down as the day goes on so lets jump on the early value here in a game the Bulldogs will be gunning hard for the upset win. It truly is their most winnable game left on the schedule and historically they are a tough team at Hinkle Fieldhouse. 10* BUTLER |
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02-23-21 | St. John's v. Villanova -11 | Top | 58-81 | Win | 100 | 10 h 22 m | Show |
Big East Beast - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach CBB Rotation #628 Tuesday 10* Top Play Villanova Wildcats (-) vs St John's Red Storm @ 8 ET - Randomly playing revenge situations will get you in trouble in no time but finding the right revenge spots can be pure gold. The best teams in the Big East this season are Villanova and Creighton. The Wildcats lost by double digits at St John's earlier this season and now it is payback time. Why should we expect a solid home win for Villanova here? Well the best sample size to look at is how the Red Storm performed against the Bluejays this season. St John's has already faced Creighton twice and lost each game by an 18 point margin. Villanova can do the same here and this line is down to an 11 as of early game day morning. I'll take it. The Wildcats will take advantage of a Red Storm team that has allowed 86 points per game in its last two games. Villanova is a very strong shooting team at home. Also, the Wildcats are allowing just 66 points per game as a host this season. Coincidentally the posted total on this game is 152.5 and 86-66 indeed sounds about right and the expectation of that final score is justified per the above. The point is you can see why I am expecting the Cats to win this one by about 18 to 20 points. 10* VILLANOVA |
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02-23-21 | Penguins v. Capitals OVER 6 | Top | 3-2 | Loss | -120 | 9 h 46 m | Show |
NBCSN Blowout Rout - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NHL Rotation #51 Tuesday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Washington Capitals vs Pittsburgh Penguins @ 7:05 ET - The Penguins are seeking revenge for a 3-1 loss to the Capitals last Tuesday. While I certainly do expect Pittsburgh to respond here, I do not trust them to keep pucks out of their own net. The Pens have allowed an average of 4 goals per game in road games this season. As for the Capitals, they might have Ilya Samsonov finally back between the pipes tonight but it is hard to trust the netminder with how much time he has missed. Either way, no matter who Washington has in the crease for this one, this is a Caps team that has allowed 3 or more goals in 8 of last 10 games. I just don't see either team from being prevented from getting to the 3-goal mark here and, of course, that number would guarantee us of at least a 4-3 final. These teams had reached at least 7 goals in each of their last 6 meetings prior to the 3-1 Capitals win last week. Those 6 games averaged 8 goals per game. Also, neither team has played that well on the penalty kill this season and the Washington power play is cashing in at a 33% clip! 10 of last 15 Capitals games have totaled 7 or more goals. The Penguins come into this game with having scored 3 or more goals in all but one of their last 6 games and that was the 3-1 loss to the Caps. It is payback time here for the Pens but I don't trust their netminding or defensive play and, as a result, I like this one to turn into a very high-scoring affair. 10* OVER the total in Pittsburgh |
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02-23-21 | Sabres +124 v. Devils | Top | 4-1 | Win | 124 | 8 h 18 m | Show |
Situational Slaughter - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NHL Rotation #83 Tuesday 10* Top Play Buffalo Sabres Money Line (+) @ New Jersey Devils @ 7:05 ET - This is a back to back spot for the Sabres but it is not as if the odds makers were not aware of that when they posted the money line on this game. That said, it has continued to spike toward the Devils and I am happy to grab the additional value with the road dog in this one. Buffalo actually outshot a very stingy Islanders team last night by a solid margin and yet still fell just short on the scoreboard by a single goal. This will only strengthen the Sabres resolve in terms of tonight's game. Not only that they do have Carter Hutton to tend goal tonight after Linus Ullmark was between the pipes last night. Hutton has allowed just a single goal in each of his two road appearances this season and I look for him to get the job done here against a Devils team that is a big over-rated in my opinion. Also, the Sabres are a respectable 3-3-3 on the road this season while the Devils have lost 4 of 6 home games this season. In other words, the home ice "edge" is truly not even an "edge" in this early season match-up. I know it is a revenge game for New Jersey but the Sabres are just as hungry for this one after last night's loss which, again, was a quite impressive performance against an Islanders team that is generally tough to play against. I like what I am seeing from the Sabres right now and will back them as a dog here. 10* BUFFALO |
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02-23-21 | Pistons v. Magic OVER 207 | Top | 105-93 | Loss | -107 | 11 h 12 m | Show |
Eastern Conference Total of the Year - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NBA Rotation #567 Tuesday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Orlando Magic vs Detroit Pistons @ 7:05 ET - These teams just met on Sunday and the game had 159 points through 3 quarters and was on pace for 212 for the game before a horrific 4th quarter kept the game under the total. When I look at the stats from that game, the teams both shot poorly from 3-point land as they combined for just 20 of 70 from downtown. If these teams hit their season averages for threes they would have knocked down 25 of those so 5 more threes which equates to 15 more points and the game would have gone over the total. We get a little line value with this total now pushed even a little lower than Sunday's and I liked the pace of Sunday's game and the fact each team only had 11 turnovers. In other words, the scoring opportunities were there but the teams were just "off" and I don't expect that to be repeated here. Look at it this way too...the Magic have won 3 straight games and 4 of their last 5. They are favored here for a reason and have averaged 115 points in those 4 victories. They are a 3-point choice in this game which put the final score at about 115-112 which is 20 points above the current number on this one. I am not expecting that many necessarily but I am expecting about 217 based on all of the above and that still puts this one at double digits above the current posted number as of early Tuesday. I'll take it! 10* OVER the total in Orlando |
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02-22-21 | Bulls v. Rockets +1 | Top | 120-100 | Loss | -103 | 7 h 25 m | Show |
Earliest Cash - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NBA Rotation #554 Monday 10* Top Play Houston Rockets (+) vs Chicago Bulls @ 8:05 ET - The Rockets have had extra time off due to cancelled games. This has given them even more time to think about their current 7-game losing streak. That said, I expect a highly motivated Houston team to take the floor tonight at home against Chicago. As for the Bulls, they take the floor off a win and cover but that was at home against Sacramento. What is noteworthy about this is Chicago hasn't covered consecutive games since mid-January so, coming off an ATS win, odds favor the Bulls falling short tonight. There was a reason the odds makers opened up the team on a 7-game losing streak as the favorite here. Don't let the line fool you. Grab the Rockets as they get back on track in a big way in this one. Chicago was on a 4-9 ATS run prior to knocking off the Kings Saturday. 10* HOUSTON |
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02-22-21 | Flames +129 v. Maple Leafs | Top | 3-0 | Win | 129 | 5 h 17 m | Show |
Situational Slaughter - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NHL Rotation #35 Monday 10* Top Play Calgary Flames Money Line (+) @ Toronto Maple Leafs @ 7:05 ET - Great situational set up here as the Maple Leafs are off a big win over Montreal - which was also Toronto's 3rd straight overall - while the Flames are off an embarrassing loss (7-1) at Edmonton. This situation will bring out the best in Calgary and the road team is 3-0 in the last 3 meetings between these teams. That includes the Leafs taking each of the first two meetings this season at Calgary even though the Flames did hold an edge on shots in each game. Both those match-ups were very close and Calgary is fired up for revenge after they fell just short. The Flames lost each of those games by a single goal and will prove to be the much hungrier team in this one tonight which means we are getting excellent line value with the road dog here. 10* CALGARY |
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02-22-21 | NC-Greensboro v. Western Carolina OVER 141 | Top | 77-56 | Loss | -118 | 8 h 28 m | Show |
Total of the Week - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach CBB Rotation #845 Monday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Western Carolina Catamounts vs UNC Greensboro Spartans @ 5 ET - Top team in conference standings visiting the worst team. The best comparison we have for this and, by the way, UNC Greensboro does still need to win games to lock up the top spot, is when the Spartans recently faced Samford. The Bulldogs are having a very rough season just like the Catamounts are and Greensboro blasted them in each game and both totaled at least 150 points. Note that Western Carolina enters this game having allowed 79.1 points per game their last 10 games and that does not include the OT period in their loss at Chattanooga. That said, plenty of points expected here as the Spartans enter this game off a very rare poor shooting game that resulted in a tight, low-scoring 60-55 home win. On the road, UNC Greensboro has scored at least 71 points in 10 of 11 games. In fact, the Spartans have averaged 80.3 points per game in those 10 games. This game has the makings of an 80 to 70 type affair and UNC Greensboro highly motivated after losing their most recent road game plus coming off a dismal home effort that result in a win that did not even feel like a win. The Spartans now cut loose in this one and force the Catamounts to run and gun. 10* OVER the total in Western Carolina |
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02-21-21 | Flyers +160 v. Bruins | Top | 3-7 | Loss | -100 | 10 h 48 m | Show |
TV Annihilation - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NHL Rotation #25 Sunday 10* Top Play Philadelphia Flyers Money Line (+) vs Boston Bruins @ 7:35 in Stateline, NV - Lake Tahoe - The Flyers are missing some players. But there is simply too much line value here to pass up. Keep in mind this is an outdoor game. It is a unique game in a unique setting and if you're going to offer a high-quality team with high-quality goaltending a +160 price in a neutral site setting it is something I will not pass up on. This is particularly true because the Bruins are also down a couple solid players and plus Boston hasn't exactly been piling up the goals of late. In fact, the Bruins have averaged only 1.8 goals per game in regulation time of their last 5 games. Also, Boston enters this game off back to back losses by a combined score of 7 to 4. It is simply hard to justify the Bruins being such a huge favorite in a neutral site game in which the Flyers have come up with some creative line combos too that are geared toward continuing to frustrate the Bruins attack. Too much line value to pass up here. This is a money line that was once as high as -200 and the fact it has come down substantially from that, despite the Flyers missing some key guys, tells you that there is some sharp money on the big dog in this one. 10* PHILADELPHIA |
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02-21-21 | 76ers -2.5 v. Raptors | Top | 103-110 | Loss | -110 | 11 h 51 m | Show |
Eastern Annihilation - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NBA Rotation #537 Sunday 10* Top Play Philadelphia 76ers (-) @ Toronto Raptors @ 7:05 ET - The Sixers are off back to back wins but non-covers. Finally in this one they should have both Joel Embiid and Ben Simmons both on the floor together and I expect a road rout to result. Since the Raptors have had some recent wins and because the 76ers are the visitors for this one, we are getting a low number to work with. That said, I won't hesitate to step in as there is great value with this line opening up at a 2.5 this morning. 6 of the Raptors last 7 losses have come by 4 or more points. Each of Philly's last 7 wins have come by 5 or more points. Toronto is playing their home games in Tampa this season and they have certainly not held the same home court edge as in years past. The Raptors enter this game 1-3 SU last 4 home games and the lone win was against an Orlando team this is winning just 40 percent of their games this season. Now Toronto is facing a 76ers team that is 19-5 SU this season in games in which Embiid has played. 10* PHILADELPHIA |
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02-21-21 | Newcastle United v. Manchester United OVER 3 | Top | 1-3 | Win | 100 | 17 h 31 m | Show |
Daytime Dominator - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach EPL Sunday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Manchester United vs Newcastle United @ 2 ET - Manchester United is off a 4-0 win over Real Sociedad in UEFA Europa League action. Also, they have scored 3 or more goals in 2 of last 3 matches in premier league action. Newcastle United is off a shutout loss but they faced Chelsea who has been playing so well and delivering plenty of clean sheets. Newcastle should get back on track with at least a goal here even though they are on enemy pitch. Prior to the shutout defeat at the hands of Chelsea, Newcastle had scored an average of 1.8 goals last 4 matches. 3 of the last 5 matches between these teams have totaled at least 5 goals. Also, the last two matches have been 4-1 victories for Manchester United and I wouldn't be surprised to see that type of game here. The team on their home pitch is a 3 to 1 money line favorite for a reason. The best value in this one in my opinion is to go over the total. That is the best way to play it and look for the host to roll in this one. 10* OVER the total in Manchester United |
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02-21-21 | Rhode Island v. George Washington OVER 139.5 | Top | 70-78 | Win | 100 | 13 h 10 m | Show |
Earliest Cash - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach CBB Rotation #793 Sunday 10* Top Play OVER the total in George Washington Colonials vs Rhode Island Rams @ 11:30 AM ET - When a team hasn't played a game in 5 weeks they are going to come out sloppy, there will be turnovers, there will be missed switches on defense, and the result will be opportunities for a lot of points in transition. This total first opened up at a 143 and has since dropped to a 139.5 as of the night before this early game for Sunday. I like the value after the line move here. Don't be surprised if this game turns into a bit of a run and gun affair because the Rams will look to run the Colonials right out of their own building. That is why Rhode Island is a big favorite here and they will certainly not show any mercy nor take their foot off the gas. The Rams have scored at least 80 points in each of their last two meetings with George Washington. The Colonials enter this game allowing 75 points at home this season. Rhode Island enters this game allowing 72 points per game on the road this season. The Rams allow 60 shot attempts per game on the season and GW is allowing 62 shots per game when a host this season. In other words, this game will have a better pace than you might expect and it will have a bit more run and gun too as George Washington can't afford to sit back and constantly get into half-court sets. First game after 5 weeks off is going to see a lot more of just pure talent trying to take over and score the ball quickly. 10* OVER the total in George Washington |
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02-20-21 | Warriors v. Hornets OVER 230.5 | Top | 100-102 | Loss | -112 | 11 h 2 m | Show |
Contrarian Crusher - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NBA Rotation #523 Saturday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Charlotte Hornets vs Golden State Warriors @ 8:05 ET - The Warriors are in the 2nd game of a back to back and yesterday's game at Orlando flew over the total. Look for this to do the same as the over is 12-4 in the Hornets last 16 games. Charlotte comes in with fresh legs as they have not played in nearly a week. Look for the Hornets to push the pace here as they are averaging 119 points per game last 9 games. Golden State is averaging 123 points their last 5 road games and they continue to pile up points in recent weeks. Non-conference match-up with very little defense expected here. Recent meetings between these teams stayed under the total but the situation here as well as the way these teams have been playing of late dictates an over. 10* OVER the total in Charlotte |
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02-20-21 | Islanders +108 v. Penguins | Top | 2-3 | Loss | -100 | 9 h 34 m | Show |
TV Game of the Week - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NHL Rotation #5 Saturday 10* Top Play New York Islanders Money Line (+) @ Pittsburgh Penguins @ 7:05 ET - Penguins got a rare dominating win, 4-1, over an Islanders team that had been playing very well. That happened on Thursday and now, on Saturday, the Isles get a chance at payback! New York had been on an 8-game points streak plus had won 5 of 6 games prior to that ugly loss to the Pens. In those 5 wins the Islanders allowed an average of only 1.2 goals per game and this is typical Isles hockey under head coach Barry Trotz. That is what I am expecting to see tonight as they bounce back from the loss and take advantage of this shot at immediate revenge. Not only are the Islanders the better team 5 on 5 in terms of limiting opponents chances, they also are the better team from a special teams perspective thus far this season. In comparison with the Penguins, the Isles have been the better team on the power play and on the penalty kill. 10* NEW YORK ISLANDERS |
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02-20-21 | Texas Tech +1.5 v. Kansas | Top | 61-67 | Loss | -109 | 6 h 48 m | Show |
Big 12 Game of the Year - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach CBB Rotation #639 Saturday 10* Top Play Texas Tech Red Raiders (+) @ Kansas Jayhawks @ 2 ET - The Red Raiders have had a layoff due to a combination of weather and covid issues forcing postponements. That can, of course, be detrimental to a team. However, Texas Tech is not a normal team as they are one of the best teams in the nation and they are also fighting mad here. Their most recent game left the players and the coach fuming and they have been waiting a long time to get back on the floor and they will make the most of this opportunity today. The Red Raiders also have lost 3 games against Kansas including the most recent one by a single point in December. That said, Texas Tech is hell bent on revenge here and I am well aware of the fact that the Jayhawks have been playing better and winning some games. The key here though is who they faced. Now Kansas is in more of a dog fight style of game here and the last 5 times they have played a game with a spread either way that was 5 or less points, they have gone 0-5 SU and ATS. The Jayhawks simply aren't the same team they used to be and they already got blasted at Allen Fieldhouse earlier this season. I am not saying Kansas will get blasted here but I am saying the Red Raiders get the road win. Payback time here. 10* TEXAS TECH |
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02-20-21 | Everton v. Liverpool OVER 3 | Top | 2-0 | Loss | -101 | 15 h 36 m | Show |
Total of the Week - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach EPL Saturday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Liverpool vs Everton @ 12:30 ET - Liverpool has been struggling in premier league action but certainly carries some momentum into this game after a big 2-0 win over RB Leipzig in UEFA Champions League action earlier this week. That should get Liverpool going again on the attack in this one as they look to rectify their recent struggles on their home pitch. However, in their last two premier league matches they have conceded a total of 7 goals and that is why I am looking at the over in this one. Everton enters this fixture having conceded an average of 3 goals per match across their last 4 in all competitions. Their last premier league fixture as travelers ended in a 3-3 draw. Their match-up earlier this season with Liverpool, with Everton as the host, also ended in a 2-2 draw and their was questionable play in that game that resulted in a couple of injuries for the visitors. That said, we should see another exciting match here with no shortage of emotion and energy in what is, incredibly, the 289th meeting between these foes. That said, I am looking for the result to be plenty of goals. The last 4 matches for Everton across all competitions have averaged 5.3 goals per fixture. Liverpool has confidence after the 2-0 win over RB Leipzig but they still have been conceding far too many goals and I would not be surprised to see this match-up see each club concede at least twice. That said, the total being posted at 3 goals is offering solid value. 10* OVER the total in Liverpool |
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02-19-21 | Bulls v. 76ers -9 | Top | 105-112 | Loss | -110 | 12 h 48 m | Show |
Eastern Conference Game of the Year - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NBA Rotation #506 Friday 10* Top Play Philadelphia 76ers (-) vs Chicago Bulls @ 7:35 ET - Two games ago the Sixers had Ben Simmons on the floor but played without Joel Embiid. Then the very next game Embiid was back but Simmons missed. The 76ers still built a 29 point lead in that game and led by about 15 to 20 points at a minimum from that point on but found a way to blow the cover late against the Rockets. I do not expect a repeat of that here with both stars back together on the floor tonight. Also, the Bulls are still without Lauri Markkanen and Otto Porter and those two forwards average a combined 30.7 points and 12.4 rebounds a game. This one sets up well, as a result, to be a home blowout. Prior to the non-covering win versus Houston, the 76ers had been a perfect 4-0 ATS run when at home off an ATS loss. Once again off a non-cover and with big personnel edges in this one in terms of the injury situation, the 76ers roll and get a solid cover to improve to 5-1 ATS last 6 when at home and off a non-cover. 10* PHILADELPHIA |
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02-19-21 | Blackhawks v. Hurricanes OVER 6 | Top | 3-5 | Win | 100 | 8 h 6 m | Show |
NHL Network Crusher - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NHL Rotation #65 Friday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Carolina Hurricanes vs Chicago Blackhawks @ 7:05 ET - The Hurricanes are a strong team and still very potent and capable in the offensive zone. However, Carolina won't be the same in their own end of the ice until they get Petr Mrazek back between the pipes. That is why 8 of their last 9 games have totaled at least 7 goals and I suspect this one will as well. The Canes are coming off a loss and have scored an average of 5 goals per game this season when off a loss. However, Carolina has been struggling to keep the puck out of their own net without Mrazek in there and they have allowed at least 3 goals in 9 straight games. Keep in mind, the Hurricanes are a 2 to 1 favorite here on the money line for a reason so if the odds favor them allowing 3 goals but also favor them winning the game then...bingo...yes we should see at least a 4-3 final here. I know Chicago has been trending toward lower-scoring games but the Blackhawks two match-ups with the Canes this season saw both games go over the total and saw an average of 8 goals scored per game in regulation time of those games. More of the same expected here. 10* OVER the total in Carolina |
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02-19-21 | IUPU-Indianapolis v. Youngstown State OVER 150.5 | Top | 72-70 | Loss | -110 | 8 h 23 m | Show |
Horizon League Total of the Year - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach CBB Rotation #825 Friday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Youngstown State Penguins vs IUPUI Jaguars @ 5 ET - Both of these teams struggle defensively. IUPUI is allowing 75 points per game and 49% shooting when on the road. Youngstown State allowing 46% shooting on the season including 35% from three point land. The threes should be flying for the road team in this one as the Jaguars are hitting 39% of their 3-pointers in road games this season! The over is 5-0 in the Jags last 5 games and on an overall 7-1 run their last 8 games. I don't see that slowing down here. The Penguins are off an under at home but that was preceded by just 2 of their 7 preceding home games staying under the total. The Pens last 4 lined home games have seen them average 75.8 points per game. IUPUI has averaged scoring 81 points per game their last 5 games and, again, all 5 of those went over the total. Last season's meetings between these teams both flew over the total and averaged 161.5 points per game. This one will likely get into that range as well. Look for another high-scoring shootout here. 10* OVER the total in Youngstown State |
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02-19-21 | Leeds United v. Wolverhampton Wanderers OVER 2.5 | Top | 0-1 | Loss | -108 | 19 h 12 m | Show |
Daytime Dominator - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach EPL Friday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Wolverhampton vs Leeds @ 3 ET - I successfully used the over when Leeds visited Arsenal in their most recent game and so some of this write-up will look very familiar as we go down that same path here. I am well aware of the fact that Wolverhampton has not been allowing many goals in recent fixtures. However, I am also well of the fact that this is a mid-table battle with each club right next to each other and neither will want to settle for a draw here. To create separation in the table, a full 3 points is required and that means both clubs are going hard for the win. That means Leeds United will be on the attack here and force the issue as they know only one to play and that has been particularly true on the road. Leeds has averaged both scoring and conceding 2 goals per match as travelers this season. In other words seeing at least 4 goals scored in this one would not be a surprise in the least. Being aggressive on the attack and not being concerned about being beaten on the counter-attack has been the modus operandi for Leeds this season. After a scoreless draw in their most recent match as a host, Wolverhampton responds on their home pitch but will also have trouble containing a Leeds attack which has scored an average of 2 goals per match their last 5 as they have maintained their high-scoring pace quite consistently. More of the same here and I do not expect either team to have a clean sheet nor to settle for just a draw here as each want the 3 points. That means we should see at least a 2-1 final here and the total is only 2.5 goals. I'll take it. 10* OVER the total in Wolverhampton |
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02-18-21 | Raptors v. Bucks -6.5 | Top | 110-96 | Loss | -110 | 12 h 24 m | Show |
Contrarian Crusher - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NBA Rotation #570 Thursday 10* Top Play Milwaukee Bucks (-) vs Toronto Raptors @ 7:35 ET - The Bucks just lost to the Raptors by a double digit margin on Tuesday. They were favored by about a half dozen points in that game and yet got crushed. In Thursday's rematch, Milwaukee again favored by a similar amount. Must be a huge mistake by the odds makers, right? Long-time followers know how I feel about supposed mistakes by odds makers! The point is that this is set this way with good reason and, in typical contrarian fashion, I am backing the team no one will want here. The Bucks have lost 4 straight games but note that they are 2-0 this season when off a home loss and both victories came by a double digit margin. I expect this one will too. Lay it. 10* MILWAUKEE |
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02-18-21 | Islanders +105 v. Penguins | Top | 1-4 | Loss | -100 | 8 h 58 m | Show |
NHL Network Rout - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NHL Rotation #49 Thursday 10* Top Play New York Islanders Money Line (+) @ Pittsburgh Penguins @ 7:05 ET - A lot of this below is taken from Tuesday's write-up going against Pittsburgh and then has been updated because I am fading them again here for the same reasons! The Penguins are 7-6-1 this season but are the most fortunate team in the league in my opinion. Only 2 of their 7 wins have come in regulation. Their other 5 wins have come in the shootout or overtime. Also, one of the two wins that was a victory in regulation was a game in which Pittsburgh trailed going to the 3rd period but then won it with a goal with just a minute and a half to go in the game. So the Penguins did not dominate a single game out of their first dozen games this season. That was until they pulled away late in Sunday's win versus Washington for a 'not as easy as it looked' 6-3 win over the Capitals. By the way, Pittsburgh has 5 losses this season by a multiple-goal margin with 3 of those coming by 3 goals apiece! In summation, this team is still very over-rated right now so we are getting line value with an Islanders team that comes into this game surging plus seeking revenge for a loss in their most recent meeting with the Penguins and, naturally, that Pittsburgh win came in extra time! That Pens win was in the shootout and now the Islanders are looking to avenge that here! The Isles have been the much better club early this season in terms of special teams play with their penalty kill ranking an edge and their power play ranking an edge over that of the Penguins. Big time payback expected here and plus we get the Islanders at a plus money price here since they are on the road. I will take it as New York enters this game on an 8 game points streak. That includes having won 5 of last 6 with the lone loss being the aforementioned shootout loss to the Penguins. Look for a big response here. 10* NY ISLANDERS |
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02-18-21 | Iowa v. Wisconsin OVER 144.5 | Top | 77-62 | Loss | -115 | 10 h 25 m | Show |
Total of the Month - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach CBB Rotation #739 Thursday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Wisconsin Badgers vs Iowa Hawkeyes @ 7 ET - The Badgers are known for low-scoring games generally speaking but the Hawkeyes are at the other end of the spectrum for sure. That said, and with this total dropping from the upper 140s to the mid 140s, I like the value with the over in this one. These teams have trended under in recent meetings but 3-point shooting has had a lot do with it. For example, in their most recent meeting they totaled 130 points but had they made a normal percentage of the threes they took in that game it would have totaled 151 points. Iowa enters this game having averaged 87.4 points per game and knocking down 39.6% of three pointers on the season. Wisconsin enters this game with some respectable numbers on offense in home games as they have averaged 73.5 points per game and knocked down 40.3% of three pointers as a host this season. Poor shooting both inside and outside the arc is why their most recent meeting totaled just 130 but don't be surprised if this one makes up for that. The Hawkeyes have averaged 82.6 points per game their last 5 road games and are off a huge performance at Michigan State. The Badgers are off an ugly home performance versus Michigan but will make up for that here and did average 70.6 points per game in last 5 home games prior to facing the Wolverines. Look for the Badgers to take advantage of a Hawkeyes defense allowing 77.6 points per game as travelers this season. 10* OVER the total in Wisconsin |
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02-17-21 | Rockets v. 76ers -10.5 | Top | 113-118 | Loss | -105 | 10 h 44 m | Show |
ESPN Smash Pass - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NBA Rotation #556 Wednesday 10* Top Play Philadelphia 76ers (-) vs Houston Rockets @ 7:35 ET - 76ers will have Joel Embiid back tonight plus they are back on their home floor where they are known for dominating. After 3 straight losses - all on the road - the Sixers can't wait to come out strong at home and take out their frustration someone. That someone is the downtrodden Rockets and they should provide the perfect punching bag for Philly to take advantage. Houston has cleaned house this season and now is struggling ever since. The Rockets enter this game having lost 6 straight games. Also, Houston's last five road losses have all come by 12 or more points and, in fact, the average margin of defeat has been a very ugly 21 points per loss! That said, you can see why I am expecting a blowout home win for Philly here and this is a rare case in which I am willing to lay big points. The 76ers need a big win and the Rockets continue to get crushed in road games. More of the same here. 10* PHILADELPHIA |
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02-17-21 | Marquette v. Butler -2 | Top | 73-57 | Loss | -108 | 10 h 16 m | Show |
Big East Beast - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach CBB Rotation #672 Wednesday 10* Butler Bulldogs (-) vs Marquette Golden Eagles @ 6:30 ET - The Bulldogs lost by 3 at Marquette two weeks ago but couple of important notes about that. One is that this is the only win that the Golden Eagles have had in their last 7 games! Another is that when you look at the box score for that game it is somewhat of a miracle that Marquette even won that game. The Golden Eagles took only 39 shots from the field but hit 61% of them. That high shooting percentage will most definitely not be repeated on the road. Also, the Bulldogs had just 9 turnovers in the game while Marquette had 22. Again, bit of a miracle that the Golden Eagles somehow held on to win that game. Now it is payback time and I like the fact that Butler is at home for this one. The Bulldogs have won 6 of 9 home games this season while Marquette is just 2-6 ATS in road games on the season. Butler has won 3 of its last 4 home games and that included knocking off Creighton when the Bluejays were ranked #8 in the nation. They can play with anyone here at Hinkle Fieldhouse and I expect a solid home win here after they arguably deserved much better in the first meeting in Milwaukee a few weeks ago. 10* BUTLER |
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02-17-21 | Panthers v. Hurricanes -131 | Top | 4-3 | Loss | -131 | 8 h 40 m | Show |
NHL Network Blowout Rout - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NHL Rotation #82 Wednesday 10* Top Play Carolina Hurricanes Money Line (-) vs Florida Panthers @ 5:05 ET - The Hurricanes were as much as a -170 favorite here but have now dropped to as low as a -130 as of game day morning. I know Florida deserves respect but there is a reason this money line was so big on Carolina and it is absolutely justified. The Panthers are off a huge win at Tampa Bay. Beating the defending Stanley Cup champs on their home ice was a big deal whether the arena was packed with fans or not. Florida had not beaten the Lightning there since 2016 and they are, of course, instate rivals. That said, this is a flat spot for the Panthers and I do not see the Hurricanes slowing down here. The Canes are off a huge 7-3 win at Columbus and continue to perform well with James Reimer filling in between the pipes while Petr Mrazek deals with a thumb injury. Carolina is 7-1 in Reimer's 8 appearances and, while his overall numbers may not be spectacular, he is 3-0 with a 2.31 GAA on home ice. The Hurricanes had been dominating the Panthers in recent meetings but lost the most recent game and that was in Carolina about 1 year ago and they lost despite having a 44-22 edge in shots on goal. It is payback time here and the situation is a fantastic one for Florida to get crushed. There are rumors that Alex Nedeljkovic will get the start for the Hurricanes here but, keep in mind, he has allowed just 3 goals in each of his first two appearances and the young goalie got a confidence boost with a shootout win over Dallas in his most recent start. So this is part of what is driving this line lower but, in reality, all it is doing is giving us even more line value with a low line now available on the Canes. I will take it! 10* CAROLINA |
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02-17-21 | Manchester City v. Everton OVER 2.75 | Top | 3-1 | Win | 100 | 8 h 38 m | Show |
Daytime Dominator - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach EPL Wednesday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Everton vs Manchester City @ 3:15 ET - While it is true that Manchester City concedes the fewest goals of any club in the premier league this season, the fact is that if a hiccup is to happen it is more likely to occur on enemy pitch. In this case City is traveling to meet Everton and the host is expected to get a big boost with the upcoming return of Dominic Calvert-Lewin. He has already scored 13 goals in this campaign. Even if he ends up unavailable for this match, his imminent return is boosting spirits already. Everton is off a disappointing effort as they fell 2-0 to Fulham. However, prior to that defeat, Everton had scored an average of 3.3 goals in their last 3 matches across all competitions. Everton has conceded an average of 3 goals per match in their last 3 matches across all competitions. Manchester City, even likely without the services of Ilkay Gundogan in this one, has so much firepower and scoring depth that I would not be surprised to see them get us the win on this total play all by themselves. Across all competitions, Manchester City has averaged 3.3 goals their last 3 matches. Look for their high-scoring trend to continue as they easily could have scored more against Tottenham in their most recent game. Keep in mind too, City had scored 4 against Liverpool in their prior premier league match-up too. They stay hot on the attack in this one. 10* OVER the total in Everton |
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02-16-21 | Capitals +110 v. Penguins | Top | 3-1 | Win | 110 | 9 h 59 m | Show |
NBC Sports Network Rout - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NHL Rotation #29 Tuesday 10* Top Play Washington Capitals Money Line (+) @ Pittsburgh Penguins @ 7:05 ET - The Penguins are 7-5-1 this season but are the most fortunate team in the league in my opinion. Only 2 of their 7 wins has come in regulation. Their other 5 wins have come in the shootout or overtime. Also, one of the two wins that was a victory in regulation was a game in which Pittsburgh trailed going to the 3rd period but then won it with a goal with just a minute and a half to go in the game. So the Penguins did not dominate a single game out of their first dozen games this season. That was until they pulled away late in Sunday's win versus Washington for a 'not as easy as it looked' 6-3 win over the Capitals. By the way, Pittsburgh has 4 losses by a multiple-goal margin with 3 of those coming by 3 goals apiece! In summation, this team is still very over-rated right now so we are getting line value with a Capitals team that despises them. Yes it is Ovechkin versus Crobsy once again and the Penguins won the first three meetings this season and, naturally, the first two wins came in extra time! One win in the shootout and one in overtime. The only drawback against the Caps on Sunday was that it was their first game in a week but now, after getting their skating legs back in the defeat over the weekend, they are out for triple revenge and will be ready to go here now that they are game-tested again. Also, the Capitals have been the much better club in terms of special teams play with their penalty kill ranking an edge and their power play ranking a huge edge over that of the Penguins. Big time payback expected here and plus we get the Caps at a plus money price here since they are on the road. I will take it! 10* WASHINGTON |
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02-16-21 | Nuggets v. Celtics OVER 221.5 | Top | 99-112 | Loss | -110 | 10 h 30 m | Show |
Contrarian Crusher - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NBA Rotation #535 Tuesday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Boston Celtics vs Denver Nuggets @ 7:05 ET - The Celtics are off back to back unders but this was preceded by a 4-1 run to the over. Also, after an embarrassing loss at Washington where they scored just 91 points, Boston will bounce back on the offensive end and score a pile of points here at home. However, the Nuggets will score plenty here as well even if down a few guys. Keep in mind, players missing for Denver can also impact defensive play and I am certain that is why this total is in the 220 range even though the Nuggets are without some guys. The fact is that Denver is on a 10-3 run to the over. The Nuggets have scored an average of 120.4 points per game in those 10 games that went over the total. The Celtics respond off the embarrassing loss to the Wizards but do not be surprised if the Nuggets continue their high-scoring ways as well and this turns into a shootout. I also do not expect the defensive intensity of Denver to be at its best (not even close actually) considering that they are coming of a huge revenge win over the Lakers. 10* OVER the total in Boston |
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02-16-21 | Providence v. Connecticut -5.5 | Top | 61-73 | Win | 100 | 10 h 38 m | Show |
Big East Beast - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach CBB Rotation #608 Tuesday 10* Top Play Connecticut Huskies (-) vs Providence Friars @ 6:30 ET - The Huskies seek revenge for a loss by a double digit margin at Providence last week. Connecticut actually had 9 more shots from the field but the Friars had 18 more free throw attempts. That latter statistic will not be repeated here at Harry A. Gampel Pavilion in Storrs, CT. Also note that Connecticut's James Bouknight is very close to returning from his elbow injury. The Friars are off a road win but entered that game having lost 4 of last 5 away from home. Huskies are averaging 76 points per game at home this season while Providence has been held to an average of 62 points per game in last 3 road games. The revenge-minded home team gets a boost with the imminent return of Bouknight even if he is yet on the floor this evening. There is a mental aspect to this as well that their star's return is imminent. 10* CONNECTICUT |
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02-15-21 | Bulls v. Pacers OVER 226.5 | Top | 120-112 | Win | 100 | 10 h 58 m | Show |
Contrarian Crusher - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NBA Rotation #519 Monday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Indiana Pacers vs Chicago Bulls @ 7:05 ET - The Bulls Markkanen got hurt a few games back and including that game and through their most recent game Chicago has also been without Porter and Carter. That said, the Bulls scoring must be way down, right? After all, these are 3 of their top scorers. That is what is funny about how things often work. Without these guys one could say Chicago has been a little more disjointed. What happens then? Teams play a different style often when guys are out and others are stepping in. For the Bulls, this has led to them still scoring quite well - 114.6 ppg their last 5 games - but really starting to slip up on the defensive end as Chicago has allowed 120.5 ppg their last two games. Long-term the over is 6-2 in Bulls road games as their defense certainly is not known for traveling well and that is even when their healthy. That said, and with this total dropping from a 230 to the mid-220s this morning, we have excellent line value here. The Pacers have averaged 118 points their last two games plus are off a very high-scoring win at Atlanta which totaled 238 points. The over is 4-0 in the last 4 meetings between these teams and they totaled 231 points in their only meeting this season. Their most recent home game was low-scoring but it came against a strong Utah team. Prior to that, 6 of Indiana's last 7 home games totaled at least 227 points and this one will too! 10* OVER the total in Indiana |
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02-15-21 | Virginia v. Florida State UNDER 130 | Top | 60-81 | Loss | -110 | 11 h 31 m | Show |
Total of the Week - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach CBB Rotation #844 Monday 10* Top Play UNDER the total in Florida State Seminoles vs Virginia Cavaliers @ 7 ET - Big game involving top two teams in the ACC. I am well aware of the fact that the Seminoles are on an over streak but the Cavaliers are going to dictate that this game will be an ugly grinder. It is just the way Virginia games are and, especially in a big one like this, I do not see the Cavs allowing there to be any tempo in this game. The Cavaliers are so good at dictating tempo and forcing a slow pace. Virginia's last 5 games have resulted in 4 unders and those games have averaged just 112.7 points per game. We are getting extra value with this total posted in the 130 range because of the Seminoles long-term scoring process. However, do not overlook the Noles defensive play! FSU is off a high-scoring OT win versus Wake Forest but that was an usual situation for them Saturday as it was their first game in over two weeks. Prior to the shootout with WF, the Seminoles 10 prior wins saw them allow just 64.4 points per game. Now ratchet that down many notches because of playing slow-paced Virginia and you can see why I would not be surprised to see this game fall into the 115 to 120 range for total points. 10* UNDER the total in Florida State |
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02-15-21 | Blues v. Coyotes +108 | Top | 0-1 | Win | 108 | 5 h 55 m | Show |
Afternoon Annihilation - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NHL Rotation #6 Monday 10* Top Play Arizona Coyotes Money Line (+) vs St Louis Blues @ 4:05 ET - After giving up the tying goal with less than 6 minutes to go in the game Saturday and then losing in overtime to these same Blues, the Coyotes are ready to execute payback Monday. This game is again on their home ice and Arizona has now lost back to back games at home to St Louis. This followed a stretch that saw the Coyotes win 4 of 5 games and that included 3 straight over the Blues. These teams are playing the rubber match of a set of 7 straight games due to quirky scheduling as a result of covid issues around the league and I look for a huge effort from the angry home side here. Arizona had allowed an average of only 1.5 goals per game their last 4 home games prior to now allowing 4 goals in regulation time of each of their last two games against the Blues. Now, after a day off Sunday to regroup, look for the Coyotes to return to their stingy ways on defense and in net and they will frustrate St Louis on their way to a home win here. 10* ARIZONA |
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02-15-21 | Newcastle United v. Chelsea -1.75 | Top | 0-2 | Win | 50 | 17 h 3 m | Show |
Daytime Dominator - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach EPL Monday 10* Top Play Chelsea Goal Line -1.75 goals vs Newcastle United @ 3 ET - We have to win this match by a multiple goal margin to cash our ticket but Chelsea truly looks like a different club since Thomas Tuchel took over managerial duties. Coming off a casual effort in English FA Cup action against Barnsley, the stakes are again high now in Premier League action and Chelsea should dominate Newcastle. This game is on Chelsea's home pitch and they have allowed just 1 goal total in their last 5 matches. With that type of defensive dominance, a clean sheet can be expected here. So, the question becomes, can Chelsea score at least 2 goals here? Well, after the listless performance against Barnsley which included a lot of playing time for younger players, Chelsea will have the big guns back for this one and they will be taking on a Newcastle side dealing with numerous injury issues. Also, Newcastle has allowed at least 2 goals in 4 of their last 5 matches and this was all against clubs that certainly have not been playing at the peak level that Chelsea has since Tuchel took over. That said, this one should be dominated by the team on its home pitch. Lay it! CHELSEA -1.75 goals |
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02-14-21 | Spurs v. Hornets OVER 229 | Top | 122-110 | Win | 100 | 21 h 5 m | Show |
Contrarian Crusher - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NBA Rotation #507 Sunday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Charlotte Hornets vs San Antonio Spurs @ 7:05 ET - The Spurs are off a big win at Atlanta where they totaled 125 points despite being able to back off and score only 15 in the 4th quarter! The Hornets are also off a big win as they scored 120 points in their win over Minnesota which was also on Friday like the Spurs. That said, I like to look for overs when teams are off of high-scoring wins as there tends to be a natural let up on defense. Essentially it is just a case of thinking your offense can bail you out of anything so why worry too much about defense? Note that the Hornets have scored an average of 120 points their past 8 games. Also, holding true to what I mentioned earlier, when Charlotte is 5-1 to the over the last 6 times when off a win. Being at home here, the Hornets will continue to push the pace and the Spurs come into this one with plenty of confidence after their big win at Atlanta. Overall, the Hornets are 11-3 to the over their last 14 games. 10* OVER the total in Charlotte |
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02-14-21 | Capitals +114 v. Penguins | Top | 3-6 | Loss | -100 | 17 h 49 m | Show |
Game of the Month - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NHL Rotation #1 Sunday 10* Top Play Washington Capitals Money Line (+) @ Pittsburgh Penguins @ 3:05 ET - The Penguins are 6-5-1 this season but are the most fortunate team in the league in my opinion. Only 1 of their 6 wins has come in regulation. Their other 5 wins have come in the shootout or overtime. Also, that lone victory was a game in which Pittsburgh trailed going to the 3rd period but then won it with a goal with just a minute and a half to go in the game. So the Penguins have not dominated a single game out of a dozen games this season. But, by the way, Pittsburgh has 4 losses by a multiple-goal margin with 3 of those coming by 3 goals apiece! In summation, this team is very over-rated right now so we are getting line value with a Capitals team that despises them. Yes it is Ovechkin versus Crobsy once again and the Penguins won the first two meetings this season and, naturally, both wins came in extra time! One win in the shootout and one in overtime. The only drawback against the Caps here is that this is their first game in a week but they are out for double revenge and will be ready to go here with fresh legs. Also, the Capitals have been the much better club in terms of special teams play with their penalty kill ranking an edge and their power play ranking a huge edge over that of the Penguins. Big time payback expected here and plus we get the Caps at a plus money price here since they are on the road. I will take it! 10* WASHINGTON |
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02-14-21 | Marquette +7.5 v. Seton Hall | Top | 51-57 | Win | 100 | 18 h 31 m | Show |
Big East Beast - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach CBB Rotation #803 Sunday 10* Top Play Marquette Golden Eagles (+) @ Seton Hall Pirates @ 3 ET - The Golden Eagles will be ready to bounce back after an embarrassing blowout loss at Villanova by a 32-point margin. That was their first really bad loss of the new year as in 2021 the average margin of defeat had been 6.4 points per game. That said, and considering they are in a good spot, Marquette is offering significant line value here after opening up at about an 8 point dog. The Pirates are in the perfect spot to struggle as they are off back to back wins on the road as a very small favorite. Now Seton Hall has not played in over a week while Marquette played on Wednesday. After that blowout loss to the Wildcats, the Golden Eagles will be ready to respond here as they look for some revenge against the Pirates. Seton Hall has actually won 5 straight games against Marquette so payback is on order here. Look for the Pirates to fall to 0-3 ATS in their last 3 home games as they have lost back to back games both SU and ATS and the Golden Eagles challenge them all the way after getting embarrassed on Wednesday. 10* MARQUETTE |
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02-14-21 | Leeds United v. Arsenal OVER 3 | Top | 2-4 | Win | 100 | 15 h 54 m | Show |
TV Total of the Week - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach EPL Sunday 10* Top Play OVER 3 goals in Arsenal vs Leeds United @ 11:30 AM ET - I am well aware of the fact that Arsenal has not been allowing goals on their home pitch in recent fixtures. However, I am also well of the fact that this is a mid-table battle with each club right next to each other and neither will want to settle for a draw here. To create separation in the table, a full 3 points is required and that means both clubs are going hard for the win. That means Leeds United will be on the attack here and force the issue as they know only one to play and that has been particularly true on the road. Leeds has averaged both scoring and conceding 2 goals per match as travelers this season. In other words seeing at least 4 goals scored in this one would not be a surprise in the least. Being aggressive on the attack and not being concerned about being beaten on the counter-attack has been the modus operandi for Leeds this season. After a 1-0 loss in most recent match, Arsenal responds on their home pitch but will also have trouble containing a Leeds attack which has scored an average of 2 goals per match their last 4 as they have maintained their high-scoring pace quite consistently. 10* OVER the total in Arsenal |
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02-13-21 | Bruins v. Islanders +119 | Top | 2-4 | Win | 119 | 7 h 22 m | Show |
10* NEW YORK ISLANDERS - The Bruins are certainly playing extremely well but they are also leading a bit of a charmed life so to speak. Boston has been fortunate in some tight wins lately and now plays the 2nd night of a back to back plus faces an Islanders team that has found their game again recently. Off a tough shootout loss to the Penguins which was preceded by back to back wins the Islanders are in solid bounce back mode here. The Isles never trailed in the game against Pittsburgh and gave up the tying goal with under 20 seconds to go. It was a truly bad beat as they had an opportunity (easy one) at the empty net too but the net was off its moorings and so they couldn't ice the game a little before that late Pens goal. All in all the Isles have been playing better of late and they now come in hungry off a tough loss while the Bruins in the 2nd game of a back to back and the win took a lot of effort as Boston had to fight like hell to hang on for a 1-0 win. This one goes to the home dog in my opinion as the Bruins struggle in the back to back and the Islanders come out fighting mad after that loss to the Pens. The Isles have not lost a game in regulation in over two weeks. 10* NEW YORK ISLANDERS |
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02-13-21 | Villanova v. Creighton OVER 143.5 | Top | 70-86 | Win | 100 | 8 h 13 m | Show |
Total of the Week - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach CBB Rotation #693 Saturday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Creighton Bluejays vs Villanova Wildcats @ 5 ET - Villanova's defensive numbers haven't been nearly as strong as in recent seasons. The Wildcats are allowing opponents to hit 45.5% from the field including 37.2% from three point land. Creighton loves to fire up 3-balls, particularly when at home, and the Bluejays are hitting 50% from the field including 37% from beyond the arc in their home games this season. Creighton is averaging 83 points per game this season when at home but Villanova is winning a ton of games again this season thanks to very consistent scoring. The Wildcats are scoring an average of 79 points per game this season. The over is 7-4 in Bluejays home games this season and 6-3 in Villanova's conference games this season. Look for these trends to continue here as I expect both teams to get into the 70s in this one. The Cats have been into the 70s in all but 2 of their 15 games this season. The Jays have scored at least 70 in 9 of their last 10 home games. 10* OVER the total in Creighton |
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02-13-21 | 76ers -110 v. Suns | Top | 111-120 | Loss | -110 | 5 h 25 m | Show |
Game of the Week - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NBA Rotation #563 Saturday 10* Top Play Philadelphia 76ers (-) @ Phoenix Suns @ 3 ET - The 76ers are off a loss at Portland Thursday but the Trail Blazers made 11 more three pointers than cold-shooting Philly did that night. The fact that Philadelphia lost the game by a margin of only 4 points despite getting outscored by 33 points from beyond the arc says a lot actually! Plus, keep in mind, the Sixers had won 4 straight road games heading into that one. That said, I like the value here with Philly now available at essentially a pick'em price and coming off a loss. Philly is a perfect 4-0 the last 4 times they have entered a game off a loss. This is a double revenge game for the Sixers as the Suns took both meetings last season. I know Phoenix comes into this game on a hot streak but their two most recent wins have seen them allow an average of 118.5 points per game. The 76ers will be in lockdown mode on defense after the loss to the Blazers. Philly has allowed just 107.7 points per game the last 3 times they have entered a game off a loss. Steals, blocks, rebounding...the Sixers have the edge in this match-up in all 3 categories and I like the situational edge here as well. 10* PHILADELPHIA |
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02-13-21 | Tottenham Hotspur v. Manchester City OVER 2.75 | Top | 0-3 | Win | 50 | 16 h 44 m | Show |
TV Total Annihilation - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach EPL Saturday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Manchester City vs Tottenham @ 12:30 ET - Tottenham beat Manchester City earlier this season but have struggled since. However, a lot of that had to do with the absence of Harry Kane and he is back now. Tottenham is averaging 2 goals per match on the road this season while Manchester City is averaging 2 goals per match on their home pitch. The fact is this fixture could easily get to 4 goals. Manchester City has been on fire with wins coming constantly since the loss to the Hotspur earlier in the campaign. Now they seek revenge and they are not going to get comfortable with any lead in this match. Manchester City is out for big time revenge here and will stay strong on the attack in this one no matter the score. They are still angry about the 2-0 defeat at Tottenham earlier this season. With Kane now back for Tottenham I expect the Hotspur to get their fair share of scoring chances in this one but the host will not be denied and this should lead to plenty of scoring here. 10* OVER the total in Manchester City |
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02-12-21 | Spurs +2 v. Hawks | Top | 125-114 | Win | 100 | 23 h 53 m | Show |
Earliest Cash - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NBA Rotation #545 Friday 10* Top Play San Antonio Spurs (+) @ Atlanta Hawks @ 7:35 ET - The Spurs are off home loss and it was a bad one as they lost by a margin of 23 points. That type of loss often easier to bounce back from than the one the Hawks just had which was a one point loss at Dallas. Atlanta did win their most recent home game but that was preceded by 4 straight losses for the Hawks as a host. As for the Spurs they have been road warriors this season with a 7-3 mark away from home both SU and ATS. San Antonio has played the tougher schedule so far this season. Also, the Spurs are at that time of the year where they would take their annual rodeo trip and they will not be back in San Antonio until their game over two weeks from now on the 27th. Traditionally the Spurs have done very well on this annual road trip and this is the first of 7 away games. Also, Atlanta is just 4-6 SU against Western Conference teams this season while the Spurs are a perfect 3-0 SU against Eastern Conference teams this season. Look for that trend to reach 4-0 after the final horn sounds on this one. 10* SAN ANTONIO |
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02-12-21 | Bruins v. Rangers +150 | Top | 1-0 | Loss | -100 | 21 h 16 m | Show |
Earliest Cash - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NHL Rotation #56 Friday 10* Top Play New York Rangers Money Line (+) vs Boston Bruins @ 7:05 ET - Igor Shesterkin should be back between the pipes for the Rangers in this one and he was great last season and has continued his fantastic play right into this season. The Bruins are a great team but they were in a dog-fight with New York on Wednesday and now they meet again on Friday. Boston eked out the win but I like the Rangers now with having their top goalie again for this one. Also, New York has been playing quite well even in the defensive zone and this is different from Rangers teams of recent seasons. While it may seem tough to fade a strong team like the Bruins here, they are way over-priced if you have been paying attention to how well the Rangers have been playing of late and also the fact that Boston has certainly had some good fortune of late for sure. Bruins are strong solid team but no way should Rangers be a +150 dog here, especially after how their match-up played out on Wednesday night. It is time for some home dog payback here. 10* NEW YORK RANGERS |
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02-12-21 | Temple +6.5 v. Cincinnati | Top | 69-71 | Win | 100 | 23 h 1 m | Show |
Contrarian Crusher - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach CBB Rotation #897 Friday 10* Top Plays Temple Owls (+) @ Cincinnati Bearcats @ 7 ET - The last 4 games between these teams have been decided by an average of just 3.8 points and now the Owls are a 6.5 dog in this one and it is a revenge spot. Temple lost at home against Cincinnati a week ago. The Owls enter this one off 3 straight losses but they got the big dog cover with a strong effort at Wichita State on Sunday. Temple is now on a 3-0 ATS run in road games and I look for the Owls to continue that strong run as travelers here. Though the Bearcats got the cover at Temple a week ago, Cincinnati is 2-9 ATS in their other games this season and I feel they are over-valued in this one. Opponents are actually shooting 47.5% against the Bearcats in their home games this season while the Owls are holding opponents to 40.9% in their road games this season. I am grabbing the hungry, undervalued dog in this one. 10* TEMPLE |
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02-11-21 | Pacers v. Pistons +3 | Top | 111-95 | Loss | -109 | 23 h 23 m | Show |
Contrarian Crusher - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NBA Rotation #534 Thursday 10* Top Play Detroit Pistons (+) vs Indiana Pacers @ 8 ET - While it might seem hard to trust a 6-18 team against a team playing around .500 this season, in typical contrarian fashion I am on the ugly dog here. In this case the Pistons have a rest edge as they were off last night after hosting the Nets on Tuesday. As for the Pacers, they were at Brooklyn last night to face those same Nets. That said, tough spot for Indiana here. Also, as bad as the Pistons full season record is, they have been more competitive of late. Detroit has won 3 straight home games outright as home dogs and that was against tough teams - Nets, Lakers, 76ers! Going further back, the Pistons are on a 7-2 ATS run last 9 home games so they have been strong as a host this season. The Pacers entered last night's game at Brooklyn on a 3-9 ATS run and I look for Indiana's covering struggles to continue here. 10* DETROIT |
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02-11-21 | Penguins v. Islanders -102 | Top | 4-3 | Loss | -102 | 21 h 38 m | Show |
Earliest Cash - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NHL Rotation #30 Thursday 10* Top Play New York Islanders Money Line (-) vs Pittsburgh Penguins @ 7:05 ET - The Penguins have lost 6 of 7 road games this season plus will be playing just their 2nd game in the past 10 days! Rust could be a factor for sure for Pittsburgh whereas the Islanders have played twice in the past 5 days. Also, the home/road dichotomy of the Pens meshes well with that of the Isles here. Prior to their most recent game being a road win over the Rangers, the Islanders had 9 straight games in which the home team won every single game. Look for that strong home trending to continue here. Also, the Isles have held the upper hand in recent match-ups between these teams as they have taken 9 of 12 including 3 in a row. Look for the streak to reach 4 in a row here as the Pens Evgeni Malkin is listed as questionable for this one too and that could be an issue for Pittsburgh in this one as well. These teams have each played 11 games but the Penguins have allowed 3.7 goals per game this season while the Islanders have allowed only 2.5 goals per game this season. Pittsburgh also has some injury issues with some D-men heading into this game too in terms of injury concerns. Home ice and health make the difference here. 10* NEW YORK ISLANDERS |
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02-11-21 | Purdue +2.5 v. Minnesota | Top | 68-71 | Loss | -115 | 20 h 33 m | Show |
Earliest Cash - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach CBB Rotation #737 Thursday 10* Top Play Purdue Boilermakers (+) @ Minnesota Golden Gophers @ 5 ET - Early line movement toward Minnesota already and I understand that because of the revenge angle. However, there is a match-up issue here. The Boilermakers outrebounded the Golden Gophers by 17 in the first meeting and it was not entirely a fluke. Minnesota has been outrebounded by a margin of 2 boards per game this season while Purdue is outrebounding opponents by 7 boards a game on the season. Comparing these two teams' stats on the season, the Boilermakers are also the better shooting team. Purdue has won 6 of 8 games entering this one while Minnesota is off a win but that was preceded by 6 losses in 8 games. The Boilermakers also have a rest edge here having not played since the 6th while the Gophers just played on the 8th. Minnesota has a great home record this season but the odds maker set this line very low with good reason. Don't let the number scare you away. Look for the road team to roll in this one. 10* PURDUE |
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02-10-21 | Hawks v. Mavs -4 | Top | 117-118 | Loss | -110 | 25 h 29 m | Show |
Non-Conf Game of the Year - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NBA Rotation #520 Wednesday 10* Top Play Dallas Mavericks (-) vs Atlanta Hawks @ 7:35 ET - The Hawks are off a big win versus the Raptors Saturday and that snapped a 3-game losing streak for Atlanta. That said everything must be "all good" again and the Hawks back on track, right? No, not at all! They were very fortunate to not only beat the Raptors but especially by a double digit margin! Toronto had 97 shots from the field compared to just 74 for Atlanta. The Hawks had 18 turnovers compared to just 6 for the Raptors. So how did this win happen? Insane shooting that will not be repeated for Atlanta on the road here. The Hawks shot 57% from the field and made a ridiculous 19 of 36 from three point land. Just crazy numbers for shooting and that leads to value here with the Mavs as short home favorite. Dallas has gotten back on track with wins in 3 of its last 4, including a win at Atlanta, but the Mavericks are still flying under the radar with the betting markets because they are on a long-term poor ATS run. That can lead to special value in certain situations and that is precisely what we are seeing right here. Lay it! 10* DALLAS |
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02-10-21 | Maple Leafs v. Canadiens -105 | Top | 4-2 | Loss | -105 | 24 h 60 m | Show |
Contrarian Crusher - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NHL Rotation #26 Wednesday 10* Top Play Montreal Canadiens Money Line (-) vs Toronto Maple Leafs @ 7:35 ET - The Canadiens never trailed the Maple Leafs on opening night and even had a two-goal lead during the game. However, Montreal ended up on the wrong end of an overtime loss and they have had to wait 4 weeks for this rematch and I expect them to make the most of it. This time they meet in Montreal and note that in the first hitting the Habs had 5 more blocked shots and also had 32 hits compared to just 14 for the Leafs. I like what this Montreal club is doing early this season and I expect them to again be very aggressive and hard-hitting here against the Maple Leafs. Montreal knows they are hosting the team that most project to be the top team in the Canadian Division and this match-up means a ton to the Canadiens. Montreal has allowed only 2.2 goals per game their last 8 games. Toronto is off back to back wins over a struggling Canucks team but that was preceded by a 4-game stretch in which the Maple Leafs allowed at least 3 goals in all 4 games. I look for the gritty, revenge-minded Habs to get a hard-fought home ice win here. 10* MONTREAL |
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02-10-21 | Connecticut v. Providence +1.5 | Top | 59-70 | Win | 100 | 21 h 1 m | Show |
Big East Beast - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach CBB Rotation #644 Wednesday 10* Top Play Providence Friars (+) vs Connecticut Huskies @ 4 ET - The Huskies are a different team without leading scorer James Bouknight and he is out indefinitely with an elbow injury. Connecticut is now on a 1-3 SU/ATS run without him. As for Providence, reinforcements are very near to returning as both Jared Bynum and Jimmy Nichols are nearing returns. So when someone casually looks at this game, they see an 8-4 team laying just 1.5 points at a 9-10 team. However, as you can see, there is absolutely a reason this game is priced this way so do not be fooled by the 4-win team in this range. The Friars are off a home loss in which they allowed 92 points and they will be ready to respond big here and improve to 5-0 this season when off a game in which they allowed 79 or more points. Another disadvantage for UConn here is this is just their 2nd game in the past 2 weeks. The home team in a much better spot here from a situational and personnel perspective. 10* PROVIDENCE |
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02-09-21 | St. John's +2.5 v. Butler | Top | 73-76 | Loss | -106 | 13 h 6 m | Show |
Big East Beast - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach CBB Rotation #631 Tuesday 10* Top Play St John's Red Storm (+) @ Butler Bulldogs @ 9 ET - The Red Storm are red hot entering this game on a 6-0 SU run and 8-0 ATS run. St John's next game after this is not for a full week. That said, the Red Storm can absolutely lay it all on the line here with a strong aggressive effort. Speaking of aggressive play, that is the reason St John's is averaging twice as many (10) steals per game as Butler is (5) this season. Turnovers were a key in the first meeting between these teams and that was a Red Storm home win by double digits. Now in this second meeting, because Butler is at home, the host is a popular choice. The line opened up with St John's -1.5 but has flipped and is now up to a -2.5 on the Bulldogs! Love the added value here with the road dog. Butler enters this game off a home win versus DePaul but this was preceded by a stretch that saw the Bulldogs go 3-7 over 10 games. Butler is simply not as strong this season and the Red Storm are surging. Not only do they do a better job in terms of steals and blocked shots, St John's also has been the better shooting team this season across all categories - from the field, free throws, and three pointers. Grab the road dog Red Storm here plus the points but expect an outright win. 10* ST JOHN'S |
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02-09-21 | Knicks v. Heat OVER 207 | Top | 96-98 | Loss | -110 | 11 h 31 m | Show |
Total of the Month - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NBA Rotation #503 Tuesday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Miami Heat vs New York Knicks @ 7:30 ET - We have got a low total to work with here and I know it is because of the Knicks long-term reputation this season as they have a penchant for unders. However, the fact is there is great value here. The total has gone from as high as a 209 to as low as a 206.5 and even though the Knicks are on a run that is only 2-3 to the over, all 5 of those games totaled at least 209 points. Also, even though the Heat have long been known as a lower-scoring grinder-type team, that has not been the case this season. Miami has averaged 110.3 points per game their last 6 games. The Heat have allowed an average of 112.1 points per game their last 16 games. These teams just met on Sunday and the game totaled "only" 212 points but that was enough for the over and was the 3rd straight over in meetings between these teams. That game was on pace for 238 points as of halftime and I feel the fact the scoring pace died in the 2nd half helps to give us even more value here in coming right back with another over. Look for the over trend to reach 4-0 in meetings between these teams. 10* OVER the total in Miami |
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02-09-21 | Oilers v. Senators OVER 6.5 | Top | 3-2 | Loss | -108 | 8 h 13 m | Show |
Situational Slaughter - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NHL Rotation #3 Tuesday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Ottawa Senators vs Edmonton Oilers @ 7:05 ET - Mike Smith returned for the Oilers last night and was fantastic in goal. However, with this being a back to back, the struggling Mikko Koskinen is expected to be back between the pipes tonight. Also, Ottawa used #1 goalie Matt Murray last night so that means the back-up Marcus Hogberg likely to get the start tonight. He is 0-4 with a 4.54 GAA this season. With back-up goalies involved and coming off a rare, low-scoring game last night, don't be surprised if this one gets a little crazy. Keep in mind, Ottawa is allowing 4 goals per game this season and Edmonton, prior to last night's game, was on a 6-game stretch that saw them allow 4 goals per game. I am expecting at least a 4-3 type game here but would not be surprised at all if we see 8 or more goals in this one. In other words, great value here. I'll take it. 10* OVER the total in Ottawa |
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02-08-21 | Raptors v. Grizzlies OVER 223.5 | Top | 128-113 | Win | 100 | 23 h 19 m | Show |
Contrarian Crusher - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NBA Rotation #563 Monday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Memphis Grizzlies vs Toronto Raptors @ 8 ET - The Grizzlies have trended under this season but Memphis has scored an average of 113.8 points during their current 7-3 run their last 10 games. The Grizzlies are on a 3-game losing streak, in part, because they have allowed 122.3 points their last 3 games. Now they host a Raptors team that is on a 5-0 run to the over and is 8-4 to the over in road games this season. Toronto has scored an average of 121.2 points per game their last 5 games. But the Raptors have allowed 121.5 points their last 4 road games. We get a rather low total here because of the long-term reputation of the Grizzlies. The key here in this situation is the set-up is perfect for big points from Memphis but the Raptors will not slow down either. As a result the Grizzlies and Raptors get into a back and forth tussle here with plenty of scoring. 10* OVER the total in Memphis |
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02-08-21 | Islanders +102 v. Rangers | Top | 2-0 | Win | 102 | 21 h 47 m | Show |
Earliest Cash - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NHL Rotation #67 Monday 10* Top Play New York Islanders Money Line (+) @ New York Rangers @ 7:05 ET - These rivals faced off in their first two games this season and the Islanders won the first in a shutout but then the Rangers took the 2nd game in an embarrassing 5-0 loss for the Isles. That said, the payback is coming here. The road team had won 4 straight meetings prior to the Rangers taking that game back on the 16th of January. Look for the road team dominance in this series to resume here. The Islanders got back on track with a win versus the Penguins Saturday and I look for the Isles to now build on that. They were so close with back to back losses coming after regulation and now that they got the over the hump they won't look back. This is a hockey club much better than the 5-game losing streak would lead you to believe. They were right on the cusp of turning things around and, now that they have done it, they keep it going while getting some revenge here. The Isles catch the Rangers at the right time as the Blueshirts are off key back to back wins over the Penguins and Capitals. The Pens had beaten them 3 straight times so they really wanted that one badly and then got the win over the Caps despite being outshot. The Rangers are still young defensively and the Islanders have the better blue line in my opinion which should key this revenge win. In the Isles 5-0 loss to the Rangers in their most recent meeting the Islanders actually had 20 blocked shots compared to just 6 for the Rangers and they out-hit them 31-22. Look for a physical revenging road team to key the payback here as well after that whitewashing. 10* NEW YORK ISLANDERS |
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02-08-21 | SMU v. East Carolina OVER 139 | Top | 71-56 | Loss | -110 | 19 h 29 m | Show |
ESPN Smash Pass - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach CBB Rotation #845 Monday 10* Top Play OVER the total in East Carolina Pirates vs SMU Mustangs @ 5 ET - Don't be fooled by the total here. The game between odds makers and the betting markets can be a funny thing. That said, why did this total open at a 139 when each of the Pirates 7 games in 2021 have had a posted total below that? Exactly! The average total posted in those 7 games was just 132.3 points. That said, do not let the number fool you as this one should fly over. The Pirates do hit a respectable 35% of their threes when at home and the Mustangs are hitting 35% of threes on the season even on the road where they are at 36% on the season. SMU is off a low-scoring hard-fought win that was their 2nd straight under but this followed 3 straight road overs that saw the Mustangs average 76.3 points per game. The Pirates will get their points at home but this is an East Carolina team that, prior to a low-scoring loss at Memphis, allowed 75.3 points their 4 prior games. So this game should be in the 76-70 range in my opinion and actually cracking the 150 mark would not surprise me at all. That said, the value is here for us. 10* OVER the total in East Carolina |
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02-08-21 | Crystal Palace v. Leeds United OVER 2.75 | Top | 0-2 | Loss | -118 | 19 h 1 m | Show |
TV Annihilation - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach EPL Monday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Leeds United vs Crystal Palace @ 3 PM ET - I am well aware of the fact that each club has some injuries including the Crystal Palace leading scorer, Wilfried Zaha, but this one has over written all over it! Crystal Palace has scored 5 goals their last 3 matches but this is also a club that has conceded 8 goals their last 4 matches. Leeds United has seen their matches average 3.5 goals per fixture on the campaign. 10 of the last 12 matches across all competitions for Leeds United have totaled at least 3 goals so there is excellent value here with this total. These clubs each have the same total points in the table at 29 and, that said, neither team wants to settle for a draw here. It is also unlikely that either club produces a clean sheet here as these two clubs have been two of the worst this season in terms of goals allowed. That said, at least a 2-1 final is highly likely here and I am fully expecting 4 or more goals in this one. 10* OVER the total in Leeds United |
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02-07-21 | Chiefs -3 v. Bucs | Top | 9-31 | Loss | -107 | 79 h 0 m | Show |
Game of the Month - Rickenbach NFL Rotation #101 Sunday 10* Top Play Kansas City Chiefs (-) @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ 6:30 ET - The irony here is incredible. The Chiefs are looking to become the first team to win back to back Super Bowls since the Tom Brady-led Patriots beat the Andy Reid-led Eagles back in 2004. This is Andy Reid's 3rd Super Bowl in his career and he finally gets his shot at Super Bowl revenge against Brady and, in getting a win here, would displace a Brady-led team in the record books as the most recent one to go back to back in the biggest game of them all in all of sports. I don't see Reid and the Chiefs being denied. This will be Reid's 32nd playoff game as a head coach and, as noted above, his 3rd Super Bowl. Tampa Bay is led by Bruce Arians and he is making his Super Bowl debut as a head coach and also entered this post-season 1-2 as a head coach in playoff action. I know this post-season has gone well for Arians and the Bucs but lets take a closer look. They faced a Redskins team without their starting QB and that didn't even belong in the playoffs really. Then they had a +4 turnover ratio against the Saints. Then they got outgained by the Packers in Green Bay but won the game thanks in part to horrible coaching on the part of GB. That will not happen here against Andy Reid and the Chiefs. Also, I love the fact that the Chiefs are just 2-8 ATS their last 10 games while the Buccaneers are on a 6-2 ATS run their last 8 games. Watch that flip in the final game of the year. Also, we certainly do not want a push but do note that 4 of the 5 Bucs losses came by 3 or more points while 15 of the Chiefs 16 wins have come by 3 or more points. This line was a 3.5 earlier but has come down to a solid -3 as of the Thursday before Super Bowl weekend. In other words, it is now "go time" for us. Time to pull the trigger. The fact the regular season meeting was only a 3 point win for the Chiefs despite a yardage edge of 114 is also helping to give us line value here. In what should be a very entertaining game, don't be surprised if coaching and special teams play a key factor in the final outcome and BOTH of those factors FAVOR the Chiefs in a big way here. 10* KANSAS CITY |
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02-07-21 | Kings v. Clippers -8.5 | Top | 113-110 | Loss | -105 | 17 h 59 m | Show |
Contrarian Crusher - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NBA Rotation #560 Sunday 10* Top Play Los Angeles Clippers (-) vs Sacramento Kings @ 3:05 ET - The Kings have won and covered 7 in a row so, in typical contrarian fashion, I am on the other side here. Sacramento is in a very tough spot here as this game starts at Noon local time and this is after the Kings were in action yesterday at home against Denver. Sacramento did get an upset win in that game while LA enters this game angry off an upset loss so the situation is perfect. That is why I am willing to lay points here as I expect the Clippers to go all out here and roll to a win by at least a dozen points. Los Angeles does not play again until Wednesday and also they do not have another home game until next Sunday. Also, they were off yesterday so they are rested and ready to go all out here and they are not happy about their home loss to a Celtics team that was without Jaylen Brown. Look for them to make up for that here as the Clippers are a perfect 6-0 this season when off a loss! The Clips have won the last two meetings by an average margin of 28.5 points and roll again here. 10* LOS ANGELES CLIPPERS |
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02-07-21 | Georgetown v. Villanova OVER 142 | Top | 74-84 | Win | 100 | 16 h 3 m | Show |
Big East Beast - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach CBB Rotation #811 Sunday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Villanova Wildcats vs Georgetown Hoyas @ 2:30 ET - The Wildcats are off just their 2nd loss of the season. When they lost their first game they responded by scoring 87 points in their next game. At home and not happy about scoring just 59 points in their loss to St John's, Villanova will take a very aggressive approach here and won't take their foot off the gas. However, don't be surprised if the Hoyas run right along with the Cats! Georgetown, after a long layoff due to postponed games, has come back with a perfect 2-0 SU mark even though they were a big dog in each game. The Hoyas are playing with a ton of confidence as a result especially since they are coming off a red-hot shooting effort against Creighton. Look for the Hoyas to carry some momentum from that one right into this one and I am looking for a very high-scoring affair as a result. We are getting some value here with the low total because this series has trended under in recent meetings. The value is there because the situation is telling me this should be an over. The Cats are angry and want to put up 90+ if they can but Georgetown comes in with confidence and hot shooting. 10* OVER the total in Villanova |
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02-07-21 | Flyers -112 v. Capitals | Top | 7-4 | Win | 100 | 15 h 34 m | Show |
Contrarian Crusher - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NHL Rotation #51 Sunday 10* Top Play Philadelphia Flyers Money Line (-) @ Washington Capitals @ 12:05 ET - Flyers favored on the road after back to back losses? Must be some kind of mistake, right? In typical contrarian fashion I am backing the side many will not want here. Philadelphia actually has won 4 straight against the Capitals and the last 3 victories have come by a combined margin of 15 to 5. In other words, that is domination and here Philly comes in angry after back to back games they essentially gave away against the Bruins. This followed the Flyers winning 4 straight games and they should get right back on track here. Vitek Vanecek has allowed 7 goals in his last two starts and Ilya Samsonov is still out. Conversely the Flyers should have Carter Hart back in goal for this one plus key D-man Phillip Myers could be back and also center Sean Courturier is nearing a return. Road team rolls the Caps again here just as they have been doing in recent meetings. 10* PHILADELPHIA |
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02-06-21 | Penguins v. Islanders -105 | Top | 3-4 | Win | 100 | 21 h 31 m | Show |
Contrarian Crusher - Scott "The Bulldog" Rickenbach NHL Rotation #42 Saturday 10* Top Play New York Islanders Money Line (-) vs Pittsburgh Penguins @ 7:05 ET - How can the Islanders open up as a pick'em here considering they have lost 5 straight games? Exactly! The odds maker knows that this team is much better than their record shows and they will be extra hungry here after back to back losses that each came in overtime against the Flyers. Note that part of the reason the Islanders have struggled out of the gates this season could be attributed to a road-heavy schedule as well. By the way, note that the home team is now a perfect 8-0 in the Islanders last 8 games so betting on home ice in Isles games early this season has been a big money maker. The Islanders have now had a layoff of nearly week but so too have the Penguins. By the way, Pittsburgh will attract market attention here because they had won 5 of 7 before a loss to the Rangers in their most recent game. However, the Penguins 5 wins have featured only 1 in regulation and that one was a bit fortunate by the way too! The other 4 victories have all come in overtime or the shootout. The Pens have been living dangerously without a single win by a multiple-goal margin while 4 of their 5 losses this season have been by 2 or more goals. There is some "sneaky value" here with the Islanders is the point I am making and I'll take it for a top play here! 10* ISLANDERS |