Date | Match Up | Rating | Score | Result | Profit | Lead Time | Analysis |
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10-25-18 | Dolphins v. Texans -7 | Top | 23-42 | Win | 100 | 13 h 1 m | Show |
Primetime Punisher - Rickenbach NFL Game #104 Thursday NFL 10* Houston Texans (-) vs Miami Dolphins @ 8:20 ET - The Dolphins are going with Brock Osweiler at QB as Ryan Tannehill is still dealing with his shoulder injury. Though Osweiler has done fairly well since stepping in, both of his starts were at home in Miami. Now he and the Dolphins are in the road and in what will be a very hostile environment for Osweiler and his teammates. Osweiler is a former Texan that had a huge contract and failed in Houston and his relationship with Texans head coach Bill O'Brien was not good to say the least. Suffice to say O'Brien and the entire Houston team are "amped up" for this game. It is a primetime weeknight game and they will make the most of it. The Texans defense is fierce including great pass rush abilities and this will force Osweiler into mistakes. Being without their two top wide receivers is also a detriment to the Dolphins offense for this one. Note that Miami is averaging a paltry 14.7 points per game on 242 yards per game on the road this season. The Texans offense is averaging 22.1 points per game on 372 yards per game this season. Houston has won 4 straight games while the Dolphins have lost 3 of their last 4 games including each of their last two road games. Miami is on a 5-9 ATS run in games against teams with a winning record and the Dolphins also are on a 3-8 ATS run as an away dog. The Texans have won 7 of the 8 meetings between these teams including all 4 at home and there is some -7 out there as of early Thursday morning. Grab it and look for a home blowout here as DeShaun Watson has a big game at QB for the Texans. Miami has allowed an average of 467 yards per game their past two games. 10* HOUSTON |
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10-25-18 | Baylor v. West Virginia -13.5 | Top | 14-58 | Win | 100 | 11 h 60 m | Show |
Contrarian Crusher - Rickenbach Game #114 Thursday 10* Top Play West Virginia Mountaineers (-) vs Baylor Bears @ 7 ET - The Bears, as a big dog here, could have used some help from mother nature to help limit the potent West Virginia offense. Had this game been Friday night instead of Thursday night they would likely get it as rain is expected. However, Thursday night is expected to have spectacular weather conditions with no rain and light winds and this angry Mountaineers teams won't hesitate to run up the score on Baylor. West Virginia is coming off their first loss of the season, a dismal loss at Iowa State two weeks ago. The Mountaineers have been fired up to get back on the field but had to wait an extra week because of their bye week. Don't be surprised if West Virginia looks like they've been shot out of a cannon when this game gets going. They are fired up and a primetime weeknight game is going to have Morgantown rocking tonight! The Bears are 3-3 this season but the 3 wins were against Abilene Christian, UTSA, and Kansas State. Every time that Baylor has faced tougher competition they've lost. The 3 losses have come by an average of 17.3 points per game and the Mountaineers 5 wins this season have come by an average margin of 22.8 points per game. In fact, all except a road win have come by at least a 16 point margin. With this line dropping down from 14 to 13.5 and, considering the highly motivated situation for the Mountaineers, I won't hesitate to go to my top play rating for this one. The Bears are 1-4 ATS in road games with a total between 63.5 and 70 points. The Mountaineers improve to 4-1 ATS in games played on turf this season. 10* WEST VIRGINIA |
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10-25-18 | Flyers v. Bruins OVER 5.5 | Top | 0-3 | Loss | -111 | 10 h 29 m | Show |
Total of the Month - Rickenbach NHL Game #55 Thursday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Boston Bruins vs Philadelphia Flyers @ 7:05 ET - The Flyers are off a 4-1 home loss to the Avalanche but were previously 7-1 to the over this season! Philadelphia's 4 road games this season have averaged 8.5 goals per game. That said, when the total on this game dropped from a 6 to a 5.5 early this morning, I knew it was go time with this one. Yes, each team is dealing with a few injuries right now but the full season numbers with these hockey clubs truly tells the full story. The fact is too that one good game from goalie Tuukka Rask for the Bruins doesn't mean he is all the way back! Boston allowed a total of 17 goals in his first 4 start this season and all 4 went over the total. The potent Bruins offensive attack has averaged scoring 6 goals per game in their 3 home games this season! But will Boston have full intensity on defense here? Their Original Six rival and division rival Montreal Canadiens are up next. If Bruins lose focus here, even if just in spurts, the Flyers have the potent offense to make them pay. The issue for Philly though is they have struggled to keep the puck out of their own net and I expect that to continue to be an issue tonight! The over is 4-0 this season when Philadelphia is off a non-conference game. The over is 3-1 this season when the Bruins are off a game in which they scored 4 or more goals. 10* OVER the total in Boston |
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10-24-18 | Dodgers v. Red Sox UNDER 8.5 | Top | 2-4 | Win | 105 | 13 h 43 m | Show |
MLB Total of the Month - Rickenbach MLB Game #904 Wednesday 10* Top Play UNDER the total in Boston Red Sox vs Los Angeles Dodgers @ 8:05 ET - The Red Sox scored 5 runs last night with 2 outs in an inning. Impressive clutch hitting for sure but, outside of that, 7 runs were scored in last night's game. The point being that now we're seeing a total of 8.5 in Game 2 even though it is going to be another chilly evening at Fenway Park and even though one should be considering a very important factor here. Are either of these starting pitchers likely to pitch as bad as Kershaw and Sale did last night? Think about it...their combined line was 8 earned runs allowed on 12 hits and 5 walks in their combined 8 innings. That is a poor effort to say the last. Don't be surprised if Hyun-Jin Ryu and David Price both give better efforts tonight. Ryu struggled at Milwaukee in the NLCS but the Red Sox don't have familiarity with him. Also, Price will still be riding high from his dominating effort at Houston that propelled Boston into this World Series. In starts where Price has been a favorite this season only 8 of 27 went over the total! Before Ryu's most recent start at Milwaukee went over the total, 10 of his last 14 night game starts had resulted in an under. I suspect this one will as well! Grab the added value as last night's results have resulted in a boosted total here when the reality is the starting pitching will likely prove to be much better on another chilly night at Fenway Park. 10* UNDER the total in Boston |
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10-24-18 | Jazz +2.5 v. Rockets | Top | 100-89 | Win | 100 | 12 h 40 m | Show |
NBA Contrarian Crusher - Rickenbach NBA Game #511 Wednesday 10* Top Play Utah Jazz (+) @ Houston Rockets @ 8:05 ET - This play is contrarian from the standpoint that, on the surface, it looks real easy to take the Rockets at home off a loss and lay a very small number in doing so. However, the problem with Houston right now is they have a cluster of injuries impacting them and also Chris Paul is suspended for one more game and not returning until Friday's match-up with the Clippers. Also, the Rockets are catching the Jazz at the wrong time. Not only does Utah have playoff revenge from last season, the Jazz also enter this game off back to back losses and very fired up for this game. They blew their recent game against the defending champion Warriors and then, after that debacle in the Warriors game, they clearly looked right past Memphis as they were looking ahead to this opportunity for post-season revenge. Now the day has arrived and it is time to "put up or shut up" and I expect the Jazz to "put up" here! Utah has stayed mostly static with their roster and that particularly helps them in a situation like this where the Rockets are having to mix and match pieces. Also note that the Jazz have only failed to cover 24 of their last 67 games when facing a team that allows 106 points or more per game. As for Houston, they are on a 10-18 ATS run when playing with 2 days of rest between games. 10* UTAH |
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10-24-18 | Panthers +101 v. Islanders | Top | 3-2 | Win | 101 | 10 h 53 m | Show |
NHL Game of the Month - Rickenbach NHL Game #3 Wednesday 10* Top Play Florida Panthers Money Line (+) @ New York Islanders @ 7:05 ET - The Panthers, last night notwithstanding, have played much better than their record so far this season indicates. Of course that is why the odds makers (much sharper than the public) opened up with Florida as the favorite in this one! Now the line, as of early game day morning, has swung around to the Islanders as the favorite. This comes as no surprise to me and I love the Panthers in this spot. Even though this is a back to back for Florida, the situation absolutely favors them. The Islanders have been complaining about too much time off between games and they enter this one having been off for 3 straight days. Too much rest can take away your "game legs" and you just tend to not skate as well and you don't adjust as quickly to the action on the ice. Look for the Panthers to get the early jump on the Isles here and then keep their foot on the gas on the way to a big road win. Florida is so hungry for a strong performance after the tough one against the Rangers last night. The Panthers outhshot the Rangers but came up on the wrong end of the scoreboard but look for a stronger effort between the pipes tonight. In home games with a posted total of 6 or more goals, the Islanders have lost 24 of 36 games! The road team has won 5 of the last 6 meetings between these teams and the Panthers won their two games here last year by a combined score of 7 to 1. Look for another road rout here. 10* FLORIDA |
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10-23-18 | Troy -12.5 v. South Alabama | Top | 38-17 | Win | 100 | 12 h 39 m | Show |
Rare Tuesday CFB Top Play - Rickenbach CFB Game #101 Tuesday 10* Top Play Troy Trojans (-) @ South Alabama Jaguars @ 8 ET - The Trojans lost starting QB Kaleb Barker for the season (ACL) but Sawyer Smith had already had some experience this season and had performed quite well. The fact that he had some struggles in his first start, on the road at Liberty, is actually leading to some line value here. Look for Smith to perform much better after getting that road start out of the way and he has had extra time to prepare since Troy is off a bye. It certainly will help that Smith and the powerful Trojans are going up against a weak defense. The Jaguars defense ranks in the BOTTOM 20 out of all 130 teams in FBS for defensive efficiency. Overall, South Alabama has allowed 446 yards per game this season. The Jags run defense is particularly poor and the Trojans powerful ground game can take advantage. Troy is on a 6-0 ATS run in Tuesday games. The Trojans enter this game having allowed just 19.7 points per game their last 6 games. South Alabama enters this game off a rare big win and previously had allowed an average of 47 points per game in their first 6 games this season. The Jaguars are on a 5-13 ATS run in conference action and will prove to be outclassed again by the class of the conference as the Trojans get revenge for last year's loss. Last year the Jags caught Troy after their big upset of LSU. South Alabama is not so lucky this season in terms of the situational set-up and the Trojans roll big here! Lay the big points even though they are on the road. 10* TROY |
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10-23-18 | Sharks +116 v. Predators | Top | 5-4 | Win | 116 | 10 h 23 m | Show |
NBC Sports Network Rout - Rickenbach NHL Game #59 Tuesday NHL 10* Top Play San Jose Sharks Money Line (+) @ Nashville Predators @ 8:05 ET - Of course this money line will entice people to take Nashville on home ice laying a short price. After all, the Sharks have lost 11 of their last 12 games in this building and the one win came in the shootout. However, San Jose is a very strong hockey team that is catching Nashville at the perfect time. The Predators are off a great road trip where their head coach challenged them and they delivered. I suspect they may not have enough left in the tank here to get past the hungry Sharks. Keep in mind, Nashville's Juuse Saros has been playing great between the pipes as Pekka Rinne is out right now but there is a reason Saros is the back-up and not the starter. Also, the Preds have the best record in the NHL at 7-1 so far but Nashville has played only 2 playoff teams from last season. In fact the non-playoff teams they've faced all finished 11th or worse in their respective conference standings last season. Though the Predators have a great goal differential this season note that their shot differential is only +1.6 a game while the Sharks have dominated in shot differential as they've registered a +12.3 shots per game. This is a great value spot with the Sharks and they catch the Preds feeling over-confident after the great road trip they just had. Nashville has lost 12 of 20 (-7.9 units!) when off a shutout win. Sharks have won 23 of their last 34 Tuesday games. 10* SAN JOSE |
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10-23-18 | 76ers -1.5 v. Pistons | Top | 132-133 | Loss | -110 | 9 h 59 m | Show |
Earliest Cash - Rickenbach NBA Game #701 Tuesday 10* Top Play Philadelphia 76ers (-) @ Detroit Pistons @ 7:05 ET - Detroit is 2-0 SU but 0-2 ATS on the season. They've squeaked by Brooklyn and Chicago. Neither the Nets or Bulls are expected to post much of a threat in terms of NBA supremacy this season! The point is that the Pistons are now finally facing a strong team and Philly has some confidence back after back to back wins have followed an opening game disaster versus the Celtics. Yes, the 76ers have also faced a weak schedule since that game one loss but the fact that they've at least, unlike the Pistons, faced one quality opponent, is reason enough to believe that they've got a better shot at getting into the win column in this one. The Pistons have yet to truly be battle tested. Even though Simmons (back) is an issue for the Sixers, they played most of the last game without him which allowed for a good "test run" and they'll be even better prepared tonight after JJ Redick went off in his absence and had a huge game. Keep in mind too that Detroit big man Andre Drummond is dealing with the flu which certainly won't help the Pistons as they try to contain Joel Embiid inside! Philly won all 4 meetings last season and each win came by at least 5 points. The 76ers are on a 21-9 ATS run when playing with 2 days of rest between games and this is their first such opportunity this season. The Sixers will make the most of it! The Pistons have a divisional game on deck (Cavs) and also are off a divisional win (Bulls) and Detroit is 11-20 ATS their last 31 when off a divisional game. 10* PHILADELPHIA |
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10-22-18 | Giants +4.5 v. Falcons | Top | 20-23 | Win | 100 | 13 h 24 m | Show |
Primetime Punisher - Rickenbach NFL Game #475 Monday 10* Top Play New York Giants (+) @ Atlanta Falcons @ 8:15 ET - This line looked funny to many when it first was posted as, even though the Falcons have had a rather tough start this season, they are still at home here and Atlanta was in the Super Bowl two seasons ago and made the playoffs last season. Considering those factors as well as the fact that the Giants went 3-13 last year and have started this year 1-5, it is no wonder why Atlanta is getting plenty of love from the public in this one. Don't be fooled ladies and gentlemen as this game was priced this way for a reason and the sharp money is on the Giants. On Thursday night football the G-men were embarrassed by the division rival Eagles but their season is not over yet. Both Philly and the Cowboys lost yesterday and now have losing records on the season. The Giants have a shot at the NFC East first-place Redskins next week. In other words, New York knows that it just takes back to back wins to be right back in the thick of things in their divisional race. After getting embarrassed in the game against the Eagles last Thursday, the Giants D is undoubtedly going to bring a huge effort this week and they do have the better defense in this match-up with the Falcons. Although Atlanta has a bye on deck, they are actually just 1-5 ATS when playing the week before a bye. The Giants, when a road dog in non-divisional action, are on a 5-1 ATS run. The Giants are also on an incredible 9-0-1 ATS run when they are off a Thursday game. The Falcons are off a key win versus the Buccaneers are Atlanta is on an 0-7 ATS run after facing Tampa Bay. That means we have a combined 16-0 / 100% PERFECT edge here in favor of the road dog! 10* NEW YORK GIANTS |
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10-22-18 | Blues v. Jets OVER 6 | Top | 4-5 | Win | 110 | 10 h 26 m | Show |
NHL Network Crusher - Rickenbach NHL Game #5 Monday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Winnipeg Jets vs St Louis Blues @ 8:05 ET - The Blues are known for defense but have struggled in their own zone this season. Yes St Louis got the upset win at Toronto Saturday and held the Maple Leafs to just 1 goal but, previously, the Blues were allowing an average of 4 goals per game on the season. That said, a trip to Winnipeg could highlight those defensive shortcomings again. The Jets like to push the pace and put opponents on their heels and this is especially true when they are the host. Winnipeg has won 3 of 4 games so far on this 6 game homestand and the Jets have done it courtesy of an offense that is averaging 4 goals per game. The Blues have 0 unders in their 3 divisional games this season and are also 2-0 to the over when off a game where they scored 4 or more goals. The Jets are 2-0 to the over in games against teams with a losing record and, after a win by a multiple goal margin, Winnipeg has had 0 unders in 3 games. Additionally, when the Jets enter a game having played each of their three prior games at home, the over has gone 18-9. Huge edges for a high-scoring one north of the border. There is some 5.5 becoming available on this game but I am happy to take the over 6 at a plus money return as I expect at least 7 goals in this one. 10* OVER the total in Winnipeg |
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10-22-18 | Magic v. Celtics OVER 210.5 | Top | 93-90 | Loss | -105 | 11 h 26 m | Show |
NBA TV Smash Pass - Rickenbach NBA Game #503 Monday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Boston Celtics vs Orlando Magic @ 7:35 ET - This total is dropping early this morning which is understandable given the fact that each of these teams has trended early this season as well as the fact that the Celtics are known for defense. However, the drop on the total is also a key to additional value here because I just don't foresee Boston giving a real huge effort on the defensive end in this game. It is a non-divisional match-up against a bad team. These types of match-ups, as a general rule, don't tend to bring out the best in terms of intensity on defense. Also, the Magic have added confidence from scoring 115 points and shooting lights out in a 1 point loss at Philly Saturday. Boston is off a tight win Saturday over the Knicks and this will now be the 3rd game in 4 nights for each of these teams. That also can mean some tired legs on defense. The over is 3-1 in the last 4 meetings between these teams in Boston. The Magic have scored at least 103 points in 2 of their last 3 meetings with the Celtics and at least 104 points in 2 of their 3 games this season. Orlando should ride momentum from the hot shooting at Philly but their defense is poor. That said, look for the Magic to get to the 105 range in this game but they are forecast to lose by double digits for a reason and this one should fly well over the total as the Celtics enjoy a breakout game on offense against a sub-par defense. The over is 22-15 in Orlando's games against Atlantic Division opponents and the over is 26-17 in the Celtics games against Southeast Division opponents. Look for another one here! 10* OVER the total in Boston |
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10-21-18 | Bengals v. Chiefs UNDER 59 | Top | 10-45 | Win | 100 | 23 h 45 m | Show |
Total of the Month - Rickenbach NFL Game #464 Sunday 10* Top Play UNDER the total in Kansas City Chiefs vs Cincinnati Bengals @ 8:20 ET - The betting markets tend to have a short term memory and so a total like this ends up being over-inflated. Yes, the Chiefs are off the wild Monday night game with the Patriots but their two prior games were unders. Also, each of the Bengals last two games stayed under the total. Of course statistically one can make a case for plenty of points to be scored here but, keep in mind, each of these teams LOST their last game because they gave up too many points. All each of these teams is hearing entering this Monday night game is how they can't stop anyone. The point is that this is when professional pride kicks in and, with the Sunday night cameras rolling, these D's are going to bring a huge effort tonight. Both teams certainly respect their opponents offense here too so there will be a little bit of cat and mouse keep away where you may seem each team playing for short passes and some running plays mixed in in an attempt to win the game through ball control. After what happened last week, the fact is that neither one of these teams is interested in getting involved in a shootout. Keep in mind, although the Chiefs offense has struggled this season, the Bengals offense has averaged only 303.5 yards per game their past two games. Also, the Chiefs had allowed an average of just 21.3 points per game their 3 prior games before getting throttled at New England. The under has cashed 11 of 16 when the Bengals face a team with a winning record. Also, in games with a posted total of 49.5 points or more, Cincinnati's game have stayed under in 9 of their last 11. Additionally, 14 of the Chiefs last 20 home games have stayed under the total. With two teams whose defenses are each being "challenged" coming into this game, this big number should prove to be far too many points. 10* UNDER the total in Kansas City |
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10-21-18 | Hawks +7.5 v. Cavs | Top | 133-111 | Win | 100 | 7 h 18 m | Show |
Contrarian Crusher - Rickenbach NBA Game #701 Sunday 10* Top Play Atlanta Hawks (+) @ Cleveland Cavaliers @ 6:05 ET - The Cavaliers burned me on Friday night but I'll get it back here. I had the Timberwolves (-8 or -8.5) and they blew a 21-point lead and won the game by only 8 for a loss or push for my clients. Now we get a chance to fade a line move here as everyone is piling on Cleveland for their home opener. This is not a very good Cavs team. Now I am certainly not saying that the Hawks are anything special either but they are now getting a lot more points than they should be considering they are 0-2 SU just like the Cavaliers are so they will be every bit as hungry. Keep in mind they have a history of playing very well here too as they've covered each of their last 8 trips to Cleveland. Coming into this season, Atlanta's projected win total was very close to that of the Cavaliers and there is just not a huge difference right now between these two teams. I also like the fact that the Cavs have covered (to the closing line) each of their first two games but each by just half a point. Their luck runs out here as they will be doing good just to win this game let alone cover the inflated spread. The Cavaliers are on a 61-84 ATS run as a favorite. Cleveland is also 39-58 ATS in home games. Also, when off a non-conference games, the Cavs are an ugly 25-42 ATS. 10* ATLANTA |
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10-21-18 | Saints +3 v. Ravens | Top | 24-23 | Win | 100 | 19 h 41 m | Show |
Game of the Week - Rickenbach NFL Game #469 Sunday 10* Top Play New Orleans Saints (+) @ Baltimore Ravens @ 4:05 ET - A pair of hot teams matched up here but I like the value with the road dog that also has the better offense. The Saints have won 4 straight games and also are on an 8-0 ATS run in October games. The Ravens have played well this season but are still just 3-2 SU their last 5 games and they have a knack for falling into slumps as we get closer to the mid-point of the season. Baltimore is on a 3-8 ATS run in October games. The Ravens are also 2-6 ATS in non-conference games. When the Saints enter a game on a wining streak of 2 or more SU games, they have gone 9-4 ATS. Keep in mind New Orleans just had that huge MNF performance from Drew Brees and are now off their bye week. They are rested and ready while the Ravens have expended a lot of effort the past 3 weeks as all 3 games were on the road. Baltimore has defeated the Saints each of the last 3 meetings including in the Superdome against Brees and Company in 2014. That said, this triple-revenge game goes to the hungry rested road dog. 10* NEW ORLEANS |
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10-20-18 | Dodgers -109 v. Brewers | Top | 5-1 | Win | 100 | 10 h 5 m | Show |
Game of the Week - Rickenbach MLB Game #961 Saturday 10* Top Play Los Angeles Dodgers @ Milwaukee Brewers @ 8:05 ET - As an MLB fan I generally enjoy rooting for the underdog. That side of me would be pulling for the Brewers in this game. However, in successful sports betting you have to shut out the "fan" aspect of it because it is all about the analytics. So though it would have been nice to see the Brewers finally back in the World Series for the first time since 1982 I just do not see it happening. The odds makers knew what they were doing here when they made the Dodgers a moderate favorite with the opening line here. It has since come down to very nearly a pick'em and this is understandable because of the post-season ERA numbers of these two pitchers thus far. However, that doesn't tell the full story here. The fact is that the Dodgers Walker Buehler has simply been done in by a couple of big hits. Note that he has allowed only 7 hits in his 12 post-season innings! Also, he has continued to pile up strikeouts. The point is that the LA right-hander has been a little unfortunate with his outcomes and that brings us to Jhoulys Chacin. Give the Milwaukee right-hander credit as he has pitched well. But he gave up quite a few hard hit balls in the first start versus the Dodgers and yet he managed to escape damage. I feel he will not be so fortunate in round two. Also, Chacin has averaged only 5 innings per start his last 8 starts. Conversely, Buehler has averaged above 6.5 innings per start his last 8 starts. Buehler, if he is rolling, could go 7 or 8 here while that doesn't hold true for Chacin and the Brewers used some key bullpen yesterday. 10* LOS ANGELES DODGERS |
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10-20-18 | Lightning -133 v. Wild | Top | 4-5 | Loss | -133 | 9 h 6 m | Show |
Game of the Week - Rickenbach NHL Game #17 Saturday 10* Top Play Tampa Bay Lightning Money Line (-) @ Minnesota Wild @ 8 ET - This is a back to back spot for Minnesota so that means back-up goalie Alex Stalock is likely to get the start. If the Wild do instead decide to go with Devan Dubnyk it would be a tough spot for him as he'll be going on back to back nights and with travel involved and with coming off a tough game at Dallas that definitely involved exerting a lot of effort. This is Tampa Bay's first road game of the season and they are one of the top teams in the NHL and ready to use this 5-game road trip to the north and then west as a proving ground that this team is ready for "next level". Truly the Bolts have been close in recent seasons and they are very healthy right now (also got Ryan Callahan back) and, unlike Minnesota, they are well rested here too. The Lightning are 0-5-1 in their last 6 trips here so it is time to prove themselves on the road against the Wild. They did beat Stalock when they hosted Minny early last season. The Wild have lost 27 of 45 Saturday games and also have lost 18 of their last 31 when playing the 2nd game of a back to back. The Lightning have won 47 of their last 78 games against teams with a losing record and they are priced very well here as a rather small favorite. 10* TAMPA BAY |
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10-20-18 | Oregon +3 v. Washington State | Top | 20-34 | Loss | -109 | 21 h 51 m | Show |
Game of the Week - Rickenbach CFB Game #368 Saturday 10* Top Play Oregon Ducks (+) @ Washington State Cougars @ 7:30 ET - People will shy away from Oregon here since they're off the big win at Washington last week and it was a revenge game. However, those same people may have forgotten that the Ducks are on a mission right now thanks to a healthy Justin Herbert at QB and they have big-time revenge on their minds this week because they've been beaten badly by the Cougars each of the past two seasons! Look for Oregon to roll here as the Ducks, in my opinion, have faced tougher Pac-12 match-ups than Washington State has thus far. As a result, Oregon is the more battle-tested team in this match-up and their only loss this season (to Stanford) was truly a game the Ducks never should have lost. They've showed great resilience ever since then. I also like the fact that Washington State is 6-0 ATS this season so they're falling into public favor as a result and they're getting some extra shading in this match-up they really don't deserve. The Cougars luck at the betting window runs out this week in my opinion! The Cougars are 1-3 ATS off a bye week and 5-8 ATS as a home favorite of 3 or less points. Oregon is 46-23 in games with a line between +3 and -3. The Ducks are also 16-6 ATS in a road game with posted total between 63.5 and 70 points. 10* OREGON |
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10-20-18 | Central Florida v. East Carolina OVER 65 | Top | 37-10 | Loss | -105 | 20 h 58 m | Show |
Total of the Month - Rickenbach CFB Game #315 Saturday 10* Top Play OVER the total in East Carolina Pirates vs Central Florida Golden Knights @ 7 ET - The Golden Knights are 6-0 this season but they are in a traditional "sandwich spot" here as they just barely survived a tough game at Memphis last week - 1 point win - and UCF now has a bye week on deck. It would be easy for the Central Florida defense to overlook the Pirates here as they just won't have a lot of intensity left in the tank after hanging on for dear life in the win over the Tigers last week. With that said, I expect this game to turn into an absolute shootout. The Pirates can score (at least when they are at home), they just can't stop anybody from scoring! East Carolina has averaged 30 points per game at home this season but the Pirates have allowed an average of 42 points per game in their last 3 games overall. Central Florida has a dynamic offense that is averaging 45.7 points per game this season. The Golden Knights will have no trouble moving the ball on the struggling Pirates defense but don't be surprised when East Carolina (with a solid aerial attack) is also gaining big yardage in this game and moving the ball up and down the field. The over is 31-18 in Central Florida's October games. The last two meetings between these teams flew over the total and the average points scored was 80 in those games! In games with a posted total of 64.5 points or less this season, the Pirates are a perfect 3-0 to the over this season. More of the same expected on Saturday in what should a high-scoring shootout. 10* OVER the total in East Carolina |
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10-19-18 | Edmonton v. BC OVER 52 | Top | 32-42 | Win | 100 | 11 h 34 m | Show |
Total of the Month - Rickenbach CFL Game #653 Friday 10* Top Play OVER the total in BC Lions vs Edmonton Eskimos @ 10 PM ET - This is a value spot because Edmonton continues to get involved in low-scoring games (miraculously) even though their defense has been sub-par and even though QB Mike Reilly is leading the CFL in passing yards. The Eskimos, based on their stats, should be scoring much more than they have been and also should be giving up a lot more points than they have been. Of course this combination has led to excellent line value here in a game that should fly over the total. The BC ground game has boosted by the addition of RB Tyrell Sutton while the passing game received a jolt with the return of Travis Lulay at QB. The over is 3-0-1 in the last 4 meetings between these teams and this should end up being a traditional shootout between these West Division foes in a game that is key in the playoff race. Truly neither team can rely on their defense so it is all about the O in this one! The over is 6-1 in Edmonton's road games with a posted total between 49.5 and 52 points. The over is 8-4 when the Lions enter a game on a SU winning streak of 2 or more games. 10* OVER the total in BC |
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10-19-18 | Colorado State v. Boise State OVER 62.5 | Top | 28-56 | Win | 100 | 13 h 48 m | Show |
ESPN Smash Pass - Rickenbach CFB Game #307 Friday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Boise State Broncos vs Colorado State Rams @ 9 ET - The Broncos and Rams, in terms of offensive plays run per game, rank as two of the faster paced teams in CFB as both are in the Top 20. The weather is going to be fantastic in Boise tonight. The Broncos have already shown they won't take their foot off the gas at home when they have a chance to run up the score. Boise State beat Connecticut here earlier this season by a count of 62-7 and the Broncos totaled over 800 yards in that white-washing! The fact is that the Rams are very poor defensively and won't be able to stop the Broncos powerful offense. Last season these teams combined for 104 points in regulation of an eventual 59-52 OT win for Boise. Colorado State, though poor defensively, does have a respectable offense that is averaging nearly 300 passing yards per game. The over is 4-2 / 67% when the Rams enter a game off 2 or more consecutive wins. The over is 4-2 / 67% when the Broncos face a team with a losing record. 10* OVER the total in Boise |
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10-19-18 | Dodgers v. Brewers OVER 7.5 | Top | 2-7 | Win | 100 | 10 h 21 m | Show |
Contrarian Crusher - Rickenbach MLB Game #957 Friday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Milwaukee Brewers vs Los Angeles Dodgers @ 8:35 ET - This total opened up at an 8 but is starting to drop to a 7.5 in some spots which comes as no surprise. After all, under has been the trend in this series. However, in typical contrarian fashion, I am going with the over here. For one thing, Hyun-Jin Ryu got hit quite hard by the Brewers in his first start in this series. Secondly, the Dodgers have plenty of confidence right now as they've won back to back games in this series. So LA certainly won't be lacking for confidence at the plate as they've also averaged 5 runs per game in their last 4 road games. The Brewers scored a total of 9 runs in their two home games in this series and should have no trouble with Ryu. Additionally, the further you get into a series, the more a lineup gets to see the bullpen and so don't be surprised if there are a few more "connections" for each team against the opposing relievers in tonight's match-up. It all adds up to plenty of runs expected at Miller Park tonight. Look for the over to improve to 15-9 when the Brewers are playing after an off day. As for Los Angeles, the over is 4-1-1 in their last 6 road games. 10* OVER the total in Milwaukee |
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10-19-18 | Cavs v. Wolves -8 | Top | 123-131 | Push | 0 | 11 h 57 m | Show |
Game of the Month - Rickenbach NBA Game #710 Friday 10* Top Play Minnesota Timberwolves (-) vs Cleveland Cavaliers @ 8:05 ET - Both the Cavs and Wolves were outscored at the 3-point line in their season opening losses. The difference tonight in terms of whom bounces back in Game Two of the new season has a lot to do with the home floor. The Cavaliers are unlikely to fix their outside shooting woes here. Their problems were evident in a bit of a disjointed game at Toronto where they found themselves down 20 points. As for Minnesota's game at San Antonio, they got very little from Karl-Anthony Towns and Jimmy Butler didn't contribute a lot until he was involved with all of the Timberwolves last 14 points. So if Towns doesn't foul out, Butler carries over momentum from his late game play at SA, and the Wolves also don't get outscored by 15 points from beyond the arc then what happens? I'll tell you what happens. This game should turn into an absolute home blowout. We're getting extra line value here because the Cavs snuck in the back door for a late cover or push while the Wolves just missed covering their first game. Now this line is down from where it should be. Keep in mind the Wolves crushed the Cavs here by 28 points last year and Cleveland comes into this season projected to finish the year 20 games under .500 (sans LeBron James) while the Timberwolves are projected to be a winning team in the tougher Western Conference (per win totals from odds makers before the season). The Wolves are 9-4 ATS in home games with a posted total of 220 points or more. The Cavs are 11-33 ATS when off a loss by a double digit margin! Blowout time here. 10* MINNESOTA |
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10-18-18 | Broncos v. Cardinals +2 | Top | 45-10 | Loss | -110 | 12 h 54 m | Show |
Thursday Thrasher - Rickenbach NFL Game #302 Thursday 10* Top Play Arizona Cardinals (+) vs Denver Broncos @ 8:20 ET - The Cardinals are 12-1 ATS as a home dog of less than 7 points when playing a non-divisional opponent. Arizona is also a perfect 4-0 ATS in home games with a posted total between 38.5 and 42 points. As for the Broncos, under head coach Vance Joseph, they are 1-9 ATS in road games. Also, in games 5 through 8 of a season, Denver is 2-12 ATS when they are a favorite against a team that is off a SU loss by a double digit margin and that also is playing with revenge. That system fits the Cards perfectly here. Combining all the edges here and you have a 37-4 (90%) spot in favor of the hungry home dog here. Yes, both teams have been struggling this season but the Cardinals view this game as a rare chance to shine at home in prime-time action with all eyes of the football world watching. The Cards will be ready to go in a big way here. 10* ARIZONA |
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10-18-18 | Bulls v. 76ers -11 | Top | 108-127 | Win | 100 | 10 h 13 m | Show |
Game of the Week - Rickenbach NBA Game #502 Thursday 10* Top Play Philadelphia 76ers (-) vs Chicago Bulls @ 8:05 ET - The Sixers go from playing the best team in the Eastern Conference to now facing one of the worst. Philly also goes from playing on the road in a tough venue in Boston to playing at home for their own rowdy fans. Especially with this game being their home opener, this game has blowout written all over it after the 76ers had such a tough game from the 2nd quarter on in their opening night loss Tuesday. Philadelphia is 27-15 ATS when off of a loss by a double digit margin in their prior game. Also, the 76ers are a long-term 56-30 ATS in home games. The Bulls are on a 28-57 SU run in road games and when the Sixers win as a favorite they normally cover. The 76ers are on a 47-19 SU run as a favorite and they've gotten the cash in 38 of those 47 wins. With advantages all over the floor (especially with Bulls missing Lauri Markkanen) this one turns into a home blowout. 10* PHILADELPHIA |
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10-17-18 | Red Sox v. Astros OVER 8.5 | Top | 8-6 | Win | 113 | 10 h 24 m | Show |
Total of the Week - Rickenbach MLB Game #913 Wednesday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Houston Astros vs Boston Red Sox @ 8:35 ET - All 3 games in this series have flown over the total and I see no reason for that to change tonight in Game 4. The fact is that the Astros Charlie Morton has been on the mound for a total of just 4 innings since September 15th. He hasn't pitched in the post-season and he only threw 4 innings over his last two regular season starts. That doesn't bode well for him to come out and just dominate here. Keep in mind he relies on location of his breaking stuff to be successful and it is hard to be razor sharp when you haven't been pitching much at all. Certainly too the powerful Red Sox lineup has hitters than can make you pay if you're "off" also. Additionally, it won't be just the Boston lineup enjoying success tonight. Rick Porcello gets the start for the BoSox and he allowed 7 runs (6 earned) in 12 innings spanning his two starts against the Astros this season. The Red Sox right-hander served up 3 Houston homers in those two starts. The over is a long-term 19-8-1 in meetings between these teams and that includes 8-2 this season. 9 of the last 13 meetings between these teams in Houston have flown over the total. The over is 11-3 this season in Boston's road games when they are an underdog in a money line range of +125 to +175. Look for another one here as both bullpens have had their share of some struggles in this series too. 10* OVER the total in Houston |
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10-17-18 | Bucks v. Hornets OVER 217 | Top | 113-112 | Win | 100 | 10 h 27 m | Show |
Total of the Week - Rickenbach NBA Game #703 Wednesday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Charlotte Hornets vs Milwaukee Bucks @ 7:05 ET - Interesting match-up here with each team having a new head coach. I expect this to lead to plenty of points here as a pair of former Spurs assistant coaches square off. It is Mike Budenholzer for the Bucks and James Borrego for the Hornets. Milwaukee is going to be emphasizing the 3-point shot this season and they've added some key pieces relating to that and I expect to see plenty of threes fired up by Milwaukee tonight. However, the Bucks also can attack the paint as Charlotte no longer has Dwight Howard in the middle and the Hornets are definitely going toward more of a small ball lineup. It all equates to plenty of points here in the season opener as we should see a good tempo in this one. The over is a perfect 3-0 in the last 3 meetings between these teams and also a perfect 3-0 the last 3 times they've met in Charlotte. Additionally, in games played in the first half of a season, Milwaukee has gone 43-23 to the over their last 66. Look for that trend to add another one on the high side Wednesday. 10* OVER the total in Charlotte |
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10-17-18 | Blues v. Canadiens OVER 5.5 | Top | 2-3 | Loss | -105 | 8 h 34 m | Show |
Total of the Week - Rickenbach NHL Game #53 Wednesday 8* OVER the total in Montreal Canadiens vs St Louis Blues @ 7:05 ET - There is some historical trend data that supports the under in this match-up but, ladies and gentlemen, that just doesn't mean anything when current situations with teams have changed drastically. That said, there is excellent value with the over in this match-up because Montreal has been playing a very up-tempo style this season and the Blues are struggling in their own zone but the betting markets have yet to catch up. That said, and with a total of 5.5 on this game, there is excellent value with the over in this match-up. The Canadiens have scored 4 or more goals in 3 of their last 4 games. The Habs also have allowed at least 3 goals in all but 1 of their games this season. The Blues have allowed an average of 4 goals per game this season. St Louis has averaged scoring 3.5 goals per game their last 4 games and they are going to push very hard for a win Wednesday evening in Montreal as they look to bounce back from a slow start to the season. Only 1 of the Blues 5 games this season has resulted in an under. Carey Price is expected to be back between the pipes for the Canadiens tonight but he hasn't played in nearly a week and is trying to come back from a battle with the flu. Price has given up 6 goals in his last 2 games versus the Blues. More of the same here. 10* OVER the total in Montreal |
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10-16-18 | 76ers +5 v. Celtics | Top | 87-105 | Loss | -105 | 10 h 54 m | Show |
Contrarian Crusher - Rickenbach NBA Game #501 Tuesday 10* Top Play Philadelphia 76ers (+) @ Boston Celtics @ 8:05 ET - The Celtics won 7 of 9 meetings with the Sixers last year. Boston has also won 9 straight home games against Philly. Yet the line on this season opening game opened up at just a 5. You know where I am going here as this is a perfect example of what my contrarian picks are all about. While Boston at home looks enticing it should prove out that Philly was the right side in this one! Keep in mind, Kyrie Irving and Gordon Hayward are back for Boston but are returning from injuries. Also, the 76ers Markelle Fultz worked hard on his shot in the off-season. He adds value to a team loaded with talent including Joel Embiid, Ben Simmons, and JJ Redick. Look for the highly motivated Sixers to prove to be the much hungrier team in this one and they are making some changes on defense in this one that should help them be stronger in the paint against the Celtics. Only time will tell but I feel an upset looms tonight and, keep in mind, the last 4 meetings between these teams featured a 76ers win and 3 Sixers losses but all of those Philly defeats came by a margin of 5 or less points. 10* PHILADELPHIA |
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10-16-18 | Canucks v. Penguins OVER 6.5 | Top | 3-2 | Loss | -100 | 8 h 30 m | Show |
Total Annihilation - Rickenbach NHL Game #5 Tuesday 10* Top Play OVER the total Pittsburgh Penguins vs Vancouver Canucks @ 7:05 ET - Total of 6.5 may look to be "too much" to the average bettor but this total opened up at this big number with good reason. The Penguins are likely to have Matt Murray back between the pipes tonight but he is returning from a concussion that he suffered in practice recently and he has struggled in his two starts this season. The Canucks are likely to have Anders Nilsson between the pipes and he has been surprisingly successful in his first two starts this season. However, there is a reason he is normally the back-up to Jacob Markstrom. Also, the Penguins have revenge against the Canucks as they were swept in two games versus Vancouver last season including one that Nilsson started. That said I look for the Penguins to push hard in this game in the offensive zone (especially coming off of the loss at Montreal Saturday) and that should lead to plenty of goals here. The issue for the Pens is in their own zone, especially after the loss of defenseman Justin Schultz. So the Canucks should answer the Penguins goal for goal in a wild one here. Both games between these clubs went over the total last season. Also, the Canucks have averaged 3.8 goals per game this season. The Penguins have had one bad game (hosting Montreal) but have averaged scoring 4.7 goals per game in their other 3 games! When playing against a team with a winning record, in the first half of a season, the Pens have gone over in 22 of their last 29. Look for another one here. 10* OVER the total in Pittsburgh |
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10-16-18 | Red Sox +122 v. Astros | Top | 8-2 | Win | 122 | 7 h 30 m | Show |
Daytime Dominator - Rickenbach MLB Game #907 Tuesday MLB 10* Top Play Boston Red Sox Money Line (+) @ Houston Astros @ 5:05 ET - Boston's Nathan Eovaldi has given up a total of just 2 earned runs while striking out 28 in the 23 and 1/3 innings spanning his 5 starts since September 1st. Houston's Dallas Keuchel has seen his strikeout numbers come down as he has struck out only 19 while allowing 18 earned runs in 28 innings spanning his last 6 starts. On paper, the Astros have the better bullpen but in Game 2 the Red Sox bullpen certainly held the edge and that trend continues here. Boston is 39-17 (+$16,800) in recent seasons when playing after a day off. Houston is only 12-10 (-$8,600) this season when playing after a day off. The Red Sox bats have done a better job of remaining consistent after a day off in comparison with the Astros and I am forecasting that to continue on Tuesday. 10* BOSTON |
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10-15-18 | 49ers v. Packers OVER 46 | Top | 30-33 | Win | 100 | 24 h 19 m | Show |
ESPN Smash Pass - Rickenbach NFL Game #277 Monday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Green Bay Packers vs San Francisco 49ers @ 8:15 ET - The over is 7-1 in the Niners last 8 games. The over is 28-12 in the Packers last 40 games. Green Bay is averaging 300 passing yards per game this season and San Francisco had allowed 276 passing yards per game before holding Arizona in check last week. However, a lot of the reason for the Cardinals not accumulating a lot of yardage on this suspect 49ers defense is because five San Francisco turnovers essentially handed the Cards the game! The point is that Aaron Rodgers should be able to throw all over the Niners in this match-up. However, don't be surprised if CJ Beathard keeps the 49ers hanging around in this games (which is why I like the over here). San Francisco has averaged 294 passing yards per game the past two weeks. Also, the Niners have run for at least 147 yards in 3 of their last 4 games. The Packers have allowed at least 29 points in 3 of their last 4 games while San Francisco is allowing 29.2 points per game on the season. The 49ers are 9-4 to the over as an underdog in a range of 3.5 to 9.5 points. The Packers are 9-3 to the over in their last dozen games against teams with a winning record. With their bye week on deck, Rodgers and Company won't hesitate to go all out here and this one turns into a "track meet" as a result with both teams moving quickly up and down the field. 10* OVER the total in Green Bay |
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10-15-18 | Brewers v. Dodgers OVER 7 | Top | 4-0 | Loss | -115 | 23 h 41 m | Show |
Primetime Punisher - Rickenbach MLB Game #953 Monday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Los Angeles Dodgers vs Milwaukee Brewers @ 7:35 ET - This is an early start for a West Coast game as first pitch is at 4:35 local time when temperatures should be around 80 degrees at Dodger Stadium. Yes, this is a pitcher-friendly venue but with warm temperatures and an early start that does favor the hitters moreso than usual at Dodger Stadium. I know LA's Walker Buehler was done in by a big hit at Atlanta in his post-season start a week ago but it still shows he is certainly susceptible to pitching himself into a jam in a high-pressure situation and then paying for it. Certainly the Brewers have plenty of lumber that can do some damage and I like the low total posted on this game especially considering that both bullpens have had some "moments" already in this series! As for Milwaukee starter Jhoulys Chacin, he allowed 8 earned runs in just 4 and 1/3 innings in his start at Dodger Stadium in August. That doesn't bode well for success in his go-around as the Dodgers also are buoyed in terms of confidence after the big road win at Milwaukee Saturday. Los Angeles has played 30 games with a posted total of 7 runs this season and only 10 of the 30 have resulted in an under. Milwaukee is 14-8 to the over when playing after a day off. 10* OVER the total in Los Angeles Dodgers |
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10-14-18 | Jaguars -3 v. Cowboys | Top | 7-40 | Loss | -115 | 8 h 37 m | Show |
Game of the Week - Rickenbach NFL Game #271 Sunday 10* Top Play Jacksonville Jaguars (-) @ Dallas Cowboys @ 4:25 ET - The Jaguars are off a 16 point loss at Kansas City but Jacksonville actually outgained the Chiefs by 78 yards! The Jags were simply done in by turnovers but that is unlikely to be an issue today. Jacksonville turned the ball over 5 times last week but the Cowboys have forced only 4 turnovers TOTAL in their 5 games this season. Dallas only lost by 3 at Houston last week but it was a deceiving final score. The Cowboys got the push ATS in that game but were very fortunate for that as the Texans failed many times in the red zone. Houston outgained Dallas by 170 yards in the game and should have the game by about two TDs. Last week's "false final" results involving both of these teams is what is leading to solid line value here. Keep in mind the Jaguars should have beat the Patriots in the AFC Championship Game last season but blew a big lead inexplicably. In other words this is a team that was one step away from the Super Bowl last season and we're getting them off a loss here. As for the Cowboys, this is a team that continues to be in disarray and just can't find any solid footing or consistency. Their offensive line is not near what it use to be and this will be an issue as they face the attacking Jaguars defense. Dallas has just 1 ATS win in their 5 games this season. The Jaguars appear poised to improve to 10-5 SU and ATS in their last 15 games against teams with a losing record. 10* JACKSONVILLE |
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10-14-18 | Chargers v. Browns OVER 46.5 | Top | 38-14 | Win | 100 | 5 h 13 m | Show |
Total of the Week - Rickenbach NFL Game #253 Sunday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Cleveland Browns vs Los Angeles Chargers @ 1 ET - Don't be fooled by the Browns low point total last week. Cleveland gained over 400 yards in the 12-9 win and also allowed over 400 yards. The fact the game landed on just 21 points is helping to lead to line value in their match-up with the Chargers this week. The Browns have averaged 451.5 yards per game the past 2 weeks and had scored 42 points at Oakland before last week's "fluke" result on the scoreboard. Both of these teams have had issues with pass defense this season and Cleveland has allowed an average of 360 passing yards per game the past two weeks plus allowed over 300 yards through the air against the Steelers in Week 1. Los Angeles is allowing an average of 270 passing yards per game on the season. The Chargers offensive production is the key to their success. LA is averaging 27.4 points per game this season as the passing game is averaging nearly 300 yards per game through the air! The Browns are 6-2 to the over in games where their line ranges from +3 to -3. The Chargers are 4-1 to the over this season and with mild weather expected for this one a shootout can be expected. 10* OVER the total in Cleveland |
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10-13-18 | Astros v. Red Sox -110 | Top | 7-2 | Loss | -110 | 11 h 30 m | Show |
Game of the Week - Rickenbach MLB Game #904 Saturday 10* Top Play Boston Red Sox Money Line (-) vs Houston Astros @ 8:05 ET - The Red Sox opened up in the 130 range here and are now in the pick'em range in this game. Of course Houston has played very well this season, including on the road, but lets not forget that Boston was the best team in baseball this year. Also, the Red Sox are at home and playing with revenge and that includes Chris Sale. The southpaw has gotten stronger with each start since he returned from injury and he is looking for revenge against Justin Verlander and the Astros as they beat him in Game 1 of the ALDS last year. I can't say anything bad about Verlander or Houston here. Definitely respect them. But the value here with the Red Sox at home and in revenge mode is something I won't pass up on! Sale has struck out 23 in 13 and 1/3 innings in his last 3 starts! Boston is 11-1 in the last 12 starts that Sale has made. The Astros are a long-term 60-107 in road games with a posted total of 7 runs or less and that includes 3-6 in recent seasons. The Red Sox are a long-term 17-8 in home games with a posted total of 7 runs or less and that includes 5-1 in recent seasons. 10* BOSTON |
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10-13-18 | Miami-FL v. Virginia OVER 47.5 | Top | 13-16 | Loss | -105 | 25 h 59 m | Show |
Total of the Week - Rickenbach CFB Game #117 Saturday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Virginia Cavaliers vs Miami Hurricanes @ 7 ET - Neither team is allowing a lot of points this season so this total has been kept lower than it should be. While each of the defenses certainly deserve some respect, lets not forget about the points these teams have been putting on the board. The Hurricanes, since their season-opening loss to LSU, have won 5 straight games and they've averaged scoring 46.4 points per game during this hot streak. The Cavaliers have struggled at times on the road but they've played 3 home games (one was not in Charlottesville but the Cavs were the host), and they've averaged 38 points per game in those 3 games. The over is 5-1 in Hurricanes games this season. Also, the total dropping to 47.5 (as of Friday evening) is certainly not insignificant as 6 of the last 7 meetings between these teams have totaled at least 48 points. Weather will be perfect in Charlottesville too. My expectation here is that Miami comes out a little flat on defense after working hard for the big win over Florida State last week. The Canes also could get caught looking ahead to their bye week. As a result, Virginia takes advantage and makes an early push here as the Cavs are rest off their bye week but also fired up to respond after a 35-21 loss at NC State prior to the bye. This type of scenario, from a situational standpoint, is likely to result in a back and forth game with plenty of points! Play OVER the total in Virginia |
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10-13-18 | West Virginia v. Iowa State +6.5 | Top | 14-30 | Win | 100 | 25 h 53 m | Show |
Game of the Week - Rickenbach CFB Game #176 Saturday 10* Top Play Iowa State Cyclones (+) vs West Virginia Mountaineers @ 7 ET - The Mountaineers are a ranked team and an undefeated team and so when they opened up as a rather small favorite here of course the betting masses jumped all over them. This has led to even more value here with an Iowa State team that is much better than their 2-3 record indicates! The key to that value is that the Cyclones have played a much tougher schedule than West Virginia has so far this season. That is why West Virginia has been a double digit favorite in 4 of their 5 games this season while Iowa State has been an underdog in 4 of their 5 games and that includes being a double digit underdog each of the last 3 times the Cyclones were a dog. Iowa State enters this game with added confidence after the big win at Oklahoma State last week. While some may expect them to now fall flat at home, this is the Cyclones only home game in a span of 5 weeks as they've been on the road for back to back weeks plus they have a bye week on deck. That said, Iowa State is going to make the most of this opportunity to host a ranked and undefeated Big 12 foe! As for the Mountaineers, they also have a bye on deck but that situation can play out much different mentally when you are an undefeated team. West Virginia is likely already thinking about their bye and could look right past a Cyclones team they have enjoyed plenty of success against in recent meetings. The Mountaineers, in fact, are known for this is in recent seasons as they are 1-4 ATS their last 5 against teams with a losing record while the Cyclones are known for stepping up against tougher competition as they are 11-2 ATS their last 13 games against teams with a winning record! 10* IOWA STATE |
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10-13-18 | Saskatchewan v. Winnipeg -3.5 | Top | 0-31 | Win | 100 | 5 h 53 m | Show |
Game of the Week - Rickenbach CFL Game #664 Saturday 10* Top Play Winnipeg Blue Bombers (-) vs Saskatchewan Roughriders @ 2 ET - The Blue Bombers have lost both match-ups with the Riders this season and that is despite holding the yardage edge in each game! In other words it is payback time Saturday in Winnipeg and the situation is perfect. The Bombers are looking up in the standings at the Roughriders and are highly motivated as they still need to secure a post-season spot. Winnipeg also has a big rest edge here as they're OT win at Ottawa was on Friday last week while Saskatchewan is coming off of a hard-fought home win versus Edmonton that was played on Monday! The Roughriders are on an 8-15 ATS run in Saturday games and are on short rest here too. The Blue Bombers are 12-6 ATS in Saturday games, 16-8 ATS when playing with revenge, and 14-6 ATS when facing a team with a winning record. Combined edges of 57-28 (67%) in favor of the home favorite here. Lay it! 10* WINNIPEG |
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10-12-18 | Dodgers v. Brewers OVER 7.5 | Top | 5-6 | Win | 107 | 14 h 30 m | Show |
Contrarian Crusher - Rickenbach MLB Game #901 Friday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Milwaukee Brewers vs Los Angeles Dodgers @ 8:05 ET - Of course playoff baseball generally leads to lower scoring games but this pitching match-up is likely to lead to an over and I am being a contrarian and looking for this one to easily get over the low total. The key here is two-fold. The Brewers Gio Gonzalez is pitching after a long layoff. Too much time between starts generally leads to struggles for starting pitchers in terms of locating their pitches properly and getting into a groove on the mound. As for the Dodgers Clayton Kershaw, the staff ace has been struggling in recent road starts. In fact, Kershaw has allowed 12 runs (11 earned) in his last 3 road starts spanning 17 innings. The over is a perfect 3-0 in those 3 starts. As for Gonzalez, only 3 of his last 10 starts have resulted in an under! He has been held to 5 innings or less in 6 of his last 9 starts. 2 of the last 3 starts Gonzalez has made this season have gone over the total. Also, 2 of the 3 games played between these teams at Miller Park this season went over the total. The Brewers have averaged scoring 6 runs per game in their last 5 games at home. The Dodgers have averaged scoring 9 runs per game in their last 4 games on the road. Some confident sticks at the plate in this one. 10* OVER the total in Milwaukee |
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10-12-18 | South Florida v. Tulsa +7.5 | Top | 25-24 | Win | 100 | 14 h 58 m | Show |
ESPN Smash Pass - Rickenbach CFB Game #110 Friday 10* Top Play Tulsa Golden Hurricane (+) vs South Florida Bulls @ 7 ET - From mid-September to late-October, this is the only home game for Tulsa. The fact that they are getting to host a conference foe that is currently a Top 25 team and it is a weeknight game with the ESPN cameras rolling just adds to the factor that the Golden Hurricane are going to be sky high for this game. Yes Tulsa's record looks bad but they've played a much tougher schedule than South Florida has and the Golden Hurricane have been done in by turnovers. Each of the last two games for Tulsa have been "phony finals" where the final score has not been commensurate with the yardage for the game. Also, the Golden Hurricane lost by just 7 points at Texas earlier this season. As for the Bulls, they won by 16 at UMass last week but allowed nearly 500 yards to the Minutemen. 5 turnovers is what led to the big win for South Florida. Their two prior wins were both by 7 points or less and those were teams they were favored to beat by 2 or 3 TDs. In other words, the Bulls are coming into this game over-valued while the Golden Hurricane are certainly under-valued at this point in the season. Look for redshirt freshman Seth Boomer to play much better in his 2nd start at home after having to play on the road last week. Tulsa was a 17 point dog at Houston in that game and led the game outright by 9 points in the 4th quarter before things came unraveled due to turnovers. This Golden Hurricane team is so hungry and has proven they can hang with teams like Houston and Texas on the road. In other words, facing USF at home is certainly not going to be as tough as a task as those games were and Tulsa covered both of those games. The Golden Hurricane are 8-2 ATS when facing a team with a winning record. South Florida is 2-6 ATS in a road game with a posted total in the range of 56.5 to 63 points. 10* TULSA |
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10-11-18 | Eagles -2.5 v. Giants | Top | 34-13 | Win | 100 | 15 h 16 m | Show |
Primetime Punisher - Rickenbach NFL Game #103 Thursday 10* Top Play Philadelphia Eagles (-) @ New York Giants @ 8:20 ET - The Eagles have won 3 straight SU in this series. With this number dropping back down to a -2.5 on Philly, there is great value with the small road favorite in this one. Philadelphia has lost back to back games SU and has failed to 4 straight games but that has led to line value in this spot. Home field has not meant a lot in this series and, that said, laying less than Field Goal with the super bowl champs is excellent line value. Yes the Eagles are banged up at RB but they still have plenty of talent at the skill positions plus a powerful offensive line and one of the better defensive lines in the league. The Giants are just 1-4 SU this season and off a disheartening late loss at Carolina after rallying back for a shot at the victory. That is a tough loss to bounce back from and this is particularly true on a short week. Look for Eagles QB Carson Wentz to deliver a huge game here and look for Philly to dominate in the trenches as Philadelphia improves to 5-2 ATS the last 7 times they've entered a game off 2 or more consecutive SU losses. The Eagles are 3-0 SU and ATS their last 3 Thursday games. The Giants are 0-2 SU and ATS their last 2 Thursday games. 10* PHILADELPHIA |
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10-11-18 | Avalanche -104 v. Sabres | Top | 6-1 | Win | 100 | 13 h 5 m | Show |
Earliest Cash - Rickenbach NHL Game #5 Thursday 10* Top Play Colorado Avalanche Money Line (-) @ Buffalo Sabres @ 7 ET - The Avalanche are in the pick'em price range here and that is offering great line value with the much better team. Of course we get the low line here because the Avs are on the road and I love this spot for a bounce back for Colorado. The Avalanche started Phillip Grubauer in Tuesday's loss at Columbus but Semyon Varlamov should be back between the pipes for this one. Colorado is 2-0 with him in the crease this season and the Avs have won those two games by a combined score of 9-3. The Sabres are off rare back to back wins but note that Buffalo was oushot by a combined tally of 81 to 46. In other words, give some credit to the Sabres but also note that they've been quite fortunate. Sure there have been some changes for both hockey clubs coming into this season but, keep in mind, Buffalo was dead last in the standings last season out of all 31 NHL teams while the Avalanche made the playoffs last year. This is a tremendous value spot for taking the Avs at a great price and I won't pass it up and, in fact, am raising this one to Top Play status due to the superb line value. Sabres off B2B wins and Avalanche off a bad loss where they know they played poorly combines for a great situational spot. 10* COLORADO |
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10-09-18 | Red Sox v. Yankees OVER 9 | Top | 4-3 | Loss | -100 | 10 h 51 m | Show |
Total of the Week - Rickenbach MLB Game #921 Tuesday 10* Top Play OVER the total in New York Yankees vs Boston Red Sox @ 8:05 ET -Monday's game flew over the total and the over is now 7-1 in the last 8 meetings between these teams. Overall, the over is now 9-1 in the Yankees last 10 games and 7-1 in Boston's last 8 games. Look for the huge run production to continue this evening between these teams on an evening with very mild weather for October in the Bronx tonight and light winds blowing out toward left. Boston's Rick Porcello has allowed 11 earned runs in just 20 innings in his last 4 road starts. He is not pitching deep in recent outings away from home and he also hasn't been overly dominant as you can see with those numbers. The Red Sox right-hander also gave up 5 earned runs in just 5 and 1/3 innings in his most recent start at Yankee Stadium. The Yankees CC Sabathia allowed 3 earned runs in 3 innings in his most recent start versus the Red Sox and walked 4 in that short stint. Though his prior home start versus Boston went well, the one just prior to that in May saw Sabathia get crushed in the Bronx by the Red Sox. The point is that he has been roughed up more often than not in his outings versus the powerful Boston lineup. The Red Sox continued their assault on opposing pitchers in yesterday's blowout win. Look for both teams to pound the ball in this one. 10* OVER the total in New York Yankees |
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10-09-18 | Sharks v. Flyers -101 | Top | 8-2 | Loss | -101 | 12 h 8 m | Show |
NBC Sports Network Rout - Rickenbach NHL Game #4 Tuesday 10* Top Play Philadelphia Flyers Money Line (-) vs San Jose Sharks @ 7:05 ET - Even though James van Riemsdyk, the Flyers prized off-season acquisition, is out for this game there is still plenty of positive buzz around this team right now. This is Philadelphia's home opener and the Flyers are in a great scheduling spot here as they've been off since Saturday. Philly is hungry as that Saturday game was a loss at Colorado which followed a fantastic effort on the ice in Vegas on Thursday as they upset the Golden Knights in a very tough barn to play in! Now the Flyers are in bounce back mode and while it is true that the Sharks are also in bounce back mode. It is also true that San Jose is in a tough scheduling spot. This is a back to back spot for the Sharks after they lost 4-0 against the New York Islanders yesterday. The scheduling situation certainly favors the Flyers. Also, San Jose will likely go with back-up goalie Aaron Dell between the pipes in this one as Martin Jones was in goal last night. Though Dell has had success against the Flyers in the past there is certainly a reason he has always been the back-up to Jones in San Jose. Big scheduling edge and great line value here for the home team as the Flyers opened up as the dog in this match-up. Also note that, in terms of special teams, the Sharks have yet to score a power play goal in their 3 games while they've also allowed a 25% conversion rate for their opponents on the power play this season. 10* PHILADELPHIA |
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10-08-18 | Redskins v. Saints -6 | Top | 19-43 | Win | 100 | 13 h 60 m | Show |
ESPN Smash Pass - Rickenbach NFL Game #478 Monday 10* Top Play New Orleans Saints (-) vs Washington Redskins @ 8:15 ET - The Redskins are coming off of their bye week but are just 2-8 ATS their last 10 after a bye. The Saints have a bye week on deck and are 7-3 ATS when playing the week before a bye. We also have good value here in that Washington has overachieved early this season while the Saints have underachieved early this season. Yes New Orleans is 3-1 on the season but everyone remembers their opening game loss at home versus Tampa Bay and then how the Saints barely beat the Browns in Week 2. This is why New Orleans is less than a TD favorite hosting the Redskins here while last season they were favored by nearly double digits when they hosted Washington! Certainly one could argue that the Redskins have the better defense in this match-up but the Saints are the better team on offense and I expect Washington will not be able to keep up here. Keep in mind, this is just the 2nd time this season that the Redskins are on the road. Their first road game was against an Arizona team that is 1-4 on the year and playing at New Orleans is certainly a much tougher draw than facing the Cardinals at Arizona! The Saints are also 7-0 ATS in their last 8 October games while Washington is 0-4 ATS their last 4 games on Monday night football. That is an 11-0 / 100% perfect situation favoring the home team in this one! 10* NEW ORLEANS SAINTS |
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10-08-18 | Red Sox v. Yankees OVER 8.5 | Top | 16-1 | Win | 102 | 11 h 13 m | Show |
Primetime Punisher - Rickenbach MLB Game #913 Monday 10* Top Play OVER the total in New York Yankees vs Boston Red Sox @ 7:40 ET - Even though Saturday's game just missed going over the total, the over is still 6-1 in the last 7 meetings between these teams. Overall, the over is still 8-1 in the Yankees last 9 games and 6-1 in Boston's last 7 games. Look for normalcy to resume this evening between these teams on an evening with rather mild weather for October in the Bronx tonight. Luis Severino dropped off a lot with his 2nd half results compared to the 1st half of the season. Also, Rick Porcello has allowed 11 earned runs in just 20 innings in his last 4 road starts. He is not pitching deep in recent outings away from home and he also hasn't been overly dominant as you can see with those numbers. The Red Sox right-hander also gave up 5 earned runs in just 5 and 1/3 innings in his most recent start at Yankee Stadium. Severino was strong against Oakland in the wild card game and, no disrespect to the A's intended, the fact is the Red Sox lineup he is facing tonight is much stronger than that Athletics lineup. 10* OVER the total in New York Yankees |
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10-08-18 | Edmonton v. Saskatchewan OVER 52.5 | Top | 12-19 | Loss | -115 | 6 h 25 m | Show |
Game of the Week - Rickenbach CFL Game #657 Monday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Sasktachewan Roughriders vs Edmonton Eskimos @ 4 ET - Cold weather in Saskatchewan this afternoon but not much, if any, precipitation expected and the winds won't be bad either. That said, both offenses can be fully functional. The Eskimos are off a bad effort on the scoreboard last week and I expect them to make up for that here but the Edmonton defense won't be able to stop the Roughriders offense. Last week Edmonton piled up a ton of yardage but was done in by 5 turnovers. It was absolutely a phony final in terms of the lack of points the Eskimos offense ended up with considering how they moved the all up and down the field. As for the defense, Edmonton has allowed an average of 33.3 points per game their last 3 games as they continue to have issues on that side of the ball. The Roughriders are off a 34-29 win last week and Sasktachewan is averaging 31 points per game the last 7 weeks! When they're hot the point totals tend to keep climbing and the over is a perfect 4-0 this season when the Riders are on a winning streak of 2 or more games. As for the Eskimos, they are 4-1 to the over when playing on a Monday and 4-1 to the over when playing with 8 days of rest between games. Edmonton also is a perfect 2-0 to the over this season when off a loss in divisional action. 10* OVER the total in Saskatchewan |
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10-07-18 | Dodgers v. Braves +1.5 | Top | 5-6 | Win | 103 | 10 h 28 m | Show |
Game of the Week - Rickenbach MLB Game #958 Sunday 10* Top Play Atlanta Braves Run Line +1.5 runs (+) vs Los Angeles Dodgers @ 8:05 ET - This is a ton of value here. The Braves are looking to avoid elimination and, even on the run line at +1.5 runs, they are available at plus money on their home field. Even if Atlanta loses a tight one by a single run, you can still cash a ticket on the run line at +1.5 runs in this one. The Braves Sean Newcomb very nearly no-hit the Dodgers here in Atlanta in late July. Yes the Dodgers Walker Buehler has been pitching well but, just like Newcomb, he does not have post-season experience. I also like having the Braves sticks at home and the Dodgers are on a winning streak but are still just 13-16 (-$14,400) this season when they enter a game on a winning run of 3 or more consecutive games. Also, Los Angeles is 38-45 (-$24,400) in road games with a posted total of 8 or 8.5 runs. The Braves are 9-5 this season when they enter a game on a losing streak of 3 or more games. Also, Atlanta is 17-7 in Sunday games this season. With their backs against the wall, the Braves bounce back here and get at least the "cover" in a game where I just don't see the Dodgers ever being able to establish a big lead. 10* ATLANTA BRAVES Run Line +1.5 runs |
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10-07-18 | Cardinals v. 49ers OVER 40 | Top | 28-18 | Win | 100 | 8 h 29 m | Show |
Total of the Week - Rickenbach NFL Game #469 Sunday 10* Top Play OVER the total in San Francisco 49'ers vs Arizona Cardinals @ 4:25 ET - The Cardinals are the only NFL team that has yet to have a game result in an over. Of course odds are that this can't continue for too long into the season! This looks like the perfect spot for their first one! San Francisco actually got a solid effort from Beathard (replacement for the injured Garappolo) last week other than the turnovers. He threw for nearly 300 yards. The Cardinals defense is allowing 23.5 points per game this season. The 49ers defense has allowed at least 24 points in all four of their games this season. San Francisco has allowed 33.5 points per game the past two week. The Niners didn't use the ground game as much last week but it has been solid this season and the Cardinals run defense is not good. The SF pass defense has been their weak link this season and Josh Rosen is getting more comfortable with each game under center for Arizona. Keep in mind Larry Fitzgerald and JJ Nelson each dropped TD passes from Rosen last week. This Cardinals team has been on the cusp of more points and they'll get them today against a suspect Niners pass defense. The Cards defense won't be able to stop a Niners offense that has scored at least 27 points each of the last 3 weeks. Take advantage of the low total here. The over is 7-2 in San Francisco's games in weeks 5 through 9 of a season. The over is 11-5 in Arizona's road games. The over is 3-0 in the 49ers last 3 games overall. 10* OVER the total in San Francisco |
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10-07-18 | Jaguars +3 v. Chiefs | Top | 14-30 | Loss | -110 | 28 h 7 m | Show |
Game of the Week - Rickenbach NFL Game #453 Sunday 10* Top Play Jacksonville Jaguars (+) @ Kansas City Chiefs @ 1 ET - The Chiefs are undefeated on the season but coming off of a short week and a last minute win at division rival Denver on Monday night. Kansas City also has a big game on deck with the Patriots! KC has won each of the last 3 meetings with Jaguars so this is a triple revenge spot for Jacksonville. Keep in mind, none of the 4 teams that KC has beaten currently have a wining record. As for the Jags, they've beaten the Patriots (3-2 and arguably better than that record indicates of course) and they lost to a Titans team that is now 3-1 on the season. The Jaguars were one of the top teams in the AFC last season and they are well aware of the undefeated record of the Chiefs here. Public bettors will be enamored with backing a home team laying just a field goal considering they haven't lost a game yet this season. The fact is that the road dog is the way to go here as Jacksonville it highly motivated and the Chiefs are truly in a tough scheduling spot. Also, as good as Patrick Mahomes and the KC offense has been, the Kansas City defense is one of the worst in the league right now while the Jaguars are one of the best teams in the league on defense. 10* JACKSONVILLE |
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10-06-18 | Notre Dame v. Virginia Tech OVER 54.5 | Top | 45-23 | Win | 100 | 36 h 56 m | Show |
Total of the Week - Rickenbach CFB Game #349 Saturday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Virginia Tech Hokies vs Notre Dame Fighting Irish @ 8 ET - Notre Dame if off of a huge effort on defense versus Stanford as they held them to just 229 yards last week. After such a strong effort in such a big game, it is only normal for a drop-off to occur in the next game. While that would normally make Virginia Tech worth a look as a side play here, I simply don't trust their defense. The Hokies came up big at Duke last week but they allowed over 600 yards at Old Dominion the prior week. Virginia Tech is allowing over 300 passing yards per game this season even though two of their games were against Old Dominion and William & Mary! Couple that with the fact that Notre Dame is getting their passing game going (over 275 yards passing in 3 of last 4 games) and the fact that the Irish ground game has totaled over 240 yards in 3 straight games, and you have the makings of a back and forth shootout. Light winds and mild temperatures are expected in Blacksburg as well as very little chance of precipitation so the set up is perfect for a high-scoring game. The Hokies had to go to their back-up QB last week but that worked out just fine as he threw for over 300 yards. Virginia Tech is averaging scoring 38 points per game this season but they won't be able to stop the ND offense here. The Fighting Irish are 5-2 to the over the last 7 times they've been a road favorite and this looks like another one here as the over improves to 3-1 in the Hokies last 4 games. 10* OVER the total in Virginia Tech |
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10-06-18 | Yankees v. Red Sox OVER 9 | Top | 6-2 | Loss | -100 | 12 h 4 m | Show |
Primetime Punisher - Rickenbach MLB Game #953 Saturday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Boston Red Sox vs New York Yankees @ 8:15 ET - David Price is known for struggling against the Yankees ever since he came to Boston. This has been particularly true at Yankee Stadium but, even when Price has faced the Yanks at Fenway Park, things haven't exactly gone smooth for the Boston southpaw. Earlier this season the Yankees knocked Price out of a start early - a game in which he lasted only 1 inning. Also, New York got to him for 4 earned runs in just 5 and 1/3 innings when they most recently faced him less than 3 weeks ago. He won't be the only starting pitcher struggling in this one. Masahiro Tanaka gets the start for the Yankees here and the right-hander compiled a 9.00 ERA in his final two starts of the season. Also, Tanaka compiled a 7.58 ERA in his four starts versus the Red Sox this season. The over is 4-1 in Price's last 5 starts this season. The over is 3-0-1 in Price's 4 starts versus the Yankees this season. The over is a perfect 3-0 in Tanaka's last 3 starts. Also, the over is 3-0-1 in his 4 starts versus the Red Sox this season. Overall, with yesterday's game flying over the total, the over is now 6-0 in the last 6 meetings between these teams. Overall, the over is 8-0 in the Yankees last 8 games and 6-0 in Boston's last 6 games. More of the same expected here. 10* OVER the total in Boston |
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10-06-18 | Kentucky v. Texas A&M -5.5 | Top | 14-20 | Win | 100 | 35 h 7 m | Show |
Game of the Week - Rickenbach CFB Game #382 Saturday 10* Top Play Texas A & M Aggies (-) vs Kentucky Wildcats @ 7 ET - The Wildcats are 5-0 this season and the Aggies are just 3-2 and yet opened up as nearly a TD favorite. Long-time followers know where I am going with this one! Texas A & M has played the tougher schedule and also is very tough at home. The odds makers know this too and that is why this line is priced like this. The Aggies have had time to adjust now under new head coach Jimbo Fisher and, keep in mind, the two losses that Texas A & M has on its ledger came against Clemson and Alabama! The Aggies put up nearly 400 yards against the Crimson Tide and did reach 500 yards against the Tigers! Those are very impressive numbers for any offense going against a defense like each of those teams possess. That said, there is great value here because I don't believe the Wildcats offense can keep with the Aggies here. Kentucky has averaged just 313.5 yards per game on offense the past two weeks. Texas A & M is averaging over 500 yards per game this season despite having to play Clemson and Alabama this year! The Wildcats are off of a huge win versus South Carolina last week but 4 Gamecocks turnovers were the key to the victory as the yardage was nearly equal. This is a high value spot for a play because right now the betting markets are enamored with the Wildcats but the unranked Aggies are favored at home for a reason and they prove that to everyone here. As a road dog of 3.5 to 7 points, Kentucky is a long-term 7-15 ATS. The Aggies are already 4-1 ATS this season and are coming off of their first non-cover this season. That makes this the perfect time to back them! 10* TEXAS A & M |
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10-05-18 | Yankees v. Red Sox OVER 7.5 | Top | 4-5 | Win | 100 | 12 h 16 m | Show |
Total of the Week - Rickenbach MLB Game #905 Friday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Boston Red Sox vs New York Yankees @ 7:30 ET - It is true that the weather will be cool in Boston this evening as you would expect for early October. The point being that this is nothing new and this is still a hitter-friendly park. As a result, this total dropping to a 7.5 is offering excellent line value on the over. Keep in mind, the Red Sox bullpen struggled at times down the stretch run of the season and just how long will Chris Sale actually last in this game? Yes the Boston left-hander is a fantastic pitcher but his last 4 starts of the season averaged only 3 innings per game. Also, he has allowed 5 earned runs in 8 innings spanning his most recent two starts. Though he has impressive numbers against the Yankees in two starts this season he did allow 8 hits in 6 innings in his lone start versus the Bronx Bombers at Fenway Park. Also, the southpaw took the loss in two starts versus the Astros in the post-season last year and finished up that losing series with an 8.38 ERA. I know J.A. Happ has been strong for the Yankees since they got him but he did allow 9 runs (4 earned) in his two starts at Fenway Park this season. That includes the Red Sox having just faced him here last week. Also, Happ has a solid ERA in limited post-season action but he was very lucky because he has a 1.81 WHIP in his 19.1 innings of playoff work. That means he has allowed an average of nearly 2 baserunners per inning his career post-season appearances. That won't get the job done at Fenway Park I can tell you that much! Take advantage of the low total as the over improves to a perfect 6-0 in the last 6 games between these bitter rivals! 10* OVER the total in Boston |
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10-04-18 | Colts v. Patriots OVER 51.5 | Top | 24-38 | Win | 101 | 36 h 11 m | Show |
Contrarian Crusher - Rickenbach NFL Game #301 Thursday 10* Top Play OVER the total in New England Patriots @ 8:20 ET - First off let me state that I am well aware that there are some injury concerns relating to the Colts TY Hilton and the Patriots Rob Gronkowski. However, did you see the yardage totals and pass catch totals that the Colts put up against the Texans last week that were unrelated to Hilton? The fact is that this Indianapolis team still have plenty of weapons even if Hilton doesn't play and I love the situation here. The Patriots needed a win badly last week and they got it as they dominated the over-rated Dolphins on both sides of the ball. However, now there will be the proverbial "let up" in defensive intensity after the Pats D "saved face" last week. The fact is that New England had allowed an average of 447.5 yards per game in their two prior games and the Patriots had allowed an average of 25.7 points per game in their first three games this season. The Colts threw for over 400 yards in last week's loss versus the Texans and though there may be some scattered showers in Foxboro Thursday evening, the winds are expected to be light with mild temperatures. In other words, both offenses will be fully functional. The Patriots are a long-term 28-15 to the over in games versus AFC South opponents. Also, in home games with a posted total of 49.5 points or more, the Pats are on an 18-9 run to the over. As a road dog of 7.5 to 10 points, the Colts are on a 19-7 run to the over. In October games, Indianapolis is on an 8-2 run to the over the past two seasons. Take advantage of the drop on this total (has fallen from its opener). 10* OVER the total in New England |
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10-03-18 | A's v. Yankees OVER 8.5 | Top | 2-7 | Win | 102 | 12 h 5 m | Show |
Primetime Punisher - Rickenbach MLB Game #939 Wednesday 10* Top Play OVER the total in New York Yankees vs Oakland A's @ 8:05 ET - The Yankees wrapped up the regular season on a 10-2 run to the over which included each of their last 6 games games going over the total. I expect that trend to continue here in the Wild Card game. We get a low total of 8.5 in this one and I look to take advantage of the low number. As the Yankees lineup has gotten healthier they've been hitting the ball better. They should enjoy success against the A's whom have designated this as a "bullpen game" as Liam Hendriks gets the start but he will only go an inning or so in this. Then it will be a combination of pitchers to try to get the job done against the powerful Yankees lineup. I don't expect that to go well. However, the good news for A's fans is that Oakland should enjoy plenty of success at the plate too. Luis Severino gets the start for the Yankees and he struggled in the post-season last year and also has struggled in the second half of this season. The Yankees right-hander went 5-6 with a 5.57 ERA and a .291 BAA after the All-Star break. Severino allowed 5 earned runs in less than 3 innings of work when he faced the Athletics in early September. Since July 1st, the over is 12-3 (80%) in Severino's last 15 starts. The over is 10-3-1 in Oakland's last 14 games. With both teams trending over and Severino's struggles likely to continue and fairly mild weather in the Bronx this evening, all signs are pointing to plenty of runs in this one. 10* OVER the total in the New York Yankees game |
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10-02-18 | Rockies +126 v. Cubs | Top | 2-1 | Win | 126 | 10 h 20 m | Show |
Primetime Punisher - Rickenbach MLB Game #937 Tuesday MLB 10* Top Play Colorado Rockies Money Line (+) @ Chicago Cubs @ 8:05 ET - The Rockies lost at Dodger Stadium yesterday but they were a big dog there and it was not a huge surprise (though I did expect them to get the upset). In other words, it is not hugely detrimental to their mindset. Conversely, the Cubs lost at home to the Brewers yesterday and the Cubs were favored in that game. This is a big blow to Chicago as they were on their home field and had a chance to sew up the home field edge for the National League post-season and they blew it. I believe that loss for the Cubs is much more painful for them than the defeat the Rockies suffered yesterday. Don't be surprised if the Rockies, despite the travel and being on the road a 2nd straight game, prove to be the more aggressive and upbeat team here. A lot of positive vibes in that clubhouse right now. As for the 2016 World Series Champion Cubs, there is still a little of bit of the feeling of what should have been in terms of home field edge for the playoffs, etc. The Rockies Kyle Freeland gives the road dog a big edge on the mound over the Cubs Jon Lester in this one in my opinion. Lester has been a little shaky late in the season as was strong in the first half of the season but has a 4.50 ERA and has been hit at a .303 clip since the All Star break! Compare this to Freeland whom is 9-1 with a 2.49 ERA since the All Star break! Also, the Rockies southpaw is 12-4 with a 2.49 ERA in his night starts this season. The Rockies were 9-1 their last 10 games prior to yesterday's loss. As for the Cubs, yesterday's loss drops them to just 17-15 their last 32 games which is hardly impressive. The road dog here has been the much hotter team and I like the hot pitcher Freeland over the fading Lester too. 10* COLORADO |
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09-30-18 | Ravens v. Steelers -2.5 | Top | 26-14 | Loss | -120 | 22 h 25 m | Show |
Game of the Month - Rickenbach NFL Game #276 Sunday 10* Top Play Pittsburgh Steelers (-) vs Baltimore Ravens @ 8:20 ET - The Steelers have defeated the Ravens three straight times. Pittsburgh lost their only home game this season so you know they're going to be ready to go here and make up for the defeat versus Kansas City two weeks ago. As for their other two games, the Steelers did have to settle for a tie versus Cleveland but that was truly a crazy finish after Pittsburgh did lead 21-7 in the 4th quarter. As for their other game (a win last week versus the Bucs), the final score was tight but the Steelers were up huge in that game. You can bet that after these disappointing finishes (blown big leads) and having lost their only game at Heinz Field so far this season, Pittsburgh is going to go a full 60 versus their hated rival, the Ravens, in this one. Of course the betting markets focus on Baltimore's big win last week and the fact that the Steelers let some leads slip away and so now the market has made the move toward Baltimore here. More often than not I like to fade the popular choice and the Ravens are attracting the money in this one. Again, Steelers will not let up against Baltimore like they did against the Browns and Lions. Also, I prefer having Ben Roethlisberger as my QB here rather than Joe Flacco as the latter tends to be turnover prone in the biggest of situations. Note also that, per the injury reports, the Ravens are the more banged up team. Baltimore is only 3-10 SU and 5-7-1 ATS the last 13 times they've been an underdog. The Steelers are 10-3 SU (9-4 ATS) the last 13 times in games their line ranges from +3 to -3. Pittsburgh is 10-2 ATS when they are off of a non-divisional games and facing a divisional foe that has double revenge against them. Steelers haven't lost B2B home games since early in the 2016 season and I don't expect them to drop to 0-2 at home on the season. 10* PITTSBURGH |
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09-30-18 | Saints v. Giants OVER 51.5 | Top | 33-18 | Loss | -112 | 19 h 34 m | Show |
Total of the Week - Rickenbach NFL Game #273 Sunday 10* Top Play OVER the total in New York Giants vs New Orleans Saints @ 4:25 ET - Giants gave up 368 yards through the air last week. Of course the New York offense is not considered their strength but they have been consistent through the air and have thrown for at least 210 yards every week. The Giants aerial attack should have no problem with the Saints defense this week. New Orleans is allowing an average of 337 passing yards per game. On the flip side, it is unlikely the Giants are going to be able to slow down the Saints offense. They are averaging 345 passing yards per game and 35 points per game. The over went 8-3 the past two seasons when New Orleans faced teams with a losing record and I look for them to take advantage of a Giants defense that is not as strong as it has been in the past. Dating back to the regular season and including their post-season games, the Saints are now on a 5-1 run to the over after last week's high-scoring OT win at Atlanta. 62% of the Giants plays this season have been passing plays. 67% of the Saints plays this season have been passing plays. With both teams defenses susceptible to the pass that will be the emphasis of each offense here and, of course, an emphasis on the pass means even more plays and less running clock. Don't let the big number fool you here. With the weather also expected to be ideal for this game, there will be no limitations on either offense here. 10* OVER the total in the New York Giants game |
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09-29-18 | Ole Miss v. LSU OVER 60 | Top | 16-45 | Win | 100 | 33 h 10 m | Show |
Total of the Week - Rickenbach CFB Game #195 Saturday 10* Top Play OVER the total in LSU Tigers vs Ole Miss Rebels @ 9 ET - The Rebels are known for their offense but also have no defense. This has certainly been the case early this season. Ole Miss is averaging over 500 yards of offense per week but is also giving up over 500 yards. The Rebels have averaged 42 points per game so far this season. However, they've allowed an average of 40 points per game the past 3 games. Against LSU, Ole Miss has allowed an average of 39 points per game. The Tigers are allowing 244 passing yards per game and the Rebels strength on offense is their aerial attack as they are averaging 347.5 passing yards per game! Ole Miss also has enough of a running attack to keep the LSU defense "honest" (they have to respect the run) so the balanced attack should lead to plenty of plays downfield. As an underdog of 3.5 to 10 points, Ole Miss is 4-2 to the over. Also, the Rebels are 7-2 to the over in games played in weeks 5 through 9. The Tigers normally do tend to trend under but they certainly have not given up the points that one would have expected based on the yardage allowed in their games this season. Louisiana Tech threw for over 300 yards on the Tigers defense last week and the Rebels are even more dangerous in that regard. That said we have great line value here because Ole Miss won't be able to stop the LSU attack. The Tigers have been very balanced on offense this season and have even enjoyed success against tough defenses like Auburn and Miami - which are certainly much better than the Rebels defense. 10* OVER the total in LSU |
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09-29-18 | Ohio State v. Penn State +4 | Top | 27-26 | Win | 100 | 32 h 31 m | Show |
Game of the Month - Rickenbach CFB Game #162 Saturday 10* Top Play Penn State Nittany Lions (+) vs Ohio State Buckeyes @ 7:30 ET - Though Ohio State has been getting the SU wins in recent meetings between these teams, Penn State has covered 3 of the last 4 meetings between these rivals. Also, neither one of these teams has faced a tough schedule so far this season. That said, while one could argue that the Nittany Lions are unproven so far, one should also consider that the Buckeyes have played an easy schedule thus far. That said, what sticks out in the minds of most in the betting markets is that Ohio State has dominated every single week while the Nittany Lions struggled to get past Appalachian State in week one. The key though is that PSU has responded since then with 3 straight blowout wins and they get this game at home plus they are an underdog of more than 3 points. I feel we're getting excellent line value here as a result. While it is true that Penn State has struggled at Ohio State for many years now, it is also true that they give the Buckeyes all they can handle when they meet at State College. The Nittany Lions have covered all but 4 of the last 12 meetings in Happy Valley and and they've won half of the dozen games straight-up. The public is enamored with Ohio State right now (as per usual) but they truly struggled to get past TCU and that is the same Horned Frogs team that just lost badly to Texas. The Frogs lost by 15 points and turned the ball over 4 times in that game. The point is that Ohio State may be just a little over-rated right now. The Nittany Lions are a superb 16-2 SU (and 17-1 ATS!) when they enter a game off of 2 or more consecutive SU wins. In recent seasons Penn State is 5-1 ATS as an underdog. Also, long-term as a home dog of 3.5 to 7 points, the Nittany Lions are also 5-1 ATS! Ohio State is just 1-3 ATS their last 4 on grass. Also, the Buckeyes are 2-4 ATS as a favorite of 3.5 to 10 points. The last two match-ups have been decided by a TOTAL of just 4 points! Grab the value with the home dog points in this one. 10* PENN STATE |
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09-29-18 | Tigers v. Brewers OVER 8.5 | Top | 5-6 | Win | 100 | 12 h 34 m | Show |
Total of the Week - Rickenbach MLB Game #979 Saturday MLB 10* Top Play OVER the total in Milwaukee Brewers vs Detroit Tigers @ 7:10 ET - The Brewers are still battling for the NL Central Division title. The Tigers have now gone over the total in 3 straight games after yesterday's 6-5 loss. They'll now take advantage of facing Wade Miley, a pitcher they have familiarity with from his days in the AL. The Brewers left-hander has lasted 5 innings or less in each of his last 3 starts. Miley has walked as many as he has struck out as he seems to be fading late in the season. Detroit will have Daniel Norris on the mound and he has allowed 16 in his last 26 and 2/3 innings. Also, the Tigers lefty has been rocked for 19 hits in just 15 innings spanning his last 3 starts. The Brewers enter this game having won 8 of their last 10 games. Milwaukee has scored at least 6 runs in 7 of those 8 victories. The Tigers have allowed 6.4 runs per game in their last 13 games. Look for another wild one here as Norris is likely to get knocked out early, Miley also has not been working deep into games, and the Detroit bullpen has a 4.44 ERA and ranks in the lower third of the majors for bullpens. The over is on a long-term 75-49 run in Brewers games against left-handed starters. 10* OVER the total in Milwaukee |
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09-29-18 | Winnipeg v. Edmonton OVER 56 | Top | 30-3 | Loss | -108 | 11 h 37 m | Show |
Total of the Year - Rickenbach CFL Game #675 Saturday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Edmonton Eskimos vs Winnipeg Blue Bombers @ 7 ET - As you would expect for late September in Edmonton, the weather will be cold tonight. However, no precipitation is expected and the winds are not expected to be significant either. That said, look for these two offenses (two of the tops in the CFL as they are only behind league-best Calgary) to have huge games. The Eskimos defense has struggled badly of late and the Blue Bombers can (and will) put up points in a hurry. We're getting line value here because Edmonton put up only 15 points last week. That was a "fluke" performance as they actually gained plenty of yardage but were done in by 2 fumbles, 1 interception, and twice they turned the ball over on downs. Those same mistakes, from a highly talented Eskimos offense, are unlikely to recur here at home! The over is 4-1 in the last 5 meetings between these teams. The average point total in those 4 overs was 65 points. That said, even though 56 is a sizable total, you can see why I still expect them to top this by 10 or more points. The over is 7-3 when the Eskimos are a home favorite in a range of 3.5 to 7 points. The over is 4-0 this season in Winnipeg's games against teams with a winning record. The over is also a long-term 20-8 in Blue Bombers divisional games. This one has shootout written all over it. 10* OVER the total in Edmonton |
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09-27-18 | Vikings +7.5 v. Rams | Top | 31-38 | Win | 100 | 11 h 2 m | Show |
Primetime Punisher - Rickenbach NFL Game #101 Thursday 10* Top Play Minnesota Vikings (+) @ Los Angeles Rams @ 8:20 ET - The betting markets often operate on a short-term memory and, as a result, there can be excellent line value in situations like this. As of early game day morning, the line on this game has been driven up to as high as a 7.5 as many just can't stop thinking about that embarrassing home loss the Vikings just had against the Bills on Sunday. The keys to the value here are that, prior to that game, Minnesota had a tough early season schedule as the Niners (with Garappolo at QB) were certainly a formidable match-up and then the Vikings went to Lambeau Field. After having to settle for a tie at division rival Green Bay and then knowing that this big match-up with the Rams was on deck, it is not a huge surprise that he Vikes were flat against Buffalo. Of course an outright loss was not expected but some struggles were expected. The fact that Minnesota did lose outright (and bad) actually only strengthens the power of this situation here. The Vikings will be ready to go and they're taking on a Rams team that has beaten the Raiders, Cardinals, and Chargers. Those 3 teams have a combined record of 1-8 this season! I do respect the Rams but they are truly getting too much respect from the betting markets here and the fact that we can now get 7 plus the hook in this one has me raising it to a top play. In terms of long-term technical data, the Vikings are 8-4 ATS their last 12 games against the Rams and Los Angeles is on a 2-8 ATS run in Thursday games. The Vikes should improve to 4-0 ATS their last 4 games versus NFC West opponents. 10* MINNESOTA |
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09-27-18 | Braves -113 v. Mets | Top | 1-4 | Loss | -113 | 11 h 30 m | Show |
Game of the Month - Rickenbach MLB Game #953 Thursday 10* Top Play Atlanta Braves Money Line (-) @ New York Mets @ 7:10 ET - Though the Braves have had the NL East clinched for quite some time, they are certainly still highly motivated here. Atlanta wants the #2 seed for the post-season in the NL so they have home field edge in their first series. They are only one game up on the red hot Rockies for that spot so there is no doubt the Braves will still go hard here. Keep in mind, Atlanta had won 6 straight games before getting shutout by the Mets in a 3-0 loss last night. Look for payback tonight. The Braves Julio Teheran has had some command issues (leading to too many walks in recent outings) but he still has allowed just 14 hits in the 23 and 1/3 innings spanning his last 4 starts. Also, versus the Mets, Teheran has a 2.22 ERA in his 23 starts against them in his career. This season he has held them to 5 earned runs on just 12 hits in 19 and 2/3 innings spanning his last 3 starts against them. As for the Mets Jason Vargas, the southpaw is 0-2 in his last two home starts versus the Braves as he got crushed for 10 earned runs in less than 10 innings of work in those two outings plus he allowed 3 homers. Vargas also enters this start having allowed 4 homers in the 15 innings spanning his last 3 starts overall. Prior to yesterday's win, the Mets had lost 6 of their last 10 and, of course, have had a disappointing overall season. Braves are still 20-8 their last 28 games against teams with a losing record and bounce back big here. 10* ATLANTA |
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09-26-18 | Brewers v. Cardinals OVER 8.5 | Top | 2-1 | Loss | -100 | 10 h 27 m | Show |
ESPN Smash Pass - Rickenbach MLB Game #905 Wednesday 10* Top Play OVER the total in St Louis Cardinals vs Milwaukee Brewers @ 7:10 ET - Normally in a crucial late-season series packed with playoff pressure you might expect a tight low-scoring battle. That is the norm after all. But it all depends on the pitching match-ups and, as we saw yesterday, when the pitching match-up is conducive to an over, things can get crazy in a hurry! The Brewers were especially hot at the plate yesterday but the Cardinals have also been producing some big performances at the plate in recent games too. The fact is that both lineups should stay hot this evening based on this pitching match-up. Milwaukee's Jhoulys Chacin did have a strong start versus the Cardinals in mid-August but he entered that start with an 11.00 ERA in his two prior starts versus St Louis this season! Also, he has not been able to pitch very deep into games of late and the Brewers bullpen got a lot of work in yesterday's game as did the Cardinals. St Louis could see their pen called upon early again here too because John Gant has struggled in his last two starts with 7 earned runs allowed in just 7 innings and command (7 walks in 7 innings) continues to be an issue for him. Also, against the Brewers he has a 1.92 WHIP in two career starts. The big bats of Milwaukee make you pay more often than not when you're allowing too many baserunners and that has been a recurring them for Gant. With yesterday's 12-4 Brewers win, the over is now 8-0 in the Cardinals last 8 starts. The over is on an 11-6 run in Chacin's last 17 starts. Look for another slugfest Wednesday. 10* OVER the total in St Louis |
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09-25-18 | Marlins v. Nationals OVER 7.5 | Top | 4-9 | Win | 100 | 10 h 32 m | Show |
Primetime Punisher - Rickenbach MLB Game #951 Tuesday MLB 10* Top Play OVER the total in Washington Nationals vs Miami Marlins @ 7:05 ET - Of course the Nationals are a huge favorite (even on the run line) in this one but if you truly believe Washington is going to have a big day at the plate (and I do strongly believe that), there is another much more economical way to get involved here. The over opened at only a 7.5 because Max Scherzer is on the mound for the Nats. Now of course he is a great pitcher but, keep in mind, he has one more regular season start after this and he can't get to 20 wins. His only real motivation is to get to 300 strikeouts and he has 290 so he has two starts to pick up 10. The point is that with playoff elimination a virtual certainty for Washington, there is no need to over-work Scherzer here. Plus he has a 5.40 ERA in his last 3 starts and the Marlins have scored an average of 5 runs per game in their last 3 games. Of course once he has out of the game a "middle of the pack" Nationals bullpen will be in play here. Speaking of bullpens, Miami ranks as the worst in MLB on the year and they could be called upon early. Marlins starter Jeff Brigham is 0-3 with a 5.84 ERA and 1.70 WHIP in his first 3 starts. Walks continue to be an issue for him and now he faces a Nationals lineup that has scored 6 or more runs in 3 straight games. More of the same here and, considering Brigham has averaged just 4 innings per start and the Miami bullpen is a major weakness, I wouldn't be surprised to see Nats get this total by themselves. However, look for the Marlins to contribute quite well. The over is 3-0 in Scherzer's last 3 starts and I expect another one today. As a road dog of +240 or more this season the Marlins are 7-0 to the over. Combined 10-0 / 100% perfect streak tested here. 10* OVER the total in Washington |
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09-24-18 | Steelers +1 v. Bucs | Top | 30-27 | Win | 100 | 12 h 30 m | Show |
Primetime Punisher - Rickenbach NFL Game #489 Monday 10* Top Play Pittsburgh Steelers (+) @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ 8:15 ET - The winless Steelers are at the 2-0 Buccaneers and the earliers lines on this game had Pittsburgh as nearly a field goal favorite. Now the Steelers are the underdog in this match-up as of early Monday morning and I love the value we're getting here with the road team. While it is true that Tampa Bay is 2-0 this season, it is also true that the Bucs have allowed an average of 376.5 passing yards per game. That porous pass defense will be trying to stop Big Ben and Company and note that the Steelers passing attack is averaging 377.5 passing yards per game thus far. Look for that match-up to be the key to this game. Yes I know that the Pittsburgh run defense has not been good so far this season but they'll be fired up in the trenches and ready to go here as a winless team on the road under the Monday Night lights. Big opportunity for the Steelers here and note that Tampa Bay managed less than 2 yards per carry in their win last week. In games with a line between +3 and -3, the Steelers are on a 9-3 SU run. Pittsburgh also is a long-term 31-10 SU in Monday night games! In games with a total of 49.5 points or more, Tampa Bay is a long-term 4-12 SU! You can see that a lot of points are expected here and I don't expect the Buccaneers to be able to keep up. Under Mike Tomlin, the Steelers are 11-2 ATS when they are a road dog and facing an opponent that is off of back to back straight up wins. Of course that system is in effect here and I am grabbing the very hungry road dog in this one. 10* PITTSBURGH |
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09-24-18 | Astros v. Blue Jays OVER 9 | Top | 5-3 | Loss | -114 | 11 h 34 m | Show |
Total of the Month - Rickenbach MLB Game #913 Monday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Toronto Blue Jays vs Houston Astros @ 7:05 ET - The Blue Jays Marco Estrada and the Astros Dallas Keuchel matched up on June 27th and that game totaled 13 runs. I wouldn't be surprised to see a similar end result tonight. Houston's Keuchel has seen the over go 4-1 in his 5 starts versus the Jays in his career. Toronto's Estrada enters this start off of a solid outing at Baltimore but this certainly has been the exception rather than the norm lately for the Blue Jays right-hander. He entered that start having been crushed to the tune of a 12.60 ERA over his 4 prior starts. The Astros game yesterday ended up being a push to the total so they are still on a 3-0 run to the over entering this match-up. Also, in road games with a posted total of 9 or 9.5 runs, Houston is on a long-term 47-23 run to the over. As a road favorite of -175 or more, the Astros are on a 21-10 run to the over. As a home underdog of +175 or more, the Blue Jays are 20-8 to the over! Only 1 of Keuchel's last 5 road starts have remained under the total. The Jays lost 5-2 yesterday but had previously won 6 of their last 8 games and averaged scoring 5 runs per game. The point being that the Jays are still playing hard to close out the season while the Astros are working hard to try and lock up the AL West title. Houston has won 6 of their last 8 games and averaged scoring 6 runs per game in the process. 10* OVER the total in Toronto |
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09-23-18 | Patriots v. Lions UNDER 54 | Top | 10-26 | Win | 100 | 27 h 52 m | Show |
Total of the Month - Rickenbach NFL Game #488 Sunday 10* Top Play UNDER the total in Detroit Lions @ 8:20 ET - This total opened up in the mid-40s (very early line but this still tells you something) and got steamed up all the way up into the mid-50s. I feel we are getting excellent line value here because this game is going to be much of a chess match than many people realize. Now I know when you look at the Lions and all the points that have been scored against them you would find this hard to believe. However, the fact is that Detroit has allowed an average of only 347.5 yards per game so far this season. Their head coach, Matt Patricia, was the defensive coordinator at New England from 2012 to 2017. You know that Patriots head coach Bill Belichick is going to want to prove here whom really is the mastermind behind making proper defensive adjustments. This is why I mentioned "chess match" previously because I really believe we are going to see this game be much more about defense than many are expecting. With the Pats off of a bad game defensively against a highly motivated Jaguars team, I expect Belichick's group to be ready to return to the form that led to just 325 yards being allowed versus the Texans in Week 1. New England, prior to last week's dismal effort, had allowed 20 points or less in 13 of their last 16 games (regular season and playoffs included). In true road games (not including neutral site games), the Patriots offense has been held to 27 points or less in 6 of their last 7 games. Now you see why the odds makers had this total in the mid-40s to start with! Indeed, look for it to finish in the 40s as both coaches look to one up the other with quite the effort in terms of play-calling on the defensive side of the ball in this one. In road games with a posted total of 49.5 points or more, New England has stayed under in 5 of 6 (83%). In home games with a posted total of 49.5 points or more, the Lions have stayed under in 11 of 17 (65%). Look for another one here. 10* UNDER the total in Detroit |
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09-23-18 | Red Sox v. Indians OVER 9.5 | Top | 3-4 | Loss | -100 | 10 h 43 m | Show |
ESPN Smash Pass - Rickenbach MLB Game #969 Sunday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Cleveland Indians vs Boston Red Sox @ 7:05 ET - Talk about relaxed hitters at the plate...the Red Sox have clinched the AL East and the the Indians have clinched the AL Central. Neither lineup wants to lose their "rhythm" right before the playoffs either. In other words guys are "locked in" at the plate but certainly not feeling any pressure either. That leads to some high-scoring games in match-ups like these with two sub-par pitchers. The Red Sox hand the ball to Hector Velazquez and he has allowed 10 earned runs in less than 7 innings spanning his last two starts. The Tribe will hand the ball to Adam Plutko and he got rocked by Boston last month and he enters this start in poor overall form. The Indians right-hander has allowed 9 earned runs in less than 11 innings spanning his last two starts plus he gave up 3 homers in EACH of those starts! The over is 5-0 in Boston's last 5 games. The over is 2-0 in the last 2 starts Velazquez has made. Last but certainly not least, the over is a perfect 7-0 this season in Indians home games in which their money line is ranging from -125 to +125. This is combined trending of 14-0 / 100% PERFECT in favor of the over in this match-up. Look for a slug-fest Sunday evening at Progressive Field. 10* OVER the total in Cleveland |
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09-23-18 | Cowboys v. Seahawks -120 | Top | 13-24 | Win | 100 | 23 h 2 m | Show |
Game of the Week - Rickenbach NFL Game #486 Sunday 10* Top Play Seattle Seahawks Money Line (-) vs Dallas Cowboys @ 4:25 ET - This line has dropped so low on the home favorite Seattle that the Seahawks money line (as of Saturday evening) is now available for as low as a -120 price. I'll take it! While Dallas is off of their first home game of the season (and a win), it is Seattle that is now playing their home opener and that is still seeking their first win of the season. Yes the Cowboys have revenge from the home loss to the Seahawks late last season that basically ruined Christmas for Dallas but the fact is that the value is with Seattle in this match-up. Yes, I am well aware of the fact that this Seahawks team is not the same team it has been in recent seasons but that is also why we're getting phenomenal line value here. That is factored into this line and Seattle is a different "animal" when they play at home too! In a home game with a posted total between 38.5 and 42 points the Seahawks are 4-0 SU their last 4. Seattle is also 4-1 (SU and ATS) their last 5 vs NFC East opponents. When installed as a home favorite of 3 points or less, the Seahawks are a long-term 26-10 ATS. Note also that Seattle is on an 8-0 / 100% PERFECT ATS run when they are a home favorite and they are entering the game off of back to back SU losses. That system fits here and the Cowboys offensive line is a shell of its former self and I expect the Seahawks defense to take advantage! 10* SEATTLE |
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09-22-18 | Troy -4.5 v. UL-Monroe | Top | 35-27 | Win | 100 | 28 h 29 m | Show |
Game of the Week - Rickenbach CFB Game #397 Saturday 10* Top Play Troy Trojans (-) @ UL-Monroe Warhawks @ 7 ET - I am well aware that there are some weather concerns in the Monroe area for Saturday. However, this side play is such a fantastic situation that I am not going to shy away from it. The hope is that any weather in the area happens earlier in the day and does not interrupt this game. UL Monroe's home stadium is FieldTurf which helps in term of drainage and avoiding a super muddy field as can be the problem on natural surfaces should there be rain in Monroe on Saturday. In my opinion Troy is still the class of the SunBelt Conference and to get them at this low of a number against a Warhawks team that has not won more than 4 games in a year since the 2013 seasons, is a great bargain! Some may be concerned about the Trojans being off the big upset win at Nebraska last week but, keep in mind, two years ago, Troy was nearly a double digit dog at Southern Miss and got the upset win over the Golden Eagles and then turned around won their next game by a 46 point margin. The Trojans last year had the huge upset of LSU and then faltered the next week as they lost outright as a nearly 20 point favorite. Trust me, lesson learned and this Trojans team is fully focused on the task at hand this week. That "task" is that this is their conference opener and Troy will be ready to go here in a big way. Also note that UL-Monroe is actually 1-7 ATS the last 8 times they've faced a team that is off of an outright win as an underdog! Of course that system fits with the Trojans off the upset of the Corhuskers as a double digit dog last week. Also, the Warhawks lost big to Texas A & M last week and failed to cover. That is noteworthy here as UL-Monroe is 1-6 ATS the last 7 times they were off of a SU loss that was also an ATS loss in non-conference action. This is the Warhawks SunBelt opener too and it is time to get serous in conference action. That favors the more talented and stronger Trojans and I am happy to lay the short number. We just need to keep the storms away from the Monroe area as much as possible. They are expected to move away during the evening hours. 10* TROY |
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09-22-18 | Orioles v. Yankees OVER 9.5 | Top | 2-3 | Loss | -102 | 7 h 11 m | Show |
Afternoon Annihilation - Rickenbach MLB Game #915 Saturday 10* Top Play OVER the total in New York Yankees vs Baltimore Orioles @ 4:05 ET - Yesterday the Orioles got to the Yankees bullpen for 6 runs in 3 innings! Today the Yankees starter is Lance Lynn and he has averaged just 5 innings per start over his last 7 starts! In other words there could be plenty of bullpen damage being done again today. Also helping the cause is that Lynn is off of back to back solid outings but he had previously allowed 19 earned runs in 18 and 2/3 innings over his prior 4 starts. He has been "on the fade" for awhile and I like the fact that the Orioles saw him in July and he only had two strikeouts in that game. Baltimore has gotten to Lynn for 24 hits in just 16 and 1/3 innings spanning his last 3 starts against them. As for the O's starter, David Hess, he is off of a start in which he allowed 3 homers and that is bad news as he now faces the Bronx Bombers. The Yankees lineup has been bolstered recently with guys getting healthy again and the ball was flying out of the park last night and should continue to do so this afternoon. The over is 3-0 in the last 3 starts Hess has made as he has compiled an unimpressive 6.08 ERA and 1.73 WHIP in those outings. As a home favorite in a money line range of -250 to -330, the Yankees are now 10-3 to the over this season. Just like yesterday's slugfest, this one should fly over the total easily. 10* OVER the total in the New York Yankees game |
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09-22-18 | Edmonton v. Ottawa OVER 54 | Top | 15-28 | Loss | -105 | 8 h 1 m | Show |
Total of the Week - Rickenbach CFL Game #653 Saturday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Ottawa Redblacks vs Edmonton Eskimos @ 4 ET - Beautiful weather in Ottawa Saturday afternoon. The Eskimos are off of their bye week but their prior game totaled 90 points. I do not trust Edmonton's defense but they certainly can put up plenty of points as they are averaging nearly 30 points per game. Look for the Redblacks to match them score for score in this one and that sends it flying over the total. Ottawa has a bye on deck so they're certainly going to go all out here. Also, this is the Redblacks only home game in the month of September and they scored just 11 points in their most recent game as a host. In other words they've been waiting for this one and ready to make up for that poor effort in their most recent game in front of home fans. The over is 4-0 in Edmonton's last 4 games in which they are a road favorite of 3 or less points. Look for the over to improve to 8-4 the last 12 times that the Redblacks have faced a team with a winning record in the 2nd half of a season. Big game here between two teams with winning records and it will be the offenses that "prevail" in this one. 10* OVER the total in Ottawa |
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09-22-18 | Kansas v. Baylor OVER 55 | Top | 7-26 | Loss | -122 | 25 h 5 m | Show |
Total of the Month - Rickenbach CFB Game #385 Saturday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Baylor Bears vs Kansas Jayhawks @ 3:30 ET - I am well aware that there are some weather concerns in the Waco area for Saturday. However, having previously lived in Texas before moving out to Las Vegas, I can tell you from experience that the typical pattern is storms move quickly in and out rather than becoming entrenched for a long period of time in one area. Again, this is the case more often than not and I expect them to get this game in even if there would happen to be a weather delay which, of course, would be unfortunate but we can not control that. What I do know is that it the turf at Baylor's home stadium is a type of artificial turf and, as a result, we don't have to worry about the field getting sloppy if there is rain at some point during the day Saturday. The key to the value here is the Bears offense is certainly still a potent one but their defense continues to be a major weakness. Of course Kansas is known for having a bad defense as that has been the case for many years now. What I like about the Jayhawks here is they have averaged over 300 rushing yards their past two games and Baylor has allowed at least 220 rushing yards in 2 of their 3 games this season. As for the Bears offense, they've averaged 500 yards per game so far this season. Keep in mind the Jayhawks defense has some good numbers so far this season only because they've been fortunate in terms of turnovers and because they've faced some very weak offenses. That changes in a big way this week and note that the over is 2-0 in Baylor's games this season and the Bears are 7-3 to the over the last 10 times they've been a home favorite of 7.5 to 10 points. The Jayhawks are 19-11 to the over when they enter a game off of back to back SU wins. Also, Kansas is 3-0 to the over in their last 3 road games with a posted total in a range of 49.5 to 56 points. 10* OVER the total in Baylor |
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09-21-18 | Montreal +10.5 v. Winnipeg | Top | 14-31 | Loss | -103 | 12 h 55 m | Show |
Game of the Month - Rickenbach CFL Game #651 Friday 10* Top Play Montreal Alouettes (+) @ Winnipeg Blue Bombers @ 8:30 ET - Last week's final score would indicate that Montreal got blown out but that was a fluke final score fueled by late defensive touchdowns for Hamilton. That sets this one up well for some additional value on the Alouettes. Even though the Blue Bombers are off of a bye week they can't help but be looking ahead to a big showdown with Edmonton next week as that is a divisional foe. Winnipeg also might be a victim of over-confidence here and look right past the Als as the Bombers have defeated Montreal 4 straight times. I love the value with the road dog in this one as it has been a road-dominated series ATS and we're able to get double digits here. The road team is 5-0 ATS in the last 5 meetings which includes the Alouettes losing their last last visit to Winnipeg by just a single point! The visit before that Montreal won by 8 points as an underdog. We're getting great line value here as the Blue Bombers have allowed an average of 36.5 points per game in going 0-4 SU in their last 4 games! The Alouettes are 4-0 ATS as a road dog of 10.5 to 14 points. The Als are also 4-0 ATS in road games with a posted total of 52 points or more. Winnipeg is 0-4 ATS the past 4 weeks. That means we have a combined 12-0 / 100% perfect ATS mark in support of Montreal in this one. Look for Alouettes QB Johnny Manziel to be much better in his return as the starting QB here. 10* MONTREAL |
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09-21-18 | Orioles v. Yankees OVER 9 | Top | 8-10 | Win | 100 | 10 h 49 m | Show |
Total of the Week - Rickenbach MLB Game #965 Friday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Baltimore Orioles vs New York Yankees @ 7:05 ET - The Yankees, despite last night's loss to the Red Sox, are still in great shape in terms of notching a wild card berth. However, they haven't clinched yet and, as a result, they'll continue to field strong lineups with their regular starters until they do so. That said, as downtrodden as the Orioles have been this season, they'd still love to play the role of spoiler as much as possible here and I expect Baltimore to have a big night at the plate against CC Sabathia. The Yankees southpaw is on the fade of late as he has a 9.29 ERA in his last 3 starts. He allowed 3 homers in his most recent start which was versus Toronto. Also, in his last 3 starts versus the Orioles (all this season) Sabathia has a 6.00 ERA and has given up 5 homers in 15 innings! As for Baltimore starter Yefrey Ramirez, he is certainly also likely to struggle in this one. He is 0-2 versus the Yankees this season with a 10.00 ERA in his two outings. The over is 6-3 in the Yankees last 9 games. The over is 3-0 in the Orioles last 3 road games. As a home favorite in a range of -250 to -330, Yankees games are 9-3 to the over this season. Look for another slugfest in this one! 10* OVER the total in the New York Yankees game |
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09-20-18 | Jets +3.5 v. Browns | Top | 17-21 | Loss | -100 | 47 h 32 m | Show |
Thursday Thrasher - Rickenbach NFL Game #301 Thursday 10* Top Play New York Jets (+) Cleveland Browns @ 8:20 ET - I understand the line completely as many experts feel the Jets and Browns are equal teams and therefore Cleveland is merely favored for home field edge here. However, the fact that we can get +3 or even +3.5 with New York in some shops as of Tuesday night is a big value in this one when you consider that Browns have not won a single game since Week 16 of the 2016 season! I really like the fact that the Jets outgained the Dolphins by over 100 yards last week but yet came up on the wrong end of the scoreboard. This also helped add line value this week because, keep in mind, the Jets blasted the Lions in Week 1. As for Cleveland in Week 1, yes they did tie Pittsburgh but the Steelers gave that game away late as they blew a 21-7 lead. Pittsburgh actually outgained the Browns by 145 yards in Week 1. The Browns tie with the Steelers and their close battle with the Saints last week become less impressive when you consider both of those teams have plenty of issues as they each are still seeking their first win of the season. That said, I am certainly not saying that the Jets are not without some issues too but you can absolutely see why, per all of the above as well as New York's stat edges early this season, I am happy to back the road dog here and fade a team that hasn't even won a game since 2016. The Jets have failed to cover just once in their last five versus AFC North opponents. Cleveland was 7-4 SU through game 11 in the 2014 season. Since then the Browns are 4-49 SU! Will I fade a team that is laying 3 plus the hook in some spots and has won just 4 of its last 53 games? Yes indeed and I will elevate this to a Top Play too. 10* NEW YORK JETS |
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09-20-18 | Tulsa v. Temple OVER 55 | Top | 17-31 | Loss | -115 | 46 h 29 m | Show |
ESPN Smash Pass - Rickenbach CFB Game #303 Thursday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Temple Owls vs Tulsa Golden Hurricane @ 7:30 ET - This total was as high as a 59 but it has now dropped down to as low as a 55 as of Tuesday night. I like the added value here as I am expecting quite the shootout. The Temple defense may not have a lot left in the tank after the Owls went on the road and upsetting Maryland last week thanks in part to a huge effort from the D. As for the offense of the Owls, they are expected to get a boost with the return of QB Frank Nutile this week. Temple's O will take advantage of facing a Tulsa defense that has been one of the worst in the nation in recent years. The Golden Hurricane have allowed 441.5 yards per game the past two weeks. The point totals allowed could have easily been higher. As for the offensive production of Tulsa they've waited to get going until too late in their game each of the past two weeks (at Texas and versus Arkansas State). Certainly they've learned their lesson and will be flying around from the opening whistle in this one and taking advantage of a Temple D still basking in their huge effort from last week. That said, you can see why I am expecting the Golden Hurricane to score plenty put with their sub-par defense, they won't stop the Owls either! Temple has averaged 32 points per game their past two games and they'll get at least that here as Nutile will be unleashed. The Owls had a lot of success on D last week because they were able to take the ground game of the Terrapins away but they won't be able to do that against the powerful ground game of the Golden Hurricane. The over is 4-1 the last 5 times that Tulsa has been an underdog in a range of 3.5 to 10 points. Each of the last two meetings between these teams went over the total and that included last year's game which totaled 65 points. More of the same here. By the way, weather in Philly for Thursday evening looks good! 10* OVER the total in Temple |
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09-20-18 | Angels v. A's OVER 9 | Top | 3-21 | Win | 100 | 7 h 40 m | Show |
Earliest Cash - Rickenbach MLB Game #907 Thursday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Oakland A's vs Los Angeles Angels @ 3:35 ET - The A's drilled the Angels 10-0 last night. The over is now 13-4 in Oakland's last 17 games. Also, Los Angeles is 7-1-1 to the over this season when they are off of a shutout loss. In home games with a posted total of 9 or 9.5 runs, only 6 of Oakland's 19 games have stayed under the total. The Angels Matt Shoemaker has allowed 6 earned runs on 12 hits in less than 10 innings of work spanning his last two starts. He also has a rather poor 1.59 WHIP in his last two starts versus Oakland and certainly this Athletics lineup is surging right now! Edwin Jackson gets the start for the A's here and, though he was successful in his most recent start versus the Angels, don't be surprised if the quick second look (just saw him last month) gives LA the edge in the rematch. Jackson struggled badly and allowed 4 earned runs in just 3 innings in his most recent home start. The over is 2-1 in Jackson's last 3 starts and 2-1 in Shoemaker's 3 road starts this season. More of the same expected on a mild afternoon in Oakland with the wind blowing out toward right field. The Angels had averaged scoring 6 runs per game in their 3 games prior to being shutout last night. The A's are 10-1 to the over in their last 11 home games as they remain especially hot at the plate in their home games. 10* OVER the total in Oakland |
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09-19-18 | Royals v. Pirates -1.5 | Top | 1-2 | Loss | -100 | 10 h 3 m | Show |
Run Line Rout - Rickenbach MLB Game #978 Wednesday 10* Top Play Pittsburgh Pirates Run Line -1.5 runs vs Kansas City Royals @ 7:05 ET - The Pirates, though mathematically still alive, certainly have slim hopes of a Wild Card berth at this point in the season. However, that hasn't stopped them from playing hard. Last night's win was their 4th straight and Pittsburgh is now 10-3 in their last 13 games. Keep in mind, the Bucs are hosting one of the worst teams in baseball in this interleague match-up and last night's loss dropped Kansas City to 22-52 on the road this season. Even though Pirates starter Chris Archer gave up some big hits versus the Brewers early in his most recent start, he settled down and pitched quite well overall. I like the fact that Archer has allowed only 13 hits in his last 17 innings while striking out 19 during this span. Also, in his last two starts versus the Royals, Archer has held them to just 3 earned runs on only 11 hits while striking out 17 over 15 and 1/3 innings. KC sends Heath Fillmyer to the mound and the Royals are 0-4 in his road starts this season as he has been rocked to the tune of a 12.40 ERA in his starts away from home. More of the same expected tonight. The Royals are 5-24 in their last 29 games versus a team with a winning record. Of course I would never lay huge juice on a money line but I love the value of the run line here with the Pirates available as low as even money by laying the 1.5 runs. Pittsburgh has won 14 of 19 interleague games this season while Kansas City has lost 13 of 17 against NL teams. 72 of the Royals 99 losses have come by 2 or more runs this season. 49 of the Pirates 76 wins have come by 2 or more runs this year. I like the odds on a home blowout in this one with Archer over Fillmyer! 10* PITTSBURGH Run Line |
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09-18-18 | Cardinals v. Braves OVER 8.5 | Top | 8-1 | Win | 100 | 10 h 52 m | Show |
Total of the Year - Rickenbach MLB Game #905 Tuesday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Atlanta Braves vs St Louis Cardinals @ 7:35 ET - The Cardinals were crushing extra base hits all over the park in last night's 11-6 win. Both bullpens struggled in that game. St Louis is one of the top teams in the majors for slugging percentage on the road. Atlanta is among the top teams in the majors for batting average versus left-handed pitching. Cards southpaw Austin Gomber has allowed 25 hits in the 16 innings spanning his last 3 starts. The lefty has given up 10 earned runs in the 9 innings over his last two starts. As for the Braves starter in this one, Anibal Sanchez issued 5 walks in just 6 innings in his most recent start. He'll be facing a Cardinals lineup that has plenty of confidence at the plate right now. They crushed the ball last night and the Cards are 7-0 in Atlanta in their last 7 games there and 6 of the 7 have gone over the total. In fact, in all match-ups between these teams (including those in St Louis), the over is 13-3 in the last 16 games! With the way both bullpens struggled last night and the fact that both of these starters are likely to encounter some tough times in the early going of this one, plus a manageable total in the 8.5 range as of early Tuesday morning, you have a nice set-up here for what should be an easy over. Also, the over is 8-4 in the Braves last 12 games. St Louis is 8-4 to the over the last 12 times they've been a road dog in the +125 to +175 range. The Braves, when past the midway point of a season and facing a team with a wining record on the year, have gone 72-46 to the over. Look for all of the aforementioned trends to add another W on the over side of the ledger Tuesday evening. 10* OVER the total in Atlanta |
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09-17-18 | Nationals v. Marlins OVER 8.5 | Top | 5-8 | Win | 100 | 10 h 28 m | Show |
Earliest Cash - Rickenbach MLB Game #953 Monday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Miami Marlins vs Washington Nationals @ 7:10 ET - Erick Fedde is off of a surprisingly strong start in his last outing but he faced the Phillies in the middle of a major slump. Prior to that outing Fedde had compiled a 6.26 ERA while allowing 35 hits in just 27 and 1/3 innings spanning his 6 prior starts. In other words, one shouldn't over-react to one strong start from Fedde and I look for him to struggle at Miami tonight. Of course the Marlins are likely to have pitching issues of their own here. Not only is the Marlins bullpen (5.47 ERA) ranked dead last in the majors this season, starting pitcher Trevor Richards has been struggling. The over is 5-0-1 in Richards last 6 starts as he has allowed 23 earned runs on 31 hits in just 27 and 1/3 innings of work. The over is 3-0 overall in the Marlins last 3 games and Washington is 8-4 to the over in their last 12 games. Look for more of the same on Monday as both starters struggle. 10* OVER the total in Miami |
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09-16-18 | Giants v. Cowboys OVER 41.5 | Top | 13-20 | Loss | -110 | 22 h 22 m | Show |
Total of the Week - Rickenbach NFL Game #287 Sunday NFL 10* Top Play OVER the total in Dallas Cowboys vs New York Giants @ 8:20 ET - The total has trended under in recent meetings between these teams. Also, each of their games in Week 1 of this season went under the total. You know what that means for me on Sunday night don't you? OVER! The fact is that the Dallas offense is going to come out like they have a fire lit under them after that dismal effort at Carolina in Week 1. Of course the Giants are going to blitz and try to pressure Prescott but the Cowboys will be ready and the running of Elliott as well as Prescott having some quick throws to beat the blitz is likely to lead to some big plays for this Dallas offense. Keep in mind the Cowboys put up an average of 423 yards per game on the Giants in last year's meetings. New York's offense struggled against Dallas last season but with Beckham back at wide receiver and the explosive Barkley (out of Penn State) in the backfield, the Giants offense is going to really pressure the 'Boys defense in this one! The last 4 times that Dallas has been held to 8 points or less in a game their next game has averaged a total of 50 points and all 4 games totaled at least 46 points! Look for the Cowboys offense to bounce back here but they're going to struggle to stop the Giants here (hungry after scoring just 15 points last week) and that helps to send this one flying over the total. 10* OVER the total in Dallas |
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09-16-18 | Dodgers v. Cardinals OVER 8.5 | Top | 0-5 | Loss | -113 | 11 h 48 m | Show |
Primetime Punisher - Rickenbach MLB Game #907 Sunday 10* Top Play OVER the total in St Louis Cardinals vs Los Angeles Dodgers @ 8:05 ET - The Dodgers Ross Stripling has averaged less than 5 innings per start in his 4 starts since the All Star break. In those outings, the LA right-hander has compiled a 5.50 ERA and has given up 21 hits in 18 innings. He hasn't been as sharp as usual nor as he been as strong as usual. As for the Cardinals Adam Wainwright, he allowed 2 homers in his return to the rotation on Monday and that was against a Pirates team that certainly has not been swinging the bats like this Dodgers team has. Los Angeles, after yesterday's blowout win over the Cards, has averaged scoring 6.6 runs per game their last 11 games. As for the Cardinals sticks, they have averaged scoring 5.6 runs per game their last 11 games. Only 38 of the Dodgers 91 games versus right-handed starters this season have stayed under the total. St Louis is 8-3-1 to the over, including 3-0 this season, in games where they are a home underdog in a range of +125 to +175. Look for the over to improve to 8-4 this season when the Cardinals enter a game on a losing streak of 3 or more consecutive games. 10* OVER the total in St Louis |
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09-16-18 | Patriots v. Jaguars +3 | Top | 20-31 | Win | 100 | 19 h 31 m | Show |
Game of the Week - Rickenbach NFL Game #283 Sunday 10* Top Play Jacksonville Jaguars (+) vs New England Patriots @ 4:25 ET - Don't underestimate that Jags win over the Giants last week in New York. The Giants have some solid talent at the skill positions with Odell Beckham, Jr back in the mix and now Saquan Barkley running very well already in his rookie campaign for New York. That said, the Patriots were somewhat fortunate to sneak past the Texans last week and that was at home. Now they play in very high heat and high humidity in Jacksonville Sunday and they face a team that should have beat them in the AFC Conference Championship Game last year and that one was in Foxboro! In other words, I like my chances with the Jaguars as they won't blow a big lead against the Pats in Jacksonville in September like they did in New England in January. The Jags outgained the Patriots in that big playoff game and also dominated time of possession but they were done in by penalties. They are going to make the most of this opportunity for revenge. Of course the Patriots have been a covering machine in recent years and that is priced into this line. In other words, the wrong team is favored here but that is to satisfy the masses and, as long-time followers of my program know, I like to fade the masses. Keep in mind, since this line has Jax as a dog we can talk about their SU streaks as they do apply here and Jacksonville has won 6 in a row SU at home. As strong as the Pats have been overall ATS they have covered just 2 of their last 5 away from home and I like the Jags in the stifling oppressive heat of Florida in this one. 10* JACKSONVILLE |
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09-15-18 | Arizona State v. San Diego State +6 | Top | 21-28 | Win | 100 | 33 h 37 m | Show |
Game of the Week - Rickenbach CFB Game #210 Saturday 10* Top Play San Diego State Aztecs (+) vs Arizona State Sun Devils @ 10:30 ET - The Sun Devils rallied for a home win against Michigan State last week. As a result, Arizona State was able to sneak by a ranked Spartans team even thought they allowed nearly 400 yards in that game. Now the Sun Devils are on the road for the first time this season and facing arguably their toughest challenge yet (first away game and hosted weak UTSA team in Week 1) and yet ASU is favored by nearly a full TD here. The markets are not grading this team properly. Head coach Herm Edwards was considered by many to be the most questionable (and possibly worst) off-season hire and now after just two games they're laying nearly a full TD on the road. I just don't see it and yes I am aware of the Aztecs QB being out for this game. Keep in mind San Diego State is a run dominated team. Also, a big key to this play is that Edwards plucked away their defensive coordinator from the Aztecs. Do you think long-time veteran head coach Rocky Long wants this game? This match-up certainly has special importance to him. He has been coaching in some capacity ever since his playing career ended in the mid-70s and he is known as a defensive specialist. He does not want to get out-witted by his pupil (the ASU DC) on the opposite sidelines. This will be Long's 230th games as an NCAA head coach while Aztecs coach Edwards does have NFL coaching experience but will be coaching his first ever road game in college action. I love the home dog here as the running game of the Aztecs and a huge edge with coach Long on our side of this play proving to be keys to victory. It also certainly is important to mention the scheduling situation here heavily favors San Diego State. While the Aztecs are at home and off of an easy win over an FCS team and with a MAC team on deck, the Sun Devils are off of a grueling upset win over a ranked Big Ten team plus they have their PAC-12 opener on deck. I'll gladly grab all the points I can get here. 10* SAN DIEGO STATE |
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09-15-18 | USC v. Texas OVER 46.5 | Top | 14-37 | Win | 100 | 30 h 11 m | Show |
Total of the Week - Rickenbach CFB Game #201 Saturday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Texas Longhorns vs USC Trojans @ 8 ET - The Horns allowed 21 points to Tulsa in the second half of last week's game and were somewhat fortunate that the Golden Hurricanes didn't score in the first half. Long story there but I won't digress. Instead, the point is that I feel there will be some carryover from the late softening of the Longhorns defense last week and USC will be able to score on Texas early and often in this one. Keep in mind UT allowed 34 points and over 400 yards at Maryland in their season opener. The issue for the Trojans in this match-up will also be their defense. They allowed over 300 rushing yards (and 7 yards per carry) in their season opener versus UNLV and then last week gave up 5.5 yards per carry as Stanford ran very well against them. USC will struggle with a balanced Longhorns attack on offense that is averaging nearly 200 rushing yards per game and is averaging 250 passing yards per game. Last year the posted total on this match-up was 20 points higher than the current posted total on this game as of early afternoon Friday. That said, I really like the value here with the over. The over is 6-3 in USC's last 9 non-conference games. The over is a long-term 15-9 in the Longhorns last 24 home games with a posted total in a range of 42.5 to 49 points. This one is posted within that range and this one flies over as there are simply too many weapons on offense and too many question marks on defense for both of these teams to result in a total as low as what is posted on this game. 10* OVER the total in Texas |
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09-15-18 | Blue Jays v. Yankees OVER 9 | Top | 8-7 | Win | 100 | 7 h 12 m | Show |
Afternoon Annihilation - Rickenbach MLB Game #965 Saturday 10* Top Play OVER the total in New York Yankees vs Toronto Blue Jays @ 4:05 ET - The Yankees rolled 11-0 yesterday. They have been crushing Blue Jays pitching including now having scored an average of 9.8 runs in their last 4 games versus Toronto. As you would expect, all 4 of those games went over the total. The Yanks sticks should certainly stay hot today as they face a struggling Sean Reid-Foley going for the Jays in this one. When he faced the Yankees last month he gave up 6 earned runs in 4 and 1/3 innings. In his most recent start (last Saturday versus Indians) he allowed 6 earned runs in just 4 and 2/3 innings. You can see why struggles are expected for Reid-Foley here and lets also not forget that Jays relievers have also been getting lit up by Yankees hitters in recent meetings. As for Yanks starter CC Sabathia, I am well aware that he has some decent numbers in recent starts against Toronto. However, his recent form has not been too impressive. Sabathia has a 5.65 ERA over his last 3 starts. The over is 44-25 in Blue Jays road games this season. Also, when they enter a game on a losing streak of 3 or more games, Toronto has gone 13-4 to the over this year. After allowing 10 or more runs in a game this season, the Jays over is 8-3. Expect another high-scoring game this afternoon in the Bronx. 10* OVER the total in the New York Yankees game |
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09-15-18 | Calgary v. Hamilton OVER 50.5 | Top | 43-28 | Win | 100 | 8 h 54 m | Show |
Total of the Month - Rickenbach CFL Game #661 Saturday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Hamilton Tiger-Cats vs Calgary Stampeders @ 4 ET - The Stamps are off of a loss last week and come into this game angry as a result. I do expect them to put up big points but, in my opinion, their defense can't be trusted right now. They've given up an average of 33.5 points in their last 4 games. Also, even though they held the Ti-Cats to just 14 points in their meeting earlier this season that was a bit of a "fluke" on the scoreboard. Hamilton was done in by penalties and turnovers in that game. Certainly the Tiger-Cats should have scored much more than 14 points considering they piled up 333 passing yards in that game. The Stampeders have averaged scoring 36.4 points per game in their last 5 meetings with Hamilton. The Tiger-Cats have averaged scoring 35.2 points per game in their last 5 games overall. This is a meeting of two offenses that have been surging and the weather is ideal for an over Saturday afternoon in Hamilton. Additionally, the total has dropped from its opener so we are getting excellent line value here. In road games with a posted total between 49.5 and 52 points, Calgary is 4-0 to the over. In home games with a posted total between 49.5 and 52 points, the Tiger-Cats are 5-2 to the over. Combined 9-2 (82%) trend I am happy to test in this one with a big play. 10* OVER the total in Hamilton |
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09-14-18 | White Sox v. Orioles OVER 9.5 | Top | 8-6 | Win | 106 | 9 h 4 m | Show |
Total Annihilation - Rickenbach MLB Game #913 Friday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Baltimore Orioles vs Chicago White Sox @ 7:05 ET - I know the White Sox, after a pretty strong run at the plate, have cooled off recently. However, the fact is that the Orioles Luis Ortiz should certainly bring out the best in them. This will be his first ever start at the MLB level and, in fact, he has only made 6 starts at the AAA level in the minors and he got hit at a .274 clip in those outings. Making the jump essentially from AA ball to the MLB level is a big jump and Ortiz has made one appearance at the MLB level and he recorded only 2 outs while being charged with 3 earned runs so he has a 40.50 ERA with the O's thus far. As for the Baltimore sticks, they have been much stronger at home than on the road in recent weeks and they should pound James Shields. The veteran right-hander gets the call for the White Sox here and he is 1-7 with a 5.82 ERA on the road this season. Also, Shields has allowed 14 earned runs on 21 hits (including 4 homers) in the 13 and 1/3 innings spanning his last 3 starts versus the Orioles. The over is 14-7 in ChiSox Friday games this season. Also, when the Pale Hose are facing a team with a losing record, the over is 25-12 their last 37 games. The Orioles are 4-2 in their last 6 home games and certainly tend to hit better at home. Adding to the value with this totals plays is that both of these bullpens (Chicago and O's) rank among the worst in the majors this season. Look for runs early, often, and throughout this one! 10* OVER the total in Baltimore |
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09-13-18 | Dodgers -1.5 v. Cardinals | Top | 9-7 | Win | 100 | 10 h 16 m | Show |
No Doubt Blowout Rout - Rickenbach MLB Game #955 Thursday 10* Top Play Los Angeles Dodgers Run Line -1.5 runs (-) @ St Louis Cardinals @ 7:15 ET - This one has the makings of a road rout. The Cardinals haven't faced Dodgers ace Clayton Kershaw in awhile and the lack of repetition certainly won't help them. The LA southpaw has dominated the Cards to the tune of allowing just 1 earned run on only 4 hits in 17 innings spanning his last two starts against them. Kershaw has struck out 30 in 23 innings spanning his last 3 starts versus St Louis. He also enters this start in superb form as the lefty hasn't allowed more than 2 earned runs in a start in nearly two months. The Cards are also going with a southpaw here. Austin Gomber, whom beat the Dodgers on August 20th in Los Angeles, gets the call here. I realize that he has a low ERA and some impressive numbers on the season. However, Gomber allowed 10 hits in 7 innings in his most recent home start and that was the only time he has had to make a 2nd start against a team this season. The point is that he got hit harder the 2nd time around and now the Dodgers are getting a second look at Gomber. LA has gone 9-3 in Kershaw's last 12 starts and 9 of their last 11 wins with Kershaw on the mound have come by a margin of 2 or more runs. The Cardinals have lost 3 of their last 5 home games and also each of their two games this month versus left-handed starters. Kershaw dominates and Gomber struggles. 10* Los Angeles Dodgers Run Line -1.5 runs |
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09-12-18 | Diamondbacks v. Rockies OVER 9.5 | Top | 4-5 | Loss | -115 | 10 h 6 m | Show |
Total of the Week - Rickenbach MLB Game #913 Wednesday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Colorado Rockies vs Arizona Diamondbacks @ 8:40 ET - The calendar says it is mid-September but it certainly won't feel like it today in Denver. High temperatures are topping out in the 90s and I expect hot bats to resume their work at Coors Field this evening as well. Yesterday's game stayed just under the total but the Rockies and Diamondbacks are primed to have big performances at the plate this evening. The over was 5-0 in Arizona's 5 games prior to yesterday's under. The Diamonbacks have averaged scoring 5 runs per game their last 7 games. The Rockies have averaged scoring 6 runs per game in going 7-3 their last 10 games. Jon Gray gets the start for Colorado here and he has just 6 strikeouts in his last 3 starts and also walked 5 batters in his most recent start. He also has given up 7 earned runs in 5 and 1/3 innings spanning his last two starts versus the Dbacks. Arizona starts Patrick Corbin tonight and the southpaw has given up 12 hits (including 2 homers) in his last 10 innings versus the Rockies. His last two road starts were strong but those were in pitcher friendly venues. Corbin had allowed at least 3 earned runs in 3 of his 4 prior road starts and also labored in his most recent start at Colorado. Look for the over to improve to 24-16 in Arizona's road games with a money line range of -125 to +125 this season. Look for the over to improve to 4-1 in the last 5 meetings between these teams as the Dbacks have averaged 5.8 runs per game their last 5 versus Colorado and the Rockies, prior to yesterday's quiet night, had averaged 7.8 runs per game in their 4 prior games versus Arizona. 10* OVER the total in Colorado |
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09-11-18 | Indians v. Rays OVER 8 | Top | 2-0 | Loss | -125 | 10 h 21 m | Show |
Primetime Punisher - Rickenbach MLB Game #969 Tuesday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Tampa Bay Rays vs Cleveland Indians @ 7:10 ET - The Rays are one of the hottest teams in the majors and, of course, rolling with momentum after rallying in the bottom of the 9th for last night's 6-5 win. Tampa Bay has now won 8 of its last 9 games and the Rays have averaged scoring 7 runs per game during this hot streak! As for the Indians, they have have averaged scoring 5.6 runs per game their last 7 games. This pitching match-up looks conducive to another high-scoring game tonight. Cleveland's Shane Bieber has a 5.83 ERA in his last 3 starts and the Tribe have not recorded a single under in any of his last 4 starts. As for the Rays Tyler Glasnow, he got destroyed by the Blue Jays in the 1st inning of his last start. Though he'll certainly perform better than that outing (didn't even get out of first inning) here, I do expect the young right-hander to still see some negative "carry-over effects" from that poor outing at Toronto. His prior start was a beauty against these same Indians but now he gives the dangerous another look at him less than 2 weeks later. That usually doesn't bode well for young starting pitchers and that is especially true when they're coming off of an outing like Glasnow just had at the Rogers Centre. Look for the over to improve to 14-7 in Cleveland's Tuesday games this season while the Rays over streak reaches 5 in a row with another high-scoring affair tonight. 10* OVER the total in Tampa Bay |
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09-10-18 | Jets v. Lions OVER 45 | Top | 48-17 | Win | 100 | 45 h 4 m | Show |
Total of the Week - Rickenbach NFL Game #479 Monday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Detroit Lions vs New York Jets @ 7:10 ET - The Lions averaged 25.6 points per game last season and will continue to be one of the better producing offenses in the league with Matt Stafford at the controls. Of course the big story in Detroit is new head coach Patricia. He was the defensive coordinator at New England of course but, as impressive as being with the Patriots sounds, the fact is the Pats defense ranked as one of the worst in the NFL last season in terms of yardage. They were a bit of a bend but don't break unit as they did better in terms of points allowed but, the point is, Patricia doesn't have the same group to work with in Detroit that he had in New England. The Lions were one of the worst units defensively in the league last year in terms of yardage allowed and weren't much better in terms of points per game. The point is I like the Lions offense to stay strong early this season but the defense will be going through a lot of adjusting early and the Jets, even with a rookie QB in Sam Darnold, have the firepower to take advantage. New York has a lot of talent at the skill positions and they will do some damage against a "questionable" Lions defense. However, it is the Jets defense that will also prove to be their downfall especially early this season. They struggled last season and this is one of the more inexperienced defenses in the league and a veteran QB like Stafford will take advantage. There is simply not a lot of veteran leadership on this Jets D. New York went over in 3 of 4 games against the NFC last season. The Lions are on a 7-2 run to the over in home games and I look for another one here. 10* OVER the total in Detroit |
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09-10-18 | Dodgers v. Reds OVER 9 | Top | 6-10 | Win | 100 | 8 h 60 m | Show |
Total Annihilation - Rickenbach MLB Game #901 Monday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Cincinnati Reds vs Los Angeles Dodgers @ 6:40 ET - The Reds Cody Reed will be making his 15th career start for Cincinnati. The Reds are 0-14 so far in those starts! Of course that is why the Dodgers are a big favorite tonight and I do expect them to hit Reed well. However, don't be surprised if Cincinnati also hits well tonight. Yes, LA's Alex Wood has been pitching very well but the Reds (.270 batting average) are actually one of the top hitting teams in the majors this season against left-handed pitching. As for the Dodgers, their .440 slugging percentage in road games this season ranks them 2nd in the National League as they are certainly one of the top slugging teams in the majors when away from pitcher-friendly Dodger Stadium. Reed gave up 6 earned runs in 5 innings at Pittsburgh last week and he is facing a Los Angeles team that has averaged scoring 6 runs per game in their last 5 games. The Reds lineup also comes into this game hot at the plate as they just finished up taking 2 of the final 3 games of a 4-game set with the Padres thanks to averaging 8 runs per game in those 3 games! The over is 11-6 in the Dodgers last 17 games against teams with a losing record while the over is 10-5 in Reds Monday games this season. More of the same here. 10* OVER the total in Cincinnati |
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09-09-18 | Astros v. Red Sox OVER 8.5 | Top | 5-6 | Win | 100 | 12 h 31 m | Show |
ESPN Smash Pass - Rickenbach MLB Game #977 Sunday 10* Top Play OVER the total in Boston Red Sox vs Houston Astros @ 8:05 ET - Yesterday's game stayed just under the total. Even though it will be a cool, fall-like evening at Fenway Park tonight, I like the over in this series finale based on the pitching match-up. The Astros Dallas Keuchel got rocked for 8 earned runs in 6 innings the last time he pitched at Fenway Park. Overall, each of his last two starts versus Boston have resulted in an over. As for the Red Sox pitching, their bullpen has been struggling in recent weeks. That could be a factor here because I expect starting pitcher Rick Porcello to struggle some too. The right-hander has a 6.46 ERA in his last 3 starts versus the Astros. Not only does that hold significance here, note that Houston has won 7 straight games and is averaging 6 runs per game. In other words, this is a very confident Astros lineup that will be stepping into the batters box versus Porcello tonight. Though the Red Sox bats have been quieter than usual so far in this series, they still have averaged scoring 7 runs per game in their last 4 home games. Boston's issue will be the fact that Porcello has not pitched more than 5 innings in any of his last 3 starts and that means a struggling bullpen is likely to be called upon early tonight. Only 3 of Porcello's 12 home starts (25%) have resulted in an under this season! Though this total may drop to an 8.5 it will likely remain at a 9 in many spots and the over is a long-term 47-23 in Astros road games with a posted total of 9 or 9.5 runs. Despite yesterday's result, the over is still a solid 7-2 this season in Red Sox home games where their money line ranges from a +125 to a -125. That over trend resumes tonight. 10* OVER the total in Boston |
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09-09-18 | Seahawks +3 v. Broncos | Top | 24-27 | Push | 0 | 19 h 16 m | Show |
Game of the Week - Rickenbach NFL Game #471 Sunday 10* Top Play Seattle Seahawks (+) @ Denver Broncos @ 4:25 ET - The Broncos, based on the markets, appear to be a popular choice this week. This is understandable from the anti-Seahawks sentiment as certainly Seattle has lost some key components from the team that took the field last season. However, I have to wonder if people heavily betting Denver stop and think about this interesting factoid: the Broncos win totals keep decreasing! They won 12 games 3 years ago, 9 games two years ago, and only were victories 5 times in 16 games last season! Is this a team you want to lay points with against a Seahawks team that still has plenty of professional pride and has been a top team for many years now. Also, do you want Case Keenum at QB or Russell Wilson? Of course most everyone would take the Hawks signal-caller give the choice! The point is just the simple fact that a little too much respect has gone the way of the Broncos in my strong opinion. We can now get a full field goal with the team, that in my opinion, is still the better team. Sure there is the important factor of home field but the Broncos have covered just once the last five times they've been a home favorite of 3 points or less. Overall, Denver's home field has been nothing special the last two seasons as they've barely played above .500 in the Mile High City. The Seahawks are 6-2 SU against AFC teams the past two seasons. The Broncos are on an overall 2-10 ATS run. You still have to score points to win games and so, while I respect the Denver defense, I think their offense is still going to have growing pains with Keenum at the helm. Seattle averaged scoring 5 points per game more than the Broncos last season plus the Seahawks D - even after personnel changes - is still a solid unit. The Hawks are also on a 4-0 ATS run when playing the first of back to back road games. Also, head coach Pete Carroll is in his 9th year with the Seahawks while Vance Joseph is in his just his 2nd with the Broncos. That difference in experience is worth something too. 10* SEATTLE |