Sports Betting

NFL Football Handicapping
Week 17 NFL Power Rankings
The Indianapolis Colts lost to the Seattle Seahawks on Saturday, but they're going to stay at the top of the Power Rankings heading into the final week of the season. The Colts were in an impossible situation on the weekend - the off-field distractions were enormous, their head coach was not on the sidelines, they were on the road, they had nothing to play for in the standings, and many of their starters were slated to get some rest. The Seahawks wanted a win in this game to wrap up homefield advantage throughout the NFC playoffs, and gave regular duty to both Matt Hasselbeck and Shaun Alexander. As a result, the Colts and Seahawks now boast the same record (13-2). However, Seattle will have to settle for spot No. 2 on this week's list, and aim to move up with a strong postseason effort. Jumping from No. 4 to No. 3 this week are the Denver Broncos, who take that spot from the Cincinnati Bengals (who fall to No. 6). The Jacksonville Jaguars and Chicago Bears each move up two positions this week to round out the top five. The New England Patriots, Pittsburgh Steelers, Washington Redskins, and Tampa Bay Buccaneers make up the rest of the Week 17 top 10. The New York Giants, Carolina Panthers, Kansas City Chiefs, and Dallas Cowboys fall outside of the top 10 this week, but they have bigger fish to fry at this point - they need to put forth a strong effort on the weekend to qualify for the postseason. In fact, this is the final edition of the Power Rankings to feature all 32 of the league's teams; starting next week, the rankings will include only those teams still in Super Bowl contention. Here is the Week 17 edition of the NFL Power Rankings. 01 - Indianapolis Colts 13-2 SU, 9-6 ATS (Last Week 01)Host the Cardinals in their final game of the regular season, which should allow them to coast into their bye week. 02 - Seattle Seahawks 13-2 SU, 9-6 ATS (Last Week 02)Have now clinched everything they can, so could rest key players during their game with the Packers this week. 03 - Denver Broncos 12-3 SU, 10-4-1 ATS (Last Week 04)Topped the Raiders on the weekend to earn a first-round bye, so Week 17 game against the Chargers means little. 04 - Jacksonville Jaguars 11-4 SU, 9-5-1 ATS (Last Week 06)Have won two in a row behind David Garrard, who threw for 292 yards and a score against the Texans last week. 05 - Chicago Bears 11-4 SU, 10-4-1 ATS (Last Week 07)Rex Grossman threw for only 166 yards versus the Packers, but it was enough to clinch them a first-round bye. 06 - Cincinnati Bengals 11-4 SU, 8-6-1 ATS (Last Week 03)Somehow lost to the Bills on the weekend, which knocked them a notch below the Broncos in the AFC seedings. 07 - New England Patriots 10-5 SU, 8-7 ATS (Last Week 10)Easy win over the Jets on Monday night was their fourth in a row. Peaking just in time for another postseason run. 08 - Pittsburgh Steelers 10-5 SU, 9-6 ATS (Last Week 11)Emphatically dumped the Browns last week for their third straight win; will look to seal up a playoff spot in Week 17. 09 - Washington Redskins 9-6 SU, 9-6 ATS (Last Week 12)Have now won four straight, and put up 35 points against the Giants on the weekend to tighten up the NFC East. 10 - Tampa Bay Buccaneers 10-5 SU, 7-7-1 ATS (Last Week 13)Sit tied with the Panthers in the NFC South after their win in Week 16. Host the Saints in their final game of the year. 11 - New York Giants 10-5 SU, 9-5-1 ATS (Last Week 05)Lost to the Redskins on the weekend, but at least they only have to play the struggling Raiders in their season finale. 12 - Carolina Panthers 10-5 SU, 8-7 ATS (Last Week 08)Let the Cowboys pull out a win in the fourth quarter on Saturday, to lose control of the NFC South. Falcons up next. 13 - Kansas City Chiefs 9-6 SU, 9-5-1 ATS (Last Week 15)Took care of the Chargers on the weekend, but will need to beat an angry Bengals team to get into the postseason. 14 - Dallas Cowboys 9-6 SU, 7-6-2 ATS (Last Week 17)Only a game back of the Giants in the NFC East now, but will need a win and some help to advance to the playoffs. 15 - San Diego Chargers 9-6 SU, 9-5-1 ATS (Last Week 09)Not a good game for Drew Brees against the Chiefs: 18-of-33 for 161 yards passing, one TD, one interception. 16 - Miami Dolphins 8-7 SU, 6-9 ATS (Last Week 18)Five straight wins for the Dolphins after beating the Titans on the weekend. 172 rushing yards for Ricky Williams. 17 - Minnesota Vikings 8-7 SU, 8-7 ATS (Last Week 14)Have now lost two in a row, and are out of the playoff picture. Play the Bears only for pride in their Week 17 finale. 18 - Atlanta Falcons 8-7 SU, 7-7-1 ATS (Last Week 16)Lost in overtime to the Bucs, and no longer have a shot at the postseason. Can play the spoiler versus the Panthers. 19 - Baltimore Ravens 6-9 SU, 7-8 ATS (Last Week 21)Have won two straight games, and will be looking for their first road win of the season this week against the Browns. 20 - Philadelphia Eagles 6-9 SU, 5-10 ATS (Last Week 19)Are the only NFC East team no longer in contention. Who would have expected that at the start of the 2005 season? 21 - Arizona Cardinals 5-10 SU, 5-10 ATS (Last Week 24)Have to play the Colts on Sunday, but at least they're coming off a 27-21 win on the weekend against the Eagles. 22 - Detroit Lions 5-10 SU, 8-7 ATS (Last Week 26)Kicked a couple of fourth-quarter field goals against the Saints to pull out the win, only their fifth so far this season. 23 - Buffalo Bills 5-10 SU, 7-8 ATS (Last Week 27)Kelly Holcomb led the team in its upset of the Bengals on Saturday, throwing for 308 yards and a touchdown. 24 - Cleveland Browns 5-10 SU, 7-8 ATS (Last Week 20)Not a great effort by Charlie Frye against the Steelers, and they sit in the AFC North division basement as a result. 25 - St. Louis Rams 5-10 SU, 4-11 ATS (Last Week 22)Need to beat the Cowboys to halt a four-game losing streak, and have any shot at finishing above the Cardinals. 26 - Tennessee Titans 4-11 SU, 6-9 ATS (Last Week 23)Steve McNair was ineffective against the Dolphins in their Week 16 loss, and eventually left with a pectoral injury. 27 - Oakland Raiders 4-11 SU, 5-10 ATS (Last Week 25)Kerry Collins went 17-of-41 for 178 yards passing, no TDs, and one interception versus the Broncos. Just terrible. 28 - Green Bay Packers 3-12 SU, 5-10 ATS (Last Week 28)If they can beat the Seahawks in Week 17 they'll end the season with four wins. Not a great year in Green Bay. 29 - New York Jets 3-12 SU, 5-10 ATS (Last Week 29)Went winless on the road in 2005, and haven't exactly been world-beaters at home either (3-4 after seven games). 30 - New Orleans Saints 3-12 SU, 5-9-1 ATS (Last Week 30)Looks like playing home games in San Antonio, Baton Rouge, and Giants Stadium didn't do much for the Saints. 31 - San Francisco 49ers 3-12 SU, 7-8 ATS (Last Week 32)Unfortunately for them, were matched up with a weak Rams team in Week 16, and actually pulled out a win . . . 32 - Houston Texans 2-13 SU, 7-8 ATS (Last Week 31). . . so the Texans have a one-game advantage in the loss column heading into their Week 17 matchup on Sunday
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Sports Betting

The BCS college bowl games are quickly approaching and it's time to lock and load! Let's take a look at a few things that may help prevent you from paying the bookie this year.
One should keep in mind that the odddsmakers know that a ton of sports bettors are going to be getting down on these games. That means inflated lines. Why you ask? Most people, especially inexperienced bettors, like to bet on favorites and overs in big nationally televised games. This is a great way to lose your bankroll as with the inflated lines your "playing uphill."
Now don't get me wrong, this doesn't mean that some favorites won't win. In fact they could very easily dominate the whole bowl season although it's unlikely. You can't approach a game as a must win situation. All forms of sports gambling must be done with the thought in mind that you are going to nail down a winning percentage of 52.4% or better to guarantee yourself a profit. Any favorite or underdog can win on any given day, hell, that's why they play the game!

12/30We like the Minnesota Golden Gophers to cover as a favorite against the Virginia Cavaliers. Minnesota has an unbelievable offense line lead by their star studded center and have only given up 3 sacks this year. Pair that up with a run game powered by Maroney and a Virginia team that hasn't exactly been knocking them dead or getting into the end zone much lately we're gonna lay the points here despite not being a fan of betting favorites in bowl games. If your going to bet this, get it quick as it may hit 7 or surpass that key number soon.
12/31In the LSU/Miami match up we like LSU and the points. The media is blowing the quarterback being out way out of proportion. How's this for news: Memo to Miami, you aren't gonna score much because this LSU defense is flat nasty. Their backup quarterback narrowly missed being the starter this year as well so it doesn't worry us a bit. Nothing like having the better defense and getting points in a bowl game! Take the +7 before it drops as we forecast that it will indeed move down before gametime.
12/31In the South Florida/NC State game we again like the dog here. Grab the points, the line is dropping like a rock. NC State is overrated and on the flip side South Florida may even be the better team.
12/31In another New Year's Eve game we like Tulsa getting points vs. Fresno State. Fresno State is a GREAT home team. Not the same story on the road. They have NO business laying more than a touchdown to Tulsa. Fresno State has been reeling with injuries this year otherwise this may be a no play. Don't be surprised if Tulsa wins straight up.
1/2Im a bit embarassed to say this but I'm blindly taking Iowa against Florida based on the fact that a sharp buddy of mine is on them. Im happy to see the line moving towards Iowa as well so he is definitely onto something. This friend is connected to people who bet very large amounts of money and are very sharp handicappers. I recommend that you get a little piece too before it goes to a pickem or worse.
1/4In a gutless attempt to have action on the big game (Rose Bowl) and liking USC but being too chicken to lay the points vs. a decent Texas team that you never know what their going to do, I have selected the moneyline as my play here along with tying it into some 7 point teasers to bring them to -1/2. No balls no glory but I'm trying to protect my bankroll here!
Call me nuts but I believe this USC team is one of the best college football teams ever to take the field. We all know that Reggie Bush is a stud but look a little further and you'll see a super strong offensive line. Line play wins games fellas. I look forward to seeing him visit the endzone a couple times and for USC to get away with a win. Ironically, I can't confidently say that they'll cover the 7. Gotta go with my gut here.
Hey, it's been a great year this year. Thanks for visiting the site, make sure to bookmark us and don't forget that we're not just here for football. We write and post information about ALL SPORTS all year long.
Best of luck in your action and don't forget to stop and take a breather to realize that "these are the good old days."
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Sports Betting

It's a no brainer that the Colts look tough but did they peak too early? Can the Chicago Bears muster up enough offense to compete vs. a team like the Colts? Will Seattle's receiving corps be healthy enough to lead them to the promise land? Will their underrated defense keep doing the job? These are all questions that once answered will determine the Super Bowl winner this year.
It doesn't take a rocket scientist to notice that the Colts have been stellar this year. Their not a lock to win the big one by any means though, especially since injuries took a toll on them late in the season including stud WR Marvin Harrison who has a broken hand.
The Bears have installed Rex Grossman as their new starter. We have to question this though. Kyle Orton may have been erratic at times however he did make some big plays and lead this team to a 10-4 record before Lovie Smith just "gave" Grossman the job. Pretty questionable move. Ever heard the old addage: "If it ain't broke don't fix it?" Well we have and we're still scratching our heads about this move.
Next we move on to Seattle...This team is rock solid. They are our darkhorse to win it all. With homefield advantage throughout, they are lookin' real good.
In summary, any one of these three teams has a real good shot. In our opinion all three are head and shoulders above the rest and should all be considered as potential Super Bowl winners this year.

Here was my preseason Picks:
In the AFC North you have the Cleveland Browns, Cincinnati Bengals, Pittsburgh Steelers and the Baltimore Ravens. In this division it is pretty much up in the air. Can Big Ben Roethlisberger repeat last year’s rookie season? Not a real great showing in pre-season this year but that's not a strong enough indicator. Can Cleveland ever do anything right? Are the Bengals worthy? They sure have some great offensive weapons in Rudy Johnson, Chad Johnson and Carson Palmer. Can the Raven’s D make the difference? With Ray Lewis, Neon Deion Sanders, Kyle Boller, Jamal Lewis and Todd Heap the only team that seems to stand up is the Baltimore Ravens and they should win this division.
In the AFC South there seems to be no stopping one team and they didn’t get any worse in the off season. But let’s look at the division with the Tennessee Titans, Houston Texans, Jacksonville Jaguars and the Indianapolis Colts. Each team here has shown signs of brilliance in the past few years but hands down the champion in this division is the Indianapolis Colts (despite having a mediocre defense.) They still have Peyton Manning, Marvin Harrison, Edgerrin James and Brandon Stokley and still have one of the most explosive offenses in the game. Adding to the mix is defensive minded coach Tony Dungy who is a major factor in improving the teams defense each and every year he's been in Indy.
Now let us look at the AFC East Miami Dolphins, Buffalo Bills, New York Jets and the reigning Superbowl champs the New England Patriots. Can Ricky Williams still run like the wind even though he has taken a year off to "find himself?" I would say no but the jury is still out on this one. The one thing that Miami needed was to improve there offensive line and even former LSU coach Nick Saban can not help this team. The Buffalo Bills can not survive with J.P. Losman as their starter. Their defense is tough but the offense may be a nightmare.. On to the N.Y. Jets, Chad Pennington and the Jets have a shot at the wild card. Last but definently not least, the 3 time world champion New England Patriots. They have lost some defense and their offensive coordinator but they haven’t lost their determination which is "no one comes before the team." They still have Tom Brady and Corey Dillon and a firey goal to get back to the Superbowl. They will win their division.
In the AFC we are to the West Division including the Oakland Raiders, Denver Broncos, San Diego Chargers and Kansas City Chiefs. Oakland went out and got Randy Moss and is showing signs of life but it won't be enough. Randy's off field and sideline antics cross cancel the briliance he shows on the field so we make him a non factor. Dude really needs to keep his mouth shut. His latest public tirade included letting us all know that he smokes dope sometimes during the year. Too bad he can't talk about winning games rather than smoking dope, 'nough said.
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Denver has a running game just like every year but can Jake “the snake� Plummer lead them to the promise land? His past has been checkered with inconsistency however he's coming into the prime of his career and we may see huge numbers, especially with the good group of receivers he has. We REALLY like Ashley Lelie. The Chargers have Drew Brees and LaDainian Tomlinson but they still have no field goal kicker and they may have a good year and make the wild card if they can follow up on a season in which we feel they over achieved.. Then we have the Kansas City Chiefs who we should see more of the same from, great on offense, questionable on defense but good enough to potentially make the playoffs. A lot will hinge on the legs of stud RB Priest Holmes.
So we have the Ravens, Colts, Patriots, Chiefs, Jets and the Broncos. In the AFC title game I believe it will be the same as the last year’s title game as no team can handle the team play of New England or the high octane offense of the Colts. The road to the Superbowl runs thru Foxboro yet again and with manning 0-7 there one would think that he just can’t win there. However this is the year for manning to secure his legacy and finally make it to the big dance they will beat the Patriots 27- 20 in the bitter snow and cold.
Now let us take a look at the NFC and who the Patriots will be facing for Superbowl XL. In the NFC North we have Minnesota Vikings, Green Bay Packers, Detroit Lions and the Chicago Bears. With the Bears, they have no quarterback yet again (Rex Grossman went down with an injury again) and even though their defense is great with Brian Urlacher he may not be enough to give them a .500 record. The Detroit Lions have all the tools now and if Joey Harrington can do his job they will make the wildcard. He has all the weapons you could need in Roy Williams, Charles Rogers, Marcus Pollard, and Kevin Jones. I guess the ball is in Joey’s court. If he doesn't "bring it" by week 4 or so expect coach Mariucci to end the "Harrington experiment" and give the backup a shot.
Green Bay is a whole problem by itself even though they have Brett Favre, Ahman Green, Bubba Franks, Javon Walker and Donald Driver. The team really has no defense and you just can’t win with out that fellas. Last but not least, we have the Minnesota Vikings with Daunte Culpepper, Nate Burleson, Michael Bennett and minus the troublesome Randy Moss. Losing Moss hurt athletically but intellectually they have now become a better team with a more cohesive lineup. They will win there division easily.
In the NFC South we have the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, New Orleans Saints, Carolina Panthers and the Atlanta Falcons. Let us look at the Buc’s first and on that note there is not much to say except that Cadillac Williams and Brian Greise will help this team, just not enough this year. Then there are the "Aints." Ya know if Aaron Brooks were to get canned and their third string QB Kliff Kingsbury was to replace him it would probably create better results. The Saints have Joe Horn, Donte' Stallworth, Deuce McAllister and somewhat of a defense, the only thing that they are missing is a real QB. One day they'll figure it out and get somebody else in there, or will they?
The Carolina Panthers with DeShaun Foster, Steve Smith, the massive Julius Peppers and Jake Delhomme need only to stay healthy and they just very well may make it back to the division finals but they will need to get there as a wildcard. Last but not least our division winner... the Atlanta Falcons. With Michael Vick, Alge Crumpler, T.J. Duckett and Warrick Dunn there is no stopping them to getting back to winning their division. Vick will of course need to stay healthy which we believe he will as the plan is to have him run less and become more of a pocket passer. The guy could get away with it in his college days and in the college game but NFL defenses are simply too big and fast for his brittle frame. Nonetheless, the Falcons appear to be the winner here.
In the NFC East we have the reigning NFC Champion Philadelphia Eagles, Dallas Cowboys, Washington Redskins and N.Y. Giants. With the Giants, Eli Manning needs another year or two. But don’t give up, good times are coming Giants fans. On to the Redskins with a BETTER than ever Brunell at QB. This offense features Clinton Portis, David Patten and Santana Moss. You would think that the Redskins stand a chance but even with Joe Gibbs they don’t this year. Better luck next year guys.
Well coach Parcel’s finally did it. He might have the right team to make Jerry Jones happy and go back to the Super Bowl. Getting Drew Bledsoe into an offense featuring Julius Jones, Jason Witten, Keyshawn Johnson and Terry Glenn just may be the answer if the D can hold up. Then there are the Eagles. Can they hold it together with all the media and B.S. as well as there internal struggle with Terrell Owens/Donovan McNabb. If the team continues to have internal turmoil they could implode by mid season and look "simply average." Even with a healthy Brian Westbrook they will not win their division this year, that honor will go to the Dallas Cowboys.
Now we move on to the NFC West with the San Francisco 49ers, Arizona Cardinals, St. Louis Rams and Seattle Seahawks. The 49ers are working on rebuilding for the what, 5th year? But they really think that they have the answer NOW with Rookie QB Alex Smith who they will sit for opening day. The days of Joe Montana are long gone here as even if Smith had the skills, their offensive line is nothing better than average and he's going to be thrown around like a ragdoll by opposing defenses, especially with no run game to respect.
The Arizona Cardinals look good this year with players Anquan Boldin, Larry Fitzgerald, J.J. Arrington and what should be a "better" Kurt Warner. Most people say that Warner is done, guess again guys. On to St. Louis and the Rams Torry Holt, Isaac Bruce, Marc Bulger, Steven Jackson and his now back up Marshall Faulk. Can the Rams go the distance? Time will tell, but we don't think so. Not this yr. Last we have the Seattle Seahawks. Coach Holmgren has really done a good job at assembling this team that appears to have everything but star wide receivers. Darrell Jackson is probably going to shine though this year in the prime of his careeer and Bobby Engram is a great possession receive. We like this team as a darkhorse to win a bunch of games with a more improved QB Matt Hasselback however we see the Arizona Cardinals winning the division. Dennis Green's hard work will prove to finally pay off.
Ok, let's recap my picks:The Vikings, Falcons, Cowboys, Cardinals, Panthers, and the Eagles. The Falcons play the Cowboys and the D is too much for Vick to overcome and the Cowboys go back to the Superbowl with a final score of 27-21 with Dallas coming out on the victorious end. Then Dallas meets Manning’s Colts at Superbowl XL with the Cowboys not being able to handle the high octane offense and Peyton and company finally get their just reward stifling all the doubting Thomas’s of the Football World. Final score 37–14 Colts
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Sports Betting

College Basketball Handicapping

I guess we truly know which college basketball team is No. 1 now. Duke silenced all the naysayers by pummeling former No. 2 Texas 97-66 last week. As a result, the Longhorns bottomed out at No. 6, while Connecticut is the new challenger for the top spot at No. 2. Overall, it was a week of big losses and menial gains. The biggest gainers moved up four spots, a feat that was accomplished by five different teams. Out of this group of five, George Washington, Maryland, North Carolina and N.C. State all seem prepared to hold steady or continue moving up next week, while Wake Forest is set for a fall after an early upset loss this week. Last week's biggest loser was Iowa. The slumping Hawkeyes suffered two intra-state upsets and plummeted 10 spots. Kentucky and Boston College didn't fare much better as the Wildcats dropped eight positions and the Eagles got shot down seven spots. Only one new school found its way into the rankings this week. Houston probably deserved a spot last week after posting a pair of big upsets, but a place was finally cleared for them this week. Falling out of the mix was former No. 22 Alabama. The Crimson Tide went out after a pair of upset losses to Notre Dame and Temple last week. Here's a closer look at the rest of the Top 25 and their opponents this week: 1. Duke (1) 9-0 - The Blue Devils proved they're the best in the nation last week by destroying former No. 2 Texas 97-66 after getting past Pennsylvania 72-59 earlier in the week. Duke has a very light week with only one game versus 4-2 Valparaiso this weekend. 2. Connecticut (3) 7-0 - The Huskies moved into the No. 2 slot after ripping Massachusetts 78-60 last week. Connecticut only has one game this week, against pushovers 2-7 New Hampshire on Sunday. 3. Villanova (4) 7-0 - The Wildcats dropped Longwood, 90-77, and Pennsylvania, 62-55 last week to enter the Top 3. Villanova gets a breather this week with their next game not scheduled until December 22 versus 5-0 La Salle. 4. Louisville (5) 6-0 - The Cardinals' offense exploded in a 111-85 win over Akron last week to get them into the No. 4 position. Louisville got this week started early with a 78-54 win over Chicago St., but they should have a much bigger test this weekend against struggling No. 23 Kentucky. 5. Memphis (7) 7-1 - The Tigers found their way into the Top 5 after knocking off Providence 97-89 last week. Memphis heads to 5-2 Mississippi this weekend. The Tigers lead all ranked teams averaging 89.3 points scored per game. 6. Texas (2) 8-1 - The Longhorns took a four-spot hit in the rankings after an embarrassing 97-66 loss to Duke in front of the entire nation. Texas will get a chance to unleash its frustration on 5-0 Tennessee this weekend. The Longhorns might be a little short-staffed this week with starting center Brad Buckman questionable with an ankle injury and forward Dion Dowell doubtful, also with ankle troubles. 7. Florida (10) 9-0 - The Gators continued their climb up the rankings last week by trashing Providence 87-77 and Bethune-Cookman 88-58. Florida hosts 1-4 Jacksonville this weekend. The Gators have one of the best ATS records in the rankings at 6-1. 8. Oklahoma (8) 5-1 - The Sooners were stuck at No. 8 despite getting past Coppin State 57-47. Oklahoma takes on 1-6 Southern this weekend. 9. Illinois (11) 10-0 - The Fighting Illini moved closer to regaining their old No. 1 ranking from last season after defeating Georgetown 58-48 and hammering Oregon 89-59. Illinois plays host to 0-7 Coppin State this weekend. 10. Gonzaga (9) 6-2 - The Bulldogs defeated Washington State 67-53 and slipped past Oklahoma State 64-62 last week, but still lost a spot in the rankings. Gonzaga will need a win versus 3-3 Virginia if they hope to get it back. The Bulldogs got some bad news this week when it was revealed that senior guard Errol Knight, who has already missed considerable time this season with a knee injury, will be out at least another two weeks. 11. Washington (13) 8-0 - The Huskies inched closer to the Top 10 by defeating New Mexico 81-71 last week. Washington shouldn't have much trouble snaring a win this week versus 4-3 Eastern Washington. 12. Michigan State (14) 7-2 - The Spartans took down Boston College 77-70 and thumped Wichita State 83-64 last week. Michigan State has a pair of games versus 2-4 Cleveland State and 3-4 Florida International this week. 13. Boston College (6) 6-2 - The Eagles plummeted seven spots down the rankings after road losses to Michigan State, 77-70, and Maryland, 73-71 last week. Boston College will try to get back on track at home this week versus 2-7 Texas Southern. 14. UCLA (16) 7-1 - The Bruins defeated Nevada 67-56 last week to move up a pair in the rankings. UCLA heads east to 7-0 Michigan this weekend. The Bruins rank last in scoring among ranked teams, averaging only 67.4 points per game. 15. George Washington (19) 7-0 - The Colonials rocked Florida International, 70-45, and Morgan State, 102-75 last week to gain entry into the Top 15. George Washington should be able remain undefeated this weekend versus 2-7 MD Eastern Shore. 16. Wake Forest (20) 7-2 - The Demon Deacons took a four-spot jump despite having last week off. It looks like Wake Forest will be headed back down the rankings next week after they were upset by DePaul 84-81 earlier this week on Tuesday. They also play 2-4 Princeton this weekend, desperately needing a win to avoid falling out of the rankings altogether. 17. Maryland (21) 7-2 - The Terrapins whipped Western Carolina 87-57 and upset former No. 6 Boston College 73-71 last week to move up four positions. Maryland doesn't take to the court this week with their next game scheduled on December 23 versus 3-6 American. 18. Indiana (18) 5-2 - The Hoosiers had an up-and-down week after losing to Indiana State 72-67, followed by a 79-53 win over Kentucky. Indiana gets the week off to prepare for 5-4 Charlotte on December 19. 19. North Carolina (23) 5-1 - The Tar Heels continued their journey back to the top of the rankings last week by dispensing with Saint Louis 75-63. North Carolina gets 4-3 Santa Clara at home this week. 20. Nevada (17) 7-1 - The Wolf Pack defeated UC Davis 78-51 last week, but followed that up with a 67-56 loss to UCLA to fall three spots in the rankings. Nevada had their only game of the week early on Tuesday when they beat up on Seattle Pacific 83-57. They don't take to the court again until December 21 versus 7-1 Georgia. 21. N.C. State (25) 6-1 - The Wolfpack slammed Appalachian State 92-68 last week to move out of the Top 25 basement. N.C. State hosts both 1-4 N.C. Asheville and 6-3 Miami (FL) this week. The Wolfpack are the best defensive team in the rankings, allowing only 56.1 points per game. 22. Iowa (12) 7-3 - The Hawkeyes lost back-to-back games versus Northern Iowa, 67-63 and Iowa State, 72-60 last week to drop a big 10 spots in the rankings. Iowa has to post a win versus 4-2 Arizona State or they won't be around in next week's rankings. If the Hawkeyes do turn things around they'll have to do it without starting guard Jeff Horner. The senior is out anywhere from two to five weeks with a knee injury. 23. Kentucky (15) 6-3 - The Wildcats mauled Georgia State 73-46 last week, but fell to Indiana 79-53 to lose eight spots in the rankings. Kentucky gets an even tougher test this weekend against No. 4 Louisville. 24. Arizona (24) 4-3 - The Wildcats were able to stick around in the rankings by defeating Northern Arizona, 75-66, and St. Mary's, 73-61 last week. Arizona visits 5-2 Utah this weekend. The Wildcats have been a disaster for bettors so far this season with a 2-5 record ATS. 25. Houston (NR) 4-1 - The Cougars posted their third straight win last week 68-46 over Sam Houston State to move into the Top 25 cellar. Houston takes on 5-1 South Alabama in their first ranked week. The Cougars have been a great option for upset bettors so far this year, with two big upset wins over LSU and Arizona already. Out: Alabama (22)
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NBA Handicapping
NBA Power Rankings Week 8An ugly, four-game losing streak has caused the Minnesota Timberwolves to suffer the biggest fall in the Power Rankings this week, from the No. 4 spot all the way down to No. 15 on the list. Other than that tumble, however, much of the top positions in the rankings stay the same this week. The Detroit Pistons continue to be our No. 1 team, followed by the No. 2 San Antonio Spurs and the No. 3 Dallas Mavericks. Jumping five spots from No. 9 to No. 4 are the Indiana Pacers, who are overshadowed by the Pistons in the Central Division but have the second-best record in the Eastern Conference. And taking up spot No. 5 on this week's list yet again are the Memphis Grizzlies, who managed to hold off challenges from the Los Angeles Clippers and the Phoenix Suns for that position. The Toronto Raptors reclaim spot No. 30 this week, thanks in equal part to their own inept play and the surprising surge of the Atlanta Hawks. In fact, the Hawks move all the way from No. 30 to No. 27 on this week's list after picking up three wins in the past seven days. Atlanta jumps over both the No. 28 New York Knicks (who have lost six games in a row) and the No. 29 Charlotte Bobcats (who were trounced twice last week) in the process. Rounding out this week's bottom five are the turbulent Portland Trail Blazers, who occupy spot No. 26. Here is the Week 8 edition of the NBA Power Rankings. 01 - Detroit Pistons (Last Week 01)Won 103-78 versus the Bobcats on Saturday, with Charlotte only managing to score 26 points in the first half. 02 - San Antonio Spurs (Last Week 02)Lost in overtime to the Clippers on Tuesday, but bounced back with slim wins over the Timberwolves and Kings. 03 - Dallas Mavericks (Last Week 03)Won a big matchup with the Suns on Wednesday night, with Dirk Nowitzki scoring 29 in the 102-96 home win. 04 - Indiana Pacers (Last Week 09)The Pacers seem to be doing fine without the services of Ron Artest, but they need to settle that situation soon. 05 - Memphis Grizzlies (Last Week 05)Shane Battier played through a finger injury on Saturday, scoring 13 points in the Grizzlies' win over the Suns. 06 - Los Angeles Clippers (Last Week 06)Corey Maggette could be back in the lineup Tuesday night; he's missed the past couple of weeks with a foot injury. 07 - Phoenix Suns (Last Week 07)Which will come first, a slump by the Clippers or a surge by the Suns? Or is Phoenix not going to win the division? 08 - Golden State Warriors (Last Week 08)Hanging tough in the Pacific Division, but they're not the only team in that division that's putting up lots of wins. 09 - Miami Heat (Last Week 11)The loss to the Cavs was Pat Riley's first as head coach of the Heat this season. Shaq was limited to 10 points. 10 - Milwaukee Bucks (Last Week 10)Beat both the Knicks and the Celtics last week, but came up short in games against both the Heat and the Jazz. 11 - Cleveland Cavaliers (Last Week 12)LeBron sunk the Heat almost by himself on Saturday, scoring 41 points and adding 10 assists in the big victory. 12 - Los Angeles Lakers (Last Week 15)Took care of the Mavericks, Grizzlies, and Wizards last week to move their record a healthy distance above .500. 13 - Philadelphia 76ers (Last Week 16)Allen Iverson hurt his thumb against the Heat on Friday, but it wasn't bad enough to keep him out of Sunday's game. 14 - Chicago Bulls (Last Week 14)Lost big to the Pistons on Friday night, but bounced back with a 118-86 win over the Celtics in a Saturday matchup. 15 - Minnesota Timberwolves (Last Week 04)Mediocre records on the road and within the Western Conference has kept them from joining the league's elite. 16 - New Jersey Nets (Last Week 20)Playing just well enough to stay close to the 76ers in the Atlantic Division, but not well enough to climb the ladder. 17 - Denver Nuggets (Last Week 13)With the Timberwolves cooling off, a slump by the Nuggets at the same time has kept them out of the division lead. 18 - Utah Jazz (Last Week 21)Andrei Kirilenko left Saturday's game versus the Bucks with a back injury, but is expected back in the lineup Tuesday. 19 - New Orleans Hornets (Last Week 25)Is Chris Paul's Rookie of the Year campaign enough the keep the Hornets fans in Oklahoma City interested? 20 - Seattle Supersonics (Last Week 17)Started last week with losses to both the Warriors and Rockets, but then picked up a win over the Blazers on Friday. 21 - Houston Rockets (Last Week 23)Won back-to-back against the Warriors and SuperSonics last week, but then fell 89-81 to the Clippers on Saturday. 22 - Sacramento Kings (Last Week 18)Shareef Adbur-Rahim scored a season-high 25 points against the Spurs on Saturday, but the Kings still lost. 23 - Orlando Magic (Last Week 19)Grant Hill scored 28 points in just his second game back on the court on Friday, a Magic loss to the Mavericks. 24 - Boston Celtics (Last Week 22)Somehow held the Pacers to only 71 points on Wednesday, but then gave up 100 and 118 to the Bucks and Bulls. 25 - Washington Wizards (Last Week 24)Gilbert Arenas played through a sore back on Friday, and he picked up 29 points in his return to the Wizards' lineup. 26 - Portland Trail Blazers (Last Week 26)Sebastian Telfair's thumb injury could keep him out indefinitely, and Ruben Patterson could soon be on the move. 27 - Atlanta Hawks (Last Week 30)Beat the Cavs, the Knicks, and the Nuggets last week, so maybe they will get to double-digit wins this year after all. 28 - New York Knicks (Last Week 27)The Knicks' game results from last week: Lost on Monday, lost on Wednesday, lost on Friday, lost on Saturday. 29 - Charlotte Bobcats (Last Week 29)Not only were they trounced by the Pistons last week, but they were also beaten pretty badly by the Nuggets. 30 - Toronto Raptors (Last Week 28)Back in the cellar again, and Jose Calderon missed Sunday's game versus the 76ers after suffering a bruised heel.
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Sports Betting

NFL BEST CHALK BETS
New England Patriots vs. New York JetsPatriots -5.5 Well if it wasn't official before it is now. The New England Patriots are officially back in the Superbowl picture as their defensive, running and injury situations all seem to have improved dramatically over the past few weeks. They have now won 5 of 6 and go into New York in front of the national audience to face the New York Jets whom have been terrible for most of the year. The Patriots are 6-1 ATS the past 7 meetings and their offence, particularly their passing game should take advantage of the 28th ranked defense the Jets put on the field that allows a generous 256 yards per game. The Patriots meanwhile have allowed just 3.3 points per game and 28 yards rushing to go along with 133 passing yards per game. The Jets offence while it has shown a select few bright spots despite all the injuries will have a hard time getting anything against a Patriots defense that finally seems back in synch. Although the Jets have been able to keep two games close in back to back weeks it is difficult to imagine them being able to do it a third time especially against the Patriots. The Patriots won the first meeting by a score of 13-3 but were really beaten much worse as they were out gained by 237 yards. Look for the positive play of the Patriots to continue as they show little mercy against the Jets and you should have no fear of coach Billichek benching starters later in the game as most of the Patriots back up fit well into the game plan and quite frankly are better than anything the Jets can put out there. New England should easily win this by double digits.
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