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Golfers to Bet - Congressional

Tournament: Quicken Loans National
Date: Thursday, June 23rd
Venue: Congressional Country Club (Blue)
Location: Bethesda, MD

The TOUR heads to Bethesda for the Quicken Loans National after an eventful U.S. Open this past weekend.

Dustin Johnson was the story of that tournament, as he finally broke through and won his first major. It was quite the redemption for Johnson, who blew last year’s tournament with a three-putt on the 18th hole.

Now the golfers will shift their attention to this week’s event and Tony Merritt was the winner here a year ago. He shot an 18-under to defeat Rickie Fowler by three strokes and both guys will be in this year’s field.

Joining them will be guys like Jim Furyk, Patrick Reed, Marc Leishman and Brendan Steele. Most of the world’s top golfers will be using this week to rest.

With that out of the way, let’s now take a look at who might be coming away victorious on the 7,569-yard course on Sunday:

Golfers to Bet

Patrick Reed (18/1) - Reed has not yet won a tournament this season, but he has been all over the top of the leaderboard and this could be his best chance to win yet. Reed has three second place finishes on the season and six other top-10 finishes as well. He’ll now head to Bethesda and get to face a field that is void of the top golfers on the TOUR. He is already one of the most talented golfers himself, so it’s just a matter of him keeping it together and finding a way to stay poised throughout the weekend. He’s worth putting a few units on at 18/1 though.

Justin Thomas (27/1) - Like Reed, Thomas is yet another player with all of the talent in the world. He performed admirably at the U.S. Open last week, finishing tied for 32nd and he should have his sights set on winning this tournament. Thomas finished tied for third at THE PLAYERS and has a golden opportunity to win his second tournament of the year, as he won the CIMB Classic in early November. The key for Thomas will be accuracy with the irons. If he can hit his approach shots well then he’s a tremendous value at 27/1 and is worth putting a unit or two on for the weekend.

Keegan Bradley (70/1) - Bradley has had one of his worst seasons as a pro in 2016, but he is still a very talented golfer and this could be an opportunity for him to turn his season around and start to build some confidence. Bradley finished nine-over at the U.S. Open, but he was 12-under and tied for eighth place at the Memorial Tournament just two weeks before. If he can channel that type of play then he will certainly be a threat to win this one. The field for this event just might be weaker than any we’ve seen thus far and it’s a golden opportunity for Bradley to pick up a win. He’s worth putting a unit or so on at 70/1.

Tony Merritt (130/1) - Merritt won this event a year ago and is still receiving some absurd odds at 130/1. Not only did he win this event in 2015, but he also happened to have set a tournament record with his 18-under score and 266 aggregate. The golfers won’t be playing on the same course that they did a year ago, but he might be able to lock in and find his game in this one. It also doesn’t hurt that Merritt has had a decent season thus far in 2016. He finished tied for 11th at the Northern Trust Open, tied for third at the Arnold Palmer Invitational and tied for 17th at the Dean & DeLuca Invitational. He’ll be looking to win his first title of the year on Sunday, but it always helps to be returning as the top dog.

Odds to win Quicken Loans National -

Rickie Fowler 14/1
Jim Furyk 18/1
Patrick Reed 18/1
Marc Leishman 25/1
Brendan Steele 27/1
Justin Thomas 27/1
Byeong Hun An 30/1
Charley Hoffman 30/1
Bryson Dechambeau 33/1
Gary Woodland 33/1
Kevin Chappell 33/1
Bill Haas 35/1
Ryan Palmer 35/1
Russell Henley 40/1
Tony Finau 45/1
Webb Simpson 45/1
Chris Kirk 50/1
Daniel Summerhays 50/1
Jamie Lovemark 50/1
Roberto Castro 50/1
Jason Kokrak 55/1
Robert Garrigus 55/1
Charles Howell III 60/1
Francesco Molinari 65/1
Kevin Streelman 65/1
David Hearn 70/1
Jon Rahm 70/1
Keegan Bradley 70/1
Kyle Reifers 70/1
Seung-Yul Noh 70/1
Adam Hadwin 75/1
John Senden 75/1
Shawn Stefani 75/1
Harold Varner III 80/1
Matt Jones 80/1
Patrick Rodgers 85/1
Hudson Swafford 90/1
Jon Curran 90/1
Patton Kizzire 90/1
Wesley Bryan 90/1
Chez Reavie 100/1
Ricky Barnes 100/1
Ben Martin 110/1
Cameron Tringale 110/1
James Hahn 110/1
Jordan Niebrugge 110/1
Lucas Glover 110/1
Martin Piller 110/1
Robert Streb 110/1
Scott Stallings 110/1
Anirban Lahiri 120/1
Ben Crane 120/1
Bud Cauley 120/1
Chris Stroud 120/1
K.J. Choi 120/1
Luke Guthrie 120/1
Smylie Kaufman 120/1
Spencer Levin 120/1
Tom Hoge 120/1
Sung Kang 125/1
Brian Harman 130/1
Jhonattan Vegas 130/1
John Huh 130/1
Si Woo Kim 130/1
Tim Wilkinson 130/1
Troy Merritt 130/1
Brett Stegmaier 140/1
Morgan Hoffmann 140/1
Billy Hurley III 150/1
Fabian Gomez 150/1
Luke List 150/1
Zac Blair 150/1
Aaron Baddeley 180/1
Andrew Loupe 180/1
Chad Collins 180/1
Derek Fathauer 180/1
Michael Thompson 180/1
Nick Taylor 180/1
Will Wilcox 180/1
Brian Stuard 190/1
Bronson Burgoon 190/1
Ernie Els 190/1
Martin Laird 190/1
Michael Kim 200/1
Steve Wheatcroft 200/1
Vijay Singh 200/1
Brendon de Jonge 230/1
Camilo Villegas 230/1
George McNeill 230/1
Jason Gore 230/1
Jim Herman 230/1
Kyle Stanley 230/1
Scott Pinckney 230/1
Stuart Appleby 230/1
Tyrone Van Aswegen 230/1
Vaughn Taylor 230/1
Will MacKenzie 230/1
Rory Sabbatini 240/1
Blayne Barber 250/1
Chesson Hadley 250/1
Greg Owen 250/1
Jeff Overton 250/1
Mark Hubbard 250/1
Rod Pampling 250/1
Steve Marino 250/1
Tyler Aldridge 250/1
Whee Kim 250/1
Carlos Ortiz 300/1
Hiroshi Iwata 300/1
Peter Malnati 300/1
Rob Oppenheim 300/1
Davis Love III 350/1
Carl Pettersson 400/1
Andres Gonzales 450/1
Arjun Atwal 450/1
Erik Compton 450/1

Odds Subject to Change

10 Players to Watch: Quicken Loans National
By Tom LaMarre, The Sports Xchange

1. Rickie Fowler, United States -- The highest-ranked player in the field this week at No. 6 in the world, Fowler has struggled with three consecutive missed cuts in the Players, the Memorial and the U.S. Open. He's too good for this to continue and could be ready to snap out of it at Congressional. Last year in the Quicken Loans National, he posted four rounds in the 60s and finished second, three shots behind winner John Merrick at Robert Trent Jones Golf Club in Virginia. He also tied for 21st in 2013 at Congressional and tied for 13th in 2011 at Aronimink. Before his recent slump, Rickie posted six top-10 results this season, including a playoff loss to Hideki Matsuyama of Japan in the Waste Management Phoenix Open.

2. Patrick Reed, United States -- Although Reed was another one of the top players who missed the cut in the U.S. Open at Oakmont, he leads the PGA Tour with nine finishes in the top-10 this season, including seconds in the Hyundai Tournament of Champions and the Valero Texas Open. He is making his third start in the Quicken Loans National. Two years ago, he held the 54-hole lead before closing with a 77 at Congressional to slide to a tie for 11th. Reed is the fifth and odd-man-out for the U.S. Olympic team right now and needs a victory to close the gap on Jordan Spieth, Dustin Johnson, Bubba Watson and Rickie Fowler if he wants to land on the team that goes to Rio in August.

3. Marc Leishman, Australia -- The third-best Aussie in the world behind Jason Day and Adam Scott, Leishman finished in a tie for 18th in the U.S. Open at Oakmont, dragged down only by a 77 in the third round. It was his third straight finish in the top 20, as he also tied for 13th in the Dean & DeLuca Invitational and tied for 11th in the Memorial Tournament. Leishman, whose only victory on the PGA Tour came in the 2012 Travelers Championship, held the 36-hole lead in the 2014 Quicken Loans National at Congressional after a 66 but played the weekend in 73-74 and slid to a tie for eighth. He also tied for seventh in 2010, closing with 67-68, when the tournament was played at Aronimink in Pennsylvania.

4. Jim Furyk, United States -- The 46-year-old Furyk showed that his game is coming around in his fifth tournament back from left wrist surgery when he closed with a 66 last week to tie for second in the U.S. Open before his home state (Pennsylvania) fans at Oakmont. That was his first top-10 result since a tie for fourth in the Deutsche Bank Championship last September during the FedEx Cup playoffs, a week before he went out because of the injury in the BMW Championship. Furyk, who claimed his 17th PGA Tour victory last year in the RBC Heritage, tied for third the first two years of what is now the Quicken Loans National and tied for seventh in the third playing of the event, all at Congressional, but has not cracked the top 30 in four appearances since.

5. Charley Hoffman, United States -- Making his ninth start in the Quicken Loans National, Hoffman finally finished in the top 10 in the tournament two years ago at Congressional when he shot 68-69 during the weekend to tie for third, one stroke out of the playoff in which Justin Rose of England beat Shawn Stefani. That was his best result in the tournament since he tied for 19th in 2007, its first year, when he shot 69-67 in the middle rounds. Hoffman captured the Valero Texas Open in April for his fourth victory on the PGA Tour during a stretch in which he finished in the top 20 in four of five tournaments. However, he missed the cut in the Players and tied for 37th in the U.S. Open, so he's trying to find that earlier form this week.

6. Byeong Hun An, South Korea -- Trying to turn his Temporary Special Membership on the PGA Tour into full-time playing privileges, An will tee it up in the Quicken Loans National for the first time this week. The youngest U.S. Amateur champion at 17 when he won in 2009, he nearly earned a two-year exemption on the PGA Tour earlier this year when he lost in a playoff to Brian Stuard at the Zurich Classic of New Orleans. An, who has won three times as a pro including the 2015 BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth on the European Tour, posted a solid tie for 23rd in the U.S. Open at Oakmont after tying for 11th in the Memorial Tournament. He also tied for ninth earlier this season in the WGC-Dell Match Play.

7. Brendan Steele, United States -- Steele's tie for 15th in the U.S. Open at Oakmont was his fourth top-20 result in his last five starts, also including a tie for 13th in the Valero Texas Open, a tie for 14th in the Wells Fargo Championship and a tie for 20th in the Memorial Tournament. His best result this season was a tie for third in the WGC-HSBC Champions, coming close to adding that to his only PGA Tour victory in the 2011 Valero Texas Open. Steele is making his fifth start in the AT&T National and he posted his best result in Tiger Woods' tournament two years ago at Congressional, when he bounced back from an opening 74 with a second-round 66 and eventually finished in a tie for fifth.

8. Kevin Chappell, United States -- Still trying to break through for his first victory on the PGA Tour after finishing second three times this season and five times in his career, Chappell will make his sixth start in the Quicken Loans National. His best result was a tie for 18th last year at Robert Trent Jones Golf Club in Virginia, where he tied for the 54-hole lead with eventual winner Troy Merritt by shooting 64-68-67 before closing with a 77. Chappell is 10th in the FedEx Cup point standings this season thanks to ties for second in the Players Championship, the Arnold Palmer Invitational and the RSM Classic. His only pro victory came in the 2010 Fresh Express Classic at TPC Stonebrae on what is now the Web.com Tour.

9. Bill Haas, United States -- One of Haas' six PGA Tour victories came in what was then the AT&T National in 2013 at Congressional, where he opened with a 70 before playing the last three rounds in 68-68-66 to win by three strokes over Roberto Castro. Last year, when the tournament was played at Robert Trent Jones Golf Club in Virginia, he shot 64 in round three en route to a tie for fourth. Haas came close to adding to his victory total earlier this year when he shot 67-67 in the middle rounds of the Valspar Championship but couldn't hold the 54-hole lead, closing with a 72 and eventually losing to Charl Schwartzel of South Africa on the first playoff hole. That was one of his four finishes in the top 10 and seven in the top 25 this season.

10. Jon Rahm, Spain -- After tying for 23rd to finish as low amateur in the U.S. Open last week at Oakmont in his first major, Rahm will make his pro debut this week in the Quicken Loans National. The 21-year-old, who was No. 1 in Golfweek's Men's College and Men's Amateur rankings, had 11 victories in his career at Arizona State, second only to Phil Mickelson's 16. Rahm, who captured the 2014 World Amateur Championship and won the Spanish Amateur Championship the last two years, received the Ben Hogan Award as the best college golfer in the nation the last two years. He has played in five PGA Tour events in the last two seasons, with his best result a tie for fifth in the 2015 Waste Management Phoenix Open, and he also tied for 10th in the OHL Classic at Mayakoba earlier this season.

PGA Tour Picks: Quicken Loans National Odds and Expert Betting Predictions
by Alan Matthews

I predicted my fifth winner of the season at last week's U.S. Open at storied Oakmont outside Pittsburgh, but I'm not sure I've ever been so irritated watching a golf event.

OK, I had to hedge a bit last week as I believed that either American Dustin Johnson or Aussie Jason Day was going to win the tournament. So I took a prop of those two, Rory McIlroy and Justin Spieth at +130 against the field (-170). And Johnson got that major championship monkey off his back, a year after blowing the U.S. Open at Chambers Bay, by shooting 4-under 276 to win by three shots. I didn't expect anyone to finish under par at the incredibly-tough Oakmont, and only four guys did. Heavy rains on Thursday, which also created a huge backlog, helped make the course play a bit easier.

The irritation came from the USGA on Sunday. Johnson was standing over a 6-foot par putt on the fifth green and the ball suddenly moved a tiny bit backward when DJ went to address the ball. Johnson quickly stepped away and informed a rules official that the ball had moved. But Johnson was told by officials that there would be no penalty, and he made the putt. Then, inexplicably, a USGA official told Johnson on the 12th tee that the matter was in fact still under review. The rest of the field was told as well. Can you imagine trying to win your first major title not knowing if you were going to have a penalty assessed on you afterward?

The USGA looked utterly foolish and was ripped heavily on social media by other players in the field. The USGA did penalize Johnson a stroke -- he was penalized under Rule 18-2 (Ball Moving after Address); a one-stroke penalty is applied if a player's actions are deemed to be the likely cause of his ball's movement -- and said its ruling was correct on Monday but apologized for its ambiguity. Thankfully it didn't end up mattering -- how wild would it have been if Johnson then had to go to an 18-hole playoff? Remember, at the 2010 PGA Championship it looked like Johnson might win on Sunday but was assessed a controversial two-stroke penalty for grounding his club in what was deemed a bunker. That knocked him out of a playoff won by Martin Kaymer over Bubba Watson.

I also hit on Johnson at +600 as the top American, at +125 for a Top 10 and +110 over Spieth (-140). I didn't like Spieth at all last week and he was T37. Also hit on Day at -140 for a Top 10 and at -125 over McIlroy (-105). Rory missed the cut. So did Phil Mickelson, who I had for a Top 10.

This week the Tour heads to Congressional Country Club -- host of the 1964, 2007 and 2011 U.S. Opens -- for the Quicken Loans National. Because it's the week after a grueling major, the field is watered down. I really thought Tiger Woods would play here as he's the host of his tournament, but he's still not ready and I no longer expect to see him the rest of this season. Woods played pretty well here last year, finishing T18 at 8-under 276. This is the fourth time since the event's start in 2007 that injuries have kept him from playing it. Rickie Fowler is the biggest name in this year's field.

The defending champion is Troy Merritt, but at a different course due to renovations at Congressional (Robert Trent Jones Golf Club in Virginia). He shot a 4-under 67 on Sunday to close at 18-under 266 and his first career victory in 96 starts. Merritt really took control with a tournament-record 61 in the third round. Merritt had missed five straight cuts entering the tournament. Merritt hasn't won since and has missed 10 cuts in 18 events this season. He last played the St. Jude Classic two weeks ago and was T68. Merritt is thus a +15000 long shot to repeat. No one has done so yet at this tournament.

Golf Odds: Quicken Loans National Favorites

Fowler is the +1400 betting favorite. He was one shot out of the lead here last year entering the final round and finished three shots back for a solo second. Fowler looks a bit lost right now as he missed the cut in a third straight tournament last week.

Patrick Reed and Jim Furyk are each +1800. Reed last played this tournament in 2014 and was 11th. He also missed the cut last week. Furyk was a co-runner-up at Oakmont. He last played this event in 2013 and was 44th.

Gary Woodland, Justin Thomas and Marc Leishman (all +2800) round out the favorites. Thomas was fourth last year. Woodland was 46th at Congressional in 2014. Leishman has Top 10s at this event in 2010 & '14.

PGA Tour Picks: Quicken Loans National Expert Betting Predictions

For a Top 10, I like Reed (+175), Woodland (+275) because this is a monster long track and he didn't play last week and get worn down by Oakmont, and Charley Hoffman (+275). Go Martin Laird at +450 as top European and John Senden (+500) as top Aussie.

You can get Fowler, Reed and Furyk at +500 against the field (-900), but I'd lean the field there. I'll take Reed (even) over Fowler (-130), Furyk (-140) over Leishman (+110), Hoffman (-115) over Justin Thomas (-115), Woodland (-115) over Kevin Chappell (-115), and Bill Haas (-120) over Russell Henley (-110).

Hoffman is my winner pick at +3000. He won in Texas a couple of months ago and was third at Congressional two years ago.

Copa America Semifinals
By Marcus DiNitto

Be careful what you wish for, the saying goes, because you just might get it.

Such is the case for the USA, as it faces South American giant Argentina in the Copa America Centenario semifinals Tuesday night in Houston. The U.S. is striving to reach the top of the soccer world, but if the betting line and gamblers’ sentiments are any indication, the Stars and Stripes have a long way to go to get there.

The USA opened as +675 underdogs on the three-way money line and +400 on the ‘to advance’ line at the Westgate Las Vegas SuperBook. Those numbers were not quite big enough to attract interest on the home side, as early action has been all over the favorite.

We’ve had people continuously betting Argentina to advance and on the three-way line,” Jeff Sherman, who posts soccer odds at the Westgate, said Monday. It’s been one-sided support.”

Not even any homeristic love for the home team?

(Bettors) always support the powerhouse, the top teams in the world, no matter who they’re playing,” Sherman said.

About 24 hours before kickoff, Argentina had been bet from -500 to -550 on the ‘to advance’ line, and from -215 to -250 on the three-way line, with the Americans’ odds jumping to +425 and +850, respectively.

The two-way spread bet went from an opening number of Argentina -1 goal (-125) to -150, with the USA offered at +130 with the goal cushion.

A tough task becomes tougher

Making matters even more difficult for the USA on Tuesday is the fact that three starters – Jermaine Jones, Bobby Wood and Alejandro Bedoya – will miss the game due to suspensions.

Sherman said the absences do not have a significant impact on the line, but handicapper Bruce Marshall believes Jones’ absence, in particular, is tough to overcome.

Jones, along with Michael Bradley, plays center midfielder, a position key to a soccer team’s ability to maintain possession of the ball. Maintaining possession, according to Marshall, will be critical to the USA’s effort in Houston.

If you can maintain possession against Argentina, you might be able to find enough holes where you can do something,” Marshall said. I’m just not sure the U.S. is going to have enough possession.”

The U.S., he added, is going to have to absorb lots of pressure from Lionel Messi and his highly-skilled Argentinian teammates and hope to score on the counter attack.

That’s where I wish they had Jones and Wood,” Marshall said.

Favorable format

If the game is tied after 90 minutes, it will go straight to penalty kicks; there will not be the traditional 30 minutes of extra time at Copa America Centenario until the final. This format seems to favor the underdog – the shorter the game, the greater the chance to emerge with a draw – and this dynamic is reflected in the betting line.

The price for (the USA) to advance would be even higher if they had another 30 minutes of extra time built into it,” said Sherman. If (the USA ) can play defensively and somehow get out of there 1-1 and get to penalty kicks, that evens everything up for them, and that’s one of their better chances. It helps the underdog.”

Marshall agrees the format is a plus for the underdog but does not see it being enough for the USA to beat mighty Argentina.

U.S. goalkeeper Brad Guzan is going to have to come up big, because Argentina’s going to get some chances, so they’re going to have to be holding on most of the way,” Marshall said. I don’t know they can pull a nil-nil out of this.”

As great as it is, though, Argentina is not unbeatable, and crazy things tend to happen in soccer games. There typically are not many goals in this sport, so if the USA can knock one in early, perhaps they can ride the momentum they’ve built throughout the tournament to a victory.

They’ve overachieved so far,” said Marshall. They’ve got a little mojo working for them here.”

Still, the handicapper is having a hard time envisioning a major upset.

When you least expect it, these guys seem to come up with an effort,” he said of Jurgen Klinsmann’s men. I thought they were done after the first match, and they’ve been much better ever since, although this is obviously a much bigger hurdle (than Costa Rica, Paraguay or Ecuador). …

I’m thinking probably 2-nil Argentina,” Marshall predicted.

Adios, Mexico

Mexico’s elimination from Copa America via the 7-0 thrashing by Chile on Saturday night was a welcome result for Las Vegas sports books. El Tri represented by far their largest futures liability.

The Westgate hopes the eventual champion comes from Wednesday night’s Chile-Colombia semifinal, because the book wins with either of those teams.

We lose just a little bit on Argentina, and we do really well with Chile and Colombia, and we do moderately well with the U.S.,” Sherman said. With the Stars and Stripes advancing to the semis, he added, we’re starting to see some U.S.-to-win-it-all money show up.”

Said Jason Simbal, vice president of risk at CG Technology, We don’t lose to anyone who is left, but Chile and USA are our best results.”

Preview: Stars (2-10) at Wings (6-7)

Date: June 23, 2016 8:30 PM EDT

The Dallas Wings' combination of potential superstars and role players has led the team to a season-best, three-game win streak, with the latest run of success an indication that the squad is finally finding its stride 13 games into the campaign.

The Wings hope to keep that run going when they host the San Antonio Stars on Thursday.

The memory that the Wings (6-7) lost six straight games before their current run has been wiped out by recent torrid shooting and clutch play. Dallas shot a season-best 52.8 percent from the floor (and a season-high 52.9 percent from 3-point range) in Tuesday's 100-90 home win over Phoenix.

That win came three nights after 117-111, triple-overtime victory against the Mercury in Phoenix.

"We are clicking right now and everything is just going well," Wings point guard Odyssey Sims said. "We're having fun. We're sharing the ball, smiling, high-fiving and that's always fun. We're just playing some basketball and trying to get some W's."

The surge has coincided with guard Skyler Diggins' return to the court after a knee injury kept her out of seven of Dallas' first eight games.

After leading the team with 27 points in the triple-overtime win at Phoenix, Diggins scored a team-high 20 points in the follow-up, her third game in double figures this season. Diggins is averaging 14.0 points per game since her June 11 return.

Thursday's contest will be the third consecutive road game for the Stars, who lost 81-75 to the Chicago Sky on Tuesday and, at 2-10, own the league's worst record and are winless on the road.

Guard Moriah Jefferson led the Stars against Chicago with new career highs of 20 points and five rebounds while guard Kayla McBride scored her first double-double of the season with 14 points and 10 rebounds.

The Stars recorded an opponent season-high 30 defensive boards against the Sky but lost the total rebounding battle 40-35.

San Antonio, which lost to Dallas 82-77 in Arlington, Texas, in the two teams' first meeting on May 21, has shot above 40 percent from the field in the last four games after failing to reach that percentage in six of the team's first eight games.

CFL Betting Notes - Week 1
By David Schwab

The start of another season of football ‘north of the border’ gets underway with Week 1 action in the CFL on June 23.

The Edmonton Eskimos come in as defending Grey Cup Champions and their futures odds to repeat are the best on the board at +375.

Calgary is a +550 second-favorite to win its second CFL title in three seasons and Hamilton has the best odds on the board out of the East Division at +625.

Straight-up and Against the Spread records from 2015

Thursday, June 23

Hamilton Tiger-Cats (12-6 SU, 12-6 ATS) vs. Toronto Argonauts (10-8 SU, 11-7 ATS)
Point-spread: Toronto -3 ½
Total: 52 ½

Game Overview

This is a rematch of last year’s East Division opening round of the playoffs in which the Tiger-Cats came away with a tight 25-22 victory as two-point home favorites. Their march to a Grey Cup title was short-lived with a 35-28 loss to Ottawa as six-point road underdogs in the division finals. The big question mark heading into this game is Hamilton’s quarterback situation with Zach Collaros still recovering from offseason knee surgery. Jeremiah Masoli was the team’s starter in last season’s playoffs.

Toronto will look to get off to a fast start in the brand new confines of BMO Field. The Argonauts will also look to snap last season’s straight-up four game losing streak to Hamilton including an early September 35-27 loss on their home field as a four-point underdog. Toronto has its issues at quarterback as well with Ricky Ray still on the mend from a shoulder injury. Trevor Harris is expected to get the start in his place.

Betting Trends

Hamilton has covered ATS in its last five road games against Toronto and the total has gone OVER in six of the Tiger-Cats last eight games on the road against the Argonauts.

2016 CFL season betting primer and odds
By ANDREW CALEY

We are still about six weeks until players report to NFL training camp, but if the football betting itch is getting to you, fear not.

All you have to do is look north.

That's right, the Canadian Football League kicks off this week and if you can't wait to sink your teeth into football betting then we have you covered. It doesn't matter that the field up there is a little wider, the balls are a little bigger and there are only three downs, we break down all you need to know to wager on the upcoming season in our CFL betting primer.

First let's check out how all nine teams did at the betting window last season, a year which was capped off by a Edmonton Eskimos Grey Cup victory.

CFL's teams against the spread (2015)

1. Ottawa RedBlacks 12-6 ATS
2. Hamilton Tiger-Cats 11-7 ATS
2. Edmonton Eskimos 11-7 ATS
4. Toronto Argonauts 9-9 ATS
5. B.C. Lions 8-9-1 ATS
6. Montreal Alouettes 8-10 ATS
6. Calgary Stampeders 8-10 ATS
6. Winnipeg Blue Bombers 8-10 ATS
9. Saskatchewan Roughriders 5-12-1 ATS

CFL's best Over bets (2015)

1. Saskatchewan Roughriders 12-6
2. B.C. Lions 10-8
3. Ottawa RedBlacks 10-8

CFL's best Under bets (2015)

1. Calgary Stampeders 12-5-1
2. Hamilton Tiger-Cats 12-6
3. Montreal Alouettes 12-6

Best betting trends from 2015

* Dogs 44-35-1 ATS (55.7 percent)
* Home dogs 13-9 ATS (59.1 percent)
* Unders 47-38 (55.3 percent)

Next let's take a look at some big CFL futures odds, including Grey Cup futures, Season Win totals and Most Outstanding Player, where Calgary quarterback Bo Levi Mitchell is the favorite.

Grey Cup Futures

Edmonton Eskimos +400
Calgary Stampeders +450
Hamilton Tiger-Cats +500
Toronto Argonauts +600
Ottawa RedBlacks +700
Saskatchewan Roughriders +800
B.C. Lions +900
Winnipeg Blue Bombers +1,000
Montreal Alouettes +1,200

Season Win Totals (Remember it's an 18-game regular season in the CFL)

Edmonton Eskimos O/U 11.5
Calgary Stampeders O/U 11.5
Hamilton Tiger-Cats O/U 10.5
Toronto Argonauts O/U 10.5
Ottawa RedBlacks O/U 9.5
B.C. Lions O/U 8.5
Saskatchewan Roughriders O/U 7.5
Montreal Alouettes O/U 7.5
Winnipeg Blue Bombers O/U 6.5

And finally, lets take a look forward to some Week 1 trends, dating back 11 CFL seasons for the first four matchups of the three-down season.

Ti-Cats’ troubles

The Hamilton Tiger-Cats can’t seem to get off on the right foot and enter the 2016 campaign on a 11-year Week 1 losing skid. To make matters worse, Hamilton is 2-9 ATS in those contests. The Ti-Cats are 0-7 SU and 2-5 ATS on the road in Week 1, which is where they open 2016 – at Toronto, for the Argos first game since moving outdoors to BMO field as 4.5-point underdogs Thursday. Hamilton has been outscored by an average of 33.5-18.4 over the past 11-years season debuts.

No Championship hangovers up north

The Grey Cup champs are 8-2 straight up in their last 10 Week 1 appearances (unlike the NFL, not every team plays in Week 1) and have managed to cover in eight of those 10 contests as well. Edmonton is a 6-point home favorite in a Grey Cup rematch against Ottawa this coming Saturday. However, the Eskimos will be without their head coach Chris Jones in 2016, who jumped ship to Saskatchewan to become the head coach, general manager and defensive coordinator.

Argos Christening new ship

As mentioned above, the Argonauts are moving to BMO Field, but their old home field was not much of a problem during Week 1. Going back to 2005, with a 3-2 SU and 4-1 ATS mark in that span.

Additionally, the Argos are also a profitable 2-9 Over/Under in Week 1 games the last 11 seasons. Toronto has scored an average of 23.6 points in those games while giving up 23.7 points against. Thursday's total is set at 53.

Put a Stamp on it

If you're looking for the another reliable CFL Week 1 trend, look no furter than the Calgary Stampeders and the Under. Calgary has stayed below the betting total in eight of those 10 opening week matchups. Saturday’s total against the B.C. Lions is set at 48 points.

Thursday's CFL betting preview and odds: Tiger-Cats at Argonauts

Hamilton Tiger-Cats at Toronto Argonauts (-4.5, 52.5)

The Toronto Argonauts host the Hamilton Tiger-Cats to kick off the 2016 CFL season Thursday. Hamilton won all three regular-season meetings with Toronto last year, outscoring the Argonauts 111-57 and scoring at least 34 points in each game.

Toronto is pinning its hopes on the return of a healthy Ricky Ray, who missed 15 games last year with shoulder issues, as the Argonauts let promising quarterback Trevor Harris walk away in free agency after he led the league with 33 touchdown passes in 2015. The Tiger-Cats won eight of their first 11 games before star quarterback Zach Collaros tore his ACL on Sept. 19, and they eventually fell short of their third straight Grey Cup appearance following a 35-28 defeat to the Ottawa Redblacks in the East Division final. Hamilton starts the season without Collaros as he continues rehabbing his right knee, and there is no set date for his return. The Tiger-Cats dropped 11 consecutive season openers and hope to record a Week 1 victory for the first time since beating the BC Lions 38-36 in 2004.

TV: 7:30 p.m. ET, ESPNews, TSN

LINE HISTORY: The Agros opened as 4-point favorites at home for their first regular season game at BMO Field. The line moved slightly futher in their direction up to -4.5. The total opened at 53 and came down slightly to 52.5.

ABOUT THE TIGER-CATS (2015: 11-9): Free agent acquisition Chad Owens, who spent six seasons with the Argonauts, is set to make his regular-season debut for his new team after catching five passes for 98 yards and a touchdown in a 42-25 preseason victory over Ottawa on June 17. Former Oregon Ducks quarterback Jeremiah Masoli, who passed for a career-high 349 yards in the playoff loss to the Redblacks, beat out Jeff Mathews for the starting job after a strong showing in training camp. "Jeremiah will be our starter," Hamilton coach Kent Austin told reporters. "He has a calmness about him that I think influences his teammates."

ABOUT THE ARGONAUTS (2015: 10-9): Wide receiver Tori Gurley looks to build on a sensational rookie year after catching 58 passes for 791 yards and matched a league high with 10 touchdowns in 2015. Toronto added former Hamilton stalwarts Bryan Hall and Justin Hickman during the offseason to solidify the defensive line following Tristan Okpalaugo's departure to the NFL, while kicker Lirim Hajrullahu takes over from Swayze Waters, who joined the Carolina Panthers. "I like our team," Toronto coach Scott Milanovich told reporters. "Health is always an issue but going into the season I'm pleased where we are at."

TRENDS:

* Tiger-Cats are 2-8 ATS in their last 10 Thursday games.
* Argonauts are 1-4 ATS in their last 5 games overall.
* Under is 17-4 in Tiger-Cats last 21 games in June.
* Tiger-Cats are 6-0 ATS in their last 6 meetings.

CONSENSUS: The Argos are picking up 58 percent of the wagers and Over holds a slight edge in totals plays at 52 percent.

CFL Week 1

Not a lot to go on early in the CFL season, but we'll do what we can..........

Hamilton @ Toronto-- TiCats won eight of last ten games with Toronto; they were 4-0 vs Argonauts LY, nipping Argos 25-22 (-2) at home in playoffs, kicking FG on last play of game. Under is 10-3 in Hamilton's last 13 season openers, 23-9 in Toronto's last 32. Over is 7-3 in last ten series games, 6-2 in TiCats' last eight visits here.

Montreal @ Winnipeg-- Blue Bombers won five of last six games with Montreal, winning 24-16/25-23 in last two played here. Winnipeg covered 11 of last 16 series games. Under is 29-13 in Montreal's last 42 games, 16-6 in their last 22 road games. Under is 11-4-1 in Bombers' last 16 games, 6-1-1 in their last eight at home.

Ottawa @ Edmonton-- Eskimos beat Ottawa 26-20 in Grey Cup LY, scoring winning TD with 3:22 left; RedBlacks had gotten there in their second year of existence. Edmonton is 5-0 vs Ottawa, with three wins by 11+ points- four of the five games stayed under the total. Teams met in Weeks 2-3 LY, then never met again until the Grey Cup. Ottawa lost its two visits here 27-11/46-17.

Calgary @ BC Lions-- Calgary won last three games vs British Columbia, winning all three games vs Lions LY by 12-21-26 points. Stampeders won 33-16/28-7 in their last two visits here- they are 20-8-1 vs spread in last 29 series games, 11-3 in last 14 played here. Calgary covered seven of last ten season openers; under is 8-3-1 in their last 12 games overall.

At the Gate - Thursday
By Mike Dempsey

We will head out to Southern California on Saturday for the $500,000 Gold Cup at Santa Anita (G1), a Breeders’ Cup Challenge Win and You’re In race for the $6 million Breeders’ Cup Classic (G1), which is now just over four months away.

A strong field of eight will line up hoping to get a bit closer to the top runners in the handicap division, which are California Chrome and Frosted.

The Bob Baffert trained Hoppertunity ran third behind California Chrome in the Dubai World Cup (G1) in his last outing on March 26 and returns off a three-month break. He has landed in the exacta in seven of his 10 trips over the Santa Anita main track and lost the Gold Cup last year by a nose to hard Aces.

Hard Aces is back to defend his title and he is looking for his first win since that victory, the John Sadler trainee having lost his last eight starts. He was second to Second Summer in the California (G2) in his last start on May 22.

Melatonin is likely going to be sent off as the betting favorite. The David Hofmans trainee won the Santa Anita Handicap (G1) in March and was a good second to Effinex last out in the Oaklawn handicap (G2).

Completing the field are Bal a Ball, Second Summer, Lieutenant Colonel, Win the Space and Imperative.

The co-feature at Santa Anita on Saturday is the $300,000 Triple Bend (G1) at seven furlongs on the main track.

Subtle Indian, Cautious Giant and Coastline ran second through fourth respectively behind Wild Dude in the Kona Gold (G2) last out and Kobe’s Back, who was third in the Churchill Downs (G2) are the major contenders in a wide open race.


Here is today’s opener from Belmont Park to get the day off to a good start:

BEL Race 1 Clm $25,000N3L (1:30 ET)
#1 Imslopokerodriguez 4-5
#7 Bensational 12-1
#3 Doctor Dempsey 5-2
#2 Mighty Zealous 5-1

Analysis: Imslopokerodriguez took the field gate to wire to beat Alw-2L foes last out in his first start off the claim by the Gargan barn. The runner up and fourth place finisher exited that race to win next out. Now the colt returns here tagged for $25,000 and facing non-winners of three off a 3 1/2 month break. The barn is 28% winners (with a +ROI) with runners coming back off a 61-180-day layoff. The colt owns solid early and mid pace numbers and will price tough to catch here at a puny price.

Bensational tracked the early pace, came with a four wide bid and did not have enough punch left late in a fourth place finish against $35,000 non-winners of three last out at Aqueduct. The top three in that race all won next out. He comes back here off a short break for a low % outfit and jock, but is going to be a generous price in this spot and has a win over a wet track which we might see today.

Wagering
WIN: #1 to win at 6-5 or better.
EX: 1,7 / 1,2,3,7
TRI: 1,7 / 1,2,3,7 / 1,2,3,5,7

Today’s Featured Race of the Day from Belmont Park:

BEL Race 6 Clm $50,000N2L (4:09 ET)
#6 Undertherain 8-1
#8 Cap's Vow 2-1
#9 Adirondack Luck 8-1
#10 Barrel of Dreams 3-1

Analysis: Undertherain set the early fractions and weakened to finish fifth last out against $40,000 non-winners of two here. The two pair came out of the race to win next out, the winner Tent City remaining undefeated with a good looking win versus Alw-1 foes in her next start on June 19. The extra ground here may suit as her last win came going two turns at Gulfstream Park versus $50,000 non-winners of two.

Cap's Vow made a good late rally to finish in the runner up spot last out at this level, beaten a half-length for the top spot. She bounced back after a dull seventh two back off a five moth layoff in the slop in her first go off the claim by the Nevin barn. She looks primed for a good effort here third off the bench.

Wagering
WIN: #6 to win at 5-1 or better.
EX: 6,8 / 6,8,9,10
TRI: 6,8 / 6,8,9,10 / 5,6,8,9,10

Live Longshots:
These are price plays for exotic players looking to find a couple of extra contenders to use in their trifecta and superfecta wagers. Or for those with smaller bankrolls, you might want to get in a small win-place wager.

Belmont Park
R1: #7 Bensational 12-1
R6: #6 Undertherain 8-1
R6: #9 Adirondack Luck 8-1
R9: #10 Love Blues 10-1

Good luck today!

Handicapped by Chatsworth Consortium at Mohawk Racetrack

Always check program numbers.
Odds shown are morning line odds.


Race 8 - Post: 9:50 - 1 mile. TROT - Class Rating: 74 - Purse:$17000 - 5 YEAR OLDS & YOUNGER, NW 2


CONSORTIUM CHOICES


Chatsworth Consortium

# 7 SOUTHWIND STRYKER 5/2


# 5 SECRETCODE HANOVER 8/1


# 9 COUNTRY PROPHET 6/1


SOUTHWIND STRYKER is the most respectable wager in this competition. Worth a look here on the basis of the numbers in the speed figure department alone. The consortium gives this solid standardbred a really good chance to win this one, class figures are tops in the grouping. The wagering panel noted a bang-up event out of this standardbred last time. Hoping for a repeat effort of that to win. SECRETCODE HANOVER - Many horse players know speed is is key. This race horse has credentials with a 78 avg rating. A change in the horse's equipment for this race. First time hoppled likely to result in good improvement. COUNTRY PROPHET - Should be in the hunt again for this one, looking to increase that already high lifetime winning clip.

Handicapped by Chatsworth Consortium at Saratoga Harness

Always check program numbers.
Odds shown are morning line odds.


Race 1 - Post: 4:00 - 1 mile. TROT - Class Rating: 67 - Purse:$7500 - NEW YORK SIRED ONLY - 3-YEAR-OLDS & UNDER NON-WINNERS 1 EXT PARI-MUTUEL RACE OR


CONSORTIUM CHOICES


Chatsworth Consortium

# 2 THREEHUNDREDLINDYS 4/1


# 1 NIGHT WITCH 8/5


# 6 STIRLING ECLIPSE 15/1


We've got a feeling THREEHUNDREDLINDYS is going to get the victory. Been battling with some tougher customers of late, has a distinct class advantage. (Average Rating 68). The brain trust noted a huge effort out of this standardbred last time. Looking for a repeat of that to dominate. Strong driver/handler figures make this nice horse a clear-cut choice. Unquestionably will be putting money down for this one. NIGHT WITCH - Has formidable speed ratings and clearly has to be considered for a bet in this race. Sometimes you just have to go with good vibrations, think about this one's chances. STIRLING ECLIPSE - Positive feeling - racing well enough to contend in this race.

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Gulfstream Park

Always check program numbers.
Odds shown are morning line odds.


Race 2 - Claiming - 7.0f on the Dirt. Purse: $17000 Class Rating: 77

FOR FILLIES AND MARES THREE YEARS OLD AND UPWARD WHICH HAVE NEVER WON THREE RACES OR THREE YEAR OLDS. THREE YEAR OLDS, 118 LBS.; OLDER, 124 LBS. NON-WINNERS OF A RACE SINCE MAY 23 ALLOWED 2 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $12,500


RECOMMENDED CHOICES

The Walker Group Picks

# 8 SOLFATARA 5/1


# 7 LIBERTY LUNCH 8/1


# 3 I'M REALLY SUMTHIN 6/1


SOLFATARA looks to be a respectable contender. She has been running well lately while recording strong speed figures. Looks decent against this group of animals and will almost certainly be one of the front-runners. Don't let this filly slip past you. Could score at big odds. LIBERTY LUNCH - Recent figs for the rider - 18 win percent - make this filly stand out in this group of horses. I'M REALLY SUMTHIN - Had one of the top speed figs of this field in her last competition. Always good to invest in a handler with this kind of respectable win percentage - 35 percent - at this distance & surface.

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Pimlico

Always check program numbers.
Odds shown are morning line odds.


Race 1 - Maiden Claiming - 5.0f on the Dirt. Purse: $33000 Class Rating: 81

FOR MAIDENS, TWO YEARS OLD. WEIGHT, 122 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $40,000, FOR EACH $2,500 TO $35,000 2 LBS.


RECOMMENDED CHOICES

The Walker Group Picks

# 2 EARNED IT 3/1


# 4 FULL QUEST 5/2


# 3 THE GREAT RONALDO 2/1


EARNED IT gets the edge as the wager in here. Looks respectable for the conditions of this contest today, showing solid figures in dirt sprint races as of late. Must be carefully examined based on the solid speed figure recorded in the last race. His 74 average has this colt with among the best speed figures for this race. FULL QUEST - Schoenthal has this gelding racing well and is a decent pick based on the very good Equibase Speed Figures put up in sprint races as of late. He has been running admirably and the Equibase speed figs are among the most respectable in this field. THE GREAT RONALDO - Salzman has him trained admirably to break quickly out of the starting gate. Could best this group based on the speed fig - 59 - of his last race.

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts

Bar

Churchill Downs - Race #3 - Post: 5:58pm - Maiden Special - 7.0 furlongs on the Dirt. Purse: $53,500 Class Rating: 92

Rating: Golden DollarGolden DollarGolden Dollar

#3 BURNTWOOD (ML=9/2)
#4 DISCREETLY FIRM (ML=5/1)
#1 GO GHETTO (ML=12/1)


BURNTWOOD - This colt is in nice physical condition. Ran fourth on May 29th. Look for this one to go all the way at some pretty good odds in this event. Ran fourth in last race, but not more than 5 from the lead at the wire. DISCREETLY FIRM - Fires brings him back again. I suggest you stick with this strong colt. Another way to judge class is EPS (earnings per start). This thoroughbred has the topmost in the group. I think he'll be close at the finish. The latest speed figure of 91 is the top last race figure in the bunch. GO GHETTO - Horse has shown some speed. This shorter distance should be better for him. Have to like the early speed on this one. No one else may even be close. Finished off the board last out at Fair Grounds, but was within 5 lengths of the winner. Opening at 12/1 makes me think he's got a chance. Have to forget about that last turf race. This horse should do better hitting the dirt right here.

Vulnerable Contenders: #5 ZERO HOUR (ML=3/1), #7 GOATS TOWN (ML=7/2), #2 RUNNING BACK (ML=4/1),

ZERO HOUR - Hasn't hit the board in any sprint contests of late. Not probable to see him doing it in today's event either. Garnered a quite unimpressive rating last race out in a Maiden Special race on Aug 22nd. Improbable to see an improved performance off of that rating. I usually try to beat these types of morning-line favorites off the long layoff. GOATS TOWN - Can't play this runner in today's sprint of 7 furlongs. Hasn't even finished in the money in a sprint contest of late. Earned a mediocre speed rating last time around the track in a Maiden Special race on May 29th. Not probable to see an improved performance off of that figure. RUNNING BACK - Should have at least finished in the money in the last two months in a short distance race to be worth the risk at minimal odds in a sprint.


STRAIGHT WAGERS:
Go with #3 BURNTWOOD on top if we're getting at least 4/1 odds

EXACTA WAGERS:
Box [1,3,4]

TRIFECTA WAGERS:
Box [1,3,4] Total Cost: $6

SUPERFECTA WAGERS:
None

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts

Bar

Belterra Park - Race #4 - Post: 2:57pm - Maiden Special - 6.0 furlongs on the Dirt. Purse: $20,500 Class Rating: 66

Rating: Golden DollarGolden DollarGolden DollarGolden Dollar

#1 ROLLIN WAY OVER (ML=7/2)


ROLLIN WAY OVER - This one already beat the morning-line choice in the last race at Belterra Park. Traditional angle - 3rd or 4th start after a layoff generally leads to a big effort. Today's the day.

Vulnerable Contenders: #4 WILBUR'S WAY (ML=5/2), #3 G G FLAG (ML=3/1), #7 ALPHONSE (ML=5/1),

WILBUR'S WAY - May 27th is the last time we've seen this colt around. Have to be a little bit leery. G G FLAG - This horse just hasn't looked sharp of late. ALPHONSE - Tough to like the downward moving flow (60/45/19) of speed figs.

Top HatGUEST COMMENTARY: Hal - ROLLIN WAY OVER - Analysis shows this gelding's last speed number of 72 is as good as any. Don't overlook this gelding in your investing.


STRAIGHT WAGERS:
#1 ROLLIN WAY OVER is going to be the play if we are getting 1/1 or better

EXACTA WAGERS:
1 with 7

TRIFECTA WAGERS:
Skip

SUPERFECTA WAGERS:
Skip

Handicapped by Rick Needham at Belmont Park

RACE #8 - BELMONT PARK - 5:13 PM EASTERN POST

7.0 FURLONGS TURF THREE YEARS OLD AND UPWARD OPTIONAL CLAIMING $65,000.00 PURSE

#3 CURIOUS CAL
#6 RUNAWAY POSSE
#7 THREE FOR ME
#1 SARATOGA HEATER

#3 CURIOUS CAL takes a class drop (-10), and has hit the board in "POWER RUN FASHION" in four of his last five outings, including a "POWER RUN WIN" facing better company in his last start. #6 RUNAWAY POSSE is the overall speed and pace profile leader in this O.C. field sprinting at today's "specialized distance" of 7.0 furlongs on the dirt, and has turned in a quartet of "POWER RUNS" in his last five starts. #7 THREE FOR ME has decent early speed abilities to compliment for this sprint, and has produced a pair of "POWER RUN WINS" in his last four starts.

Mohawk: Thursday 6/23 Analysis
By Garnet Barnsdale

DRF HARNESS

Race 1 - $30,000 Guaranteed Pick Five Pool

Race 4 - $50,000 Guaranteed Pick Four Pool


20-cent Pick 5: 1,2,4,6/3,7/1,2,4,5/5/3,4,7,10 = $25.60

Early Pick 4: 5/3,4,7,10/3,4,5,9/2,4,8,9 = $64

Late Pick 4: 2,4,8,9/3,7,8/6/1,5,6,8 = $48

MEET STATS: 149 - 470 / $815.70 BEST BETS: 26 - 44 / $87.20

SPOT PLAYS: 7 - 44 / $44.50

Best Bet: SAUBLE ASHLEY (4th)

Spot Play: THE POWER OF MANY (6th)


Race 1

(6) THORNE SEELSTER is a full-sister to Titus Seelster, who notched 14 wins, earned $168K and took a mark of 1:51 flat at Mohawk as a 3-year-old. She roared home to win her qualifier and MacDonald appears to be sending his babies ready as The Stable aims to make some noise early in the season. (1) ST LADS HOTCAKES is a full-sister to the speedy St Lads Peeper (14 wins, $247K, 1:51 1/5 Mohawk 5YO) that also looks well-prepped for her debut; using. (2) VILLAGE JAMIE is a full-sister to the useful Village Jessica and Dull Roar. She paced her final 3/4 in 1:26 3/5 to win her lone qualifier. (4) ACTION MAJESTY closed quickly in both qualifiers and is capable of bettering this prediction.

Race 2

(7) DEFI NORMAND set some strong fractions last week and held on well late. A repeat of that game try should beat these. (3) WEVE HAD ENOUGH made two moves in the same race and helped soften up the choice. He appears to be the main threat here. (2) JAGERSRO, as always, is a strong possibility for a minor award but unlikely for the top spot. (1) MINI HER closed belatedly in the same dash the top two raced in and now she gets to move inside. She should make the ticket if she stays flat.

Race 3

(5) BETTORS UP - a $15K Lexington purchase - finished strongly in her lone qualifier and looks like one of several that could win this. (1) BOURBON AND BARLEY motored home off slow fractions and is an obvious contender, but she may be over bet off her speedy final 1/4. (2) SOUTHWIND GEO made two moves to win her June 10th qualifier and she too is an obvious threat. (4) GUIDETTE HANOVER improved her overall time and last 1/4 speed on June 17th and is another that should be considered for Pick 5 tickets.

Race 4

(5) SAUBLE ASHLEY showed significant improvement second time out when on the rim a long way. She should have no trouble beating these if she is put into the race early and that scenario seems likely with Henry retaining the drive. (2) NORTHERN PRIMA came on again late after taking a mid-race shuffle, but she was still 4 1/2 lengths back of the choice. She seems very likely to finish 2nd or 3rd here. (9) FROG POND PRINCESS is capable of showing speed early then sticking around for a slice. (3) TREASURED MOMENTS is another that can leave quickly, but she has had some trouble finishing her miles. A minor share is possible here.

Race 5

(3) XPERT BAYAMA fired off a career best effort last week in which he gamely dug in late to hold off his closest pursuer. A repeat is very possible here considering his current sharpness. (10) PIRANHA roared home to win on the same night and also took a new life's mark in the process. His consistency and potent late kick should be respected here. (7) DERECHO produced the best effort of his life in defeat last week and is another in with a shot in a competitive tilt. (4) IMSPORTY paced a huge third 1/4 to bottom out the field last week and he is another contender that can make things interesting here.

Race 6

(5) THE POWER OF MANY passed half the field during the back half last week in a decent effort after shipping in and missing three weeks. Moving to the middle of the gate and returning to a 7-day cycle should make her a top contender here. (9) LIFE STRIKES got hung the mile leaving from post 10 in a Grassroots race - which seem to have more horses leaving hard than typical non-winners races. Tonight she has a better shot of making the front or landing a spot near the lead early and that makes her a threat here. (3) SCOTTIES SPIRIT - like many young Kadabra fillies early in their careers - could wake up and pop at a big price here. (4) ANNELI HANOVER chased strong fractions then tired late. She could hang on better here with more moderate early splits likely.

Race 7

(2) BIG RICKY should get a much better trip here moving inside several posts and having had a race over the track; slight nod. (8) VEGAS DREAM was outkicked late in a strong showing and he will get his first win of the year soon. (9) RED DOG SALOON was nailed only late at a big price and is another that can threaten if he leaves quickly to get position early. (4) DAYLIGHT RUSH could not repel an onrushing rival in the third quarter last week, but he has been sharp for weeks and is another one that could take this with the right trip.

Race 8

(8) V FOR VICTORY qualified sharply twice for this sophomore debut and it's very possible a lifetime best performance could be produced here by this Angus Hall gelding. (7) SOUTHWIND STRYKER was no match for the tripped-out chalk last week, but his good overall speed makes him an obvious contender here. (3) WINDSONGMUSCLELADY will be closing quickly late and she isn't out of this, but must avoid road trouble to be in a spot to win as the field turns for home. (4) THE BIG MUSCLE is typically one-paced and could make the ticket off a following trip.

Race 9

This looks like a now-or-never spot for (6) CRUISE PATROL. He will likely never find a softer spot than this one. (7) DAY TRADE HANOVER also faces easier and is likely to show some early speed here. (4) CHALK PLAYER likely leaves, takes a tuck near the front then sticks around for a smaller share. (5) MY OLD MASTER can close from the back and pass a couple of these late.

Race 10

(6) TANGO STAR was a strong 2nd to a big chalk last week and he appears to have found a good spot to notch his 2nd win. (1) BIG PLACE wasn't disgraced in Grassroots competition and is another that should like this company; using. (8) SILVERSMITH should be launching off for the front from the outset here and he could stick around for a good share. (5) MR SESSOR should improve racing against easier and starting from the middle of the gate. (7) NOTETOSELF HANOVER, with 7 shares from 13 starts, seems likely to fill in one of the bottom exotics rungs.

Yonkers: Thursday 6/23 Analysis
By Brewster Smith

DRF HARNESS

Race 7 - $10,000 Guaranteed Pick Five Pool

MEET STATS: 140 - 618 / $911.20 BEST BETS: 14 - 62 / $63.20


Best Bet: RAMPAGE JACKSON (1st)

Spot Play: SHARK FANTASY (6th)


Race 1

Will have to say that (6) RAPMAGE JACKSON is the speed of the speed and is seeking his fourth straight victory; all systems go. (1) MONTEZUMA BLUECHIP put in an even finish to land the third spot in his latest. (7) ELECTRIC CHAPEL N could land a share of the purse.

Race 2

(4) AFTER ALIMONY has put in two sharp efforts and with a well rated drive, this 6-year-old can make tonight a winning one. (2) NIPPY W HANOVER led most of the way but did not have enough gas in the tank and lasted for show money last time out. (1) CRUISINWITHMYBABY should fare much better from the rail.

Race 3

(6) UPFRONTWHOSURLADY cruised to an easy victory in her last start and this mare is in solid form. With another fine performance, the rest will have to settle for place money. (1) MY TALLIA IDEAL moves to the rail and that could help her cause. (2) SCOOTIN FOR JOY was seeking a down the road score but was nailed in the final strides last out.

Race 4

(3) BABY REMIND ME seems to be heading in the right direction, with a very good effort last time out for the place spot; figures to boss these at her best. (6) PLAYAWAY N was sitting in the pocket most of the way on route to an easy score at Philly recently. (2) I DO IT MYSELF gets Brennan and moves to the 2-hole, so she could make some noise.

Race 5

Since moving to Yonkers, (4) DELCO ROCKNROLL has been knocking at the door based on his last three starts; capable of getting the job done with a favorable trip. (2) WHAT I BELIEVE made a move at the half-mile pole to the front, but had nothing left in the stretch drive at Pocono last out. (1) THE ROCK ships in from Canada and was a game second at Grand River in his last trip to the post.

Race 6

(4) SHARK FANTASY did not have the best of trips in his latest. However, this gelding knows how to get the job done at Yonkers, so trainer Banca calls on Brennan to try to get this 6-year-old back to the winner's circle. (2) STAY UP LATE put in a nice rally for the third spot in his last try. (1) SEA STAR has tactical speed and the rail spot should put him right in the mix.

Race 7

(2) IT'S A GOOD THING is a very sharp 10-year-old gelding that has been in the exacta in his last four starts and has every right to keep on his winning ways against these. (3) REGULUS N will need a favorable trip to contend with this group but he is capable. (1) SHADIOS was sent down the road at Philly last time out for all the glory.

Race 8

(3) LITTLE JOKE was on the engine and led every step of the way for the victory last time out. Mare is in fine form, so two straight is not out of the question. (1) ROYAL KNOCKOUT Meadowlands invader was a game second missing the score by three-quarters of a length. (2) KAMWOOD LAUGHTER N gets post relief and could have a say in the outcome.

Race 9

(1) BUBBIE BOY moves down the ladder, has the pole position, and it is good to see Brennan keeping the faith; ready to score. (3) ROETHBLISSBERGER has scored in his last two starts and figures to be making some serious noise again. (2) COLONIAL ROAD's last start was not so good, so he needs to revert to his May 30th try to contend in here.

Race 10

(2) STONEBRIDGE TONIC seems to do much better from the 2-hole and clearly this 9-year-old pro fits in here; gets the call. (5) PIECE OF THE ROCK got the job done against lesser company in his last try. (4) JDS CALEB MAN was sent down the road last time out for all the marbles.

Race 11

(3) ZORGWIJK NOVA is on the drop-down and gets a cozy post to work with, so trotting mare can take this at her best. (2) GEORGINA CORNER posted a solid effort last out against open foes at Plaiinrirge, making it two straight victories there. Now she is back at Yonkers and Sears has the assignment. (1) LATOKA retains the rail and is knocking at the door based on her last outing.

Race 12

(3) GEISHA GIRL N did not race badly at Philly in her last two tries and now the pacing mare is back at Yonkers where she has done her best racing; can be the boss over this group with a well rated drive from Mr. Brennan. (4) KAITLYN RAE took the pocket route home to victory in her latest and she does have a fondness for the hilltop. (2) BROWN BRINNY was dull in her Philly finale, however this mare should do much better in her return to Yonkers from the 2-hole.