Zcode NFL Predictions: Week 6
Miami Dolphins versus Atlanta Falcons
The Falcons come in at 3-1 and a huge 11-point favorite over the 2-2 Dolphins. The last meeting between the teams was in 2013 when the Dolphins won as a home favorite. This game looks overwhelmingly in favor of Atlanta. They hold a +31 to +6 advantage on the Power Ranking Indicator. Similarly, the Falcons are “burning hot” on the Team Strength Oscillator compared to “ice cold down” for the Dolphins. Miami could cover if they play an excellent game, but look for the Falcons to win at home and improve to 4-1 on the season.
Detroit Lions versus New Orleans Saints
The Lions are coming off a tough loss at home to the Carolina Panthers. Sitting at 3-2, they take on the 2-2 Saints, who are a 4.5 point favorite. Detroit has won the last two meetings in 2016 and 2015 as road underdogs. The Saints are in the top ten in Team Volatility, which makes their favorite status a big more meaningful. The teams are nearly even on the Team Strength Oscillator, while the Lions hold a huge +22 to +8 edge in the Power Ranking Indicator. The Lions are the better team and despite the Saints being favorites, I expect Detroit to win their third straight against the Saints as road underdogs.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers versus Arizona Cardinals
The Cardinals come in at 2-3 after a 34-7 blowout loss to the Philadelphia Eagles last week. They are a 2.5 point underdog against the 2-2 Buccaneers. The Cardinals won as a home favorite in their last meeting in 2016. The teams are nearly identical according to the Team Strength Oscillator and Power Ranking Indicator. Tampa Bay is fourth in the NFL in Team Volatility, meaning they generally win as favorites and lose as underdogs. This it the deciding factor in a close match up. Take the Buccaneers to win as the road underdog to improve to 3-2 on the season.
Pittsburgh Steelers versus Kansas City Chiefs
The 3-2 Steelers head to Kansas City to take on the unbeaten Chiefs, who are a 4 point favorite. The Chiefs are tied for first in Team Volatility, meaning they are probably an excellent bet this week as a favorite. The Chiefs are +5.23 and “burning hot” on the Team Strength Oscillator versus +2.87 and “average” status for the Steelers. Similarly, the Chiefs hold a +31 to +23 edge on the Power Ranking Indicator. The Steelers won both meetings between the teams last season. Although the Chiefs are bound to lose at some point, it wont be this week.
Green Bay Packers versus Minnesota Vikings
In this classic NFC Central match up, the 4-1 Packers take on the 3-2 Vikings. The teams split last year’s meeting, each winning at home. Green bay is “hot” and +3.4 on the Team Strength Oscillator versus -0.85 for the Vikings. A significant advantage to the Packers is seen on the Power Ranking Indicator, +27 to +13. The final piece of information leaning me towards the Packers is they are in the top ten in Team Volatility. As a 3.5 point road favorite, look for the Packers to take down the Vikings and move to 5-1.
San Francisco 49ers versus Washington Redskins
The 49ers come in as perhaps the worst team in the NFL at 0-5. They are a 9.5 point underdog against the 2-2 Washington Redskins. The 49ers won last meeting between the teams in 2014 as home favorite, but this is clearly a different team. They are -4.65 with a “dead” status no the Team Strength Oscillator and 0 on the Power Ranking Indicator. The Redskins aren’t a super powerhouse team, but plenty good enough to defeat the 49ers this week.
Miami Dolphins versus Atlanta Falcons
The Falcons come in at 3-1 and a huge 11-point favorite over the 2-2 Dolphins. The last meeting between the teams was in 2013 when the Dolphins won as a home favorite. This game looks overwhelmingly in favor of Atlanta. They hold a +31 to +6 advantage on the Power Ranking Indicator. Similarly, the Falcons are “burning hot” on the Team Strength Oscillator compared to “ice cold down” for the Dolphins. Miami could cover if they play an excellent game, but look for the Falcons to win at home and improve to 4-1 on the season.
Detroit Lions versus New Orleans Saints
The Lions are coming off a tough loss at home to the Carolina Panthers. Sitting at 3-2, they take on the 2-2 Saints, who are a 4.5 point favorite. Detroit has won the last two meetings in 2016 and 2015 as road underdogs. The Saints are in the top ten in Team Volatility, which makes their favorite status a big more meaningful. The teams are nearly even on the Team Strength Oscillator, while the Lions hold a huge +22 to +8 edge in the Power Ranking Indicator. The Lions are the better team and despite the Saints being favorites, I expect Detroit to win their third straight against the Saints as road underdogs.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers versus Arizona Cardinals
The Cardinals come in at 2-3 after a 34-7 blowout loss to the Philadelphia Eagles last week. They are a 2.5 point underdog against the 2-2 Buccaneers. The Cardinals won as a home favorite in their last meeting in 2016. The teams are nearly identical according to the Team Strength Oscillator and Power Ranking Indicator. Tampa Bay is fourth in the NFL in Team Volatility, meaning they generally win as favorites and lose as underdogs. This it the deciding factor in a close match up. Take the Buccaneers to win as the road underdog to improve to 3-2 on the season.
Pittsburgh Steelers versus Kansas City Chiefs
The 3-2 Steelers head to Kansas City to take on the unbeaten Chiefs, who are a 4 point favorite. The Chiefs are tied for first in Team Volatility, meaning they are probably an excellent bet this week as a favorite. The Chiefs are +5.23 and “burning hot” on the Team Strength Oscillator versus +2.87 and “average” status for the Steelers. Similarly, the Chiefs hold a +31 to +23 edge on the Power Ranking Indicator. The Steelers won both meetings between the teams last season. Although the Chiefs are bound to lose at some point, it wont be this week.
Green Bay Packers versus Minnesota Vikings
In this classic NFC Central match up, the 4-1 Packers take on the 3-2 Vikings. The teams split last year’s meeting, each winning at home. Green bay is “hot” and +3.4 on the Team Strength Oscillator versus -0.85 for the Vikings. A significant advantage to the Packers is seen on the Power Ranking Indicator, +27 to +13. The final piece of information leaning me towards the Packers is they are in the top ten in Team Volatility. As a 3.5 point road favorite, look for the Packers to take down the Vikings and move to 5-1.
San Francisco 49ers versus Washington Redskins
The 49ers come in as perhaps the worst team in the NFL at 0-5. They are a 9.5 point underdog against the 2-2 Washington Redskins. The 49ers won last meeting between the teams in 2014 as home favorite, but this is clearly a different team. They are -4.65 with a “dead” status no the Team Strength Oscillator and 0 on the Power Ranking Indicator. The Redskins aren’t a super powerhouse team, but plenty good enough to defeat the 49ers this week.
Eagles-Panthers: Another enticing prime-time matchup
October 11, 2017
Just think: We get another enticing Thursday night matchup.
A week after the Patriots beat the Buccaneers in a tight prime-timer, division leaders Philadelphia and Carolina go at it in Charlotte.
These two are tied with the Packers for the best record in the NFC at 4-1. The Panthers have been particularly impressive with road wins at New England and Detroit, and the Eagles might be arriving a year ahead of schedule as they sit atop the NFC East.
Philadelphia ranks first in third-down efficiency (53.4 percent), with Carolina second (50 percent). The Eagles have scored at least 20 points in nine consecutive games, the longest active streak in the NFL. (Hint on our pick, maybe: We think they will get to 20 again.)
Cam Newton might be struggling off the field with unwise comments, but behind center he has completed 77 percent of his passes for 671 yards, six touchdowns and one interception in the past two games, those wins at the Patriots and Lions. He also has both Carolina TDs rushing.
''We went through a rough patch early on with the quarterback because he was still working himself back into football shape,'' coach Ron Rivera said.
''He had to get that arm strength back. The shoulder was getting tired quickly because it hadn't been conditioned the way it needs to when you practice as little as he did at training camp. So now he's starting to feel better and better and stronger and stronger.''
Carolina is ranked fifth in the AP Pro32 and is a 3+-point favorite over No. 3 Philadelphia. The winner must be considered a dangerous playoff contender.
2017 RECORD:
Last week: Against spread (10-3). Straight up (8-6)
Season Totals: Against spread (37-36-1). Straight up: (46-31)
Best Bet: 3-2 against spread, 3-2 straight up.
Upset special: 5-0 against spread, 5-0 straight up
PANTHERS, 26-23
KNOCKOUT LEAGUE TIP
OK, the Steelers did us in, specifically Big Ben playing as he was colorblind and throwing all those picks. So if anyone still has faith in our choices here, go with BALTIMORE only because we've already picked New England and Denver.
No. 7 New England (minus 9 1-2) at No. 22 New York Jets
We expect reality to settle in at the Meadowlands. If the NFL has any reality this year.
BEST BET: PATRIOTS, 45-17
No. 19 Tampa Bay (minus 2 1-2) at No. 26 Arizona
Still not ready to trust Bucs on road.
UPSET SPECIAL: CARDINALS, 21-20
No. 30 New York Giants (plus 12) at No. 6 Denver
Also were tempted to make this BEST BET with Giants so banged-up and inept.
BRONCOS, 22-6
No. 10 Pittsburgh (plus 4) at No. 1 Kansas City
Afraid we didn't learn our lesson with Steelers' flop vs. Jaguars.
STEELERS, 24-23
No. 2 Green Bay (minus 3 1-2) at No. 14 Minnesota
Packers look better away from Lambeau than at it.
PACKERS, 29-13
No. 32 Cleveland (plus 10) at No. 18 Houston
Injuries probably will cost Texans shot at division title. Won't cost them much here.
TEXANS, 23-10
No. 11 Los Angeles Rams (plus 3) at No. 13 Jacksonville
Two teams that have surprised so far.
JAGUARS, 21-16
No. 9 Detroit (plus 4 1-2) at No. 21 New Orleans
Rested Saints get enigmatic Lions. Spread seems high, shootout likely.
SAINTS, 34-31
No. 25 Miami (plus 11 1-2) at No. 4 Atlanta
Another rested NFC South team ready to pounce.
FALCONS, 27-13
No. 31 San Francisco (plus 9 1-2) at No. 15 Washington
Niners playing everyone tough, even if they can't get Ws.
REDSKINS, 26-20
No. 29 Chicago (plus 7) at No. 17 Baltimore
Young man Trubisky, meet veteran sackmaster Terrell Suggs. OUCH!
RAVENS, 20-3
No. 28 Los Angeles Chargers (plus 3) at No. 20 Oakland
Derek Carr's return key to Raiders' chances Sunday and beyond.
RAIDERS, 22-20
No. 27 Indianapolis (OFF) at No. 24 Tennessee, Monday night
No Luck? No Mariota? No way we're watching.
TITANS, 20-13
October 11, 2017
Just think: We get another enticing Thursday night matchup.
A week after the Patriots beat the Buccaneers in a tight prime-timer, division leaders Philadelphia and Carolina go at it in Charlotte.
These two are tied with the Packers for the best record in the NFC at 4-1. The Panthers have been particularly impressive with road wins at New England and Detroit, and the Eagles might be arriving a year ahead of schedule as they sit atop the NFC East.
Philadelphia ranks first in third-down efficiency (53.4 percent), with Carolina second (50 percent). The Eagles have scored at least 20 points in nine consecutive games, the longest active streak in the NFL. (Hint on our pick, maybe: We think they will get to 20 again.)
Cam Newton might be struggling off the field with unwise comments, but behind center he has completed 77 percent of his passes for 671 yards, six touchdowns and one interception in the past two games, those wins at the Patriots and Lions. He also has both Carolina TDs rushing.
''We went through a rough patch early on with the quarterback because he was still working himself back into football shape,'' coach Ron Rivera said.
''He had to get that arm strength back. The shoulder was getting tired quickly because it hadn't been conditioned the way it needs to when you practice as little as he did at training camp. So now he's starting to feel better and better and stronger and stronger.''
Carolina is ranked fifth in the AP Pro32 and is a 3+-point favorite over No. 3 Philadelphia. The winner must be considered a dangerous playoff contender.
2017 RECORD:
Last week: Against spread (10-3). Straight up (8-6)
Season Totals: Against spread (37-36-1). Straight up: (46-31)
Best Bet: 3-2 against spread, 3-2 straight up.
Upset special: 5-0 against spread, 5-0 straight up
PANTHERS, 26-23
KNOCKOUT LEAGUE TIP
OK, the Steelers did us in, specifically Big Ben playing as he was colorblind and throwing all those picks. So if anyone still has faith in our choices here, go with BALTIMORE only because we've already picked New England and Denver.
No. 7 New England (minus 9 1-2) at No. 22 New York Jets
We expect reality to settle in at the Meadowlands. If the NFL has any reality this year.
BEST BET: PATRIOTS, 45-17
No. 19 Tampa Bay (minus 2 1-2) at No. 26 Arizona
Still not ready to trust Bucs on road.
UPSET SPECIAL: CARDINALS, 21-20
No. 30 New York Giants (plus 12) at No. 6 Denver
Also were tempted to make this BEST BET with Giants so banged-up and inept.
BRONCOS, 22-6
No. 10 Pittsburgh (plus 4) at No. 1 Kansas City
Afraid we didn't learn our lesson with Steelers' flop vs. Jaguars.
STEELERS, 24-23
No. 2 Green Bay (minus 3 1-2) at No. 14 Minnesota
Packers look better away from Lambeau than at it.
PACKERS, 29-13
No. 32 Cleveland (plus 10) at No. 18 Houston
Injuries probably will cost Texans shot at division title. Won't cost them much here.
TEXANS, 23-10
No. 11 Los Angeles Rams (plus 3) at No. 13 Jacksonville
Two teams that have surprised so far.
JAGUARS, 21-16
No. 9 Detroit (plus 4 1-2) at No. 21 New Orleans
Rested Saints get enigmatic Lions. Spread seems high, shootout likely.
SAINTS, 34-31
No. 25 Miami (plus 11 1-2) at No. 4 Atlanta
Another rested NFC South team ready to pounce.
FALCONS, 27-13
No. 31 San Francisco (plus 9 1-2) at No. 15 Washington
Niners playing everyone tough, even if they can't get Ws.
REDSKINS, 26-20
No. 29 Chicago (plus 7) at No. 17 Baltimore
Young man Trubisky, meet veteran sackmaster Terrell Suggs. OUCH!
RAVENS, 20-3
No. 28 Los Angeles Chargers (plus 3) at No. 20 Oakland
Derek Carr's return key to Raiders' chances Sunday and beyond.
RAIDERS, 22-20
No. 27 Indianapolis (OFF) at No. 24 Tennessee, Monday night
No Luck? No Mariota? No way we're watching.
TITANS, 20-13
NFL Tech Trends
CLEVELAND at HOUSTON (CBS, 1:00 p.m. ET)
Browns on 5-15 spread skid since late 2015, 3-7 last ten vs. line away. Brownies 7-3 “over last ten away. Texans 9-3-1 as NRG chalk since 2015.
Tech Edge: Texans, based on team trends.
NFL Matchups NFL Matchups
NEW ENGLAND at N.Y. JETS (CBS, 1:00 p.m. ET)
Belichick has lost last four vs. line at Jets, and Pats just 1-6-1 vs. line last eight in series. Pats 6-14 vs. line as road chalk since 2013. Jets 12-5 as home dog since 2013 (2-0 TY!).
Tech Edge: Jets, based on series and team trends.
NFL Matchups NFL Matchups
MIAMI at ATLANTA (CBS, 1:00 p.m. ET)
Gase 5-2 vs. line last seven as visitor. Dolphins “under” first four TY after “over” 12-4 LY. Falcs “over” 18-5 since LY, but just 5-14 as reg.-season home chalk since 2014.
Tech Edge: Dolphins, based on team trends.
NFL Matchups NFL Matchups
DETROIT at NEW ORLEANS (FOX, 1:00 p.m. ET)
Lions have won SU vs. Saints each of past three years. Caldwell 2-0 SU and vs. line away (both as dog) away TY. Brees 5-13-1 as home chalk since 2014, also “over” 17-8 at Superdome since 2014.
Tech Edge: Lions and “over,” based on series, team, and “totals” trends.
NFL Matchups NFL Matchups
GREEN BAY at MINNESOTA (FOX, 1:00 p.m. ET)
After Monday vs. Bears, Zimmer 6-10 vs. spread since early LY, and 3-3 vs. line against Pack since 2014. Vikes also “over” 4-1 last five at home. Pack “over” 10-2 last 12 away.
Tech Edge: “Over,” based on “totals” trends.
NFL Matchups NFL Matchups
CHICAGO at BALTIMORE (FOX, 1:00 p.m. ET)
Bears 0-2 vs. line away (home team covered first five Chicago games TY), now 2-8 vs. points on road since LY. Ravens “under” 8-3 last 11 as host.
Tech Edge: Slight to Ravens and “under,” based on team and “totals” trends.
NFL Matchups NFL Matchups
SAN FRANCISCO at WASHINGTON (FOX, 1:00 p.m. ET)
SF 5-2 vs. line last seven since late LY. Jay Gruden just 4-8 as home chalk since 2014.
Tech Edge: Niners, based on team trends.
NFL Matchups NFL Matchups
L.A. RAMS at JACKSONVILLE (FOX, 4:05 p.m. ET)
Rams “over” 6-1 last seven since late LY, Jags “over” 7-2 last nine at home.
Tech Edge: “Over,” based on “totals” trends.
NFL Matchups NFL Matchups
TAMPA BAY at ARIZONA (FOX, 4:05 p.m. ET)
Rams won SU 4 of last 6 vs. Hawks, and covered last five as series host. Rams also “over” last six since late 2016. Into Indy, Hawks on 5-game spread skid since late LY, the longest spread slump of the Carroll era. Also if chalk note 1-6 mark last seven in role.
Tech Edge: Rams and “over,” based on team and “totals” trends.
NFL Matchups NFL Matchups
PITTSBURGH at KANSAS CITY (CBS, 4:25 p.m. ET)
Steelers only 6-6-2 as reg.-season dog since 2013. Chiefs have covered last seven and 10 of last 11 in reg. season. Steel “under” 5-0 TY.
Tech Edge: Chiefs and slight to “under,” based on team and “totals” trends.
NFL Matchups NFL Matchups
L.A. CHARGERS at OAKLAND (CBS, 4:25 p.m. ET)
Road team has covered last five in series, Chargers 4-2 vs. spread last six at Coliseum. Bolts 24-11-1 as road dog since 2012. Raiders “over” 9-1 last ten at home.
Tech Edge: Chargers and “over,” based on team and “totals” trends.
NFL Matchups NFL Matchups
N.Y. GIANTS at DENVER (NBC, 8:30 p.m. ET)
Eli has covered last two on road TY but G-Men just 5-5-2 vs. spread away since LY. Broncos 22-13-2 vs. line as home chalk since 2012.
Tech Edge: Slight to broncos, based on team trends.
CLEVELAND at HOUSTON (CBS, 1:00 p.m. ET)
Browns on 5-15 spread skid since late 2015, 3-7 last ten vs. line away. Brownies 7-3 “over last ten away. Texans 9-3-1 as NRG chalk since 2015.
Tech Edge: Texans, based on team trends.
NFL Matchups NFL Matchups
NEW ENGLAND at N.Y. JETS (CBS, 1:00 p.m. ET)
Belichick has lost last four vs. line at Jets, and Pats just 1-6-1 vs. line last eight in series. Pats 6-14 vs. line as road chalk since 2013. Jets 12-5 as home dog since 2013 (2-0 TY!).
Tech Edge: Jets, based on series and team trends.
NFL Matchups NFL Matchups
MIAMI at ATLANTA (CBS, 1:00 p.m. ET)
Gase 5-2 vs. line last seven as visitor. Dolphins “under” first four TY after “over” 12-4 LY. Falcs “over” 18-5 since LY, but just 5-14 as reg.-season home chalk since 2014.
Tech Edge: Dolphins, based on team trends.
NFL Matchups NFL Matchups
DETROIT at NEW ORLEANS (FOX, 1:00 p.m. ET)
Lions have won SU vs. Saints each of past three years. Caldwell 2-0 SU and vs. line away (both as dog) away TY. Brees 5-13-1 as home chalk since 2014, also “over” 17-8 at Superdome since 2014.
Tech Edge: Lions and “over,” based on series, team, and “totals” trends.
NFL Matchups NFL Matchups
GREEN BAY at MINNESOTA (FOX, 1:00 p.m. ET)
After Monday vs. Bears, Zimmer 6-10 vs. spread since early LY, and 3-3 vs. line against Pack since 2014. Vikes also “over” 4-1 last five at home. Pack “over” 10-2 last 12 away.
Tech Edge: “Over,” based on “totals” trends.
NFL Matchups NFL Matchups
CHICAGO at BALTIMORE (FOX, 1:00 p.m. ET)
Bears 0-2 vs. line away (home team covered first five Chicago games TY), now 2-8 vs. points on road since LY. Ravens “under” 8-3 last 11 as host.
Tech Edge: Slight to Ravens and “under,” based on team and “totals” trends.
NFL Matchups NFL Matchups
SAN FRANCISCO at WASHINGTON (FOX, 1:00 p.m. ET)
SF 5-2 vs. line last seven since late LY. Jay Gruden just 4-8 as home chalk since 2014.
Tech Edge: Niners, based on team trends.
NFL Matchups NFL Matchups
L.A. RAMS at JACKSONVILLE (FOX, 4:05 p.m. ET)
Rams “over” 6-1 last seven since late LY, Jags “over” 7-2 last nine at home.
Tech Edge: “Over,” based on “totals” trends.
NFL Matchups NFL Matchups
TAMPA BAY at ARIZONA (FOX, 4:05 p.m. ET)
Rams won SU 4 of last 6 vs. Hawks, and covered last five as series host. Rams also “over” last six since late 2016. Into Indy, Hawks on 5-game spread skid since late LY, the longest spread slump of the Carroll era. Also if chalk note 1-6 mark last seven in role.
Tech Edge: Rams and “over,” based on team and “totals” trends.
NFL Matchups NFL Matchups
PITTSBURGH at KANSAS CITY (CBS, 4:25 p.m. ET)
Steelers only 6-6-2 as reg.-season dog since 2013. Chiefs have covered last seven and 10 of last 11 in reg. season. Steel “under” 5-0 TY.
Tech Edge: Chiefs and slight to “under,” based on team and “totals” trends.
NFL Matchups NFL Matchups
L.A. CHARGERS at OAKLAND (CBS, 4:25 p.m. ET)
Road team has covered last five in series, Chargers 4-2 vs. spread last six at Coliseum. Bolts 24-11-1 as road dog since 2012. Raiders “over” 9-1 last ten at home.
Tech Edge: Chargers and “over,” based on team and “totals” trends.
NFL Matchups NFL Matchups
N.Y. GIANTS at DENVER (NBC, 8:30 p.m. ET)
Eli has covered last two on road TY but G-Men just 5-5-2 vs. spread away since LY. Broncos 22-13-2 vs. line as home chalk since 2012.
Tech Edge: Slight to broncos, based on team trends.
NFL's biggest betting mismatches: Week 6
New England Patriots at New York Jets (+9.5, 47.5)
Patriots' putrid pass defense vs. Jets' shutdown secondary
If you had told the majority of NFL bettors that the Patriots and Jets would have identical records through five games, you would probably get some strange looks. But that's exactly what has happened as the AFC East rivals do battle this Sunday afternoon at MetLife Stadium. Even more surprisingly, the team's point differentials aren't that far off - thanks in part to New England's strangely weak pass defense, and in part to the Jets effectively limiting opposing pass attacks.
Nothing has come easily for the Patriots, who have seen each of their last three game decided by five points or fewer. They escaped Tampa with a 19-14 triumph over the Buccaneers, but still surrendered 319 passing yards in doing so and have allowed 1,615 yards through the air on the season, by far the most in the NFL. Opposing quarterbacks have recorded an average passer rating of 109.2 in five games against the Patriots; only the Cleveland Browns (112.4) have yielded a higher aggregate rating.
The Jets can't hope to exchange offensive firepower with New England even with the Patriots struggling on the defensive end - but they certainly boast a more formidable secondary. The Jets rank in the middle of the pack league-wide in passing yards against per game (212), but are allowing the eighth-lowest passer rating (81.9). That number drops all the way to 56.2 at home, tied for the lowest passer rating in the league among visiting quarterbacks. If this trend continues, the Jets should keep this one close.
Los Angeles Chargers at Oakland Raiders (OFF)
Chargers' punishing pass pressure vs. Raiders' leaky O-line
Things have gone sideways in Oakland, with the Raiders - pegged by some as the potential Super Bowl representative from the AFC - having lost three consecutive games and dealing with an injury to their star quarterback. Even if Derek Carr returns this week - and head coach Jack Del Rio believes he will - he'll need to get better protection than the quarterback position has received in recent weeks. That could be a big ask this week, as the Chargers bring their league-best pass pressure to town.
Armed with two of the best young pass rushers in the game in Joey Bosa and Melvin Ingram, the Chargers have punished opposing quarterbacks all season long. Los Angeles enters the game with the best sack rate in the NFL, taking down the QB on 10.18 percent of opponent dropbacks through five games. The Chargers have been even more prolific on the road, registering a 12.33-percent sack rate in two games away from Los Angeles. They rank third overall in total sacks with 17; Bosa and Ingram have 12 of them.
The Raiders haven't been able to keep the quarterback safe during their three-game losing skid. Oakland has given up a sack on 9.8 percent of dropbacks over that stretch; only five other teams have been worse at protecting the QB in that span. That dropped the team's sack allowed rate to 7.32 percent on the season, 20th-best in the league. And if the Raiders can't contain one of the top pass rushes in the league this weekend, they might struggle to end their losing ways.
Pittsburgh Steelers at Kansas City Chiefs (-4.5, 46)
Steelers' second-half woes vs. Chiefs' late scoring barrage
It's officially panic time in Steel Town, with the Steelers looking for answers after last week's 30-17 beatdown at the hands of the visiting Baltimore Ravens. Quarterback Ben Roethlisberger is hinting at retirement after throwing five interceptions in the stunning loss, and things won't get any easier for him in hostile territory this Sunday. The Chiefs have been the class of the league so far, due in large part to an offense that has been much better than anyone expected it to be - particularly in the second half.
The Steelers came into the season with high hopes on the offensive end - and having Le'Veon Bell and Antonio Brown on the roster doesn't hurt. But Pittsburgh is averaging fewer than 20 points per game with Roethlisberger looking like a quarterback on the downside of his career. The Steelers enter the weekend averaging a paltry 7.8 second-half points per game - sitting in the bottom quarter of the league in that category. It's a far cry from the 12 second-half points the Steelers averaged a season ago.
Perhaps Roethlisberger and the Steelers could learn a thing or two from Alex Smith and the surprising Chiefs, who have scored a league-best 164 points through five games. Kansas City was a below-average second-half scoring unit in 2016 but has exceeded expectations so far this season, leading the league with 19.4 second-half points per game. With Pittsburgh reeling and the Chiefs rolling, Big Ben will need to be a lot better than he was last week if the Steelers have any hope of keeping things close.
New York Giants at Denver Broncos (-11.5, 39.5)
Giants' third-down woes vs. Broncos' drive-killing prowess
You can find several reasons to fade the Giants this weekend at Sports Authority Field at Mile High - and it all starts with the state of the New York receiving corps. The Giants lost both Odell Beckham and Dwayne Harris for the season in last week's loss to the Chargers, while Brandon Marshall will miss multiple games and Sterling Shepard is also banged-up. The Giants were already having trouble converting on third down, and this won't make it any easier - especially against that vaunted Broncos defense.
New York's offense has struggled for most of the season, particularly at extending drives. The Giants have converted just 36.4 percent of third-down opportunities to date, tied with Cincinnati for 24th in the NFL. It's an extension of a trend that plagued New York last season, when it placed 31st out of 32 teams in third-down conversion rate. And what's even more baffling: quarterback Eli Manning has been decent on third down this season, completing 70 percent of passes with two TDs and zero interceptions.
He's going to need to be that accurate - or more so - this weekend as he faces a Broncos defense that has been positively brutal on opposing offenses facing third down. Denver has allowed foes to complete just 25.9 percent of third-down opportunities; only two other teams (Minnesota, Miami) have an opponent success rate below 30 percent. With most of his pass catchers on the sidelines and a fearsome Denver defense awaiting him, Manning will be in tough to improve his team's third-down numbers.
New England Patriots at New York Jets (+9.5, 47.5)
Patriots' putrid pass defense vs. Jets' shutdown secondary
If you had told the majority of NFL bettors that the Patriots and Jets would have identical records through five games, you would probably get some strange looks. But that's exactly what has happened as the AFC East rivals do battle this Sunday afternoon at MetLife Stadium. Even more surprisingly, the team's point differentials aren't that far off - thanks in part to New England's strangely weak pass defense, and in part to the Jets effectively limiting opposing pass attacks.
Nothing has come easily for the Patriots, who have seen each of their last three game decided by five points or fewer. They escaped Tampa with a 19-14 triumph over the Buccaneers, but still surrendered 319 passing yards in doing so and have allowed 1,615 yards through the air on the season, by far the most in the NFL. Opposing quarterbacks have recorded an average passer rating of 109.2 in five games against the Patriots; only the Cleveland Browns (112.4) have yielded a higher aggregate rating.
The Jets can't hope to exchange offensive firepower with New England even with the Patriots struggling on the defensive end - but they certainly boast a more formidable secondary. The Jets rank in the middle of the pack league-wide in passing yards against per game (212), but are allowing the eighth-lowest passer rating (81.9). That number drops all the way to 56.2 at home, tied for the lowest passer rating in the league among visiting quarterbacks. If this trend continues, the Jets should keep this one close.
Los Angeles Chargers at Oakland Raiders (OFF)
Chargers' punishing pass pressure vs. Raiders' leaky O-line
Things have gone sideways in Oakland, with the Raiders - pegged by some as the potential Super Bowl representative from the AFC - having lost three consecutive games and dealing with an injury to their star quarterback. Even if Derek Carr returns this week - and head coach Jack Del Rio believes he will - he'll need to get better protection than the quarterback position has received in recent weeks. That could be a big ask this week, as the Chargers bring their league-best pass pressure to town.
Armed with two of the best young pass rushers in the game in Joey Bosa and Melvin Ingram, the Chargers have punished opposing quarterbacks all season long. Los Angeles enters the game with the best sack rate in the NFL, taking down the QB on 10.18 percent of opponent dropbacks through five games. The Chargers have been even more prolific on the road, registering a 12.33-percent sack rate in two games away from Los Angeles. They rank third overall in total sacks with 17; Bosa and Ingram have 12 of them.
The Raiders haven't been able to keep the quarterback safe during their three-game losing skid. Oakland has given up a sack on 9.8 percent of dropbacks over that stretch; only five other teams have been worse at protecting the QB in that span. That dropped the team's sack allowed rate to 7.32 percent on the season, 20th-best in the league. And if the Raiders can't contain one of the top pass rushes in the league this weekend, they might struggle to end their losing ways.
Pittsburgh Steelers at Kansas City Chiefs (-4.5, 46)
Steelers' second-half woes vs. Chiefs' late scoring barrage
It's officially panic time in Steel Town, with the Steelers looking for answers after last week's 30-17 beatdown at the hands of the visiting Baltimore Ravens. Quarterback Ben Roethlisberger is hinting at retirement after throwing five interceptions in the stunning loss, and things won't get any easier for him in hostile territory this Sunday. The Chiefs have been the class of the league so far, due in large part to an offense that has been much better than anyone expected it to be - particularly in the second half.
The Steelers came into the season with high hopes on the offensive end - and having Le'Veon Bell and Antonio Brown on the roster doesn't hurt. But Pittsburgh is averaging fewer than 20 points per game with Roethlisberger looking like a quarterback on the downside of his career. The Steelers enter the weekend averaging a paltry 7.8 second-half points per game - sitting in the bottom quarter of the league in that category. It's a far cry from the 12 second-half points the Steelers averaged a season ago.
Perhaps Roethlisberger and the Steelers could learn a thing or two from Alex Smith and the surprising Chiefs, who have scored a league-best 164 points through five games. Kansas City was a below-average second-half scoring unit in 2016 but has exceeded expectations so far this season, leading the league with 19.4 second-half points per game. With Pittsburgh reeling and the Chiefs rolling, Big Ben will need to be a lot better than he was last week if the Steelers have any hope of keeping things close.
New York Giants at Denver Broncos (-11.5, 39.5)
Giants' third-down woes vs. Broncos' drive-killing prowess
You can find several reasons to fade the Giants this weekend at Sports Authority Field at Mile High - and it all starts with the state of the New York receiving corps. The Giants lost both Odell Beckham and Dwayne Harris for the season in last week's loss to the Chargers, while Brandon Marshall will miss multiple games and Sterling Shepard is also banged-up. The Giants were already having trouble converting on third down, and this won't make it any easier - especially against that vaunted Broncos defense.
New York's offense has struggled for most of the season, particularly at extending drives. The Giants have converted just 36.4 percent of third-down opportunities to date, tied with Cincinnati for 24th in the NFL. It's an extension of a trend that plagued New York last season, when it placed 31st out of 32 teams in third-down conversion rate. And what's even more baffling: quarterback Eli Manning has been decent on third down this season, completing 70 percent of passes with two TDs and zero interceptions.
He's going to need to be that accurate - or more so - this weekend as he faces a Broncos defense that has been positively brutal on opposing offenses facing third down. Denver has allowed foes to complete just 25.9 percent of third-down opportunities; only two other teams (Minnesota, Miami) have an opponent success rate below 30 percent. With most of his pass catchers on the sidelines and a fearsome Denver defense awaiting him, Manning will be in tough to improve his team's third-down numbers.
NFL Long Sheet
CLEVELAND (0 - 5) at HOUSTON (2 - 3) - 10/15/2017, 1:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
CLEVELAND is 6-16 ATS (-11.6 Units) as an underdog of 3.5 to 9.5 points over the last 3 seasons.
CLEVELAND is 4-16 ATS (-13.6 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
CLEVELAND is 4-16 ATS (-13.6 Units) in all lined games over the last 2 seasons.
CLEVELAND is 4-15 ATS (-12.5 Units) as an underdog over the last 2 seasons.
CLEVELAND is 4-12 ATS (-9.2 Units) against conference opponents over the last 2 seasons.
CLEVELAND is 3-13 ATS (-11.3 Units) when playing with 6 or less days rest over the last 2 seasons.
CLEVELAND is 4-13 ATS (-10.3 Units) in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
CLEVELAND is 3-13 ATS (-11.3 Units) after 2 or more consecutive losses over the last 2 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.
_______________________________________________________________
NEW ENGLAND (3 - 2) at NY JETS (3 - 2) - 10/15/2017, 1:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
NEW ENGLAND is 18-6 ATS (+11.4 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
NEW ENGLAND is 18-6 ATS (+11.4 Units) in all lined games over the last 2 seasons.
NEW ENGLAND is 17-6 ATS (+10.4 Units) as a favorite over the last 2 seasons.
NEW ENGLAND is 9-1 ATS (+7.9 Units) in road games over the last 2 seasons.
NEW ENGLAND is 9-1 ATS (+7.9 Units) in road lined games over the last 2 seasons.
NEW ENGLAND is 12-4 ATS (+7.6 Units) against conference opponents over the last 2 seasons.
NEW ENGLAND is 109-79 ATS (+22.1 Units) in games played on turf since 1992.
NEW ENGLAND is 9-2 ATS (+6.8 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.
NEW ENGLAND is 8-1 ATS (+6.9 Units) in weeks 5 through 9 over the last 3 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
NY JETS is 2-1 against the spread versus NEW ENGLAND over the last 3 seasons
NEW ENGLAND is 3-1 straight up against NY JETS over the last 3 seasons
2 of 4 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
_______________________________________________________________
MIAMI (2 - 2) at ATLANTA (3 - 1) - 10/15/2017, 1:00 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.
Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.
_______________________________________________________________
DETROIT (3 - 2) at NEW ORLEANS (2 - 2) - 10/15/2017, 1:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
DETROIT is 65-90 ATS (-34.0 Units) in road games against conference opponents since 1992.
DETROIT is 131-171 ATS (-57.1 Units) when playing with 6 or less days rest since 1992.
Head-to-Head Series History
DETROIT is 2-0 against the spread versus NEW ORLEANS over the last 3 seasons
DETROIT is 2-0 straight up against NEW ORLEANS over the last 3 seasons
1 of 2 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
_______________________________________________________________
GREEN BAY (4 - 1) at MINNESOTA (3 - 2) - 10/15/2017, 1:00 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.
Head-to-Head Series History
MINNESOTA is 2-2 against the spread versus GREEN BAY over the last 3 seasons
MINNESOTA is 2-2 straight up against GREEN BAY over the last 3 seasons
3 of 4 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
_______________________________________________________________
CHICAGO (1 - 4) at BALTIMORE (3 - 2) - 10/15/2017, 1:00 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.
Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.
_______________________________________________________________
SAN FRANCISCO (0 - 5) at WASHINGTON (2 - 2) - 10/15/2017, 1:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
WASHINGTON is 31-52 ATS (-26.2 Units) as a favorite of 3.5 to 9.5 points since 1992.
WASHINGTON is 59-92 ATS (-42.2 Units) as a favorite since 1992.
WASHINGTON is 84-113 ATS (-40.3 Units) in home games since 1992.
WASHINGTON is 84-113 ATS (-40.3 Units) in home lined games since 1992.
WASHINGTON is 84-113 ATS (-40.3 Units) in home games in games played on a grass field since 1992.
WASHINGTON is 22-45 ATS (-27.5 Units) in home games when playing against a team with a losing record since 1992.
Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.
_______________________________________________________________
LA RAMS (3 - 2) at JACKSONVILLE (3 - 2) - 10/15/2017, 4:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
LA RAMS is 3-11 ATS (-9.1 Units) in games where the line is +3 to -3 over the last 3 seasons.
LA RAMS is 177-227 ATS (-72.7 Units) in all games since 1992.
LA RAMS is 177-227 ATS (-72.7 Units) in all lined games since 1992.
LA RAMS is 80-116 ATS (-47.6 Units) in all games where the total is between 42.5 and 49 points since 1992.
LA RAMS is 8-18 ATS (-11.8 Units) when playing with 6 or less days rest over the last 3 seasons.
LA RAMS is 3-13 ATS (-11.3 Units) in games played on a grass field over the last 3 seasons.
LA RAMS is 65-95 ATS (-39.5 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record since 1992.
Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.
_______________________________________________________________
TAMPA BAY (2 - 2) at ARIZONA (2 - 3) - 10/15/2017, 4:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
ARIZONA is 6-15 ATS (-10.5 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
ARIZONA is 6-15 ATS (-10.5 Units) in all lined games over the last 2 seasons.
ARIZONA is 4-14 ATS (-11.4 Units) in all games where the total is between 42.5 and 49 points over the last 2 seasons.
ARIZONA is 3-11 ATS (-9.1 Units) in dome games over the last 2 seasons.
ARIZONA is 4-12 ATS (-9.2 Units) in games played on turf over the last 2 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
ARIZONA is 1-0 against the spread versus TAMPA BAY over the last 3 seasons
ARIZONA is 1-0 straight up against TAMPA BAY over the last 3 seasons
1 of 1 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
_______________________________________________________________
PITTSBURGH (3 - 2) at KANSAS CITY (5 - 0) - 10/15/2017, 4:25 PM
Top Trends for this game.
PITTSBURGH is 58-36 ATS (+18.4 Units) in October games since 1992.
PITTSBURGH is 65-43 ATS (+17.7 Units) in weeks 5 through 9 since 1992.
Head-to-Head Series History
PITTSBURGH is 2-1 against the spread versus KANSAS CITY over the last 3 seasons
PITTSBURGH is 2-1 straight up against KANSAS CITY over the last 3 seasons
2 of 3 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
_______________________________________________________________
LA CHARGERS (1 - 4) at OAKLAND (2 - 3) - 10/15/2017, 4:25 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.
Head-to-Head Series History
OAKLAND is 2-2 against the spread versus LA CHARGERS over the last 3 seasons
OAKLAND is 4-0 straight up against LA CHARGERS over the last 3 seasons
2 of 4 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
_______________________________________________________________
NY GIANTS (0 - 5) at DENVER (3 - 1) - 10/15/2017, 8:30 PM
Top Trends for this game.
DENVER is 18-5 ATS (+12.5 Units) when playing with 2 weeks or more of rest since 1992.
DENVER is 12-3 ATS (+8.7 Units) in home games against NFC East division opponents since 1992.
DENVER is 22-10 ATS (+11.0 Units) after a bye week since 1992.
DENVER is 25-43 ATS (-22.3 Units) in home games when playing against a team with a losing record since 1992.
Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.
CLEVELAND (0 - 5) at HOUSTON (2 - 3) - 10/15/2017, 1:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
CLEVELAND is 6-16 ATS (-11.6 Units) as an underdog of 3.5 to 9.5 points over the last 3 seasons.
CLEVELAND is 4-16 ATS (-13.6 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
CLEVELAND is 4-16 ATS (-13.6 Units) in all lined games over the last 2 seasons.
CLEVELAND is 4-15 ATS (-12.5 Units) as an underdog over the last 2 seasons.
CLEVELAND is 4-12 ATS (-9.2 Units) against conference opponents over the last 2 seasons.
CLEVELAND is 3-13 ATS (-11.3 Units) when playing with 6 or less days rest over the last 2 seasons.
CLEVELAND is 4-13 ATS (-10.3 Units) in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
CLEVELAND is 3-13 ATS (-11.3 Units) after 2 or more consecutive losses over the last 2 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.
_______________________________________________________________
NEW ENGLAND (3 - 2) at NY JETS (3 - 2) - 10/15/2017, 1:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
NEW ENGLAND is 18-6 ATS (+11.4 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
NEW ENGLAND is 18-6 ATS (+11.4 Units) in all lined games over the last 2 seasons.
NEW ENGLAND is 17-6 ATS (+10.4 Units) as a favorite over the last 2 seasons.
NEW ENGLAND is 9-1 ATS (+7.9 Units) in road games over the last 2 seasons.
NEW ENGLAND is 9-1 ATS (+7.9 Units) in road lined games over the last 2 seasons.
NEW ENGLAND is 12-4 ATS (+7.6 Units) against conference opponents over the last 2 seasons.
NEW ENGLAND is 109-79 ATS (+22.1 Units) in games played on turf since 1992.
NEW ENGLAND is 9-2 ATS (+6.8 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.
NEW ENGLAND is 8-1 ATS (+6.9 Units) in weeks 5 through 9 over the last 3 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
NY JETS is 2-1 against the spread versus NEW ENGLAND over the last 3 seasons
NEW ENGLAND is 3-1 straight up against NY JETS over the last 3 seasons
2 of 4 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
_______________________________________________________________
MIAMI (2 - 2) at ATLANTA (3 - 1) - 10/15/2017, 1:00 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.
Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.
_______________________________________________________________
DETROIT (3 - 2) at NEW ORLEANS (2 - 2) - 10/15/2017, 1:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
DETROIT is 65-90 ATS (-34.0 Units) in road games against conference opponents since 1992.
DETROIT is 131-171 ATS (-57.1 Units) when playing with 6 or less days rest since 1992.
Head-to-Head Series History
DETROIT is 2-0 against the spread versus NEW ORLEANS over the last 3 seasons
DETROIT is 2-0 straight up against NEW ORLEANS over the last 3 seasons
1 of 2 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
_______________________________________________________________
GREEN BAY (4 - 1) at MINNESOTA (3 - 2) - 10/15/2017, 1:00 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.
Head-to-Head Series History
MINNESOTA is 2-2 against the spread versus GREEN BAY over the last 3 seasons
MINNESOTA is 2-2 straight up against GREEN BAY over the last 3 seasons
3 of 4 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
_______________________________________________________________
CHICAGO (1 - 4) at BALTIMORE (3 - 2) - 10/15/2017, 1:00 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.
Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.
_______________________________________________________________
SAN FRANCISCO (0 - 5) at WASHINGTON (2 - 2) - 10/15/2017, 1:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
WASHINGTON is 31-52 ATS (-26.2 Units) as a favorite of 3.5 to 9.5 points since 1992.
WASHINGTON is 59-92 ATS (-42.2 Units) as a favorite since 1992.
WASHINGTON is 84-113 ATS (-40.3 Units) in home games since 1992.
WASHINGTON is 84-113 ATS (-40.3 Units) in home lined games since 1992.
WASHINGTON is 84-113 ATS (-40.3 Units) in home games in games played on a grass field since 1992.
WASHINGTON is 22-45 ATS (-27.5 Units) in home games when playing against a team with a losing record since 1992.
Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.
_______________________________________________________________
LA RAMS (3 - 2) at JACKSONVILLE (3 - 2) - 10/15/2017, 4:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
LA RAMS is 3-11 ATS (-9.1 Units) in games where the line is +3 to -3 over the last 3 seasons.
LA RAMS is 177-227 ATS (-72.7 Units) in all games since 1992.
LA RAMS is 177-227 ATS (-72.7 Units) in all lined games since 1992.
LA RAMS is 80-116 ATS (-47.6 Units) in all games where the total is between 42.5 and 49 points since 1992.
LA RAMS is 8-18 ATS (-11.8 Units) when playing with 6 or less days rest over the last 3 seasons.
LA RAMS is 3-13 ATS (-11.3 Units) in games played on a grass field over the last 3 seasons.
LA RAMS is 65-95 ATS (-39.5 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record since 1992.
Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.
_______________________________________________________________
TAMPA BAY (2 - 2) at ARIZONA (2 - 3) - 10/15/2017, 4:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
ARIZONA is 6-15 ATS (-10.5 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
ARIZONA is 6-15 ATS (-10.5 Units) in all lined games over the last 2 seasons.
ARIZONA is 4-14 ATS (-11.4 Units) in all games where the total is between 42.5 and 49 points over the last 2 seasons.
ARIZONA is 3-11 ATS (-9.1 Units) in dome games over the last 2 seasons.
ARIZONA is 4-12 ATS (-9.2 Units) in games played on turf over the last 2 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
ARIZONA is 1-0 against the spread versus TAMPA BAY over the last 3 seasons
ARIZONA is 1-0 straight up against TAMPA BAY over the last 3 seasons
1 of 1 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
_______________________________________________________________
PITTSBURGH (3 - 2) at KANSAS CITY (5 - 0) - 10/15/2017, 4:25 PM
Top Trends for this game.
PITTSBURGH is 58-36 ATS (+18.4 Units) in October games since 1992.
PITTSBURGH is 65-43 ATS (+17.7 Units) in weeks 5 through 9 since 1992.
Head-to-Head Series History
PITTSBURGH is 2-1 against the spread versus KANSAS CITY over the last 3 seasons
PITTSBURGH is 2-1 straight up against KANSAS CITY over the last 3 seasons
2 of 3 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
_______________________________________________________________
LA CHARGERS (1 - 4) at OAKLAND (2 - 3) - 10/15/2017, 4:25 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.
Head-to-Head Series History
OAKLAND is 2-2 against the spread versus LA CHARGERS over the last 3 seasons
OAKLAND is 4-0 straight up against LA CHARGERS over the last 3 seasons
2 of 4 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
_______________________________________________________________
NY GIANTS (0 - 5) at DENVER (3 - 1) - 10/15/2017, 8:30 PM
Top Trends for this game.
DENVER is 18-5 ATS (+12.5 Units) when playing with 2 weeks or more of rest since 1992.
DENVER is 12-3 ATS (+8.7 Units) in home games against NFC East division opponents since 1992.
DENVER is 22-10 ATS (+11.0 Units) after a bye week since 1992.
DENVER is 25-43 ATS (-22.3 Units) in home games when playing against a team with a losing record since 1992.
Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.
NFL Trend Report
2:00 PM
SAN FRANCISCO vs. WASHINGTON
San Francisco is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games when playing on the road against Washington
San Francisco is 6-13-1 ATS in its last 20 games
The total has gone OVER in 8 of Washington's last 12 games at home
Washington is 1-5 SU in its last 6 games when playing at home against San Francisco
2:00 PM
GREEN BAY vs. MINNESOTA
Green Bay is 5-2 SU in its last 7 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Green Bay's last 5 games when playing Minnesota
Minnesota is 2-5 SU in its last 7 games when playing at home against Green Bay
Minnesota is 3-11-1 SU in its last 15 games ,when playing Green Bay
2:00 PM
NEW ENGLAND vs. NY JETS
New England is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games on the road
New England is 1-6-1 ATS in their last 8 games when playing NY Jets
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of the NY Jets last 7 games
NY Jets are 4-2 SU in their last 6 games
2:00 PM
MIAMI vs. ATLANTA
Miami is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Miami's last 8 games when playing Atlanta
Atlanta is 5-2 SU in its last 7 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 12 of Atlanta's last 13 games at home
2:00 PM
DETROIT vs. NEW ORLEANS
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Detroit's last 6 games when playing New Orleans
The total has gone UNDER in 8 of Detroit's last 9 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 6 of New Orleans's last 7 games
The total has gone OVER in 11 of New Orleans's last 14 games at home
2:00 PM
CLEVELAND vs. HOUSTON
Cleveland is 2-12-1 ATS in its last 15 games
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Cleveland's last 5 games when playing Houston
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Houston's last 6 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Houston's last 7 games
2:00 PM
CHICAGO vs. BALTIMORE
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Chicago's last 5 games when playing Baltimore
Chicago is 2-8 ATS in its last 10 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Baltimore's last 8 games at home
Baltimore is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Chicago
5:05 PM
LOS ANGELES vs. JACKSONVILLE
Los Angeles is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Los Angeles's last 7 games
Jacksonville is 4-12 SU in its last 16 games
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Jacksonville's last 9 games
5:05 PM
TAMPA BAY vs. ARIZONA
Tampa Bay is 2-5 ATS in its last 7 games when playing Arizona
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Tampa Bay's last 5 games when playing Arizona
Arizona17-7-1 SU in its last 25 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Arizona's last 5 games
5:25 PM
PITTSBURGH vs. KANSAS CITY
Pittsburgh is 7-2 SU in its last 9 games on the road
Pittsburgh is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games when playing Kansas City
The total has gone UNDER in 10 of Kansas City's last 14 games at home
Kansas City is 6-12-1 ATS in its last 19 games when playing Pittsburgh
5:25 PM
LOS ANGELES vs. OAKLAND
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Los Angeles's last 6 games
The total has gone OVER in 7 of Los Angeles's last 10 games when playing on the road against Oakland
Oakland is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing Los Angeles
Oakland is 2-5 SU in its last 7 games
9:30 PM
NY GIANTS vs. DENVER
NY Giants are 2-4 SU in their last 6 games when playing Denver
The total has gone OVER in 4 of the NY Giants last 6 games when playing Denver
Denver is 4-2 SU in their last 6 games when playing NY Giants
Denver is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games
2:00 PM
SAN FRANCISCO vs. WASHINGTON
San Francisco is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games when playing on the road against Washington
San Francisco is 6-13-1 ATS in its last 20 games
The total has gone OVER in 8 of Washington's last 12 games at home
Washington is 1-5 SU in its last 6 games when playing at home against San Francisco
2:00 PM
GREEN BAY vs. MINNESOTA
Green Bay is 5-2 SU in its last 7 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Green Bay's last 5 games when playing Minnesota
Minnesota is 2-5 SU in its last 7 games when playing at home against Green Bay
Minnesota is 3-11-1 SU in its last 15 games ,when playing Green Bay
2:00 PM
NEW ENGLAND vs. NY JETS
New England is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games on the road
New England is 1-6-1 ATS in their last 8 games when playing NY Jets
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of the NY Jets last 7 games
NY Jets are 4-2 SU in their last 6 games
2:00 PM
MIAMI vs. ATLANTA
Miami is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Miami's last 8 games when playing Atlanta
Atlanta is 5-2 SU in its last 7 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 12 of Atlanta's last 13 games at home
2:00 PM
DETROIT vs. NEW ORLEANS
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Detroit's last 6 games when playing New Orleans
The total has gone UNDER in 8 of Detroit's last 9 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 6 of New Orleans's last 7 games
The total has gone OVER in 11 of New Orleans's last 14 games at home
2:00 PM
CLEVELAND vs. HOUSTON
Cleveland is 2-12-1 ATS in its last 15 games
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Cleveland's last 5 games when playing Houston
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Houston's last 6 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Houston's last 7 games
2:00 PM
CHICAGO vs. BALTIMORE
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Chicago's last 5 games when playing Baltimore
Chicago is 2-8 ATS in its last 10 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Baltimore's last 8 games at home
Baltimore is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Chicago
5:05 PM
LOS ANGELES vs. JACKSONVILLE
Los Angeles is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Los Angeles's last 7 games
Jacksonville is 4-12 SU in its last 16 games
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Jacksonville's last 9 games
5:05 PM
TAMPA BAY vs. ARIZONA
Tampa Bay is 2-5 ATS in its last 7 games when playing Arizona
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Tampa Bay's last 5 games when playing Arizona
Arizona17-7-1 SU in its last 25 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Arizona's last 5 games
5:25 PM
PITTSBURGH vs. KANSAS CITY
Pittsburgh is 7-2 SU in its last 9 games on the road
Pittsburgh is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games when playing Kansas City
The total has gone UNDER in 10 of Kansas City's last 14 games at home
Kansas City is 6-12-1 ATS in its last 19 games when playing Pittsburgh
5:25 PM
LOS ANGELES vs. OAKLAND
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Los Angeles's last 6 games
The total has gone OVER in 7 of Los Angeles's last 10 games when playing on the road against Oakland
Oakland is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing Los Angeles
Oakland is 2-5 SU in its last 7 games
9:30 PM
NY GIANTS vs. DENVER
NY Giants are 2-4 SU in their last 6 games when playing Denver
The total has gone OVER in 4 of the NY Giants last 6 games when playing Denver
Denver is 4-2 SU in their last 6 games when playing NY Giants
Denver is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games
CLEVELAND @ HOUSTON
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Cleveland's last 5 games when playing Houston
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Cleveland's last 5 games
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Houston's last 5 games when playing Cleveland
Houston is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games when playing Cleveland
GREEN BAY @ MINNESOTA
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Green Bay's last 5 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 11 of Green Bay's last 12 games
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Minnesota's last 5 games when playing Green Bay
Minnesota is 11-3 ATS in its last 14 games at home
DETROIT @ NEW ORLEANS
The total has gone UNDER in 8 of Detroit's last 9 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 11 of Detroit's last 16 games
The total has gone OVER in 6 of New Orleans's last 7 games
New Orleans is 5-2 ATS in its last 7 games when playing Detroit
MIAMI @ ATLANTA
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Miami's last 5 games
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Miami's last 8 games when playing Atlanta
Atlanta is 6-1-1 ATS in its last 8 games when playing Miami
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Atlanta's last 8 games when playing Miami
CHICAGO @ BALTIMORE
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Chicago's last 5 games
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Chicago's last 5 games when playing Baltimore
Baltimore is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Chicago
Baltimore is 6-1 SU in its last 7 games at home
NEW ENGLAND @ NY JETS
New England is 5-0 ATS in its last 5 games on the road
New England is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games on the road
NY Jets is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games when playing at home against New England
NY Jets is 6-1-1 ATS in its last 8 games when playing New England
SAN FRANCISCO @ WASHINGTON
San Francisco is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games when playing on the road against Washington
San Francisco is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing Washington
The total has gone OVER in 18 of Washington's last 25 games
Washington is 12-6 ATS in its last 18 games
TAMPA BAY @ ARIZONA
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Tampa Bay's last 6 games when playing on the road against Arizona
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Tampa Bay's last 5 games when playing Arizona
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Arizona's last 6 games when playing at home against Tampa Bay
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Arizona's last 5 games when playing Tampa Bay
LA RAMS @ JACKSONVILLE
The total has gone OVER in 5 of LA Rams's last 7 games
The total has gone UNDER in 14 of LA Rams's last 20 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 7 of Jacksonville's last 8 games at home
Jacksonville is 6-2 ATS in its last 8 games
LA CHARGERS @ OAKLAND
LA Chargers is 11-4 ATS in its last 15 games when playing on the road against Oakland
The total has gone OVER in 7 of LA Chargers's last 10 games when playing on the road against Oakland
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Oakland's last 5 games at home
Oakland is 6-1 SU in its last 7 games at home
PITTSBURGH @ KANSAS CITY
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Pittsburgh's last 5 games
Pittsburgh is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games when playing Kansas City
Kansas City is 5-0 ATS in its last 5 games
Kansas City is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games
NY GIANTS @ DENVER
NY Giants is 15-7 ATS in its last 22 games
The total has gone OVER in 4 of NY Giants's last 6 games when playing Denver
Denver is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games when playing NY Giants
Denver is 13-3 SU in its last 16 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Cleveland's last 5 games when playing Houston
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Cleveland's last 5 games
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Houston's last 5 games when playing Cleveland
Houston is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games when playing Cleveland
GREEN BAY @ MINNESOTA
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Green Bay's last 5 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 11 of Green Bay's last 12 games
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Minnesota's last 5 games when playing Green Bay
Minnesota is 11-3 ATS in its last 14 games at home
DETROIT @ NEW ORLEANS
The total has gone UNDER in 8 of Detroit's last 9 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 11 of Detroit's last 16 games
The total has gone OVER in 6 of New Orleans's last 7 games
New Orleans is 5-2 ATS in its last 7 games when playing Detroit
MIAMI @ ATLANTA
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Miami's last 5 games
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Miami's last 8 games when playing Atlanta
Atlanta is 6-1-1 ATS in its last 8 games when playing Miami
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Atlanta's last 8 games when playing Miami
CHICAGO @ BALTIMORE
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Chicago's last 5 games
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Chicago's last 5 games when playing Baltimore
Baltimore is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Chicago
Baltimore is 6-1 SU in its last 7 games at home
NEW ENGLAND @ NY JETS
New England is 5-0 ATS in its last 5 games on the road
New England is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games on the road
NY Jets is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games when playing at home against New England
NY Jets is 6-1-1 ATS in its last 8 games when playing New England
SAN FRANCISCO @ WASHINGTON
San Francisco is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games when playing on the road against Washington
San Francisco is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing Washington
The total has gone OVER in 18 of Washington's last 25 games
Washington is 12-6 ATS in its last 18 games
TAMPA BAY @ ARIZONA
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Tampa Bay's last 6 games when playing on the road against Arizona
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Tampa Bay's last 5 games when playing Arizona
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Arizona's last 6 games when playing at home against Tampa Bay
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Arizona's last 5 games when playing Tampa Bay
LA RAMS @ JACKSONVILLE
The total has gone OVER in 5 of LA Rams's last 7 games
The total has gone UNDER in 14 of LA Rams's last 20 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 7 of Jacksonville's last 8 games at home
Jacksonville is 6-2 ATS in its last 8 games
LA CHARGERS @ OAKLAND
LA Chargers is 11-4 ATS in its last 15 games when playing on the road against Oakland
The total has gone OVER in 7 of LA Chargers's last 10 games when playing on the road against Oakland
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Oakland's last 5 games at home
Oakland is 6-1 SU in its last 7 games at home
PITTSBURGH @ KANSAS CITY
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Pittsburgh's last 5 games
Pittsburgh is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games when playing Kansas City
Kansas City is 5-0 ATS in its last 5 games
Kansas City is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games
NY GIANTS @ DENVER
NY Giants is 15-7 ATS in its last 22 games
The total has gone OVER in 4 of NY Giants's last 6 games when playing Denver
Denver is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games when playing NY Giants
Denver is 13-3 SU in its last 16 games at home
StatFox Super Situations
GREEN BAY at MINNESOTA
Play Under - Any team against the total in a game involving two average defensive teams (18-23 PPG), after allowing 30 points or more last game 29-8 over the last 5 seasons. ( 78.4% | 20.2 units ) 1-0 this year. ( 100.0% | 1.0 units )
PITTSBURGH at KANSAS CITY
Play On - Any team vs the money line (KANSAS CITY) mistake-free team - committing 0.75 or less turnovers/game, after 4 consecutive games where they committed 1 or less turnovers 44-19 over the last 5 seasons. ( 69.8% | 0.0 units ) 2-2 this year. ( 50.0% | 0.0 units )
GREEN BAY at MINNESOTA
Play Under - Any team against the total in a game involving two average defensive teams (18-23 PPG), after allowing 30 points or more last game 29-8 over the last 5 seasons. ( 78.4% | 20.2 units ) 1-0 this year. ( 100.0% | 1.0 units )
PITTSBURGH at KANSAS CITY
Play On - Any team vs the money line (KANSAS CITY) mistake-free team - committing 0.75 or less turnovers/game, after 4 consecutive games where they committed 1 or less turnovers 44-19 over the last 5 seasons. ( 69.8% | 0.0 units ) 2-2 this year. ( 50.0% | 0.0 units )
Dolphins (2-2) @ Falcons (3-1) — Miami’s OL coach was fired Monday for off-field issues, which can’t help an offense that scored 3 offensive TD’s on 42 drives in their 2-2 start. Last 3 games, Miami averaged 4.1/4.0/2.8 ypa, which is hideous. Dolphins are 7-11 in last 18 games as a road underdog. Atlanta is 7-1 in its last eight post-bye games, covering five of last six; they’ve run ball for 147 ypg in last three games. Falcons are 4-11 as home favorites under Quinn. Fish are 8-4 in series, but lost 38-16/19-7 in their only two visits here in last 20 years- their last win in Atlanta was in 1980. AFC East road teams are 7-2 vs spread outside their division; NFC South teams are 6-8 vs spread, 2-3 as home favorites. All four Miami games this year have stayed under total.
Packers (4-1) @ Vikings (3-2) — Keenum played QB in 2nd half of Monday nite’s win in Chicago; Vikings haven’t allowed a first half TD in last three games (outscored foes 31-8 )- they held last two opponents under 300 yards, last three opponents to 17 or less points. Minnesota is 12-3 in its last 15 games as a home underdog, 5-2 under Zimmer. Pack scored 35-35 points in last two games; Rodgers won game LW 35-31 in Dallas with last-minute drive- Green Bay is 9-7 vs spread in last 16 games as a road favorite, 5-2 in last 7 games on artificial turf. Last four GB games went over total. Green Bay is 11-3-1 in last 15 series games; they won 3 of last 4 visits to Twin Cities, but lost 17-14 in first visit to the Vikings’ new dome LY.
Lions (3-2) @ Saints (2-2) — Detroit won last three series games, by 1-8-15 points; they beat Saints here the last two years, 35-27/28-13. Lions are 2-0 on road, beating Giants/Vikings, but they lost last two home games; Detroit is just 11-39 on 3rd down last three weeks- they’ve run 65 times for 218 yards (72.7 ypg) in last three games. New Orleans is 6-1-1 vs spread in its last eight post-bye games. Saints are playing only 2nd home game- they allowed total of 13 points winning last two games after an 0-2 start. NO is 5-13-1 in its last 19 games as a home favorite. NFC North teams are 8-6 vs spread outside their division, 2-1 as road dogs. NFC South teams are 6-8 vs spread, 2-3 as home favorites.
Patriots (3-2) @ Jets (3-2) — Teams are in 3-way tie with Buffalo atop AFC East. Patriots are 10-2 in last 12 series games, with both losses in OT- teams split last four meetings played here. Pats won last meeting 41-3 LY. Extra prep time for NE after Thursday night win; they’re 2-0 on foreign soil, winning 36-20 in Superdome, 19-14 in Tampa LW, first game this year Patriots held an opponent under 7.6 ypa. Jets won three in row after an 0-2 start, they’re 12-5 vs spread in last 17 games as a home underdog. Gang Green held opponents to 13 points on their last six red zone drives, but that was vs sub-par NFL QB’s (Bortles-Kizer-Hogan). NE is 8-1 in last nine games as a road favorite- they have 25 plays of 20+ yards, #2 in NFL behind Rams’ 29.
49ers (0-5) @ Redskins (2-2) — Kyle Shanahan worked for Redskins with his dad from 2010-13; his 49ers lost in OT the last two weeks. Since 1997, favorites that lost the previous two weeks in OT are 4-2-1 vs spread in that 3rd game. Niners may be 0-5, but their last four losses were by 3-2-3-3 points- they’re 2-1 as road dogs. This is also their 3rd week in row on road, a historic soft spot for road teams. 49ers won last four series games, taking last two played here. Redskins’ last series win was in ’05. Redskins are 2-7 in last nine post-bye games; favorites covered 9 of their last 10 post-bye games. Washington is favored for first time this year; since 2013, they’re 5-10 vs spread as a home favorite.
Bears (2-3) @ Ravens (3-2) — Trubisky was 13-26/159 passing in his NFL debut Monday night, throwing key INT in last 3:00 that cost Bears the game, but he was OK. This is his first road start- he started only 13 college games at North Carolina. Chicago is 12-36 on 3rd their last three games; they’re 0-2 on road, losing 29-7 (+7) in Tampa, 35-14 (+7) in Green Bay- they’re 12-17-1 vs spread in last 30 games as a road underdog. Ravens scored 20+ in their three wins, with a +8 TO ratio- they scored 7-9 in losses, with -5 TO ratio. Baltimore is 5-3 vs spread in its last eight games as a home favorite. Bears are 3-2 in last five series games; home side won four of last five meetings. Ravens lost 23-20 in OT in last visit here, in 2013.
Browns (0-5) @ Texans (2-3) — Cleveland switched to Stanford alum Hogan at QB in 2nd half vs Jets LW- he led them on two TD drives in a 17-14 loss. Browns lost 24-10 (+7.5) at Baltimore, 31-28 (-1) at Indy in their two road games; they’re 6-11 vs spread in last 17 games as a road dog. Houston scored 33-57-34 points in last three games behind rookie QB Watson, but lost 2 of the 3; they allowed 29+ points in their three losses, 9-14 in their wins. Under O’Brien, Houston is 12-5-1 as a home favorite. Texans won five of last six series games, last of which was in 2014; Browns lost last three visits here, by 3-8-18 points. JJ Watt/Mercilus both need surgery for their injuries, big blow to the Houston defense. Since ’09, Texans are 5-3 as a double digit favorite.
Buccaneers (2-2) @ Cardinals (2-3) — Arizona is 2-3 with wins by 3 points each over Colts/49ers; their losses are by 12-11-27 points- they scored two TD’s on 23 drives in their last two games, scored 14.5 ppg in last four games. Dirk Koetter returns to Phoenix (was ASU’s coach from 2001-06); his Bucs got crushed 40-7 in Week 2 here LY, Bucs’ 3rd loss in last four visits to desert- teams split last eight series games. Cardinals are 4-3 as home underdogs under Arians, 16-10 since ’07. Tampa Bay (-2.5) lost 34-17 at Minnesota, in its only road game, first time in four years they were road favorite. Bucs are 5-4 SU on road under Koetter. NFC West teams are 3-9 vs spread outside their division. NFC South teams are 6-8 vs spread, 4-5 when favored.
Rams (3-2) @ Jaguars (3-2) — Two teams having surprising success under new leadership. Jags ran ball for 155+ yards in 4 of their 5 games; their wins are by 22-37-21 points. Jags are +11 in turnovers in those three games, -1 in their two losses, giving up 37-23 points- their defense scored 3 TD’s in their last two games, same as their offense. LA scored 41-35 points in winning its two road games, throwing ball for 10.4/6.8 ypa. Rams lost 13-10 to division rival Seattle LW; they’re -5 in turnovers in two losses, +4 in three wins. Home team won all four series games; Rams lost 23-20 in OT in only visit here, in 2009. NFC West teams are 3-9 vs spread outside their division, 1-6 on road. AFC South teams are 6-5 vs spread outside their division.
Steelers (3-2) @ Chiefs (5-0) — KC is best team in NFL right now, scoring 17 TD’s, trying 12 FG’s on 52 drives; none of their wins have been by less than 7 points. Under Andy Reid, Chiefs are 15-17 vs spread as home favorites, 2-0 this year. Pittsburgh is a road underdog for first time in three years; Steelers lost 2 of last 3 games, throwing five INTs in 30-9 home loss to Jaguars LW. Steelers won five of last six series games; they beat KC 18-16 here in LY’s playoffs, after crushing Chiefs 43-14 in Heinz Field during season. All five Steeler games stayed under the total; over is 3-0-2 in Chief games. Roethlisberger had one of his worst games LW, throwing five INTs with no TD’s- two of his INTs were run back for TD’s. He figures to bounce back here.
Chargers (1-4) @ Raiders (2-3) — Oakland lost its last three games, scoring 10-10-17 points; their QB has a broken back, his backup lost his last six NFL starts and the defense has zero turnovers in their last two games. Raiders are 5-6 vs spread as home favorites under Del Rio. Chargers got their first win LW; four of their five games were decided by 5 or less points. Bolts are 2-0 as road underdogs this year; since ’08, they’re 30-17-2 as road dogs- four of their five games this year went over total. Oakland won last four series games, last three all by 3 points; Chargers lost 23-20ot/34-31 in last two visits here. NFL-wide, home favorites are 5-8-1 vs spread in division games. Raiders’ team total stayed under in four of their five games.
Giants (0-5) @ Broncos (3-1) — New York is in freefall, starting 0-5 and now Beckham is done for the year. Maybe getting away from home will help. Giants’ last three losses are by 3-2-5 points- they ran for 152 yards LW, a positive step after averaging 59.3 ypg in first four games. Big Blue is 3-3-1 as road underdogs under McAdoo. Denver is 3-0 at home, winning by 3-25-6 points; since 2014, they’re 9-11-1 as a home favorite. Over is 3-1 in their four games. Four of five Giant games went over total. Denver won/covered six of last seven post-bye games. Giants lost four of five visits to Denver, losing last three by 14-11-20 points- their lone win in Mile High City was in ’89. This is first time since Manning retired that Denver is a double digit favorite.
Packers (4-1) @ Vikings (3-2) — Keenum played QB in 2nd half of Monday nite’s win in Chicago; Vikings haven’t allowed a first half TD in last three games (outscored foes 31-8 )- they held last two opponents under 300 yards, last three opponents to 17 or less points. Minnesota is 12-3 in its last 15 games as a home underdog, 5-2 under Zimmer. Pack scored 35-35 points in last two games; Rodgers won game LW 35-31 in Dallas with last-minute drive- Green Bay is 9-7 vs spread in last 16 games as a road favorite, 5-2 in last 7 games on artificial turf. Last four GB games went over total. Green Bay is 11-3-1 in last 15 series games; they won 3 of last 4 visits to Twin Cities, but lost 17-14 in first visit to the Vikings’ new dome LY.
Lions (3-2) @ Saints (2-2) — Detroit won last three series games, by 1-8-15 points; they beat Saints here the last two years, 35-27/28-13. Lions are 2-0 on road, beating Giants/Vikings, but they lost last two home games; Detroit is just 11-39 on 3rd down last three weeks- they’ve run 65 times for 218 yards (72.7 ypg) in last three games. New Orleans is 6-1-1 vs spread in its last eight post-bye games. Saints are playing only 2nd home game- they allowed total of 13 points winning last two games after an 0-2 start. NO is 5-13-1 in its last 19 games as a home favorite. NFC North teams are 8-6 vs spread outside their division, 2-1 as road dogs. NFC South teams are 6-8 vs spread, 2-3 as home favorites.
Patriots (3-2) @ Jets (3-2) — Teams are in 3-way tie with Buffalo atop AFC East. Patriots are 10-2 in last 12 series games, with both losses in OT- teams split last four meetings played here. Pats won last meeting 41-3 LY. Extra prep time for NE after Thursday night win; they’re 2-0 on foreign soil, winning 36-20 in Superdome, 19-14 in Tampa LW, first game this year Patriots held an opponent under 7.6 ypa. Jets won three in row after an 0-2 start, they’re 12-5 vs spread in last 17 games as a home underdog. Gang Green held opponents to 13 points on their last six red zone drives, but that was vs sub-par NFL QB’s (Bortles-Kizer-Hogan). NE is 8-1 in last nine games as a road favorite- they have 25 plays of 20+ yards, #2 in NFL behind Rams’ 29.
49ers (0-5) @ Redskins (2-2) — Kyle Shanahan worked for Redskins with his dad from 2010-13; his 49ers lost in OT the last two weeks. Since 1997, favorites that lost the previous two weeks in OT are 4-2-1 vs spread in that 3rd game. Niners may be 0-5, but their last four losses were by 3-2-3-3 points- they’re 2-1 as road dogs. This is also their 3rd week in row on road, a historic soft spot for road teams. 49ers won last four series games, taking last two played here. Redskins’ last series win was in ’05. Redskins are 2-7 in last nine post-bye games; favorites covered 9 of their last 10 post-bye games. Washington is favored for first time this year; since 2013, they’re 5-10 vs spread as a home favorite.
Bears (2-3) @ Ravens (3-2) — Trubisky was 13-26/159 passing in his NFL debut Monday night, throwing key INT in last 3:00 that cost Bears the game, but he was OK. This is his first road start- he started only 13 college games at North Carolina. Chicago is 12-36 on 3rd their last three games; they’re 0-2 on road, losing 29-7 (+7) in Tampa, 35-14 (+7) in Green Bay- they’re 12-17-1 vs spread in last 30 games as a road underdog. Ravens scored 20+ in their three wins, with a +8 TO ratio- they scored 7-9 in losses, with -5 TO ratio. Baltimore is 5-3 vs spread in its last eight games as a home favorite. Bears are 3-2 in last five series games; home side won four of last five meetings. Ravens lost 23-20 in OT in last visit here, in 2013.
Browns (0-5) @ Texans (2-3) — Cleveland switched to Stanford alum Hogan at QB in 2nd half vs Jets LW- he led them on two TD drives in a 17-14 loss. Browns lost 24-10 (+7.5) at Baltimore, 31-28 (-1) at Indy in their two road games; they’re 6-11 vs spread in last 17 games as a road dog. Houston scored 33-57-34 points in last three games behind rookie QB Watson, but lost 2 of the 3; they allowed 29+ points in their three losses, 9-14 in their wins. Under O’Brien, Houston is 12-5-1 as a home favorite. Texans won five of last six series games, last of which was in 2014; Browns lost last three visits here, by 3-8-18 points. JJ Watt/Mercilus both need surgery for their injuries, big blow to the Houston defense. Since ’09, Texans are 5-3 as a double digit favorite.
Buccaneers (2-2) @ Cardinals (2-3) — Arizona is 2-3 with wins by 3 points each over Colts/49ers; their losses are by 12-11-27 points- they scored two TD’s on 23 drives in their last two games, scored 14.5 ppg in last four games. Dirk Koetter returns to Phoenix (was ASU’s coach from 2001-06); his Bucs got crushed 40-7 in Week 2 here LY, Bucs’ 3rd loss in last four visits to desert- teams split last eight series games. Cardinals are 4-3 as home underdogs under Arians, 16-10 since ’07. Tampa Bay (-2.5) lost 34-17 at Minnesota, in its only road game, first time in four years they were road favorite. Bucs are 5-4 SU on road under Koetter. NFC West teams are 3-9 vs spread outside their division. NFC South teams are 6-8 vs spread, 4-5 when favored.
Rams (3-2) @ Jaguars (3-2) — Two teams having surprising success under new leadership. Jags ran ball for 155+ yards in 4 of their 5 games; their wins are by 22-37-21 points. Jags are +11 in turnovers in those three games, -1 in their two losses, giving up 37-23 points- their defense scored 3 TD’s in their last two games, same as their offense. LA scored 41-35 points in winning its two road games, throwing ball for 10.4/6.8 ypa. Rams lost 13-10 to division rival Seattle LW; they’re -5 in turnovers in two losses, +4 in three wins. Home team won all four series games; Rams lost 23-20 in OT in only visit here, in 2009. NFC West teams are 3-9 vs spread outside their division, 1-6 on road. AFC South teams are 6-5 vs spread outside their division.
Steelers (3-2) @ Chiefs (5-0) — KC is best team in NFL right now, scoring 17 TD’s, trying 12 FG’s on 52 drives; none of their wins have been by less than 7 points. Under Andy Reid, Chiefs are 15-17 vs spread as home favorites, 2-0 this year. Pittsburgh is a road underdog for first time in three years; Steelers lost 2 of last 3 games, throwing five INTs in 30-9 home loss to Jaguars LW. Steelers won five of last six series games; they beat KC 18-16 here in LY’s playoffs, after crushing Chiefs 43-14 in Heinz Field during season. All five Steeler games stayed under the total; over is 3-0-2 in Chief games. Roethlisberger had one of his worst games LW, throwing five INTs with no TD’s- two of his INTs were run back for TD’s. He figures to bounce back here.
Chargers (1-4) @ Raiders (2-3) — Oakland lost its last three games, scoring 10-10-17 points; their QB has a broken back, his backup lost his last six NFL starts and the defense has zero turnovers in their last two games. Raiders are 5-6 vs spread as home favorites under Del Rio. Chargers got their first win LW; four of their five games were decided by 5 or less points. Bolts are 2-0 as road underdogs this year; since ’08, they’re 30-17-2 as road dogs- four of their five games this year went over total. Oakland won last four series games, last three all by 3 points; Chargers lost 23-20ot/34-31 in last two visits here. NFL-wide, home favorites are 5-8-1 vs spread in division games. Raiders’ team total stayed under in four of their five games.
Giants (0-5) @ Broncos (3-1) — New York is in freefall, starting 0-5 and now Beckham is done for the year. Maybe getting away from home will help. Giants’ last three losses are by 3-2-5 points- they ran for 152 yards LW, a positive step after averaging 59.3 ypg in first four games. Big Blue is 3-3-1 as road underdogs under McAdoo. Denver is 3-0 at home, winning by 3-25-6 points; since 2014, they’re 9-11-1 as a home favorite. Over is 3-1 in their four games. Four of five Giant games went over total. Denver won/covered six of last seven post-bye games. Giants lost four of five visits to Denver, losing last three by 14-11-20 points- their lone win in Mile High City was in ’89. This is first time since Manning retired that Denver is a double digit favorite.
NFL Underdogs: Week 6 Picks and Predictions
Last week: 0-2-1 ATS
Season: 6-8-1 ATS
I feel lucky to escape Week 5 of the NFL season with a 0-2-1 ATS record for my underdog picks.
After completely missing the mark with the Cardinals +6.5 at Philadelphia and then sweating out the 49ers +2 in a 26-23 overtime loss in Indianapolis, I welcomed a push with Chicago +3 on Monday Night Football – a spread which moved to Bears +4 by kickoff, throwing some salt in the wound.
It wasn’t a very good result, considering I was 4-2 ATS the previous two weeks. But, hey… at least I had a better Week 5 than Ben Roethlisberger.
The Steelers veteran quarterback threw five interceptions – two for return touchdowns – in an embarrassing 30-9 home loss to the Jaguars Sunday. Pittsburgh was a 7.5-point favorite for that game, and now heads to dreaded Arrowhead Stadium for a run-in with the undefeated Kansas City Chiefs – a team that is a perfect 5-0 against the spread. Oddsmakers are giving Big Ben & Co. five points on the road.
Any other QB in this situation would be crapping in their Under Armour, but not Roethlisberger. Not after what he’s done to the Chiefs throughout his career.
Roethlisberger is a perfect 6-0 SU versus KC in games in which he’s gone wire-to-wire (he was injured midway their Week 11 2009 meeting at Arrowhead), posting a 4-2 ATS mark in those contests. According to ESPN stats and info, Ben owns a career regular season passer rating of 118.7 against the Chiefs with a total of 13 touchdowns to only three interceptions.
Kansas City limps into Week 6 with injuries to starters following a brutal 42-34 win over Houston Sunday night, most notably WR Chris Conley (Achilles) and TE Travis Kelce (concussion) – two of Alex Smith’s favorite targets.
The Chiefs’ explosive offense – ranked tops in the NFL with 32.8 ppg – has been able to pick up the slack for a crumby defense, which is allowing 366 yards per outing (27th) including an average of 248 passing yards. Kansas City is giving up a NFL-high 13.6 yards per completion and now faces a big-play Steelers offense anxious to find pay dirt after generating only nine points in Week 5.
Roethlisberger and the offense have underachieved compared to past standards, but have faced some formidable stop units through the first five weeks: Cleveland (5th total yards/19th vs pass), Minnesota (7th in total yards/20th vs. pass), Chicago (6th total yards/8th vs. pass), Baltimore (16th total yards/9th vs. pass), Jacksonville (14th total yards/3rd vs. pass).
With Big Ben bound to bounce back against his favorite foe, I’m taking the points on Pittsburgh in Week 6.
Pick: Steelers +5
Cleveland Browns at Houston Texans (-10, 46.5)
There are a number of hefty spreads on the Week 6 board. The Dolphins are getting +11.5 in Atlanta, the Jets are 9.5-point pups hosting New England, the Niners are 10-point pups at Washington, and the Giants are at +11.5 and climbing in Denver. And then we have the Cleveland Browns getting 10 points in Houston for a 1 p.m. ET kickoff.
The Texans come into this game receiving a lot more credit from oddsmakers than they deserve. Yes, Houston has played some good teams tough, taking the Patriots to the brink and making the Chiefs sweat in the fourth quarter on Sunday night. But in the end, they’re a 2-3 club with wins over Cincinnati and Tennessee (two other 2-3 teams).
Houston is primed for a massive letdown game after facing the undefeated Chiefs in primetime, and with a much-needed bye week on the horizon. The Texans had their hearts ripped out on defense with a season-ending injury to J.J. Watt as well as losing top pass-rushing linebacker Whitney Mercilus for the remainder of the year.
Cleveland is going with its 28th different starter at quarterback since 1999 when Kevin “Hollywood” Hogan gets the football in Week 6. Hogan came in at half in the loss to the Jets in Week 5 and instantly injected life into the Browns offense nearly erasing another craptacular performance from rookie DeShone Kizer.
Hogan went 16 for 19 for 130 yards, a touchdown and an interception while scrambling for another 30 yards on four carries. He’s done well in his limited action in 2017: 377 passing yards, three TDs, two INTS, and a QB rating of 104.8 – which is actually a tick better than Aaron Rodgers (wink wink).
I'm betting on a letdown from the Texans and a steady performance from “Hollywood” Hogan.
HIT THE MUSIC!
Pick: Browns +10
Los Angeles Rams at Jacksonville Jaguars (-2.5, 42.5)
We already touched on the 3-2 Jaguars’ one-sided Week 5 win over the Steelers above. But what we haven’t talked about is how Jacksonville has responded to those wins.
The Jags followed a Week 1 victory over Houston with a loss to Tennessee, then went on to soundly beat Baltimore in London before losing to the Jets in Week 4 – failing to cover the spread in both of those defeats. Jacksonville faces the mother of all letdown spots at home in Week 6.
The Rams literally gave away a win at home to Seattle Sunday. Los Angeles coughed the ball up five times – two INTs and three lost fumbles – losing 16-10 as 2-point home chalk despite outgaining the Seahawks 325-241 in offensive yardage. On top of that, Los Angeles whiffed on all four trips inside the red zone including a dropped touchdown pass on what would have been a game-tying score in the dying seconds.
But while the offense stalled (an offense still averaging 30.4 ppg), the defense seemed to find its familiar form. The Rams were solid against the run and pestered Russell Wilson for three sacks, countless hurries, and held him to just 65 percent completions. They also had two interceptions – one off Wilson and the other off WR Tanner McEvory on a trick play.
The Rams have thrived on the road so far, with a win at San Francisco but most notably a come-from-behind victory at Dallas in Week 4. The Jaguars haven’t been sharp in front of the North Florida faithful, boasting a 2-5 ATS count in their last seven home games.
Pick: Rams +3
Last week: 0-2-1 ATS
Season: 6-8-1 ATS
I feel lucky to escape Week 5 of the NFL season with a 0-2-1 ATS record for my underdog picks.
After completely missing the mark with the Cardinals +6.5 at Philadelphia and then sweating out the 49ers +2 in a 26-23 overtime loss in Indianapolis, I welcomed a push with Chicago +3 on Monday Night Football – a spread which moved to Bears +4 by kickoff, throwing some salt in the wound.
It wasn’t a very good result, considering I was 4-2 ATS the previous two weeks. But, hey… at least I had a better Week 5 than Ben Roethlisberger.
The Steelers veteran quarterback threw five interceptions – two for return touchdowns – in an embarrassing 30-9 home loss to the Jaguars Sunday. Pittsburgh was a 7.5-point favorite for that game, and now heads to dreaded Arrowhead Stadium for a run-in with the undefeated Kansas City Chiefs – a team that is a perfect 5-0 against the spread. Oddsmakers are giving Big Ben & Co. five points on the road.
Any other QB in this situation would be crapping in their Under Armour, but not Roethlisberger. Not after what he’s done to the Chiefs throughout his career.
Roethlisberger is a perfect 6-0 SU versus KC in games in which he’s gone wire-to-wire (he was injured midway their Week 11 2009 meeting at Arrowhead), posting a 4-2 ATS mark in those contests. According to ESPN stats and info, Ben owns a career regular season passer rating of 118.7 against the Chiefs with a total of 13 touchdowns to only three interceptions.
Kansas City limps into Week 6 with injuries to starters following a brutal 42-34 win over Houston Sunday night, most notably WR Chris Conley (Achilles) and TE Travis Kelce (concussion) – two of Alex Smith’s favorite targets.
The Chiefs’ explosive offense – ranked tops in the NFL with 32.8 ppg – has been able to pick up the slack for a crumby defense, which is allowing 366 yards per outing (27th) including an average of 248 passing yards. Kansas City is giving up a NFL-high 13.6 yards per completion and now faces a big-play Steelers offense anxious to find pay dirt after generating only nine points in Week 5.
Roethlisberger and the offense have underachieved compared to past standards, but have faced some formidable stop units through the first five weeks: Cleveland (5th total yards/19th vs pass), Minnesota (7th in total yards/20th vs. pass), Chicago (6th total yards/8th vs. pass), Baltimore (16th total yards/9th vs. pass), Jacksonville (14th total yards/3rd vs. pass).
With Big Ben bound to bounce back against his favorite foe, I’m taking the points on Pittsburgh in Week 6.
Pick: Steelers +5
Cleveland Browns at Houston Texans (-10, 46.5)
There are a number of hefty spreads on the Week 6 board. The Dolphins are getting +11.5 in Atlanta, the Jets are 9.5-point pups hosting New England, the Niners are 10-point pups at Washington, and the Giants are at +11.5 and climbing in Denver. And then we have the Cleveland Browns getting 10 points in Houston for a 1 p.m. ET kickoff.
The Texans come into this game receiving a lot more credit from oddsmakers than they deserve. Yes, Houston has played some good teams tough, taking the Patriots to the brink and making the Chiefs sweat in the fourth quarter on Sunday night. But in the end, they’re a 2-3 club with wins over Cincinnati and Tennessee (two other 2-3 teams).
Houston is primed for a massive letdown game after facing the undefeated Chiefs in primetime, and with a much-needed bye week on the horizon. The Texans had their hearts ripped out on defense with a season-ending injury to J.J. Watt as well as losing top pass-rushing linebacker Whitney Mercilus for the remainder of the year.
Cleveland is going with its 28th different starter at quarterback since 1999 when Kevin “Hollywood” Hogan gets the football in Week 6. Hogan came in at half in the loss to the Jets in Week 5 and instantly injected life into the Browns offense nearly erasing another craptacular performance from rookie DeShone Kizer.
Hogan went 16 for 19 for 130 yards, a touchdown and an interception while scrambling for another 30 yards on four carries. He’s done well in his limited action in 2017: 377 passing yards, three TDs, two INTS, and a QB rating of 104.8 – which is actually a tick better than Aaron Rodgers (wink wink).
I'm betting on a letdown from the Texans and a steady performance from “Hollywood” Hogan.
HIT THE MUSIC!
Pick: Browns +10
Los Angeles Rams at Jacksonville Jaguars (-2.5, 42.5)
We already touched on the 3-2 Jaguars’ one-sided Week 5 win over the Steelers above. But what we haven’t talked about is how Jacksonville has responded to those wins.
The Jags followed a Week 1 victory over Houston with a loss to Tennessee, then went on to soundly beat Baltimore in London before losing to the Jets in Week 4 – failing to cover the spread in both of those defeats. Jacksonville faces the mother of all letdown spots at home in Week 6.
The Rams literally gave away a win at home to Seattle Sunday. Los Angeles coughed the ball up five times – two INTs and three lost fumbles – losing 16-10 as 2-point home chalk despite outgaining the Seahawks 325-241 in offensive yardage. On top of that, Los Angeles whiffed on all four trips inside the red zone including a dropped touchdown pass on what would have been a game-tying score in the dying seconds.
But while the offense stalled (an offense still averaging 30.4 ppg), the defense seemed to find its familiar form. The Rams were solid against the run and pestered Russell Wilson for three sacks, countless hurries, and held him to just 65 percent completions. They also had two interceptions – one off Wilson and the other off WR Tanner McEvory on a trick play.
The Rams have thrived on the road so far, with a win at San Francisco but most notably a come-from-behind victory at Dallas in Week 4. The Jaguars haven’t been sharp in front of the North Florida faithful, boasting a 2-5 ATS count in their last seven home games.
Pick: Rams +3
NHL Situational Betting
New York Islanders at Los Angeles Kings – The Islanders wrap up their California swing with a back-to-back against San Jose and Los Angeles. The Kings had three days off before Wednesday’s game against Calgary, two days off after that, and now this back-to-back. Again, I think flow and rhythm are so important early on in the season and this is a spot that should clearly benefit the Kings. We’ll see what kind of price we have to lay, but I’d be looking at the hosts in this one.
Boston Bruins at Vegas Golden Knights – Once again, we won’t get to see the full scope of Eastern Conference road teams playing in Vegas. The Bruins visit Arizona the night before and then head to Vegas. With Eastern Conference teams only coming to town once this season, not having the full home ice advantage of those teams sitting around and gambling, drinking, or taking in shows into the wee hours of the morning could be a detriment. There will be a lot of excitement for all of the early-season home games for the Knights, so maybe that helps with the home advantage. We’ll have to see how that dynamic plays out and we have three chances to see it this week.
New York Islanders at Los Angeles Kings – The Islanders wrap up their California swing with a back-to-back against San Jose and Los Angeles. The Kings had three days off before Wednesday’s game against Calgary, two days off after that, and now this back-to-back. Again, I think flow and rhythm are so important early on in the season and this is a spot that should clearly benefit the Kings. We’ll see what kind of price we have to lay, but I’d be looking at the hosts in this one.
Boston Bruins at Vegas Golden Knights – Once again, we won’t get to see the full scope of Eastern Conference road teams playing in Vegas. The Bruins visit Arizona the night before and then head to Vegas. With Eastern Conference teams only coming to town once this season, not having the full home ice advantage of those teams sitting around and gambling, drinking, or taking in shows into the wee hours of the morning could be a detriment. There will be a lot of excitement for all of the early-season home games for the Knights, so maybe that helps with the home advantage. We’ll have to see how that dynamic plays out and we have three chances to see it this week.
ESPN's Adam Schefter reports Ty Montgomery (ribs) is expected to play in Week 6 against the Vikings.
Per Schefter, Montgomery is "not expected to be limited going in," although what that exactly means is unclear as he deals with multiple rib fractures and Aaron Jones returns from a Week 5 breakout game. Montgomery is expected to wear protection on his still-hurting ribs, possibly a flak jacket. In season-long leagues, Montgomery would be an extremely high-risk flex option. Montgomery's return also lowers Jones' reliability, although if forced to choose between the two, Jones would be the superior fantasy bet.
Per Schefter, Montgomery is "not expected to be limited going in," although what that exactly means is unclear as he deals with multiple rib fractures and Aaron Jones returns from a Week 5 breakout game. Montgomery is expected to wear protection on his still-hurting ribs, possibly a flak jacket. In season-long leagues, Montgomery would be an extremely high-risk flex option. Montgomery's return also lowers Jones' reliability, although if forced to choose between the two, Jones would be the superior fantasy bet.
The Baltimore Sun reports Terrance West (calf) is expected to miss multiple games.
West is already ruled out for Sunday. His calf injury wasn't considered serious, but he's likely going to sit at least another game after a full week of missed practice. The Ravens are going with a committee of Buck Allen and Alex Collins.
West is already ruled out for Sunday. His calf injury wasn't considered serious, but he's likely going to sit at least another game after a full week of missed practice. The Ravens are going with a committee of Buck Allen and Alex Collins.
Soccer
Germany - Bundesliga
12pm ET
Werder Bremen v Mgladbach
Referee: Markus Schmidt
Last Head-to-heads at Werder Bremen:
0-1 (Mgladbach win)
2-1 (Werder Bremen Win)
0-2 (Mgladbach win)
1-1
Recent Form:
Werder Breme: 0-2-4
Mgladbach: 2-2-2
KEY STAT: Gladbach's three away games this season have produced 15 goals
EXPERT VERDICT: Monchengladbach have conceded 19 goals in their last seven away games in the Bundesliga, something that should encourage winless Bremen. And they could do with some encouraging having failed to win any of their first seven, a start every bit as slow as last term's. Bremen have at least stopped the bleeding by drawing four of their last five.
RECOMMENDATION: Draw (1)
Germany - Bundesliga
12pm ET
Werder Bremen v Mgladbach
Referee: Markus Schmidt
Last Head-to-heads at Werder Bremen:
0-1 (Mgladbach win)
2-1 (Werder Bremen Win)
0-2 (Mgladbach win)
1-1
Recent Form:
Werder Breme: 0-2-4
Mgladbach: 2-2-2
KEY STAT: Gladbach's three away games this season have produced 15 goals
EXPERT VERDICT: Monchengladbach have conceded 19 goals in their last seven away games in the Bundesliga, something that should encourage winless Bremen. And they could do with some encouraging having failed to win any of their first seven, a start every bit as slow as last term's. Bremen have at least stopped the bleeding by drawing four of their last five.
RECOMMENDATION: Draw (1)
Soccer
Belgium - Division 1
12pm ET
Oostende v Club Brugge
Referee: Nicolas Laforge
Last Head-to-heads at Oostende:
2-1 (Oostende win)
1-0 (Oostende win)
0-1 (Club Brugge win)
0-2 (Club Brugge win)
Recent Form:
Oostende; 1-3-2
Club Brugge: 4-2
KEY STAT: Both teams have scored in six of Brugge’s last eight league games
EXPERT VERDICT: After losing their opening five league games, Oostende have steadied the ship. They should also be confident having won their last two league showdowns with Brugge at the Versluys Arena. Brugge, who have suffered Champions League and Europa League exits this season, are top of the league but struggling to keep clean sheets.
RECOMMENDATION: Both Teams to Score (1)
Belgium - Division 1
12pm ET
Oostende v Club Brugge
Referee: Nicolas Laforge
Last Head-to-heads at Oostende:
2-1 (Oostende win)
1-0 (Oostende win)
0-1 (Club Brugge win)
0-2 (Club Brugge win)
Recent Form:
Oostende; 1-3-2
Club Brugge: 4-2
KEY STAT: Both teams have scored in six of Brugge’s last eight league games
EXPERT VERDICT: After losing their opening five league games, Oostende have steadied the ship. They should also be confident having won their last two league showdowns with Brugge at the Versluys Arena. Brugge, who have suffered Champions League and Europa League exits this season, are top of the league but struggling to keep clean sheets.
RECOMMENDATION: Both Teams to Score (1)
Soccer
Spain - La Liga
12:30pm ET
Malaga v Leganes
Referee: Jose Luiz Gonzalez
Last Head-to-Heads at Malaga:
4-0 (Malaga win)
Recent Form:
Malaga: 0-5-1
Leganes: 2-2-2
KEY STAT: Malaga have lost six of their seven La Liga games this season
EXPERT VERDICT: Woeful Malaga have picked up just one point this season and they are no certainties to justify a short price against Leganes. La Liga survival is the number one objective for the Madrid minnows but they're riding high in the top half of the table following three wins from their opening seven games. One of those came away from home and it's worth taking a chance on them to upset the odds at La Rosaleda.
RECOMMENDATION Leganes (1)
Spain - La Liga
12:30pm ET
Malaga v Leganes
Referee: Jose Luiz Gonzalez
Last Head-to-Heads at Malaga:
4-0 (Malaga win)
Recent Form:
Malaga: 0-5-1
Leganes: 2-2-2
KEY STAT: Malaga have lost six of their seven La Liga games this season
EXPERT VERDICT: Woeful Malaga have picked up just one point this season and they are no certainties to justify a short price against Leganes. La Liga survival is the number one objective for the Madrid minnows but they're riding high in the top half of the table following three wins from their opening seven games. One of those came away from home and it's worth taking a chance on them to upset the odds at La Rosaleda.
RECOMMENDATION Leganes (1)
Soccer
Italy - Serie A
2:45pm ET
Inter v Milan
Last Head-To-Heads at Inter;
2-2
1-0 (Inter win)
0-0
1-0 (Inter win)
Recent Form:
Inter: 5-0-1
Milan: 3-2
KEY STAT: The "away" team have not won any of the last nine Milan derbies
EXPERT VERDICT: Inter have looked a much improved side this season and can stay up with the early from runners by beating city rivals Milan at the San Siro. The Nerazzurri have won all three of this season's home games without conceding a goal, but much more importantly have been far more consistent than Milan, who are trying to avoid a third successive league defeat.
RECOMMENDATION: Inter (1)
Italy - Serie A
2:45pm ET
Inter v Milan
Last Head-To-Heads at Inter;
2-2
1-0 (Inter win)
0-0
1-0 (Inter win)
Recent Form:
Inter: 5-0-1
Milan: 3-2
KEY STAT: The "away" team have not won any of the last nine Milan derbies
EXPERT VERDICT: Inter have looked a much improved side this season and can stay up with the early from runners by beating city rivals Milan at the San Siro. The Nerazzurri have won all three of this season's home games without conceding a goal, but much more importantly have been far more consistent than Milan, who are trying to avoid a third successive league defeat.
RECOMMENDATION: Inter (1)
Soccer
Spain - La Liga
2:45pm ET
Real Betis v Valencia
Last head-to-heads at Real betis:
0-0
1-0 (Real Betis win)
3-1 (Real betis win)
1-0 (Real Betis win)
Recent Form:
Real Betis: 4-1-1
Valencia: 3-0-3
KEY STAT: Matches involving Real Betis average 3.57 goals this season
EXPERT VERDICT: Real Betis and Valencia have designs on bettering last season's finishing positions after making strong starts to the season and these two attacking sides could serve up a thriller in Seville. Valencia's three away matches have produced 11 goals this season while fixtures involving Betis have featured the second-most of any La Liga team.
RECOMMENDATION: Both Teams to Score (3)
Spain - La Liga
2:45pm ET
Real Betis v Valencia
Last head-to-heads at Real betis:
0-0
1-0 (Real Betis win)
3-1 (Real betis win)
1-0 (Real Betis win)
Recent Form:
Real Betis: 4-1-1
Valencia: 3-0-3
KEY STAT: Matches involving Real Betis average 3.57 goals this season
EXPERT VERDICT: Real Betis and Valencia have designs on bettering last season's finishing positions after making strong starts to the season and these two attacking sides could serve up a thriller in Seville. Valencia's three away matches have produced 11 goals this season while fixtures involving Betis have featured the second-most of any La Liga team.
RECOMMENDATION: Both Teams to Score (3)
Soccer
French - Ligue 1
3pm ET
Strasbourg v Marseille
Last head-to-heads at Strasbourg:
0-0
0-1 (Marseille win)
1-0 (Strasbourg win)
4-1 (Strasbourg win)
Recent Form:
Strasbourg: 0-4-2
marseille: 4-2
KEY STAT: Marseille have lost just one of their last ten away league games
EXPERT VERDICT: Newly-promoted Strasbourg have struggled since their early-season triumph against ten-man Lille and they look set for a third straight home league defeat when they host improving Marseille. OM have seemingly put last season’s road woes behind them - their only away defeat has come at champions Monaco - and a reproduction of their latest 4-2 win at Nice should be enough to sink the toiling hosts, who have scored just five league goals this term.
RECOMMENDATION: Marseille (2)
French - Ligue 1
3pm ET
Strasbourg v Marseille
Last head-to-heads at Strasbourg:
0-0
0-1 (Marseille win)
1-0 (Strasbourg win)
4-1 (Strasbourg win)
Recent Form:
Strasbourg: 0-4-2
marseille: 4-2
KEY STAT: Marseille have lost just one of their last ten away league games
EXPERT VERDICT: Newly-promoted Strasbourg have struggled since their early-season triumph against ten-man Lille and they look set for a third straight home league defeat when they host improving Marseille. OM have seemingly put last season’s road woes behind them - their only away defeat has come at champions Monaco - and a reproduction of their latest 4-2 win at Nice should be enough to sink the toiling hosts, who have scored just five league goals this term.
RECOMMENDATION: Marseille (2)
