5* Wiseguy MLB *BEST BET* Blowout on Tigers -166

Bottom Line: The Twins are 0-5 in Gibson's last 5 starts and 0-5 in his last 5 home starts.  He's given up 4 runs or more in 5 of his last 7 starts.  He also has an ERA of 7.24 in 3 starts against Detroit this season.  Price has a 3.30 ERA and a 1.072 WHIP on the season, including a 2.73 road ERA and a 0.949 road WHIP.  His WHIP is significant because Minnesota is just 1-20 this season versus AL starters with a WHIP of 1.100 or lower.  Price is 2-0 against the Twins this season, limiting them to 3 runs in 17 innings.  The Twins managed a win yesterday but are 0-6 in their last 6 games following a win.  Pound Detroit.

5* Wiseguy MLB Underdog Game of the Year on Mariners +116

Bottom Line: Expect a letdown from the Angels after becoming the first team in baseball to clinch a playoff spot.  Seattle will play like the more desperate team as it trails Kansas City by 2 games for the 2nd wild card slot.  The Mariners also hold the edge on the mound with Elias, who has posted a 2.08 ERA over his last 9 starts.  Rasmus isn't a starter but will make his 4th straight start.  He hasn't made it past 3 1-3 innings in his first three starts.  Another early exit will place a lot of pressure on the pen, but don't be surprised if Scioscia gives him a longer leash in this one with it being a 4-game series and not wanting to tax his pen early in the series.  That bodes well for us.  The Mariners have dropped their last 2 versus the Angels but are 12-3 this season in road games when playing with double revenge.  Pound Seattle.

4* Major MLB *BLOOD BATH* on Giants -120

Bottom Line: The Giants fell 3 games back in the NL West after losing their last 2 to the Dodgers, and they'll be hungry here as a result.  Miley has struggled all season, especially at home where he has a 6.13 ERA.  The Diamondbacks are 0-7 in Miley's last 7 starts, 0-5 in his last 5 starts as an underdog, 0-5 in his last 5 starts on 5 days' rest, 0-4 in his last 4 series-opening starts, 0-4 in his last 4 division starts, 0-4 in his last 4 starts versus winning teams and 0-4 in his last 4 starts as a home dog of +110 to +150.  The Diamondbacks are 0-5 in their last 5 home games versus a team with a winning record and 0-4 in their last 4 games against the Giants.  Bet San Francisco.

5* Wiseguy MNF *BEST BET* on Colts -3

Bottom Line: One thing you can't do is go against Andrew Luck following a loss.  Since taking over as QB of the Colts, they are an unbeaten 10-0 straight up and ATS off a defeat in the regular season.  Last season they crushed the 49ers by 20 on the road and beat Denver by 6 at home following losses.  These are clearly 2 of the best teams in the NFL.  The Eagles only won 1 game against playoff teams last season.  That was against Green Bay, which was playing without Aaron Rodgers.  Philadelphia's O-line is in bad shape.  The Eagles benefited from having the same O-line for 17 games last season but will struggle here against a good team without the unit in tact.  Additionally, the Colts are an unbeaten 7-0 ATS the last 3 seasons following a loss on the road and have won these contests by 8.1 points on average.  They are 6-0 ATS at home during this span after giving up 30 points or more in their last game and have won by an average of 8.0 points in this situation.  Pound Indy.

4* Major Sunday Night Football *SUREFIRE* on Bears +7

Bottom Line: I expect to see a completely different Bears team in San Francisco Sunday evening.  The Bears stunk it up at home in Week 1, and they haven't forgotten the beating they took the last time they visited San Francisco.  They will be extremely motivated.  The Bears have too much offensive talent to be getting this kind of disrespect from oddsmakers.  The 49ers are offensively challenged at times and were outgained by 63 yards in Dallas last week.  The difference was their +4 turnover margin.  Turnovers cost the Bears last week, and I expect to see much better decision making from Jay Cutler.  This is a huge game for Chicago given how tough its schedule is going forward, and I expect it to respond.

4* Major ESPN Sunday Night Baseball *SUREFIRE* on Orioles -125

Bottom Line: The Orioles are showing value as a small favorite with Tillman on the hill.  They are 9-0 in his last 9 starts.  The Yankees won Saturday, but Baltimore is 7-0 this season when giving the ball to Tillman following a loss.  Also, the O's are 8-0 all-time in Tillman's 2nd half of  the season home starts versus clubs carrying a win percentage of 51-54%.  The Yankees are 5-14 in Kuroda's last 19 road starts and 0-4 in his last 4 starts as an underdog of +110 to +150.  Baltimore has won 10 of 14 in the season series and should take care of business again tonight.

5* Wiseguy NFL Non-Conference GAME OF THE YEAR on Chargers +6

Bottom Line: Because Seattle rolled at home in the Week 1 opener and because it has had extra rest, we are getting a great line.  Seattle isn't the same team on the road where it is just 20-36 in the regular season the last 7 years.  San Diego, on the other hand, has been formidable at home where it is 45-19 the last 8 seasons.  The Chargers are 6-1 ATS in their last 7, 8-2 ATS in their last 10 following a loss, 8-3 ATS in their last 11 versus winning teams and 6-1 ATS in their last 7 after giving up more than 350 yards in their last game.  Pound San Diego.

4* Major NFL *ODDSMAKER ERROR* on Giants +3

Bottom Line: This is a letdown spot for Arizona as it heads on the road following Monday's thrilling comeback win against the Chargers.  This is a bounce back spot for the Giants, who were brutally embarrassed in Detroit.  Given the situation, the Giants shouldn't be catching points at home.  They are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games following a loss, 7-3 ATS in their last 10 versus NFC opponents and 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games when playing on Sunday following a Monday night game.  Bet New York.

4* Major *EARLY BLOWOUT* on Patriots -3

Bottom Line: No team bounces back better than the Patriots, who are 32-13-1 ATS in their last 46 games following a loss.  It can be tough playing on the road in back-to-back weeks, but the Pats are 11-2 ATS under Belichick in road games off a road loss.  They've won these contests by an average of 11.8 points.  I'm betting on Tom Brady and company to bounce back.

*Adrian Peterson is out and the line has adjusted, but I still like the Patriots laying 7 or less.

4* Major CFB BAILOUT BLOWOUT on Colorado +16

Bottom Line: Look for Colorado to blow this spread out of the water by taking the Sun Devils right down to the wire.  Colorado brings back 8 starters on each side of the ball while ASU returns only 8 starters total.  The Buffs also return 20 more lettermen than ASU.  Experience should serve Colorado well as conference home dogs of 10.5-21 points that return their QB and 8 or more offensive starters are 67-35 ATS the last 10 seasons.  ASU has put the hurt on the Buffs in recent years, but this is where they have their shot at revenge.
 

4* Major CFB *ODDSMAKER ERROR* on Rice +32

Bottom Line: Rice went to Texas A&M and lost by just 21 points last season.  Having had a bye week to prepare, I expect it to keep this one closer than the oddsmakers have projected.  These schools have played 5 times the last 22 years with all 5 meetings being decided by 28 points or less. The Owls are 7-3 ATS in their last 10 versus winning teams, 7-3 ATS in their last 10 non-conference contests and 11-5 ATS in their last 16 games following a loss of more than 20 points. Bet Rice.

4* Major NL West *MARQUEE MATCHUP* on Dodgers -115

Bottom Line: The Giants have been rolling, but seeing them in the underdog role throws up a red flag.  This is not a team that has performed well as a pup.  In fact, the Giants are 9-23 in their last 32 games as an underdog and 1-10 in their last 11 games as a home underdog.  The Dodgers have dominated in division play, going 27-9 in their last 36 NL West contests.  Greinke has been lights out against the division too with the Dodgers going 18-4 in his last 22 division starts.  He has a 1.82 ERA in 12 starts versus NL West opponents this season.  He's especially had his way with the Giants.  His clubs are 5-0 all-time in his starts against them, during which he's posted a 2.30 ERA.  Hudson has had a solid season but hasn't been as sharp as Greinke.  The Giants are 1-5 in Hudson's last 6 starts versus a team with a winning record.  Bet the Dodgers.

5* Wiseguy Non-Conference GAME OF THE YEAR on Boston College +17

Bottom Line: Look for USC to come out flat following a huge win over Stanford.  The Trojans defeated Boston College 35-7 last season and won't give the Eagles the focus they deserve as a result.  The Trojans are 5-12 ATS in their last 17 games following a win, 3-7 ATS in their last 10 non-conference games and 3-11 ATS in their last 14 road contests.  The Eagles are 8-3 ATS in their last 11 at home and 6-1 ATS in their last 7 games following a spread loss.  Pound BC.

4* Major CFB *UNDERDOG SHOCKER* on Bowling Green +7

Bottom Line: Bowling Green had this game circled heading into the season because it was embarrassed 42-10 at Indiana last season.  I love BG's chances for revenge.  Playing non-conference home underdogs of 3.5-10 points that completed 62% or more of their passes last season has resulted in an 8-0 ATS record the last 3 seasons.  Indiana is 0-12 ATS after outrushing an opponent by 200 or more yards in its last game the last 22 years.  Under coach Wilson, it is 0-6 ATS after a win by 17 points or more, 0-7 ATS after gaining 525 or more total yards in their previous game and 0-6 ATS after outgaining an opponent by 125 or more total yards in their previous game.  Bowling Green is 7-0 ATS the last 3 seasons after outrushing an opponent by 150 or more yards last game, 7-0 ATS the last 2 seasons after allowing 9 points or less last game, 6-0 ATS the last 2 seasons after a win by 21 or more points and 6-0 ATS the last 3 seasons after a game where they forced 3 or more turnovers.  Bet Bowling Green.

5* Wiseguy CFB *FRIDAY NIGHT FEAST* on Buffalo +36

Bottom Line: As if last week's disappointing performance at Army isn't enough motivation, the Bulls were clobbered 70-13 at Baylor last season.  They'll be looking to save a little face by keeping this once respectable and will put forth maximum effort to do so.  Baylor is riding high off a pair of lopsided wins but now hits the road for the first time and on a short week.  It also has the memory of last year's easy win over Buffalo in its mind so I don't expect it to give the Bulls its full attention.  QB Bryce Petty is expected back but he'll likely be a little out of rhythm and could have trouble finding chemistry with a new cast of receivers.  Injuries are expected to prevent 4 of Baylor's top playmakers from taking the field tonight.  Even if the Bears are able to get out to an early lead, I expect them to call off the dogs, leaving the backdoor wide open.  They know they have much more important games ahead.  Pound Buffalo.

4* Major MLB Smart Money Mismatch on Blue Jays -132

Bottom Line: Fading Tampa Bay's Nathan Karns, who had a 7.50 ERA in 3 starts for Washington last season and a 5.08 ERA in 27 Triple-A starts this season.  I expect him to struggle against a Toronto lineup that has averaged 6.44 runs over its last 9 games.  The Blue Jays are 4-0 in their last 4 overall, 5-0 in their last 5 home games, 6-0 in their last 6 home games versus a right-handed starter and 8-0 in their last 8 games on astroturf.  Happ has been good at home all season (3.42 ERA), and he's dominated the Rays in his last 2 starts against them.  The Jays are 3-0 in his last 3 starts versus Tampa Bay.  Bet Toronto.

4* Major NCAAF ESPN *PRIMETIME TOTAL* on Houston/BYU UNDER 58

Bottom Line: We saw a shootout with 93 total points scored in last season's meeting, and I expect both teams to tighten the screws defensively as a result.  BYU is 36-17 UNDER when the total is between 56.5 and 63 since 1992.  The Cougars are 7-0 UNDER after outrushing an opponent by 150 or more yards last game over the last 3 seasons.  Playing the UNDER on any team (BYU) that averages 190-230 rushing yards per game against a team that holds opponents to 100-140 rushing yards per game, in a non-conference matchup, has resulted in a 44-16 record the last 5 seasons.  Bet the UNDER.

5* Wiseguy NFL *PRIMETIME PUNISHER* on Ravens -1

Bottom Line: The Ravens are in a much better spot playing a home game off a home game in a short week.  It's much tougher going on the road in a short week.  Baltimore has won 4 of its last 6 in the series, and I believe it will be the more motivated side after falling to Cincinnati in Week 1.  The Ravens have been outstanding at home, going an amazing 39-10 in their last 49 regular-season home games.  Playing against road teams that scored 30 points or more last game that are up against a team that scored 3 points or less in the first half last game has resulted in an 80-41 ATS record the last 10 seasons.  Pound Baltimore.

4* Major NCAAF *SUREFIRE* on Louisiana Tech +4

Bottom Line: Playing against home teams in the first month of the season has resulted in a 60-25 ATS record the last 10 seasons if they allowed opponents to complete 58% or more of their passes last season.  North Texas won last season's meeting 28-13 despite being outgained and giving up 367 yards through the air because it finished the game +2 in turnover margin.  The Bulldogs led the game 10-0 but found themselves down 14-10 at the half after giving up a 56-yard pick-6 that really swung the momentum.  I look for the Bulldogs to take better care of the football this time around - they've only had 1 giveaway this season - and to have their revenge.

4* Major MLB *BLOOD BATH* on Nationals -113

Bottom Line: I'll gladly grab the Nats at this price against a club they've owned.  They are are 40-13 in the last 53 meetings, including 25-4 in the last 29 meetings in New York.  The Mets have been the worst home dog in baseball at 32-71 in their last 103 games in the role.  Roark has been better than Colon this season with an ERA 1 run lower.  Bet the Nats.

5* Wiseguy MLB *BEST BET* on Blue Jays -143

Bottom Line: Arrieta has posted a 7.15 ERA in his last four road outings, and I'm not hesitating to fade the Cubs with him on the hill here.  Chicago is 0-4 in its last 4 games, 0-4 in its last 4 games versus left-handed starters and 0-5 in its last 5 games when its opponent allows 2 runs or less in their previous game.  The Blue Jays are 6-0 in their last 6 interleague home games versus a team with a losing record, 4-0 in their last 4 home games versus a right-handed starter and 8-0 in Buehrle's last 8 starts when their opponent allows 5 runs or more in their previous game.  He has a 2.42 ERA over his last 7 starts against the Cubs, and his clubs are 4-0 in his last 4 home starts versus Chicago.  Pound Toronto.

4* Major Run Line Blowout on Dodgers -1.5 -107

Bottom Line: The Padres are 0-5 in their last 5, losing these by an average of 3.8 runs.  The Dodgers are 3-0 in their last 3, winning these by an average of 3.0 runs.  The Padres are 0-4 in Despaigne's last 4 NL road starts, losing these by an average of 2.0 runs.  He has a 5.68 ERA over his last 4 road starts.  The Dodgers are 16-1 in Kershaw's last 17 starts, including 8-0 in division starts during this span.  These 8 wins have come by 4.0 runs on average.  Bet LA on the run line.

5* Wiseguy MNF *BEST BET* on Lions -6

Bottom Line: The Lions will be the hungrier team tonight.  They were defeated at home in overtime in Week 16 by the Giants last season in a game they led by 7 points late in the 4th quarter.  They outgained the Giants 355 to 279 in the game and dominated the time of possession.  They should have won the contest, and I expect them to have their revenge.  While NY made improvements to the defensive side of the football, an offensive line that allowed Eli Manning to be sacked a career-high 39 times remains suspect, especially since free-agent pickup Geoff Schwartz will be out at least the first 7 games with a dislocated toe.  I expect Suh, Fairley and company to wreak havoc tonight.  Pound the Lions.

4* Major Sunday Night Football *BLOOD BATH* on Broncos -7.5

Bottom Line: The Broncos enter the season highly motivated following a pathetic showing in the Super Bowl.  A 39-33 loss at Indy last year should only add fuel to the fire.  Denver is 16-5 ATS as a favorite of 3.5-9.5 points under John Fox.  Additionally, playing against road underdogs of 3.5-10 points that has a winning record last season has resulted in an 18-4 ATS record the last 5 seasons.  For Manning, last year's defeat to his former club can't be sitting well.  Look for him to do something about it here.

5* Wiseguy NFC South Game of the Year on Buccaneers -2

Bottom Line: I love the Bucs in their season opener.  They have a coach (Lovie Smith) who has shown he can win in the National Football League, and I expect him to have them extremely well prepared.  Plus, Tampa will be extremely motivated by a pair of butt-kickings they received by Carolina last season.  The Bucs will be improved on both sides of the football, and they catch Carolina at the perfect time.  Cam Newton isn't healthy, and he has a new receiving corps to adjust to.  It takes time to build timing and chemistry, and I don't expect the Panthers to have it early.  The favorite is on a 6-1 ATS run in this series, and I look for this trend to continue.  Pound the Bucs.

4* Major NL East *SUREFIRE* on Nationals -133

Bottom Line: Despite wins in the 1st 2 games of this series, the Phillies are still only 6-14 in their last 20 in Washington.  Gio Gonzalez has been an awesome investment in this price range with his clubs going 74-33 all-time in his starts as a favorite of -110 or higher.  The Nationals are 4-0 in his last 4 starts as a home favorite of -110 to -150 and 30-11 in his last 41 starts versus losing teams.  The Nats are batting .264 versus lefty starters while the Phillies are hitting only .234 against them.  The Phillies are 1-5 in Hamels' last 6 starts in the 3rd of a series, 8-15 in his last 23 starts on 5 or 6 days' rest and 9-16 in his last 25 starts following a team win.  Bet the Nats.

4* Major Oddsmaker Error on Falcons +3

Bottom Line: The wrong team is favored here.  The Falcons went 4-12 last season but had 7 defeats of 7 points or fewer.  This series has been highly competitive with the home team holding the advantage.  The home side has won or lost by 3 points or less in 11 of the last 12 meetings so I feel really good about catching a field goal in this one.  The Falcons aren't used to losing, especially at home, so they'll be looking to send a message right out of the gate.

4* Major NFL *UNDERDOG SHOCKER* on Bills +7

Bottom Line: The Bills have a legit opportunity to shock a Bears team that is getting way too much respect from odds makers.  The Bears shined offensively in 2013 but ranked 30th in total defense and gave up a league-high 2,583 rushing yards.  The Bears are a weak 1-8-1 ATS in their last 10 home games. Underdogs of 3.5-10 points that won just 25-40% of their games last season are 24-5 ATS the last 5 seasons.  Grab the points.

4* Major "Total" Dominator on Mets/Reds UNDER 7.0

Bottom Line: Look for a pitcher's duel between Gee and Cueto to result in the UNDER here.  Gee has been at his best in the daylight, going 4-0 with a 2.31 ERA in 7 day starts this season.  Cueto's been even better, going 8-2 with a 1.70 ERA in 13 day starts.  The Under is 41-15-3 in the Mets' last 59 versus the National League Central and 10-4-1 in Gee's last 15 starts overall.  The Under is 36-14-3 in Cueto's last 53 starts with the total set at 7.0-8.5 and 11-4-1 in his last 16 home starts.  Bet the UNDER.

4* Major Non-Conference Blowout on Northwestern -7

Bottom Line: Look for Northwestern to respond following last week's upset home loss to Cal.  NIU looked strong against Presbyterian but takes a big step up in class here.  The Huskies are 0-3-1 ATS in their last 4 games after allowing less than 275 total yards in their previous game and 2-8 ATS in their last 10 games on grass.  The Wildcats are 7-3 ATS in their last 10 non-conference contests.  Bet Northwestern.

4* Major Oddsmaker Error on Navy -3

Bottom Line: Temple, which won only 2 games last season, looks to be improved, but I'll gladly lay a field goal with Navy.  The Owls kicked Vanderbilt last week, but the Commodores really helped them out with 7 turnovers.  Navy's not going to cough it up like that.  Navy's ground game was strong against mighty Ohio State, racking up 370 yards on 63 carries, and I don't see Temple having an answer for it.  Playing against home teams in the first month of the season with just 5 offensive starters returning, provided they closed last season with at least 4 losses in their last 5 games, has resulted in a 35-11 ATS record the last 10 seasons.  This system is 13-2 ATS the last 3 seasons.

5* Wiseguy College Football Underdog Game of the Week on Iowa State +13

Bottom Line: Motivated by a 34-14 loss to FCS North Dakota State, and with last season's 41-7 defeat at K-State adding fuel to the fire, I expect a major response from Paul Rhoads' team.  K-State has won 6 straight in the series, but the previous 5 victories have come by 8 points or fewer.  The Cyclones have won or played the Wildcats to within 6 points or less in each of the last 4 meetings in Ames.  Home dogs of 10.5-21 points with 8 or more offensive starters returning including the QB are 40-12 ATS since 1992 following a game where they were outgained by 225 yards or more.  Pound the Cyclones.

5* Wiseguy NCAAF *FRIDAY NIGHT FEAST* on Washington State -3.5

Bottom Line: The Cougars will be hungry following a tough loss to Rutgers in their opener.  After dropping last year's opener to Auburn, Washington State bounced back strong with a win at Southern Cal.  I expect a similar response here.  The Cougars were a perfect 6-0 ATS in road games last season, and they are 6-0 ATS under Leach in road games after allowing 475 or more total yards.  Playing on any team in the first 2 weeks of the season that was a bowl team the previous season has resulted in a 30-9 ATS record the last 10 seasons if they lost their last 2 games the previous season and had a losing record.  Pound Washington State.

4* Major MLB TOTAL OF THE WEEK on Mariners/Rangers UNDER 8.5

Bottom Line: The Rangers will have a tough time scoring runs against Iwakuma, who has a 2.90 ERA on the season and a 3.09 career ERA against the Rangers.  Additionally, Iwakuma has a very strong 0.972 WHIP.  This stat is worth noting considering the Rangers are 4-0 UNDER in their last 4 games versus a starter with a WHIP of less than 1.150.  The UNDER is also 3-0-1 in Iwakuma's last 4 starts versus the Rangers and 9-1-2 in the Ranger's last 12 games when their opponent scored 5 runs or more in its previous game.  Baker is in great form, shutting down KC and Houston in his last 2 starts, and should benefit from the fact Seattle hasn't seen him in 3 years.  Bet the UNDER.

5* Wiseguy NFL Opener on Packers +6

Bottom Line: The reigning Super Bowl champs are being overvalued in their home opener as you might expect.  Green Bay enters the season hungry following a mediocre 8-8-1 campaign and will draw a little extra motivation from getting robbed in Seattle by the "Fail Mary" when it last visited in 2012.  Despite the loss, the Packers have won or lost by fewer than the 6 points we are getting here in 4 straight and 7 of their last 8 versus Seattle.  That's a 7-1 trend with a perfect 4-0 tightener.  Green Bay is a reliable 40-27 ATS in road games under coach McCarthy, and I expect it to take the Seahawks down to the wire tonight.

5* Wiseguy NCAAF *PRIMETIME PUNISHER* (FoxS1) on UTSA +7.5

Bottom Line: We cashed an easy winner on the Roadrunners last week, and we'll ride them again here.  Consider that non-conference home dogs of 3.5-10 points are 30-6 ATS the last 10 seasons if they had a winning record the previous season.  Additionally, playing against non-conference road favorites of 3.5-10 points in a matchup between teams that had winning records the previous season has resulted in a 45-16 ATS record since 1992.  The Roadrunners are 8-1 ATS in their last 9 non-conference games and 17-8 ATS as underdogs under coach Coker.  Pound UTSA.

4* Major MLB PLAY OF THE DAY on Rays -120

Bottom Line: The Rays are 4-0 in their last 4 games after losing the first 2 games of a series, and I expect them to salvage a game here.  Consider that Tampa Bay is 59-37 under manager Maddon when out for revenge for 2 straight home losses to an opponent.  It is 22-9 under Maddon in home games when coming off 2 straight home losses against division opponents.  Odorizzi has been great at home where he has a 2.92 ERA.  Buehrle has a 4.28 career ERA versus the Rays.  The Blue Jays are just 19-47 in their last 66 meetings in Tampa Bay.  Bet the Rays.

5* Wiseguy MLB *BEST BET* on Angels -138

Bottom Line: The Angels fit into an awesome system that I'm going to ride today.  Road favorites of -125 or more that are seeking revenge for a loss as a road favorite of -150 or higher has resulted in a 62-15 record the last 5 seasons, provided it is a team with a win percentage of 54-62%.  Teams fitting this system have won by 2.6 runs on average.  And, this system is 35-4 the last 3 seasons and a perfect 3-0 this season.  Pound the Angels.

5* Wiseguy AL West Game of the Year on A's -140

Bottom Line: Seattle's bullpen got a workout yesterday, and that wasn't ideal since Paxton is coming off a start in which he threw a career-high 118 pitches.  I don't expect him to be as sharp as he has been as a result, and I don't expect the pen to be able to pick him up.  The Athletics are 4-0 in Gray's last 4 starts as a home favorite of -110 to -150 and 4-0 in his last 4 starts versus the Mariners.  He has allowed just 2 earned runs in 25 2-3 innings during his 4-start win streak over Seattle.  The A's are 38-14 in their last 52 home games and 73-34 in their last 107 games as a favorite.  Pound Oakland.

5* Wiseguy NCAAF *PRIMETIME PUNISHER* on Miami +3.5

Bottom Line: This isn't the same Louisville team that kicked Miami in last year's Russell Athletic Bowl. Teddy Bridgewater is gone and so is head coach Charlie Strong.  In addition, the Cardinals bring back only 4 starters on the defensive side of the football, and preseason 1st Team All ACC receiver Devante Parker is expected to miss 6 weeks.  Miami returns 7 starters on each side of the ball from a team that started last season 7-0.  I expect another strong start from the Hurricanes, who are 8-3 ATS in their last 11 conference games as underdogs of 7 points or fewer.  Pound Miami.

4* Major MLB Play of the Day on Orioles -135

Bottom Line: The Orioles are 7-0 in their last 7 versus American League Central foes, 6-0 in their last 6 games as a favorite, 5-0 in their last 5 games after scoring 5 runs or more in their previous game, 6-0 in their last 6 games versus a right-handed starter and 4-0 in their last 4 games versus a team with a losing record.  The Twins are 1-7 in their last 8 overall and 2-7 in the last 9 meetings in Baltimore.  The Orioles are very familiar with Hughes, who has a 4.98 ERA in 19 starts against them and a 5.88 ERA in seven career starts at Camden Yards.  Minnesota, meanwhile, will be getting its first look at Gausman.  Bet Baltimore.

5* ESPN2 SNB *BEST BET* on Royals -156

Bottom Line: Look for the Royals to avoid being swept at home with Duffy on the hill.  The southpaw has been sensational, giving up 1 earned run or none in 9 of his last 12 starts.  The Royals are 14-2 in his last 16 starts as a favorite, 5-0 in his last 5 starts as a home favorite and 4-0 in his last 4 division starts.  Cleveland's House has a 4.88 road ERA on the season, and I don't see that holding up here.  Pound the Royals.

4* Major NCAAF *SUREFIRE* on Utah State +5.5

Bottom Line: Playing against home teams that return 5 offensive starters in the first month of the season, provided they closed last season with 4 losses or more in their last 5 games, has resulted in a 35-10 ATS record the last 10 seasons.  Teams fitting this situation have been favored by 6.1 points on average but have lost straight up by 1.1 points on average.  This system has produced a near-perfect 13-1 ATS record the last 3 seasons.  Utah State's stingy defense has held 8 of its last 12 foes to 17 points or fewer.  Look for the Aggies to keep this one within the number behind a strong defensive effort.

5* Wiseguy MLB *BEST BET* on Dodgers -138

Bottom Line: Greinke has owned the NL West.  He has a 1.79 ERA in 10 starts versus division opponents this season, and the Dodgers are 18-4 in his division starts over the last 2 seasons.  He's had his way with the Padres throughout his career.  In fact, his teams are 6-0 all-time in his starts versus San Diego, during which he's posted a 2.00 ERA.  Kennedy has a 4.35 ERA in 10 starts versus NL West foes this season.  He also has a 4.27 career ERA versus the Dodgers, and his teams are 1-6 in his last 7 starts against them.  Pound LA.

4* Major *MARQUEE MATCHUP* Georgia -7.5

Bottom Line: Look for Clemson to take a step back after losing Tajh Boyd and Sammy Watkins.  Georgia lost by 3 points to Clemson last season but had won the previous 5 meetings with the last 4 of those wins coming by 15.3 points on average.  Georgia has typically dominated ACC foes, going 22-9 ATS versus the league since 1992.  Georgia leads the all-time series 41-18-4, and I expect the SEC to flex its muscles here.

4* Major SEC *SUREFIRE* on Arkansas +19.5

Bottom Line: We'll look to take advantage of an inflated line that stems from Arkansas underachieving and Auburn overachieving last season.  With the exception of a 4-game rough patch in the middle of the season, the Razorbacks were very competitive last season.  6 of their losses came by 18 points or less.  6 of Auburn's 2013 victories came by single digits.  The Razorbacks are 5-2 ATS in their last 7 meetings at Auburn.  Bet Arkansas.

5* Wiseguy NCAAF Blowout Game of the Week on Ohio State -16

Bottom Line: I'll back the Buckeyes in what should be an inspired performance from them.  They ended last season on a sour note, dropping their last two games after winning their first 12.  As if that's not enough motivation, they'll be out to prove they are national title contenders even without Braxton Miller.  I don't think Miller's absence will matter.  The Buckeyes have more speed, more size and more athleticism all over the field on both sides of the ball.  I look for them to really dominate the line of scrimmage.  Favorites of 10.5 to 21 points are 43-15 ATS the last 10 seasons if they won 80% or more of their games the previous season.  Teams fitting this system have been favored by 15.2 points on average, but have won by 22.5 points on average.  This system is 24-5 ATS the last 5 seasons.  Pound Ohio State.

5* Wiseguy NCAAF *FRIDAY NIGHT FEAST* on UTSA +11.5

Bottom Line: The Roadrunners were embarrassed at home by Houston last season, and they will be out for some serious revenge as a result.  They lost the game 59-28, but the score doesn't tell the entire story as they outgained Houston.  The difference was a minus-5 turnover margin.  I just don't see there being such a huge difference in the turnover column this time around, which means these 11.5 points are looking pretty good, especially since the Roadrunners return 20 starters.  UTSA is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games, 7-1 ATS in its last 8 road games and 7-1 ATS in its last 8 non-conference contests.  The Cougars are 2-8 ATS in their last 10 games on turf.  Pound the Road runners.

4* Major MLB Play of the Day on Cardinals -146

Bottom Line: The Cardinals got a much-needed day off after dropping their last 2 in Pittsburgh.  Playing at home following a day of rest typically does the Redbirds some good.  They are 18-2 the last 2 season in home games following a day off.  They are also 17-1 in home games in the 2nd half of the season the last 3 seasons versus NL teams that average 3.8 runs per game or less.  Additionally, the Cards are 10-1 the last 2 seasons in Miller's starts following 2 or more consecutive team losses.  Bet St. Louis.

4* Major NFL Preseason *SUREFIRE* on Seahawks -5

No analysis in the preseason.  Plays are based on a number of factors, including QB depth, overall team depth, position battles, coaching strategy, motivation and trends.

4* Major MLB *BLOOD BATH* on Royals -144

Bottom Line: The Twins are 0-4 in their last 4 overall, and I expect their struggles to continue in Kansas City where they are 0-4 in their last 4.  The Royals have won 21 of 27 overall and 10 of 12 at home.  They are 4-0 in their last 4 games versus the Twins, 4-0 in their last 4 home games versus losing clubs and 4-0 in their last 4 Thursday games.  Guthrie has a 2.85 ERA in his last 6 starts versus Minnesota.  The Royals are 3-0 in his last 3 starts versus the Twins and 3-0 in his last 3 home starts versus the Twins.  The Royals are 4-0 in his last 4 starts as a favorite, 4-0 in his last 4 starts versus losing clubs and 6-0 in his last 6 starts in the 3rd game of a series.  Milone has been rocked in his last 2 starts with Kansas City getting to him in 1 of those.  Bet the Royals.

5* Wiseguy NCAAF *BEST BET* on Tulsa -6.5

Bottom Line: This game is about revenge for Tulsa, which had won 8 straight over Tulane by an average of 30.9 points.  Tulsa is 8-1 SU and ATS in the last 9 meetings, including 4-0 SU and ATS at home during this stretch.  These 4 home wins have come by an average of 36.8 points.  The Golden Hurricane outgained the Green Wave in last year's loss but was done in by 8 penalties totaling nearly 100 yards and a -2 turnover margin.  Look for Tulsa to have its revenge at home.

5* Wiseguy NL Game of the Week on Reds -153

Bottom Line: The Reds have had Chicago's number, going 38-14 in the last 52 meetings.  Look for Cincinnati to continue its dominance over the Cubs behind a gem from Latos.  The Reds are 27-10 in Latos' last 37 home starts and 12-1 in his last 13 starts as a home favorite of -151 to -200.  Latos' clubs are 6-1 in his last 7 starts versus the Cubs, during which he's posted a 1.88 ERA.  Chicago's Turner has a 6.03 ERA in 12 starts this season and was rocked in his most recent start against Cincinnati earlier this month.  Pound the Reds.

5* Wiseguy MLB Run Line Blowout Game of the Week on Mariners -1.5 +112

Bottom Line: Texas took Game 1 2-0 and leads the season series 8-5 so Seattle will be lacking no motivation when it hits the field this evening.  The Mariners are 9-0 in their last 9 games following a loss.  They are also 9-0 in their last 9 games after being held to 2 runs or less in their previous game.  Clearly, this is a club that takes losing seriously.  Seattle has the edge on the mound with Paxton, who Texas isn't familiar with at all.  The Mariners are 4-0 in Paxton's last 4 starts following a team loss in their previous game and 4-0 in his last 4 starts in the 2nd game of a series.  The Mariners are 14-5 in their last 19 overall and 8-2 in their last 10 at home.  The Rangers are 16-44 in their last 60 overall and 3-14 in their last 17 games following a win.  They are 2-10 in Martinez's last 12 starts, 1-8 in his last 9 starts versus a team with a winning record and 0-5 in his last 5 starts as an underdog of +151 to +200.  Pound the Mariners on the run line.

5* Wiseguy ESPN Monday Night Baseball *BEST BET* on Royals -133

Bottom Line: The Royals are 8-0 in their last 8 games as a home favorite, 5-0 in their last 5 games following a loss and 6-0 in their last 6 home games versus a right-handed starter.  They are also 4-0 in Shields' last 4 starts while the Yankees are 0-3 in Pineda's last 3 starts.  Shields is also 2-0 in his last 2 starts versus the Yankees, holding them to 1 earned run in 13 innings.  This is a tough spot for New York because it is off an emotional extra-innings win and starts a 3-game series in Detroit tomorrow.  The Royals, who are a major-league best 24-7 since July 22, are back from a lengthy road trip and can settle in for 10 straight at home.  Pound KC.

5* Wiseguy ESPN Sunday Night Baseball *BEST BET* on Angels +134

Bottom Line: The Halos are showing a ton of value at this price given Weaver's track record with the A's.  He has a 2.53 ERA in 28 starts against them.  The Angels are 10-3 in his last 13 starts in the series and 4-1 in his last 5 road starts.  LA is a perfect 11-0 in the 2nd half of the season the last 2 seasons in Weaver's starts versus teams that outscore their opponents by an average of 0.5 runs per game or more.  LA has won these 11 by an average of 3.7 runs.  The Angels are also 4-0 in Weaver's last 4 starts in the 3rd game of a series.  Kazmir has an ERA of 4.66 in 5 career starts versus the Angels.  Pound LA.

5* Wiseguy NFL Preseason *BEST BET* on Bengals +3

No analysis in the preseason.  Plays are based on a number of factors, including QB depth, overall team depth, position battles, coaching strategy, motivation and trends.

5* Wiseguy NL Game of the Week on Dodgers -158

Bottom Line: The Dodgers are 12-2 in their last 14 versus the Mets, including 5-0 in their last 5 at home in the series, and I expect them to continue their dominance behind Greinke.  The Dodgers are 20-6 in Greinke's last 26 home starts.  His clubs are 22-4 all-time in his home starts versus NL clubs with a batting averaging of .250 or lower.  Also, Greinke's clubs are 53-15 all-time in his starts as a favorite of -150 or higher.  Greinke has a 2.48 ERA at home while deGrom has a 3.69 road ERA.  Greinke has allowed just 1 earned run in his last 2 starts against the Mets spanning 12 innings.  deGrom walked away with a 4.50 ERA versus the Dodgers when he gave up 3 homers in a loss to them earlier this season.  Pound LA.

5* Wiseguy NFL Preseason Game of the Year on Colts -1

No analysis in the preseason.  Plays are based on a number of factors, including QB depth, overall team depth, position battles, coaching strategy, motivation and trends.

4* Major MLB *BLOOD BATH* on Royals -141

Bottom Line: The Rangers are awful at home and come in having dropped 5 of their last 7. Kansas City has won 6 of 8 and I look for the Royals to win here rather easily. Kansas City has a big edge on the mound with Yordano Ventura going up against Colby Lewis. Ventura has a 2.81 ERA over his last 4 starts, while Lewis is just 2-7 with a 7.29 ERA at home. The Royals are 37-14 in their last 51 games as a road favorite, 14-3 in their last 17 games versus a right-handed starter and a perfect 6-0 in their last 6 during game 1 of a series. Bet Kansas City.

4* Major MLB Run Line Blowout on Braves -1.5 +110

Bottom Line: Atlanta had their 5-game losing streak snapped last night in disappointing fashion, as they blew a 2-0 lead in the 8th and ended up losing 2-3 in the 9th. I look for the Braves to bounce right back with an easy win on Thursday, as they have a huge edge on the mound with Julio Teheran going up against Cincinnati's David Holmberg. Teheran comes in off a strong outing against the A's and was dominant in his only start against the Reds this season, holding them to just 3 hits over 8 shutout innings. Cincinnati will give the ball to David Holmberg, who in his only start this season was rocked by a poor Cubs offense for 5 runs on 7 hits and 3 walks in just 2.3 innings of work. Bet Atlanta.

4* Major Angels/Red Sox MLB Marquee Matchup on Angels -137

Bottom Line: The Angels are a sizzling 6-1 over their last 7 games and I look for them finish off the sweep of the slumping Red Sox behind their young ace Garrett Richards. After a poor finish to July, Richards has been lights out in 3 August starts. He's got a 1.19 ERA and 0.838 WHIP over this stretch, which includes a complete game 5-hit shutout and strong outing against Boston (1 run, 3 hits, 6 1/3 innings). Boston's Clay Buchholz has an ugly 7.00 ERA and 1.704 WHIP at home and a mere 4.42 ERA and 1.434 WHIP over 12 career starts against the Angels. Buchholz is 2-8 in 10 home starts this season and 4-11 in 15 starts at night. Angels are 6-1 in their last 7 against a right-handed starter, 10-2 in their last 12 road games against a team with a losing record and 9-1 in Richards' last 10 starts as a road favorite. Take Los Angeles.

4* Major MLB Run Line Blowout on Royals -1.5 +115

Bottom Line: No team has been better in interleague play than the Royals, who own the best mark in baseball at 14-4. Kansas City is also a MLB-best 16-3 since July 30 and have won 7 straight interleague contests on the road. I look for Colorado to win here by 2+ runs easily. The Royals will send out their ace James Shields against struggling rookie Tyler Matzek. Shields has a 2.55 ERA over his last 5 starts against the NL and limited the Rockies to 1 runs on 5 hits over 7 innings earlier this season. Matzek is 2-7 with a 5.43 ERA over 12 starts and has been brutal of late with a 9.60 ERA over his last 3. Kansas City has gone 21-9 against the run line after 4 or more consecutive road games and 13-2 in Shield's last 15 starts away from home. Bet Kansas City.

5* Wiseguy Monday Night Football *BEST BET* on Browns +3

No analysis in the preseason.  Plays are based on a number of factors, including QB depth, overall team depth, position battles, coaching strategy, motivation and trends.

4* Major MLB *MARQUEE MATCHUP* on Pirates -107

Bottom Line: The Braves are 0-8 in their last 8 road games, 0-7 in their last 7 road games versus a team with a winning record, 0-6 in their last 6 road games versus a right-handed starter, 0-5 in their last 5 games as a road underdog and 1-5 in Santana's last 6 road starts.  The Pirates are 4-0 in their last 4 home games versus a team with a winning record and 5-1 in Worley's last 6 starts as a favorite.  Bet the Pirates.

5* Wiseguy Sunday Night Baseball Game of the Month on A's -142

Bottom Line: Oakland holds the advantage with Lester going.  The southpaw has a 2.51 ERA and a 1.111 WHIP on the season.  His clubs are 10-1 in his last 11 starts.  The Braves are 0-6 in their last 6 games versus a starter with a WHIP less than 1.150.  Atlanta's Minor has a 5.33 ERA and a 1.576 WHIP on the season.  The Braves are 2-10 in Minor's last 12 interleague starts.  Oakland is now percentage points behind the Angels in a division it had led since April 23.  I expect that to provide some added motivation tonight.  Pound the A's.

5* Wiseguy NFL Preseason *BEST BET* on 49ers -4

No analysis in the preseason.  Plays are based on a number of factors, including QB depth, overall team depth, position battles, coaching strategy, motivation and trends.

5* Wiseguy NFL Preseason Game of the Week on Houston Texans -3

No analysis in the preseason.  Plays are based on a number of factors, including QB depth, overall team depth, position battles, coaching strategy, motivation and trends.

5* Wiseguy MLB *BEST BET* on Red Sox -162

Bottom Line: Boston's 4-game win streak came to an end with last night's extra-innings loss, but I like the Red Sox to bounce back strong.  Houston's Peacock has a 6.47 ERA on the road, a 10.53 ERA over his last 3 starts and a 14.75 ERA in a pair of starts versus Boston.  The Astros are 0-4 in his last 4 starts, 0-9 in his last 9 starts on regular rest (4 days) and 0-2 in his starts versus Boston.  De La Rosa has quietly been really good, especially at home where he has a
1.97 ERA.  The Red Sox are 31-13 in their last 44 games as a favorite of -151 to -200.  The Astros are 5-16 in the last 21 meetings and 1-8 in the last 9 meetings in Boston.  Pound the Red Sox.

5* Wiseguy AL Game of the Week on Royals -139

Bottom Line: Kansas City's Duffy has a 2.57 ERA and a 1.089 WHIP on the season.  His ERA and WHIP are even lower on the road. His WHIP is extremely significant because the Twins are 0-17 this season versus AL starters with a WHIP of 1.100 or better, and they have lost these contests by 3.8 runs on average.  The Royals are 4-0 in Duffy's last 4 starts, 4-0 in his last 4 starts as a road favorite and 4-0 in his last 4 starts versus the Twins.  Expect to see some rust on Nolasco, who hasn't made a big-league start since July 6.  He has a 5.90 ERA on the season.  Pound the Royals.

5* Wiseguy NFLX *BEST BET* on Titans +3.5

Typically no analysis in the preseason.  Plays are based on a number of factors, including QB depth, overall team depth, position battles, coaching strategy, motivation and trends.

5* Wiseguy NL Game of the Year on Cardinals -161

Bottom Line: I love the Cardinals at home against the Padres tonight.  The Cards are 75-34 in the last 109 meetings, including 40-12 in the last 52 in St. Louis.  The Cards are also a perfect 14-0 in home games in the 2nd half of the season the last 3 seasons versus NL teams that average 3.8 runs per game or less.  They have won these games by 4.6 runs on average.  The Cardinals are 43-15 in their last 58 home games versus a team with a road winning percentage of less than .400.  Stults can't be trusted on the road where he's 1-9 with a 5.37 ERA in 13 starts.  The Padres are 3-9 in Stults' last 12 starts and 7-20 in his last 27 road starts.  Lackey is 6-3 with a 3.16 ERA in 11 home starts, and his home ERA likely would be lower had he been pitching in the NL all season.  Pound St. Louis.

5* Wiseguy NFLX *BEST BET* on Jaguars +4

Typically no analysis in the preseason.  Plays are based on a number of factors, including QB depth, overall team depth, position battles, coaching strategy, motivation and trends.

5* Wiseguy MLB *BEST BET* on Mariners -161

Bottom Line: The Mariners hold a significant advantage on the rubber with Iwakuma, who has a 2.86 ERA on the season and a 1.66 ERA over his last three starts.  He's given up 2 runs or less in 7 of his last 8 starts.  Dickey has a 4.10 ERA in 25 starts and a 4.03 ERA in 12 road starts.  He's allowed 4 runs or more in 6 of his last 10 starts.  The Blue Jays are 0-5 in their last 5 road games, 0-4 in their last 4 road games versus a right-handed starter and 0-4 in Dickey's last 4 starts following a team loss in the previous game.  The Mariners are 4-0 in their last 4 games versus winning clubs.  Playing favorites of -150 or more has resulted in an 89-22 record since 1997 if they are starting a pitcher with a WHIP of 1.100 or less over his last 10 starts and have a team batting average of .265 or less and are facing a pitcher with an ERA of 4.20 or lower.  This system is 11-3 on the season.  Pound Seattle.

5* Wiseguy MLB *BEST BET* on Nationals -140

Bottom Line: The Nationals are 8-0 in their last 8 at Citi Field, and they'll be hungry after Sunday's 3-1 loss in Atlanta cost them the series.  The Nationals are 7-0 in their last 7 games after scoring 2 runs or less in their previous game while the Mets are 0-5 in their last 5 games when their opponent scores 2 runs or less in their previous game.  Fister has been a machine of late with a 0.84 ERA over his last three starts.  He's gone five consecutive starts without allowing more than 2 earned runs.  The Nationals are 5-0 in his last 5 starts on 5 days' rest.  He's also 2-0 with a 0.66 ERA in 2 career starts versus the Mets.  New York is recalling Montero here, and that's good news for the Nats.  The Mets are 0-4 in his 4 career starts while he's compiled a 5.40 ERA.  Pound the Nationals.

4* Major MLB *SUREFIRE* on Orioles -128

Bottom Line: The Orioles are 7-0 in their last seven series openers, and I expect them to get off to a fast start versus the Yankees with Norris on the rubber.  He has a 2.64 ERA in his last 8 starts and a 2.61 ERA in 8 home starts this season.  He has a 2.34 ERA versus the division, and the O's are 6-0 in his last 6 starts versus AL East opponents.  They are also 4-0 in his last 4 starts as a favorite.  Capuano has a 4.91 ERA in 3 relief appearances against the O's this season.  New York has dropped 10 of its last 14 division games and is 3-6 versus Baltimore this season.  The Yanks are also a soft 8-27 in their last 35 as an underdog of +110 to +150.  Bet Baltimore.

5* Wiseguy MLB *BEST BET* on Yankees -133

Bottom Line: The Indians evened the series behind their ace, but I don't see them taking the series with Carrasco making his first start since April.  The Indians are just 2-12 in their last 14 in the Bronx.  Carrasco has given up at least 4 earned runs in his last 7 starts, and the Tribe is 3-14 in his last 17 starts and 1-8 in his last 9 starts as an underdog of +110 to +150.  Carrasco is 0-2 in his last 2 starts versus the Yanks, allowing 13 runs in 7 2-3 innings  The Yankees are 7-2 in Kuroda's last 9 starts as a home favorite of -110 to -150.  Kuroda has given up more than 3 earned runs only 3 times in his last 15 starts.  Kuroda hasn't allowed more than 5 hits or 3 runs in any of his 3 starts versus the Indians.  Pound the Yankees.

5* Wiseguy NFLX *BEST BET* on Titans -1

Typically no analysis in the preseason.  Plays are based on a number of factors, including QB depth, overall team depth, position battles, coaching strategy, motivation and trends.

5* Wiseguy MLB *BEST BET* on Pirates -157

Bottom Line: The Pirates, who are an NL-best 37-22 at home, are worth the price today.  They are 11-2 over their last 13 home games while the Padres are 1-5 in their last 6 on the road, including 0-4 in their last 4 away games versus winning clubs.  Liriano has been lights out of late with a 1.44 ERA in 4 starts since the All-Star break.  The Pirates are 15-5 in his last 20 home starts and 8-1 in his last 9 home starts as a favorite of -151 to -200.  Stults has a 5.77 ERA on the road this season, and the Padres are 6-20 in his last 26 road starts, 0-5 in his last 5 starts as a road underdog and 0-5 in his last 5 starts following a quality start in his last appearance.  Pound the Pirates.

5* Wiseguy NFLX *BEST BET* on Bills -1.5

Typically no analysis in the preseason.  Plays are based on a number of factors, including QB depth, overall team depth, position battles, coaching strategy, motivation and trends.

5* Wiseguy NL Game of the Week on Reds -123

Bottom Line: Cincy is 8-1 in its last 9 games versus the Marlins.  It is also 19-6 in its last 25 home games versus the Fish.  Look for Cincy's dominance to continue behind Leake, who is 2-0 in his last 2 starts while allowing 1 run in 13 2-3 innings.  He's also 3-0 with a 1.93 ERA in 3 career starts versus Miami.  Miami's Eovaldi has a 5.82 ERA over his last 7 starts.  The Marlins are 3-9 in his last 12 starts, 2-8 in his last 10 road starts, 0-4 in his last 4 road starts versus a team with a winning record and 0-6 in his last 6 starts following a quality start in his last appearance.  Cincy is 22-4 lifetime in Leake's home starts in the 2nd half of the season versus teams that strikeout 7 times per game or more.  Pound the Reds.

5* Wiseguy MLB *BEST BET* on Pirates -134

Bottom Line: Flynn has made 4 career starts for the Marlins.  They are 0-4 in those starts while he's compiled an 8.50 ERA and a .370 opponent average.  No matter what uniform Volquez has worn, he's own the Marlins.  His clubs are 6-0 in his 6 career starts against them while posting a tidy 1.95 ERA.  Additionally, the Pirates are 5-0 in Volquez's last 5 starts versus teams with a losing record.  Pound the Pirates.

5* Wiseguy NFLX Game of the Week on Jets -3

Typically no analysis in the preseason.  Plays are based on a number of factors, including QB depth, overall team depth, position battles, coaching strategy, motivation and trends.

5* Wiseguy Interleague *BEST BET* on Angels -147

Bottom Line: AL clubs that average 4.7 to 5.2 runs per game and are starting a pitcher who averages 5.0 strikeouts per start or more are 54-18 since 1997 if they are matched up against an NL club that is starting a pitcher who has an ERA of 4.20 to 5.20.  Haren has a 4.76 ERA on the season and has really started to unravel, going 0-5 in his last 5 starts with an ERA of 10.03.  Pound the Angels.

5* Wiseguy Interleague Game of the Month on Cardinals -148

Bottom Line: Having yesterday off should be just what the doctor ordered for St. Louis, which is 17-2 the last 2 seasons in home games following a day off.  And, the Cards will show no mercy to the team that defeated them in the World Series.  Boston is 2-10 in its last 12 games and doesn't figure to get much help from De La Rosa, who has a 6.04 ERA on the road.  The Red Sox are 0-4 in De La Rosa's last 4 road starts.  The Cards are 72-32 the last 3 seasons versus teams getting outscored by an average of 0.5 runs or more per game, including 23-3 in home games played in the second half of the season during this span.  Lynn has a 2.98 ERA on the season, a 2.71 ERA at home and a 1.96 ERA over his last 3 starts.  Pound the Cards.

5* Wiseguy MLB *BEST BET* on A's -140

Bottom Line: Cobb is pitching great, but his 3.45 road ERA is over a run higher than the 2.30 home ERA Samardzija has posted.  Plus, the A's have already seen Cobb this season while the Rays have never faced Samardzija.  It will be mighty tough for Tampa to figure out a pitcher it's not familiar with, especially when that pitcher has posted a 0.82 WHIP while holding foes to a .203 avg. since coming over from the NL.  The Athletics are 4-0 in Samardzija's 4 starts as a favorite and 77-34 in their last 111 games as a home favorite of -110 to -150.  The Rays are 18-45 in their last 63 meetings in Oakland.  Pound the A's.

4* Major NFLX *SUREFIRE* on Giants +3

Bottom Line: NFC teams are 8-2 SU (7-2-1 ATS) vs. AFC teams in contests in Canton.  The Bills are 1-5 SU in preseason openers the last 6 years as well as 1-11 SU (1-10-1 ATS) in their last 12 NFLX non-conference matchups.  The Giants are on an 11-1 SU and ATS run as an underdog or pickem in non-conference preseason openers.  These last two trends combine to create a 21-2 ATS angle I'll gladly get behind.

5* Wiseguy MLB Underdog Game of the Week on Orioles +103

Bottom Line: The Mariners are 0-6 in their last 6 games following a win, 0-4 in their last 4 games as a favorite of -110 to -150, 0-4 in their last 4 Sunday games and 0-4 in Iwakuma's last 4 starts versus the American League East.  Iwakuma has a 5.25 ERA in 2 career starts versus the Orioles, one of those being a 4-0 home loss last week.  The Orioles are 15-4 in Tillman's last 19 home starts versus a team with a winning record and 11-4 in his last 15 starts as an underdog.  Tillman is 5-0 lifetime with an ERA of 2.46 and a WHIP of 0.909 in 5 starts versus the Mariners.  The Mariners are 6-14 in the last 20 meetings and 3-8 in the last 11 meetings in Baltimore.  Pound the O's.

5* Wiseguy MLB *BEST BET* on White Sox -119

Bottom Line: Here, we have a pair of teams headed in opposite directions, and I'm getting behind the one on the upswing at a very reasonable price.  The Twins are 4-10 in their last 14 games.  They are even 1-7 in their last eight versus teams that have a sub .500 record and 0-4 in their last 4 in the second game of a series.  The White Sox are 6-2 in their last 8 and 4-1 in their last 5 versus Minnesota.  The Twins won at home when Pino and Carroll dueled Sunday, but Carroll gave up just 1 run and has been trending in the right direction with a 2.38 ERA over his last 4 outings.  He gave up 1 or no runs in 3 of those.  Playing against all AL teams with a money line of +125 to -125 that average 4.2 runs per game or fewer and allowed 10 runs or more last game has resulted in a 75-36 record the last 5 seasons.  Additionally, AL home teams with a money line of +125 to -125 that have a team batting averaging of .265 or worse but are batting .300 or better over their last 15 games are 34-14 since 1997, including a perfect 3-0 the last 3 seasons.  Pound Chicago.

5* Wiseguy Run Line Blowout Game of the Month on White Sox -1.5 -125

Bottom Line: Last Saturday, Sale easily outdueled Darnell in a 7-0 win at Minnesota.  I expect no different tonight in Chicago.  Sale is 10-1 with a 1.88 ERA and a 0.864 WHIP on the season.  The WHIP is extremely significant.  Consider that Minnesota is 0-13 this season when facing an AL starting pitcher with a WHIP of 1.100 or better.  The Twins have lost these contests by an average of 4.0 runs.  Sale is 6-1 with an ERA of 2.28 and a 0.993 WHIP in 7 career starts against the Twins.  Each of the 6 victories have come by at least 2 runs.  Pound the Sox on the run line.

5* Wiseguy MLB Total of the Week on Reds/Marlins UNDER 6.5

Bottom Line: Cincy's offense is really struggling.  It has scored 3 runs or fewer in 11 of its last 12 games while batting .189.  With Joey Votto and Brandon Phillips on the DL and Jay Bruce on the bereavement list, I see the offensive struggles continuing.  The Reds will have a tough time getting to Koehler, who has a 2.75 home ERA on the season and a 1.38 ERA over his last 2 starts at Marlins Park.  Miami has scored 3 runs or less in 14 of its last 19 games, and it will get nothing easy off Cueto, who has posted a 2.08 ERA.  The under is 37-17-2 in Cueto's last 56 starts.  The under is 9-1 in Cincy's last 10 games and 4-0 in its last 4 road games.  It is also 8-0 in its last 8 games following a loss and 4-0 in its last 4 series openers.  Pound the UNDER.

5* Wiseguy American League GAME OF THE MONTH on Royals -144

Bottom Line: KC's Duffy has been dealing all season, as evidenced by his 2.47 ERA.  He's been almost unhittable lately with a 1.93 ERA over his last 6 outings and a 0.92 ERA over his last 3.  He has a 2.13 ERA in 6 career appearances versus Minnesota.  Hughes has a 4.10 ERA on the season, a 6.31 ERA over his last 7 starts and a 7.20 ERA over his last 3.  He also has a 5.89 ERA in 9 career starts versus KC.  The Twins are 5-21 this season when facing an AL starting pitcher with an ERA of 3.50 or better.  Twins are 1-4 in Hughes' last 5 starts as an underdog of +110 to +150 while the Royals are 4-0 in Duffy's last 4 starts as a favorite of -110 to -150.  The Royals are 45-21 in their last 66 games as a favorite of -110 to -150 and 25-12 in their last 37 games as a home favorite of -110 to -150.  KC is 10-4 in its last 14 home games versus Minnesota.  Pound the Royals.

5* Wiseguy NL GAME OF THE MONTH on Dodgers -148

Bottom Line: The Braves are 0-10 the last 2 seasons in road games when facing an NL starting pitcher with an ERA of 2.70 or lower.  They have lost these contests 3.6 runs on average.  Additionally, playing against underdogs of +125 to +175 that have a bullpen ERA of 3.33 or lower on the season but are batting .250 or worse as a team has resulted in a 97-39 record since 1997 if they are facing an NL starter with an ERA of 2.70 or lower.  Plus, this is a tough situational spot for the Braves, which made the long trip from Atlanta to LA following yesterday's game.  The Dodgers should benefit from having been at home yesterday and having the day off.  Pound the Dodgers.

5* Wiseguy MLB *BEST BET* on Cubs -142

Bottom Line: The Rockies are 15-37 in their last 52 overall and 25-56 in their last 81 on the road, including 1-12 in their last 13 and 0-6 in their last 6.  They are 16-41 in their last 57 road games versus a left-handed starter, 0-7 in their last 7 Monday games, 5-17 in their last 22 series openers and 7-19 in the last 26 meetings in Chicago.  Colorado is also 0-4 in Flande's 4 career starts, during which he's posted a 7.20 ERA.  The Cubs are 9-3 in their last 12 series openers and have the more promising starter on the hill with Wada.  Flande was 2-10 with an ERA of 5.00 in triple-A this season before getting the call up.  Wada was 10-6 with a 2.77 ERA in triple-A before getting his call.  You want to play against National League July road dogs of +125 to +175 that give up 4.8 runs per game or more on the season as doing so has produced a 43-7 record the last 5 seasons, an 11-1 record the last 3 seasons and a 3-0 record this season.  Pound Chicago.

4* Major MLB Sunday *SUREFIRE* on Twins -123

Bottom Line: The White Sox have taken the first 3 games of this series but have never swept a 4-game series in Minnesota against the Twins.  It's also worth mentioning that the Sox are 6-18 this season following 2 consecutive wins or more.  I don't trust Chicago's Carroll, who has a 6.00 ERA in 10 starts this season.  He has given up 5 earned runs or more in 6 of his last 8 starts.  Minnesota's Pino has been solid at home where he has a 3.96 ERA in 4 starts.  The Twins beat the White Sox 4-2 with him on the mound June 19.  He gave up only 2 runs in 7 innings while striking out 7 and walking 1 that day.  The Sox have dropped 8 of their last 11 Sunday contests, 12 of their last 17 division contests and 11 of their last 16 road games versus losing teams.  Bet Minnesota.

5* Wiseguy NL Game of the Week on Phillies -140

Bottom Line: Lee was rocked in his first start back, but he almost always follows a poor outing with a strong one.  He has every incentive to pitch well here in an audition spot prior to the trade deadline.  He has a 2.83 home ERA on the season while Collmenter has a 5.17 road ERA.  Lee has a 3.12 ERA in 7 starts versus the D-backs, and the Phillies are 4-0 in his last 4 starts against them.  Lee's clubs are 4-0 lifetime in his home starts versus the Snakes.  The D-backs are 0-4 in their last 4 road games versus a team with a home winning percentage less than .400 and 3-14 in their last 17 in Philadelphia.  Pound the Phillies.

4* Major AL Central *SUREFIRE* on Twins -114

Bottom Line: Danks has had no luck versus the Twins with an ERA of 5.36 in 25 career starts.  The White Sox are 2-14 in his last 16 starts versus the Twins, including 0-8 in his last 8.  They are also 1-10 in his last 11 road starts versus Minnesota, including 0-4 in his last 4.  Correia has fared well versus the White Sox with an ERA of 2.93 in 6 career starts.  He's 3-1 with a 2.45 ERA in his last five starts against the White Sox.  Correia also enters in better form.  He has a 3.71 ERA over his Last 3 starts while Danks has a 5.82 ERA over his last 3.  Bet Minnesota.

5* Wiseguy AL East Game of the Week on Yankees -125

Bottom Line: Toronto shut out Boston yesterday, but it is 0-9 under manager Gibbons following a win over a division opponent where it allowed one run or none.  It has lost by an average of 3.3 runs in this situation.  The Yankees are 16-0 in their last 16 at home versus Toronto, and they have owned Buehrle, whose clubs are 0-9 in his last nine road starts versus the Yankees.  Kuroda has had much better luck versus the Blue Jays, going 3-0 with a 1.29 ERA in 3 career home starts against them, including 2 wins over Buehrle.  Pound New York.

5* Wiseguy MLB *BEST BET* on Mariners -132

Bottom Line: The Mariners are showing a lot of value at this price given the edge they hold on the mound with Iwakuma.  The right-hander has been rock solid at home (2.81 ERA) and enters in top form (1.59 ERA L3 starts).  The same can't be said about Baltimore's Chen, who has a 4.68 ERA on the road and a 4.32 ERA over his last 3 starts.  Chen is also 0-2 with a 4.56 ERA in 4 starts versus Seattle.  Chen hasn't pitched well enough to have 10 wins.  He's benefited from the league's highest run support average (6.36).  Unfortunately for him, the Orioles are batting a big league-worst .205 since July 9 and .167 in their past four games.  I don't see the O's getting enough off Iwakuma to get the win tonight.  AL favorites of -110 or higher are 57-15 the last 5 seasons when starting a pitcher with an ERA of 4.20 or lower against an opponent that is starting a pitcher with a win percentage higher than 70.0 percent.  Pound the M's.

5* Wiseguy AL Game of the Week on Angels -162

Bottom Line: Tillman is 6-0 on the road, but his 4.69 ERA away from home is a big concern.  An LA club that leads the majors with 5.0 runs per game should be able to get to him.  Baltimore has been able to provide Tillman with run support on the road, but it will have a tough time getting much off Weaver.  The Angels are 6-0 in his last 6 starts, during which he's posted a 2.78 ERA.  He has a 2.26 ERA in his last 10 home starts.  The Angels are 89-36 lifetime in Weaver's home starts, including 39-12 in his last 51.  The Halos are also 27-6 as a favorite of -150 or more this season, including 20-4 at home in this price range.  Pound the Angels.