6* Big 12 *CA$H COW* on Texas Tech +4
The Key: Baylor checks in off a 26-point beatdown of TCU, but it is 1-11 ATS under coach Drew after a cover as a double digit favorite and has lost by an average score of 73.6 to 73.2 in this spot. So clearly Baylor has not been immune to letdowns following blowout victories. Baylor absolutely destroyed Texas Tech in last season's meetings so it will be much more concerned about upcoming games against Oklahoma and Kansas. This is a game Texas Tech had circled entering the season, and the Red Raiders are playing with a ton of confidence under Tubby Smith. They are 0-3 in Big 12 play but have been in all 3 games. Take the points.

6* NBA Letdown Game of the Week on Bucks +5.5
The Key: Look for the Grizzlies to come out flat tonight following last night's big win over Oklahoma City. This is also Memphis' first road game since Jan. 5 so a change in venue should contribute to a flat performance. Memphis is a soft 54-78 ATS in road games when playing 8 or more games in 14 days. Milwaukee is on a 64-40 ATS run after 4 or more consecutive losses. It has also won or lost by fewer than 5.5 points in six of its last eight home games against the Grizzlies. The underdog is 9-3 ATS in the last 12 meetings. Milwaukee catches Memphis at the right time and keeps this one close. Take the points.

6* NBA Line Mistake on Celtics +4.5
The Key: Toronto has covered the spread in 10 straight and is being overvalued as a result. The Celtics have lost nine in a row and will go after this game with all they've got to try to get off the snide. Boston will be lacking no confidence given the success it's had at home against Toronto. It is 10-0 at home against the Raptors since the start of the 2008-09 season, winning these games by 16.3 points on average. Take the points as Boston gives the Raptors a game tonight.

7* NBA Situational Slam Dunk of the Week on 76ers +1
The Key: This is a bad situation for the Bobcats. It is a letdown spot for them following a big win over the Knicks. It is also a fatigued spot as they are playing their second game in as many nights and their fourth game in six days. The Bobcats are 17-37 ATS the last three seasons in the second game of a back-to-back. This is a good spot for the 76ers, who have had three days to gear up for this game. The 76ers should also be the more motivated team having lost the season's first meeting. Philly is the more explosive offensive team, averaging 9.1 points per game more than Charlotte. Odds makers have set a total of 207.0 and that number favors Philly. Consider that the Bobcats are just 1-10 ATS in road games when the total is greater than or equal to 200 over the last 2 seasons. They have lost these games by an average score of 114.3 to 90.8. The 76ers are 5-0 in their last five home games against Charlotte, winning them by an average of 11.6 points. Take the 76ers.

6* ACC *CA$H COW* on Virginia Tech +2.5
The Key: Clemson upset Duke last game, but it is 0-7 ATS off an upset win of 10 points or more at home since 1997. It hasn't just lost in this situation, it has lost by an average score of 78.3 to 59.1. The home team has had the decisive edge recently, winning each of the last 6 matchups by an average of 6.5 points. The Tigers are 0-4 ATS in the last 4 meetings, and the underdog is 5-0 ATS in the last 5 meetings. Take VA Tech.

6* MVC *CA$H COW* on Southern Illinois +6.5
The Key: Northern Iowa isn't the same team outside Cedar Falls. The Panthers are just 3-7 in games played away from home this season. They are just 13-23 ATS as a road favorite or pickem under coach Jacobson. They are also 0-6 ATS in road games the last two seasons when checking in with three wins in their last four games. They have lost by an average score of 68.0 to 58.3 in this situation. The home team has had the edge in this series, going 6-1 in the last seven meetings with the lone loss coming by only four points. Take the Salukis.

7* NBA Situational Slam Dunk on Bobcats -109
The Key: This is a bad situation for the Knicks, who are playing their third game in four days and were pushed to overtime last night. Charlotte will be the fresher side as it has had the last two days off. This is also a look-ahead situation for New York, which has a big game at Indiana Thursday. The Bobcats have lost three in a row so they will be extremely focused on the task at hand. They were also defeated on this court the last time they faced the Knicks so they will be out for revenge. The Bobcats are an impressive 12-2 ATS in their last 14 Atlantic division foes and 4-1 ATS in their last five versus the Knicks. Take Charlotte.

7* NCAAB *HEAVY HITTER* on George Washington +2.5
The Key: This experienced George Washington team has been taking excellent care of the basketball and that gives it an excellent opportunity to take care of business tonight. VCU relies on forcing turnovers to create points. That's why it is 0-6 ATS the last two seasons in games played 15 games or more into the schedule versus teams like GW that average 12 turnovers or less per game. The Rams have lost these games by an average score of 74.7 to 65.0. It is also worth noting that GW is on a 10-1 ATS run in home games versus high-pressure defensive teams like VCU that force an average of 18 turnovers per game or more. The Colonials have won by an average score of 84.8 to 76.7 in these contests. In addition, GW is a perfect 8-0 ATS in January home games under coach Lonergan. VCU is just 1-8 ATS the last two seasons as a road favorite or pickem. Take the points.

6* ACC *CA$H COW* on Boston College +9
The Key: Boston College checks in off a 62-59 win at Virginia Tech, which is significant because such wins have given the Eagles a boost of confidence in recent years. In fact, B.C. is 7-0 ATS following a close win of three points or less the last three seasons. In addition, B.C. is an awesome 13-3 ATS in home games that occur 15 games or more into the schedule versus top-caliber opponents that outscore the opposition by 12.0 points per game or more. You also want to fade road favorites or pickems in games that occur 15 games or more into the schedule in a matchup between average offensive teams that average 67.0-74.0 ppg, provided the team we are fading has held its opponents to 65 points of less in five straight games. Doing so has produced a 31-8 ATS mark the last five seasons. Off a big win over North Carolina and with a showdown against Pitt on deck, the Orange won't give Boston College enough focus. That gives the Eagles an excellent opportunity to cover this number tonight.

7* NBA Situational Slam Dunk on Pelicans +6.5
The Key: This is a tough spot for the Spurs, who are being asked to go on the road without rest to face a team they have struggled against. San Antonio has defeated the Pelicans by more than five points just once in the past five meetings. In addition, it hasn't won by more than four points in its last five games in New Orleans, going 0-5 ATS in these games as a result. New Orleans is coming off back-to-back losses to Dallas, but it is a perfect 9-0 ATS following two consecutive division games over the last three seasons, winning by an average score of 95.1 to 94.2 in this situation. Take the points.

6* Pac-12 Powerhouse on USC +12
The Key: I expect a letdown from Arizona following a huge win over UCLA. I also expect an inspired effort from USC following back-to-back disappointing performances. You want to fade favorites of 10.0-19.5 points that are undefeated on the season and have covered the spread in 4 or 5 or their last 6 games. Doing so has produced a 36-19 ATS mark the last 5 seasons. The Trojans are 17-6 ATS in their last 23 games following a double-digit loss at home. In addition, teams headed up by coach Andy Enfield are 7-0 ATS all-time 15 games or more into the schedule when playing against a team that has a winning record. USC won last season's home meeting 89-78 as a 7-point dog. The Trojans have won or lost by fewer than 12 points in each of their last 8 home games against the Wildcats. They have won or lost by 12 points or less in 12 straight at home in the series. The home team is 6-1 ATS in the last 7 meetings. Take the points.

6* Under the Radar *CA$H COW* on Tennessee-Martin +11.5
The Key: Tennessee-Martin has had five days to prepare for this game, and it will be hungry to avenge last season's brutally embarrassing loss at Belmont. The Bruins have been a poor investment following a cover at 0-4 ATS in their last 4 games following an ATS win. Furthermore, they are 1-8 ATS under coach Byrd in road games off a road win of 10 points or more, only winning by 2.2 points on average in this situation. The Bruins are also 0-4 ATS in their last 4 games versus a team with a losing record. Take the points.

7* WCC Game of the Month on Pacific -5
The Key: Expect a letdown from Santa Clara following Thursday's huge win at St. Mary's. Pacific, on the other hand, will be in extreme bounce-back mode after an 0-4 start in conference play. Pacific fell at home to Santa Clara last season and will be further fueled by that loss. Pacific is 17-7 ATS as a favorite over the last 2 seasons and 35-18 ATS as a home favorite of 6 points or less or pickem since 1997. Lay the points.

6* AAC Game of the Week on Temple +7.5
The Key: Expect a letdown from Memphis following a big win at Louisville Thursday. Temple, meanwhile, will be in bounce-back mode after being upset by South Florida. The Owls are a terrific 16-4 ATS under coach Dunphy in home games versus very good teams like Memphis that outscore opponents by 8+ points/game. Temple has defeated these teams by an average score of 74.8 to 71.4. The Owls are also 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games versus a team with a winning percentage above .600. Take the points.

7* Big East Game of the Year on St. John's +5
The Key: Motivated by an 0-2 start in conference play and further motivated by a pair of double-digit losses to Villanova last season, St. John's is in prime position to pull off the upset. The Johnnies have had six days to prepare for this game while Villanova has had only two days. Plus, St. John's has been outstanding at home where it is 7-1 on the season with the loss coming by only five points to Syracuse. St. John's is 8-1 ATS off a loss of 10 points or more to a conference foe over the last 2 seasons. It is also 9-2 ATS under Lavin in home games after failing to cover the spread in 2 or more consecutive games. Take the points.

6* Early Annihilator on Oklahoma +3.5
The Key: Look for Oklahoma to give Iowa State all it wants and more here. The Cyclones are a good team, but they have benefited from a home-heavy schedule to this point. This is just their third true road game of the season, and they struggled in the previous two against BYU and Texas Tech. Oklahoma likes to play a free-flowing style, which is evident by its 92.0 ppg average at home. Iowa State's style of play feeds right into what Oklahoma likes to do. The Sooners are 7-0 ATS in home games under coach Kruger versus teams like Iowa State that average 17 fouls per game of less. They have won these games by 13.0 points on average. Take the points.

7* NBA *HEAVY HITTER* on Magic +7.5
The Key: The Kings have some nice recent wins against the Heat, Rockets and Trail Blazers. However, they have some bad recent losses against the Pelicans, 76ers and Bobcats. This tells me Sacramento is getting up for the good teams (and those teams are overlooking the Kings) and not coming to play against lesser competition. In fact, the Kings are just 7-18 ATS in home games versus teams that have a losing record over the last two seasons and have lost to these teams by an average score of 104.2 to 102.9. Looking back further, Sacramento is a lousy 19-40-2 ATS in its last 61 games versus teams that have a losing record. The Kings won in Orlando 105-100 Dec. 21 for a third straight win in the series so I don't see them being nearly as hungry as an Orlando team that is looking to avenge that loss and looking to snap a five-game skid overall. The Kings are 0-10 ATS as a favorite under coach Michael Malone, losing these games by an average score of 105.7 to 98.0. Take the points.

6* NCAAB Bailout on Portland +9
The Key: You want to fade any team like Gonzaga that checks in off a blowout win of 20 points or more over a conference opponent if they have a winning percentage of 80% or higher and are playing a team with a 51-60% win percentage. Doing so has produced a 36-12 ATS mark the last five seasons. Teams fitting thee parameters have been favored by 9.5 points on average but have won by only 6.7 points on average. Gonzaga hasn't played a true road game in a month, and it is 3-12-1 ATS in its last 16 road games following three or more consecutive home games. The Bulldogs are also 2-10 ATS the last three seasons in road games after 3 straight wins of 10 points or more. They have won these games on average but only by 2.5 points. The Pilots are 5-0 ATS in their last 5 Thursday games, 5-1 ATS in their last 6 games following a loss and 5-1 ATS in their last 6 games versus a team with a winning percentage above .600. The home team is 6-1 ATS in the last 7 meetings. Take the points.

7* Big Ten *HEAVY HITTER* on Nebraska +4
The Key: Motivated by back-to-back double-digit defeats to start Big Ten play, and further fueled by double-digit losses to Michigan each of the past two seasons, this experienced Nebraska team will play some inspired basketball on its home floor this evening. Nebraska has been tough as nails at home where it is 9-0 in its last nine. This young Michigan squad, which is without arguably its best player (Mitch McGary), will have a tough time making it out of Lincoln alive. The Wolverines check in off a blowout win over Northwestern. However, they are 1-4 ATS in their last 5 games following a win of more than 20 points. They are also just 8-17 ATS off a win of 10 points or more over a conference foe under coach Beilein, losing these contests by an average score of 65.0 to 63.1. The Wolverines are 4-9 ATS in their last 13 road games and 4-10 ATS in their last 14 versus the Big Ten. The Cornhuskers are 11-2 ATS off a loss to a conference foe under coach Miles. They are 11-2-1 ATS in their last 14 games following an ATS loss and 9-2-1 ATS in their last 12 home games. Take the points.

7* Pac-12 Powerhouse on Washington State +7.5
The Key: Motivated by back-to-back ugly losses on the road and further fueled by an upset loss to Colorado last season, look for Washington State to step up when it takes the floor at Spokane Arena tonight. The Buffaloes are off a big 100-91 win over Oregon, which puts them squarely in letdown mode. The Buffaloes are 4-12 ATS in their last 16 games after scoring more than 90 points in their previous game, including 0-6 ATS in their last 6 after scoring 100 points or more in their previous game. These trends speak to the way odds makers overvalue teams following strong offensive performances. We are getting additional line value here because Washington State is coming off two putrid offensive performances. Consider that the Cougars are on a 25-12 ATS run when playing away from their home arena after being held to 60 points or less in two straight games. Teams headed up by coach Ken Bone are 34-18 ATS all-time after failing to cover the spread in two or more consecutive games. Take the points.

7* NBA Situational Slam Dunk of the Month on Nets +6.5
The Key: This is a terrible spot for Golden State, which is playing its second road game in as many days, its third road game in four days and its seventh road game in 11 days. With all the travel and virtually no rest, I don't see Golden State having enough left in the tank to cover this number against a rested Brooklyn team that is playing its best basketball of the season. The Warriors are 4-10 ATS in their last 14 games following an ATS win while the Nets are 6-2 ATS in their last 8 games following an ATS win. The home team is 5-2 ATS in the last 7 meetings, and the Warriors are 3-8 ATS in the last 11 road meetings. Take the points as Brooklyn has an excellent opportunity to win this game outright.

6* NBA Motivational Mismatch on Hawks +5
The Key: Atlanta will undoubtedly be the more motivated team tonight. The Pacers are off a satisfying revenge win over Toronto last night, and they are just 1-6 ATS in their last 7 games when playing without a day of rest and 0-4 ATS in their last 4 games when their starting 5 players combine for more than 160 minutes the previous day. The Hawks have dropped three in a row, which is motivation enough, but they will be even more juiced up by the fact they were knocked out of the playoffs by the Pacers last season. Indy has had significant struggles in Atlanta, going 1-13 in its last 14 meetings there, including 0-11 in the regular season. Take the points.

6* Big East *CA$H COW* on Providence +2.5
The Key: Motivated by back-to-back defeats to open conference play and out to end an 8-game losing streak to Georgetown, I expect Providence to take care of business at home where it is 7-1 this season. That lone loss came by a single point so the Friars have been within this number in all 8 home games this season. I'm not hesitating to get behind this 8-0 trend given the level of motivation Providence has here. The Hoyas check in off a blowout win over St. John's, but they are 1-4 ATS in their last 5 games following a SU win and 1-4 ATS in their last 5 games following an ATS win. Take the points.

7* NBA Situational Slam Dunk on Jazz +7
The Key: This is a tough spot for the Thunder, who will be playing their third game in four days. Utah will be the fresher side as it has had three days off prior to this game. Utah will also be the hungrier side because it has lost the season's first two meetings. The Jazz played the Thunder to a three-point game at home in the season opener when Oklahoma City didn't have Russell Westbrook available, and that will be the case again tonight. The Jazz didn't have Trey Burke available for that game, but he'll be in the lineup tonight. He's been a major contributor since making his way into the lineup. He leads the team in assists per game and has emerged as the third leading scorer. The Thunder are 1-5 ATS in their last 6 games following a win of more than 10 points while the Jazz are 6-2 ATS in their last 8 games following a loss of more than 10 points. The Thunder are just 1-5 ATS in their last 6 games following an ATS win, and the home team is 7-1 ATS in the last 8 meetings. Take the points.

7* Big 12 Game of the Month on TCU +5.5
The Key: Off a big upset win over Oklahoma State and with a big game at rival Kansas on deck, the Wildcats won't give TCU their full attention. TCU, on the other hand, will be very focused after opening Big 12 play with a loss and after losing both of last season's meetings with the Wildcats. This is Kansas State's first true road game of the season, and it has not been a good investment on the road. The Wildcats are 5-11-1 ATS in their last 17 road games and 4-9-1 ATS in their last 14 road games versus a team with a winning home record. K-State is also just 6-18 ATS in Tuesday night road games since 1997, losing these by an average score of 76.0 to 66.8. Take TCU.

7* Southern Conference Game of the Month on Citadel +4.5
The Key: This is a tough spot for Chattanooga, which is off an upset win at Furman and playing its second road game in three days. The Citadel has had three days to prepare for this contest, and they will be lacking no motivation after losing both of last season's meetings. Chattanooga is a soft 56-84 ATS when playing on one or less days' rest since 1997. The Mocs are just 5-14 ATS in road games following a conference game over the last 3 seasons and 37-60 ATS after 2 or more consecutive wins since 1997. It is also worth noting that they are 0-6 ATS the last 3 seasons in road games when matched up against a team with a win percentage of .200 to .400 in games played 15 games or more into the schedule. They have lost these games by an average of 10.5 points. The Citadel is 11-3 ATS the last 3 seasons when checking in with losses in 4 of its last 5 games. Take the points.

7* NBA Situational Slam Dunk on Wizards +3.5
The Key: This is a difficult situation for the Warriors, who are playing their third road game in four days and their fifth road game in eight days. Washington has been at home to start the month and has had at least one day of rest in between each of its four games. The Wizards will be very hungry here because they have lost their last two games at home, and this is their last home game before they head out on the road for three games. The Wizards are 7-1 ATS in their last 8 games following an ATS loss and 12-3 ATS in their last 15 home games versus a team with a winning road record. Washington is also 20-8 ATS as a home underdog over the last 2 seasons. Take the points.

7* Missouri Valley Conference Game of the Year on Bradley +4.5
The Key: Motivated by Wednesday's 80-46 loss at Northern Iowa and further fueled by an 81-66 loss to Drake in last season's MVC Tournament, Bradley will be all business when it takes the floor this evening. In fact, I expect Geno Ford's squad to pull the upset against a Drake team that will be riding a little too high on the horse following a 94-66 win over Evansville. Bradley is 9-2 ATS all-time under Ford in home games following a loss of 15 points or more. It has won by an average score of 72.1 to 64.9 in this situation. Take the points.

6* NCAAB Non-Conference Annihilator on Rice +12
The Key: Off a big win over rival Boston College, and with a big game at UConn on deck, it will be easy for Harvard to look right past a Rice team it defeated 92-62 last season. Rice will be very motivated by that defeat, which gives it an opportunity to pull off the shocker against a Harvard team that will likely be napping. You want to back underdogs of 10 to 19.5 points hat have gone under the total by more than 18 points in two consecutive games as doing so has produced a 6-1 ATS mark this season, a 16-2 ATS mark the last 3 seasons and a 29-5 ATS mark the last 5 seasons. Also, Harvard is just 2-9 ATS under coach Amaker in road games after leading their last 3 games by 5 points or more at the half. Take the points.

6* Under the Radar *CA$H COW* on Louisiana-Monroe +4
The Key: This is a game ULM has circled prior to the season. It lost both games to the Ragin' Cajuns last season and will be out for some serious revenge as a result. This is a poor spot for ULL for a number of reasons. The Ragin' Cajuns are 4-13-1 ATS in their last 18 games following a win, 3-12-1 ATS in their last 16 road games and 5-15-1 ATS in their last 21 road games versus a team with a winning home record. ULL is also only 2-9 ATS off any home win the last two seasons, losing by an average score of 76.6 to 71.1 in these games. Take the points.

6* NBA Western Conference Annihilator on Nuggets -3.5
The Key: Motivated by 8 consecutive defeats, one of which being a 120-99 beatdown in Memphis Dec. 28, the Nuggets will want this game more. Denver held a team meeting following an ugly home loss to Philadelphia, and I expect maximum effort in the aftermath. Denver is 27-2 in its last 29 at home versus Memphis, including 10-1 in the last 11. The home team is 4-0 ATS in the last 4 meetings with an 8.4-point average margin of victory. Lay the points.

7* NBA Situational Slam Dunk of the Week on Hawks +3
The Key: This is a letdown spot for Golden State following last night's big win in Miami. This is also a fatigued spot for the Warriors, who are playing their third road game in four days. Atlanta will be the much fresher side as it has had two days off. The Warriors are 2-5 ATS in their last 7 games when their starting 5 players combine for more than 160 minutes the previous day and 3-9 ATS in their last 12 games following an ATS win. The Hawks have been fantastic at home where they are 8-1 in their last nine, including 5-0 in their last five. They are 5-2 ATS in their last 7 games following an ATS win, 6-1 ATS in their last 7 Friday games, 6-1 ATS in their last 7 versus the West, 4-0 ATS in their last 4 versus the Pacific division and 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games versus a team with a winning record. You want to fade road teams when the line is +3 to -3 that went over the total by more than 18 points in their last game if they carry a .600 to .750 win percentage and are matched up against a team that has a winning record. Doing so has produced an 18-2 ATS mark the last 3 seasons. Lastly, the underdog is 9-3 ATS in the last 12 meetings. Take the points.

6* NBA Eastern Conference Annihilator on Wizards -2.5
The Key: This is a sandwich game for Toronto, which is coming off a big win over Indiana and has Miami on deck. The Wizards will be out for revenge for an earlier loss in Toronto, and I like their chances considering they are 5-1 in their last 6 home games against the Raptors, winning these by an average of 10.6 points. The Wizards lost their last game to Dallas but are 7-1 ATS in their last 8 games following a SU loss, 7-0 ATS in their last 7 games following an ATS loss, 6-0 ATS in their last 6 versus the East and 4-0 ATS in their last 4 versus the Atlantic division. Lay the points.

6* NBA Situational Slam Dunk on Knicks +11
The Key: The Knicks have had four days to prepare for this game while the Spurs have had just one. The Knicks have lost three in a row by double digits and were hammered at home by the Spurs in the first meeting so New York will be lacking no motivation. San Antonio has a big revenge game against the Clippers up next so it will be very easy for it to look ahead to that contest. The Spurs are 2-7 ATS in their last 9 home games and 1-5 ATS in their last 6 games following a win of more than 10 points. You also want to fade home favorites of 10 or more points after 3 or more consecutive wins if they carry a win percentage of .750 or higher and are playing a losing team. Doing so has produced a 50-27 ATS mark the last five seasons. Take the points.

7* Big Ten Game of the Week on Northwestern +10.5
The Key: Right away, we find that the odds are in our favor as fading favorites of 10 points or more that check in with a winning streak of at least 10 games has produced a 147-96 ATS mark the last five seasons. In addition, you want to fade favorites of 10 to 19.5 points that are undefeated on the season and have covered the spread in four or five of their last six games. Doing so has produced a 35-15 ATS mark the last five seasons. Wisconsin hasn't been on the road in a month, and it is 12-22 ATS all-time under coach Ryan in road games after two consecutive covers as a favorite. Wisconsin is on a 6-16 ATS slide after three consecutive covers as a favorite and 1-5 ATS in its last six road games following three or more consecutive home games. Northwestern lost by one point to DePaul last game, but it is 8-0 ATS after a loss of 6 points or less over the last 3 seasons, winning by an average score of 74.1 to 62.9 in this spot. Wisconsin buried Northwestern by 28 when it visited last season, and the Wildcats haven't forgotten. Take the points as Northwestern gives Wisconsin a game.

6* NBA Blowout on Rockets -9.5
The Key: As if Houston's 117-86 loss in Oklahoma City isn't enough motivation, it was defeated 106-91 in Sacramento earlier this month. Expect a big bounce back from the Rockets here. The Rockets are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games following an ATS loss and 5-0 ATS in their last 5 games following a SU loss. They have bounced back from each of their last 3 defeats with wins of 15, 17 and 13 points. They are also 3-0 SU and ATS in their last 3 home games versus the Kings, winning these by an average of 14.0 points. Lay the number.

7* NCAAB *HEAVY HITTER* on Eastern Michigan +18.5
The Key: Off a big win over Villanova, Syracuse won't give its full attention to an Eastern Michigan team it defeated 84-48 last season. Eastern Mich brings back almost everyone from last year's team, and it will be out for revenge. Syracuse is on a 36-55 ATS slide in home games after a win of 15 points or more. Plus, you want to fade undefeated favorites of 10 to 19.5 points after 8 or more consecutive wins as doing so has produced a 67-36 ATS mark the last five seasons. The Eagles are 16-5 ATS in their last 21 games following an ATS loss and 6-2 ATS in their last 8 road games. Take the points.

7* NBA *HEAVY HITTER* on Nuggets +2.5
The Key: This is a tough spot for Miami, which will be playing its 4th road game in 6 days and is coming off a very emotional win in Portland. Chris Bosh and Dwyane Wade came through for the Heat against the Trail Blazers with LeBron James sitting out, but I don't see them having enough legs left here in high-altitude Denver with James unlikely to go again. Denver has lost six straight so it will be lacking no motivation. The Nuggets are 10-1 in their last 11 home games versus the Heat, and I believe their home-court will hold up. Take the Nuggets.

7* NBA *HEAVY HITTER* on Cavs +6.5
The Key: The Cavs are being undervalued at home where they have been extremely competitive. They are 8-6 at home on the season, and three of their losses have come by fewer than 6.5 points, which means they have won or lost by less than 6.5 points in 11 of 14 home games this season. That's a sweet 11-3 trend in our favor. The Cavs beat the Clippers by six points in one of their home games and played the Trail Blazers to a three-point contest in another, which proves they have what it takes to hang with the best of the West in Cleveland. The Cavaliers are 7-3 ATS in their last 10 games overall, 6-2 ATS in their last 8 home games, 5-1 ATS in their last 6 games following an ATS win, 5-1 ATS in their last 6 games versus a team with a winning record and 4-1 ATS in their last 5 versus Western Conference opponents. Take the points.

6* NBA *CA$H COW* on Bucks +7.5
The Key: Minnesota rolled at home last night against Washington, and that victory puts it in a poor spot tonight. The Timberwolves are 8-21-1 ATS in their last 30 games following a win and 16-33-3 ATS in their last 52 games following a win of more than 10 points. It is also worth noting that they are 0-5 ATS in their last 5 games when playing without a day of rest. Minnesota shouldn't be laying this many points on the road where it is just 5-11 this season. Plus, the Bucks have won or lost by fewer than 7.5 points in 10 of their last 11 home meetings against Minnesota. We'll get behind this sweet 10-1 trend. Take the points.

6* NCAAB *CA$H COW* on Hofstra +9.5
The Key: Hofstra will be lacking no motivation this afternoon as it goes up against a George Washington squad it lost to by 24 points last season. Because the Colonials rolled over the Pride so easily last season, they will be looking ahead to Tuesday's New Year's Eve showdown at Kansas State. George Washington has been an ugly investment in non-conference action at 18-40-2 ATS in its last 60 non-conference games. The Colonials are just 2-7 ATS in their last 9 versus Colonial Athletic Association foes. The Pride, on the other hand, are 4-1-1 ATS in their last 6 non-conference games. They are also 5-0-1 ATS in their last 6 games following a loss, 6-0-1 ATS in their last 7 games versus a team with a winning record and 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games versus a team with a winning percentage above .600. Take the points as Hofstra keeps this one within the number.

7* NBA *HEAVY HITTER* on Magic +3.5
The Key: The Pistons check in off a 115-92 win at Cleveland. However, you want to fade road favorites off a double-digit road win if they have a losing record on the season. Doing so has produced a 50-26 ATS mark the last five seasons. The Pistons start a home-and-home with Washington tomorrow and will be more concerned about the Wizards. The Magic, on the other hand, will be focused on the task at hand following three consecutive defeats at home. The Magic have been very competitive against the Pistons, winning or losing by less than 3.5 points in four of their last five meetings, including all three at home during this stretch. The home team is 5-2 ATS in the last 7 meetings, and the underdog is 13-6 ATS in the last 19 meetings. Take the points.

7* NBA *HEAVY HITTER* on Cavs +3
The Key: The Cavs have been very competitive at home where they are 8-5 on the season. A 115-92 home loss to Detroit in their last game can't be sitting well. Neither can a 108-89 loss in Atlanta in the season's first meeting. Motivated by the loss to Detroit and further fueled by the loss to Atlanta, Cleveland will take care of business at home against the Hawks, who are just 4-9 on the road. Underdogs off an upset loss of 10 points or more that are up against an opponent off a road cover in a game they lost straight up are 2-0 ATS this season, 6-1 ATS the last 3 seasons, 11-2 ATS the last 5 seasons and 30-8 ATS since 1996. In addition, home teams that are out for revenge for a road loss of 10 points or more and check in off an upset loss of 15 points or more are 64-31 ATS since 1996. Take the Cavs.

7* NBA *HEAVY HITTER* on Warriors -2
The Key: This game is about revenge for the Warriors, who lost the season's first meeting on the road. The home team has had the edge of late, going 4-0 SU and ATS in the last four meetings with an average winning margin of 16.3 points. The Clippers are also just 1-6 ATS in the last seven meetings at Golden State. The Clippers have an even bigger game the 26th in Portland so they could be looking ahead here. Golden State is 9-1 ATS in home games when the total is between 205.0 and 209.5 points since the beginning of last season. It has won these contests by an average score of 110.3 to 99.2. You want to fade road teams when the line is +3 to -3 that went over the total by more than 18 points in their previous game if they have a win percentage of .600 to .750 and are playing a team with a winning record. That's because doing so has produced an 18-2 ATS mark the last three seasons. Lay the points.

7* NBA Game of the Week on Nuggets -1
The Key: As if a three-game losing streak isn't enough motivation, the Nuggets will be fueled even more so by the fact Golden State sent them home in last season's playoffs. Look for Denver to have its revenge at home, where it is 18-3 in the last 21 meetings with Golden State. The Warriors have a big Christmas game against the Clippers, and that's a revenge game so I believe they'll be looking ahead. The Warriors handled the Lakers last time out, but they are 0-4 ATS in their last 4 games following a SU win and 0-4 ATS in their last 4 games following an ATS win. Take Denver.

6* NBA *TOP DOG* on Nets +7
The Key: Indiana will come into this game overconfident following back-to-back blowout victories and knowing Brook Lopez is out. The Nets will be the more motivated team following back-to-back defeats and a 5-point loss to the Pacers in the first meeting. They will also be the fresher side as they have had two days off while Indiana played last night. The Pacers are 0-4 ATS in their last 4 games when playing without a day of rest while the Nets are 8-2 ATS in their last 10 games when playing on 2 days' rest. The Pacers are also on a dismal 4-15 ATS skid in road games after 2 straight blowout wins by 15 points or more. They have lost by an average score of 99.3 to 92.9 in this situation. Take the points.

6* NBA *CA$H COW* on Celtics +12.5
The Key: Off back-to-back defeats and out to avenge a 97-82 loss to Indiana in the season's first meeting, Boston will be lacking no motivation when it takes the floor this evening. The Pacers are off a 114-81 win over Houston, but you want to fade favorites of 10 points or more if they held their last opponent to 85 points or less. Doing so has produced a 409-294 ATS mark since 1996. This system is 53-31 ATS the last 3 seasons and 7-4 ATS this season. The Pacers are 1-4 ATS in their last 5 games following a SU win. The Celtics are 5-1 ATS in their last 6 games following an ATS loss and 5-2 ATS in their last 7 road games versus a team with a winning home record. The Celtics are 3-0 ATS this season as underdogs of 12 points or more while the Pacers are 1-3 ATS as a favorite of 12 points or more this season. Take the points.

6* National TV Annihilator (ESPNU) on New Mexico +2.5
The Key: Marquette checks in off back-to-back blowout wins over IUPUI and Ball State. However, it is 0-6 ATS after 2 straight wins of 10 points or more over the last 2 seasons, losing by an average of 7.0 points in this spot. New Mexico got kicked by Kansas and followed up that game with an apathetic performance at home against a New Mexico State team it had already defeated by nine on the road. Rest assured, a bounce-back is coming from this experienced New Mexico squad, and I believe it happens right here. The Lobos are 6-0 ATS after having lost 2 of their last 3 games over the last 3 seasons, winning by an average of 18.3 points in this spot. It is also worth noting that New Mexico is 8-1 ATS in games when the line is +3 to -3 over the last 3 seasons. Take the points.

6* NBA *CA$H COW* on Jazz +4.5
The Key: Motivated by last night's embarrassing loss in Atlanta, the Jazz will take their frustrations out on a Charlotte team they have owned. Utah is 8-0 in the last eight meetings, winning them by 11.0 points on average. The Bobcats used a lot of energy in last night's comeback win in Detroit while the Jazz didn't have a single player over 30 minutes in a game that was over early. This is also Charlotte's 4th game in 5 days while it is Utah's 4th game in 7 days so the Jazz should be the fresher team. The Bobcats are 14-31 ATS in their last 45 games when playing without a day of rest. Charlotte is improved, but it has also benefited from playing in the weak Eastern Conference. It has really struggled against the West, going 15-37-1 ATS in its last 53 non-conference contests. Take the points.

7* NCAAB Non-Conference Blowout Game of the Year on Virginia -10.5
The Key: Back home, motivated by back-to-back upset defeats and having had two weeks to prepare, expect Virginia to give Northern Iowa a beating. The Panthers pulled off an upset of VCU in their last game but are 0-5 ATS in their last five games following an ATS win. That win came at home. Things haven't gone as smoothly for Northern Iowa on the road where it is 0-4 SU and ATS in its last four. The Cavaliers are a perfect 7-0 ATS all-time at home when laying 9.5 to 12.0 points under coach Tony Bennett. They have won these contests by an average of 24.0 points. Lay the number.

7* NBA *HEAVY HITTER* on Kings +11
The Key: The Heat won't give Sacramento their full attention following a big come from behind win over the Pacers. Expect Miami to just go through the motions here. You want to fade Friday night home favorites of 10 or more points that check in off a home win as doing so has produced a 44-18 ATS mark the last 5 seasons. This system tightens up to 32-11 ATS if the team we are fading checks in off 3 or more consecutive wins. You also want to back Friday night road underdogs of 10 or more points that check in off a double-digit road loss as doing so has produced a 38-13 ATS mark the last 5 seasons. The Heat are just 32-49 ATS when laying double-digits under Spoelstra. They are 1-7 ATS in their last 8 home games versus a team with a road winning percentage less than .400. The Kings are 9-3 ATS in their last 12 games versus a team with a winning percentage above .600. Take the points.

6* NCAAB Annihilator on Georgia State -12.5
The Key: This game is all about revenge for Georgia State, which returns four starters from a team that was upset at Georgia Southern last season. Home court has been huge in this series as the home team is 4-0 SU and ATS in the last four meetings. Georgia State won both of its home games during this stretch by 20 points. The Eagles haven't been a good investment on the road where they are 0-4 ATS in their last four overall and 0-4 ATS in their last four versus teams with a winning home record. Georgia Southern was fantastic defensively Wednesday, holding Kennesaw State to 55 points in a blowout win. However, the Eagles are 0-6 ATS in road games after allowing 55 points or less over the last three seasons, losing by an average of 19.7 points in this spot. Lay the points.

6* NCAAB Line Mistake on Texas State +15
The Key: This line is an overreaction to Utah's blowout win over BYU and Texas State's lopsided loss to Texas. Texas State returns four starters from a team that lost to Utah by only 5 points last season despite shooting a pathetic 36.9% and allowing the Utes to shoot 53.1%. The Bobcats stayed in that game by dominating the offensive glass, and that's something they are very capable of doing again here. Texas State is on a 13-3 ATS run in road games after a loss by 10 points or more. Also, you want to fade December favorites of 10 or more points if they have a shooting percentage of 52% or higher on the season. Doing so has produced a 30-11 ATS mark the last 5 seasons. Take the points.

7* NBA *HEAVY HITTER* on Bulls +13.5
The Key: The Bulls were thumped in Houston last night, but I expect them to respond. This veteran team has a lot of pride and hasn't forgotten that it was crushed by 30 points the last time in visited Oklahoma City. It knows it needs to show up or it will be embarrassed again. The haunting memory of that defeat provides ample motivation. The Thunder are off a big win in Denver, and they have a big game in San Antonio on deck so they won't give this struggling Chicago team their full attention. The time to start fading this hot OKC squad is now as it is just 13-28 ATS after 5 or more consecutive wins under coach Brooks. The Thunder are also only 2-6 ATS in their last 8 games versus a team with a winning percentage below .400. You want to fade favorites of 10 or more points after 6 or more consecutive wins if they have a winning record on the season and are playing a losing team. Doing so has produced a 46-18 ATS mark the last 5 seasons. You also want to back underdogs of 10 or more points that have been beaten by a total of 18 points or more ATS in their last 3 games if they have a win percentage of 25-40% and are playing a winning team. Doing so has produced a 44-17 ATS mark the last 5 seasons. Take the points.

6* NCAAB *CA$H COW* on Auburn +6.5
The Key: Fueled by back-to-back ugly losses to Iowa State and Illinois, Auburn will respond tonight. The Auburn Tigers are on a 13-3 ATS run following 2 straight double-digit losses. Teams headed up by Clemson coach Brad Brownell are a dismal 1-9 ATS as a road favorite of 6.5 to 9 points. It's tough enough to win on the road in college basketball, and Brownell's half-court offense isn't conducive to big wins on the road. Clemson has been outstanding defensively, but Auburn has been good offensively at home. It should dominate the free throw battle as it averages 23 made free throws at home while Clemson only takes an average of 18. Take the points.

6* NBA Bailout on Pelicans +10.5
The Key: The Pelicans by 11 at Golden State last night. However, you want to back road underdogs of 10 points or more if they have a losing record and check in off a road loss of 10 points or more. Doing so has produced a 100-58 ATS mark the last five seasons. In addition, the Pelicans are an impressive 26-7-1 ATS in their last 34 games following a loss of more than 10 points. The Clippers are coming off a big double-digit upset win over the Spurs. But, teams headed up by Doc Rivers are just 4-15 ATS in home games following an upset victory of 10 points or more. The Pelicans are 20-6 ATS in the last 26 meetings, including 9-3 ATS in the last 12 meetings in Los Angeles. Take the points.

7* NBA Humpday *HEAVY HITTER* on Jazz +3.5
The Key: The Jazz see this game as an excellent opportunity to get back in the win column, and they'll go after it with all they've got. While its record would lead you to believe otherwise, Utah is a better team than the Magic. It has been hurt by playing in the superior Western Conference. The Jazz are just 2-6 in their last 8 games, but five of their losses during this stretch came to Indiana, Portland (twice), San Antonio and Miami. The Magic are 1-7 ATS in their last 8 home games. They are also 2-15 ATS when laying points under coach Vaughn. The Jazz are 5-0 in their last five games against the Magic. Take the points.

6* NCAAB *Upset Alert* on Ohio +3.5
The Key: Ohio has been flat out awesome at home, going 44-3 in its last 47 home games, including 7-0 in its last seven. The three defeats during this stretch came in OT, by 1 point and 3 points. The Bobcats are on a 16-5 ATS run as a home underdog of 6 points or less, winning by an average score of 71.2 to 67.6 in this spot. The Bobcats are also 20-7 ATS in their last 27 non-conference games and 25-10 ATS in their last 35 home games versus a team with a winning road record. Look for Ohio to hand UMass its first defeat of the season.

6* NCAAB *CA$H COW* on Arkansas State +1.5
The Key: I expect Arkansas State to hand Toledo its first loss here. The Red Wolves have been unbeatable of late at home where they are on a 9-0 run. They are 20-2 at home dating back to 2011-12 season. Arkansas State is coming off a loss at Nebraska, but it is 23-12 ATS in home games after playing a road contest under coach John Brady. It is also 13-5 ATS under Brady in home games against poor defensive teams like Toledo that allow opponents to shoot 45% or higher from the field. Take Arkansas State.

7* NBA *HEAVY HITTER* on Cavaliers +5
The Key: The Cavs aren't getting the respect they deserve at home where they have won four straight and are 7-3 on the season. They defeated the Clippers 88-82 Dec. 7 so they have shown they can take care of business against elite competition in Cleveland. The Cavs will be the fresher team tonight as they have had two days of rest while the Trail Blazers will be playing their third road game in four days, and they were pushed to overtime in their last game. The Cavaliers are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games overall, 4-0 ATS in their last 4 home games, 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games versus a team with a winning record and 4-0 ATS in their last 4 Tuesday games. The Trail Blazers are 0-7 ATS in their last 7 Tuesday games. Take the points.

6* NBA *CA$H COW* on Hawks -5
The Key: The Hawks went down at the Knicks last game, but they are a perfect 7-0 ATS this season following a road loss. Look for this trend to continue against an L.A. squad that's really hurting in the backcourt. With Steve Nash, Jordan Farmar and Steve Blake all out with injuries, Kobe Bryant has been forced to play bigger minutes sooner than the Lakers would have liked. He's also been forced to handle the ball a lot more, which hasn't been a good thing since he's showing rust with 25 turnovers. Look for the Hawks to pressure Bryant to wear him out and force him into miscues. The Lakers are 11-22 ATS as a road underdog over the last 2 seasons and 16-30 ATS as an underdog of 3.5 to 9.5 points over the last 3 seasons. The home team is 9-3 ATS in the last 12 meetings, and the Lakers are 1-4 ATS in the last 5 meetings in Atlanta. Lay the points.

7* NBA Game of the Week on Kings +6.5
The Key: Motivated by back-to-back defeats and further fueled by two straight losses to Houston, the Kings will be ready to roll when they hit the floor Sunday evening. Houston will be fatigued as this will be its third road game in four days. The Kings should be the fresher side as they have had a day off in between each of their last four games. Prior to an ugly performance against Utah in their last home game, the Kings had won or lost by fewer than 6.5 points in six straight at home. This stretch included games against the Suns, Clippers, Warriors, Thunder, Lakers and Mavs. The Rockets are 4-13-1 ATS in their last 18 road games versus a team with a losing home record while the Kings are 5-0 ATS in their last 5 home games versus a team with a winning road record. Take the points.

7* NCAAB Game of the Week on South Dakota State +5
The Key: This game is all about revenge for the South Dakota State Jackrabbits, who were embarrassed at Belmont in last year's meeting. I expect a much different result with South Dakota State playing host as it is 7-0 ATS in home games when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 3 seasons. It is also 5-0 ATS in its last 5 home games versus a team with a winning road record and 6-0 ATS in home games versus good shooting teams that make 45% of their shots or better over the last 3 seasons. Belmont comes into this one overconfident following a big upset win at Middle Tennessee State. Plus, I expect it to show some rust having not played since Dec. 3. The Bruins are 6-18 ATS in road games after 1 or more consecutive wins over the last 3 seasons and 9-19 ATS in road games after a win by 10 points or more under coach Byrd. Take South Dakota State.

6* NCAAB National TV Annihilator (ESPN) on Notre Dame +5
The Key: Expect Notre Dame to respond following an ugly upset loss at home to North Dakota State. The Fighting Irish are a perfect 7-0 ATS the last 2 seasons after playing 3 consecutive games as a home favorite. The Hoosiers check in off a blowout win over Oakland, but they are just 2-9 ATS when playing away from home under coach Crean after a blowout win of 20 points or more. They are only 10-19 ATS under Crean in road/neutral floor games versus non-conference opponents. Take the points.

7* NBA *HEAVY HITTER* on Pistons -5.5
The Key: This is a tough spot for Brooklyn as it goes on the road following last night's big win over the Clippers. That was a statement game for a Nets squad that has been a disappointment to this point, and the big win sets Brooklyn up for a letdown. The Nets lost the season's first meeting with Detroit 109-97 at home, but it's not like that loss has been eating away at them. Brooklyn feels like it is the superior team and won't draw any added motivation from the earlier defeat in this spot. The Pistons, on the other hand, will be extremely motivated because they have lost three in a row. They should also be a little more rested having had last night off. You want to fade underdogs that are out for revenge for a double-digit home loss to an opponent if that foe checks in off a road defeat. Doing so has produced an 88-46 ATS mark the last five seasons. Teams fitting these parameters have lost by an average of 11.0 points. It is also worth noting that the Pistons are on an 8-0 ATS run versus Atlantic division opponents. Lay the points.

6* NCAAB *CA$H COW* on Denver +8.5
The Key: You want to fade home teams that return one of no starters when they check in off a blowout win of 30 points or more. Doing so has produced a 29-10 ATS mark the last five seasons. You also want to back road underdogs or pickems that return two starters in the first 10 games after a game where they were held to 25 points or less in the first half. Doing so has produced a 106-56 ATS mark the last five seasons. Denver will be lacking no motivation as it looks to snap a 4-game losing streak in the series. The Pioneers have won or lost by fewer than 8.5 points in 7 of the last 8 meetings, including 3 straight at Colorado State. The Rams are 1-10-1 ATS in their last 12 games following a win and 2-7-1 ATS in their last 10 home games. The underdog is 6-2 ATS in the last 8 meetings. Take the points.

7* NBA *HEAVY HITTER* on Celtics +6.5
The Key: The Celtics needed no added motivated for this game as they will be facing their old coach, but they got it with last night's loss in Brooklyn. Expect to see a very charged-up Boston squad tonight. The Celtics are 5-2 ATS in their last 7 games when playing without a day of rest. Plus, the Clippers could actually be more fatigued as they will be playing their 5th road game in 8 days with a short bench. The Celtics are a perfect 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games following an ATS loss. They are also on a 15-3 ATS run at home versus poor defensive teams that allow 99+ points/game. The Clippers have struggled on the road where they are just 6-6 and have won by more than 6 points only 3 times. Boston has won its last 3 at home, and the underdog is 8-1 ATS in the last 9 meetings. Take the points.

6* NBA Line Mistake on Magic +6.5
The Key: The books are giving Charlotte a little too much respect tonight. The Magic see this game as a chance to end their six-game skid, and they'll go after it with all they've got. Orlando will be further fueled by losses in its last three games against Charlotte. Two of those defeats came by fewer than 6.5 points. In fact, Orlando has won or lost by less than 6.5 points in 25 of the last 28 meetings. That's a 25-3 trend I'll gladly get behind. The Bobcats upset the Warriors last time out and are just 5-17 ATS following an upset win since the start of last season. They also have a big game at Indiana up next so they could easily be looking ahead. The road team is 8-2 ATS in the last 10 meetings, and the underdog is 6-1 ATS in the last 7 meetings. Take the points.

7* NCAAB *HEAVY HITTER* (ESPN2) on West Virginia +3
The Key: This is a game West Virginia had circled prior to the season. The Mountaineers will be out for blood tonight as they are fueled by the memory of last season's 84-50 loss to Gonzaga. Now is the time to fade the Bulldogs. They are 2-9 ATS after 3 straight wins of 10 points or more over the last 2 seasons and 4-13 ATS in road games after 2 straight wins of 10 points or more over the last 3 seasons. West Virginia has performed well at home where it is 5-0 this season. It is also more battle-tested than Gonzaga, having played a tougher schedule thus far with games against Wisconsin and Missouri. The Mountaineers have had more time to prepare for this contest as well. Take the points as WVU has an excellent opportunity to win this one outright.

7* NBA *HEAVY HITTER* on Wizards +2
The Key: This is an extremely tough spot for Denver, which will be playing its sixth road game in nine days. I expect the Nuggets to be feeling the effects of this gruesome stretch. To make matters worse, there's a good chance they'll be without Ty Lawson, who is listed as doubtful with a hamstring injury. The Wizards have had two days of rest and will be playing for just the third time this month. All of these games have been at home so they haven't had to endure the extra fatigue that comes with travel. While Nene is expected to miss, I don't think it will matter as John Wall should have a big game without Lawson tiring him out on the defensive end. The Wizards are 24-11 ATS in their last 35 home games, 4-0 ATS in their last four games after allowing 100 points or more in their previous game and 4-0 ATS in their last four games following an ATS loss. The Wizards are also 3-0 ATS in their last three versus Denver, winning the last two outright as an underdog.

6* NBA *CA$H COW* on Raptors +6
The Key: Toronto doesn't help itself by getting many points off turnovers as it averages just 7 steals per game. However, it should still be able to keep this one within the number given how much the Lakers are being overvalued here. Odds makers overvalue a very public L.A. team at home constantly. As a result, the Lakers are 0-8 ATS in home games versus teams who average 7 or less steals per game under D'Antoni. This trend also indicates that teams that don't gamble a lot defensively have had a lot of success defending the Lakers. Toronto has been very competitive with L.A. lately, winning or losing by fewer than 6 points in 6 of the last 7 meetings. 4 of these games were decided by 2 points or less. Kobe Bryant is expected to make his debut although it is uncertain how many minutes he will play. Initially, I expect his presence on the court to throw a hitch in the Lakers' giddy-up as they have been used to playing without him, and the ball tends to stop when it hits his hands, disrupting the flow of the offense. Take the points.

6* NBA *CA$H COW* on Cavaliers +6.5
The Key: Look for the Cavs to cover this number at home where they are 5-3 this season, including 2-0 against the West. Leading the charge will be Kyrie Irving, who I fully expect to bounce-back after being held scoreless for the first time in his career. The Cavs played last night but have won three of their last four in the second game of back-to-backs. Los Angeles is 0-3 on the road against the East. The Cavs are 11-2 in the last 13 meetings overall and 10-1 in the last 11 meetings at home. Take the points.

6* NCAAB *CA$H COW* on Northeastern -1
The Key: UAB took down North Carolina in its last game, but now it plays its first true road game of the season. Following that big win, the Blazers won't give Northeastern the attention it deserves. A 20-point win over the Huskies last December will help UAB look right past them tonight. That game was at home, however. UAB hasn't been the same team on the road where it is 4-11 in last 15 true road games. Northeastern has a win over Georgetown, and it has prepared itself for this revenge contests by playing a challenging schedule. The Blazers are 3-8 ATS in their last 11 games overall, 2-6 ATS in their last 8 games following a win, 6-15 ATS in their last 21 road games and 10-21 ATS in their last 31 non-conference games. The Blazers are also 2-9 ATS in road games since the start of last season versus good shooting teams that make 45% or more of their shots. They have lost to these teams by an average score of 76.5 to 67.6. The Huskies are 16-5 ATS in their last 21 games following an ATS loss. Take Northeastern.

7* NBA *HEAVY HITTER* on Jazz +11.5
The Key: Expect a letdown from Portland following back-to-back wins over the Pacers and Thunder. After defeating those giants, it will be very difficult for the Trail Blazers to get up for the lowly Jazz. They'll likely be looking right past Utah to tomorrow's showdown with 12-8 Dallas. The Jazz have quietly covered the spread in eight of their last 12 games and have been a different team since rookie Trey Burke started logging big minutes. You want to fade favorites of 10 points or more on Friday night if they check in off a home win. Doing so has produced a 47-17 ATS record the last five seasons. These teams have been favored by an average of 12.2 points but have won by only 8.8 points on average. This system is 20-5 ATS the last three seasons. You also want to back road underdogs of 10 points or more on Friday nights if they are coming off one of more consecutive losses. Doing so has produced a 72-32 ATS mark the last five seasons. These teams have been underdogs of 12.2 points on average but have lost by an average of 9.6. Take the points.

6* NCAAB *CA$H COW* on Cal-Santa Barbara +2.5
The Key: This is Cal's first true road game of the season, and I don't expect it to make it out alive. Cal won last season's meeting by nine points at home, but things will go differently on the road against a dangerous Santa Barbara squad. Star center Alan Williams can't be tamed. The Gauchos are 3-1 this season with him in the lineup, and he's averaging 27.5 points and 10.8 rebounds. The Gauchos lost by 13 at UCLA last time out in a game that was closer than the final score looks, but they are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games following a loss and 31-19 ATS off a road loss of 10 points or more under coach Bob Williams. Here's the clincher. UCSB is a perfect 6-0 ATS in home games on Friday nights under Williams, winning these by an average score of 75.0 to 61.8. Take the points.

7* NCAAB *HEAVY HITTER* on Eastern Kentucky +16
The Key: VCU relies on creating turnovers to facilitate its offense, but Eastern Kentucky doesn't turn it over. The Colonels have committed 11 or fewer turnovers in seven of their eight games. This is significant because VCU is 0-7 ATS the last two seasons versus teams that average 12.0 turnovers or less per game. The Rams have actually lost by an average of 2.0 points to these teams. Eastern Kentucky checks in off a 19-point loss at NC State that was much closer than the score leads you to believe (trailed by three w/ six minutes remaining). Still, the way the loss looks benefits us as it has given us a better number than we would have gotten otherwise. The Colonels are 7-0 ATS in road games following a road loss over the last three seasons, winning by an average score of 66.8 to 62.4 in these contests. E. Kentucky is a fantastic 19-6 ATS as a double-digit underdog under coach Neubauer. It is 13-4 ATS under Neubauer as a road underdog of 12.5 or more points. It is also worth noting that VCU is 6-15 ATS as a home favorite of 12.5 or more points under Shaka Smart. The Colonels are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games following a loss and 4-0 ATS in their last 4 versus Atlantic-10 foes. The Rams are 0-4 ATS in their last 4 home games. Take the points.

6* NBA Revenge Rout on Bucks +4.5
The Key: Milwaukee was crushed 113-94 in Detroit Nov. 25, and that loss will be all the motivation it needs here. The Bucks have the good fortune of catching Detroit at just the right time. The Pistons are riding high off last night's win in Miami, setting them up for a letdown. While both teams played last night, this is Detroit's third game in four days. Milwaukee had two days off prior to playing last night so it should be a little fresher. You want to fade favorites like Detroit that check in off a double-digit road win if they have a losing record. Doing so has produced a 47-24 ATS mark the last five seasons. You also want to back underdogs like Milwaukee that have failed to covered the spread in 12 or more of their last 15 games when they're up against a team that has covered the number in four or five of their last six games. Doing so has produced a 69-35 ATS mark since 1996. Take the points.

6* NCAAB *CA$H COW* on Penn +18
The Key: This line is an overreaction to Villanova's recent win over Iowa in the Battle 4 Atlantis championship game. Penn lost to Iowa by 31. However, that game was in Iowa City. Villanova played Iowa on a neutral floor and actually trailed the Hawkeyes by double-digits halfway through the second half before it became unconscious from three-point range. The Wildcats are not a very good three-point shooting team, but they made 14 three-pointers for the game. They are averaging just 31.4% shooting from three on the season, but that doesn't keep them from attempting an average of 26 per game. Nova's three-point shooting volume plays right into Penn's hands as the Quakers have defended the three pretty well, holding opponents to 32.8%. Consider that Penn is 6-0 ATS in road games versus teams who attempt an average of 21 or more three-point shots per game over the last 3 seasons. It has lost these games but only by 3.3 points on average. You also want to fade favorites of 10 to 19.5 points that are undefeated on the season if they have covered the spread in four or five of their last six games. Doing so has produced a 30-12 ATS mark the last 5 seasons. Penn has played Nova to within 12, 8 and 13 points the last three seasons, and I expect a similar result tonight.

7* NBA Situational Game of the Week on Cavaliers +4.5
The Key: This is an extremely unfavorable situation for Denver, which will be playing its second road game in as many nights and its third in four days. The Cavs have three full days of preparation and fresh legs on their side, and that gives them a sizable advantage. The Nuggets are 0-4 ATS in their last 4 games when playing without a day of rest. They are also 4-10 ATS in their last 14 games versus a team with a losing record. You want to back underdogs like Cleveland that have failed to cover the number in 12 or more of their last 15 games when they're matched up with an opponent that have covered the spread in four of their last five games. That's because doing so has produced a 36-13 ATS mark since 1996. Take the points.

6* NBA Line Mistake on Nets +5
The Key: The Nets picked up a much-needed, confidence-boosting win at Memphis last time out, and I expect them to carry the momentum into tonight. The season hasn't started the way Brooklyn envisioned, but it has been plagued by injuries and has played a road-heavy, challenging schedule. Still, the Nets are just 1.5 games out of first in the Atlantic division so they can remain positive knowing they can make a huge run once their health returns. They'll have Joe Johnson, Brook Lopez, Kevin Garnett and Andre Blatche tonight, and this core should not be catching this many points at home against a road-weary Nuggets squad that's playing on the road for the fourth time in five games. Plus, the Nuggets have had just one day of rest in between each of their last seven games. Brooklyn has had two days to gear up for this one and the extra rest should treat it well. The Nets are 6-1 ATS in their last 7 games when playing on 2 days' rest. The home team has dominated this series, going 6-0 in the last 6 meetings with a 12.5-point average winning margin. The Nets are 11-4 in their last 15 home games against the Nuggets with their last two wins coming by 16 and 11 points. Take the points.

6* NCAAB *CA$H COW* on Eastern Michigan +6
The Key: I expect UMass to come out flat in its first true road game of the season following an eight-day layoff. Eastern Michigan brings a lot of confidence into this one after testing Kentucky on the road. Plus, it will be hungry to avenge last season's 75-61 loss at UMass. Eastern Mich is 6-0 in its last six home games and has won or lost by fewer than six points in a ridiculous 40 of its last 45 home games. UMass has performed well defensively in the early going. However, E. Mich is 6-0 ATS in home games the last 2 seasons versus good defensive teams that hold opponents to an average of 42% shooting or worse. The Eagles have won these games by an average score of 60.8 to 54.2. Take the points.

6* NBA *CA$H COW* on Jazz +8
The Key: Expect a letdown from the Rockets following a big win in San Antonio that ended a seven-game road losing streak in the series. In addition, Houston has been far from dominant on the road where it hasn't won by more than seven points in its last five games. Houston won by 11 in Utah earlier this season. That comfortable victory, and the huge win over the Spurs, will make it rather easy for the Rockets not to give Utah their full attention. The Jazz have quietly covered the spread in seven of their last 10, and they are a different team with Trey Burke in the lineup. The rookie has averaged nearly 16.0 points while helping the Jazz with two of their last three. The Rockets are 4-12-1 ATS in their last 17 road games versus a team with a losing home record while the Jazz are 14-6 ATS in their last 20 home games versus a team with a winning road record. Take the points.

6* NCAAB *CA$H COW* on UAB +7
The Key: North Carolina is feeling pretty good about itself after upsetting Louisville. And with Michigan State on deck, the Tar Heels will have a tough time focusing on the task at hand, especially since they defeated UAB 102-84 last season. That game was in Chapel Hill, and I expect things to go much differently in Birmingham. This is the Tar Heels' first true road game of the season, and it comes against a team that will be very prepared for them. UAB head man Jerod Haase spent 13 years as an assistant to Roy Williams so he knows everything that Williams will throw at the Blazers. UAB is tough to beat at home where it has won 11 of its last 15. Furthermore, the Blazers have won or lost by fewer than 7 points in 11 straight home games. Now that's a perfect 11-0 trend I can get behind. Additionally, the Blazers have lost by more than 7 points just once in their last 35 home games. Take the points.

6* NBA Situational *CA$H COW* on Wizards -3.5
The Key: This is a tough situation for the Hawks, who will be playing the second game of a back-to-back and their fourth game in five days after spending a lot of energy in last night's come-from-behind win over Dallas. The Wizards also played last night, but they didn't spend nearly as much energy in a lopsided loss to the Pacers. Plus, the Wizards are an impressive 19-7 ATS in their last 26 games when playing without a day of rest while the Hawks are 1-5 ATS in their last six games when their starting five players combine for more than 160 minutes the previous day. You also want to back favorites of 3.5 to 9.5 points following a blowout loss of 20 points or more if they average 98-102 ppg and are matched up against a team that allows 98-102 ppg. Doing so has produced a 38-12 ATS mark since 1996. This system is a perfect 4-0 ATS the last 3 seasons. Lay the points.

7* NBA Game of the Week on Pistons -5
The Key: The Pistons fit perfectly into an extremely lucrative system that tells us to take home teams that are out for revenge for a road loss of 10 points or more to an opponent if they also check in off an upset defeat of 15 points or more. Doing so has produced a 64-30 ATS mark since 1996. The Lakers are a dismal 8-21 as a road dog going back to the start of last season as well as a soft 9-19 ATS as an underdog of 3.5 to 9.5 points during the same time frame. In addition, L.A. is a pitiful 1-11 ATS in road games off an upset win over the last 3 seasons, losing by an average score of 104 to 92.1 in this spot. Lastly, the home team is 5-0 ATS in the last 5 meetings. Lay the points.

6* NCAAB *CA$H COW* on Texas State pk
The Key: Look for Texas State to pick up its first win of the season here. First off, Tulane is a miserable 3-18 ATS in games when the line is +3 to -3 under coach Ed Conroy. The Green Wave are also on a 6-17 ATS slide as an underdog and 0-4 ATS in their last 4 games following a double-digit loss at home. Texas State is 7-0 ATS when playing away from home after 4 or more consecutive losses and 4-0 ATS in its last 4 neutral site games. Take Texas State.

7* NBA Humpday *HEAVY HITTER* on Timberwolves -6
The Key: Motivated by back-to-back defeats and further fueled by a 117-113 loss at Denver in the season's first meeting, the Timberwolves will be all business when they take the floor tonight. Minnesota is 6-2 at home and hasn't lost three consecutive games this season. The two previous times it has dropped two in a row this season, it responded with a 116-108 home win over Dallas and a 111-81 home win over Brooklyn. The Nuggets are just 2-4 on the road and 2-7 ATS in their last 9 road games versus a team with a winning home record. Denver is also 2-14 ATS in road games after scoring 55 points or more in the first half in 2 straight games over the last 3 seasons. It has lost by an average of 7.7 points in this situation. The Timberwolves are 15-5-1 ATS in their last 21 games following a loss, 7-2 ATS in their last 9 games following a loss of more than 10 points, 4-1 ATS in their last 5 home games and 4-1 ATS in their last 5 home games versus a team with a losing road record. Take Minnesota.

6* NBA *TOP DOG* on Bobcats +8.5
The Key: The Pacers are getting too much respect on the road against a much improved Charlotte club. Indiana is 5-1 on the road, but only one of these wins came by more than 8 points. It's not like the Pacers have been playing elite competition either. Their road games have been against New Orleans (6-8), Detroit (6-8), Brooklyn (4-10), Chicago (6-7), New York (3-10) and Boston (6-10). Charlotte has been completely embarrassed the last two times it's faced the Pacers so it will bring a little something extra to the court tonight. The Bobcats are 11-4 ATS in their last 15 versus Eastern Conference opponents as well as 6-0 ATS in their last 6 versus NBA Central division foes. The Bobcats are also 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games following a defeat. Take the points.

7* NCAAB *HEAVY HITTER* on Weber State +2.5
The Key: Weber State will be extremely motivated and well prepared when it takes the floor tonight. The Wildcats will be hungry for their first win as they lace 'em up on their home floor for the first time this season. They will also be hungry to avenge last season's 10-point loss at Utah State. The Wildcats haven't played since Nov. 16 so they have had a lot of time to prepare for this game. Weber State is on a 16-3 ATS run at home when the line is +3 to -3. It's on an 8-1 ATS run off 2 or more consecutive road losses and a 20-3 ATS run off a road loss of 10 points or more. The Wildcats are also 6-0 ATS all-time under coach Randy Rahe after a blowout loss of 20 points or more. They have won by an average score of 73.2 to 64.7 in this spot. Take the points.

6* NCAAB National TV Annihilator on Cal +4
The Key: Cal will want this game just a little bit more as it seeks revenge for last season's six-point loss to Syracuse in the NCAA Tournament. Syracuse is off to a 5-0 start, but this is not yet the same that went deep in the Big Dance last season. Gone are Brandon Triche, James Southerland and Michael Carter-Williams. The Golden Bears bring back more experience and have the motivational edge. The Golden Bears are 7-0 ATS in their last 7 games versus a team with a winning percentage above .600. Take the points.

6* NBA *CA$H COW* on Timberwolves +7
The Key: You want to fade home teams like Indiana that outscore their opponents by 9.0 points or more per game and are matched up against an opponent that allowed 105 points or more in its last game. Doing so has produced an eye-popping 31-4 ATS record the last 5 seasons. This system is 3-0 ATS this season. Minnesota is just 2-5 on the road, but four of those losses came by 4 points or less. The T-wolves lost by 11 at Houston in their last game, but they are 27-14 ATS after a loss of 10 points or more under coach Adelman. Take the points.

6* NCAAB *CA$H COW* on South Florida +9.5
The Key: This line is an overreaction to Oklahoma State's 101-80 rout of No. 11 Memphis, during which Marcus Smart scored a career-high 39 points. I expect a much different fate for the Cowboys tonight as they venture out on the road for the first time this season. The Cowboys are 1-9-1 ATS in their last 11 road games following three or more consecutive home games. In addition, teams headed up by Travis Ford are 0-9 ATS all-time in road games after two straight wins of 15 points or more. His teams have lost by an average of 11.4 points in this situation. USF played the Cowboys to a 12-point game on the road last season, holding them to just 61 points so it will be lacking no confidence as it looks to return the favor at home. Take the points.

6* NBA *CA$H COW* on Bulls +7
The Key: Rose is out indefinitely with a meniscus tear, but the Bulls have been through this before and will rise to the occasion in his absence. The Bulls have had a day of rest while the Clippers will be playing their second game in as many days and their fourth in five days so I believe Chicago will have more energy to exert at the defensive end. The Bulls have been the better investment of late as they have covered the spread in five of their last seven games while the Clippers are just 2-5 ATS in their last seven. Chicago is an impressive 55-36 ATS after one or more consecutive losses under coach Thibodeau. It is also 26-10 ATS under coach Thibs following a loss of six points or less. The Bulls have won or lost by less than 7 points or less in 8 of the last 11 meetings with the Clippers. Take the points.

6* NBA *CA$H COW* on Magic +13.5
The Key: Orlando will be the much more motivated team tonight after getting clubbed by Miami in its last game. Even with that loss, Orlando has won or played the Heat to within 13 points in 13 of the last 15 meetings. I expect a lackadaisical performance from the Heat here as it will be very difficult for the two-time defending champs to get their juices flowing for a team they just crushed. The Heat are 2-8 ATS in their last 10 games following a win of more than 10 points. You want to fade home favorites of 10 or more points that have a win percentage of .750 or greater after 3 or more consecutive wins when they are playing a team with a losing record. Doing so has produced a 45-20 ATS mark the last 5 seasons. Teams fitting into this situation have been favored by 12.8 points on average but have won by just 9.2. You also want to back underdogs of 10 or more points that have a win percentage of .250 to .400 if they have been beaten by the spread by 18 or more points total in their last three games when they are playing a team with a winning record. That's because doing so has produced a 42-16 ATS mark the last 5 seasons. Teams fitting this situation have been underdogs of 12.2 points on average but have lost by just 9.7. Take Orlando.

6* NCAAB *CA$H COW* on Iona -4
The Key: You want to fade road underdogs or pickems, like George Mason, in the first 10 games of the season that return all five starters and held their last opponent to 55 points or less. Doing so has produced a 29-7 ATS mark the last 5 seasons. Teams fitting these parameters have lost by 12.1 points on average. This system is 13-2 ATS the last 3 seasons and 2-0 ATS already this season. George Mason is off to a 4-0 start but is just 3-12 ATS following 3 or more consecutive wins over the last 3 seasons. Iona played Kansas last and should benefit from having stepped on the floor with arguably the most talented team in the country. George Mason hasn't seen a team nearly as talented as Kansas, and it takes a big step up in competition here. Lay the points.

6* NBA *CA$H COW* (ESPN) on Grizzlies +1.5
The Key: Memphis has rebounded following a slow start and is now ready to get a little revenge against the Spurs. San Antonio swept the Grizzlies in last season's playoffs and then beat them in the season's first meeting so this is a game Memphis wants badly. The Grizzlies are 9-0 ATS since the start of last season versus excellent teams that shooting 46% or better and hold opponents to 43% shooting or worse. They have defeated these teams by an average score of 95.7 to 89.4. Also, the Spurs are 0-4 ATS in their last four games versus teams with a winning record. Take Memphis.

6* NCAAB National TV Annihilator (ESPN2) on Boston College +10.5
The Key: Now's the time to fade UConn. The Huskies are off to a 4-0 start but are 0-7 ATS after 4 or more consecutive wins over the last 3 seasons. Boston College checks in off a 3-point win over Florida Atlantic and is 6-0 ATS after a close win of 3 points or less over the last 3 seasons. The underdog is 6-0 ATS in the last 6 meetings between these two schools. UConn has faced a bunch of offensively challenged teams since getting a scare from Maryland in its opener. B.C. has put up 92 and 82, respectively, in its last two games and has enough fire power to keep this one within the number.

6* NCAAB *CA$H COW* on BYU -5.5
The Key: Expect a letdown from Iowa State as it hits the road for the first time this season following a big win over Michigan. BYU has been nearly unbeatable at home where it is 120-11 since 2005, and it will be hungry to avenge last season's ugly 21-point loss at Iowa State. The Cyclones lost four players from last year's team that averaged 9.0 points or more. These were experienced vets that could be counted on down the stretch in big games like this. They will miss that senior leadership in this road test. In addition, BYU gets a big lift with Tyler Haws expected to be back in action tonight. At home and with momentum, BYU has been tough as nails. The Cougars are on a 12-3 ATS run in home games off 2 or more consecutive home wins, winning by an average of 22.4 points in this spot. Lay the points.

7* NBA *HEAVY HITTER* on Bucks +5.5
The Key: You want to back home underdogs of 3.5 to 9.5 points that have failed to cover the spread in 4 of their last 5 games when they're matched up with an opponent that has covered the number in 6 or 7 of its last 8 games. That's because doing so has produced a 66-33 ATS mark since 1996. Teams fitting these parameters have been underdogs of 6.0 points on average, but have lost by only 2.5 points on average. This system is an explosive 24-3 ATS the last 5 seasons. This is a tough spot for Portland as this is its 4th road game in 6 days. The Bucks have had 3 full days off and are expected to get Caron Butler and Ersan Ilyasova back in the lineup. Milwaukee has given Portland fits. The Bucks are 4-0 SU and ATS in the last 4 meetings. Take the points.

7* NBA *HEAVY HITTER* on Wizards +5
The Key: I'll gladly take the home team catching points considering how valuable home-court has been in this series. The home team is 6-1 SU and ATS in the last 7 meetings with the six wins coming by an average of 9.7 points. Washington is 8-1 in its last 9 home games against the T-Wolves, winning these by 9.8 points on average. The Wizards are 10-4 ATS in the last 14 meetings, including 7-1 ATS in the last 8 at home. In addition, Washington is 19-7 ATS as a home underdog over the last 2 seasons, 13-3 ATS in home games after having lost 4 or 5 of their last 6 games over the last 2 seasons and 16-6 ATS in home games when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons. Take the points.