I'm playing on PORTLAND. Playing their second game in two nights, the Blazers stumbled against the Pacers on Thursday. Prior to that, however, they'd won four straight, covering three of those. Tonight, its the Blazers' opponent which is playing its second game in two days. While Portland had Friday off, Atlanta played at Utah. The Hawks lost by five, at home against Cleveland, the only previous time that they played the second of b2b games this season. As for the Blazers, they know they need to take advantage of games against teams from the East, particularly when catching them at home. While they're only 1-2 in three against Eastern Conf. opponents so far this season, the Blazers are 40-20 (SU) against them the past 2+ seasons. The home team won and covered both meetings in this series last season. The Hawks won by 12 at Atlanta while the Blazers won by 11, here at Portland. Venue and schedule in their favor, expect another win and cover for the Blazers here. 

I'm playing on BOSTON U. These teams have both played Colgate twice and they've both played Holy Cross twice. They both split against Holy Cross. Army also split against Colgate. Boston, meanwhile, was swept by Colgate. Those results have helped to provide us with outstanding value with the Terriers. The logic or theory of many bettors will be, if the Black Knights can split against Colgate, a team which swept the Terriers, then they should have the edge in this one. While Army does deserve credit for its win against Colgate, that theory doesn't hold water here. The Terriers brought back most of last year's team and last year's team beat the Knights by a score of 80-66, at Army, and by a score of 81-59, here at Case Gym. The Terriers are coming in extremely hungry. They're 11-5 the last 16 times that they played a game with an O/U line in the 130s and that includes a perfect 4-0 record when playing a home game with an O/U line in the 135 to 139.5 range. Expect Boston to bring its very best effort in this one, en route to a badly needed victory. 

I'm playing on NORTH TEXAS. The Mean Green were favored by 10 points for last year's lone meeting. That game, which was last January, saw North Texas win by exactly 10. The previous season's lone game was played at UTEP. Yet, North Texas was still favored by 5.5 points and still won by seven. This year's North Texas team returned four of its top six scorers and is arguably even better than the recent versions. Yet, we're getting the Mean Green at a much lower line than we were last season. I feel thats providing us with excellent value. To be fair, UTEP is probably better this year than it was. That said, I don't think the Miners, who will miss the size, depth and rebounding of senior forward Vila, are going to be ready for what's in store for them here. The Miners lost last time out and they're just 7-17-1 ATS their last 25, off a conference loss. During that span, they were also 7-15 ATS (6-16 SU) when playing a game with an O/U line in the 130s. North Texas, the top rated shooting team in the conference, is undefeated at home, outscoring visiting teams by a 98 to 62.7 average margin. Expect another win and cover. 

I'm playing on MILWAUKEE. Despite dealing with some Covid issues, the Mavs have been rolling of late. Tonight, however, I expect their run to come to an abrupt start. As of this writing, the Mavs still have a number of players questionable, due to quarantine protocol etc. However, even at full strength, they'll be no match for what they're about to run into. When you don't lose that many games, you tend to remember the losses. The Bucks haven't forgotten that the Mavs upset them here last season. Milwaukee was laying -10 for that 12/16 game. The Mavs came in hot while the Bucks had an off night. That 120-116 upset snapped an 18-game winning streak for the Bucks. So, yes, they remember it. The fact that the Mavs also beat them "in the bubble" will further add to their anger tonight. The Mavs have been playing the majority of their games on the road so far this season and it figures to catch up with them here. The Bucks are 5-1 SU and 4-2 ATS at home this season. Even with last year's loss to the Mavs, they're 72-14 SU and 52-33-1 ATS here the past 2+ seasons. The Mavs average 109 ppg while the Bucks average more than 120. Payback time. 

I'm playing on ARIZONA. The Wildcats already know that they won't face Oregon, as originally scheduled, on Saturday. That's because of Covid issues with Oregon. They will still get a chance to face Oregon State though and I expect them to make the most of it. The Beavers have been dealing with their own Covid issues and have been out of action since Jan. 4th. That won't help them here. Not against a superior opponent which almost always gives them trouble. Arizona has won eight of the last nine meetings. The most recent meeting saw the Cats crush the Beavers by 26 points. With the Beavers rusty from their layoff, I wouldn't be surprised to see the Cats jump all over them and never look back. Even if OSU does survive the initial onslaught, Arizona's superior talent will ultimately lead to another double-digit win. 

I'm playing on DENVER. I believe that the Warriors are in the wrong place, at the wrong time. Denver lost at Brooklyn on Tuesday. However, that loss notwithstanding, the Nuggets have been playing well of late. Jokic is the "straw that stirs the drink" for this team and he's found his groove. He was two rebounds and three steals short of achieving a "quadruple double" last time out. He entered that game as just the second player in NBA history to average 20/10/10 in his team's first 10 games. He's going be an unstoppable force again, tonight. Denver has still won four if its past six games and responded to each of its last two losses with a double-digit win next time out. While both teams had yesterday off, note that the Nuggets also have tomorrow off while the Warriors play at Phoenix. In fact, the Nuggets have the next two nights off. In other words, there's no holding back in this one. The Nuggets are 66-22 when listed as the home team the past 2+ seasons. Expect them to improve on those stats, covering the small number along the way. 

I'm playing on STEPHEN F. AUSTIN. Sometimes these smaller conferences can provide the biggest value. In this case, I believe the superior team is undervalued. The Lumberjacks are the class of this conference. Both their two losses came on the road, one of them at Baylor. At home, they're undefeated and outscoring teams by a 90-70 margin. Last year, the Jacks were laying nine points at Central Arkansas and 12.5 points for the game here. They won a close one on the road but won by 15 in the game here. Central Arkansas is 1-7 on the road, getting outscored by an average of 83.5 to 68.4. Seven of the Bears' losses this season have come by double-digits, including each of the last six. Its been more than a year since Stepeh F. Austin lost a game in this conference. The last time it happened was Jan. 8th, 2020. Since that time, the Jacks have reeled off 17 straight Southland wins. This year's Stephen Austin team, led by their seniors, quietly ranks fourth in the entire country, in terms of forcing opponents into turning the ball over on 28% of all their possessions. Expect another double-digit win. 

I'm playing on WISCONSIN. While I'm happy to grab the points, I like the Badgers to win this one outright. The Wolverines were favored by three in last year's game. Wisconsin won by seven. The Badgers last road game saw them win by nine, at Michigan State. This is a team which knows how to win, at any venue. The Badgers' lone road loss came by just two points. With an undefeated record, Michigan has obviously played well and is worthy of respect. That said, the Badgers have played the tougher schedule thus far and are more "battle-tested," as a result. Including last season's win here and this season's win at Michigan State, the Badgers are 12-8-2 ATS their last 22 as underdogs, 11-11 SU in those games. Expect them to give the Wolverines all they can handle with a great shot at another upset. 

I'm playing on MARYLAND. While I respect Illinois, I believe that this will prove to be too many points. The Terps are coming in hungry. They got embarrassed last time out and they've now dropped three straight. Note that if we go back over the years, they're 12-2 ATS their last 14, after having dropped their previous three. Maryland has also had plenty of success against the Illini over the years. The Terps have won six of the past seven meetings and are 11-5 in 16 meetings since the late 1990s. All five Illinois victories came by 11 or fewer points. Maryland's three conference road games have resulted in two single digit losses (at Purdue and Indiana) and an outright win at Wisconsin. Expect them to give their hosts all that they can handle. 

I'm playing on LA. The Bulls are in the wrong place, at the wrong time. Chicago is at the end of a road trip. Off b2b really close losses, the banged-up Bulls are thinking about getting home. The Clippers also lost last time out. They're already 3-0 SU/ATS off a loss though. They won those three games by an average of 12 points, too. While they did manage to upset the Clippers last season, something LA hasn't forgotten, the Bulls are now 15-42 SU in games against Western Conf. teams, the past 2+ seasons. During that span, the Clippers are 37-17 SU against teams from the East. Expect LA to improve on those stats this afternoon, picking up the cover along the way. 

I'm playing on DAYTON. While I respect Davidson, this line climbed higher overnight and its a lot of points to be laying against a determined Dayton tean. The Flyers, who have beaten Davidson three straight times, have lost just three times this season. All three losses came by two points or less. One of those setbacks came last time out. That's noteworthy as Dayton is 6-1 SU (5-1-1 ATS) its last seven, off a conf. loss. Speaking of close games, last year's meeting here was decided by a single point, a 74-73 win for the Flyers. Davidson was laying four points for that one, which is roughly what I feel the Wildcats should be laying here, if one was setting a true line, not based on trying to balance action. Getting an extra few points, above and beyond that, in what could well be another close one, is offering excellent value. Remember, Dayton has defeated the likes of Ole Miss and Miss. State. Off each of this season's previous two losses, the Flyers bounced back with a win. Look for them to give their hosts all they can handle. 

I'm playing on TENNESSEE STATE. There's a reason why the team with the inferior record is the favorite. Homecourt is only part of it. The Tigers are more talented, in my opinion. Additionally, they're currently playing better, arguably. They're also going to be desperate for a win, having dropped three straight. Of course, off four straight losses of their own, the Skyhawks are also going to really want a "W" here. However, a look at the four losses shows that they haven't even been competitive. All four losses were by double-digits. The average margin of defeat was 24 points. The Tigers' losses, on the other hand, were all close, each coming by single digits. Note that the Tigers are 6-3 ATS the past couple of seasons, after having dropped their previous three games. I expect them to improve on those stats this evening. 

I'm playing on DUKE. The Blue Devils come into this game very well-rested and chomping at the bit to get going. Admittedly, things aren't exactly "normal." The Blue Devils have been on an extended layoff and they're going to be without Coach K on the sidelines. Yes, his absence is significant. However, he hasn't been completely out of contact: Krzyzewski had this to say: "I've had Zooms yesterday with my staff to go over Boston College, wrote out our practice plan, had a meeting with my staff this morning. I'll be able to follow practice on Zoom....and then I'll have another meeting with my staff and I'll FaceTime with each of the players individually tonight, and do the best we can ... " While the Eagles may be thinking that a young Duke team is vulnerable, one fact remains unchanged. Duke is more talented. The Eagles, who lost quite a lot from last year, have played some good teams, so they know what they're up against. However, they've also already lost seven times, three of those losses by 12 or more. Syracuse beat this team by 38 points. Speaking of "blowouts," the last two meetings here at Duke saw the Blue Devils win by scores of 88-49 and 80-50. Not many will likely be ready to back Duke in this spot, but I'm projecting another blowout. 

I'm playing on MICHIGAN STATE. While the Knights have the higher ranking, playing at home, I expect the Spartans to have the edge. The Spartans dropped their first three conference games. However, two of those were on the road and the third was against Wisconsin. Last time out, also on the road, they bounced back and picked up this season's first Big Ten win. I expect them to carry the positive momentum into this evening's game. The Spartans haven't fared well at the betting window. Their ATS struggles work in our favor here though as we don't need to lay any points. Keep in mind that the Spartans were favored by 14, 15.5, 21.5, 13 and 28 points the past five times that they hosted the Knights. Yes, Rutgers is improved this season. However, the point remains that the Spartans are offering excellent value. Remember, they're 32-5 the past 2+ seasons at home and that includes a perfect 6-0 record when playing a home game with an O/U line in the 150 to 154.5 range. The Knights, still without Omoruyi, have still won just seven of their past 25 on the road. A 2-point loss against Iowa last time out figures to be deflating. I say that as they left it all on the floor and played great, only to have poor free throw shooting cost them. The Spartans, who have beaten Rutgers every single Big Ten meeting, won't have any sympathy. They need another win and I expect them to get it. 

I'm playing on MEMPHIS. These teams met here Sunday. The Lakers won by 14. The champs haven't been home since last year though and this is the final leg of their road trip. I believe that they could easily overlook Memphis tonight. Note that LA is 9-12 ATS the past couple of seasons, after playing its previous three on the road. On the other hand, the Grizzlies play with recent revenge and absolutely don't want to be "swept" in this 2-game series. Still seeking their first home win, they're going to be hungry and determined tonight. While the Lakers are 1-2 ATS off a double-digit win, the Grizzlies are 2-1 ATS off a double-digit loss. I expect the Grizzlies' best effort and am grabbing the points. 

I'm playing on CHARLESTON SOUTHERN. I believe that this line is too high. Winthrop may be the class of the conference but the Buccaneers are an experienced team which, in my opinion, is better than many realize. Note that Charleston Southern's only loss of greater than 12 points was on the road, at NC State. The Bucanneers, still 21-12 SU their last 33 home lined games, believe that they can win this game and they've had it circled. Winthrop can score but it also gives up 75 ppg. The Eagles won the most recent meeting by 17. However, the Bucs won the previous meeting and the three before that were all decided by four or less. Look for the Buccaneers to bring their "A game," and for this one to prove closer than many will be expecting.

I'm playing on DENVER. I successfully backed the Nuggets in their last game here, as they got on track with a big win over Houston. They'd follow it up with a loss in a b2b spot, on the road, the following night. Schedule and venue in their favor, I expect another win and cover to ring in the year. While the Nuggets had last night off, the Suns are off a hard-fought win at Utah. The only previous time that the Suns played b2b games this season, their opponent was in the same situation. That's not the case here. Not only will the Suns be playing b2b games, they'll also be playing three games in four nights and five in the past seven. Facing a motivated and rested Denver team, expect it to all catch up to the Suns tonight. Nuggets roll. 

I'm playing on LIPSCOMB. Liberty is off a huge season and has dominated the Atlantic Sun Conference in recent years. The Flames lost a lot from last year though and I believe that they're ripe to get upset here. Note that the Bisons did beat Liberty here last season. Getting nine points, they won 77-71. While Liberty's team has arguably taken a step back, on paper, Lipscomb is arguably stronger than last year. Its also worth noting that four of the past five meetings were decided by seven or less. I like the fact that Liberty hasn't played since 12/22 as there may be some rust. I also like the Lipscomb has built up confidence with three straight wins.  Including last year's upset win over Liberty here, the Bistons are 34-18 ATS their past 50+ as underdogs. Expect them to improve on those stats this afternoon with AT LEAST another cover. 

I'm playing on SAN FRANCISCO. These teams are at opposite ends of the conference. No West Coast Conference team can compete with Gonzaga, as the Bulldogs are in a class of their own this season. However, the Dons are capable of competing with any other team in the conference. Remember, this is a team which beat Virginia earlier. The same cannot be said for San Diego. The Toreros, who are likely destined to finish near the bottom of the conference. San Diego, hit by Covid-19 mitigation measures, didn't get to work together until late in the season. Now, the Toreros have still only had a chance to play four games (SF has played 10) so they still aren't really firing on all cylinders. They're 1-3 and their three losses came by an average of 22 points. Last time out, they lost by 32, at UC-Irvine. While they didn't cover, I like how the Dons eked out a close win against a Grand Canyon team which had been playing very well. The Dons won last season's meeting by 25 points. Knowing they've got Gonzaga on deck, they're going to want to build confidence. Expect them to keep the pedal to the metal the entire way, en route to an other lopsided win. 

I'm playing on TENNESSEE TECH. While the Golden Eagles are winless, I believe that they're favored for a reason and I expect them to earn their first victory here. The Golden Eagles, who have beaten the Redhawks three straight times here at Hooper Eblen Arena, are winless due to the schedule that they've played. Tennessee Tech has played seven of its nine games on the road. Underdogs in every game, until this one, the Golden Eagles have taken on the likes of Indiana, Xavier and Tennessee, to name just a few. Indeed, they're battle-tested and won't be intimidated by a Redhawk team who's toughest opponent was Indiana State. Over the past couple of seasons, SE. Missouri State was 0-2 ATS as a road underdog of three or fewer points. The Golden Eagles won by nine against the Redhawks here last season and I believe that they're an improved team this season. I can't say the same for the Redhawks. Tenn. Tech rolls. 

I'm playing on DENVER. The Rockets are at the wrong place, at the wrong time. The Nuggets are already  0-2 on the season, both those losses here at home. They know that their next game is on the road and that they won't play another home game until "next year." That will provide them with a sense of urgency and I expect them to take it out on the Rockets. As you likely know, Harden wants out. That's made things difficult, to say the least. Of course, even when the Rockets were fully functional, they had trouble winning here. While the Rockets have beaten the Nuggets eight straight times at Houston, they've lost their last three games here at Denver, losing by an average of more than 10 points. The Nuggets were 22-10 SU and 17-13-2 ATS when off a double-digit loss, the past couple of seasons. Expect them to improve on those stats with a double-digit win of their own. 

I'm playing on CSU. The Bulldogs are in the wrong place, at the wrong time. Fresno has almost an entirely new starting lineup and has yet to play a game against a quality team. The Bulldogs' two games have come against William Jessup and Fresno Pacific; neither game had a line. The Rams, a far more experienced team to begin with, have played twice as many games overall and they've actually taken on real opponents, like St. Mary's. The Rams have already beaten the Bulldogs by double-digits twice in 2020. They won 80-70 at Fresno in February and they hammered the Bulldogs 86-68 in a game here in January. Prior to the season, Fresno coach Justin Hutson noted: "...It's just a lot of new guys, so the theme is to get them to gel as a team." They haven't had a chance to do that yet. Look for the Rams to take advantage of their inexperience, improving to 3-1 ATS the past couple of seasons, when listed as home favorites in the -6.5 to -9 range. 

I'm playing on PROVIDENCE. The last time that these teams faced each other was on 3/7/2020. The Friars hammered them by a score of 93-55. The Friars were up 55-25 by halftime. While this one is unlikely to get that ugly, I am absolutely expecting another double-digit win for the Friars. In this season, when teams didn't get to practice in the offseason the way they normally do, actually playing games is very important. In this case, Providence is "battle-tested" with eight games under its belt. I expect this season's experience to prove the difference. The Friars have taken on the likes of Indiana, Davidson, Alabama, TCU, Seton Hall and Butler. By comparison, Depaul has played just one game and that was against Western Illinois. Sure, the Blue Demons won 91-72. However, thats not saying much as the "Leathernecks" were 5-21 last season and didn't bring back a single starter this year. With Depaul just 6-12 ATS its past 18, after scoring 80 or more in its previous game, expect the Friars to pull away for a comfortable win and cover. 

I'm playing on MILWAUKEE. While its important not to over-react to one game, its also important not to ignore what just happened. In this case, the Warriors looked terrible in Tuesday's opener, at Brooklyn. Thompson is out. Green missed the opener and may well miss this one. If he does play, he's not likely to be 100%. Without Green in there to take some pressure off him, Wiggins really struggled in the opener. Curry can't do it alone. The Bucks are thinking nothing less than a championship this season. Still stinging from last season's playoff disappointment, this is their chance to remind the world how good that they can be. They should be improved, too, having added Jrue Holliday to their already stacked lineup. Bucks make a statement and win by double-digits. 

I'm playing on ALABAMA. This is a mismatch in terms of both talent and experience. The Bucaneers won 30 games last season. However, this year's team has an entirely new starting lineup, as well as a new coach. They're still going to be good, within their conference, but they're not yet ready to challenge the likes of Alabama. Not when the Tide are going to be motivated, as I expect them to be here. The Tide are 2-0 SU this season, when coming off a loss. Off a loss and playing their final game before Christmas, with conference play to follow after that, they're going to be anxious to bounce back with a big win. The Tide are better than their record suggests. In an angry mood, expect them to close out the non-conf. slate with a statement blowout.

I'm playing on MEMPHIS. This isn't just a regular game for the Tigers. They have a score to settle with this team and have had this game circled. The last time that they met, Tulsa beat them by a score of 80-40. Forward D.J. Jeffries noted: "They pretty much humiliated us last year. We're coming back tomorrow with redemption. We're trying to go out there and prove that we're the tougher team and better team, you know, go out there and hit them in the mouth first, because last year I felt like they hit us in the mouth first." Coach Penny Hardaway added: "A lot of players quit in that game and it was very disappointing. So we’re a totally different team now. We have the utmost respect for everybody. ... So now they know what to expect. And it's been an opportunity for us to get another home win, but also get back at Tulsa for how they beat up on us last year." I say its payback time. Memphis rolls. 

I'm playing on MINNESOTA. The Billikens have a veteran team this year and they've been playing well. However, I expect a highly motivated Minnesota team to hand them their first loss. A closer look at the Billikens' games show that none have come on the road and that none have been against real top quality opponents. They did eke out a win against LSU while beating NC. State. So, those wins were fairly impressive. Again, however, they weren't on the road. The rest of the Billiken's wins all came against weak competition, as they were favored by double-digits in every other game. The Gophers have also taken care of business when playing at home. Their only loss came last time out, at Illinois. The Illini are one of the top teams in the country though, so there's no shame in losing on the road to them. The fact that the Gophers got hammered will have them working extra hard to bounce right back. Indeed, Pitino will use that blowout loss as motivation and have his team ready to go. Look for a huge effort from the Gophers, as they improve to 16-9 ATS the past 25 times that they were off a conference loss. 

I'm playing on ST. MARY'S. The Gaels have played a lot more games than the Rams and I expect that to work to their advantage this evening. Since dropping its opener against Memphis, St. Mary's has won seven straight games. The Rams, on the other hand, have only played two games. Both were against weak competition and neither were on the road. The Rams are just 17-30-1 ATS over the years as road underdogs in the 3.5 to 6 range. The Gaels, during the same span, were 24-15 ATS as home favorites in the 3.5 to 6 range. The Gaels are 20-11 SU/ATS their last 31 against MWC opponents, 6-1 SU and 5-2 ATS their last seven. The Gaels have won five straight at home, averaging more than 80 ppg while giving up just 63. Expect homecourt to prove significant as the Gaels win their eighth straight overall while covering the relatively small number along the way. 

I'm playing on RICHMOND. Big game between two good teams. It was a recent addition to the schedule and the teams will meet at Indianapolis. Richmond has positive momentum in its corner, while Loyola-Chicago is off its first loss. I expect that to work in favor of the Spiders. I also like the fact that the Spiders have played a couple more games overall than have the Ramblers. With teams not being able to do as much offseason work together as normal, those extra games help more than they hurt. With their loss against the Badgers, ther Ramblers are just 4-10 ATS as underdogs the past 2+ seasons. I really liked how the Spiders responded to their first loss of the season, as they were flawless in the first half against Vanderbilt. Even better was the fact that they allowed the Commodores to come back and cover in the second half, as it kept today's line more reasonable than it easily could have been. I say the Spiders keep rolling, covering the small nubmer along the way. 

I'm playing on ASU. The Miners are in the wrong place, at the wrong time. While they may have played Arizona tough, the Sun Devils are a different beast. Having survived, while receiving a wake-up-call, at Grand Canyon, I expect Arizona State, 6-2 ATS its last eight against CUSA teams, to be all business in this one. The Miners will have an opportunity for a win before Christmas. However, tonight, they're at the end of a road trip and thinking about what might have been at Arizona and also about getting home. Keep in mind that UTEP hasn't won a road game against a team with a winning record, since the 2016/17 season. Once Remy Martin and the Sun Devils get up, as I fully expect them to do, its going to be tough for the Miners to fight back. Look for the Sun Devils to build some positive momentum from their close call at Grand Canyon, keeping the pedal to the metal the entire way and delivering a one-sided blowout. 

I'm playing on AUBURN. I'm expecting this one to get ugly. All five of Auburn's opponents have been better than this one. The Tigers have taken on the likes of Gonzaga and Memphis. Even their lesser opponents (UCF, St. Joseph's etc) were considerably better than Texas Southern. To their credit, the Tigers (Texas Southern) have also taken on some fairly tough teams. They've been mostly competitive, too. That said, they're going to be getting a little road weary for this one. This is their sixth game and its the sixth different arena that they will have played in. That stretch started way out on the West Coast, too. Bruce Pearl will make sure his team doesn't take their opponent for granted. He knows that games will soon get a lot harder and that his team will benefit from a big win in this one. Auburn is off its most impressive win of the season and will now look to build on it with a blowout. Not only is Auburn 30-0 SU its last 30 non-conf game but the Tigers are also 23-0 all-time against teams from the Southwestern Athletic Conference. Texas Southern is just 1-4 ATS its last five as a road underdog in the 12.5 to 15 point range. I see Auburn pulling away and winning by 20+. 

I'm playing on LIPSCOMB. In case you weren't aware, these schools don't like each other and this is a major rivalry. With the two private schools separated by only a couple of miles, this series is known as "The Battle of the Boulevard." For schools of its size, the rivalry is considered the fiercest around. The two schools have met 140 times over the past 64 years. While they may not be well known, the Bisons are well-coached and hungry. They've quietly gone 34-17-1 ATS their last 55 as underdogs. Of course, the Bruins know how dangerous the Bisons are. Lipscomb beat Belmont outright in both 2017 meetings. Since then, they've had four meetings and ALL FOUR were decided by six or fewer points. In the most recent meeting, last December at Belmont, the Bears were laying 13 points but won by only five. Now, the Bruins are on the road against what I believe is an improved Lipscomb team from last year. Note that this is Belmont's first true road game of the season. Also, note that the Bruins were 0-2 ATS the past couple of seasons, when listed as road favorites in the 3.5 to 6 range. While the Bruins have been playing weak teams, the Bisons have been getting battle-tested against the likes of Arkansas and Cincinnati. They finally played a home game last time out and defeated S.E. Missouri State by six. I like their chances of winning this one outright but in a game which could well come down to the wire, like recent games in this rivalry have been doing, I'm happy to grab the points. 

I'm playing on WYOMING. The Cowboys are off a momentum-building comeback win at Oregon State and come in full of confidence. Facing a very young Denver team, which will struggle this season, offers an opportunity for them to build momentum with a blowout win. I expect them to make the most of it. This is a rivalary that goes back a lot of years and the Cowboys have historically dominated the Pioneers here. The fact that Denver actually scored the upset last time here (2018) won't be forgotten and will help to ensure the Cowboys keep their foot on the gas the entire way. The Pioneers lost by 20 against UC Riverside last time out, which doesnt bode well for them here. Now, they hit to the road where they're 1-28 SU their last 29. Expect a one-sided blowout. 

I'm playing on RUTGERS. These are both good teams and both brought back a lot of starters from last year. The problem for Syracuse is that its missing a couple of theirs. Buddy Boeheim and Bourama Sidibe, each important pieces, are both out. Boeheim got a positive Covid test while Sidibe is recovering from a knee injury. Of course, the one starter that the Orange did lose from last year's team was a big one and will be tough to replace. Elijah Hughes led the entire ACC in scoring last season. Syracuse 8-11 ATS its last 19 against teams which score 77 or more. During the same span, the Knights are 12-5 ATS against opponents that score 77 or more and 9-4 ATS against teams which allow 64 or fewer points per game. I say Rutgers is catching 'Cuse at the right time. Look for the Knights to move to 4-1 ATS the past five times that they were listed as home favorites in the 3.5 to six range. 

I'm playing on ARIZONA. You can't really call this one an instate "rivalry," as the Wildcats crush this team every time that they meet. The last five meetings have had scores of 91-52, 101-67, 92-37, 77-44 and 93-50. Every win by more than 30. This season's Wildcats are young and they're currently missing a few key players. However, unlike their guests, they're talented. Also, unlike their guests, they've got a couple of games under their belts. While the Widcats have had a few games cancelled, they've at least gotten to play. The Lumberjacks have had each of their games cancelled. I like how the Wildcats were tested last time out and prevailed, a 70-67 win over Eastern Washington. Thats the type of win that a young team can build positive momentum from. The Cats still have enough to lay a beating on their overmatched guests. I expect them to pull away for another 30+ point win. 

I'm playing on TULSA. The home team has won by exactly 14 points each of the past two seasons, with nearly identical scores. Playing at home, the Mavericks took last year's game, 73-59. However, in the most recent game here at Tulsa, the Golden Hurricane won by a score of 72-58. At home, I expect another double-digit win for Tulsa this evening. To their credit, the Mavericks have fought pretty hard, eking out a pair of covers in their two true road games. They still lost both though, most recently falling by 12 on Wednesday. They've got some winnable games coming up after this one, but I expect them to be in over their heads here. As of this writing, the O/U line is 135, at most shops. Thats noteworthy as Tulsa has long thrived when playing at home, with games projected to play at this tempo. The Hurricane are 39-16 SU and 32-22-1 ATS over the years, when playing a home game with an O/U line in the 135 to 139.5 range, 6-2 SU and 5-3 ATS the past 2+ seasons. During that span, the Mavericks were just 2-4 ATS (1-5 SU) when playing a road game with a total in the same range. Lay the points. 

I'm playing on LA TECH. These schools were disappointed to have their football game cancelled a few weeks ago. However, they'll get a chance to settle things on the hardwood and I really like how things set up for the Bulldogs. This is a quality LA Tech team, one which now has a couple of games under its belt. Both resulted in SU wins but narrow ATS losses. (Last time out, LA Tech won by 14, laying 16.5.) Now the Bulldogs face a run of instate opponents. After Louisiana-Monroe, they'll face Louisiana State (LSU) SE Louisiana and Louisiana-Lafayette. Needless to say, LSU will be a tougher challenge. So, the Bulldogs will look to build momentum with a blowout win. Note that with that LSU game not until Sunday, there's no reason to rest stars. ULM, with a revamped roster, was going to be outmatched regardless but what makes matters worse is that the Warhawks have yet to even play a game. All those new faces are going to take time to come together and it won't be happening tonight. Look for the Bulldogs to keep the pedal to the metal, pulling away for a decisive win and improving to 18-7 ATS the past 25 times that they played a game with an O/U line in the 130s. 

I'm playing on MICHIGAN. I successfully played against the Wolverines in their last game. However, I like how they were tested and that they won the game in OT. I believe that will serve as a wake up call while also providing positive momentum. Ball State, on the other hand, has had some time off since a deflating 1-point loss in their first game. Not ideal. (Ball State just 1-4 ATS its past five, with five or six day's rest in between games.) This is a team which needs to practice and to play. Its also far from ideal that the Cardinals have been without Coleman and Jones, a pair of important players. It doesn't appear that either will be available but even if one or both were, they wouldn't be at 100%. Either way, Michigan has too much talent and size and will ultimately pull away for a decisive win. Lay the points and look for the Wolverines to move to 11-7-2 ATS (19-1 SU) their last 20, as home faovrites in the 12.5 to 15 range. 

I'm playing on LOUISVILLE. The Hilltoppers are indeed a very capable team, one which has performed well in the underdog role in recent seasons. However, the Cardinals handled them last year, a 71-54. While they aren't at the level that last year's team was, I believe that the Cardinals' superior defense will again be the difference. Note that WKU entered last year's game shooting 41.1% from beyond the arc but went just 1-for-17 against the stifling Cardinal defense. This year, through three games, Louisville is allowing 59.3 ppg while WKU is allowing 75.3. With an O/U line in the low 140s, note that the Hilltoppers are 0-3 SU/ATS the past couple of seasons, when playing a road game with an O/U line in the 140 to 144.5 range. During that span, the Cards are 6-1 SU at home, with a line in the same range. Expect them to improve on those stats, covering the relatively small number along the way. 

I'm playing on OAKLAND. Admittedly, the Golden Grizzlies really stunk in their three games at the Xavier Invitational. Those poor performances have helped provide us with a very generous pointspread. I believe that the Grizzlies are better than they showed and I believe that the big line is offering excellent value. Note that Michigan is just 1-3 ATS its past four, as a home favorite in the -24.5 to -30 range. The Grizzlies did improve each time out in the tournament, covering in the final game. Each time out, they scored more points and allowed less, than they did in their previous game. Look for them to provide a tougher test than many will be expecting, improving to 9-3 ATS the past 12 times that they scored 60 or fewer points in their previous game.

I'm playing on ODU. The Monarchs bring back a lot from last year and are poised for a big bounce back season. The same cannot be said for the Tribe. William & Mary lost a lot from last season, promptiing coach to Fischer to comment: "Our team is going to look completely different from what it did last year ... " He'd go on to describe having so many new faces as "daunting." Speaking of last season, the Monarchs haven't forgotten that they were thumped at William & Mary, losing by 17 on the road. Note that ODU won by 18, at home, when the teams met the previous season. This is a chance at some payback and a chance to show how far this team has come. The Monarchs have had this one circled and I expect them to deliver a blowout. 

I'm playing on MOREHEAD STATE. While the Spiders are obviously the stronger team, I really like how this one sets up for the Eagles. Most know that Richmond brought back all its starters. However, it should be noted that one of them, Nick Sherod, was lost to injury. That's a big blow. This will be the Spiders first game, as their game against Detroit was cancelled. The Eagles, on the other hand, have already taken on Kentucky. So, they've had a chance to work off some of the offseason rust. Speaking of Kentucky, the Spiders have a big showdown against the Wildcats up next. If they do get up big in this one, they could easily take their foot off the gas a bit and give their starters a little extra rest for that one. Also, note that this game is being played in the state of Kentucky; Lexington is only an hour or so away from Morhead State's campus. Last year, Richmond also had a big game (Vanderbilt) on deck for its second game and it ended up getting taken to OT (100-98 win) in its first game, despite being listed as a double-digit favorite. Look for this one to also prove closer than many will be expecting. 

I'm playing on ALABAMA. This is a major mismatch and the Tide could easily win by 30+. Alabama, in year two of the "Ball and Oats" era, is poised to have a big year and is expecting to make a return to the NCAA tournament. The Tide, who bring back the SEC's two top returning scorers from last year, will be looking to get things started with a statement win. In addition to being more talented than the Gamecocks, the Tide are far more experienced. The Gamecocks are just 1-4 ATS the past five times that they were road underdogs of 12.5 or more points. They won't be able to keep up and are in the wrong place, at the wrong time. Expect a blowout. 

I'm playing on LA. This series is over. The Lakers know it and deep down, though they would never admit it, I believe that the Heat know it, too. The Heat played a great Game 4 and it still wasn't enough. As I expected, the Lakers elevated their defensive intensity, holding the Heat to a mere 96 points. Specifically, Davis slowed down Butler, a huge factor not seen in the boxscore. Unfortunately, the Lakers only managed 102 themselves, which meant that a "meaningless" Miami 3-pointer in the final second of the game, cost them the cover. That shot aside, I like that I saw from the Lakers. Now, they smell the blood in the water. Its been a long time in the bubble and they're anxious not to extend that time any longer. The Lakers got "only" 50 combined points from James and Davis in Game 4. Those two superstars are both capable of getting that many themselves. I expect the two stars to combine for more than 50 in this one, the Lakers continuing their dominant defense, en route to a win, cover and title. 

I'm playing on LA. I really didn't think that the Heat would go down without a fight. Jimmy Butler made sure that they didn't. All Butler did, in willing his team to victory, was put up the third 40-point-triple-double in NBA Finals history. Butler would finish with 40 points, 11 rebounds and 13 assists. As you know, the series now sits at 2-1. It wasn't just Butler, the entire Miami team outworked the Lakers. That said, the Heat can't expect a super-human effort from Butler every night. The Lakers have received their wake-up call and they're not going to get outworked again. The last thing that they want to do is give this young Miami team more hope than it has. I expect Lebron, Davis and co. to be entirely focused from the opening tip and I look for them keep the pedal to the metal, in terms of intensity, the entire way. Butler will get points but the Lakers will make sure he doesn't have a repeat performance from Game 3. This year's Heat are just 4-11-1 ATS when off an upset win. Going back further finds Miami at only 20-38-3 ATS when off a double-digit win. Lay the points and expect James and Davis to deliver a statement. 

I'm playing on MIAMI. This is it for the Heat. They obviously can't afford to go down 0-3. (No team has come back from down 3-0.) They need to leave everything on the floor in this game and thats exactly what I expect them to do. Clearly, the Lakers are an excellent team. Still, they played a near-flawless game and couldn't pull away from the Heat. The Heat actually outscored the Lakers by four points in the second half and finally started playing the type of defense (held LA to 21 in the 4th) that they need to, in order to compete. They obviously aren't going to be able to shut down Davis entirely. Still, the expected return of Bam Adebayo, their best defender, will at least help slow him down. Still 12-4-1 ATS in these playoffs, look for the Heat to build off their strong second half in Game 2, playing their best game of the series and earning AT LEAST the cover. 

I'm playing on LA. The Heat have been on a great run and have taken down some good teams. They haven't faced a team with the size, talent and playoff experience like the Lakers though. Indeed, the Lakers are a far more complete team than the ones which Miami has faced and they come in on a mission. Both teams won big in closing out the Conf. Finals. LA beat Denver by 10 while Miami defeated Boston by a dozen. However, the Heat are just 11-16 ATS off a double-digit win, an ugly 20-37-3 ATS (24-36 SU) their past 60 in that situation. During that span, the Lakers were a much better 35-26-3 ATS (45-19 SU) off a double-digit win. The Lakers took both regular season meetings, the wins coming by an average of 7.5 points. Expect Lebron, Davis and co. to start things with a statement win. 

I'm playing on the LA LAKERS. The Nuggets continue to hang around and they deserve credit for their Game 3 win. Still, this is not the Clippers that they're playing. These Lakers are an extremely talented and determined team, on a mission to get to and win the Finals. The Nuggets got a huge Game 3 from Grant but they can't count on a repeat performance from him and lack a reliable third scoring option. The last time that the Lakers lost, they responded by winning six straight games, the first five of those victories all coming by a minimum of eight points. Off their prior loss before that, the Lakers responded with four straight wins. All victories came by a minimum of eight points. Expect the Lakers to respond once again, delivering a statement double-digit victory. 

I'm playing on LA. The Nuggets have surprised a lot of people, myself included. This is an entirely different matchup though. I expect their exhausting comeback against the Clippers to catch up with them against a rested and determined Laker team. Lebron and co. watched what Denver did to the Clippers and will not be taken by surprise or come in thinking this will be easy. Expect the Lakers to be fully focused, determined to seize control of this series right out of the gate. Since these teams played a close one on 8/10, the Lakers have won eight games. All eight of those victories came by a minimum of eight points. I expect a double-digit statement win in this one. 

I'm playing on LA. Give the Nuggets a lot of credit for hanging around. However, I believe that the Clippers will prove to be too much for them today. LA is a ridiculous 17-1 SU and 14-4 ATS when off an upset loss. Friday's loss was just the sixth for LA since returning to play. The Clippers followed up all five previous losses with a victory and they won those five games by an average of 17 points, three of those coming by 13 or more. They're the more complete and talented team and I see them pulling away for another double-digit win this afternoon. 

I'm playing on LA. The Nuggets hung around for the cover last game. However, I believe that the Clippers are the more complete team and I expect them to pull away in this one. Both teams have allowed a nearly identical number of points, per playoff game. The Nuggets have allowed an average of 112.8 ppg in the playoffs while the Clippers have allowed 112.9. However, on the other side of the ball, Denver is averaging just 108.6 while LA is averaging a whopping 121.6. Even with the non-cover last time out, the Clippers are still 38-29-1 ATS (50-18 SU) when laying points. The Clippers won by 23 in the first one. I'm expecting another double-digit win tonight. 

I'm playing on HOUSTON. I've had a pretty good read on this series. Through the course of the six games, I've successfully backed both the Thunder AND the Rockets. I've also won with both the 'under' AND the 'over.' Last game, we saw a scrappy OKC team which refused to quit, when facing elimination. OKC was the more desperate team and played like it. However, in Game 7, both teams will be "equally hungry." Throw out that motivational edge which they enjoyed in Game 6 and I believe that the Thunder are overmatched. Paul had a fantastic Game 6, turning back the clock. He's still very capable. However, he's not Harden and his supporting cast is prone to struggling. While the Thunder have to work hard for many of their buckets, the Rockets can often score with relative ease. While the Thunder are 0-2 ATS the past couple of times that they were tied in a playoff series, the Rockets are 4-2 ATS when tied in a series, during the same span. When this series was tied at 2-2, Houston won by 34. I say the cream rises to the top once again, the superior team (Rockets) digging deep and advancing while covering the small number along the way. 

I'm playing on OKC. After Saturday's blowout win by Houston, most are writing off the Thunder. That sentiment, in turn, has led to a generous pointspread. I feel that's providing excellent value with what I believe will be an extremely determined OKC team. Keep in mind that the Thunder tend to thrive as underdogs. Even factoring in Saturday, they're 50-30 ATS their last 80, when getting points, 27-14 ATS on the season. Prior to Saturday, the Thunder had beaten the Rockets twice in a row. They still believe that they can do it. The OKC offense will be much better in this one, as the Thunder shot terribly Saturday and can only improve. Backs to the wall, expect the Thunder to give the Rockets all they can handle, taking this game down to the wire with an excellent shot at the outright upset. 

I'm playing on LA. The Blazers pulled off the upset in Game 1 and are clearly as dangerous a #8 seed as we've seen in a long time. Probably ever. Lebron and co. aren't about to just roll over though. The Blazers were still 37-39 on the season as compared to LA's 52-20. Their Game 1 win/cover notwithstanding, the Blazers are still just 14-20-2 ATS as underdogs. Lebron didn't get the help from his supporting cast that Lillard did in the opener. I expect that to change in Game 2. And, if it doesn't, I expect James to take matters into his own hands, willing his way back in the series, picking up the cover along the way. 

I'm playing on BROOKLYN. Obviously, I respect the Raptors. They've got talent, playoff experience and they're very well coached. That said, this is a lot of points and the Nets have been playing very hard. They've covered four straight and six of seven. The last two meetings between these teams saw Brooklyn win by 10 points and Toronto win by only one. While the Nets have thrived in the underdog role, the Raptors are just 3-8-1 ATS the past 12 times that they played with two days rest in between games. Grab the points and don't be surprised when the Nets give the champs a tougher game than most will be expecting. 

I'm playing on MEMPHIS. While the bubble experience has NOT been a good one for the Grizzlies, they still control their own destiny. All they need to do is win this game and they're into the 8/9 play-in-series. If they lose, the Grizzlies would need plenty of help as they'd also require the Suns and Spurs to lose. Needless to say, they don't want to rely on that. As Coach Jenkins said: “I told the guys we’ve got one game left, we’ve got to try to find a way to play our best game at this point. We’ve got to lay it on the line. Whatever’s been in the past is in the past.” The Bucks have already secured top spot in the East. I say Memphis "finds a way."

I'm playing on OKC. The Suns have obviously been great in the bubble. However, lets not forget that the Thunder still boast the superior record. The Thunder still won both previous meetings this season. While the Suns are 12-17 ATS as favorites, the Thunder are 24-12 ATS as underdogs. Going back further finds them at a lucrative 47-26 ATS, when getting points, the past few seasons. The Thunder did play yesterday but it was a relatively easy win, as they were up big by halftime. Meanwhile, while OKC gets tomorrow off, the Suns will have a showdown against the 76ers. The Thunder are 16-8-1 ATS when playing a game with an O/U line of 220 or above. Grab the points and expect AT LEAST another cover Monday afternoon. 

I'm playing on BROOKLYN. The Clippers sat their top weapons down the stretch against the Blazers yesterday, seemingly not interested in winning - or perhaps even trying to give Portland the 8th spot, as that hurts the Lakers more. Yet, they won anyway. With games against Western Conf. opponents (Denver and OKC) on deck, I don't see them being highly motivated to win this one in a blowout. Yes, the Nets have now clinched a spot and will be a little short-handed themselves. However, unlike the Clippers, they had yesterday off. They can take a page out of LA's book about how to keep fighting with the backups in, too. With the Clips at 3-6-1 ATS when playing the second of b2b days, I say this one proves closer than most will be expecting. 

I'm playing on INDIANA. The Suns have gotten off to a great start here. I believe it comes to an end here though and that the Pacers, who have also gotten off to a great start of their own, are favored for good reason. In fact, that great start for the Suns has worked in our favor, keeping this line a little lower than it could easily have been. Remember, the Pacers are 42-26 while the Suns are 29-39. The Suns allow 113.9 ppg while the Pacers allow just 107.5. Speaking of those records, the Suns are still 10-20 SU their last 30 against teams with a winning record. Meanwhile, the Pacers are 31-9 SU (24-14-2 ATS) their last 40 against sub-500 teams. The Pacers won by 25, at Phoenix, in this season's earlier meeting, holding the Suns to a mere 87 points. I expect another win and cover this afternoon. 

I'm playing on PHILADELPHIA. The Spurs are off a hard-fought win, a game which came down to the wire, against the Grizzlies. While the Spurs have been solid this season, when playing the second of b2b games, this is a unique situation, being that they're still recently back to play. Remember, this will also be the Spurs' third game in four days. That said, I expect yesterday's game to take a toll on them today. The 76'ers, 6-4 SU/ATS when off a loss, allow 107.7 ppg compared the Spurs' 114.9 ppg allowed. I believe that superior defense combined with the scheduling advantage, will ultimately prove the difference. Lay the points. 

I'm playing on MEMPHIS. This is a huge game for both teams. The Spurs won their first game back while the Grizzlies dropped theirs, in OT. Memphis is still in the driver's seat though and knows it just needs to take care of its own business. I liked what I saw from the Grizzlies, despite the loss. Coach Taylor Jenkins agreed, noting: "I thought our guys executed beautifully on the offensive end. The message (for) our guys is to keep our heads up — we’ve got to learn from this and get better for the next game on Sunday...." The reality is, in my opinion, that the Spurs will not be going to playoffs this season. Expect the Grizzlies, who have taken two of three meetings, to take care of business once again, covering the small number along the way. 

I'm playing on BOSTON. While the Bucks may be the favorite for this game and to win the East, I believe the Celtics should have an advantage in this one. The Bucks closed their practice facility due to corona virus. As of this writing, they are not expected to reopen prior to leaving for Orlando. The Bucks are also scheduled to arrive in Orlando a day later than Boston, as the Celtics are among the first batch of teams scheduled for travel. Once in Orlando, all players will have to remain in their hotel rooms until they test negative on consec. days, 24 hours apart. So, the Celtics should have had more practice time prior to traveling to Orlando and they'll also get out of their rooms first. The Celtics won the first meeting, way back in October and the Bucks won by only five, in January. The Celtics are very well-coached and I look for them to take this entire experience seriously. Center Daniel Theis had this to say: "I know that our team, our players are going to follow the rules ..." I expect a focused Boston team and I'm grabbing the points. 

I'm playing on COLORADO. The Buffaloes won this season's previous meeting by 22 points. I expect another double-digit win this evening. The Cougars know they're outclassed in this one. With six losses in their past seven, they don't have much confidence. Having already played their last three on the road and understandably concerned about the coronavirus back home in Washington, its going to be tough to get the Cougars to play up to Colorado's level. Their last two losses came by a combined 30 points. Note that the Cougars are just 7-17 SU/ATS the past 24 times that they were off b2b conference losses. The Buffaloes come in on a losing streak of their own. Unlike the Cougars, they still believe that they can make some noise in this tournament. They've got a clear talent edge in this one and I expect them to demonstrate it. 

I'm playing on UTSA. The Blazers have the better record and the higher seed. However, I believe that the Roadrunners are the more talented team and I expect them to prove it now that it really matters. UTSA is led by a pair of excellent guards. Jhivvan Jackson leads the conference – and ranks second in the entire country – with 27.2 points per game. He also supplies 5.8 rebounds per game. That ranks second best in the nation among players six-feet and under. He has scored 20 or more points in 27 of 31 games. He scored 30 or more a dozen times, including a pair of 40+ point explosions. While Jackson received first team All Conference honors for the second straight season, his teammate Keaton Wallace earned second team honors. Wallace averaged 18.5 ppg after putting up 20.2 ppg the previous season. Wallace plays a lot of minutes, gets to the line and hits from downtown. In other words, the Roadrunners backcourt is in great shape. I expect that elite backcourt to make the difference in this one. UTSA is 3-0 SU/ATS its past three, when coming in off b2b conference losses. UAB, on the other hand, is 0-5 SU/ATS, its past five, when playing on a neutral court with an O/U line in the 145 to 149.5 range. Roadrunners get it done!

I'm playing on ATLANTA. The Hawks were on the right side of a double-OT game here against Charlotte on Monday. Those are the type of wins which a team can build positive momentum from. A visit from the road-weary Knicks, who were involved in a track meet at Washington yesterday, figures to be just what the doctor ordered for the Hawks to do just that. Note that the last time that the Knicks played the second of b2b games, they lost by nine. Including that result, the Knicks are an ugly 1-8 SU and 2-6-1 ATS when playing the second of b2b games. The lone 'push' was a 5-point loss, here at Atlanta. That was also the lone 'push' in the Hawks 5-1-1 ATS (6-1 SU) record as home favorites. Schedule in their favor, expect the Hawks to improve on those stats here. 

I'm playing on ATLANTA. Off three straight losses, the last two coming on the road, a home date with the Hornets is just what the doctor ordered for the Hawks. The Hawks haven't been favored all that often here this season but they've made the most of those opportunities, when they have come up. In fact, prior to a loss here a week ago as a small home favorite against Memphis, the Hawks had been 5-0 SU and 4-0-1 ATS when listed as a home favorite. Its also worth noting that the Hawks are 4-1 ATS after having failed to cover the spread in their previous three or more games. The Hornets have quietly covered six in a row. They're just 7-13 ATS over the years after having covered their previous five or more, 2-4 ATS after having covered their previous six. The Hawks, who won by 15 in this season's previous meeting, are 5-1 ATS when having trailed their previous game by 20 or more at halftime. Going back further finds them at 10-4 ATS their last 14 in that situation. Expect them to bounce back and improve on those stats Monday evening. 

I'm playing on WRIGHT STATE. Its early in the conference tournament schedule but we've already seen some upsets. Don't expect to see another here. The Raiders are the #1 seed for good reason. Wright State outscores teams by a 81.4 to 70.7 margin, by far the best in the Horizon. The Flames, on the other hand, get outscored by an average of 69.1 to 69. Their 69 points per game ranks as the third worst number in the Horizon. The Raiders probably overlooked the Flames the first time these teams met and it led to Illinois- Chicago scoring the upset. The rematch was an entirely different story though as a superior Wright State team won 75-58. Including that victory, the Raiders have won 47 of 60 conference games. The Raiders, 5-1 ATS in the Horizon Tournament the past two seasons, will know not to overlook the Flames this time. Expect them to pull away for another double-digit win. 

I'm playing on OREGON. The Cardinal are in the wrong place, at the wrong time. Playing perhaps their best basketball of the season, the Ducks come in on a roll. This was an Oregon team which was loaded with talent but also one which had a lot of roster turnover from last season and which needed some time to learn to work together. The well-coached Ducks have had that time and are now peaking at the right time. After a loss at Stanford on Feb. 1, the Ducks lost at Oregon State. However, since that time, they've won five of six, including three straight. The Ducks followed up a 1-point win against Arizona by avenging the loss against the rival Beavers with a 15-point blowout. Next, they destroyed Cal by 34. Now, on Senior Day, they will have payback on their minds from the loss at Stanford. They catch the Cardinal off a close 3-point loss at Oregon State. When these teams played here last season, the Ducks were favored by six. They won by 23. This season, Stanford averages less than 70 ppg on the road while Oregon averages more than 80 at home. Not only did the Ducks score 90 last game, they allowed just 56. They're 22-8 ATS their last 30, after allowing 60 or fewer points. Expect another double-digit win. 

I'm playing on HOUSTON. After getting embarrassed by the Clippers last game, the Rockets will be looking to take out their frustration on someone. Facing a team which they have dominated, I expect them to do exactly that. A look at the recent meetings between these teams reveals that the Rockets have won the last seven. Five of the last six victories, including each of the past two, have come by double-digits. Off b2b very close losses, the Hornets, 9-20 at home, are vulnerable to getting blown out here, in my opinion. Those close losses can take a toll. (The Hornets are 1-6 SU off a loss of three or less.) The Rockets are 13-5 SU the past 18 times that they were off a loss of 15 or more points, including 3-1 SU/ATS the past four. They're also a perfect 4-0 SU/ATS the past four times that they were off a game where they trailed by 15 or more at halftime. Expect them to be all business from the opening tip in this one. 

I'm playing on MISSOURI STATE. The Sycamores are the higher seed but now that it really matters, I believe that the Bears will prove to be the better team. The Bears are peaking at the right time, playing their best basketball of the season. When these teams met on 2/1, the Bears were mired in a slump. Indiana State won. Since that time, however, the Bears have gone 5-3 including a win against these same Sycamores. Last time out, they hammered Southern Illinois by a score of 84-59. Its no coincidence that this Missouri State team got better with the addition of senior (walk-on) Ross Owens. As Owens noted: "We're playing better. We're winning. Everybody on the team is working for the same goal, and that's winning." Bears get it done. 

I'm playing on WASHINGTON. I really like how this one sets up for the Wizards. They're off a blowout loss at Portland to close out a 1-3 trip out West. Now, however, they're back home for what is expected to be a track meet with the Hawks. As of this writing, the O/U line sits at 246.5. That suits the Wizards just fine; they're 20-10 ATS the past 30 times that they played a home game with an O/U line of 230 or greater. While the Wizards have tomorrow off, the Hawks, 10-18 ATS (6-22 SU) as road underdogs, have a game against Memphis tomorrow. Considering that those same Grizzlies just hammered them 127-88 at Atlanta, thats a game that the Hawks could easily get caught looking ahead to. These teams have split this season's first two meetings. In both cases, the home team won by double-digits. Expect another win and cover for the home team in this one. 

I'm playing on HOUSTON. Talk about lack of respect. The Rockets are 21-8 at home while the Clippers are 17-13 on the road. Yet, the oddsmakers are telling us its a coin-flip (pick'em) game. Just needing to win, I feel that the Rockets are offering us excellent value. While the Clippers could easily get caught looking ahead to a showdown vs. the Lakers, the Rockets have Charlotte on deck. Nothing to get caught looking ahead to there. The Rockets have taken two of three meetings on the season and they're 16-9 SU/ATS against winning teams overall. They won the earlier game here by nine. Even with a loss to open the month, they're a dominant 26-5 in the month of March the past two seasons. I expect them to improve on those stats tonight. 

I'm playing on DRAKE. While these teams split the regular season meetings, both winning at home, I believe that the Bulldogs bring more to the table in this matchup. Note that Drake is 10-2 ATS its last 12 on a neutral court and that includes a 3-1 ATS mark as a neutral court favorite of six or less. Illinois State does check in off a win at Evansville but is just 3-9 ATS the past couple of seasons, when off a win as an underdog. The last time that the Redbirds played back-to-back games away from home, they lost by 20. Bulldogs get it done, setting up a rematch with top-seeded Northern Iowa in the quarters. 

I'm playing on MILWAUKEE. The Pacers are in the wrong place, at the wrong time. Yes, I won with the Pacers when these teams played a few weeks ago. However, that was at Indiana and the Bucks were without the league's best player. Here's an excerpt from what I said that day: "While the Bucks have shown that they can win without Giannis, they're obviously not as dangerous without him. He'll be out tonight, after the birth of his first child. I expect the Pacers to take full advantage of his absence. Yes, the Pacers are just 2-6 ATS their last eight. However, they're also 9-1 ATS the past 10 times that they had failed to cover six, or seven, of their previous eight games. During that span, the Pacers are also 13-6-1 ATS when off an upset loss as a home favorite, 2-0 ATS off b2b upsets as a home favorite and 4-1 ATS after b2b upset losses as favorites. Throw in the fact that the Pacers are 5-2 ATS when playing with revenge from a loss of 20 or more and the home team gets it done tonight." Of course, things are different now. The Bucks are back home and Giannis is back. When the Bucks hosted the Pacers earlier, they won by a score of 117-89. Off a loss and playing with revenge, the Bucks are going to be more dangerous than ever. They're 14-6 ATS (18-2 SU) the last 20 times that they were off a road loss, in a game where they were favored. Overall, they're 32-12 ATS the past couple of seasons, off an upset loss, 13-3 ATS off an upset loss by double-digits. Expect them to improve on those stats in blowout fashion tonight. 

I'm playing on INDIANA. The Hoosiers already hammered the Gophers at Minnesota, a 68-56 win. Knowing that they need to take care of business to stamp their ticket to the Big Dance, I expect the Hoosiers to take care of business once again. To their credit, the Gophers have played better recently. However, they're off b2b heartbreaking losses, losing by a single point against Maryland and then by just two at Wisconsin. That Maryland loss really stung, as they blew a huge lead (up 16 at half) and lost on a 3-pointer with less than two seconds to go. Then, to go and lose another really close one against the Badgers, has to take a toll. I expect them to be emotionally drained. Look for a highly motivated effort from the Hoosiers as they complete the series sweep, covering the small number along the way. 

I'm playing on WISCONSIN-MILWAUKEE. These teams are very evenly matched and they've already played two really close games against each other this season. In both cases, the road team won. The Penguins won by four at Milwaukee. The Panthers won by two, here at Youngstown State. So, they know that they can win here. I'm expecting another close one, as they teams open tournament play. The Youngstown State defense isn't good and that makes covering points difficult. The Penguins are 4-8 ATS the last 12 times that they were home favorites of six or less. They're also 9-16 ATS their last 25, when playing a home game with an O/U line in the 140 to 144.5 range. They've won just seven of their last 34 games played in the month of March. The Panthers are 7-3 ATS their last 10, when playing a road game with an O/U line in the 140 to 144.5 range. In what should be another close one, grab the points.

I'm playing on PORTLAND. The Blazers won't get Lillard back for this one, as they had hoped earlier in the week. Of course, this is reflected in the line, as we wouldn't be getting the Blazers as a big underdog otherwise. While its possible he'll be back next game, the Blazers can't wait for their star. They need this game to salvage at least something from their trip. They've fallen back in the West and can't afford to fall back any further. The Magic are a team which they can absolutely compete with. While Orlando is 5-5 its past 10 games, none of the five wins came by more than 10 points. Two came by less than five. Last time, the Magic lost by one. This one could easily also come down to the wire and this is a lot of points to be getting. Note that Portland has won the last six meetings with the Magic. The last time that Orlando won a game in the series was January of 2017 and that win came by only six. Looking back further finds that Orlando has won seven of the past 20 meetings but that none of those wins came by more than 10. Beating the Blazers is never easy for them and they'll be facing a desperate team in this one. Yes, the Magic would obviously like to avenge a December loss in Portland. However, they're just 7-19-4 ATS their past 30 in the revenge role. That includes an ugly 1-18-1 ATS mark when playing with revenge from a road loss. So, thats not exactly a motivator for them! With a 20-7 record their past 27 against teams from the Southeast, look for the Blazers to bring their best effort, at least taking this game down to the wire with a great shot at the outright win. 

I'm playing on COLORADO. The Buffaloes may be slight underdogs here but I believe they've got more talent and I absolutely expect them to come away with the victory. The Buffaloes are 5-2 ATS off a SU loss and 10-5 ATS off an ATS loss. Having dropped two straight (and three straight against the number) they're going to be a highly determined team. Note that Colorado is 2-0 SU/ATS as a road underdog of three or less. While it wins games with its defense, Colorado, which scored 81 when these teams met at Boulder, still averages more than 71 ppg. Thats noteworthy as the Cardinal are 0-7 when they allow 68 or more. I say the Buffs bounce back.

I'm playing on UC IRVINE. The Anteaters are playing great basketball. They've won nine of their last 10. The lone loss came against these same Gauchos, at UC Santa Barbara. Tonight, its payback time. The Gauchos may be without leading scorer Max Heidegger, as he went down with a left ankle injury midway through the first half of their last game. UCSB head coach Joe Pasternack had this to say: "It was terrible to see Max go down ..." Either way, I expect them to struggle against the Anteaters. The Anteaters only give up only 60.9 ppg at home and will absolutely make scoring difficult for the Gauchos, who have failed to hit the 50 mark in two of their last three visits here. The last three games here between these teams have seen the Anteaters win by scores of 83-70, 69-49 and 64-47. Expect another double-digit win here. 

I'm playing on SAN ANTONIO. While the Spurs will be without Aldridge, they've still got more than enough to take care of business at home against an Orlando team which is playing its second game in two days. Yes, Aldridge does a lot. DeRozan and co. can carry the load for a game which the Spurs badly need. It should be noted that Orlando is just 1-8 SU and 2-5-2 ATS, when playing its second game in two days. The Spurs, who have had the past couple of days off, play with revenge from an earlier 2-point loss at Orlando. They're 10-5 ATS the last 15 times that they attempted to avenge a road loss. Prior to the 2-point loss, the previous meeting between these teams saw San Antonio win by 39. While the Spurs likely won't win by that many tonight, I do expect them to ultimately pull away for another comfortable victory. 

I'm playing on WASHINGTON. After losing 9-straight, the Huskies finally earned a victory last time out. It wasn't just any win either as they hammered Cal by a score of 87-52. Off that momentum-building blowout, the losing streak now in the rear-view mirror, I expect the Huskies to follow it up with another big win against their instate rivals. Note that one of those nine losses came at Washington State, the Cougars winning by a 79-67 score. Needless to say, the Huskies haven't forgotten. Prior to that 2/9 loss, the Huskies had beaten the Cougars four straight times. The last meeting here at Washington saw the Huskies win 85-67. The previous meeting here at Washingto resulted in a 80-62 win for the Huskies. Remember, Washington was ranked at one point and started the season with a win against #1 Baylor. This is a team with some talent. Expect the revenge-minded Huskies to salvage the series split with another double-digit win. 

I'm playing on CHARLOTTE. The Raptors recent destroyed the Pacers. The Pacers turned around and hammered the Hornets. So, that should mean that the Raptors beat the Hornets by even more, right? While its possible, that type of logic rarely works in sports handicapping. While those results have helped us by providing an extra generous line, this is an entirely new game and matchup. I expect the Hornets, who have since responded to the Indiana loss by beating NY, to give the champs a tough game. Note that the last time these teams met, the Raptors won by only two points. In fact, three of the past four meetings between these teams have been decided by two points or less. The Hornets have actually won four of six overall, too. A look at Toronto's last eight games reveals that only two resulted in wins of greater than 11. Grab the points and expect another close one. 

I'm playing on PHILADELPHIA. The Knicks are in the wrong place, at the wrong time. Both teams lost on the road last night. The Knicks fought hard until the end but lost at Charlotte. The 76ers got blown out at Cleveland. While the Knicks' loss was "normal," the 76'ers' loss was unacceptable. There's no way they should get hammered by a team like Cleveland. Back home and still stinging from that loss, they should be ready to take out their anger on the Knicks tonight. The 76ers have actually won seven of their last eight, when playing the second of b2b games. The last time that they were in that situation, they beat Memphis by 12. The last two times that the 76ers were off a double-digit loss, they immediately followed it up with a double-digit win. While they're without Simmons and likely Embid (having MRI today) the 76ers have more than enough talent and pride to bounce back once again. Expect them to do just that. 

I'm playing on UTAH. Tough spot for the Celtics. After a hard-fought game against the Lakers on Sunday, they played at Portland last night. That makes this their third road game in the past four days. Don't expect the Jazz to show them any sympathy. The Jazz, 15-5 SU and 12-6-2 ATS against teams from the East, have dropped three straight and they got embarrassed last time out, losing by 20 to the Suns, right here in front of their home fans. That's inexcusable. Like the Pacers last night, who were also off an embarrassing loss, I expect the Jazz to respond with a huge effort. Note that the Jazz are a perfect 6-0 SU and 5-1 ATS the past six times that they were off an upset loss by 15 or more, when they were a home favorite. They're also 15-8 ATS (17-6 SU) the past couple of seasons, after failing to cover three or more consecutive games. Knowing that they'll face these same Celtics, at Boston, on 3/6, look for the Jazz to take advantage of the favorable schedule and to take care of business on their home floor.

I'm playing on PENN STATE. While I successfully played against the Nittany Lions in their last game, a 68-60 loss at Indiana, I'm coming right back with them in this one. Back at home and now off consecutive losses, the Lions are going to be in an angry mood. The fact that they already lost at Rutgers will only add to that. The Knights won their first road game of 2020, eking out a victory at Nebraska on 1/3. Since then, however, they've lost every single road game that they've played, going 0-5 SU in those games. In fact, that win at Nebraska was their only true road win all season. The bottom line is that the Knights are in the wrong place, at the wrong time. The last time that Penn State played a home game, after having lost their previous two or more, they hammered Ohio State by a score of 90-76. Expect another double-digit win this evening. 

I'm playing on INDIANA. The Hornets are in the wrong place, at the wrong time. The Pacers were humiliated at Toronto on Sunday and are going to be in an extremely angry mood. Indeed, that was an ugly loss, as the champs beat them by 46. Thats noteworthy as Indiana is a profitable 10-4 SU/ATS the past 2+ seasons, when off a loss of 20 or more points. That includes a 6-2 ATS mark when off a road loss of 20 or more. The Hornets are also off a pretty bad loss of their own, as Brooklyn beat them by 29, at Charlotte. They don't seem to have the same type of pride as the Pacers though, as they're just 1-6 ATS the past couple of seasons, when off a home loss of 20 or more. Going back further finds them at an ugly 11-29-1 ATS (9-32 SU) in that situation. The Pacers have won the last two meetings by double-digits and they won the last meeting here at Indiana by 22. Expect another blowout. 

I'm playing on DAVIDSON. Off a disappointing and close loss at St. Joseph's, I liked how the Wildcats responded against Rhode Island. Though they narrowly missed out on the cover, they were able to pull off the OT victory. Thats the type of win they can build momentum from. Stepping down in class to face a weaker La Salle team, I expect the Wildcats to deliver a far more convincing victory. The last time that the teams played here, Davidson won by 19. While the Explorers have won their last two, those wins came against teams below them in the conf. standings, which is not the case here. Prior to the two wins, the Explorers had been mired in a 1-9 SU stretch, their most recent two losses coming by 15 and 27 points. The last time that the Explorers played the second of back-to-back road games, as they're doing here, they lost by 18. I say that the "good Davidson" shows up and delivers another beatdown. 

I'm playing on UTAH. The Suns are in the wrong place at the wrong time. Off b2b losses, the Jazz are going to be an angry team. They're 3-0 SU/ATS when off a double-digit loss at home, in a game where they were favored. Going back further finds them at 9-4 ATS their last 13 in that situation. The Suns, on the other hand, are 8-14 ATS (5-17 SU) when off a victory. While they won a close one at Phoenix earlier, the Jazz have beaten the Suns 10 straight times here and those games haven't been close. Eight of those victories came by double-digits, including each of the past four. The Suns are just 5-12-1 ATS (4-14 SU) when attempting to avenge a loss of three of less. I'm expecting another double-digit win for the Jazz. 

I'm playing on OKLAHOMA STATE. The Jayhawks are laying a massive number here. Given the fact that they're going to be a tired team, after leaving it all on the floor to win at Baylor, I believe that number will prove to be too high. Bill Self had this to say of his players: "They are exhausted. They've got to be toast. Doke (Azubuike) and Marcus (Garrett) and Ochai (Agbaji) and 'Dot' (Devon Dotson) … those guys have gotta be toast with as many minutes as they played." After winning by 17 on Saturday, the Cowboys have won three of their last four. Though they did stumble at WVU, the Cowboys had covered their previous two on the road, including an 8-point loss at Baylor, a game where they were getting +12.5 points. Getting even more points against a tired Kansas team, expect the Cowboys to rise to the occasion with AT LEAST another cover. 

I'm playing on OKC. I won with the Thunder and I'm coming back with them again today. The Spurs won here earlier this month, after the teams had split this season's first two meetings, at San Antonio. However, even with their win here and a victory at Utah in their last game, the Spurs remain a poor 10-19 away from home. That makes OKC's 18-12 home record look pretty good. Note that the Spurs are 0-3 ATS the past three times that they were off two or more consecutive road wins. The Thunder are 16-9 ATS their last 25 in the revenge role. They're also 7-3 ATS the last 10 times that they were home favorites of six or less. Additionally, they're 10-2 ATS when off a double-digit win, 6-1 ATS off a double-digit home win. Expect them to improve on those stats here. 

I'm playing on INDIANA. The Nittany Lions come in with the better record. However, the Hoosiers have both homecourt and momentum on their side. Last time out, Penn State saw its winning streak snapped, losing at home against Illinois. Indiana, on the other hand, hammered Minnesota by double-digits, on the road, last time out. In their last home game, the Hoosiers handled Iowa, also by double-digits. Playing with revenge from a loss at Penn State and hungry for a win over a ranked opponent, I look for the Hoosiers to get it done once again. 

I'm playing on DUKE. The Hokies are in the wrong place, at the wrong time. After getting upset at NC State, the Blue Devils are going to be in an angry mood here and looking to keep the pedal to the metal the entire game. After they're last loss, the Blue Devils were listed as a -19-point favorite against Miami in their next game. They won by 30. Speaking of Miami, the Hurricanes just dropped 102 points on the Hokies, at V-Tech. Note that the Hokies are 1-4 ATS when off an upset loss. They're 2-6 off a conf. loss overall. The Blue Devils are a dominant 18-4 ATS (20-2 SU) the past 22 times that they lost by double-digits in a game where they were favored, 11-2 ATS when off a double-digit loss in a game where they were favored by six or more. Expect this one to get ugly. 

I'm playing on ATLANTA. You may recall that Doncic and Young were traded for each other on draft night, in 2018. So, they'll always be linked together and whenever they meet, its going to be a big deal. Both are having huge seasons and both were starters in the All Star Game. The Mavs won the earlier meeting, at Dallas. However, Doncic didn't play in that one and Young left partway through with an ankle injury. Tonight, both are ready to go. With the venue and schedule in their favor, I expect Young and the Hawks to have the advantage. Note that Young scored a career high 50 last time out, the Hawks winning outright against Miami. They since had yesterday off. The Mavs, on the other hand, will play their second game in two days. The Hawks have quietly won five of their last six games here overall, the lone loss coming by single digits. The only two teams to beat them here since 1/20 were Boston and Toronto and both those games were close. They've also beaten the Mavs six straight times here and seven of the last eight. While Doncic will surely do his thing, expect Young and co. to ultimately get (at least) the cover. 

I'm playing on WASHINGTON. Both teams are currently struggling. Both will be looking for a win but I expect homecourt to prove the difference. While they haven't fared well overall at the betting window this season; this is one role which the Huskies have performed well in. They're 2-1 ATS as home favorites of six or fewer points, 1-0 ATS as a home favorite of three or less. Tonight, they'll be looking to avenge an earlier 6-point loss at Stanford. The last time that the teams played here, the Huskies hammered the Cardinal by an 80-64 score. Stanford is just 3-7 ATS the past 10 times it was a road underdog of six or less. As disappointing as this season has been, the Huskies match up well against the Cardinal. In the earlier game at Stanford, the Huskies were up eight at halftime and they were up 12 with a little more than 10 minutes to go. They let that one get away but tonight, playing at home, look for them to avenge that loss, covering the small number along the way. 

I'm playing on DETROIT. I believe that the Pistons are catching the Bucks at the right time. Fresh off the All-Star Game/Break, Giannis and co. may not be fully focused on the lowly Pistons. That's particularly true with a big home game against the 76'ers on deck. Yet, they're being asked to lay a massive number on the road. Note that they're just 1-3 ATS over the years, when favored by more than 12.5 points on the road. During that span, the Bucks are also an ugly 49-68-2 ATS when playing with three or more day's rest in between games, a 1-2 ATS mark their last three in that situation. The Pistons, who play with double-revenge, will be anxious to stop the bleeding and to avoid getting embarrassed, like what happened last time (12/4) the Bucks visited. Grab the generous points and expect the Pistons to give their guests a much tougher game than many will be expecting. 

I'm playing on VIRGINIA. The Eagles are in the wrong place, at the wrong time. The Cavs haven't forgotten that BC beat them, at Boston College, last month. Remember, this is a BC team which the Cavs hammered 83-56 in last season's lone meeting. That was at BC, too. Now, finally catching the Eagles on their home floor, this one should also result in a blowout. The Eagles are 0-2 ATS off an upset win, within the conference, when listed as a home underdog. Overall, they're 2-5 ATS off a home win. Off b2b close wins, and now stepping down considerably in class, the Cavs are ready to deliver a beating. BC allows 72.9 ppg on the road while Virginia allows 48.4 ppg at home. Expect a rout. 

I'm playing on VILLANOVA. The Wildcats have struggled to cover of late. However, they can finally claim the "All-Time Big 5 Title" lead, with a win this afternoon and I fully expect a game against the rival Owls to bring out their best. Last meeting, Villanova pulled away for a double-digit (69-59) win. Not only are the Owls outclassed, they're 1-3 SU/ATS their last four, when off a conference win. They're also dealing with a few players who are playing at less than 100%. Wright this of Villanova's history and the importance of this game: "We talk to them about basketball history all the time and a big part of Villanova history is Big 5 history and living here in the city. We want them to respect Philadelphia basketball ..." I like that Nova checks in off a 1-point win over Marquette, as thats the type of victory a team can build momentum from. Look for the Cats to do exactly that this afternoon. 

I'm playing on COLORADO. The Beavers are going to face an angry bunch of Buffaloes on Saturday. Not only is Colorado angry about blowing its last game, at Oregon, but the Buffaloes also haven't forgotten that the Beavers upset them, at Boulder, back on January 5th. At the time, the Buffs may have been in letdown mode, off a big win over Oregon. That sure won't be the case this time though. Colorado is a perfect 4-0 SU/ATS the past four times that it was off a loss. Off their previous three 2020 losses, the Buffaloes won by scores of 91-52, 78-56 and 78-57. Last season, the Beavers also won at Boulder. Then, in the rematch, the revenge-minded Buffaloes went to Oregon State and, laying -2.5, won by a score of 73-58. Expect more of the same. 

I'm playing on SOUTH DAKOTA STATE. There's an obvious talent gap between these teams, as evidenced by their records and their places in the Summitt standings. The Pioneers are in last while the Jackrabbits are challenging for the top spot. The Jackrabbits have won seven straight in the series, winning by an average of 13 points. Tonight's margin of victory should be even greater. Denver has lost 11 straight on the road, getting outscored by an average of 82.2 to 66.7. Meanwhile, South Dakota State has won 13 straight at home, outscoring visiting teams by an average score of 81.8 to 63.3. The Pioneers are 4-9 ATS their last 13 when attempting to avenge a loss and they're 1-4 ATS their last five when off an upset loss as a home favorite. The Jackrabbits have been money as home favorites all season long. No reason for them not to keep the pedal to the medal the entire way and win this one by 20+. 

I'm playing on BOSTON. The Clippers won a close one when these teams met at LA earlier. I believe homecourt will again prove the difference. While the Clippers are a mediocre 15-12 on the road, the Celtics are a dominant 22-5 at home. LA outscores teams by a 114 to 111.4 margin on the road. Boston outscores teams by a 115.9 to 105.9 margin here at home. The Clips are 3-5 ATS as road underdogs. The Celtics are 6-4 ATS as home favorites of six or fewer points. With the Celts also 8-3 SU/ATS when attempting to avenge a road loss, I'm laying the short number.