Taking FIU tonight. This is about the Panthers defense in this one. 19-20-16-3 (LIU) points allowed. First three games are what matter. New Mexico State. 17 vs Florida State, 19 vs Hawaii, 18 vs New Mexico. They did erupt on the short week last week and dealt me a loss (had WKU) And they put up 51 on Merceyhurst. We had been involved in 3 of their last 4 games going 1-2. FIU dropped games 19-9 at USF and 16-10 at FAU but beat Buffalo here 33-20 and again, LIU. Do I trust New Mexico State who is 1-8 SU their last 9 on the road to be within striking distance for a back door cover here? The answer is no. This line is up to a 6 now, which makes sense. I think this a 10pt win for the home team. 4* Money Maker FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL 

Going UNDER the total tonight. Right off the bat, Kennesaw 4-0 to the under in all 4 games this season. Closest they game to go over was a 47-0 win over West Georgia total 50.5  31 Points total 52.5 - 51 Points total 60.5 - 48 Points total 55.5. These guys played twice last year 35-26 total 55.5 and 19-15 total 61.5. But this is a new year. And the Kennesaw offense is sputtering. 2 passing TDs. 22ppg. Kennesaw will want to run the ball. Their dual threat QB leads the team in rushing. RB Wood has 169, Murrell 154 and Morgan 104. Run that ball and churn that clock. Jacksonville State isn't a great team but should be able to contain a team that ranked 110th in scoring. I have this game in the 27-17 range and even if Jacksonville hits 30, we are still under the total. 4* Total Money UNDER Jacksonville State/ Kennesaw State

4* Money Maker NEW ORLEANS SAINTS

Going OVER the total. Man. I totally misread Atlanta last week. You have seen my write ups this year. I have a Stefanski COY ticket. I sing the guys' praises. I thought he gave them a shot at winning the NFC South. Cooper Rush looked horrible. And yet, on a short week, Pennix comes in and is great. Now he has some extra time to get more familiar with his offense. Now, with that game, comes game tape. I do like the Saints to win here tonight. They gave that game away last week to the Raiders. But the fat of the matter is, t,he Saints defense will give up points. We saw a 7-0 game at the half in Detroit turn into 31-30. They held down the Ravens to just 17 points. Then last week's 35-27 game. And they score. Like I said 30-27 and 24 in Baltimore. Falcons have some weapons on the O. I think this one is a back and forth affair and the Saints hit a 50 yard FG to win it 41-38!  4* Total Money OVER Falcons/ Saints

4* Total Money OVER Lions/ Carolina

Taking SEATTLE. A terrible loss for both teams last week. Chargers still winless. Is this where you bet them? Oh, they are due? Due? Hope in one hand and poop in the other, see what fills up first! Due. Due! Come on. They get what 4,5 turnovers and still can't cover a number. Seattle is ready to close the Charger casket this afternoon. Seatle hurt themselves away in Washington last week. I am not discounting this coaching staff at home to rebound big. Seattle at home off a 3 turnover game still scored 31 in Darnold's first game back. Playing in this stadium, a team on a 21-4 SU run.  4* Money Maker SEATTLE SEAHAWKS

Taking the NINERS. Listen. Denver is not a good team. Although my disdain for them is not on the Patriots level, they are better than NE, they just aren't good enough to stay within 10 of San Fran. Denver looked like trash at KC. They need a comeback in the 4th quarter to beat the Jaguars. And they needed multiple rabbits coming out of hats to beat the Rams. Denver much bigger fish to fry next week at Chargers (Niners travel to Seattle) - But I have SF at home here and laying a short number. I'm laying it. 4* Money Maker SAN FRANCISCO 49ers

Taking the TEXANS. Well, look ahead lines looks good on this one as the line has moved to -3. I would still lay the 3 here. Houston winless and the line is growing. The fact that this team was 0-3 last year and still made the playoffs - they are tough. And Dallas. Forget about letting Zay Flowers get open for the game winning FG.  How don't you score from the 2 and get 7 instead of a FG. Better coach on Texans. Dallas will make a dumb mistake somewhere. 4* Money Maker HOUSTON TEXANS

4* Total Money OVER Patriots/ Bills

Taking the JAGUARS, again. We are perfect in Jags game. Laid it week 1. Faded week 2. Rolled with them last week, and we go for the 4-0 run this afternoon. I am a Jacksonville believer. Again. We have a coaching edge. Bengals have time and time again done more with less. I think they are the better team. Nothing else. You want to give me points when I think Jags win outright. I'll take them and say thank you. 4* Money Maker JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS

Taking the RAMS. Another game on the move. Folks, sometimes you don't have to wait till game day to get a bet down. Try to a leave little in the account. I do Look Ahead Lines, 5 years now. Sunday nights going over all the games and telling you what will be moving in the morning and days to come. Check it out sometime available wherever you get your favorite podcasts. So to Philly - Smith looks to be out for the Eagles. That can't help losing a top WR like him. Rams blow a 16-0 point lead and Denver still needs a Pick 6 to pull a rabbit out of their hat. And what have we see out of Philly. Case Keenum hadn't thrown a ball in 3 years and feasted. Philly striggled with Titans and Washington. Now they get a legit team off a bad loss. Get right spot for the Rams. Short week, injuries, lack luster OL + DL fo the home team. This very well can be a 30-10 game for the Rams. 4* Money Maker LA RAMS

Taking the BILLS. Not a fan of the Patriots or 'Fake' Maye. Someone said that in one of my show chats and I had to grab it. So true. We had Jags last week over New England. The Patriots and more importantly, Drake Maye struggle vs playoff caliber defenses and teams. Proof is in the pudding. And we get the Bills, off a horrible game that they somehow still covered a TD spread. Buffalo on a mission this year led by their fearless QB. 4* Money Maker BUFFALO BILLS

4* Total Money UNDER San Jose State/ Hawaii

Taking ARIZONA STATE here. Stop me if you heard this before about Baylor HC Dave Aranda being on the hot seat. This guy passed up a bowl game. As if his team doesn't need extra practices. Dillingham over at Arizona State has his team going in the right direction. 5th straight week for the Bears and first road trip. Sun Devils off bye week and a win vs Kansas State across the pond. ASU 9-3-1 ATS run at home. 4* Money Maker ARIZONA STATE

Taking TEMPLE. Why is USF favored by nearly a touchdown? Beat FIU 19-9, Army 28-24 (a 40 yard TD pass with like 4 seconds left) and Bowling Green 14-6. Temple is 1-3 Blew a 2 TD lead at Toledo. Out yarded Army but lost. Played Penn State tough. Veteran coach vs 1st year coach. Don't be shocked at an outright Temple win in this one. 4* Money Maker TEMPLE OWLS

Taking NEBRASKA. It is over for Locksley in Maryland. UCLA just destroyed them. Now they hit the road. Now 9 straight Big 10 losses. Send in the clowns. Huskers 4-0 and smell blood in the water. This should be a 30 point blowout. Locksley 7-17-1 ATS as away dog. Maryland 5-20-1 as a Big 10 away dog. Applications welcome 1st half, FG. Nebraska rolls. 4* Money Maker NEBRASKA

Taking NC STATE. Louisville doing UL things. Cover as dogs vs Ole Miss. Upset SMU. Lose next game as double digit favorite to Wake. Now some injury talk for the QB, line has come down. NC State rebounded from a 34-8 loss to open the season at Virginia. Crushed Richmond 73-0. Lost at Vandy in horrific fashion. Led Appalachian State 28-10, won 41-31. Should be on a 3 game win streak. Wolfpack 8-1 as home ACC dogs iwth 7 outright wins. I think the wrong team is favored in this one especially if UL goes true fresh QB or West Georgia QB.  4* Money Maker NC STATE

4* Total Money OVER Florida/ Missouri 

Taking OHIO STATE. The more and more I look at this, we are taking Ohio State. Iowa just in a terrible flat spot off that Michigan come from behind miracle. 4-0 Iowa. Northern Iowa and Northern Illinois. Come on. 16-13 over Iowa State. You know who Ohio State has lost to recently. Texas on the road, who I think is ranked pretty high. And Indiana and Miami. One the Natty Champion the other the Natty Runner Up! I know that Iowa has a defense. But can they score enough? I don't think they can. OSU pulls away in this one. We don't need 38+ for a cover. 27-10 is a cover. 4* Money Maker OHIO STATE 

Taking SMU. Boston College scored 15 at Cincy and won 22-16 vs Maine. Looked bad on a sloppy field vs VT last week. Beat Rutgers team with a backup QB and a defense that has more holes in it than Swiss cheese. SMU aerial attack is too much for BC to handle. Last week they sleep-walked through a game after losing to Louisville. This is a 'get right' spot for the Mustangs. 4* Money Maker SMU

Taking ALABAMA. Nice and simple here people. Mississippi State is having a nice year. Well, he comes Alabama, LSU, Oklahama and Texas. 4-0 will be 4-4. But don't you fret SEC fans. You can still say, well, we beat a RaNkeD team so 8-4 is good. I know Bama has Georgia on deck. But there is not a snowmans chance in H E double Hockey Sticks that DaBoer is going to look past this team they way they are playing. The defense will force a turnover that will be the difference maker in this game and get us the cover. Fact is, as good as Mississippi State is playing, the talent gap is still tilted heavily to Alabama. Miss State 0-7 ATS vs Top 10 ranked teams. Bama 16-0 SU with 6 straight covers. Why isn't this line 10? Kentucky line was bigger. Bama Rolls. 4* Money Maker ALABAMA

Taking NORTH CAROLINA here. This team was persona non grata to start they year. Money pouring in on TCU in Ireland. 15-10 NC wins. Under never in doubt. And that is why I like NC and the points today. The defense. Heels play some defense. Forget that Clemson 28-20 loss. That game was 17-3 and a stupid weather delay for hours forced NC into a hot, cramped locker room letting all the adrenaline drain out of them, while Clemson kicked back and recharged. Terrible. Yes I am bitter losing NC +4.5 that game! - So bye week, defense, check. Notre Dame.  Easy work of Purdue last week 49-10. Mich State 27-10. Rice 52-0. Wiscy 41-13. 33 points allowed in 4 games. I thought about the under in this one, 47.5. Might still get there. Anything over 21 would be a play for me in this one. 34-14 gets us the cover. 4* Money Maker NORTH CAROLINA 

Taking SYRACUSE. Huskies forced OT last year in Syracuse. You can rest assured Fran Brown has his team 100% focused off the bye week. SU DC is former Toledo guy so he will know some of the Uconn players that new HC Jason Candle brings. So this line is no 6.5 and I am a bit surprised. I mean, ok, off a bye week and SU is the better team. But I have see plenty of people have this at 2/3 range not the 5/6 range. That being said, if I am taking a -5/6 I am expecting a win of 10 or more points. This too me comes down to QB play. Orange QB totally cost us the game vs Cal with 3 INTs. He has 5 the last 2 games (at Pitt). They totally out-yarded Cal and were almost even with Pitt. The TOs + penalties, they shoot themselves in their own feet! We had Maryland here laying 13.5 and we weren't worries. We won't be here either. Orange 34-20. 4* Money Maker SYRACUSE

Taking NORTHWESTERN. Last we saw the Wildcats they were battling it out last Friday in a tough loss at Indiana. Now they come home to their brand new digs to face Penn State. We faded PSU last week and took home an outright win as 10point dogs. Love it. Helps my Under 9.5 PSU win ticket. I am not a fan of this coach or this team. Northwestern beat Penn State last year. I think they do it again this year. Chip Kelly will expose this Nittany Lions defense. Matt Campbell and Rocco Becht are not offensive dynamos. 4* Money Maker NORTHWESTERN

Taking VIRGINIA TECH. I am a James Frankling believer. Especially vs any team not at the top of their confernece. We have seen throughout his Penn State days, and even to the start of his Hokies regime, he beats teams  he is suppose to. And this is a team VT should beat by double digits. I thnk Hokies have better defense. I am not sold on Pitt QB who has 13 TDs and 0 INTs - but all those TDs vs Bucknell and Miami Ohio. 1 INT vs UCF + Syracuse ZERO touchdown passes. 4* Money Maker VIRGINIA TECH

Taking the BROWNS. Cleveland at 2-1. Yeah. Winning at Tampa was not on my checklist, I had Tampa. But as I said last week with taking the Browns. Watson is coming around into game shape. The guy has not been terrible. He is doing enough for you to be in a game. And as a home dog vs the Steelers? Sign me up. Short week division rivalry game. These guys have split the last 12 in the series. Steelers erupted last week and crushed my Under. I don't see that in this matchup. Rodgers is old. This guy can't come out and play like that with short week rest. Not a chance. First year HC usually struggle Thursday night will be the talking point if this goes down. I was down on the Steelers coming into the season, no way I back them as short road faves. Watson with 5TDs and just 1 INT. Judkins is a quality back. I think the kid is solid. Gotta like Fannin at TE. He's Watson's favorite target. Concepcion is a guy he loves. I think Rodgers throws 2 INTs tonight. It is ugly and the Browns win outright 23-16. 4* Money Maker CLEVELAND BROWNS

Taking WESTERN KENTUCKY in this one. Let me tell ya. I had Florida State week 1 vs New Mexico State. Aggies cover. Took them to roll Mercyhurst. Took a bit to get going, they covered a huge number. Took them at Hawaii the next week. Nope. And I wanted to pull the trigger on their rival New Mexico last week. I should have. QB play has been their problem, and it looks like the switch as been made. A QB is always tough. Doing it on a short week? I mean, ok you are home. But you are playing a team that has beating you 35-16, 41-28 and 38-29 the last 3 seasons. And, these are the same 2 coaches. So, yes players change, the coaching is still the same. WKU was losing games on the road in Nevada, the Georgia Bulldogs and the Indiana Hoosiers before crushing, oh, Mercyhurst 52-7 last week. Stronger schedule. Coaching edge. QB Change. Short week. A team off an instate rivalry game getting blasted. I can't believe New Mexico State was even favored in this one to begin with. 4* Money Maker WESTERN KENTUCKY

Taking the BEARS. Sometimes taking an early number can really come back to bite you. Sure, we had some good number, but that doesn't mean it is an automatic win or cover. Same with a bad number like this. Yes, We have a QB problem. But honestly, I am not concerned. Would I like a couple more points, yeah. Who wouldn't? I think the Bears win this. They have an offensive minded coach. He will have the team ready to go. And the Eagles. Maybe they didn't play down to the Commies in Week 1. They nearly lost last week to the Titans. I am 100% not sold on them being the best in the NFC East. They have some problems. Goedert out. Barkley banged up. I need a win for the sites here with a ML play. But at +4.5, anything more than a FG, the Bears are still the play. 4* Money Maker CHICAGO BEARS

Taking the RAMS. Yeah. Short week. On the road. Plus road favorites. What is there to like about the Rams in this spot? We had Denver last week and they took care of business for us. I actually might be taking the under in this one too. Haven't yet. You knew both the Rams and Broncos would bounce back after their poor national tv performances vs the Niners + Chiefs. They did that. Now, who is the better team? It's the Rams. I think they have the better defense, and of course the better quarterback. We aren't asked to cover a huge number here at all. Broncos did need 2 fourth quarter touchdowns to get past the Jaguars. They won't get that in this one. 4* Money Maker LA RAMS

Taking the SAINTS. I know the Raiders are a nice story out of the gate at 2-0. Pummeled the Dolphins who, 'play hard.' Then took care of the Chargers who don't know that double digit home faves are suppose to win and cover, not lose them outright. Now they are in a back to back road spot vs a good Saints team. New Orleans 1-1 with a big win at Baltimore. But, they also nearly pulled one out in Detroit before that. No let down or, nothing left in tank. No, they went out and beat the Ravens in Baltimore. 8 straight covers for the Saints. Have to like them in this spot at home. They are the better team in what will be a huge home field advantage in the dome. 4* Money Maker NEW ORLEANS SAINTS

Going UNDER the total here. Steelers. This offense is terrible. Aaron Rodgers is done. Father Time, still undefeated. Are you worried Mason Rudolph comes in and tears it up? Wil Howard? Come on. I don't see how this gets over 42, forget about it needing to get to 47. 4* Total Money UNDER Bengals/ Steelers

Taking SEATTLE. Big move with the line as Mariota starts with the injured Daniels. Does it even matter? We saw last week that the Seahawks defense can carry a cover. They are just that good. Seattle 14-4-1 ATS on the road under McDonald. I'm telling you - this guy and the Minny guy, just great coaches. Do they really need a huge game from Drew Lock? Oh, Washington is in a huge 0-2 home dog spot. Look. This is the NFL. You lose your starting QB, you are in trouble. 4* Money Maker SEATTLE SEAHAWKS 

4* Total Money OVER Chargers/ Bills

Taking the BILLS. You kidding me. Extra rest for Buffalo at home. And, as I write this they haven't even played Thursday vs the Lions. They roll Detroit. The line goes up. They lose at home. The line goes up. The Chargers already upset at home by Arizona. A 9.5 line on Vegas is sitting at 6.5. You trust the Chargers on the road vs a Super Bowl type team like this? Getting 4? Getting anything less than a touchdown? I sure as heck don't 4* Money Maker BUFFALO BILLS

5% Play BEST BET --- DETROIT LIONS -- They haven't even played on Thursday vs the Bills yet (I have Buffalo). But I will say this on a Wednesday night and update on Friday. Obviously I think Buffalo handles them and the Lions look bad on a TNF game in front of the football world on the heels of that OT game at home vs the Saints. The line gets bet up because, NO WAY THEY LOSE to the J-E-T-S. Or -Lions win. Go on the road and be everyones QB darling Josh Allen in his new home stadium grand opening as underdogs. The line gets steamed up because the Lions are winning the Super Bowl! Win or lose, either outcome will have this line going over 7 points. I like underdogs and take underdogs. For me, the Jets are the not the underdogs to take in this spot.

Taking the BROWNS. Are we realling think Carolina wins and covers again on the road? I know the Browns will have problems this year. But are the Panthers where you want your money today? Do you really want your money on the Browns? We can call 1800GAMBLER - but let's get a win on the home dog instead. Forget the off-field stuff and why people hate Watson. He has completed nearly 77% of his passes so far. So Carolina rolled the Falcons. Same team gave up 59 to the Bears who scored 3 points the next week. Give me the home team. 4* Money Maker CLEVELAND BROWNS

Taking the TITANS here. Well. We liked these guys even before Dart went down. I  have said all summer long - how can you take the Giants as a long term win ticket with this QB, RB, WR. Your 3 main offensive skill position guys with injury concerns.  Dart + Nabers it took 2 weeks. There was a lot of pre-season love on Tennessee with people saying they would win some games. We know the defense is going to be a tough group. The offense with Cam Ward still struggling. Giants off a short week with a new QB, albeit a veteran. At the price right now, this would be a ML play for me on Titans or maybe even, get a little wild here, a Titans Team Total Over. 4* Money Maker TENNESSE TITANS

Taking the JAGUARS. Again. Faded the Jags in Denver, but will gladly take them here over the Patriots. I am not a New England guy. I think Maye has problems vs good teams. Had the Under last week vs the Steelers. I think they have scoring again in this one. 4* Money Maker JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS 

Taking OREGON STATE. Well. UTEP lost at Michigan 52-17 and at Oklahoma 51-0. They did beat Texan Southern 51-10. Now comes Oregon State. Not Michigan or Oklahoma. But an ATS powerhouse out of the gate. Played at Houston tough, and covered. Nearly pulled off a win at home over Texas Tech as 25 point dogs. They destroyed Montana who, is a Top 5 school in the FCS. This team is going to be good. The coach is good. He has this team focused which is what you need when you hit the road as a double digit favorite. This is a step down for UTEP from who they have played. But honestly, in today's NIL, transfer football, this Beavers bunch might be for real. They have looked it so far. Lay it. 4* Money Maker OREGON STATE

4* Money Maker UMASS

Taking TEXAS A&M. I am no Aggies lover. I think these guys are a bit overrated. You lose a bunch of guys to the draft, coordinators. It is tough to overcome. And now, coming in off a home loss when you were favored by about 3 scores. Not a good look losing by double digits.  You can't turn the ball over and expect to win. But then we get this overreaction off a loss for LSU. I was all over LSU last week. I will take my lumps. Not a winner. You spot a team 17 on the road, tough to win. Do I think LSU will rebound. Yeah. Better team. Covering this spread, even at 8.5 now, will be tough. Aggies will show some heart here. Tigers might have a little hangover early off that game last week. Another slow start will cost them a cover in this one I think. A&M won here last year 49-25 and 3 of the last 4 overall. Not that those really matter with coaching changes and the portal and that stuff. But Aggies won't be intimidated that's for sure. And Sam Levitt. Kid is a hit away from Landen Clark coming in. I'm thinking something in the 31-27, 34-30 range. 4* Money Maker TEXAS A&M 

4* Total Money OVER Oregon/ USC 

4* Total Money UNDER James Madison/ Old Dominion

Taking WISCONSIN here. Talk about a coach needing a win. PSU with 6 straight wins in this series dating back to 2012. Luke Fickell in year 4, but at 19-22, the seat is HOT. Yeah- you beat Eastern Michigan 54-10 and Western Illinois 36-9. You played Notre Dame tough for a half before losing 41-13. Penn State comes in averaging 42ppg, like you, whipping up on some bad teams. Wiscy at least has ND under their belts. Do I think PSU can cover this? No. I think the Badgers are good enough to score in the mid 20s in this one. (also on the OVER 44.5). Matt Campbell bought his offense with him. But, his DC is gone. This team will give up points. Not so Happy Valley for the home team. I think they are overrated and won't be shocked if the Badgers keep it close enough for an outright win.  4* Money Maker WISCONSIN 

4* Total Money OVER Wisconsin/ Penn State

Taking MICHIGAN. Yeah. In a game like this, I totally understand wanting to take the points with these defenses. But - Northern Iowa, Northern Illinois? Iowa State is always a rock fight. 0-0-13 points. Is this Northern Michigan or the Michigan Wolverines. YES. Michigan offense has not been great. I can't defend it. I had Oklahoma! Recent history means nothing. Haven't played since 2023. Wolverines have to stop turning the ball over. Going to come down to the QB that plays better for the win today. If we get some more runs for our QB, then this should be a W for Michigan. Line has moved up a point here mid week. I have Michigan by a TD in this one. 4* Money Maker MICHIGAN 

Taking FLORIDA. Do we really have to even write anything in this one. Ole Miss off the biggest win in program history. Now have to get up for a game at The Swamp? Do we forget that Ole Miss let Louisville score on them and nearly blew the game last week? This is going to hurt my season under win ticket on Florida, but the Gators are the play here. 4* Money Maker FLORIDA 

4* Total Money OVER UCLA/ Maryland 

4* Total Money UNDER Virginia Tech/ Boston College

4* Total Money OVER Wake Forest/ Louisville

Taking SAM HOUSTON. Who the heck is Texas Tech to be laying 35 or anything near that to a team. I know Sam Houston is not a great team. But they are better than 5 touchdown dog here. Bearkats 3-0 ATS on the season, and we have had them before. Texas Tech 0-3 ATS to start. We had Houston last week in a cover. The were lucky to even win at Oregon State. Now. Is Sam Houston on par with Houston or Oregon State. No. No they aren't. They are 1-2 with a iwn over Nichols. A 6 point loss to Tulsa, 3 at Troy. But this is a team that won't just roll over here. Can't overlook some Tech D guys banged up. Are they really going all out in this one with a Big 12 road opener at Colorado next week? I think the back door is wide open for us to get in. I don't think the Red Raiders put up more than 45 which is the only way they will cover 34/35 points 4* Money Maker SAM HOUSTON 

Taking WAKE FOREST. Wake a little extra rest from their Friday night Miami game. Stop me if you heard this before. UL off a big win fade? This goes back years. Score a nice win over a 'ranked' or a big road win over good program. Follow up with a stinker. Now they are off a win, a wild back and forth win over SMU. Had a bunch of turnovers to get that win, and are expected to win by nearly 2 TDs this afternoon? 41-38 vs Ole Miss, 41-31 vs SMU. Wake has put up 20-38-38. I am also on the OVER 58.5 on this one. I think we see both teams get into the 30s. If you are telling me that Louisville wins this, they are putting up 40+ and at worse, I'm in for a split. I think we catch both in a 37-27 type of game. 4* Money Maker WAKE FOREST

Taking TEXAS. I know there is some love for the Vols here. No way Arch + Sark can win a big game on the road. 100 thousand Tennessee fans will surely get under the Longhorns skin. We had Texas in their big win over Ohio State. Took a half off, gave away a couple turnovers, but battled back for the win. That is the key here. The Texas defense. Vols not on that level. And with a freshman QB, this is a tough game for the kid. Maybe it has taken a bit for Arch to get things going here. I am not concerned with his numbers last week. That was a prime let down/ look ahead spot. Just get out healthy and win. Don't show too much. If you are an anti-Texas guy - I get it. What has Sark done? Here. Bye Week then at Oklahoma. Home Florida + Ole Miss coming up. Longhorns passed the first test with a big comeback win over Ohio State. Another opportunity today to win, on the road vs a solid program. I think they do it - and they cover. 4* Money Maker TEXAS

Taking CAL here. Are you kidding me with Clemson last week? Yeah. I lost with NC. These freaking weather delays. Up 17-3 and losing when a guy busts one with a minute left. And Cal! Forget whipping Wagner. That is what you are suppose to do to a paycheck game. But, the week before - I had Syracuse. And really, at this stage of the game, I don't think much difference between Clemson and the Orange. Syracuse might be the better program right now. Young QB for a long cross country road trip. Not a good spot Clemson fans. Cal had a little hype coming into the season with their QB and their new HC. Dabo may have quited the critics for a moment, but I think it will be a long flight back after Cal wins Saturday. Clemson has yet to prove anything to me. Didn't look good last year. Doesn't look good this year. Big game for the home team and they will cash this ticket for us. 4* Money Maker CAL BEARS

Going OVER the total here. I don't even think we have seen a serious good game from the Hoosiers yet. 52-16 vs North Texas, 55-0 Howard. 38-0 Western Kentucky. I think we see an offensive show in there Big 10 opener though. After this they hit the road for games at Rutgers and Nebraska. Then Ohio State here on October 17th. Safe to say, putting up a 45 in that one might be a bit harder. I would be lying to you if I didn't think this was a bit low. I have this at 52.5. Northwestern has shown some offense themselves. 41 vs Colorado and 34s vs South Dakota State and Central Michigan. Indiana a step up. But anything more thn a 10 spot and this one goes over. Indiana 45-13. 4* Total Money OVER Northwestern / Indiana

Taking the PACKERS. Normally. I am not a fan of laying -6.5 Looks way to easy to say, oh, they just have to win by a touchdown. But this Atlantat team has problems. Already on the Under 46.5 in this one (down to 44.5). The Falcons offense will have problems once again here. On the road, short week. Even with a QB change, the short week won't get you that little bounce. Not enough time to prep. Packers in a good home spot should take care of business. 4* Money Maker GREEN BAY PACKERS

4* Total Money UNDER Falcons/ Packers -- I will gladly overreact after the Falcons game. I like those guys today. I thought Stefanki, heck, you saw my write up. I thought this guy would get this offense going. They might be the worse team in the league right now. Defense is fine. You can't expect them to hold short field turnovers to FGs everytime. Packers. Eh. Nothing to flashy on either side of the ball. But they should more than be able to keep this Dirty Bird bunch to under 16 points. 

Taking LIBERTY. Flames HC Jamey Chadwell back at his old stomping grounds where he was with Coastal for 6 years, 4 as the HC. Off a disappointing season, he looks to be getting Liberty back on track. 13-1 record turned into 8-4 and last year a 4-8 disaster. 2-1 with a loss to a tough James Madison team, I think he is finding his groove. Liberty offense the best unit on the field in this one. And in a pick game, I am going with talent even on a short week. I have them at -3.5 in this so we still have value even with them now at -2.5 points. I think Beard is a good hire and HC for Coastal. But this team, or more 'his' team will take some time to take shape. CC off a 22-14 loss at Delaware. I do like the Blue Hens QB, but overall, this Flames team is better. Let's lay the points here with the Flames. 4* Money Maker LIBERTY FLAMES

4* Total Money UNDER Colts/ Chiefs

Taking the COLTS. Had this one before last week Sunday + Monday Night games were even played. Well. I thought Indy would beat the Ravens at home, not get mauled. But KC winning on MNF was any easy one (got lucky with that under Never In Doubt!) - I love my 6.5s for dogs. Walker with a huge game for KC. Did everything a Super Bowl winning RB should do. Mahomes breaks out for a rushing TD. Who saw that one coming? But - as great as they looked, this line... has not budged from that 6.5. Colts looked bad. Daniel Jones another QB like Nix + Mahomes coming back from an injury. I think the short week is huge here for Indy. Walker had a huge game - and Mahomes knee. I don't know. Again, short week. I am most likely going to come in on the UNDER in this one. I think we see the running backs take center stage. Playoff game last year stayed under 23-20 in OT. I think that is more than we get tonight. 4* Money Maker INDIANAPOLIS COLTS

 4* Money Maker ARIZONA CARDINALS --- just a tad bit of movement on this game from when we released it. LY, Cards with Murray played these guys to a 23-20 game here in Arizona. In Seattle, Brissett was down 38-7 going into the 4th. I don't know if Lock is a 5 point downgrade. But, with rest, and some guys coming back on defense for Seattle, plus we add in some extra prep - I CAN"T SAY TAKE 4.5. I do put games out early. Sometimes if you get down early, you might get a good number. But it doesn't guarantee a win. At this price, I would not be interested in the homedog.

Taking DENVER. Had this one in even before the Monday night game began. Heck - this was in before the Sunday games even started last week. I had KC + the Under last week. So for me, this was a play to lock in on. Denver off a loss on MNF where the entire football world will get on them for being bad. How is the Bo Nix love today? Big revenge spot for Denver over the Jags who were the only team to beat them at home last year.  A pretty good thumping 34-20. Again. A disaster on MNF. People want Davis Mills. The sky is falling, help. Please. Broncos get right here at home 4* Money Maker DENVER BRONCOS

Taking the RAIDERS. Line is now under a TD! wow. I would say drastic overreaction. But is it? Raiders have a decent defense and decent veteran QB with a good OC calling the plays. Plus a good little RB that they love. I know we have a bit of skewed look with Vegas beating Miami and the Chargers losing outright to Arizona. But maybe it is time to ask if Herbert really as good as people make him out to be. He had good numbers vs the Raiders so we will see if that continues this afternoon. I think LAC misses their DC who is now in Balitmore.  Won't be shocked to see this one go over but haven't play it yet. And lets be honest here. If the Chargers win, it is a big double digit win and 6 points or 9 won't matter at all. But, if Vegas is sticking around inside of a score or 2, I won't be shocked if the Raiders win it outright. 4* Money Maker LAS VEGAS RAIDERS

Going UNDER the total. I'll try to keep this simple as not to offend NE fans. Drake Maye struggles vs good defenses. Just look at the numbers. Look at the last half dozen games. Now, are the Steelers a playoff team? Eh. Borderline. Do they bring their lunch pail and play tough football - absolutely. I would like to say first team to 20 wins, and they probably do, but will probably end up with 24 points. Patriots have some extra time off to work on things defensively. Again, like Packers Jets. 24-16 range. 4* Total Money UNDER Steelers/ Patriots

Taking TAMPA. 2 quick turnovers and you go from being up 3-0 to down 21-3. 4 turnovers in all and you still were a defensive stop away from getting the ball back down 6! Baker revenge game vs his old squad. Look. Anytime I get back a team at home after a poor game like the Bucs had last week, I would be looking to play them. I also played the OVER in this one. Line has moved 2.5 since the opener. If I am taking a favorite, I am not betting it to be a close game. Bucs should win this by 2 TDs or more. The talk will be of Tampa ATS failures dating back to last year. Those people also forget Tampa started 6-2 ATS last year. Nor will I mention injuries. Trends are great, but you have to be able to look at the full picture. Tampa into the ATS win column. 4* Money Maker TAMPA BAY BUCS

Taking the BEARS. I gotta say, taking a team that just scored 57, in my gut, it doesn't feel right. Like, they should be laying 10+ after that Carolina game. Vikings off a bit of  crazy game themselves with a big 4th quarter rally behind backup, but savvy veteran QB Carson Wentz. Line is now up to 4.5. Flores is a great DC for Minny. Doubt the Bears sniff 40 in this one, heck 30 might be a stretch. But, I think they can keep Carson Wentz and this offense under wraps. We can't just dismiss the fact the Chicago defense allowed 37 points either. I might actually come in on the under 48.5 on this one to be perfectly honest with you. For now though, I think the Bears win by about 10. 4* Money Maker CHICAGO BEARS

Taking the EAGLES. Not shocked at a line move out to a TD. Titans look to be the worse team in football at least after Week 1. I know the overreaction crew will be all over Philly. And that is why the line moved up. But honestly. Are you really going to try and be cute taking the Titans today? I can't believe all the pre-season hype on these guys. Did anyone watch them in August? If anything - the fact that Washington nearly came back and forces OT is reason enough to back the Iggles. No overalooking a team they 'should' beat. 4* Money Maker PHILADELPHIA EAGLES

Taking the TEXANS. Lost last week with Houston and the Under vs Buffalo. Where the heck did those offenses come from? Look. I got a playoff team, a good, defense first playoff team - at home team, in a back to back spot after getting ripped last week. There is no way I am not on Houston here. And Cincy. Look. I will grab my Cincy winner from last and be thankful. Because we saw how this season is going to play out. Get up 21-3 with the help of turnovers and then be in a position to lose late? Defense still has problems apparently. I have the better coach - and really, in a must win spot. Bils with Super Bowl prospects, and Cincy playoff bound hopes - you can't lose to these 2 teams out of the gate, especially at home. I am also on the UNDER in this one.  4* Money Maker HOUSTON TEXANS

4* Total Money OVER Browns/ Bucs

Going UNDER the total here. I have a bad number on this one. 44.5 currently. Look If you have just found me and my football picks. I am a get down early guy. I feel good enough about my numbers not to wait to see what happens. Sometimes we get a good number, sometimes not the best. I don't own the sites. I can't come in and delete and add things as the line moves. I bet these games at these lines. Anyway, that all being said. How is it 44.5 or 45 points? Green Bay's offense is not that great. The defense is decent. Not great, but good enough. I think the Jets have a really good defense though. Good enough to keep Love in check and Green Bay to below 23 points. And the Jets offense. Still trying to find itself. Are you really gung ho on them after they beat the Titans? I didn't think so. The fact that GB blew the game and lost how they lost leads me to believe we get a monster game this afternoon. 23-16 seems about right. 4* Total Money UNDER Packers/ Jets

Taking the FALCONS. We got a little movement on this one. Carolina now favored by 2.5 as Cooper Rush downgraded, maybe we get a Tua sigthing. Jack Strand perhaps? Pennix still questionable. You know what. I love it. This is where Stefanski shines! This is a guy who won games with Jeff Driskel, Joe Flacco, Dorian Thompson Robinson, Baily Zappe, Jacoby Brissett, Case Keenum, Nick Mullins, Baker Mayfield + Deshaun Watson. 2 time COY. Guy is a miracle worker. I'll have a -125, you will be getting a dog Outright on Sunday afternoon. And real fast on the Panthers. Yes. I had them last week. Bad game, we lost. The Falcons offense is not the Bears. But with their RB, Atlanta will have scoring opportunities. Home team wins. 4* Money Maker ATLANTA FALCONS 

4* Total Money UNDER Bengals/ Texans

4* Total Money OVER LSU/ Ole Miss

Taking LSU. I know people will be loving Ole Miss in this one. Now a 3 point home dog. LSU in an absolute blow out tonight. All the OC coaches are now in LSU. You don't think they know every nook and cranny of their old QB. You don't think their DCs will ramp it up to exploit his weakness? LSU will need a National Guard escort out of the stadium tonight. Chambliss is better than Sam Leavitt if you ask me. Not like Ole Miss doesn't have talent. The fact this line moved 3 points should tell you something. Could be a head fake move by the pros to get Ole Miss plus points at home. Well, it had to be a huge move since it is a full 3 and not a 2.5. For me, it just comes down to the LSU coaches knowing their former players. I also like the OVER in this one. 4* Money Maker LSU TIGERS -- You can still play this ML at -145 at MGM (Thursday) - It won't make a difference as LSU wins by double digits.

4* Total Money OVER West Virginia/ Virginia 

4* Total Money UNDER Ball State/ Liberty

4* Total Money OVER Kentucky/ Texas A&M

Taking USC. Trojans will have their way with this Rutgers defense. They have no answer. Maybe, maybe if this was a noon kickoff I would be a little concerned. Unless there is an absolute monsoon or blizzard or some unforseen act of God, USC will put up their usual mid 40 to 50 points. The defense will feast on a young QB or one coming back from an injury. Rutgers covers this by winning outright. That's it. A upset for the record books, or they lose by 30+. Would also grab a USC team total Over in this one. Maiava completing 80% of his passes. 10 TDs. Just nuts. And the backup. 12 of 14. Too much talent USC rolls. The Rutgers program is at another all time low. 4* Money Maker USC

Taking ALABAMA. Absolutely love this one today as do a lot of other people. Line has moved to 19.5. As long as this stays under 3 touchdowns, I am all in on Bama. Florida State. What a mess. 34-17 over New Mexico State. Oh, I get going through the motions - big conference game on deck vs SMU. Let's not show to much or get people hurt. But, come on. You were 5-7 last year. 2-10 the year before that. I think the fans and alumni are thinking, we are paying New Meixco State 1.4 Million Dollars to fly out here and for us to put 40 something points and get the fan base pumped up. And then, hey, I liked them getting 2.5/3 or whatever it was vs SMU. Thought it was a prime buy spot. And in that game, you get the turnovers. Everything in your favor. INT in red zone. Muffed punt that turns into a TD and still couldn't pull it out. Now. You go on the road to face the Tide. Yeah. Like this doesn't have beat down written all over it. I had Alabama last year at Florida State. Seminoles outright by 14. If you think for one second they are looking past this game or team or not thinking, hey, let's just win and move on. Heck no. I thought Kentucky +10 was a good look last week. (I didn't play it) The line just seemed low for big bad Bama vs what is considered 'Kentucky' football. This isn't basketball. But after trailing 17-13 at the half. All Bama 6 scoring drives in the 2nd half. Comepletely shut out Kentucky. 45-17 no doubt win. Does Florida State score 17 here? I don't think so. Tide 44-17. 4* Money Maker ALABAMA

Taking TOLEDO. Temple stayed with Penn State last week. That's great. But you are getting 24 points. You are getting 4 or 5. Toledo opened at Michigan State and depending on your number, maybe a win or a push. The Temple OL is banged up so that bears some watching. But the early line move creeping up says they will still be thin at the position. I think the Rockets QB has a good game here. The kid has 448 yaers 5 TDs and 1 INT in his first 2 games. He played vs Michigan State, on the road, which is a tougher spot than this afternoons game. 4* Money Maker TOLEDO ROCKETS

Taking NORTH CAROLINA. We see continued movement down from the opening number of 5.5. 3.5 as I do this write up. Doesn't shock me the money is on NC here and the line coming down. The average person is not betting on NC on Sunday and Monday night. That is the sharper action. That is another reason I like to get my plays in early. I am not going to overreact on Saturday or Sunday mornings when lines start moving. Clemson is a shell of what it once was. As long as you get a FG here you are in good shape. NC has a solid game in Ireland. Defense looks to be solid. Last week they beat East Tennessee 35-3. I don't think they were looking things up especially with this road game looming. The Tigers, well what can you say. We had LSU in a monster win opening night. Clemson clearly below the heavy hitters talent wise. I was mad at myself for missing +21.5 on Georiga Southern last week and the line came down to 19.5. Didn't matter. 22-7! 5 FGs. FIVE. Hey, you have a weapon when a kid is drilling 49,50 yarders in college. But you are going to need a TD eventually. Granted. You lose your starting QB and a true freshamn comes in. I think this game is won at the line of scrimmage, and the North Carolina D has looked the part - Clemson offense, not so much. Grab the points.  4* Money Maker NORTH CAROLINA

Taking HOUSTON tonight. Line has come down and I am seeing 7.5s now. I am still interested in the Cougars. Love the coach. Guy gets it done. And you know from watching my youtube shows that a couple of the kids he played with are on this Houston team, so I will always be pulling for them. They beat Oregon State to start the year and did what was expect last week rolling Southern 77-6. That is what a 'ranked' team should do. Win big, but stay focused on the big picture. They played a lot of backups in that rout. Now they hit the road to hit Tech. Tech, a big favorite at Oregon State, in an absolute dog fight before finally taking the lead with 6 minutes to go in the 4th and adding one one late to make it look like a semi-comfortable win, which it wasn't. Now back home for a this battle. No wonder the line came down. They beat Abilene 33-10. But 4 FGs in that one from 22-28-33 and 45 yards. The will come back to bite you and not just to cover a big spread, but winning games vs good teams.  I don't think Tech is a Top 15 team. Anything over a touchdown and I am still interested in Houston tonight. 4* Money Maker HOUSTON COUGARS

Taking MIAMI. Sometimes I end up with a good number on the opens, in this case, I have a bad number. Can't win them all. But I will win this Friday night game. I think the line moved down based on the Canes missing some secondary pieces. Both starting corners are out. Should that worry me against Wake Forest? The same Wake Forest who just played a wild 38-36 OT game at Purdue. Purdue, who I have pegged for 3 wins. Am I worried we can't score tonight. Absolutely not. The fact that there are questions about the Miami defense lends me to believe the offense will be extra potent tonight. These two played in 2025, 42-14 Miami. Then we have to go way back to 2013 (24-21 Canes) 2009 (28-27 Canes at Wake) 2008 (16-10 Canes). I heard someone say, Wake has played Miami tough in the past. Tough in the past? Jacory Harris? Stephen Morris?  Come on. This Miami O is electric. I can't see the Hurricanes not winning by 24-30 points tonight. All Miami has to do is look over at Oregon on Saturday. Same kind of point spread, on the road. In trouble from the start. Motivation is there. Undefeated season. Heisman. ACC Champs. 45-20 sounds about right. 4* Money Maker MIAMI HURRICANES

Taking the BILLS. Well. I had Texans and Saints in Week 1. Thought Saints would hang close, thought Houston would win. Was not expecting a flurry of offense from the Bills. But honestly, generally excited me more about this pick. I was already going to be on this one early. A lot of hype with the new stadium opening. I would normally think that could be a distraction, and honestly, coming in off a loss, they would probably have been really lasered in tonight. But still a short week for both teams. Bills offense and their win vs a defense like that. I have taken a bit more notice of this club. I think they are going to run right over the Lions tonight. Detroit with the short travel vs a pretty good team. And how about that game Sunday. Saints going for the win in OT. I like it. That is what you should do. But that game was 7-0 at haltime. It gets to 60! This Lions defense is completely overrated. If the Saints can do that in Detroit. Wow. Look. I know there is a lot of over-reaction takes after Week 1. Like, is the Detroit defense that bad? Is the Bills offense that good? Do we really want to play that game. I saw the Bills destroy a playoff team on the road - a team that has given them a hard time in the past. Allen had lost his last 2 years to Houston and his rookie year. Last year, sacked 8 times in a 23-19 loss. The year before 9-30 in Houston. 334 yards on Sunday. They barely even ran the ball. And down one with a minute 30 left on the clock - let's throw it 35 yards to the endzone! Brady has this offense motivated and humming already. That win should put the Ravens (equally impressive big win) plus KC + Denver on notice. That was a statement win if you can ever have one in Week 1. The Lions statement? Uh we blew it when we went 15-2 and had Washington maul us at home in what should have been our Super Bowl Year. Remember their 41-34 loss to the Rams last December. I see something a repeat performance, although I don't think they have a 10 point lead at any point in this game. 4* Money Maker BUFFALO BILLS

Taking PITT here on Thursday night. Now. I had Syracuse and UCF on Saturday. UCF + Pitt in some weather. Syraucse at home, terrible. Up 12-7, 18-14 and lose on an Pick 6. And 3 INTs to the same guy! Can't get in from the 8 yard line. INT on the Cal 18. A missed FG, a missed 2pt conversion. Another missed FG that would have tied it at 21. And the final INT to end the game. Normally I would think, off a terrible game and mistake prone football, you shore things up and rebound. But a short week on the road? Even the double digits don't grab me. Pitt + UCF had a weather delay and played a real ugly on Saturday. Yes UFC scored 73 the previous week, so 7 points looks awesome. But Pitt also scored 59 and had just 12. Let's say the weather helped out both defenses. Pitt has won the last 2 (30-13 at SU and 41-13 home) and 7 of the last 8, 9 of hte last 10 in the series. 6-2 ATS run for the Panthers also. Syracuse ended last year with 8 straight ACC losses. The ugly start at home is not a good sign as they hit the road where they were 1-5 last year. When Pitt loses at home, it is to ranked teams. Miami's, Louisville's Clemson's of the ACC. They take care of business vs other oppoonents. 4* Money Maker PITT PANTHERS

4* Total Money UNDER Broncos/ Chiefs

4* Money Maker KANSAS CITY CHIEFS -- -For me, this is just me fading the Broncos. And why you may ask. Perhaps no Mahomes. At least not a 100% Mahomes if he is suiting up here. I am not a KC lover. I thought Andy Reid should retire after last year. Mahomes hurt. Kelce old. The Super Bowl appears over in my eyes. Broncos have really controlled this series the last couple years if we are being honest. Yet. When the dust settles down on Monday night, I feel that the Chiefs will probably be a -3.5 or even 4pt favorite. This, in my view, is really a statement game for the Chiefs to prove themselves. That they are back. Not that Denver is the new top dog in the AFC West. It is that Andy Reid + Company have not in fact missed a beat, and will take care of business with a Monday night audience watching. (also on UNDER 43.5 in this one) 

Alright. Taking Minny in this one.. Tough. I am no fan of Murray. Plus his old coach is across the field as if his weaknesses aren't already known. I actually liked GB earlier this summer. But I can't do it. I think the Vikings coach staff is really top notch. Clear edge in this game when it will matter most. We aren't laying points. We don't need to cover a number. I have a Hockenson TD prop in this one at +350. As I said. Flores DC. O'Connell HC. We saw him get everything out of Darnold for a season. I am looking for a game. GB with too many question marks for me to think they win here on the road. 4* Money Maker MINNESOTA VIKINGS

4* Money Maker WASHINGTON COMMANDERS

4* Money Maker INDIANAPOLIS COLTS

4* Money Maker NEW ORLEANS SAINTS -- If you wait long enough, I think a +7.5 will pop up. I think the Lions will get some love for the season based on their schedule. Saints showed a lot of life and growth last year. I have these winning the NFC South this year. I think they take another step forward this season. Winning + covering are 2 different things. We will get the cover.

4* Money Maker CAROLINA PANTHERS -- man oh man, I can hear the Bears hype already and its barely June! I know the Panthers squeaked into the playoffs with a losing record. But I see the upside in this one. And honestly, the Bears band-wagon will be full throttle by the time the season kicks off. I am probably getting a bad number at +2.5. I am sure a +3 will rear its head eventually. Won't matter. I think Carolina wins outright.

4* Total Money UNDER Bills/ Texans

4* Total Money UNDER Tampa/ Bengals 

4* Money Maker HOUSTON TEXANS -- Always such a to-do about this QB in Buffalo. I think the coach is way past his warranty. Texans had a lot of injuries last year. But this is a solid team all around. If the Bills do pull it out, I am calling 24-23. But I think that Houston wins this one outright.

4* Money Maker CICINNATI BENGALS  -- tough one for sure. I can't stand this Cincy coach. Guy is absolutely terrible. But I am big believer in this offense. Bucs I think take a step back this year. I like Saints and Falcons to be the teams beat in the South. Cincy to me is really in a poop or get off the pot season. Coach needs to finally start a season strong with some wins.

Taking NEW MEXICO STATE. I didn't like Hawaii in Week 1. Didn't know how the UNLV line went from -1 to -3. They lose that one. QB doesn't look in the offense. 52% Completion percentage? Looked horrible vs UNLV 17 of 41! And we are to think they cover 10 vs New Mexico State? We saw Florida State stick around vs SMU with some turnover help. Maybe New Mexico State isn't that good, but Hawaii isn't in Florida State territory either. I wouldn't be shocked if they stole an outright win here. I had New Mexico State vs Mercyhurst last week laying 28.5. QB made some nice throws. The backup QB made some nice throws. Hawaii isn't Florida State, and they aren't Mercyhurst. But the Aggies offense is better than the Rainbows right now.  4* Money Maker NEW MEXICO STATE

Taking TEXAS here. Alright. The ol' revenge spot. Playoff loss with Will Howard + Quin Ewers. What a clunker last year, 14-7 Ohio State wins again. I think this game has significantly more points scored. And the Longhorns score more. Arch Manning is ready for his close up. The kid had a pretty solid season last year. All the hype. Well, here it is. Time for Texas to win a big game and set the stage for a big season. In today's CFB, a loss doesn't knock either team out of title contention, but, you don't want to lose in Week 2. Forget about last weeks cupcakes. Time for the big boys to come out to play. I think Sark pulls some tricks out of his hat and the Longhorns get it done. 4* Money Maker TEXAS LONGHORNS