Wildcats (+) over Cyclones - A pair of college basketball’s better coaches will face each other for the first time as No. 24 Arizona led by Tommy Lloyd and T.J. Otzelberger of No. 3 Iowa State as the Big-12’s second and third ranked in the conference. The Cyclones fell at West Virginia a week ago Saturday but have won 9-of-10 including beating ASU in Tempe and the Wildcats mirror that pattern losing at Texas Tech that Saturday and winning 9-of-10 overall. This is a huge game for the Cats as they have dropped in the ranking 20 spots and the next step is out! Take ARIZONA!

USC at UCLA 10:00 ET

Trojans (+) over Bruins - The Bruins were very goo to ‘us’ early and ‘we’ even played against them during their 4-game slide but I like their tough nose in your face style of basketball. Ranked No. 22 UCLA is a meager favorite on the road as well as 6-of-10 meetings. The Bruins snapped a 4-game losing streak and are a current 3-game heater including a win over Wisconsin. USC first year coach Eric Musselman has found the combination he have been looking for. Take USC!

Atlanta at Minnesota 8:00 ET

Hawks (+) over Timberwolves - It appears the Hawks have a wounded wing as they have lose for straight and never came close to covering the number. It looks like Minnesota has gained some foot hold with a pair of wins over Dallas and Denver but they have a history of struggling against Atlanta no matter where the game is being played. The Hawks are 7-3 SU in the past 10 meetings and 9-1 ATS with their lone ‘cover happening almost two years ago. Take ATLANTA!

LA Lakers at Charlotte  7:00 ET

Hornets (+) over Lakers - The Charlotte Hornets have had that kind of year, the kind that no team or coach ever wanted to happen. It has been a nightmare of injuries to a club that has so much potential as this young guard heavy club was physically taken out of the game. But, now the injured are returning to action and it shows on the court as the Hornets have won 4 of their last six. Take CHARLOTTE!  

Washington at Philadelphia 3:00 ET

Eagles (-) over Commanders - To start with I hate myself for passing on Washington in both of their playoff wins. I can sort of forgive myself for Detroit loss but not Tampa Bay. Now, they have finally met their Waterloo as the Eagles will soar behind their run game. Behind Saquon Barkley The birds will control the clock as they try and keep Hurts from having to make plays with his ailing knee. Hurts is 11-2 in home starts with both losses to the former Redskins. I think the kid is great and I believe he will be back and more than once but not today. ML tells me playoff teams in their fourth straight road game are 0-9 SU and 1-7-1 ATS. Take PHILADELPHIA!

Connectciut at Xavier 8:00 ET

Huskies (+) over Musketeers - It has been a rough season for the two-time defending National Champions as injuries and inconsistent play from the front court has them scrambling for wins. They had to go into overtime to beat a mediocre Butler team as Coach Bobby Hurley keeps berating the officials to the point of getting bounce everytime out. UConn looks to return to form against this midland club. Take CONNECTICUT!

Toronto at Atlanta 7:00 ET

Raptors (+) over Hawks - What I see Toronto’s record in the standings I smile a bit as most publications don’t print the ATS records and the Raptors are one of the better money makers at 25-18-1 ATS on the season. Atlanta has dropped three in a row, the last of which was to these same Raptors, and my first thought is that they are going to beat them again. They have won their last two and four of five outright. Take TORONTO!

Houston at Cleveland 7:30 ET

Rockets (+) over Cavaliers - Okay, Cleveland has lost their last two games, the first to the Rockets in Houston and then shockingly two days later were beaten outright by Philadelphia who had dropped seven straight. I believe that most would think that the Cavaliers are seeking revenge against Houston and will step up here, but. The Rockets want to prove Thursday’s win was not a fluke. Take HOUSTON!

Baylor at Utah 4:30 ET

Utes (+) over Bears - Utah had won three in-a-row before meeting power house Houston and were overwhelmed by the Cougars 70-36 in one of the worst beating in Utah’s basketball history. On the other side of the coin, Baylor ended a three-game slide with a win over Kansas State, but they are still 0-4 ATS in their last four games overall. The Bears are just 1-4 in true road games, and the Utes are 10-2 SY at home. Take UTAH!  

Denver at Minnesota 3:00 ET

Timberwolves (+) over Nuggets - The Nuggets are gathering no moss as they run over NBA opponents and have won four straight and eight of their past nine. Nikola Jokic has five straight triple-doubles and ties a feat only accomplished by Wilt Chamberlain, attaining 35 points, 22 rebounds, and 17 assists. He had two more assists and rebounds than the ‘Big Dipper.’ But, tonight, will be the guard play of the home Wolves that will make the difference. Take MINNESOTA!

Kentucky at Vanderbilt 2:30 ET

Commodores (+) over Wildcats - In a unique situation, both of these clubs are coming off losses to Alabama. Kentucky battled the No. 3 team in the nation to a stand still but fell 102-97 while Vanderbilt lost on Tuesday in Tuscaloosa 103-87. The Wildcats have dominated this series having won the last two and eight of the past 10 meetings. The Vandy guards can give the Wildcats fits with their quickness. Take VANDERBILT!  

Texas A&M at Texas 2:30 ET

Aggies (+) over Longhorns - This is the second meeting of the season between these ‘new’ SEC teams that opened conference play against each other, and for Texas, it wasn’t pretty. The Aggies defeated the Longhorns 80-60 and are currently ranked No. 13. The Longhorns have been known as a defense-first team, but under Coach Rodney Terry, they have faltered a bit. Now, it is Texas A&M that plays the tougher defense. Take TEXAS A&M.

Michigan State at Rutgers 1:30 ET

Scarlet Knights (+) over Spartans - It seems like one way or another I end up with a side in games played by either of these two teams. Rutgers has been a huge disappointment to its backers who have suffered with them ‘covering’ just seven of 19 games while the Spartans have gotten the money going 12-6 ATS. Michigan State is unbeaten in SEC play winning all seven contests including an 80-78 win over Illinois on Sunday. The Scarlet Knights are playing better and are poised to hand State their first conference loss. Take RUTGERS!  

Penn State at Iowa 9:00 ET

Nittany Lions (+) over Hawkeyes- Both of these clubs are currently in a bit of a slide as Iowa has lost its last three games, and Penn State just ended a four-game losing streak with a win at home over Rutgers on Monday. The Nittany Lions ranked No. 17 in offense, scoring 84.2 points per game. Hawkeyes coach Fran McCaffery believes his squad needs to be more conservative on offense and protect the ball better. Take PENN STATE!

Michigan at Purdue 8:00 ET

Wolverines (+) over Boilermakers- No. 11 Purdue were handed their first home loss of the season as the fell to Ohio State 73-70 and their record as host dropped to 10-1. That loss ended a seven game win streak for the Boilermakers while Michigan rebounded from a loss at one of the Big Ten bottom feeders Minnesota to defeat Northwestern 80-76. The Wolverines have a pair of 7-footers that control the boards were Purdue who had the ‘Big man’  (Zach Edey) last season is now built around their three guards who lead the Big Ten in 3-point shooting percentage, assists, and scoring." The Wolves are fifth in the nation in field goal percentage and get it done here. Take MICHIGAN!

Cleveland and Philadelphia 7:00 ET

76ers (+) over Cavaliers - The last I saw of the 76ers the were getting routed in Denver and, according to Stan Van Gundy played without any effort, allowing 144 points while losing their seventh straight game. Cleveland also played on Wednesday, losing a heartbreaker 109-108 at Houston. The Cavaliers have defeated Philly in the past three meetings including a 126-99 victory this season in December. No surprise Embiid is not playing tonight but the surprise comes with the final score. The 76ers show improved effort tonight against one of the NBA’s best squads. Take PHILADELPHIA!

Villanova at Marquette 7:00 ET

Golden Eagles (-) over Wildcats- This looks to me to be a mismatch as Marquette hosts the once powerful Villanova Wildcats who have not come close to the level of play that they performed at while Jay Wright was heading the program. The Golden Eagles have won seven straight in the series between the two including a 3-game sweep last season. The Wildcats blew an eight-point lead in the final minutes, getting outscored 9-0 to finish the game. The Golden Eagles are 10-1 SU at home and received their lone home defeat to Xavier 59-57 last Saturday, while ‘Nova is just 1-4 in true road games. Take MARQUETTE!

Miami at Milwaukee 8:00 ET

Heat (+) over Bucks - These two played a game during Thanksgiving week in Miami when the Heat were favored by 5.5 points, and Milwaukee won the game 106-103. What I am trying to convey is that amidst the issues surrounding the Heat with Jimmy Butler and recurring injuries to Tyler Hero. So, in this meeting, the Bucks have been made a 7-point favorite, and I believe the price is a bit inflated. The Bucks had difficulties with their travel plans as the weather in New Orleans has them askew. Take MIAMI!

Toronto at Atlanta 7:00 ET

Raptors (+) over Hawks - On the heels of a five-game losing streak, Toronto has won 3-of 4 while Atlanta has dropped their last two games after a mini win streak of three. The Hawks are having trouble getting off the ground as they are going 3-7 ATS in their last 10. This is the second meeting of the season with Atlanta taking down the Ratpors in Toronto 136-107. This is the first of back-to-back games in Atlanta. Raptors get a jump on low-flying Hawks! Take TORONTO!

San Antonio vs Indiana 2:00 ET

Spurs (+) over Pacers - Victory Wembanyama is an international figure, and he returns to his native France, Paris to be exact, as the NBA expands globally during the regular season. Mature well beyond his 21 years, 'The Alien,' as he is referred to, will be hounded by media seeking his return home, and he shall graciously handle it and then go put on a show for all of Europe. Indiana 8-1 since the New Year but will be done in here. Take SAN ANTONIO!

Texas A&M at Mississippi 9:00 ET

Aggies (+) over Rebels - Texas A&M secured a much-needed victory against LSU on Saturday after being outmatched by ranked teams like Alabama and Kentucky. Mississippi had won four in a row and 8-of 9 before losing to rival Mississippi State on Saturday. The Aggies have won the past two meetings and five of the last six encounters between the two. They were also aided by the return of All-SEC guard Wade Taylor who missed three games, two of which resulted in losses. Aggies surprise Rebels here. Take TEXAS A&M!

Cleveland at Houston 8:00 ET

Rockets (+) over Cavaliers - This is the first meeting of the season between these two upstarts who are making a serious push for their division titles. Cleveland is running away with the Eastern Conference, not to mention the Central Division, with a seven-game lead over Boston in the loss column. Houston is seven games behind Oklahoma City for the top seed in the Western Conference, but they are leading the Southwest Division by one game in the loss column over Memphis. After playing 5-of 6 games on the road, the Rockets returned home Monday and were beaten by Detroit 107-96 a game that they were not ready to play... they will be ready tonight. Take HOUSTON!

Minnesota at Dallas 7:30 ET

Mavericks (-+) over Timberwolves - These two have split a pair of meetings, winning on each other's floor back on Christmas Day and three days later. Minnesota enters this fray having dropped its last two games and 4-of 6. After defeating Oklahoma City, the Mavericks lost at Charlotte Monday and have dropped 4-of 5 and are 2-8 ATS in their last 10 games overall. The Timberwolves have yet to adjust to playing without Karl-Anthony Towns and with a pair of additional guards to go with Anthony Edwards. However, when you base your team on three-point shooters, the final result will be inconsistent. Take DALLAS!

Kansas at TCU 7:00 ET

Horned Frogs (+) over Jayhawks - Kansas has dominated the Big 12 for two decades, and TCU has been one of their whipping boys. The Jayhawks have won 26 fo30 meetings all-time, and surprisingly, Texas Christian has won four of the past five meetings, meaning the Jayhawks were at one time 25-0 against the Horned Frogs. TCU is coming off an upset win over Baylor on Saturday by dominating the boards, having a 41-25 advantage over the Bears. Jayhawks will be without forward KJ Adams and that weakens their interior game. Take TCU!

Indiana at Northwestern 7:00 ET

Wildcats (-) over Hoosiers - What is going on with the Indiana Hoosiers? After postinging five straight wins, they have lost back-to-back games by 25 points to Illinois and Ohio State and the same time, Northwestern has dropped four of five. The Wildcats are actually 8-2 ATS in their last 10 and have won the past four meetings against the Hoosiers, sweeping the two-game set the last two seasons. NW has yet to win on the road (0-5) but is 9-1 at home. Indiana just upset Ohio State in overtime, while each of the Wildcats' last two games also went into OT. Take NORTHWESTERN!

Arizona State at West Virginia 9:00 ET

Sun Devils (+) over Mountaineers- The question here is which West Virginia team is going to show up in Morgantown Tuesday night. The Mountaineers are off of defeating Top-5 ranked Iowa State after losing to Houston by 24 points and losing to Arizona by 21 points. Arizona State made the adjustment during the fall entering the Big-12 conference and winning title but have found the hardwood a little bit more difficult to overcome as they are 1-5 in Big-12 action. This is the first ever meeting between the schools playing basketball and the Mountaineers just might be patting themselves on the back after their upset win over the Cyclones. Take ARIZONA STATE!

Orlando at Toronto 7:30 ET

Raptors (+) over Magic- Orlando when healthy can beat anybody anywhere at anytime but they are not have not had all their assets working at the same time. The Magic have lost their last three and 5-of-6 with Franz Wagner sidelined. The Raptors are off of a beating Friday at Milwaukee and have dropped the last four meetings with the Magic but had won their previous two. Take TORONTO!

Texas Tech at Cincinnati 7:00 ET

Bearcats (+) over Red Raiders- Cincinnati opened the season with six straight wins and fell at Villanova and then won their next four games before Big-12 conference action started. When Big-12 started conference play the Bearcats lost their first four games three of which were losses to ranked teams Arizona, Kansas and Baylor before they rebounded with wins their last two times out defeating Colorado and Arizona State. Texas Tech known for their stellar defense have won four of five with the loss coming at the hands of Iowa State 85-84.  But, it is the Bearcats that are playing better defense as they are ranked No. 7 with fewest points allowed at 60.6 PPG. This is the Red Raiders first ever trip to Cincinnati and they will find the crowd up close and in their face. Take CINCINNATI!

Boston College at Virginia 7:00 ET

Cavaliers (-) over Eagles- This price with Virginia favored seems a bit off the norm as they have lost their last five games and have been favorites just six times this season and has covered the number just twice. Boston College at 9-9 SU has been a point spread nightmare for their backers covering just six of 18 games. The Eagles are 0-3 on the road and have lost their last four games and are just 1-7 ATS in their last eight games overall. The Cavaliers won both meetings last year and have won 6-of-7 meetings and 8-of-10 and are 21-9 all-time over BC. Take VIRGINIA!

Chicago at LA Clippers 10:30 ET

Bulls (+) over Clippers- This is the first meeting of the season between these two and Los Angeles swept the two-game set in each of the past two years and Chicago got the sweep the season before that. The Clippers have won and covered four straight after dropping 4-of-5 while the Bulls have lost their last five games as coach Billy Donovan says after their loss at Portland yesterday that it is ‘time to reflect’...Take CHICAGO!

Mercedes-Benz Stadium Atlanta

Notre Dame vs Ohio State 7:30 ET

Fighting Irish (+) over Buckeyes- In late November the weekend that Notre Dame pounded the Army 49-14 and Ohio State lost 13-10 to Michigan I mentioned on the College Preview podcasts at Gamblersworld.net that the only way that OSU coach Sean Day can save his job after four straight losses to Michigan was to win the National Championship. I also stated that I thought the Fighting Irish were good enough to win it all. The Buckeyes’ claim had people that could still see them winning but I was scoffed at about the Notre Dame statement. These were not predictions just my personal feelings from my observations. So. now what, both of these clubs beat me last week (first time EVER losing a semi-final game) and now I’m supposed to have a feel for the winner, and I believe that I do! It’s all or nothing and neither of these clubs will be concerned with the number’ as the only thing that matters is winning the game there are no moral victories. You must win the game! Take NOTRE DAME!

Rutgers at Penn State 6:30 ET

Nittany Lions (-) over Scarlet Knights- These two met in early December in New Jersey with the Scarlet Knights prevailing 80-76 as a 3.5-point favorite. Rutgers at 3-4 in the Big Ten had expected more while Penn State has won just two of their seven conference games and has lost four in-a-row entering this fray. The last three losses for the Nittany Lions came against ranked teams Oregon, Illinois and Michigan State while covering the last two. Lions installed as a very strong favorite here and it seems that they are not worthy...but they are 9-2 at home while Rutgers is 1-3 on the road. Take RUTGERS!

LA Lakers at LA Clippers 9:00 ET

Lakers (+) over Clippers- These two Los Angeles teams are meeting for the first of four season encounters for the first time in the Clippers new home about a mile from the Forum which they shared with the Lakers for 32 years. The Clippers have won their last three games entering this battle including a 59 point win over Brooklyn while the Lakers managed to beat the Nets by one-point. Anthony Davis is back and the Lakers took 3-of-4 last season. Take LA LAKERS!

Baltimore at Buffalo 6:30 ET

Bills (+) over Ravens- Without a doubt one of the toughest calls in my playoff handicapping history and I am serious about that with all the components that comprise this match-up. The MVP award is one based on regular season play and both Josh Allen and Lamar Jackson are the leading contenders. Nothing to do with anything but because Lamar has already won it twice that the sentiment is going to Allen...and here is where he earns it. At home the Bills freeze out Ravens. Take BUFFALO!

LA Rams at Philadelphia 3:00 ET

Eagles (-) over Rams- There are so many factors and trends that are favorable for Philadelphia it is difficult to see anything else. Everything from the site, the number, the history, the weather, the fires and more. Although Los Angeles was very impressive against Minnesota especially on defense and on the other side of the ball I am sure QB Matthew Stafford is capable. The Eagles have won the past two meetings and seven of the last eight  including their 37-20 domination while running for 314 yards with Barley picking up 255 last November 24. Too much for me, but I feel like it is OVERKILL! Take LOS ANGELES RAMS!

Illinois at Michigan State 12:00 ET

Illini (+) over Spartans- Even though Michigan State has won the last meetings Illinois had won the previous four meetings. The Spartans are on a 10-game winning streak while the Illini have been setting impressive NCAA scoring records by defeated a Top-25 ranked team by 32 points (Oregon) and the set a record last time out by scoring the most points by a visiting team at Indiana’s Assembly Hall. This one should come down to the final buzzer. Take ILLINOIS!

Cleveland at Minnesota 9:00 ET

Timberwolves (+) over Cavaliers- Can it happen? Can Cleveland be beaten twice in a row? Well they have lost 2-of-3 and are up against Minnesota who has defeated the Cavaliers four of the past five meetings although this is their first encounter of the season. The Timberwolves have come to life winning five of their last seven with their losses which were by 1-point against Golden State and 2-points against Memphis. Take MINNESOTA!

Washington at Detroit 8:00 ET

Lions (-) over Daniels- We have all witnessed it, the Lions having a dominating season (15-2) and capturing the NFL’s No. 1 seed for the first time in franchise history. Washington has won 13 games under rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels who has set QB rookie records in numerous categories. The Lions are 0-3 against the former Redskins in the playoffs with their last meeting in the NFC title game in 1991. Not this time...take DETROIT!

Houston at Kansas City 1:30 ET

Chiefs (-) over Texans- i just heard a stat on VSIN radio that in the NFL playoffs that favorites of 7-points or more have won 18 straight times. Well, with 23 days rest will Kansas City be able to just turn it on after the winningest non-impressive 11 one score wins. Four interception last week will not happen with a Mahomes on the warpath. Take KANSAS CITY!

South Carolina at Oklahoma  4:00 ET

Gamecocks (+) over Sooners- South Carolina has dropped four straight games entering this fray and this followed and eight game win streak that ended when SEC play began and they are 0-4 in conference play. Oklahoma won their first 13 games and were undefeated until conference play started (a pattern by live by year after year) and have lost all four of their SEC encounters. The Gamecocks have enough talent to surprise the Sooners here and win outright. Take the points with SOUTH CAROLINA!

Tennessee  at Vanderbilt

Commodores (+) over Volunteers- These two rivals go at it in Nashville where host Vanderbilt is 9-1 on the season. Tennessee has had their way in this series winning 9-of-10 meetings with the lone Vandy win coming at home the year before last. The Volunteers was taken apart by Florida on the road 73-43 back on January 7 and have bounced by with a road win over Texas, but not here. Take VANDERBILT!

Wisconsin at USC 3:00 ET

Trojans (+) over Badgers- Wisconsin enters this Big Ten affair on a six game winning streak after having lost their previous three games. The Badgers have gone from a defense first squad to a team that will out shoot and out gun you with a pair of 7-footers grabbing the ball off the boards. USC has posted a pair of wins and six of their last eight including a win at Illinois. Trojans playing with confidence at home get it done. Take USC!

Iowa at UCLA 9:00 ET

Bruins (-) over Hawkeyes- So east meets west in this contests between a pair of squads that are both on down trends since Big Ten conference play began. UCLA has dropped four straight games three of which were on the road and in their lone home game during that span was a beating by Michigan which made the Bruins 8-1 at Pauley Pavilion. Iowa is second in the nation in scoring and will be up against a club that plays defense first. UUCLA at home against a first time visitor to Pauley. Take UCLA!

Utah at New Orleans 8:00 ET

Pelicans (-) over Jazz- In the you’ve got to kidding category, New Orleans who has won only 10 games of 42 played and have the worst record in the NBA and yet they are a double-digit favorite at home where they are 4-16 straight-up. Utah, I must admit is just 3-15 on the road but does that justify a double-digit price against the Pelicans. This is the first meeting of the season between the two and I am forced to give the favorite here. Take NEW ORLEANS!

Denver at Miami 8:00 ET

Heat over Nuggets- It is difficult for me to grasp just why Miami is favored here as they are playing without their superstar Jimmy (Playoffs) Butler who has appeared in his final game in South Beach. Straight-up Denver has won six straight meetings and 9-of-10 straight up and 8-2 ATS. So, why are the Heat favored here? It just doesn’t look right and bookies don’t make this kind of mistakes. Take MIAMI!

Minnesota at New York 7:30 ET

Timberwolves (+) over Knicks- Intriguing matchup between a pair of clubs that made a blockbuster trade before the season began and neither of them have shown their previous form. Minnesota send Karl-Anthony Towns to New York and the big guy has delivered for the most part, but parting with a pair of shooting guards has left a bit of a void for the Knicks. The Timberwolves who were blown out at home by New York in late December are looking to even the season series against a struggling Knicks squad that has lost five of seven with their wins over lowly Toronto and Philadelphia. Take MINNESOTA!

LA Clippers at Portland 10:00 ET

Blazers (+) over Clippers- These two have already met twice this season splitting a pair in Los Angeles with the Clippers being 8-point favorites each time. Now, the venue has changed to Portland and the line is close to where it was in LA. Too much of an overlay for a team that is 8-11 SU on the road against a team that is 8-10 at home. Take PORTLAND!

Houston at Sacramento 10:00 ET

Kings (-) over Rockets- Sacramento tasted defeat for the first time in eight games under new coach Doug Christie and are now 7-2 under his leadership. The loss was at Milwaukee but the Kings have won four straight at home under their new regime after winning only six of 16 home games under dismissed coach Mike Brown. Houston enters town on a five game winning streak (Megabucks winner last night) while the Kings were crushed by the Bucks last time out. Reversal of fortune tonight. Take SACRAMENTO

Rutgers at Nebraska 9:00 ET

Scarlet Knights (+) over Cornhuskers- This Nebraska team owes me (You too)! A little over a week ago I posted the Cornhuskers at Iowa and was beaten in overtime as a dog of 4.5-points. What got to me was every update I had the ‘Huskers were leading by anywhere from 10-15 points before the half and lead deep into the second hale before getting tied at the buzzer by the Hawkeyes...it happens to us all at sometimes but that one hurt. Rutgers on the other hand made up for early losses by defeating UCLA as a Megabucks winner and now on the Nebraska and the are 1-6 SU on the road. Still, take RUTGERS!

Cleveland at Oklahoma City 8:00 ET

Cavaliers (+) over Thunder- The Cavaliers ended a three-game losing streak to Oklahoma City eight days ago in Cleveland. Of course most are expecting the Thunder at home to avenge the loss at home. Trouble river city as the Thunder lost their center last need for at least a week as Isaiah Hartenstein is out and they are already without Chat Holmgren and this will cost them here. The Cavs are No. 1 on offense scoring 121.9 PPG while OKC is No. 1 on defense allowing just 102.9...three pointers rule. Take CLEVELAND

Memphis at Temple 7:00 ET

Tigers (-) over Owls- I am surprised that I seen as much interest in Temple here as I have because the Tigers are a bigger and better basketball product. Both clubs enter with four games streaking with Memphis having won their last four SU and the Owls going 4-0 ATS having lost the game by one-point at E. Carolina as a 3-point underdog. The Tigers have won the past six meetings going 3-2-1 ATS but the Owls do have enough offensive firepower to give the Tigers a run for the money but tigers eat owls...take MEMPHIS!

Texas at Oklahoma 10:00 ET

Longhorns (+) over Oklahoma- These two are long time rivals going back to the old Southwest Conference and even Big-12 action and now meet as member s of the SEC (go figure). Both Texas and Oklahoma are still seeking their first SEC victory and in head-to-head match-ups Texas has won seven straight meetings. The Sooners opened with 13 straight non-conference wins and will be on a four-game slide after this one goes final. Take TEXAS

Purdue at Washington 9:30 ET

Huskies (+) over Boilermakers- After dropping 3-of-4 the final of which as a beat down by Auburn Purdue has rebounded with five straight wins. Washington has lost their last three after their upset win over Maryland all against ranked opponents. The Huskies have been pounded in their last two outing and Purdue has won the last five games by an average  margin of 22.2 points. Still, it is time for the Huskies to man up...take WASHINGTON!

Charlotte at Utah 9:00 ET

Hornets (-) over Jazz- I’m sorry I have to use this type of game with a pair of dregs playing each other but I smell a rat here. Would someone tell me why a team that has won only eight of 36 games would be favored on the road where they are 2-15 straight-up. Now, I understand that Utah is not so good (like I said a dreg) but they have more wins and are at home and the Hornets have dropped 19 of their last 21 overall. Take CHARLOTTE!

Houston at Denver 9:00 ET

Rockets (+) over Nuggets- As of right now the Nuggets still receive more respect than does Houston and actually at this time the Rockets are the better team. They have come a long way since have the most losses in the NBA a year and a half back. Houston has won four straight games and five of their past six games and have not lost two-in-a-row this season. Head up the Rockets have won four of the last five from the Nuggets. Take HOUSTON!

Dallas at New Orleans 8:00 ET

Pelicans (+) over Mavericks- These two met earlier this season when Luca Doncic  was healthy and Kyrie Irving was of right mind Dallas destroyed the Pelicans 132-91. That was the Mavericks largest margin of victory of the season and the largest margin of defeat for New Orleans. The Pelicans have won four of seven after an 11-game losing streak. The Mavs are moving in the wrong direction right now having lost seven of their last nine games. Take NEW ORLEANS

Utah at TCU 8:00 ET

Utes (+) over Horned Frogs- There was a time when these two would be playing each other under a different banner as former Mountain West Conference competitors. After four straight losses the Utes put one together last time out taking down Oklahoma State by 21 points. TCU has alternated wins and losses their past five games and just defeated BYU at home where they are undefeated but they are due to go down here. Take UTAH!

Baylor at Arizona 11:00 ET

Bears (+) over Wildcats- I have no issues playing against Arizona and have already cashed against them a number of times although I did get caught sticking my hand in the cookie jar once so to speak keeping in mind that they have won six in-a-row. As well Baylor was off to a slow start but have now won six of its last seven and are back in the Top-25. These two haven’t met often but the Bears have won the last two meetings and three is a charm. Take BAYLOR!   

Iowa at USC 10:30 ET

Hawkeyes (-) over Trojans- USC returns home after a two-game road trip and is off of their biggest win of the season an 82-72 upset over No.13 Illinois. The last time these two met other than the football field but on the hardwood it has been 42 years so no rivalry or series information exists. Iowa has won five of their last six with the loss a 31-point blowout loss at Wisconsin making their true road games at 0-2. I expect the Trojans to still be enamored with themselves after their big win and they get ambushed tonight. Take IOWA!

Ohio State at Wisconsin 9:00 ET

Buckeyes over Badgers- Wisconsin has changed the way they approach the game...instead of having one of the nation’s most dependable defenses they have now gone to the rout where they will now outscore you averaging 83.1 PPG. The Badgers opened the season 8-0 and were ranked before three straight losses knocked them off the charts but they have rebounded (literally) and have won six straight. The Buckeyes are off of a home loss to Oregon and will be ready to play an original Big Ten rival. Take OHIO STATE!

Arkansas at LSU 9:00 ET

Tigers (+) over Razorbacks- Now, I find it funny that these two basketball schools will be meeting without a win in SEC action. Both Arkansas ans LSU are 11-5 overall and 0-3 in conference play so something has to give here. The Razorbacks have won five of the past seven meetings and enter this contest on a three-game slide after a six game win streak and are 2-8 ATS in the last 10 games overall. The goof is the Tigers have also dropped their last three games but rise up at home. Take LSU!

Clemson at Georgia Tech 8:00 ET

Yellow Jackets (+) over Tigers- These two have split their last 10 meetings but Clemson has won four of the past five including their last meeting at Georgia Tech 81-57. The Tigers have also won four of five and are 5-1 in ACC play. The Yellow Jackets have dropped their last two games and are just a 500 most likely on the season and not make it to the Big Dance in March because they have had a pair of terrible performances. Still, they rise against an old conference rival. Take GEORGIA TECH!

New Orleans at Chicago 8:00 ET

Pelicans (+) over Bulls- These are two clubs that started the season behind everybody else because of injuries and poor play. As both got healthy their play improved and I am looking for to playing them now that they are under-valued. Chicago has won 5-of-8 and with the return of Zion Williamson the Pelicans have picked up the pace and have played 500 ball in their 10. In an earlier meeting this season the Pelicans beat a short-handed Chicago club 123-111. They do it again. Take NEW ORLEANS!

Sacramento at Milwaukee 8:00 ET

Kings (+) over Bucks- The Kings like the Pacers have finally started to play the kind of basketball that produces wins and that is being unselfish and playing defense. Sacramento has won their last seven games and they defeated the Bucks the last time they met. So, what you say Milwaukee had won the previous 15 meetings. That right the Kings had not won in Milwaukee for 10 seasons. But, the hex has been broken and  the Kings will rule. Take SACRAMENTO!

Cleveland at Indiana 7:00 ET

Pacers (+) over Cavaliers- Can lighting strike twice or will the Cavaliers get their revenge. (Ha revenge, (I hate that term). You see Indiana just handed Cleveland their first defeat after 12 straight wins and now it is the Pacers that are streaking. Indiana has win six straight and after a struggle starting the season but they have put themselves in playoff mode. Look for the red-hot Pacers to stay hot. Take INDIANA!

San Antonio at L.A. Lakers 10:30 ET

Spurs (+) over Lakers- The Los Angeles Lakers have won three last three meetings including twice already this season and eight of the past nine meetings. San Antonio has dropped their last three games and this will be their third straight road game. Both of these clubs are midland teams that will stay around the break even mark all season. The Lakers of course because of the fires in LA had one game canceled and of all things even with LA head coach JJ Riddick’s house turning to ashes the Lakers are playing in LA as opposed to some other venue. It doesn’t help today as distraction in the smog laden city  isnworse than ever. Take SAN ANTONIO!

Minnesota vs. LA Rams 8:00 ET

Rams (+) over Vikings- This is a sad spot for Minnesota as they had an opportunity to receive a bye in the Wild Card round and instead they are the No. 5 seed and that spells trouble. Here’s part of the problem for them (aside from Darnold reverting back to his previous form and he is now being referred to as ‘Sane Daronld’. The No. 1 seed (now the Lions) has made it to the Super Bowl in 75% of the games whereas the No. 5 seed has won it just twice as the Giants and Buccaneers have done. This game being move to Glendale only increased the line but the Rams done lose much as their home field advantage with crowd support not the most intimidating in LA. The Vikings have already lost top the Rams in LA 30-20 and then proceeded to win nine straight games until their final against Detroit. The Rams started 1-4 and have now won nine of their past 11 games and have won the past three meetings. Take LOS ANGELES RAMS!

UCLA at Rutgers 6:30 ET

Scarlet Knights (+) over Bruins- Both of these clubs won for ‘us’ earlier in the season but have disappointed us lately and both are on three game skids. Rutgers has been without their top player Dylan Harper who has to return to form tonight. UCLA is another team that has been affected by the wild fires in LA and they are not professionals like the Rams and Lakers and it should weigh heavy on their heads. Take SCARLET KNIGHTS!

Washington at Tampa Bay 8:00 ET

Buccaneers (-) over Scalpers- At first glance I was all over Washington especially after the way they won and yet did not cover against the Cowboys ((Megabucks winner). Tampa Bay was in a battle for their playoffs lives last week (at least in the first half) defeating New Orleans. both quarterbacks Mayfield and Daniels both know how to get the ball into the end zone...but experience is the best teacher. Take TAMPA BAY!

Green Bay at Philadelphia 4:30 ET

Packers (+) over Eagles- I remember after the 1960 Championship game played at Franklin Field in Philadelphia between Green Bay and the Eagles, Vince Lombardi saying that he will not be stopped two-yards short of a Champion again...and they got those yards winning five NFL titles in the nest seven seasons. So what does that have to do with that game 45 years ago,...nothing really but Philadelphia has been so good that things will not as smoothly against the Packers as they did against the Giants. Pack blew a game late against the Bears last week while the Eagles coasted with back-ups over the Giants. The Pack played the No. 6 toughest schedule and all loses except for the final throw-away game against Chicago they only lost to playoff teams where as the Eagles had the 30th weakest schedule for the 2-24 season. It shows today. Down to the final gun...take GREEN BAY!

Sacramento at Chicago 3:30 ET

Bulls (+) over Kings- This price seem a bit off to me but I could not turn down a play on Chicago as they are battling tough having won five of their last seven games. But, the hottest team in the NBA aside from the super teams has to be Sacramento who has won six straight which came on the heels of a six-game losing streak. The winning streak by the Kings influenced to number and I better understand the line. The Kings under new coach Doug Christie are playing their best basketball of the season as these two meet for the first time this year. Kings off of a road win at Boston on Friday and will not have the same intensity here. Take CHICAGO!

Denver at Buffalo 1:00 ET

Broncos (+) over Bills- Bo Nix or Josh Allen...nah, it doesn’t come down to that. They both may end up award winners as MVP and Offensive Rookie of the Year although Jayden Daniels may have a lock on that one. Anyway Denver’s year has been more attributed to Sean Payton in my eyes. No question Buffalo should be the heavy favorite but this is the layoffs and I know the Bills have been very successful in the Wild Card round, but the Broncos’ coach will keep this close. Take DENVER!

Michigan State at Northwestern 12:00 ET

Wildcats (+) over Spartans- This seems to me to be a very short number for Michigan State to be favored after all they have won eight straight and 11 of 12 . Northwestern just dropped a pair on their most current road trip to Purdue and Penn State. The Wildcats have gotten the best of the Spartans against the number covering the last for meetings. For some unknown reason no matter who good MSU is or how bad NW might seem they always play  tough against  this opponent. Take NORTHWESTERN!

Pittsburgh at Baltimore 8:00 ET

Steelers (+) over Ravens- Really now, this team the Pittsburgh Steelers clinched a playoff spot five weeks ago and then went out an lost their final four games and it wasn’t pretty. Pittsburgh quarterback Russell Wilson has reverted back to what we expected out him performance wise and they fall short with him at the helm. We have seen what the Ravens have been doing and Lamar is ready to have a great playoff experience. Take BALTIMORE!

Tennessee at Texas 6:00 ET

Longhorns (+) over Volunteers- Texas is finding out that playing basketball in the SEC can be very treacherous as playing an SEC football schedule. The Longhorns are 0-2 in conference play while Tennessee the No. 1 team in the nation was taken apart at Florida 73-43 on Wednesday. Texas has also dropped their last two games to Texas A&M and at home to Auburn (they made it close but were never in it). The Volunteers have done it with the No. 2 ranked defense allowing just 57.1 PPG but it is a different game on the road. Take TEXAS!

LA Chargers at Houston 4:30 ET

Texans (+) over Chargers- I like everyone else had a knee jerk reaction when I first saw this match-up between these two and I was inclined to take the NFL’s No. 1 ranked scoring defense and that be the Chargers. Houston has not been at their best of late and even looked over-whelmed against to Ravens two weeks ago. Well, I did a little (some anyway) research and found the strongest of trends that gives me the Texans.It seems that home dog Wild Card team are 9-3 ATS and they also fill another positive wave of of goodies that point to the home team. Take HOUSTON!

Florida at Arkansas 4:00 ET

Razorbacks (+) over Gators- The Florida Gators bounced back from their first loss of the season after 13 straight wins with a convincing 73-43 beat down of Tennessee. Arkansas is 8-1 SU at home with the lone loss to Mississippi which happened on Wednesday as they enter this fray having dropped the last two one of which was at Tennessee 76-52. So, the Gators crush Vols, Razorbacks get crushed by Vols. Hence...take ARKANSAS!  

Connecticut at Georgetown 2:00 ET

Huskies (-) over Hoyas- Can this really be happening...no not so much the Connecticut is now allowing others the play with the ball, but Georgetown...is this real. They have been so bad for so long it is difficult to give them the respect that they most assuredly deserve. The Hoyas are 12-3 (a half game better than UConn) and have been doing it the way of the past with defense. They once possessed one of the best full court pressure defenses and they are doing it again with only four of their 15 games going over the total. Connecticut has had some injury issues which continue today and they have yet to find that mesh which led them to two straight National Championships. Take GEORGETOWN!

Kansas at Cincinnati 2:00 ET

Bearcats (+) over Jayhawks- Waddled with three losses already the prideful Jayhawks look to straighten out their issues and they started with defense in the 2nd half allowing Arizona State 13 total points. Cincinnati who was 10-1 and ranked in the Top-25 have dropped three straight including getting blown away 68-48 at Baylor on Tuesday. There were a number of logistic problems that arose in Waco  before and after the game and they never got focused and never were in it. This time the will be ready for their biggest challenge of the season. Take CINCINNATI!

UCLA at Maryland 8:00 ET

Terrapins A(-) over Bruins- The New Year has not been good for either of these clubs as they have both lost a pair of contests. UCLA lost at Nebraska and against at home against Michigan while Maryland got swept on their west coast swing losing at Oregon and Washington. The Bruins were goods to us while defeating Oregon, Arizona and Gonzaga as their defense wasn’t up to par. he Terrapins are happy to return East where a team from the left coast now has to make adjustments. Take MARYLAND!

CFP Cotton Bowl 7:30 ET

Texas vs Ohio State

Longhorns (+) over Buckeyes- This choice was easy for me win or lose...what! You see once Ohio State was beaten by Michigan I said that they had to get to the final game to save Day’s job after having lost his fourth straight without a victory against the Wolves. I have had the Buckeyes in both of heir romps over Tennessee (1st Round GOY winner) and Oregon ( Rose Bowl GOY Winner) and they way they have won has titled the balance of the quest for the championship and the Longhorns must feel slighted and are (not that it really makes a difference) in Texas. Horns looked vulnerable against Arizona State (better than people realize) and Ohio State has looked invincible...they are NOT!. Take TEXAS!

Oklahoma City at New York 7:3 0ET

Knicks (+) over Thunder- OKC has had their way with New York winning the last three meetings and six of the past seven including a home win and cover last Wednesday and are looking to even the score at MSG. The Thunder just had their 15 game winning streak end at Cleveland as the NBA’s best as of now took them down 129-122. NY is 12-5 at home and are rarely an underdog here. Take NEW YORK!

Golden State at Indiana 7:00 ET

Pacers (-) over Warriors- It seems that the more action I see being wagered on Golden State the larger the Pacers become as favorites. Indiana has beaten the Warriors the past two meetings and five of six including a win two days before Christmas 111-105 at Golden State. The Warriors have to be just that as they are a bunch of walking wounded and will be without Andrew Wiggins for personal reasons. Take INDIANA!

New Orleans at Philadelphia 7:00 ET

Pelicans (+) over 76ers- Poor New Orleans it is either one thing or another that destroys the city and the basketball team and even come to think of it to the football team as well. The Pelicans are beginning to mend as they get healthy with the return of oft injured Zion Williamson. Philadelphia has also had to deal with injuries and have been very inconsistent. The Pels have dropped two straight at home but have defeated the 76ers the last two meetings. Take NEW ORLEANS!

Notre Dame vs Penn State 7:30 ET

Nittany Lions (+) over Fighting Irish- It was pointed out that although Penn State would have to win four games it was believed that the had the easiest route to the final and it sure looks that way after wins over SMU and Boise State. Notre Dame who has 11 college football National Championship to their credit but have not won the big one since 1988. The Fighting Irish defeated Georgia with a 17 point blitz in :54 second and their defense did the rest keeping the Bulldogs under 300 total yards on offense. The Domer’s problem is that their quarterback Leonard just might run for more yards than he passes for, like he did against Georgia. The Lions would be so pleased with that as they the Irish offense doesn’t have the balance needed to win here. Take PENN STATE!

Purdue at Rutgers 6:00 ET

Scarlet Knights (+) over Boilermakers- Leave it to educators (I used to be one) to once again have their number bass-ackwards. Rutgers has played 15 games and has seven losses and yet they are ranked on the Top-25. Like in Football when the Big Ten has 18 teams and the Big -12 has 16 teams and the Pac-12 has two teams, so I guess a team with seven losses isn’t a stretch to be ranked. Purdue (11-4) who is ranked No. 20 have posted three straight conference wins after losing their opener at Penn State. The Scarlet Knights have dropped their last two games and 3 of 4 but have one Big Ten win and it is over Penn State. Take RUTGERS!

Penn State at Illinois 9:00 ET

Nittany Lions (+) over Illini- Penn State enters this Big Ten fray as a beaten favorite falling to Indiana 77-71 at home ending a four-game win streak. No. 13 Illinois returns home after a pair of West coast wins over Washington and Oregon but has lost the last four meetings against the Nittany Lions and are 3-7 ATS in the last 10 meetings. Both of these clubs are high scoring with the better defense being played by the Illini but not that big a difference. Take PENN STATE!

Oklahoma City at Cleveland 7:00 ET

Thunder (+) over Cavaliers- A battle between the NBA’s best (Boston might have something to say about that before it is all said and done) who are head and shoulders about the rest of the field. Cleveland got off to that record setting start and at 30-4lead the NBA with Oklahoma City close behind at 30-6 SU. Both are stellar ATS with OKC 24-9-3 and the Cavaliers 24-10 ATS. The difference in styles comes from the Thunder playing defense while Cleveland is looking to outscore you. That 15-0 start by the Cavs has been met by the Thunder who will make it 16 straight with a win tonight. Take OKLAHOMA CITY!

Mississippi at Arkansas 8:00 ET

Rebels (+) over Razorbacks- Now coaching Arkansas John Calipari took over a squad that has defeated Mississippi seven of the past nine meetings and hold a 52-34 all-time series record. The Razorbacks were just beaten 76-52 by No. 1 Tennessee last time out on Saturday while the Rebels opened SEC play with a 63-51 win over Georgia at home on Saturday. More of the same here. Take MISSISSIPPI!

Michigan at UCLA 10:00 ET

Bruins (-) over Wolverines- UCLA suffered their first Big Ten basketball defeat at of all places but Nebraska, who are not known for the cage play but their gridiron action of course. The Bruins were without their top shooting and play making guard Eric Dailey Jr. UCLA is a perfect 8-0 SU at home while the Wolverines are 2-0 in true road games Take MICHIGAN!

Nebraska at Iowa 8:00 ET

Hawkeyes (+) over Cornhuskers- Iowa is coming off of one of their worst losses in decades as Wisconsin destroyed the Hawkeyes 116-85 in Madison. Nebraska coach Fred Hoiberg has his club playing great defense as the just shut down UVLA on Saturday holding the Bruins to their season low shooting just 36%. Iowa does not play defense on the same level as the Cornhuskers. Take NEBRASKA!

Cincinnati at Baylor 8:00 ET

Bears (-) over Bearcats- Both of these clubs are coming off of losses and are looking to regroup. Cincinnati fell from their Top-25 ranking after their second straight defeat while Baylor was annihilated by Iowa State. Cincinnati plays really tough defense and have allowed just 60.5 PPG and that will be the difference as Bearcats are just 2-10 to the over. Take CINCINNATI!

Phoenix at Charlotte 7:00 ET

Hornets (+) over Suns- This has been a one sided series for a while now as Phoenix has won the past seven meetings and 9-of-10 and this will be the their first meeting of the season. he Suns ended a four game losing streak last night as our Power Play winner last night while the Hornets have dropped 10 straight games but have the return of two starters LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller who have been out over a week. Take CHARLOTTE!

Kentucky at Georgia 7:00 ET

Bulldogs (+) over Wildcats- These two SEC clubs are both 12-2 on the season with Kentucky having beaten three teams ranked in the Top-1p defeating Florida, Duke and Gonzaga. Georgia just lost their SEC opener to Mississippi Saturday ending a seven-game winning streak. The Bulldogs shot just 2-for-18 from the three point stripe and they’ll do better than that tonight. Take GEORGIA!

Arizona at West Virginia 7:00 ET

Mountaineers (+) over Wildcats- These two will meet for the second time this season with West Virginia already having defeated the Wildcats 83-76 in overtime in the Battle-4 Atlantis tournament. Things are different this time around as Arizona has fallen out of the Top-25 and West Virginia has moved in. The Wildcats offense will be the difference as the average 85 PPG ranking No. 17 ans No. 13 in rebounds while the Mountaineers average 75.6 ranked No. 179. Revenge is sweet. Take ARIZONA!

Miami at Sacramento 10:00 ET

Heat (+) over Kings- Bye bye love...the Heat have cooled off with the suspension of Jimmy Butler but what did they expect? haven’t this happened everywhere he has been. Well Miami has dropped three in-a-row and the are off a mugging of Golden State 129-99 last night. The Kings return home after a one game road trip and have won their last four so the number is very inviting but I believe the Heat have more grit...Take MIAMI!

LA Clippers at Minnesota 8:00 ET

Timberwolves (-3) over Clippers- Wolves will be going for the series sweep as they have defeated LAC twice already with wins five days apart in Nov. 29 & Dec 4. This will be LA’s second game with the return of Kawhi Leonard and they won his debut 131-105 over Atlanta. The Wolves have dropped their last three and are off of a Saturday loss at Detroit. But, times is a charm...take MINNESOTA!

Phoenix at Philadelphia 7:00 ET

Suns (+) over 76ers- I resisted giving this game so much that I realized it had to be a play (kinda twisted but it might work). Phoenix has lost seven of the last eight and it looks to be getting worse as players are moping around admitting their ‘vibes were low’. After a very slow start Philadelphia has won 11 of the last 16 as Ebiid increases his playing time. But, it is time for the Suns to shine...take PHOENIX!

Wisconsin at Rutgers 7:00 ET

Scarlet Knights (+) over Badgers-  Rutgers has been able to hang with the Badgers winning three of the past five meetings including the last time they played in New Jersey as a 3-point underdog winning 57-56 outright. The Scarlet Knights had a rough spell without Dylan Harper but he returns and teams up with Ace Bailey who already holds the freshman single game scoring record. Take RUTGERS!

Sacramento at Golden State 8:30 ET

Kings (+) over Warriors- These two met four times last year and Golden State  won the first meeting but Sacramento rallied and won the final three games between the two. Off of a six game losing streak the Kings have posted three straight wins and are a respectable 7-7 SU on the road. This line seem rather shallow as Golden State was a 6.5-point favorite over the Kings just over a year ago. Take SACRAMENTO!