40* WAKE FOREST/PITT NCAAB VEGAS INSIDER (Pittsburgh -4.5) 

I will gladly take my chances here with Pitt as a slim 4.5-point home favorite against Wake Forest. I know the Panthers have had a couple of key guys decide to leave the team via the transfer portal, but it's not as bad as it might look. Pitt comes in having lost 5 straight and 8 of their last 9, but could easily have a winning record during this stretch. Of those 8 losses, 7 have come by 10 or fewer with 3 of them by 3 or fewer. 

I just think that this team has been so close that they are going to show up here and take care of business against the Demon Deacons. I don't even know if they need their best showing to win and cover here. Wake Forest has lost 5 straight and have struggled to even keep games close. In their last 4 games they have lost by 24 at home to Duke, by 18 at home to NC State, by 21 at home to Clemson and by 38 at Virginia Tech. Give me Pittsburgh -4.5! 

40* OKLAHOMA/OKLAHOMA ST NCAAB VEGAS INSIDER (Oklahoma -1.5) 

I'll gladly take my chances here with the Sooners as a 1.5-point road favorite against the Cowboys. This line smells something awful. Oklahoma just lost at home to Oklahoma State 90-94 in OT on Saturday. That's now back-to-back losses for the Sooners, while the Cowboys have won 4 straight. 

The betting public won't be able to help themselves here with Oklahoma State as a home dog. When it looks like the wrong team is favored, especially this late in the year, in a game of this magnitude, you got to look the other way. That's exactly what I'm doing. I still think the Sooners are the better team. Keep in mind it took a career-high 40 points from freshman Cade Cunningham for the Cowboys to get that win in Norman on Saturday. 

Oklahoma State is also a mere 1-9 ATS in their last 10 home games when off 2 or more consecutive wins and 0-6 ATS in their last 6 if off 3 or more consecutive wins. Sooners are 11-3 ATS last 14 on the road when playing a good team that's won 60% to 80% of their games. Give me Oklahoma -1.5! 

50* NUGGETS/BULLS NBA *BEST BET* TOP PLAY (Bulls +5)

I love the value here with the Bulls catching 5-points at home against the Nuggets. Denver is just getting a little too much love here on the road coming off that big 30-point road win over OKC. Even with that win the Nuggets are just 6-7 over their last 13 games. Denver figures to continue to struggle until they get back to full strength. They are down two key players right now in Milsap and Harris. They also won't have JaMychal Green. 

Bulls come in off a 9-point home loss to the Suns, but had won 5 of 6 prior to that loss. What I love here is that Chicago is well rested, playing on a full 2 days off. They also haven't had to deal with any travel, as they last played on the road Feb. 22nd. Bulls have covered 12 of their last 16 vs a team from the Western Conference. Nuggets are also just 3-15 ATS last 18 off a game where they made 55% or more of their shots and 4-16 ATS last 20 on the road after a win by 15 or more. Give me the Bulls +5! 

50* WIZARDS/CELTICS NBA *BEST BET* TOP PLAY (Celtics -5.5) 

I will take a shot here with the Celtics as a 5.5-point home favorite against the Wizards. Boston made it clear they wanted to finish out their last 4 games before the All-Star break and they delivered in their first game, beating the Pacers 118-112. 

I've seen it all from this team over the last couple months, but I'm confident they show up here and make easy work of Washington. Boston caught a lot of grief losing at Washington as a 7-point road favorite a couple weeks ago, so I don't see them looking past the Wizards. This is also a brutal spot for Washington, who will not only be playing on the road in the 2nd leg of a back-to-back, but their 5th game in the last 7 days. Give me the Celtics -5.5! 

40* MICHIGAN ST/MARYLAND NCAAB SHARP STAKE (Maryland -2.5) 

I think we are getting big time value here with the Terps as a small home favorite against the Spartans. Michigan State has made quite a statement over their last 3 games, beating Indiana on the road before knocking off Illinois and Ohio State at home. No question Tom Izzo has this team playing better, but this is the Big Ten we are talking about. 

Winning on the road in this conference is extremely difficult. I think all the talk coming into this game will be about how good the Spartans are playing. I don't think it will sit well with a Maryland team that has won 4 straight and are 8-4 in their last 12 overall. I just feel laying less than 3 points at home with the Terps is too good to pass up. Give me Maryland -2.5! 

40* PACERS/KNICKS NBA ATS SLAUGHTER (Pacers +1)

I think this is the perfect spot to jump on the Pacers. We are getting some exceptional value here with Indiana because of the fact that they have lost 9 of their last 13, while the Knicks come in having won 5 of their last 7. 

It's clearly not been great for Indiana of late, but I just think more than anything they haven't got some breaks in games and have had played a pretty tough schedule during their current skid. New York is clearly better than they were a season ago, but this is still a mediocre team at best. I mean their 5 wins during this 5-2 run have come against the Kings, Timberwolves, Hawks, Rockets and Wizards. 

Indiana was a 10-point home favorite against New York back on Jan. 2, which means if those two would have played in NY on that day the line would have been something like Pacers -6 or -7. I just don't think the Pacers are that much worse and the Knicks are that much better that this line should be adjusted this much. Give me Indiana +1!

40* ALABAMA/MISS ST NCAAB VEGAS INSIDER (Alabama -5.5) 

I know this is going to be a big public play, but if there's one team in the SEC that I will go down swinging with it's Alabama, especially when the Crimson Tide are coming off a loss like they are here. Alabama played about as poorly as they could in Wednesday's 66-81 setback to Arkansas. 

I'm confident Nate Oats will have this team ready to go on Saturday at Mississippi State. A team they can beat with ease if they show up with the right mindset. I just don't see the Bulldogs being able to keep pace offensively. Alabama is scoring 83.4 ppg in SEC play and Mississippi State averages a mere 66.9 ppg in conference games. Give me the Crimson Tide -5.5! 

50* FLORIDA ST/N CAROLINA NCAAB *BEST BET* TOP PLAY (North Carolina +3.5) 

I really like North Carolina as a 3.5-point home dog against Florida State. I think we are getting exceptional value with the Tar Heels because of the fact that they come into this game off an ugly loss at home to Marquette, losing by 13 as a 9.5-point favorite. While I didn't think they would lose, that wasn't a surprising result for me (I was on Marquette), as I thought that was a trap game for UNC off that huge 99-54 win against Louisville and having this huge game against FSU on deck. 

Florida State is a really good team and are currently 2-games in front in the ACC standings over Virginia, but I don't know that the Seminoles are elite. I think they are getting a little too much love in this spot. North Carolina is a team that has gotten better and better as the season has went on and simply put this game means a lot more to them than it does the Seminoles. UNC also has proven they can hang with FSU, as they lost by just 7 on the road earlier this season. Give me the Tar Heels +3.5! 

40* ILLINOIS/WISCONSIN NCAAB SHARP STAKE (Wisconsin -4) 

No way am I passing up a play on Wisconsin as a mere 4-point home favorite against Illinois with the Fighting Illini down not just their best player but one of the best players in the country in Ayo Dosunmu. I get Illinois destroyed Nebraska by 16 without Dosunmu on Thursday, but that's Nebraska. Most of the top Big Ten teams could beat the Cornhuskers by double-digits on their home floor without their best player. 

Not only that, but the Fighting Illini are playing this game at Wisconsin on just 1 day of rest and as good as the Badgers are, it will be hard for Illinois to not look ahead to Tuesday's huge road game at Michigan. As for Wisconsin, they really need a win here after going just 4-5 in their last 9. They will definitely be the fresher team, as they have been off since Sunday. I think it all adds up to not just a win but an easy win for the Badgers. Give me Wisconsin -4! 

50* SUNS/BULLS NBA *BEST BET* TOP PLAY (Suns -5.5)

I will gladly lay the 5.5-points on the road with Phoenix against the Bulls. I just think Chicago is getting a little too much respect in this one. Bulls have gone 5-1 SU and 4-1-1 ATS in their last 6 games, but it's really not that impressive when you look at who they have played. 

The 5 wins during this stretch have come against the Pacers, Pistons, Kings, Rockets and Timberwolves. So 4 of those wins are against teams who currently own the 4 worst records in the league in Detroit, Sacramento, Houston and Minnesota. Indiana is just 15-15 and have been playing some of their worst basketball of late. 

Phoenix is one of the best teams in the league with a 20-11 record. The Suns have won and covered 9 of their 14 road games this season and will definitely be motivated for this game coming off an ugly 121-124 loss at home to Charlotte as a 9-point favorite. Give me Phoenix -5.5! 

40* CLIPPERS/GRIZZLIES NBA VEGAS INSIDER (Clippers -6.5) 

I'll take my chances here with the Clippers exacting their revenge and covering the 6.5-point spread against the Grizzlies tonight. These two teams played last night in Memphis and the Grizzlies embarrassed LA in a 122-94 win as a 8-point dog. 

As you can see we are getting 1.5-points of value off the spread, which I think is huge given how motivated the Clippers should be for this game. LA couldn't have played much worse in last night's loss, as they shot just 40% from the field and allowed Memphis to shoot 54%. They were also -8 in turnovers, were outscored 74-24 in the paint and 21-4 in fast break points. No way this team plays that poorly in back-to-back games against the same team. Give me the Clippers -6.5! 

40* N TEXAS/MARSHALL NCAAB SHARP STAKE (Marshall -3.5) 

I will gladly lay the 3.5-points at home with Marshall on Friday as they get ready to host Nort Texas. The Mean Green come in tied with WKU for the best record in C-USA at 8-2, but it's a bit misleading. North Texas has only played 2 games to this point against the Top 5 teams in the conference (N Texas, WKU, La Tech, UAB and Marshall). Those both coming against LA Tech at home. They lost the first game to the Bulldogs and barely won the second by a final of 57-55. 

Simply put I think the Mean Green are way overvalued in what will easily be their toughest road challenge since playing 3 on the road in non-conference against Arkansas, Miss St and W Virginia. Marshall has won 6 of their 8 home games with the only setback at home in conference play against what I think is the best team in C-USA in WKU (only lost by 2). Give me the Thundering Herd -3.5! 

40* OHIO ST/MICHIGAN ST NCAAB SHARP STAKE (Michigan St +4) 

I will take a shot here with Michigan State as a 4-point home dog against Ohio State. You always expect a Tom Izzo coached team to progress as the season goes on and it feels like this Spartans team has turned a big corner in the last week. 

It started on Saturday when they went on the road and beat Indiana 78-71 as a 6.5-point road dog. They followed that up with an even more impressive win, beating Illinois 81-72 as a 8.5-point home dog. There will be no letdown or taking the foot off the gas, as Michigan State needs this game to really improve their chances at an NCAA Tournament bid. 

Most will see this as a big bounce back game for Ohio State after having their 7-game winning streak snapped in Sunday's 87-92 loss to Michigan. I'm not sold on that being the case. That was such a huge game against the Wolverines. I actually think they could come out flat here. Keep in mind they got two massive games on deck to close out Big Ten play at home against Iowa and Illinois.

Buckeyes will also be short-handed in this game. Starting power forward Kyle Young is out with a concussion. They could also be without key reserve Musa Jallow, who is questionable after missing their last game with an ankle injury. Give me the Spartans +4! 

40* W KENTUCKY/HOUSTON NCAAB VEGAS INSIDER (WKU +12)

I really like the value here with the Hilltoppers as a 12-point road dog against No. 12 Houston. We cashed in a very similar spot last night with Marquette as a 9.5-point dog at North Carolina. The Golden Eagles not only covered, they won the game outright 83-70. 

Playing out of conference this late in the year is a bit challenging and I think it's more so for a team like Houston, who doesn't have a whole lot to prove right now. Cougars also have to be feeling themselves a little bit after absolutely destroying Cincinnati 90-52 in their last game. 

This game means so much more to a team like Western Kentucky and you can bet they aren't too happy about how big a dog they are in this game. That's only going to light the fire that much more for the Hilltoppers. Not like we haven't seek WKU show out against top tier teams, as they only lost by 6 to West Virginia on a neutral floor back in November and won at Alabama 73-71 in mid-December. Give me the Hilltoppers +12! 

40* TENNESSEE/VANDERBILT NCAAB ATS ANNIHILATOR (Vanderbilt +8)

I'm willing to take a shot here with the Commodores as a near double-digit home dog against the Volunteers. Vanderbilt comes into this game a mere 6-12 overall and 2-10 in SEC play, but if you look closely you will see that the Commodores haven't been playing as bad as their record would indicate. Out of their 10 losses in SEC play, 7 have come by 7 points or fewer, which includes each of their last 5 conference losses. They just lost by a mere 4-points at Alabama in their last game, who is by far the best team in the league. 

Tennessee did beat Vandy by 20 at home earlier this year, but the Vols aren't playing at near the same level now as they were when they faced off in mid January. Tennessee just lost at home to Kentucky 70-55 in their last game. Any time a good team like the Vols are off a bad loss and playing a bad team, public loves to back them and it creates value on the other side. Give me Vanderbilt +8! 

40* RUTGERS/INDIANA NCAAB VEGAS INSIDER (Rutgers -3) 

I'm going to take the Rutgers Scarlet Knights -3 at home against the Indiana Hoosiers. I think this is a great buy low spot on Rutgers, who comes in having lost 3 of their last 4. While two of those were road games at Iowa and Michigan, the most recent was a 59-68 setback at home to Maryland as a 5-point favorite.

That's the game the betting public will have trouble looking past and I believe why we are getting such a great price in this matchup. Big thing to note with the bad showing against the Terps is it did come on just 2 days of rest after really laying it all on the line against Michigan the game before. 

While Rutgers hasn't been as dominant at home as they were last season, they are a very respectable 9-4 at the Athletic Center and prior to the loss to Maryland the other 3 home losses were all to teams ranked in the Top 15 at KenPom in Iowa, Ohio State and Wisconsin. Last two times they have hosted Indiana they have come away with easy wins. Last year they beat the Hoosiers 59-50 and the year before won 66-58. 

As you can see Rutgers defense really made life miserable on Indiana's offense and I think we are going to see that trend continue. Scarlet Knights are only giving up 66.9 ppg on 41.1% shooting at home this year and the Hoosiers are far from a great offensive team. While Indiana does average 70.3 ppg on the road, they have shot just 43% from the field in those games and those ppg numbers are a bit skewed because of the fact that they have played 5 OT periods on the road this year. 

I just don't see the Hoosiers being able to keep pace in this one and I think we are getting a solid 2-3 points in value on the number here. Give me Rutgers -3! 

50* WOLVES/BULLS NBA *BEST BET* TOP PLAY (Bulls -4)

I love the Bulls -4 at home against the Timberwolves tonight. Chicago has won 4 of their last 5 and have owned bad teams at home like Minnesota, cashing 8 of their last 10 at home against a team with a losing road record. 

The Timberwolves are just 1-9 in their last 10 games, have failed to cover 5 straight and are a mere 3-13 on the road this season. If that's not bad enough, Minnesota is also in a horrible rest situation playing on no rest and their 3rd road game in 4 days. This line should be closer to 7. Give me the Bulls -4! 

40* WARRIORS/PACERS NBA ATS NO-BRAINER (Pacers -3) 

I'm going to take the Indiana Pacers -3 at home against the Golden State Warriors. I just feel this is too good a price to pass up with the Pacers at home, given the huge rest edge they will have on Wednesday.

Indiana has had the last week off after Saturday's game at Houston was postponed because of the ice storm that hit Texas and Monday's game at home against the Spurs because of a Covid outbreak within the San Antonio organization. 

While the Pacers will be fresh and eager to get back in action, the Warriors will be playing the second leg of a back-to-back after Tuesday's game in New York against the Knicks. Not only will Golden State be on no rest, but this will be their 4th game in 6 days as they played a back-to-back at Orlando and Charlotte on Friday/Saturday. 

The word is the Warriors could be getting back two big men in Kevon Looney and James Wiseman for the game against the Knicks. Those are definitely two key guys returning for Golden State, but if they play against New York I wouldn't be shocked if they played it safe and didn't play them against the Pacers. Either way those two figure to be a little rusty. I also wouldn't be surprised if the Warriors didn't rest some other guys in this spot. 

Also worth pointing out Golden State has been a good fade on no rest, as they are just 5-17-1 ATS in their last 23 games in the second of a back-to-back. They are also just 5-13 ATS last 18 trips to Indiana. Give me the Pacers -3! 

40* MARQUETTE/N CAROLINA NCAAB ATS SLAUGHTER (Marquette +9.5) 

I really like the value here with Marquette as a 9.5-point road dog against the Tar Heels. I just think we are getting exceptional value with the Golden Eagles, who are just 2-6 in their last 8 games. What I like with Marquette is they are coming off one of their best games, beating Butler 73-57 last Wednesday and will be chomping at the bit having had a full week off. 

As for the Tar Heels, we are seeing them way overvalued in this game after their 99-54 thrashing of Louisville on Saturday. Thing to keep in mind is that was an awful spot for the Cardinals playing their first game in nearly 20 days. 

I also don't love the spot for UNC with a massive home game on deck against ACC front-runner Florida State. Not saying the Tar Heels won't win, but I think they are sloppy enough to let Marquette hand around and keep it within the number. Give me the Golden Eagles +9.5! 

50* OLE MISS/MISSOURI NCAAB *BEST BET* TOP PLAY (Missouri -3) 

I love the value here with Missouri as a mere 3-point home favorite against Ole Miss. Missouri got back big man Jeremiah Tilmon after he had missed the last two and it resulted in an easy 93-78 win at South Carolina as a mere 4-point favorite. I think the books are still undervaluing the Tigers here at home against the Rebels. 

Part of the reason for the value here is the fact that Ole Miss beat Missouri 80-59 at home recently on Feb. 10th. What gets overlooked in that outcome is the fact that the Tigers were in a huge letdown spot coming off two hard fought wins at home over Kentucky (75-70) and Alabama (68-65). There will be no overlooking the Rebels in the rematch at home. Give me Missouri -3! 

40* KANSAS/TEXAS NCAAB ATS NO-BRAINER (Texas -2.5) 

I like the value here with the Longhorns as a 2.5-point home favorite against the Jayhawks. Texas has to be chomping at the bit here to get back on the floor after blowing a 19-point 2nd half lead in Saturday's 82-84 loss at home to West Virginia. 

I also think we are getting value here because of the fact that Kansas comes in having won 5 straight with the most recent being a big 67-61 win at home over Texas Tech. Thing is the only two games on the road during this 5-game winning streak were at ISU and K-State, the two worst teams in the Big 12. Prior to those 2 road wins, Kansas had dropped 5 straight away from home in Big 12 play. Jayhawks also lost 59-84 at home to Texas earlier this season, so we know the Longhorns matchup well here. Give me Texas -2.5! 

50* WARRIORS/KNICKS NBA *BEST BET* TOP PLAY (Warriors -2.5)

I absolutely love this spot and price with Golden State as a mere 2.5-point road favorite against the Knicks. Warriors are going to be extremely motivated to get back in the win column after giving away their last two games at Orlando and Charlotte. 

I also think there's some value here because of how well New York has been fairing of late. Knicks are 6-3 SU and 7-1-1 ATS in their last 9 games. Thing is a lot of these wins have come against bad teams. I think they also benefit a lot from teams not showing up with their "A" game against them. 

The Warriors will be ready for this one and could be getting a huge boost to their rotation. After playing several games now without a traditional center, both Kevin Looney and James Wiseman could be returning for this game. Both practiced in full, so while they are questionable, it seems likely both will suit up. Either way, I like the Warriors to get the win and cover here. Give me Golden State -2.5! 

40* 76ERS/RAPTORS NBA ATS SLAUGHTER (76ers -1.5) 

I'll take my chances here with the 76ers as a mere 1.5-point road favorite against the Raptors. I know Toronto has been playing well here of late, having won 4 straight and covered in 9 of their last 12. Raptors also just beat Philly at home 110-103 on Sunday as a 3-point dog. 

I just think it's going to be really tough here for Toronto to beat this 76ers team in back-to-back games. One thing to keep in mind with that recent meeting is Philadelphia was right there with a chance to win despite shooting a miserable 38.8% from the field and allowing the Raptors to shoot 49.4%. 76ers get their revenge. Give me Philadelphia -1.5! 

40* FLORIDA/AUBURN NCAAB VEGAS INSIDER (Auburn -1) 

I like the value here with Auburn as a mere 1-point home favorite against Florida. It's been a rough go here of late for the Tigers, who have lost 5 of their last 6, but 3 of those defeats could have easily went the other way. 

I just think their ability to put up a big number here offensively will propel them to a win. Auburn is averaging 81.3 ppg at home and will be facing a Florida defense that gives up 76.8 ppg on the road. The Tigers are also much better defensively at home than on the road and will be facing a Gators team that is shooting just 44% as a team in their last 5. Give me Auburn -1! 

40* NOTRE DAME/LOUISVILLE NCAAB SHARP STAKE (Louisville -4) 

I'm willing to take a shot here with Louisville as a mere 4-point home favorite against Notre Dame. We played against the Cardinals at UNC on Saturday and won easily, as the Tar Heels cruised to a 99-54 win. 

I just hated that spot for Louisville playing on the road against a red-hot Tar Heels team after not having played a game in almost 20 days. I expect a much better showing out of the Cardinals here at home, where they are 8-1 on the season. It's also not a great spot here for Notre Dame, who is off a loss at Syracuse on Saturday and back on the road after just 2 days off. 

Cardinals have really responded well to an ugly loss, as they are a perfect 6-0 ATS last 2 seasons off a loss by 10 or more. Give me Louisville -4! 

40* SYRACUSE/DUKE NCAAB VEGAS INSIDER (Duke -5) 

I will gladly lay the 5-points at home with Duke against Syracuse. I've mentioned this quite a bit, the Orange are simply a team that you need to look to back at home and fade on the road. It's why I unloaded on Syracuse with a 50* Top Play as a small home favorite against ND on Saturday (won 75-67) and will now instantly fade them on the road against the Blue Devils. Syracuse is 11-1 at home compared to just 2-5 on the road. The offense takes a dip on the road as expected, but the defense really regressess. 

Duke is also a team I want to be on right now. Blue Devils have won and covered 3 straight and are a team on a mission as they try to finish strong and make a case for a NCAA Tournament bid. Duke has got their offense going with 5 straight games shooting 50% or better from the field. I just don't see Syracuse's defense being able to hold up. Give me the Blue Devils -5! 

40* 76ERS/RAPTORS NBA SHARP STAKE (76ers -2.5) 

I will gladly lay the 2.5-points on the road with the 76ers as they visit the Raptors on Sunday. When Philadelphia has had their full complement of players this season, they have been extremely tough to beat. While the Nets may have overtaken Philly as the team to beat in the East, this is still an extremely talented team. 

Toronto has been playing better here of late, but are unlikely to have one of the best players in Kyle Lowry. I just think that's a big loss to overcome in this matchup. We saw the Raptors only score 86 points in their last game against the Wolves without him. I know this team just swept the Bucks in a mini 2 game series at Milwaukee, but I think it has them a bit overvalued in this spot. Give me the 76ers -2.5! 

50* PISTONS/MAGIC NBA *BEST BET* TOP PLAY (Magic -1.5) 

I can't help myself here with the Magic as a mere 1.5-point home favorite against the Pistons. Orlando has won 3 of their last 4 and covered 4 of their last 5. It's no coincidence their recent strong play has coincided with them getting back a few guys from injury. 

I just don't think the number here is near enough with what the Pistons are working with right now. Detroit won't have Delon Wright for this game and are sitting one of their best players in Blake Griffin to be traded. It's a real struggle for this Pistons team to score and it's why this team is a mere 2-13 SU in road games this year. Give me the Magic -1.5! 

40* PENN ST/IOWA NCAAB VEGAS INSIDER (Penn St +11.5) 

I think there's some pretty good value here with the Nittany Lions as a double-digit road dog against the Hawkeyes. Iowa comes in having won and covered 3 straight and I just feel it has them laying a few too many points in a really tough spot. 

The Hawkeyes are fresh off a huge 77-62 road win at Wisconsin on Thursday and will have a really tough time here not looking ahead to their next game against Big Ten leader Michigan. Not saying they won't win at home here, but Penn State is not going to go down without a fight and if they can hit shots they will be in this thing right down to the wire. Give me the Nittany Lions +11.5! 

50* ST. BONAVENTURE/DAVIDSON *BEST BET* TOP PLAY (St Bonaventure -5) 

I think we are getting a great price here to back the Bonnies as a mere 5-point home favorite against Davidson. Good spot to jump on St Bonaventure, who will be motivated here after losing last time out at VCU, especially given they haven't got a chance to play in 8 days. Bonnies are a perfect 6-0 SU and 4-2 ATS at home this season. They have also won every game at home in A-10 play by at least 13 points, including a 70-54 win over VCU as a mere 3-point favorite.

Davidson comes in having won 5 in a row, but their only game since Jan 24th is a cupcake game against a non-DI school in Southern Virginia, which they won 101-51. This basically the first real test the Wildcats will have had in almost a month and it's on the road against one of the best teams in the conference. Give me St Bonaventure -5! 

40* KINGS/BULLS NBA NO DOUBT BLOWOUT (Kings -2) 

I have to take a shot here with Sacramento. The Kings come in having lost 5 straight, all at home, and yet are laying points on the road against the Bulls? This line makes absolutely no sense. The betting public is going to be all over Chicago. There's no choice here but to trust the oddsmakers and take the Kings. 

Sacramento is definitely going to be motivated to get back in the win column, but their biggest advantage in this game is rest. Kings were off yesterday and will be playing just their 2nd game in the last 5 days. Bulls on the other hand are playing on no rest after last night's prime time matchup with the 76ers on ESPN. Give me Sacramento -2! 

40* HEAT/LAKERS NBA ATS NO-BRAINER (Heat +3) 

I will take my chances here with the Heat as a small 3-point road dog against the Lakers. The betting public can't help themselves when it comes to betting LA, but this is not the time to be backing the Lakers. They are without Anthony Davis and Dennis Schroder right now. The got LeBron, but that offense looked a bit lost in their last game against an awful Brooklyn team. 

The Nets didn't care who was suiting up for LA, they wanted to send a message to the defending champs. It's going to be the same thing for Miami, who as even more incentive to want to win here after losing the Lakers in the Finals last year. Give me the Kings +3! 

40* LOUISVILLE/N CAROLINA NCAAB STEAMROLLER (North Carolina -5.5) 

I was ready to lay the short number at home with Louisville on Wednesday against Syracuse, but that game got postponed because of more Covid problems for the Cardinals. It's unclear who will be available for Louisville in this one and I just feel the value is with the Tar Heels at home. 

North Carolina has been playing much better after a sluggish start to the year. Tar Heels are 8-3 since starting out 5-4. They are also a perfect 7-0 on their home floor this season. Louisville is just 3-3 on the road and are scoring just 64.5 ppg away from home. UNC averages 78.1 ppg at home. I don't see the Cardinals keeping up in this one. Give me UNC -5.5! 

40* PURDUE/NEBRASKA NCAAB ATS SLAUGHTER (Nebraska +7) 

I'm willing to take a shot here with Nebraska as a 7-point home dog against Purdue. The Cornhuskers are just 1-11 in Big Ten play and are easily considered the worst team in the league. Thing is they have been playing much better here of late. Nebraska is 3-1 ATS in their last 4 games and the one game they didn't cover as a 10-point dog at Maryland they should have, as they completely fell apart in the final minutes of that game allowing the Terps to go on a late 13-2 run. 

Thing is, Nebraska is considered to be such a bad team that even though their recent play suggests this is a team to back, the betting public just can't do it. I not only think they can cover the big number against the Boilermakers, I wouldn't be surprised at all if they won this game outright. Give me the Cornhuskers +7! 

40* AUBURN/LSU NCAAB VEGAS INSIDER (LSU -4) 

I will gladly lay the 4-points at home with LSU as they host Auburn. The Tigers have won 2 straight since dropping 4 of 5 and are fresh off a huge 78-65 home win over Tennessee. The good thing is that big upset win came last Saturday, so there's no concern here with a letdown. 

While LSU is surging, Auburn has really fallen off of late. The Tigers are just 1-4 in their last 5 games and have played just 1 game in the last 10 days. Not to mention the only win during this poor run is a mere 6-point win over bottom-feeder Vanderbilt. Auburn is 2-10 ATS last 12 on the road after a game where they failed to cover and 1-9 ATS last 10 on the road after an upset loss as a road favorite. Give me LSU -4!

50* NOTRE DAME/SYRACUSE NCAAB *BEST BET* TOP PLAY (Syracuse -2.5) 

I love the Orange as a slim 2.5-point home favorite against Notre Dame today. Syracuse is just one of those teams you want to back at home and look to fade on the road. The Orange are 10-1 at the Carrier Dome, compared to 2-5 on the road. I also like that we have a very fresh and motivated Syracuse team in this one, as they haven't played in a week after Wednesday's game against Louisville was postponed. 

Also, I feel the value here is stemming from the fact that the Irish enter this game having won 2 straight and 6 of 8 overall. I just feel their recent run is more a result of the schedule being easy than it is this team is any good. Give me Syracuse -2.5! 

40* MISSOURI/S CAROLINA NCAAB SHARP STAKE (South Carolina +3.5) 

I'll take a shot here with South Carolina as a home dog against the Tigers. This line screams take the Gamecocks. Everyone is going to be on a ranked Missouri team here against a South Carolina team that has lost 4 straight, including each of their last 3 at home. 

Thing is the Tigers aren't exactly in prime form right now. Missouri has dropped their last 3 games and are just 2-5 ATS in their last 7. It's a great spot here to back the Gamecocks off that ugly 20-point loss to Tennessee (73-93) on Wednesday. South Carolina is 11-2 ATS last 13 off a conference loss by 10 or more and 6-0 ATS last 6 after giving up 90 or more in their last game. Give me the Gamecocks +3.5! 

40* RUTGERS/MICHIGAN NCAAB ATS NO-BRAINER (Rutgers +9)

I'm willing to take a shot here with the Scarlet Knights at +9 on the road against Michigan. I think we saw the books discount the Wolverines a little bit in their last game against Wisconsin, which was their first game back after more than 3 weeks off. While it took a huge 2nd half comeback, the betting public is only concerned about the final result, which ended in a 67-59 win. 

I think it has them a bit overvalued here at home now against Rutgers, one of the hottest teams in the league. Scarlet Knights are 5-1 in their last 6 games. They also desperately need this game to really help out their NCAA Tournament resume. 

As for Michigan, they are sitting pretty right now. I think coming off that big comeback win over Wisconsin and a massive game on deck against No. 4 Ohio State, who also is their biggest rival, makes this a perfect play against spot. Give me Rutgers +9! 

50* UTAH/OREGON ST NCAAB *BEST BET* TOP PLAY (Oregon State +2.5) 

I love the value here with Oregon State as a home dog against the Utes. This is a perfect buy low spot on the Beavers, who come in having lost 3 straight. Thing is, those 3 losses all came on the road. The first two were against two of the best teams in the Pac-12 in Colorado and Arizona. The other was a mere 2-point loss at Arizona State on just 2 days of rest. 

Prior to this stretch the Beavers had won 5 of 7 and the only 2 losses during this stretch were road games at USC and UCLA. Oregon State has won 7 of their last 9 at home and I just don't think they should be a dog here. Utah has won 3 of 4, but just lost at Stanford 66-73. This will also be the Utes 3rd straight road game and 6th out of their last 7 away from home. 

Utah is also dealing with some key injuries right now. The Utes recently lost big man Mikael Jantunen and one of their top guards, Rylan Jones, is questionable with a arm injury that has kept him out of their last two games. Give me Oregon State +2.5! 

40* OHIO ST/PENN ST NCAAB SHARP STAKE (Penn State +4.5) 

I will take my chances with the Nittany Lions as a 4.5-point home dog against the Buckeyes. I just feel like this is a great spot to back Penn State, who is way undervalued after just losing at home to Nebraska as a double-digit favorite in their last game.

The Nittany Lions had won their 4 previous home games before that shocking loss and it's almost like they took the Cornhuskers lightly. They won't take No. 4 ranked Ohio State lightly. A team they know they can hang with, as they only lost by 4 on the road to the Buckeyes earlier this season. 

Another huge factor here is the spot for Ohio State. This could be a really tough game for them to bring their "A" game. Buckeyes come in having won 6 straight and just crushed Indiana by 19 in their last game. Easy for them to not give their full attention to a struggling Penn State team with a massive game on deck Sunday at home against Michigan. Give me the Nittany Lions +4.5! 

40* RAPTORS/BUCKS NBA ATS SLAUGHTER (Bucks -5.5) 

I will gladly lay the 5.5-points at home with Milwaukee against the Raptors. This feels like the ultimate time to buy low on the Bucks, who have dropped 4 straight and the most recent loss was a 113-124 home loss to the same Toronto team on Tuesday. So not only do we have one of the best teams in the league extremely motivated to get back in the win column, but they are playing with some serious revenge. 

Toronto could also be down one of their best players with Kyle Lowry questionable to play after leaving the game on Tuesday with an ankle injury. Bucks are 32-16 ATS last 48 off an upset loss as a favorite and 15-3 ATS last 18 when off loss by 10 or more as a favorite. Give me Milwaukee -5.5! 

40* MINNESOTA/INDIANA NCAAB VEGAS INSIDER (Indiana -4.5)

I'm going to take the Indiana Hoosiers -4.5 at home against the Minnesota Golden Gophers. This is just too good a price for me to pass up with Indiana. To say the Gophers have been awful on the road this year would be putting it nicely. Minnesota has played 7 road games and lost all 7. Everyone of those coming in Big Ten play. 

It's not just the inability for the Gophers to win on the road, they struggle to simply keep games close. Of those 7 road losses, 6 have come by double-digits. A big reason for that is their offense can't score. Minnesota averages a respectable 75 ppg on the season, but only 63.6 ppg on the road. 

Gophers are also the worst 3-point shooting team in the Big Ten, which plays right into the strength of this Indiana defense. The one thing that Minnesota's offense does well is rack up offensive rebounds. They are No. 2 in the Big Ten in that department. That figures to be negated some here, as Indiana is 4th best in the Big Ten at keeping opponents off the offensive glass. 

It's not just the offense that goes missing for the Gophers away from home. They are giving up a staggering 80.0 ppg on the road. Not to mention only Iowa and Northwestern have a worse defensive efficiency in the Big Ten. Look for the Hoosiers to get a lot of easy looks and rack up a big edge at the free throw line. Indiana is No. 1 in the Big Ten in free throw rate and Minnesota is No. 12 in the conference in terms of sending opponents to the free throw line. I just don't think 4.5 is enough, as I would make this closer to 6-7 point spread. Give me the Hoosiers -4.5! 

40* NUGGETS/CELTICS NBA SHARP STAKE (Celtics -2.5) 

I think this is the perfect spot to back the Celtics as a slim 2.5-point home favorite against the Nuggets on Tuesday. Boston couldn't look much worse here of late, as they have lost 4 of 5 with the last two being ugly losses to the Pistons as a 7-point home favorite and the Wizards as a 7-point road favorite. 

I just think enough is enough with this poor play and we are going to see the Celtics come out with one of their best showings of the season tonight. On the flip side of this, I love fading the Nuggets here. Denver is in a big letdown spot after their big home win over the Lakers on Sunday. On top of that, this is a banged up Nuggets team, who will be without Garry Harris, Will Barton and Paul Millsap. Monte Morris is also questionable. If Morris can't play they got absolutely nothing at the guard position outside of Murray. Give me the Celtics -2.5! 

40* NEBRASKA/MARYLAND NCAAB VEGAS INSIDER (Maryland -10) 

I will take another shot at fading the Cornhuskers on the road. I played on Penn State -11 at home against Nebraska on Sunday and was shocked to see the Cornhuskers not only cover but win the game 62-61. That's not going to keep me from taking Maryland here. 

Clearly getting that elusive win in Big Ten play was a big deal for Nebraska. They were winless at 0-9 in conference games going into that contest and had lost 26 conference games in a row dating back to last year. They also snapped a 24-game road losing streak. 

The fact that they got that win only makes me like the Terps more, as I see Nebraska having a big letdown in this game. Not only is this game less of a big deal since they got that elusive win, but it's also their 3rd game since playing an OT game against Illinois on Friday and their 4th game in the last week. Not to mention their second straight on the road with just 1 day of rest. Give me Maryland -10!  

40* VIRGINIA/FLORIDA ST NCAAB VEGAS INSIDER (Florida State -1) 

I'm confident we will cash a winner here with Florida State at basically a pick'em at home against Virginia. I wasn't surprised to see the Seminoles struggle a bit with Wake Forest on Saturday, as that was their first game in almost 2 weeks. The important thing is they found a way to win in OT and now will be 100% locked in for this game against the Cavaliers. 

Considering the fact that Florida State has won 23 straight conference home games, that's really enough for me to back the Seminoles at this price at home. I know Virginia is 5-1 in ACC road games, but those 5 wins have come against Notre Dame, BC, Clemson, NC State and Georgia Tech. All of those teams rank outside the Top 45 at KenPom, where FSU is ranked 20th. 

Seminoles have also gone 8-1 ATS last 9 at home against great defensive teams like Virginia, who are allowing 64 or fewer points/game. They are also 11-3 ATS last 14 at home vs a ACC opponent. Virginia is 3-11 ATS last 14 off a win by 10 or more and 1-8 ATS last 9 after allowing 55 or less. Give me Florida State -1! 

40* NEBRASKA/PENN ST NCAAB VEGAS INSIDER (Penn State -11) 

I will lay the 11-points with Penn State at home against Nebraska. I know the Cornhuskers are searching for that elusive Big Ten win, but this is a team that has simply not been competitive on the road in conference play. Nebraska is 0-4 in away games in the Big Ten, losing by 14 at Wisconsin, 36 at Ohio State, 10 at Michigan State and by 18 at Minnesota. They also lost by 24 at Creighton in their only non-conference away game. 

I just think the Cornhuskers are getting a little love after taking Illinois to OT at home in their last game. I actually think they it will be harder for them coming so close to beating a team like the Fighting Illini and coming up short. As for Penn State, they should be motivated here off a loss at Michigan State. Penn State has won 4 straight at home in Big Ten play and have to have this one. Give me the Nittany Lions -11!

50* UTAH/STANFORD PAC-12 GAME OF THE MONTH (Stanford -4.5) 

I backed Stanford as a slim home dog against Colorado on Thursday and it didn't go well with the Cardinal losing 51-69. It was just a bad game from the start for Stanford, who fell behind 10-0 to start the game and gave up 3 different 10-0 runs in the game. You got no chance of beating a team like the Buffaloes doing that. 

I just feel that performance has the Cardinal showing some really good value here as a slim 4.5-point home favorite against Utah. The Utes have won 3 straight, but are not a team to be trusted on the road. Utah is a mere 5-14 ATS on the road over the last 2 seasons, where they are losing by an average of 10 ppg. Stanford is 14-5 ATS last 19 as a home favorite or pick, 22-9 ATS last 31 at home after failing to cover 4 of their last 5 and 14-5 ATS last 19 at home off a home game. Give me the Cardinal -4.5! 

40* OLE MISS/S CAROLINA VEGAS INSIDER (Ole Miss -1.5) 

I will gladly back the red-hot Rebels as a slim 1.5-point road favorite against South Carolina. Ole Miss comes in off about as impressive 3-game stretch as you will find in SEC play. The Rebels knocked off Tennessee at home, beat Auburn on the road and then absolutely destroyed Missouri 80-59 at home in their last game. 

South Carolina on the other hand has lost 6 of their last 8 games, including the last two at home. They lost by 16 at home to a very mediocre Mississippi State team last Saturday and then lost 78-81 at home to the top SEC team in Alabama. I just think they put everything they had into that game against the Crimson Tide and to lose they way they did, I just think it's going to be really hard for them to bounce back with the kind of effort needed to take out Ole Miss. Give me the Rebels -1.5! 

40* DUKE/NC STATE NCAAB ATS NO-BRAINER (Duke -3) 

I'm willing to take a shot here with Duke as a mere 3-point road favorite against NC State. I just feel like now is the time to buy low on the Blue Devils, who come in having lost 3 straight with the last two coming as home favorites against UNC and Notre Dame. 

It just feels like it's now or never for Duke to flip the switch and get this thing turned around. I don't know that there's a better team for them to do that against than the Wolfpack. NC State is just 4-7 in ACC play and have lost 7 of their last 9 with their only two wins coming against bottom feeders Wake Forest and Boston College. Give me the Blue Devils -3! 

40* GEORGIA/ALABAMA NCAAB SHARP STAKE (Alabama -13) 

I got no problem laying the 13-points with Alabama at home against the Bulldogs. The Crimson Tide are coming off a game where they failed to cover in a 81-78 win at South Carolina. However, they really should have covered. They led 78-70 with 3:37 to play and managed to score just 3 points the rest of the game. 

On the flip side of things, Georgia is coming off a very fortunate cover on the road against Tennessee. The Bulldogs trailed by 23 with just under 11 minutes to play in the game and wound up only losing by 8. I don't think they are going to be able to keep it close at all against Alabama. The Crimson Tide are just as good, if not better, defensively than the Vols and are way better on the offensive side of the ball. After the sloppy finish against South Carolina, which followed a loos at Missouri, I look for Alabama to really come out with one of their better performances. Give me the Crimson Tide -13! 

40* 76ERS/SUNS NBA VEGAS MASSACRE (Suns +1) 

I will gladly back the red-hot Suns as a home dog against the 76ers in Saturday's early matchup on the pro hardwood. I really like this Philadelphia team, but this is far from an ideal spot for the 76ers, who are playing their 3rd of 4 on their west coast trip. 

While Philadelphia's likely running on fumes at this point, the Suns are going to be extremely fresh. Not only has Phoenix had to deal with no travel of late, playing their 5th straight at home, they also will be playing here on a full 2 days of rest. Suns are also playing their best basketball of the season. They are 7-1 SU and 7-1 ATS over their last 8. Chris Paul and Devin Booker are really starting to gel together. Give me the Suns +1! 

40* IOWA/MICHIGAN ST NCAAB ATS ANNIHILATOR (Iowa -4.5) 

I will lay the short number on the road with the Hawkeyes against Michigan State. Iowa snapped out of it's recent funk with a convincing 79-66 home win over Rutgers. The Hawkeyes were in control of that game from the get go and it wasn't a huge surprise to see Iowa get back on track with the return of C.J. Fredrick. When he's on the court this is just a different team. 

I know the Hawkeyes failed to cover as a 9.5-point home favorite against the Spartans earlier this season, winning by just 6. However, they still put up 84 points and won the game despite a really off night from behind the 3-point line. They were just 5 of 17 (29.4%). This is a team that averages 10 made 3-pointers a game and is shooting 39% as a team from deep. 

Not only was Iowa off, Michigan State went 12 of 29 (41.4%) from deep. That's not normal for the Spartans, who only average 7 made 3's per game and are shooting just 33% as a team. I just think Iowa is the much better team and are playing with a sense of urgency after their recent 1-4 stretch. Give me the Hawkeyes -4.5! 

40* CLIPPERS/BULLS NBA VEGAS INSIDER (Clippers -6) 

I will gladly take a shot here with the Clippers now that this line has dropped down. LAC has been one of the better road teams in the league the last few years. Despite how often they are asked to lay big numbers, the Clippers have gone 31-16 ATS in their last 47 as a road favorite. They are 10-4 SU and 9-5 ATS away from home this season. 

I think we are getting value here due to the fact that they have failed to cover each of their last 3. As well as the fact that Chicago is coming off such an impressive 129-116 win at home over the Pelicans. Bulls shot a ridiculous 59.3% from the field in that game and hit a franchise record 25 3-pointers. 

I see that game as more of a fluke than anything. Chicago had gone just 2-6 SU in their previous 8 games and it's worth noting they were catching the Pelicans in the second game of a back-to-back. Bulls are just 1-12 ATS last 13 home games off a home win. Give me the Clippers -6! 

40* PELICANS/MAVS NBA on ESPN NO-BRAINER (Pelicans +3) 

I was just on the Mavs in their last game against Atlanta, which they won SU but couldn't cover as a 3.5-point favorite. It was an impressive win for the Mavs, who looked dead in the water in the 3rd quarter. It took some ridiculous shooting for them to win that game in the 4th and I just don't think it's sustainable. 

With how bad their defense is, its really bad, it's hard to trust this team against a Pelicans team that is really clicking on the offensive end. I don't think the Mavs will have any answer for Zion after watching John Collins score 33 against them on Wednesday. Note Collins scored 35 against them the week before. 

Pelicans are off a 116-129 loss at Chicago, but they shot 50.6% from the field. Chicago just couldn't miss. It was the 5th straight game that New Orleans hit at least 50% from the field. I just don't know that a tired Mavs team will be able to keep pace. Give me the Pelicans +3! 

40* WOLVES/HORNETS NBA ATS STEAMROLLER (Hornets -3.5) 

I just can't help myself here with Charlotte as a small home favorite against the Timberwolves. As obvious as this play might look to some, I do think we are getting a good price here because of the fact that Minnesota has gone 6-0-1 ATS in their last 7 games and just covered at home against LAC in the first game with Karl Anthony-Towns back in the mix.

Towns was decent in his first game back, but I wouldn't be surprised if he's a little more sluggish in his second game on the road with just 1 day between games. Aside from Towns and the T-Wolves recent ATS surge, I also think we are getting a good price with Charlotte given they are coming off an ugly 114-130 loss at Memphis. Hornets shot 55% from the field in the defeat and have scored 111 or more in 7 straight. 

Lastly, let's also not overlook the fact that the Timberwolves are a mere 2-11 SU on the road this season and are giving up 118.6 ppg on 49% shooting away from home. They also will be without one of their top scorers in D'Angelo Russell. Give me the Hornets -3.5! 

40* TULANE/UCF NCAAB ATS SLAUGHTER (Tulane +5.5) 

I like the points with Tulane as they hit the road against UCF on Friday. Some might see the fact that the Knights just played a really good game at home against Wichita State (lost 60-61) as a positive, but often times losing a close game like that is a lot harder to bounce back from than if you got your teeth kicked in. 

I just think for a team like UCF, who is 5-10 overall and 3-9 in the AAC, with no shot at making the NCAA Tournament, that only makes it that much harder to bounce back. As for Tulane, they just upset Tulsa 58-48 on the road Wednesday and have really been playing some of their better basketball here of late. This is not only a game they can keep close, but win outright. Give me the Green Wave +5.5! 

50* HEAT/ROCKETS NBA *BEST BET* TOP PLAY (Rockets +2.5) 

I will gladly back the Rockets as a home dog against the Heat. I know that Miami has won 3 straight, but this team has a long way to go before they can be treated like the team that made the NBA Finals last year. Those 3 wins were against the Knicks twice and the Wizards. Not to mention they barely beat New York in their two meetings with them and had lost two days earlier to Washington before winning the rematch. 

Houston has lost their last 3, but they haven't been full strength much at all here of late. They rested Wall and Gordon in the first of a back-to-back and Oladipo in the second game. Not having those guys combined with the injury to Wood put them in a horrible spot. All 3 of those guys should be in action here. Simply put, the Heat should not be a road favorite in this one. Give me the Rockets +2.5! 

40* PURDUE/MINNESOTA NCAAB VEGAS INSIDER (Minnesota -3.5) 

I will gladly take a shot here with Minnesota as a small home favorite against the Boilermakers. Some might be hesitant to back the Gophers given they lost by 19 (62-81) at Purdue roughly two weeks ago. Thing is, Minnesota is just a different team at home than they are on the road. Gophers are 12-1 SU and 10-3 ATS at home compared to 0-6 SU and 1-5 ATS on the road. 

You also have to love how head coach Richard Pitino has got his team to respond when revenging a blowout loss to an opponent. As a head coach, Pitino's teams are 21-9 ATS at home when revenging a loss of 10 or more points. Gophers are also a dominant 20-9 ATS in their last 29 at home against a team with a winning record. Give me Minnesota -3.5! 

40* LSU/MISS STATE NCAAB ATS SLAUGHTER (LSU +2.5) 

I think we are getting big time value here with LSU as a dog against the Bulldogs. The Tigers had started out 10-2 before going just 1-4 over their last 5 games. It might seem like LSU isn't playing well, but in reality the schedule has been brutal. Two of the 4 losses were to the best team in the SEC in Alabama, they also lost at Kentucky and a heartbreaker at home to Texas Tech in the SEC/Big 12 challenge. 

I look for LSU to get back on track in a big way here against Mississippi State who is just 2-4 in their last 6 games and those 2 wins have come against ISU and South Carolina. Bulldogs figure to have a hard time keeping up offensively with the Tigers in this one, especially given LSU is almost a sure-in to win the turnover battle. Tigers are No.1 in the SEC in offensive TO%, while Mississippi State is No. 13 in defensive TO%. Give me LSU +2.5! 

40* HAWKS/MAVERICKS NBA VEGAS INSIDER (Mavs -3.5) 

I'm going to take the Dallas Mavericks -3.5 at home against the Atlanta Hawks. I just can't help myself here with the Mavs at this price. While Dallas has won 3 of 4 since enduring that 6-game losing streak, they have failed to cover each of their last 3 and are just 1-9 ATS over their last 10 games. I strongly believe that this recent stretch of failed covers is playing into a very favorable line with Dallas at home. 

Their only cover during this stretch was last week's 122-116 win at Atlanta. Note that the Mavs were a 2-point road favorite in that matchup, which means they should be closer to a 5.5-6-point home favorite against the Hawks. 

Another thing to note from that recent meeting is Dallas was able to win by 6 on the road, despite the fact that the Hawks shot 50% from the field and were 14 of 38 from deep. The Mavs won that game at the free throw line and with a +6 edge in turnovers. 

I think now that they have got everyone back and into the mix of things, this is an even stronger Mavs team than the one that won in Atlanta. It's also not like the Hawks are playing great basketball. They come in off a win at home over the Raptors, but had lost 3 straight prior and caught Toronto coming off a huge game against the Nets the night before. Simply put I think Atlanta is getting way too much respect here. Give me the Mavs -3.5! 

40* RUTGERS/IOWA NCAAB SHARP STAKE (Iowa -6)

I'm going to take the Iowa Hawkeyes -6 at home against the Rutgers Scarlet Knights. Most are going to want nothing to do with Iowa in this one, as they are just 1-4 SU and 0-5 ATS in their last 5 games. I think it has Iowa showing some decent value here. Note that in 4 of their last 5 home games they have been a favorite of 9.5 or more. Not to mention they already went on the road and beat Rutgers earlier this season. 

It's been a combination of a lot of things that has played into the Hawkeyes recent slump. They aren't shooting the ball quite as well from deep, especially in the 2nd half of games, the defense has been sloppy at times and they just haven't closed games out. In almost all of these losses Iowa has had a big lead and let it slip away. 

I just think with their backs against the wall, we are going to see them deliver in a big way at home against the Scarlet Knights. Rutgers has won 4 straight after losing 5 in a row, but none of those wins have come against a top tier team in the Big Ten.

This is also a Scarlet Knights team that has had a much harder time scoring on the road.They are averaging 72.6 ppg on the season and yet just 65.3 on the road. They also are shooting 46.5% from the field on the season, but only 43.8% on the road. You have to be able to score to keep it close against the Hawkeyes and I just don't think Rutgers will have the fire-power to do that. Give me Iowa -6! 

50* VIRGINIA/GA TECH NCAAB *BEST BET* TOP PLAY (Georgia Tech +4.5) 

I really like the Yellow Jackets here as a home dog against Virginia. Georgia Tech is just 2-3 in their last 5 games, but have been playing better than that record would lead you to believe. They had two games they could have easily won on the road against Virginia and Duke. They ended up losing 62-64 to the Cavaliers, despite leading by double-digits in the 2nd half. 

I will take the points in the rematch, but I'm confident the Yellow Jackets win this game outright. Virginia is 4-1 in true road games, but only one of those road wins was against a team that ranks in the Top 50 at KenPom. The loss was by 14 at Va Tech. Even in their last two wins they haven't been all that impressive, beating NC State by just 7 on the road and Pitt by 7 at home. 

Cavaliers are just 9-19 ATS over the last 2 seasons vs a team with a winning record. Georgia Tech on the other hand is 9-2 ATS last 11 when playing a team that's won more than 80% of their games. Yellow Jackets are also 47-28 ATS last 75 as a home dog of 6 or less and 9-2 ATS in their last 11 after failing to cover 2 of their last 3. Give me Georgia Tech +4.5! 

50* ST. JOHN'S/BUTLER *BIG EAST PLAY OF THE MONTH* (St. John's +1) 

I love the value here with St. John's as a dog against the Bulldogs on Tuesday. The Red Storm are the hottest team in the Big East right now, as they come in having won 6 straight with 4 of those 6 wins coming on the road, including a 92-81 victory at Providence on Saturday. 

Butler is coming off a 68-58 win at home against DePaul, but that's nothing to get excited about given how bad the Blue Demons have been in conference play (1-8). Butler just doesn't do much that gets you excited. Their offense is anemic and the defense isn't a whole lot better. These two already played once and St. Johns won by 12 despite shooting just 45% from the field. No way should the Red Storm be a dog here. Give me St. John's +1! 

40* KNICKS/HEAT NBA ATS NO-BRAINER (Heat -5.5) 

We cashed on the Heat -5.5 at New York on Sunday, as Miami did just enough to secure a cover in a 109-103 win. That's now back-to-back wins and covers for the Heat after a brutal stretch where they went just 1-7 SU and 1-7 ATS over 8 games. Key here is Miami has got back their best player in Jimmy Butler and while they aren't full strength, they are as healthy as they have been.

Heat also are in a position where they have to keep fighting for every win, as they got a lot of ground to make up with a record of 9-14. Simply put, they can't afford a loss here at home to a mediocre Knicks team and it's a big deal that they are switching venues, as it's not been factored into the line at all as we are getting Miami at the same price as we just got them on the road. Give me the Heat -5.5! 

40* ALABAMA/S CAROLINA NCAAB VEGAS INSIDER (Alabama -6) 

I got no problem laying 6-points on the road with Alabama. This is a huge bounce back game for the Crimson Tide after suffering their first conference loss of the season in Saturday's 65-68 loss at Missouri. Alabama couldn't have shot any worse (33.3%) and yet they still almost found a way to win on the road against one of the better teams in the SEC. 

I definitely don't think they will have any problem getting their offense back on track against the Gamecocks, who are one of the worst teams in the SEC in almost all of the major defensive categories. You also just have to look at common opponents to see how big an edge the Tide have here. Alabama is 5-1 outscoring common opponents by 12 ppg (84.8 to 72.8). Gamecocks are 1-4 against common opponents and getting outscored by 8.8 ppg (73.4 to 83.2). 

Tide are 8-1 ATS last 2 seasons off a loss by 6 or less and a perfect 7-0 ATS when coming off a loss by 3 or fewer. Give me the Crimson Tide -6! 

40* WIZARDS/BULLS NBA VEGAS INSIDER (Bulls -2.5)

I'll back Chicago as a slim 2.5-point home favorite against the Wizards. The Bulls will be without a few key players in Lauri Markkanen, Otto Porter and Wendell Carter, but this Chicago team is filled with a bunch of above average role players. They still got plenty at their disposal to take out a bad team like Washington. Wizards are just 5-15 overall and 3-8 on the road. 

The books were way off with their number in their last game, listing the Wizards as a 1.5-point road favorite. A game they lost 97-119. Now they are another near pick'em on the road in a bad spot, playing their 4th straight on the road and on no rest. Give me the Bulls -2.5! 

50* RAPTORS/GRIZZLIES NBA *BEST BET* TOP PLAY (Raptors -2) 

I love the Raptors here at basically a pick'em on the road against the Grizzlies. Memphis was playing really well for awhile, but they have cooled back off with 3 straight losses. Toronto to me feels like they are about to make their push after sleepwalking through the first 1/4 of the season. Raptors did lose last time out at Atlanta, but that was in a huge flat spot after their big win over the Nets. I look for Toronto to return to their winning form here and wouldn't be shocked if they won here going away. Give me the Raptors -2! 

40* TEMPLE/WICHITA ST NCAAB VEGAS INSIDER (Wichita State -8.5)

I will lay the 8.5-points at home with Wichita State against the Owls. The Shockers have been a team I have been on a decent amount. Not a lot of people talk about this team, despite the fact that they are 10-4 with their only 4 losses coming to Missouri, Oklahoma St, Houston and Memphis. All of which are ranked in the Top 50 at KenPom. 

I was on the Owls in their last game at home against Cincinnati and they somehow lost to a depleted Bearcats team that hadn't played and barely practiced in almost a month. The Owls shot a miserable 39.6% from the field and were once again sloppy with the ball with 19 turnovers, including several bad turnovers down the stretch with the game on the line. 

You could see how devastated Temple was after losing that game and I just have a hard time seeing them showing up for this game on Super Bowl Sunday. Not to mention we have a Temple offense that ranks 9th in offensive efficiency facing a Wichita State defense that is No. 4. On the flip side the Shockers have the No. 2 most efficient offense in the ACC vs the No. 9 Temple defense. The Owls were a 12-point road dog to SMU and 17-point road dog to Houston. Give me the Shockers -8.5! 

40* HEAT/KNICKS NBA ATS SLAUGHTER (Heat -5.5)

I'll take my chances here with Miami as a 5.5-point road favorite at New York on Sunday. The Heat have been one of the biggest disappointments in the league. After a surprise run to the NBA Finals in the bubble, Miami is sitting with a record of just 8-14. Only the Wizards, Pistons and Timberwolves have fewer wins. 

It's not just bad play. Injuries and players constantly being out because of covid have played the biggest role in the Heat's slow start. While they won't have Goran Dragic for this one, they got the majority of their core available and are coming off one of their best showings of the season in Friday's 122-95 win over the Wizards. 

The Knicks come in having won 2 straight, but the first was against the Bulls in a rematch after Chicago had beat them two nights earlier. The other was yesterday's easy win over a depleted Blazers team. I just think playing on no rest against a hungry Heat team is the perfect recipe for a Miami cover. Give me the Heat -5.5! 

40* WARRIORS/MAVS NBA STEAMROLLER (Mavs -4) 

I really like the Mavs as a slim 4-point home favorite against the Warriors on Saturday. Big time revenge game here for Dallas after losing 116-147 at home to Golden State on Thursday. Big thing to note about that loss is the Mavs were playing on no rest after a road win at Atlanta on Wednesday. 

There's also not a lot they could do with how well the Warriors shot the ball in that last game. Golden State hit 57.3% of their shot attempts and were 22 of 43 (51.2%) from behind the 3-point line. Look for some big regression from the Warriors and for Dallas to bounce back in a big way after they only shot 41.3% from the field. Give me the Mavs -4! 

40* SPURS/ROCKETS NBA NO-BRAINER (Rockets -1.5) 

I just can't help myself here with the Rockets as a mere 1.5-point home favorite against the Spurs. Houston is a team on the rise right now. The Rockets come in having won 7 of their last 8 games. Their only loss came at OKC two nights after they absolutely destroyed the Thunder on the road. 

While Houston is surging, the Spurs have really not been playing well. San Antonio did win their last game at home against the Timberwolves, but only by 3 as a 7.5-point favorite. Prior to that they lost back-to-back at home to Memphis by 17 and 31 points. Spurs are playing right now without one of their best players in LaMarcus Aldridge. They also will be without starting guard Lonnie Walker and starting point guard Dejounte Murray is questionable. Give me the Rockets -1.5!

40* NOTRE DAME/GEORGIA TECH NCAAB SHARP STAKE (Georgia Tech -4.5) 

I really like the Yellow Jackets as a small 4.5-point home favorite against Notre Dame. I think we are getting an absolute steal here with Georgia Tech at this price. The Yellow Jackets have lost 3 of their last 4, but those 3 losses all came on the road to good teams in Virginia, Duke and Louisville. 

Georgia Tech has won 7 straight at home and are a perfect 4-0 at home in ACC play with all 4 wins coming by at least 5 points. Notre Dame comes in having won 4 of their last 5, but those 4 wins have come against BC, Miami, Pitt and Wake Forest. Those are their only 4 wins in ACC play. Give me Georgia Tech -4.5! 

50* N CAROLINA/DUKE NCAAB *BEST BET* TOP PLAY (Duke -3) 

I love the value here with Duke as a mere 3-point home favorite against North Carolina. I know the Blue Devils are coming off an ugly loss at Miami on Monday, but I really think this team is headed in the right direction and are going to make easy work of the Tar Heels in this one. 

North Carolina is simply getting way too much respect right now because they have won 6 of their last 8, but it's not so much a result of how well they are playing but more so the schedule. I know it's not as difficult playing at Duke this year as others with no fans, but I just think the price is too good to pass up. Give me the Blue Devils -3! 

40* UCF/TULSA NCAAB VEGAS INSIDER (Tulsa -4.5) 

I got no problem laying the 4.5-points at home with Tulsa against the Knights. This is a good time to buy low on the Golden Hurricane as they come in having lost 4 of their last 6. Thing is 3 of those losses came on the road, while the lone loss at home was to a good SMU team by just 2-points. 

As for UCF, they have really been struggling. The Knights have lost 3 straight and 8 of 9 overall. Their only win during this stretch coming at home against ECU. UCF has lost 6 straight on the road and will be playing their 4th straight road game here. Give me Tulsa -4.5! 

40* OLE MISS/AUBURN NCAAB ATS SLAUGHTER (Auburn -5)

I really like the spot and price we are catching with Auburn at home against Ole Miss on Saturday. This is a huge bounce back game for the Tigers, who after a hard fought loss at Baylor, laid an egg two days later at home to Georgia. Prior to those two setbacks Auburn had really been playing well behind the emergence of freshman point guard Sharife Cooper. 

While the Tigers are poised for a turnaround, this is a big letdown spot for the Rebels who are coming off a big 52-50 upset win over Tennessee on Tuesday. Ole Miss has also lost 5 of their last 6 on the road. Give me Auburn -5! 

50* SYRACUSE/CLEMSON NCAAB *BEST BET* TOP PLAY (Clemson -3) 

This is just too good a price to pass up with Clemson at home. We cashed an easy 50* Top Play on the Tigers in Tuesday's 63-50 win at home against North Carolina. Clemson did lose at Duke the previous game, but before that beat Louisville at home 54-50. Tigers are 7-1 SU at home with their only loss coming at the hands of Virginia. 

Syracuse has won 3 of their last 4, but all 3 wins came at home, while the lone loss was on the road. That's kind of been the theme for the Orange this season, as they are 9-1 at home compared to just 1-4 on the road. Big reason they struggle on the road is their defense, which is giving up 80 ppg. With how good Clemson is defensively, if they let the Tigers score anywhere close to that this thing is going to get out of hand. Give me Clemson -3! 

40* BOISE ST/NEVADA NCAAB VEGAS INSIDER (Boise St -4) 

I got no problem laying 4-points on the road with Boise State. Now I just played against the Broncos in their recent 2-game road trip at Colorado State, but that's an underrated Rams team and it was the first time the Broncos had been tested in a while. I'm not as bullish on this Nevada team. 

The Wolf Pack are 7-5 in MWC play, but those 7 wins have all come against teams who have losing records in conference play. I just feel that Nevada is completely outclassed here. The Wolf Pack usually exploit teams at the free throw line, but I don't think that will be the case here. Without that edge I don't know how Nevada keeps this close as the Broncos are better on both side of the ball. Give me Boise State -4! 

50* BULLS/MAGIC NBA *BEST BET* TOP PLAY (Bulls -2) 

I will gladly lay a mere 2-points on the road with Chicago against a Magic team that has completely fallen off here of late. Orlando comes in having lost 4 straight with all 4 losses coming by at least 13 points. They are just 2-12 SU and 3-11 ATS over their last 14 games.

The Bulls are 1-4 SU and 1-5 ATS in their last 5, but I still like what I've seen out of this Chicago team. With all the injuries the Magic are dealing with combined with their recent form, I feel like this number should be 3-4 points more than what it is. 

Keep in mind the Bulls have been a great bet away from the United Center as they are 8-2 ATS in their 10 road games. Magic are just 4-7 ATS at home and 3-15 ATS over the last 2 seasons as a home dog. Give me Chicago -2! 

40* NUGGETS/LAKERS NBA LATE NIGHT BAILOUT (Nuggets +5)

Most are going to see the Lakers as a mere 5-point home favorite and run to place a bet on LA in this one. I'm going the other way here. After a slow start to the season the Nuggets have really come to life over the last couple of weeks. Denver is both 6-1 SU and 6-1 ATS in their last 7 games. 

There's zero doubt that we are going to get a max effort here from the Nuggets, as this is their first game against the Lakers since they got knocked out of the playoffs by LA in the Western Conference Finals last year. Denver is 100% going to see this game as a measuring stick game to see where they are. 

As for the Lakers, I think they could have a hard time getting up for this game. While LA has had the last 2 days off, there's a good chance they are still feeling the effects of that long 7-game east coast road trip they were just on. It's a spot they haven't performed well in, as they are 0-4 ATS last 4 times playing at home after a road trip of 7 or more days. They are also just 1-4 ATS last 5 at home, while Denver is 7-3 SU on the road. 

Another thing to note is that these two will turn around and play each other again in LA on Saturday, which I think only adds to the likelihood of the Lakers not showing up with their best effort in this one. Give me the Nuggets +5! 

50* CINCINNATI/TEMPLE AAC PLAY OF THE MONTH (Temple +2) 

I think the fact that the Owls most recent outcome is a 64-81 home loss to Tulane as a 7.5-point favorite has them showing some big time value here as a 2-point home dog to a Cincinnati team that has no business laying points on the road in this spot. 

The Bearcats are just 3-7 overall and 1-4 in AAC play, but even more important here is the fact that Cincinnati will be playing their first game in almost a month. The last time the Bearcats played was on Jan. 10. It's not like they have been using all this time to practice an improve. Even with walk-ons they haven't had enough guys to go 5 on 5. Speaking of Walk-ons, word is they are going to be so short-handed for this game that some of them will have to play. 

While the Owls have only played 9 games because of Covid, they been back in the swing of things for weeks now and had won 3 of 4 before that ugly showing against the Green Wave. Coming off a bad loss has been a good time to back Temple, as they are 24-11 ATS last 35 off a home loss by 10 or more. Give me the Owls +2! 

40* CELTICS/KINGS NBA ATS SLAUGHTER (Kings +2)

We played against the Celtics last night and lost, as Boston was able to squeak out a 111-107 win at Golden State, just barely covering as a 2.5-point favorite. I'm not going to let that result keep me from fading the Celtics again tonight. 

Boston is playing without the heart and soul of their team in Marcus Smart and after their big 3 of Kemba Walker, Jayson Tatum and Jalen Brown all played big minutes last night, this is the ultimate flat spot here for the Celtics in what is now their second game on their 5-game west coast trip. Also, you have Boston in a big sandwich spot coming off that prime time game on TNT against the Warriors with another nationally televised game on deck against the Clippers on ESPN Friday. Give me the Kings +2! 

40* KNICKS/BULLS NBA ATS NO-BRAINER (Bulls -3.5) 

I'm going to take the Chicago Bulls -3.5 at home against the New York Knicks. These two teams just played each other on Monday, which the Bulls won 110-102 as a 3.5-point home favorite. I know that came was really close before Chicago pulled away late for the cover, but I can't help myself but take a shot with the Bulls at the same price on Wednesday. 

You might be thinking New York will be the more motivated team having lost the first meeting, but the numbers suggest it's a bad move to back the Knicks because of revenge. Home teams that won the first meeting of these home and home series are 13-1 SU and 12-2 ATS the last 14 times it's come up. 

I know the overall records are almost the same with the Knicks sitting at 9-13 and the Bulls at 8-11, but I don't think there's any question that Chicago is the more talented of the two teams. More than half of the Bulls 11 losses this season have come by 4 or fewer points. In comparison, just 2 of the Knicks 13 losses have been by 4 or fewer. 

Also a lot of the Bulls struggles have come against some of the better teams in the league. Chicago is 9-3 ATS last 12 games vs a team with a losing record and a perfect 6-0 ATS last 6 at home vs a team with a losing road record. Give me the Bulls -3.5! 

40* KENTUCKY/MISSOURI NCAAB VEGAS INSIDER (Kentucky +4) 

I'm going to take the Kentucky Wildcats -4 on the road against the Missouri Tigers. I really like this spot for Kentucky, who were a pissed off bunch after Saturday's game against Texas was called off because of Covid concerns. The important thing to note is that it wasn't a player related problem. They had a staff member that tested positive. No players are going to be missing this game against Missouri because of Covid. 

Because their game against Texas was called off Kentucky will be coming into this game against Missouri with some fresh legs, as they will have a full 8 days off since they last took the court at Alabama.

They should be able to use those fresh legs to their advantage, as Missouri will be coming into this game on just 3 days of rest after a grueling 102-98 OT win at home against TCU, where they spent the majority of that game playing from behind. 

I also like how the Wildcats matchup with Missouri. The Tigers are an awful 3-point shooting team and really need to score inside to get their offense going. That plays right into the strength of Kentucky's defense, which is No. 2 in the SEC in 2P% defense. Missouri has a good defense, but they really struggle with fouling. They are dead last in the SEC in opponents free throw rate. That's huge for a Wildcats team that doesn't exactly shoot the ball well from the field, but is No. 1 as a team in the conference at 76.6% from the free throw line. 

I know the wins haven't been stacking up like we normally see with a Kentucky team, but the Wildcats always seem to find their groove in February and March and while they are just 1-4 in their last 5 there's been a lot of positives for this team. I really like them to win this game outright, but will take the 4-points as a little added insurance. Give me the Wildcats +4! 

50* LSU/ALABAMA NCAAB *BEST BET* TOP PLAY (Alabama -8.5) 

I got no problem laying the 8.5-points at home with the Crimson Tide. A lot of people might be hesitant to lay this many points against a decent LSU team, but I just love the spot and the matchup for the Tigers. 

Alabama will be 100% locked in for this game after a 61-66 loss at Oklahoma on Saturday. That setback snapped the Crimson Tide's 10-game win streak. This is also a team that is really focused about closing out the season strong after struggling in February over recent years. 

The Tide are 8-1 at home where they are winning by almost 14 points/game. They are 9-0 in SEC play with an average margin of victory of 16.1. Their only win at home in conference play by fewer than double-digits was a 8-point victory against Mississippi State. 

LSU is a great offensive team, but are not very good defensively. Alabama is great on both sides and it's why they beat the Tigers 105-75 on the road back on Jan. 19th. I just don't think LSU's defense will be able to make enough stops to keep this close. Give me the Crimson Tide -8.5! 

40* CELTICS/WARRIORS NBA TNT SHARP STAKE (Warriors +2.5) 

I will take my chances here with the Warriors as a small 2.5-point home dog against the Celtics in Tuesday's TNT showdown. Both teams are down a key player with Boston having lost guard Marcus Smart and Golden State playing without rookie big man James Wiseman. 

While both are big losses, I think the loss of Smart is really a big blow to the Celtics, especially in this game where they could really use his defense on Steph Curry. If you look back in the past, Curry has used and abused Boston's Kemba Walker.  Not to mention Curry is starting to find his groove and we know the Warriors will be up for this game. 

I do have some concerns here with the Celtics mindset coming off that devastating home loss to the Lakers on Saturday. That was such a huge game there's going to be a letdown after that matchup. Add in the lengthy road trip to the west coast and I just think the Celtics could be sleepwalking through the first couple quarters. Give me the Warriors +2.5! 

40* USC/STANFORD NCAAB LATE NIGHT BAILOUT (Stanford +2.5)

I really like the value here with Stanford as a home dog against USC. The Cardinal could once again be without Bryce Wills, Ziaire Williams and Daejon Davis (all 3 are questionable), but I actually think that's playing into the value here. Stanford has shown they can compete at a high level without these guys and a big reason for that is they still got one of the best players not just in the Pac-12 but the country in Oscar da Silva. 

Not only is Stanford going to be jacked up for a home game against one of the top teams in the Pac-12 in USC, but this will also be the first game for the Cardinal this season on their home floor at the Maples Pavilion. 

The other big thing for me, is I just don't think USC is all they are made out to be. They are good team, but they have also played the easiest conference schedule of any team to this point. Their last 5 games have come against Washington, Washington State, Cal and Oregon State (twice). This is the first real test they have had in over 3 weeks. I just don't think they should be favored here. Give me Stanford +2.5! 

50* UNC/CLEMSON ACC GAME OF THE MONTH (Clemson +3) 

I love the value here with Clemson as a home dog against the Tar Heels. It's been a rough go for the Tigers after their impressive 9-1 start, as they have lost 4 of their last 5 and are now just 4-5 in ACC play. Thing is the schedule has been brutal of late. In their recent 1-4 stretch, 3 of those losses came on the road to Georgia Tech, FSU and Duke. The only loss at home was to the ACC's best team in Virginia. They did manage to beat Louisville at home in their only win and I expect them to win here. 

North Carolina has won 6 of their last 7 games and it has them way overvalued. It's a great stretch, but it's also come against a soft schedule. The Tar Heels 6 wins during this stretch have come against Notre Dame, Miami, Syracuse, Wake Forest, NC State and Pitt. The Orange are the only one of those teams ranked in the Top 50 at KenPom. 

The other big thing here is this is a brutal spot for UNC playing on the road against a desperate team with a massive game against Duke looming on Saturday. With how well it's been going for the Tar Heels it will only make it that much easier for them to look past the Tigers. Give me Clemson +3! 

40* GRIZZLIES/SPURS NBA ATS NO-BRAINER (Spurs -3.5) 

I will gladly take my chances here with the Spurs as a small 3.5-point favorite against the Grizzlies. These two teams just played each other in San Antonio on Saturday and Memphis won that game 129-112 as a 3.5-point dog. It was the Grizzlies 6th straight win. 

It's just not easy beating the same team twice in a row, especially on the road. Spurs are also a team that has a history of bouncing back from a loss to an opponent. San Antonio is 29-17 ATS last 2 seasons when revenging a loss and 40-15 ATS in the last 3 seasons when revenging a loss where they gave up 110 or more points. Memphis is also a mere 9-24 ATS in their last 33 when they come in having won 6 or more games in a row. Give me the Spurs -3.5! 

40* UCF/MEMPHIS NCAAB VEGAS INSIDER (Memphis -8.5) 

I'll take my chances here with Memphis laying 8.5-points at home against UCF. Not only is this a play on the Tigers, who I think are playing some of their best basketball of the season, but it's just as big a play against the Knights. 

Memphis did have their 3-game losing streak in a heartbreaking 2-point loss at SMU last Thursday, but did manage to cover the spread for a 4th straight game. The Tigers defense has really picked it up. Memphis is allowing just 61.1 ppg on 38.5% shooting in American Athletic play. 

As for UCF, this is just a brutal spot playing on just 1 day of rest after a grueling OT loss at Wichita State on Saturday. That's a game the Knights would love to have back, as they blew a 8-point lead in the final 4 minutes of regulation and then another 5-point lead in OT. 

I just don't know that the Knights can play any better than they did at Wichita State. UCF shot a season best 57.4% from the field in that game. That was only the 2nd time all season they shot better than 46%. I could see that shooting percentage plummeting here with what has to be tired legs and a great Memphis defense. Give me the Tigers -8.5! 

50* JAZZ/NUGGETS NBA *BEST BET* TOP PLAY (Nuggets -1) 

 I will gladly lay the -1 with the Nuggets at home against the Jazz. Most will avoid betting against Utah given they have won and covered 11 straight games, but if you take a closer look at the schedule for the Jazz they have really been beating up on a bunch of bad teams or teams not playing up to their potential. 

One of those wins was on the road against Denver, but Utah only managed to win that game 109-105 despite them shooting 51.3% from the field and the Nuggets only shooting 40.0% Denver outrebounded Utah 63-50 and were +4 in the turnover department. Since that loss the Nuggets have gone 5-1 SU and 5-1 ATS with the only loss coming in the final game of a 5-game road trip. Give me the Nuggets -1! 

40* SUNS/MAVS NBA ATS SLAUGHTER (Mavs -2)

A lot of people might be hesitant to back Dallas even as a small 2-point home favorite against the Suns, as the Mavs come in having lost 4 straight, including back-to-back blowout losses at Utah. They also will be on no rest, but because last night's game wasn't close against the Jazz, they were able to limit the minutes of their starters. 

The Suns are also the perfect team to get right against. Phoenix is just 2-5 in their last 7 games and are expected to once again be without their best player in Devin Booker. I just think Booker's absence is much bigger than this line would suggest and I'm expecting a very motivated and inspired effort here from Dallas. Give me the Mavs -2! 

40* LAKERS/CELTICS NBA ATS NO-BRAINER (Lakers -1.5) 

I don't play the Lakers a ton because the line is almost always inflated with them, but I will gladly back LA at basically a pick'em on the road against the Celtics. A big reason for that is we can bank on a big time effort from the Lakers coming off back-to-back losses. LA doesn't take losing lightly and are going to be a pissed off bunch after an embarrassing 15-point loss to an awful Detroit team on Thursday. 

Boston is a good team and has been playing well of late, but are simply outclassed and more than anything catching the Lakers at the wrong time. LeBron and AD will be ready to go in prime time and I wouldn't be surprised if this got ugly. Give me the Lakers -1.5! 

50* BLAZERS/BULLS NBA *BEST BET* TOP PLAY (Bulls -2)

I will gladly back Chicago as a small 2-point home favorite against the Blazers. The Bulls have lost their last two games and failed to cover both after an incredible 11-2 ATS run in their previous 13 games. This feels like the perfect spot to jump back on Chicago, as they are not only going to be motivated to get back in the win column, but they are going to have extremely fresh legs after a 4-day break. 

As for the Blazers they are playing their 2nd road game in 3 days and are missing a bunch of key players right now. Portland will be without CJ McCollum and Jusuf Nurkic. They are also still without Zach Collins and Robert Covington is questionable. Portland is simply getting too much respect on the road in this one. Give me the Bulls -2! 

40* AUBURN/BAYLOR NCAAB VEGAS INSIDER (Auburn +14.5) 

I don't have high hopes for the SEC in Saturday's SEC/Big 12 showdown, but I can't pass up with the value we are getting with Auburn as a 14.5-point dog against Baylor. The Bears are one of the best teams in the country, but this is a huge number to be laying against a surging Tigers team that has found new life behind star freshman point guard Sharife Cooper. He's played 6 games since getting cleared to play and has been unbelievable, averaging 22.3 ppg, 8.7 apg and 5.0 rpg. 

Auburn is 4-2 in the 6 games he's played and the 2 losses have been by a mere 4-points at home to Alabama (by far the best team in the SEC) and a 2-point loss at Arkansas. I believe he's going to be the difference in the Tigers keeping this within the number. I also feel like this game means more to the Tigers than it does the Bears. Give me Auburn +14.5! 

40* ARKANSAS/OKLAHOMA ST NCAAB SHARP STAKE (Oklahoma St -2) 

I just can't pass up on Oklahoma State as a mere 2-point home favorite against the Razorbacks. While the Cowboys are just 4-4 and probably the 7th best team in the Big 12, they would be one of the best teams in the SEC.

Arkansas is just 5-4 in SEC play and has not fared all that well on the road. The thing is the Razorbacks are 13-4 overall and that has them way overvalued in this one. What people overlook with their great record is the played the 300th toughest non-conference slate and have not delivered against any of the top teams in the SEC. Give me the Cowboys -2! 

40* UCF/WICHITA ST NCAAB ATS STEAMROLLER (Wichita St -5.5) 

The Shockers are worth a look here as a mere 5.5-point home favorite against UCF. A lot of people threw Wichita State under the bus early in the year when they lost their head coach, but there's lot of talent still on this roster. Wichita State has won 7 of their last 10 with the only two losses coming on the road to two of the better teams in the AAC in Houston and Memphis. 

UCF had that shocking 3-1 start to the season where they beat Auburn, Florida St and Cincinnati, but are just 1-5 in their last 6. The Knights have also not had much success of late against Wichita State. The Shockers have won all 5 meetings between the two programs with each of the last 3 and 4 of the 5 overall by at least 8 points. Give me Wichita State -5.5! 

50* TEXAS TECH/LSU NCAAB *BEST BET* TOP PLAY (Texas Tech -3.5) 

I love the Red Raiders here as a small road favorite against LSU. I've played the Tigers a decent amount this year, but this is not a matchup that favors them at all. LSU wants to outscore teams and that just doesn't work against a team like Texas Tech. The Tigers simply won't be able to go score for score with a team like the Red Raiders who are such a force defensively. 

We have seen what happens here of late when LSU faces a decent defensive team in SEC play, as they got annihilated 105-75 at home by Alabama and 82-69 at Kentucky. I just look for Texas Tech to take control of this game right away and never look back. Give me the Red Raiders -3.5! 

50* CLIPPERS/MAGIC NBA *BEST BET* TOP PLAY (Magic -3.5) 

I'll gladly take my chances here with the Magic as a 3.5-point home favorite against the Clippers tonight. LA was able to win at Miami last night without George or Leonard and that will entice a lot of square bettors to back them here as a road dog against a mediocre Orlando team. 

I see it the exact opposite. With their two starts both still out, this has flat spot written all over it for the Clippers playing a bad team on no rest in what will be their 3rd road game in 4 nights. Not to mention LA had to use up a ton of energy in their win against the Heat as they trailed by as many as 18 in that game. I'm confident Orlando will show up at home and that should be more than enough to get the dub and cover. Give me the Magic -3.5! 

40* PACERS/HORNETS NBA ATS STEAMROLLER (Hornets +3.5) 

We backed Charlotte at basically the same price on Wednesday and came up short, as the Pacers won 116-106. It's not going to stop me from backing the Hornets again in the rematch. If anything I like them even more in this rematch spot, as they are going to be the more motivated team here. 

This is also a bit of a flat spot for the Pacers, as they just beat Charlotte a couple days ago and have a massive home game on deck Sunday against East leader Philadelphia. Not to mention I don't think Indiana can expect to get another 28 off the bench from Doug McDermott (only 3rd time all season he's scored more than 20) and a triple-double from Sabonis. Give me the Hornets +3.5!  

40* NORTH TEXAS/RICE NCAAB VEGAS INSIDER (North Texas -7) 

I'm sticking with my bet on North Texas -7 (gave out as a free pick yesterday) and actually going to throw a little more on it. I just feel that this North Texas team is flying a bit under the radar right now. They went just 4-4 in non-conference play, but there was no shame in that as the 4 losses came against Arkansas, Mississippi State, West Virginia and Loyola-Chicago. All 4 of which came on the road.

They have started out 3-1 in C-USA action with the only loss coming on no rest in a back-to-back situation against UTSA after they had beat the Roadrunners the night before. 

The Owls had started out 4-1 in league play, but have since lost 3 straight and part of their struggles of late has to do with the absence of sophomore Travis Evee, who is out because of Covid. There's also a chance they could be without senior Cavit Ege Havsa. If he can't go the Owls would be down their top two options at the point guard position. 

Another key factor in this matchup is rest. North Texas hasn't played since Jan. 16th, where Rice will be playing their 3rd game in a 7 day stretch. 

Offensively there's not a lot that separates these two teams, but North Texas is by far the better defensive team. The Mean Green rank 2nd in C-USA in defensive efficiency, while Rice is 13th. I believe the absence of Evee and the edge defensively should be more than enough for North Texas to cover here. 

Mean Green are 26-13 ATS over the last 2 seasons and have covered 18 of their last 25 as a favorite. They are also 14-5 against teams like Rice who attempt 21+ 3-pointers/game and 12-3 ATS last 15 vs team like the Owls that average 18 or fewer free throws/game. Give me North Texas -7!