Central Florida +4.5

            In the American Conference Memphis travels down to Florida to take on a Central Florida team they've had great success against since entering the conference. Yet this Memphis team has a style of play that bodes to the success of Central Florida. Central Florida has not only the ability to run with the Tigers but also can outshoot them from the perimeter. Grab the points with Central Florida tonight.

Wisconsin Green Bay -5.5

            Sometimes it's not the opponent but the timing of a matchup. In the horizon conference I believe that is the case with Detroit tonight. They've now faced strong offensive teams in Oakland and Wisc-Milwaukee and fought in both matchups for a four point loss and a five point loss. While the value may seem on them tonight I believe it's on Green Bay who is a relentless scoring offensive team. Pace may finally catch up to Detroit. Look for a tired Detroit team and value on GB tonight.

Duke +3.5

            Remember in the college football season when Alabama was an underdog to Georgia after a loss to Ole Miss? Duke lost three straight games and appeared to be ready for their fourth with a 7-point deficit to NC State. Yet they bounced back with a resounding 17 point differential in the second half over the Wolfpack. Miami is about as over rated a top 25 team I've seen since Texas 3-4 years back. This is a great spot to get underdog points from a Duke team that should reascend itself in a quick hurry.

Furman -6

            VMI looks to showcase ATS value after a few horrific losses over the past few weeks. One was against Furman which completely picked apart VMI on both ends of the floor. I don't see that changing today even on the road as VMI's defense is too susceptible. Furman has solid enough guard/forward play to score at will and get their second double-digit win against VMI.

Utah -4

            Utah has been a bit of a disappointment from where they were a season ago. Yet there is still time for this group to come together and make a run in the thick of Pac-12 conference play. The Huskies advantage in games they've won has been their size and athleticism. Look for Utah to be able to hinder that strength and extend their defense out to the perimeter. That should lead to a poor field goal percentage for Washington even at home. Grab Utah

Syracuse +10

            Can the Orange grab another victory over a quality team in Virginia today? I'm not sure on that but I do believe they're getting high value against the number. Don't forget last year Syracuse had a quality lead at the carrier dome before being crushed against a strong defensive Virginia team. This year's Virginia team is not the same defensively and no coach is better at making in-game adjustments against a poor offensive team than Jim Boeheim. Grab the points with the Cuse.

Play Arizona +3

            For the NFC Championship we'll grab the Cardinals plus the points. This game figures to be a dandy as this is the best combined record of an NFC Championship game since 1998 between the Falcons and Vikings. As great of a season as the Panthers have had I believe they're facing the one playoff opponent they likely wanted to avoid. Arizona's ability to spread the football out is a dimension of football that the Panthers have struggled with this season against the Colts, Eagles, Giants, Packers, Saints, and Seahawks last week. Arizona is also prepared to correct the past two seasons---missing the playoffs with an 11-5 record under Carson Palmer/Bruce Arians and last year's 9-1 start thwarted by a season ending injury to Palmer.  Also keep in mind last year the Cardinals led 14-13 at half with Ryan Lindley starting against the Panthers in the wild card round. That was done with just 64 offensive yards. Grab Az plus the points.

St John's +5.5

            The Johnnies are one of those teams you have to do a double-take on. They have suffered some puzzling losses amidst a new coach in Chris Mullin and an entire new starting five. Yet they've shown a hustle intensity that I like against a Marquette team that has been just as every bit of helter skelter. This is our Sunday CBB value play with the Johnnies.

Play Virginia Tech +10.5

            North Carolina has shown they can be the best team in college basketball when they want to be offensively. They have six different players averaging double digit scoring yet have only won in-conference games by a margin of twelve points. The reason for that has been their defense which has been horrendous. Virginia Tech already has quality conference wins over Virginia, NC State, and Georgia Tech. They also narrowly lost to Notre Dame by two points. Expect the Hokies to ride the energy of Buzz Williams and play well in front of their home crowd.

Play Sacramento -3

            After a thrilling victory against the Hawks one would believe the Kings would have a let down at home against the Pacers. As you look around the NBA we're starting to see a lot of teams wearing down before the All Star Break. I believe the Pacers are one as they've had a few key injuries and remember Paul George is coming off a full year without basketball. Value here lies with the Kings.

Play Milwaukee +6

            One of the teams surging right now are the Pelicans. You have to wonder how long can they sustain this type of offense. After demolishing a strong defensive team in the Pistons you'd figure they'd do the same against a Bucks team as just a one-point differential favorite of -6 instead of -5. Yet, the Bucks are improving by the day and have a young deep rotation that should give the Pelicans a tall task today.

Play Georgia Tech +6

            The Yellow Jackets are one of the teams getting high value ATS almost every gasme they’ve been an underdog. It's hard to figure out as they’ve defeated Virginia, and hung around as steep underdogs against UNC and others. I like them again here as the Yellow Jackets have size to thwart the Cardinal and offense that the Cardinal haven't seen thus far in the ACC.

Detroit +6.5

            Down in the Horizon league we'll grab value on Detroit getting nearly seven against Milwaukee. Milwaukee has rode a veteran lineup to surprise some folks especially with the efficiency of their offense. Yet in the Horizon league there are far too many teams that are cake walks that can pad and inflate stats. I expect Detroit who has athleticism at nearly all five positions to cause a bit of come down to Earth shooting for Milwaukee. Grab the value here.

Duke -4

            An overblown stat sometimes can be offensive rebounds. Duke lost their third in a row to Syracuse thanks to a great effort by Tyler Roberson with 20 rebounds. Yet the Blue Devils lost because of other variables that included keen play by Syracuse guards with transition spot up three offense and their great zone defense. After NC State walloped Pittsburgh and has impressed in other games I believe they're over valued here even with great interior play. Grab the Blue Devils to respond well.

Wake Forest +14.5

            Miami may have won against Boston College with a solid second half but something is still off with this Hurricanes team. Against a team that exerts a lot of effort in Wake Forest I'd be leery for the Hurricanes in a double-digit favorite spot. Grab the Demon Deacons to hang around with the Hurricanes.

Oklahoma City -5.5

            The Thunder are on the ascent and as well as the Mavericks have played you have to believe a bit of a wall is coming for them. They patched through the first few weeks of the season with an unhealthy roster before getting Matthews/Parsons in the lineup. They've shown the ability to play as a veteran team but I like the team balance and chemistry of OKC to get the job done on the road tonight.

Play Charlotte Bobcats +5

            It's highly evident that the Charlotte Bobcats are exceeding their ceiling of play as Kemba Walker continues to exhibit a dominating showcase and that the Magic are under achieving. Yet one can not ignore the lack of offensive from the Magic. They're struggling in all phases. Rather than latch onto a team in the Magic that are due for a win we'll grab the value of +5 with a confident Hornets club.

Memphis -1.5

            Tonight we'll look for the Grizzlies to handle the Nuggets in the altitude. I believe the Grizzlies have a bad taste in their mouth the last time they were in altitude and lost in overtime against the Jazz. The Nuggets who are playing their sixth straight home game have gained ATS support here as a result. Yet I don't expect the easy looks at the basket they've been getting from non-defensive teams such as OKC, Golden State, and others to be the case tonight against a hungry Grizzlies team. Grab the Grizzlies.

Boston College +15.5

            The Miami Hurricanes have lost consecutive games and head on the road for their third straight tonight against Boston College. Even though BC has lost all four ACC games by an average of 20 points I expect the game plan from the Hurricanes tonight to bode to the success of the point spread. They're focus will be solely on getting a victory with their defense. Grab BC to get the steep cover at home.

Pittsburgh -8.5

            This is just a poor matchup for NC State. NC State thrives on allowing point guard Anthony Barber to penetrate and facilitate offense. He has been over worked and succumbed in the second half against UNC. Fatigue of conference play can get the best of a lot of teams. With Barber wearing down NC State becomes a non ACC caliber team. Pittsburgh is a dangerous team at home and has the arsenal of depth to coast here. Grab Pitt as NC State's first half against UNC will entice bettors on their side.

Clemson +10.5

            One has to wonder how gassed the Clemson Tigers are after whirling wins over Syracuse, Louisville, Duke, and Miami. Yet, as shown yesterday with Syracuse's win over Duke this is a stacked ACC. Virginia's offensive inefficiency is troublesome to back at home in-conference against a Tigers caliber opponent. The Tigers have the interior players to limit Virginia's attacks in the lane. Florida State started pulling away from Virginia because of their ability to make down three's. Clemson has been flourishing from the perimeter and should continue to do so tonight. Too many points here.

Cavs -3

            Seeing the Cavs as a favorite against a Warriors team they struggled with in last year's post season and on Christmas Day is a bit of a head scratcher. But as I stated a week ago the Cavaliers are playing a different elevated brand of basketball that hasn't been seen since Lebron returned. Couple that with the Warriors tired legs and recent losses and I do believe we have enough advantage to make a play on the Cavs tonight.

Play Syracuse +11

            I'll be the first to admit that Syracuse is not the same team they were at the beginning of the season. Yet I believe the talent is there and they're severely under valued. Any team that loses their coach for a nine game suspension is going to decline and Syracuse did. But with a resounding win against Wake Forest I believe Syracuse can keep momentum going against a young Duke team that is reeling currently. Syracuse has the veteran advantage and will be able to score against a Duke team that has been giving up too many easy baskets. Grab Syracuse

Magic +8

            The Magic have been a thorn for backers over the last two weeks but now is a good time to get a return on investments with them. They grabbed us a cover in Europe in an overtime loss to the Raptors and I see them doing so again today. Atlanta is still probing for the right mix of minutes with Korver struggling and youth playing well with Hardaway Jr, Schroeder, and Bazemore. Orlando's interior defense should keep them in this game and I expect their offense to continue to move upward from what we saw against Toronto.

Utah +2.5

            Utah has had their issues on the road but I think today is a good spot to grab them against a Bobcats team that's started to falter. Perhaps they were playing over their heads with key production from young players and veterans. Utah has showed better balance offensively lately and should be able to disrupt the Bobcats offensively enough to win this.

Play FSU +4

Green Bay +7

            This in my opinion is one of the strongest underdog value plays over the last five years in the playoffs. Arizona's rise to an ATS juggernaut has not been seen to this fast of a rise in quite some time. They were right up there with the Patriots week in and week out with public support. For their great games there were too many alarming games of inconsistency. Against the Bengals, Ravens, Rams, Seahawks, and a couple of other games I saw performances that gave the vibe of a team that would crumble in the playoffs. Green Bay on the other hand is at the bottom of the spectrum in terms of perceived value. That will change this weekend as the Packers avenge their loss to the Cardinals with an outright win.

Wisc Green Bay +14.5

            The Horizon league should be a cake walk for Valparaiso. They have the returning veterans and strong coaching with Drew to get the job done. As down of a year as it's been for Green Bay, they have the offensive pedigree to maintain value here as steep underdogs. We'll grab them here to give Valpo a run for their money and stay within the number of 14.5.

Milwaukee +6

            Milwaukee once again has value here as oddsmakers and bettors have no faith. They got us a few nights ago against the Bulls as they erased an eight point deficit at home. Yesterday they prevailed against the Hawks and today they get to face a Bobcats team that has been wildly inconsistent for the last two weeks. This is strictly a value play as until the Bobcats show stability I'll continue to play reasonable numbers against them. Grab the Bucks

Detroit +2

            I've been impressed with the upward play of Detroit. That's why value has shifted today at home against Oakland. Oakland has the flare and stick out value to snare with Felder to snare them as a slight favorite here. Instead grab the value in Detroit which had a strong performance last year against Oakland that they should carry over at home

Clemson +5

            What Clemson is doing right now is truly remarkable. They have the pedigree to continue it against a Hurricanes team that has been plagued the last several seasons with let downs. Last year Clemson suffered one of their worst ACC performances against the Hurricanes in a dismal road performance. The team has grown and with momentum I believe they'll continue to shine. Grab the Tigers plus 5.

Pittsburgh -16.5

            Boston College just has zero value in the strong ACC. Pittsburgh may have had a poor performance against Louisville but have had strong showcase performances against Notre Dame, Gonzaga, and others. There just isn't any offense on the Eagles to sustain a competitive matchup. Grab the Panthers.

Villanova -7

            Georgetown continues to displease Big East fans with a down season. It's hard to believe as the Hoyas have strong talent and depth. But they have athletes that need a full season under their belts before growth can occur. Playing against strong defensive teams such as Villanova just bodes trouble. The Wildcats have been winning games with their trademarked defense while their offense continues to slump. Look for them to snap out of their offensive lull and take care of the Hoyas on the road.

Play Vtech +7.5

Big Board--Analysis in Later Write Ups

Maryland -10

Big Board Analysis in Later Write Ups

Play UNC -15.5

Big Board--Analysis in Later Write Ups

Miami -2.5

            The Heat are nearing the end of their road trip against the Denver Nuggets. Denver defeated the Warriors as 9.5 point underdogs and the Heat blew a first half lead for the second consecutive game. Against Utah they lost as the Jazz clamped down defensively in the altitude. Against the Clippers the Heat lost against prolific offense in the second half. This time around against the Nuggets the Heat should be able to control the pace of play for four quarters and pull off the win.

George Washington +5.5

            Tonight in the Atlantic 10, Dayton will look to hold serve against George Washington. The Flyers rely on outside shooting and guard oriented defense. Expect the Colonels to be able to counter as they have tall and athletic athletes that will pose a challenge for the Flyers. Grab the value on the veteran Colonels

Oregon +5.5

            Oregon has been a tough team to gauge but I think they're one of the top rising young teams in CBB. Dana Altman has done an excellent job dealing with injuries as his team gains strides. Utah may have the veterans but I like the youth and talent of the Ducks to have the advantage tonight.

Cleveland +7

            The Spurs are surging with plenty of double digit wins to make bettors happy. Yet tonight they're facing a focused and determined Cavs team. Since Kyrie Irving has returned they've looked better than they have ever before since Lebron returned to Cleveland last season. We took the value a few nights ago on the Mavs +6 and can not overlook tonight's value on the Cavs. Grab Cleveland

Orlando +4.5

            Orlando finally has value after a horrific stretch of play against the Cavs, Wizards, etc. They've been rested and I believe they're ready to pose a challenge ATS and against a Raptors team that has been wildly inconsistent. Expect a competitive game wire to wire in England

Portland -2.5

            Portland is getting value tonight in my opinion from one of the toughest schedules a team has had to face over the last week and a half. Utah took care of business against the Heat Saturday but I'll devalue that. For the majority of the game the Heat were in control before running out of gas defensively and offensively. Utah's lineup does not have the firepower to match the potent Trailblazers for four quarters. Grab the Blazers

Clemson +8

            The Tigers have received zero confidence ATS in three straight games against Syracuse, Louisville, and Florida State. All were outright wins and they're facing a Duke team that is entering the Bermuda Triangle of their schedule. Over the last three years they've lost all four games from Jan 11th-Jan 13th. Clemson has confidence and experience to attack a Duke team that lacks depth. Grab the plus 8.

Dallas +6

            It's been a handful of games since the Cavs have been truly challenged by a capable opponent. They've had an easy road against teams such as the Timberwolves, Magic, and others. Dallas has finally hit their stride offensively with Matthews and Parsons performing well along with point guard Williams. They'll be up for the challenge tonight against the Cavs.

Chicago -3

            Sometimes facing the right opponent at the wrong time can lead to improper judging of a team. The Bulls have lost consecutive games in torching fashion against the Hawks and Wizards. Atlanta had their number last season and carried it over and Washington as I stated last night are finding their edge. Tonight look for the Bulls to respond on the road against the young Bucs.

Memphis -1.5

            Memphis achieved an incredible come back against the Celtics the other night. Rather than discount that win I'll stamp it with approval into tonight's matchup against the Rockets. Even though Houston had a great win against the Pacers I'm not sold on the quality of basketball I've witnessed from them. There are still too many issues and I do not like the play I'm seeing from veterans Howard, Brewer, Terry, or guard Beverly. Grab the Grizzlies to hold their home court tonight and continue to gain momentum.

Phoenix +10

            Phoenix has been horrendous but gets a favorable road spot tonight after three days rest against Indiana. Indiana is coming off four consecutive road games in which they exerted a high level of energy. One they let an 18-point lead against the Heat slip away and another against the Pelicans they fought back from a fourteen point deficit. This led to a fatigued effort against Houston in which the defense surrendered 107 points. Grab the Suns who should have enough offense to hang in this one.

Texas A&M -6

            A&M is a team that I believe will find themselves in the top ten sooner than later. They have a veteran team and an emerging freshman in DJ Fogg. Florida on the other hand is a poor free throw shooting team (61.7%) and lacks the offensive firepower to win on the road tonight. The Aggies learned their lesson from two narrow wins and will get the cover tonight against Florida.

Alabama -6.5

            We'll conclude the bowl season with a play on Alabama to win. This is Alabama's year and I think the second time around oddsmakers have got it right with favoring a BCS team properly against Clemson. The ACC has shown it's down side overall in the bowls while the SEC has shined heavily. Clemson should pose a challenge but you have to believe Saban and companies adjustments will be too much for the Tigers to overcome. Play Bama as last play of the collegiate football season.

Wizards +8

            Odds are inflated Monday with Chicago losing to Atlanta to end their seven game win streak. Quietly the Wizards are finding confidence as Bradley Beal misses time with an injury. John Wall's play is entering a phase of brilliance that I think carries over on the road against the Bulls tonight. Grab the Wizards +8.

VMI +10.5

            VMI was victim to a hungry veteran Western Carolina team Saturday in a blowout loss. They've now suffered blow out losses two of their last three games which is why I find value on tonight's game against East Tenn State who blew out Western Carolina themselves. Grab VMI +10.5

Play Green Bay +1

            The lone premium NFL play will be on the Green Bay Packers +1. As great as Kirk Cousin's second half surge has been it needs to be examined further. His 19 TD's and two interceptions all came against losing opponents. Before that stretch Cousins had thrown 28 touchdowns and 28 interceptions in 22 starts. As poor as Green Bay looked the past two weeks I believe Aaron Rodgers can find a way to deliver a win here similar to wins against the Seahawks and Bears earlier in the season. Look for Rodgers to attack the Redskins 28th rated defense.

Play Miami Heat -1.5

            The Heat are rising to the occasion and playing some of the best basketball in the NBA in my opinion currently. As stated in ATS wins the last two weeks D Wade wants this Heat team to get on a roll before All Star break. He has delivered his part and did so with absentee play from his supporting cast last night. Utah is just a mess offensively which bodes to the Heat's advantage. Expect a better effort from the Heat supporting cast and continued solid defense. Grab the Heat.

CS Fullerton -5.5

            Out in Big West action will take a stab at CS Fullerton who are coming off an atrocious performances against UC Riverside. Yet before that game they had shown strides with 7 wins. I like the mix of interior and guard play that Fullerton can shine with against Cal State Northridge. While Riverside used proper offensive sets and numerous passes to find open shots, Northridge is the exact opposite with to many one on one moves and lack of proper sets. Grab Fullerton -5.5.

Wizards +3

            The Magic and Wizards both played last night with the Wizards losing soundly to the Raptors and Magic defeating the Nets. The Magic's win ended a four game losing streak that started with a loss to the Wizards. Yet as I profiled in the Magic's loss to the Wizards no team in basketball looks as tired as the Magic. Last night they were able to win with 83 points and shooting below 40 percent from the field. The Wizards are playing better than they were in the prior matchup and have found a balanced lineup with Temple, Dudley, and others while Bradley Beal is out. Grab the Wizards

Boise State -6

            Boise State were steep favorites last Saturday in which they didn't cover against Colorado State. Now home again they'll face a Fresno State team that may have more athleticism than teams they've faced such as Michigan State. Yet, athleticism does not grant you an instant advantage. Look for the Broncos to get what they want offensively and cruise similar to the way they did against Oregon.

Arizona State +5

            The Sun Devils keep garnering ATS key numbers for several reasons. They have shooters and are growing game to game. UCLA is coming off a win over the Wildcats, a game in which they nearly let slip away. I like the skill personnel that ASU has in the backcourt to play up to par with the Bruins strength with Alford. Grab ASU to keep this within the number.

VMI +7.5

            By no means do I believe Western Carolina should be 7.5 point favorites. They've lacked the offensive camaraderie to pull away from teams which has hurt their strength in defense. VMI is coming off a circus swing of performances with a blowout loss to Furman and a narrow home loss to Wofford. Expect a better balance here from VMI for a complete game and a cover of 7.5

Wichita State -7

            Wichita State's failure with returnees and transfers from Kansas and Cleveland State's Anton Grady have finally created ATS value here. With Southern Illinois coming off a home win against Northern Iowa as 2.5 point underdogs, you'd figure they'd be in for another solid win at home against Wichita State. Instead I believe Wichita State finally got the wake up call they needed in a narrow 67-64 win against Evansville. Grab Wichita State -7

Notre Dame -4.5

            Notre Dame is one of those teams that you can't understand why they're not a top 25 team. Losses of key players from graduation a year ago have hurt them but they have plenty of talent to make up for it. This should be a good spot against a Pittsburgh team that at times is lost on the offensive end. Look for the Irish to have a great game plan, which executed will showcase their skill advantage over the Panthers.

Cleveland State +5

            No team has been effected more by transfers than Cleveland State who lost Grady to Wichita State and Trey Lewis to Louisville. Milwaukee has been a solid program for the Horizon league but I see value in Cleveland State after surrendering a double digit lead to explosive Green Bay in their last game. Milwaukee does not blow you away with their offense which should keep Cleveland State in this.

St. John's +11

            The Johnnies are continual double digit underdogs as they are in a complete overhaul process under Chris Mullin. The Golden Eagles are coming off a big upset over Providence which has pushed this line up probably a good 2.5 points from where it should be. The inconsistent Golden Eagles are virtually getting the same spread that Providence a top ten team had against St. John's last Saturday. Expect a hangover here and a hungry Johnnies team to capitalize similar to when they faced Syracuse.

Maryland -3.5

            This game is what I call a gut check for the Maryland Terrapins. Have they played up to the caliber of play they should be? No, but they're still a top five team and have a legitimate chance of grabbing a number one seed. This is the type of test game that they should be able to prevail. Wisconsin will look to slow the game down but I do not believe they have the defensive capabilities to limit the Terrapins penetration with Melo Trimble and company. Expect the Terrapins to have a wide edge at the free throw line.

Play Portland Trailblazers +10

            If you recall a couple of seasons ago as the Warriors were growing, they had some classic games against the Trailblazers. Big leads never were protected in this matchup. The Warriors small ball lineup should aid the Trailblazers who have an explosive offense at home. Grab the Blazers plus ten points.

Play Miami -5

            Miami is one of those teams that you can sense has upward capability in its near future. With as bad as the Suns have played defensively that should only aid in the Heat's advantages tonight down in Phoenix. Lastly, I've said it before but Phoenix is one of the poorest home teams on Friday nights for whatever reason over the last five-six years.

Play Toronto -2

            I tabbed the Raptors as a devalued team ATS but won't shift to an overreaction as a two point road favorite against the Wizards. Washington has grabbed us a couple of slim covers including last week against the Raptors and a few nights ago against Cleveland. Besides a Raptors fourth quarter offensive lull they had full control of that game. I expect a better sense of play from the Raptors second unit this time around. Grab Toronto -2.

Utah +9

            There's prime value on Utah tonight who seem to play up for competition one night and off the grid the next. After being dominated by the Spurs it'd seem like they're set for another downfall in Texas to Houston. Instead expect the Jazz to be able to hang with the Rockets who allow leads to slip just as fast as they got them. Grab the Jazz +9.

Louisville -6

            Louisville has the depth this year to win games on the road as such favorites. I like the improvement of sophomores Onuaku, Snider, and company. Graduate transfers Lee and Lewis make the Cardinal dangerous. NC State lacks the scoring ability to keep within this number.

Miss State +7

            The Aggies hope to continue their ascent from the 21st ranking as they take on Miss State tonight on the road. Yet I believe this is a spot where Ben Howland can get the contributions he needs from Newman and company to pull of an upset against a veteran Aggies team. Grab the value here as the Aggies are coming off impressive double digit wins.

Wizards +7

            The Cavaliers have had their way post Christmas since a blowout loss to the Trail Blazers. They've been able to cover as of late including a game we were on against the Orlando Magic. Yet, playing on the road is a different story for the Cavaliers. With Irving back the second unit is still trying to mesh together. Those 12-15 minutes of bench play are key if you expect to win on the road, which the Cavs have been a meager 8-8. Grab the value on the Wizards similar to what we had on the Suns against the Cavs.

Wake Forest +8

            Duke has showed tremendous firepower in spurts but I believe Wake Forest can continue to show an upward trend tonight. They've battled in wins against Indiana and played well the other night against Louisville. Duke has struggled in games against teams like Wake w narrow wins over VCU and Georgetown on neutral courts. Grab the Demon Deacons to put hang tough for forty minutes

Play Sacramento Kings +5.5

            After a solid road win against the Thunder last night the Kings find themselves as 5.5 point road dogs tonight against Dallas. I don't anticipate the Kings running out of gas here. They're one of the hottest offensive teams in the NBA right now and scored over 140 points Saturday against the Suns. Don't look for the Kings momentum to end here. Grab the 5.5 tonight.

Play Atlanta Hawks -8

            One of the more curious swings of momentum came via the Hawks come from behind win against the Knicks recently. They turned it on and showcased just how much head and shoulders above they are than the Knicks. I'll give credit to the Knicks and their improvement but team's with true team ball and balance give them trouble. Atlanta learned their mistake from falling behind last time and will emphasize a hot start tonight. Hawks win by double digits.

Add Memphis -1

            We'll add Memphis to the card tonight. Playing at Portland is a tough battle for any team. After Memphis loss to the Jazz in overtime a few nights ago I saw a veteran team filled with dejection. I think this is a crucial period for a team that's been intact for awhile---if they fall apart expect trades. The young Blazers have had issues against defensive teams that are physical with them (Bulls/Pistons). Grab the Grizzlies to be aggressive early and defeat the Blazers on the road.

Miami -1.5

            The Pacers have had the Heats number this season but I look for things to fare differently tonight. Miami has played with the veteran uplift prototypical to days Lebron James was there. With Wade healthy he has proclaimed he wants to see the Heat answer strong before the All Star break. Grab the Heat tonight to clear the hurdle of the Pacers finally.

North Carolina -3

            As a short road favorite I believe North Carolina's veteran team can handle the youth of Florida State. It's always difficult on the road but North Carolina's 7th rated offense with five double digit scorers should be able to pull through in this one. Grab the Tar Heels.

Oakland Raiders +7.5

            Kansas City finds themselves into the playoffs off of balanced offense and an uncanny ability to score with their defense. Oakland's season took a final dagger when they let a six point lead in the fourth quarter erode against Kansas City. Carr threw three interceptions in that fourth quarter including a pick six. I believe that loss stung the Raiders and that they'll come out ready on both sides of the football in Kansas City. They also have motivation as a team to send out Charles Woodson in style. Grab the Raiders.

Play ASU +3.5

            This line has moved a half point and we'll grab the home value on the ASU Sun Devils. Though ASU has been wildly inconsistent this season they have had a steady knack of playing to the level of their opponents. This is not the same high-level Arizona team that Tucson is use to. New Coach Bobby Hurley will be looking to get things off to a roaring start and I think ASU has the personnel to pull off the upset at home.

New Orleans Saints +6

            The reported rumors of the end of the Payton/Brees era has not effected the quarterback whatsoever. The Saints offense was back in order against the Jaguars and I expect it to have its way against the Falcons as well. Atlanta may have knocked off the undefeated Panthers but there issues are well documented. We'll grab the value of the Saints to close out the regular season.

Play Denver +15

            Now is the time that I believe we can start grabbing value against the Warriors as double digit favorites at home. Sure they're going to pack fire power and great support but teams do not cover mid teen spreads with consistency. Denver has the ability to score and should stay in this game even if Steph Curry returns to the floor tonight. Grab the Nuggets.

Play Cleveland -8.5

            Currently I do not believe there is a more tired team in the NBA than the Orlando Magic. For a team that relies on defense and interior scoring that is troublesome. Their defense has waned in the second halves in losses to Miami and the Wizards in recent games. Outside shooting is not their strength which I believe will lead to the Cavs packing their defense inside. Grab the Cavs today.

Oregon +1

            On the collegiate level there is not a quarterback more entertaining to watch in bowl season than Vernon Adams Jr. Whether the defense gives up a touchdown or he throws an interception his mindset and play does not change. TCU has the back ground of a top five to ten team with senior players exiting. It just was not their year and I believe the Ducks will have their way to close out the Horned Frogs strong program run over the last three years.

Pacific +9.5

            We'll get in on a little WCC action between BYU and Pacific. Pacific once 1-8 has won two of their last three games to get to 3-9. This is simply a value play as we're getting the same spread as we received against Wisconsin-Green Bay on the road a few weeks back. BYU plays a similar open style with little defense. Scouting conference opponents is obviously a higher grade than the road game in Green Bay. We'll grab the value here with Pacific on their home floor in Stockton.

Cincinnati -8.5

            The Bearcats took a surprise loss to the Temple Owls to open up conference play. The shock was the way that the Owls were able to score against a typically strong Bearcats defense. Tulsa does not pose the same threat offensively and likes to play at a limited possessions slow pace. This is a situation where the Bearcats should thrive and respond after a loss to Temple.

Michigan State -10

            Off a scare to Oakland and a loss to Iowa this may seem like a great spot to grab the Gophers. Instead we'll take the Spartans who will face a Minnesota team that has no identity offensively. That's troublesome for the Gophers who are a very poor defensive team. Michigan State should be able to score in the high 80's here and solidify a comfortable cover.

East Tennessee State +4

            Out in the Southern Conference we'll add a play on East Tenn State. East Tenn State will face a Western Carolina team that is polar opposite of East Tenn State. They slow the ball down and can play solid half court defense. Yet they do not have the depth that East Tenn State has and do not have the pull away threat that you look for from a favored team of four points at home. Grab East Tenn State plus the four.

Georgia Tech +13.5

            A season ago North Carolina demolished Georgia Tech in one of the most lopsided wins from a power conference in-conference. I expect the Yellow Jackets to dig deep and showcase a much more balanced effort even on the road. They're a veteran team that has seen improvements from all returnees. Grab the Yellow Jackets plus 13.5.

Clemson +1.5

            The Tigers find themselves as an underdog after losing four of their last five games. Yet their last three opponents defeated them with clear athleticism advantages at all positions against Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina. Against Florida State, the Tigers will be able to compete in a much more balanced personnel matchup. Grab the Tigers to respond at home as slight underdogs.

Play Stanford +5

            Pac-12 conference play is set to start for both Stanford and Utah. The Utes had a mixed start to their non-conference portion of the season while Stanford is in obvious transition after losing several starters a season ago. This is a spot where I believe the Utes win over Duke may have them a bit over valued. In the majority of their non conference games their offense struggled and bogged down in the half court. Without Delone Wright who graduated a season ago they're missing that consistent slasher and go to scorer on a nightly basis. Stanford may be in transition but has the defense to keep them within this spread at home.

Take: (805) CHARLOTTE HORNETS 

Reason: Play Charlotte +6.5 Here we are with the same number as the other night that we had with the Wizards in Toronto. The Wizards had a poor performance the majority of the game but were able to close and get the cover for us in the fourth quarter. I said then I have the Raptors over valued over the next two weeks and will not sway with the same value on the Hornets. Charlotte is coming off a poor defensive effort against the Clippers at home, but will not have to extend their defense nearly as much against the Raptors lineup. Grab the Hornets to cover another spread for us against the Raptors

Iowa +7

            How Stanford is a seven point favorite here is the one spread I have not figured out. Having watched nearly all their games this season they've played to level of their competition more times than not. Two wins over USC may have their ATS value skewed here. Iowa's defense will force enough turnovers off of Kevin Hogan to keep this within the number.

Michigan State +10

            In the books in Vegas I love to here the commotion on teams. Everyone's mindset is that this is Alabama's year. Maybe it is, but from an ATS stand point they've faltered more times than not. Michigan State Head Coach Mark Dantonio has put on the best coaching job of the season in my eyes. From poor performance wins against Indiana, Purdue, and Central Michigan to solid wins over Iowa/Ohio State. They've also progressed as the season has went on. Alabama will be put the test and likely prevail but expect another strong effort from the Spartans.

Florida State -7

            Florida State in my book has the best value of any team favored by seven or more in bowl season. Two losses this year---one on a blocked field goal as time expired and another against undefeated Clemson---has put this mirage that FSU has had a down season. Instead I expect FSU to show the same pedigree of a championship caliber team that they've displayed over the past two years. Houston's strength in the American conference was their athleticism. That will be nullified at quarterback with Greg Ward Jr and through the defense of the Cougars. Grab FSU.

Play Utah Jazz +2

The Jazz nearly lost to the 76ers a few nights back, so it's safe to say they're in trouble on the road against the Timberwolves, right? Not necessarily. The Jazz and Twolves matchup well with both teams boasting youth. But the mix of the Jazz youth is gelling better in my opinion than the Twolves. Minnesota has lost four games in a row and is having a tough time allocating the proper minutes to veterans Kevin Garnett and Tayshaun Prince while giving it's stock piled youth experience. Grab the Jazz who have leverage with a rotation that should take advantage of bench minutes of the Twolves.

Play Washington +7

The Toronto Raptors are one of the teams I've tabbed as vulnerable over the next week to two. They're a team reliant on Derozan and Lowry to do a bulk of their scoring, and have seen dips in the play of role players such as Cory Joseph, Luis Scola, and others. Therefore their typical strong home value has come down a bit. Washington is coming off a blowout loss at home to a Clippers team without Blake Griffin. Lets grab the value on the Wizards to respond on the road and cover 7.

Miss State -5

            NC State's 19th rated defense has to be looked at under a microscope. Their five losses in conference they allowed over 37 points a game and mind-boggling yardage. Their only wins in-conference were against the bottom feeders of the ACC who had a combined record of 10-28. Nothing changes here as the Bulldogs have too prolific of an offense for the Wolfpack to hold down. Dak Prescott goes out a winner and adds on to a stellar season statistically.

Auburn -2.5

            Memphis strong start and win over an SEC team in Ole Miss may seem like a good reason to back them against the Auburn Tigers. Yet, I did not like what I saw from the Tigers to conclude the season. The offense has not looked the same and the defense may be one of the worst in the bowl season. Adding Mike Norvell as their new Coach puts an added twist in the reason to back the Auburn Tigers. Norvell showed true inconsistencies at ASU as their offensive coordinator that will be spotlighted in this game.

LSU -7

            Les Miles and LSU should have their way defensively and offensively against the Big 12 Texas Tech. It's the same old script we tend to see from the Big 12 in bowl season and won't change against the more physical and powerful Tigers.

Atlanta +3

            The Hawks have value in my eyes on Tuesday as they've been a bit sluggish post holiday. They trailed by double digits to the Knicks before coming back and lost last night on the road to Indiana. Yet I'm impressed with the defense they showcased in the Knicks comeback as well as holding the Pacers to 93 points on their home floor last night. The offense will come and should tonight against a lax Rockets team defensively who allowed the Pelicans to surge back in the final six minutes the other night. Grab the Hawks on the road Tuesday.

Delaware +7

            Delaware is a team that may surprise some folks in the CAA this year. Don't forget Delaware was a 14th seed just two seasons ago before a complete rehaul last season in which they struggled. Now all that on court time is starting to payoff as Delaware can put up points in bunches. Buffalo has to be tagged with an asterisk as their holdover talent from the Bobby Hurley era has regressed. Grab Delaware.