NFL
Armadillo's Write-Up

Week 16

First Post

Falcons (12-2) @ Lions (4-10)-- Atlanta had big win over Giants last week, but they've lost two of last three road games (win was 24-23 in Tampa); they're 2-3 as an away favorite, with road wins by 16-24-7-1-13 points. Detroit had hideous loss to the Cardinals last week, allowing two more return TDs. For season, Lions don't have a return TD; their opponents have nine. Detroit is 23-11 in its history against the Falcons, but 1-3 in last four; Atlanta is 3-2 in last five visits here. NFC South non-divisional road faves are 4-1 vs spread; NFC North underdogs are 3-5, 1-0 at home. Four of last five Atlanta games stayed under the total; six of last eight Detroit games went over.

Titans (5-9) @ Packers (10-4)-- Tennessee won rare Monday night appearance, now heads to frozen tundra on short week with nothing to play for, vs a Packer squad thats won three in row, eight of last nine, covering five of last six, but they did trail four of last five games at halftime, which is problem if laying 13 points. Titans won last three series games; they've won four of five visits to Lambeau, with last visit in '04. Tennessee is 3-3 as a road dog, covering last three on road; their road losses are by 28-24-23-5-4 points. AFC South road underdogs are 6-8 vs spread; NFC North home favorites are 6-10. Last five Green Bay games, four of last five Titan tilts stayed under the total.

Raiders (4-10) @ Panthers (5-9)-- Carolina showing signs of life, winning three of last four games after 2-8 start; they've run ball for 171.7 ypg last three weeks, as Newton's mobility has helped. Panthers are 1-4 vs spread as favorites; dogs are 10-4 vs spread in their games this year. Oakland snapped 6-game skid with a sloppy 15-0, TD-less win over rival Chiefs last week; they're 1-5 on road, with losses by 22-31-3-35-24 points. NFC South home favorites are 7-9 vs spread in non-divisional games; AFC West underdogs are 7-15-1, 4-9 on road. Teams split four series games; with visitor winning last two. Last four Oakland games stayed under total; three of last four Panther games went over.

Bills (5-9) @ Dolphins (6-8)-- Buffalo was +3 in turnovers, beat Miami 19-14 in Thursday night game five weeks ago, just its third win in last nine series games. Bills lost three of last four visits here, with losses by 9-28-27 points. Miami is 4-3 at home, 1-2 this year; since 2003, they're a ridiculously bad 9-33 vs spread as a home favorite (4-4 in last eight). Bills lost last three road games by 12-6-7; they're 2-4 as road underdog this year, and scored 13.8 ppg in four grass games. Dolphins lost five of last seven games, but they're last team to beat Seahawks. AFC East home teams are 3-6 vs spread in divisional games, 2-3 if favored. Four of Miami's last five home games stayed under the total.

Bengals (8-6) @ Steelers (7-7)-- Do-or-die for Steeler team that lost three of last four games, with underdog winning all four and covering last seven Steeler games. Bengals won/covered five of last six games; they've won five of last six on road, are 2-1 as road dogs this year. Cincy has +10 turnover ratio in last eight games, after being -7 in first six. Pitt (-2.5) ran ball for 167 yards, won 24-17 at Cincy in Week 7; Steelers outgained Cincy 431-185 in what was Bengals' third loss in row at time. Pitt won 10 of last 12 series games, winning last five by average of 13 points. Cincy lost four of last five visits here, with losses by 14-17-16-28 points. AFC North home teams are 4-3 in divisional games, 2-2 at home.

Patriots (10-4) @ Jaguars (2-12)-- New England can get first-round bye if they win last two games and Denver loses once, so they'll keep pedal to floor here, in game after they got waxed by 49ers. NE is 4-1 as road favorite this year, winning on road by 21-24-30-7 points, with loss at Seattle (not counting London game, a big win over Rams). AFC South home dogs are 6-5 vs spread in non-divisional games; AFC East favorites are 11-9 vs spread, 4-3 on road. 11 of last 12 Patriot games went over total; three of last four Jaguar games stayed under. Jax is 0-6 in games that went over total (3-3 vs spread), losing by average of 16 points- they are 1-5 as home underdogs, losing home games by 20-17-38-17-17-7 points.

Colts (9-5) @ Chiefs (2-12)-- Indy makes playoffs with win here, great story, but only one of its nine wins (27-10 at Jax) was by more than seven points, so laying lumber with them is iffy. Colts are 3-4 SU on road, covering only game as road fave. Chiefs gained total of 119 yards in ugly 15-0 loss at rival Raiders last week; they've lost 10 of last 11 games, scoring one TD on 22 drives in last two games, and that came on 80-yard run on first play two games ago. Indy won 10 of last 12 series games, five of last six here, but last visit here was in '04. AFC South non-divisional favorites are 6-2 vs spread, 1-1 on road; AFC West dogs are 7-15-1, 3-6-1 at home. Under is 5-2-1 in last eight Chief games.

Saints (6-8) @ Cowboys (8-6)-- Dallas is finding ways to win; they've won last three games and five of last six, scoring 22.3 ppg just in second half of those six games, but Cowboys are 1-6 vs spread when favored this year- since 2003, they are 8-36 vs spread as a home favorite. Saints lost three of last four games; they're 2-5 on road, 1-2 as road dog- they've won six of last seven series games, taking last three games played here, scoring 33 ppg. NFC East non-divisional favorites are 6-13 vs spread, 5-8 at home; NFC South underdogs are 10-6 vs spread, 10-3 on road. Five of Saints' seven road games, three of last four Dallas games went over the total. Underdogs covered last five Dallas games.

Redskins (8-6) @ Eagles (4-10)-- Washington outrushed Philly 169-80 in Week 11's 31-6 win, just their second win in last seven series games; they also averaged 11.6 ypa and were +3 in turnovers. Redskins are 4-3 in last seven visits here, and are on serious roll, winning/covering last five games after 3-6 start, and it hasn't mattered which rookie QB has played- they're 4-3 on road, scoring 38+ points in three of four wins. Eagles lost nine of last twn games, with only win coming on last playof games; all four of their wins are by 1 or 2 points. Home teams are 2-7 vs spread in NFC East divisional games this season, 1-2 if home dogs. Three of last four games for both teams went over total

Rams (6-7-1) @ Buccaneers (6-8)-- Tampa Bay got squashed 41-0 last week in Superdome; league trend this year has been for teams like that to bounce back in good form next week, but Bucs have now lost four games in row, giving up an average of 29.8 ppg. Rams laid egg at home vs Vikings last week, ending playoff hopes for this year; they've covered five of six true road games this season, going 2-0-1 SU in last three. Home teams won seven of last eight series games,with Bucs 5-1 in series since losing '99 NFC title game in St Louis- Rams lost last five visits here, by 10-3-12-1-21 points. Four of Bucs' last five games stayed under; six of Rams' last eight went over.

NFL

Week 16

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Trend Report
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Saturday, December 22

8:30 PM
ATLANTA vs. DETROIT
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Atlanta's last 5 games when playing Detroit
Atlanta is 2-3-1 ATS in its last 6 games
Detroit is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games at home
Detroit is 2-6 ATS in its last 8 games when playing Atlanta


Sunday, December 23

1:00 PM
WASHINGTON vs. PHILADELPHIA
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Washington's last 6 games when playing on the road against Philadelphia
Washington is 2-5 SU in its last 7 games when playing Philadelphia
Philadelphia is 0-5 ATS in its last 5 games at home
Philadelphia is 5-2 SU in its last 7 games when playing Washington

1:00 PM
BUFFALO vs. MIAMI
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Buffalo's last 6 games on the road
Buffalo is 6-12 SU in its last 18 games when playing on the road against Miami
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Miami's last 5 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 8 of Miami's last 10 games

1:00 PM
MINNESOTA vs. HOUSTON
Minnesota is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games on the road
Minnesota is 3-5-1 ATS in its last 9 games
Houston is 7-1 SU in its last 8 games
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Houston's last 6 games at home

1:00 PM
SAN DIEGO vs. NY JETS
San Diego is 1-6 ATS in their last 7 games when playing NY Jets
San Diego is 2-5 SU in their last 7 games when playing NY Jets
NY Jets are 2-4 SU in their last 6 games at home
NY Jets are 2-4 ATS in their last 6 games at home

1:00 PM
ST. LOUIS vs. TAMPA BAY
St. Louis is 2-6 ATS in its last 8 games when playing Tampa Bay
St. Louis is 1-5 SU in its last 6 games when playing Tampa Bay
Tampa Bay is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against St. Louis
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Tampa Bay's last 5 games when playing St. Louis

1:00 PM
NEW ORLEANS vs. DALLAS
New Orleans is 2-6 SU in its last 8 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 6 of New Orleans's last 9 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Dallas's last 6 games
Dallas is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games

1:00 PM
NEW ENGLAND vs. JACKSONVILLE
New England is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing Jacksonville
The total has gone OVER in 5 of New England's last 6 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Jacksonville's last 6 games
Jacksonville is 1-6 SU in its last 7 games at home

1:00 PM
CINCINNATI vs. PITTSBURGH
Cincinnati is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games when playing Pittsburgh
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Cincinnati's last 6 games when playing Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh is 1-3-1 ATS in its last 5 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 8 of Pittsburgh's last 9 games at home

1:00 PM
OAKLAND vs. CAROLINA
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Oakland's last 5 games
Oakland is 1-5 SU in its last 6 games on the road
Carolina is 1-5 SU in its last 6 games at home
Carolina is 4-8 SU in its last 12 games

1:00 PM
TENNESSEE vs. GREEN BAY
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Tennessee's last 5 games
Tennessee is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games when playing Green Bay
The total has gone OVER in 16 of Green Bay's last 22 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Green Bay's last 6 games at home

1:00 PM
INDIANAPOLIS vs. KANSAS CITY
Indianapolis is 3-12 SU in its last 15 games on the road
Indianapolis is 10-2 SU in its last 12 games when playing Kansas City
Kansas City is 1-10 SU in its last 11 games
Kansas City is 3-6 ATS in its last 9 games

4:05 PM
CLEVELAND vs. DENVER
Cleveland is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games when playing Denver
Cleveland is 5-15 SU in its last 20 games
The total has gone OVER in 18 of Denver's last 25 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Denver's last 7 games

4:15 PM
CHICAGO vs. ARIZONA
Chicago is 1-5 SU in its last 6 games
Chicago is 1-5 ATS in its last 6 games
Arizona is 9-3 SU in its last 12 games at home
Arizona is 2-5 SU in its last 7 games when playing Chicago

4:25 PM
NY GIANTS vs. BALTIMORE
The total has gone UNDER in 8 of the NY Giants last 9 games on the road
NY Giants are 2-4 SU in their last 6 games on the road
Baltimore is 16-2 SU in its last 18 games at home
Baltimore is 16-7 SU in its last 23 games

8:30 PM
SAN FRANCISCO vs. SEATTLE
San Francisco is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games when playing Seattle
San Francisco is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Seattle
Seattle is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 14 of Seattle's last 20 games at home

NFL
Armadillo's Write-Up

Week 16

First Update

Giants (8-6) @ Ravens (9-5)-- Baltimore in freefall, losing last three games, while giving up 23-31-34 points; they should get lift from return of Ray Lewis- I'm not fond of teams who fire coordinators in December, especially when they replace guy with Jim Caldwell, who never called plays before. Ravens won three of last four games in seldom-played series. Giants lost four of last six games, including last three on road; they allowed average of 157 rushing yards over last three tilts. NFC East favorites are 6-13 vs spread, 1-5 on road; NFC North underdogs are 7-8, 3-3 at home. Five of last six Giant games stayed under total; last three Raven games went over. Next week's game is more critical for Baltimore.

Vikings (8-6) @ Texans (12-2)--Houston clinches home field thru AFC tourney with win here; they're 5-2 as home favorites this year, winning at home by 20-6-24-30-12-12 points (lost to Packers). Minnesota is 2-5 on road; they had three return TDs in their two wins- they're 2-3 as road underdogs this year. Vikings ran ball for 240-171-213 yards last three games, as he chases Dickerson's single season record. Vikings won both series meetings, 28-21/34-28ot. NFC North road underdogs are 2-5 vs spread in non-divisional games; AFC South home favorites are 5-1. Three of last four Viking games stayed under; four of last six Houston home games went over the total.

NFL poolies betting cheat sheet: Week 16

Check out our NFL poolies' cheat sheet for all your football wagering needs in condensed form. Quick-hitting betting notes on all of Week 15's action.

Atlanta at Detroit (3.5, 50.5)

Atlanta can secure home-field advantage throughout the conference playoffs with a triumph in the Motor City. The Falcons bounced back from a 10-point road loss to Carolina in a big way as they recorded a dominating 34-0 home win over the New York Giants last week. Atlanta ran more than it passed for just the second time this season, gaining 125 yards on 35 carries while attempting just 28 passes. Detroit is looking to snap its six-game losing streak. Things hit rock bottom for the Lions last Sunday, when they suffered a 38-10 loss in Arizona to the Cardinals. Detroit is 1-5 ATS in its last six overall.

Tennessee at Green Bay (-12.5, 46)

The Packers clinched the NFC North with last week's 21-13 win at Chicago and must win their final two games and get help in order to clinch the No. 2 seed in the NFC and the first-round bye. Wide receiver Jordy Nelson sat out again last week with a bad hamstring and is questionable Sunday. Tennessee is coming off a 14-10 victory over the New York Jets on Monday that ended a three-game losing streak. Since a Week 10 loss to Chicago, the Titans rank third in total defense (285.8 yards per game), and fourth giving up 17.6 points per game. The Packers are 5-1 ATS in their last six overall.

Oakland at Carolina (-9.5, 46)

The Panthers, who are just 2-5 at home, are attempting to end the campaign on a high note as they seek their third consecutive victory. Quarterback Cam Newton has been outstanding over the last four weeks. The Auburn product leads the league with a 113.1 passer rating in that span with nine touchdown passes and no interceptions. The Raiders snapped a six-game slide last Sunday with a 15-0 triumph over Kansas City in their home finale. Sunday's shutout against the Chiefs was the team's first blanking since 2002. Sebastian Janikowski provided all the offense, kicking a season-high five field goals. Oakland is 1-6 ATS in its last seven overall.

Buffalo at Miami (-4, 41.5)

The Dolphins are still in playoff contention after last week’s 24-3 win over Jacksonville, but will need a ton of help in order to play January football. Running back Reggie Bush racked up 104 yards on the ground in the victory– his first 100-yard effort since Week 2. The Bills will finish with a losing record for an eighth consecutive season after last Sunday’s 50-17 rout by Seattle. Buffalo, which yielded a season-low 184 yards in a 19-14 win over the Dolphins on Nov. 15, has become the eighth NFL team - and first since the 1986 Jets - to allow 45 points four times in one season. Miami has won three of four at home over Buffalo and is 4-1 ATS in its last five December games.

Cincinnati at Pittsburgh (-4, 43.5)

The Bengals will try to keep their division title hopes alive - while eliminating the host Steelers from the playoff race entirely. A Cincinnati win Sunday would clinch a playoff spot while knocking the Steelers out of contention. The Bengals, who are winners of five of six after thumping Philadelphia 34-13 on Dec. 13, are well rested but have lost their past five against Pittsburgh. Cincinnati is allowing just 12.5 points per game over its last six – the best in the NFL in that stretch - while forcing 15 turnovers. The Steelers have numerous injuries to their secondary and will be without cornerback Ike Taylor (ankle) for a third straight game. The Bengals are 0-7-2 ATS in their last nine versus AFC North foes.

New England at Jacksonville (14.5, 50)

New England rallied from a 31-3 deficit a week ago to tie San Francisco but ultimately suffered a 41-34 setback to snap its seven-game winning streak. However, the Patriots racked up 407 yards of offense in the second half against the stout defense of the 49ers. The offense could get an added boost if TE Rob Gronkowski (forearm) suits up this week. The Jaguars have lost three straight, failing to cover in all three contests. Running back Maurice Jones-Drew (foot) is back practicing, but is a long shot to play Sunday.

Indianapolis at Kansas City (7, 41.5)

Indianapolis has won seven of nine but missed out on a chance to clinch a playoff berth with a 29-17 loss to the Texans last week. Quarterback Andrew Luck has completed only 46.1 percent of his passes in three games this month and has been intercepted nine times in his last five contests. The Chiefs gained a season-low 119 yards and recorded only seven first downs in a 15-0 loss at Oakland last week. Starting quarterback Brady Quinn is dealing with a rib injury but coach Romeo Crennel said Thursday he expects him to suit up against the Colts. Kansas City has recorded fewer than 10 points in four of its last five games. Indianapolis is 7-0 ATS in its last seven games following a loss.

New Orleans at Dallas (-1, 51.5)

The Cowboys are still on the outside of the NFC playoff picture looking in, but their chances improved dramatically after topping Pittsburgh in overtime last Sunday for their fifth win in six games. Cornerback Morris Claiborne expects to play Sunday after missing last week's victory over Pittsburgh with a concussion. Running back DeMarco Murray is also probable despite missing practice on Wednesday. Dallas is 3-0 since Murray returned from a foot injury that shelved him for six contests. The Saints posted a 41-0 home triumph over the Bucs last Sunday. Despite the shutout, New Orleans' defense still ranks last in the league as it has allowed an average of 446.2 yards per contest. The underdog is 7-0 ATS in their last seven meetings.

Washington at Philadelphia (6, 45.5)

Washington is tied with Dallas and New York for the NFC East lead but owns the tiebreaker over both teams. Backup quarterback Kirk Cousins led the Redskins to their fifth straight win - a 38-21 victory over the Browns last week in the absence of Robert Griffin III. Griffin (knee) was a full participant at practice Thursday and is expected to start against the Eagles. Philadelphia fell 34-13 to Cincinnati in its last effort, committing a season-high five turnovers in the process. Running back LeSean McCoy (concussion) was carted off in the final minutes of a 31-6 loss to the Skins on Nov. 18, but is expected to suit up Sunday. The Redskins are 5-0 ATS in their last five games overall.

St. Louis at Tampa Bay (-3, 44.5)

St. Louis saw its playoff chances all but snuffed out with last week's 36-22 home loss to Minnesota that snapped a three-game winning streak. The Rams, who had allowed only 42 points during its three-game winning streak, recorded a pair of sacks last week to add to their NFC-leading total of 41. Tampa Bay was once in the driver's seat for a playoff slot but has tumbled out of contention in the wake of a four-game losing streak, including a 41-0 mauling at New Orleans a week ago. The Bucs defense has been sturdy against the run but awful against the pass, ranking last in the league with 310.6 yards allowed per game. The Rams are 4-0 ATS in their last four road games.

Minnesota at Houston (-9.5, 45)

Vikings running back Adrian Peterson trampled the Rams for 210 yards and a score in last week's 36-22 victory, a result that kept Minnesota's playoff hopes alive. The Vikings will be in tough against a Texans team that owns the AFC's top seed and is coming off a 29-17 win over Indianapolis. Peterson has amassed 1,313 rushing yards in the last eight weeks - equaling Arian Foster's output for the entire season. Peterson is in the midst of the most incredible stretch of games by any running back in the history of football. A year removed from major knee surgery, the 27-year-old is just 294 yards away from breaking Eric Dickerson's single-season record of 2,105 set in 1985. The Texans are 8-1-1 ATS in their last 10 games vs. a team with a winning record.

San Diego at N.Y. Jets (-1, 39)

New York's fleeting postseason hopes were dashed with another wretched offensive performance in Monday's 14-10 loss at Tennessee - a defeat that finally prompted coach Rex Ryan to pull the plug on Mark Sanchez and elevated third-stringer Greg McElroy to starting quarterback. San Diego flat-lined in a 31-7 home loss to Carolina and will miss the postseason for a third straight year. Adding to the misery were season-ending injuries to leading rusher Ryan Mathews (collarbone) and wide receiver Malcom Floyd (ankle). The Chargers are 1-6 ATS in their last seven meetings.

Cleveland at Denver (-13.5, 44.5)

Denver can move closer to earning a first-round bye in the playoffs by extending its winning streak to 10 with a victory over Cleveland, which has dropped nine straight meetings. The Broncos are coming off a 34-17 victory over the Ravens in a game that Peyton Manning threw for a season-low 204 yards. The Denver defense, which ranks fourth allowing 307.1 yards per game, held Baltimore to 56 rushing yards and scored on a pick-six. The Browns’ .217 all-time winning percentage against the Broncos is their lowest against any NFL team. But Cleveland is 4-1 ATS in its last five games.

Chicago at Arizona (5, 36.5)

The Bears' prolonged slump has left them likely needing victories in back-to-back road games with help in order to reach the playoffs. A 21-13 loss to Green Bay last Sunday dropped the Bears behind the competition in the race for the conference’s two wild-card spots. The defeat was also Chicago’s seventh in a row in the month of December. The Bears are averaging 14.2 points over their last six games after producing 29.5 per contest in their first eight. More pressure will be placed on running back Matt Forte this week after backup Michael Bush (ribs) was placed on injured reserve earlier this week. The Arizona defense leads the league with 22 interceptions, including snagging three picks in last week’s 38-10 win over Detroit. The Bears are 0-5 ATS in their last five December games.

N.Y. Giants at Baltimore (1, 47)

Baltimore will try to avoid its first four-game slide in five seasons when they host the Giants. Running back Ray Rice was held to just 38 yards in last week’s loss to the Broncos and now faces a New York stop unit allowing 123.7 rushing yards per game. The Giants were shutout for the first time in seven years in Sunday’s loss to the Falcons, but could be getting some key starters back after running back Ahmad Bradshaw (knee), cornerback Prince Amukamara (hamstring) and safety Kenny Phillips (knee) all sat out against the Falcons. All three have returned to practice in some fashion this week. The Ravens are 0-6 ATS in their last six December games.

San Francisco at Seattle (Pick, 39)

San Francisco’s top-ranked scoring defense could be in for a major test Sunday night against the suddenly high-scoring Seattle offense. There’s plenty at stake as the Seahawks can clinch their second playoff berth in three seasons and the 49ers are one win shy of securing their second consecutive NFC West title. After setting a team record for points in a 58-0 win over Arizona on Dec. 9, the Seahawks became the first team in 62 years to score at least 50 points in consecutive weeks with their rout of Buffalo last week. San Francisco has won four straight in this divisional matchup following a 13-6 victory on Oct. 18, but Seattle is a perfect 6-0 at home this season. The Seahawks are also 5-0 ATS in their last five versus a team with a winning record.

Falcons Can Wrap Up Home-Field Advantage At Detroit

Atlanta Falcons at Detroit Lions
NFL Betting Preview
Date: 12/22/2012 at 8:30 p.m. (ET)
Opening Lines: Falcons -3, O/U 51
Television: ESPN

Atlanta Falcons: Coming off just their second loss of the season, the Falcons (12-2 straight-up, 8-5-1 against the spread) got back into the win column with a 34-0 whitewashing of the Giants in Week 15. Quarterback Matt Ryan tossed three touchdown passes, two of them to wide receiver Julio Jones, and Atlanta ended with nearly an 18-minute advantage on the clock in a game that closed as a Pick'em. The final fell more than two touchdowns short of the total to mark the fourth "under" in the last five Atlanta contests. The Falcons are 5-2 on the NFL highway this season, going 4-2-1 against the spread and 4-3 "over." Atlanta can sew up home-field advantage in the NFC playoffs with a victory this week or a San Francisco loss. The Falcons have won the last two meetings with Detroit, most recently in 2011 with a 23-16 victory in Motown as 4½-point underdogs.

Detroit Lions: "Off the rails" is how Coach Jim Schwartz described the current state of the Lions (4-10 SU, 4-9-1 ATS) following their sixth consecutive loss last week at Arizona. Detroit took a 7-0 lead in the second quarter before the Cardinals scored 24 unanswered points, and QB Matthew Stafford had two of his three interceptions returned for touchdowns. The game closed with the Lions laying 5½-6 points to an Arizona squad that had dropped its nine previous trips to the gridiron. The Lions have won just two of their six home games this season, going 1-4-1 against the spread and four of the six contests jumping above the total. Betting the high side of totals in Detroit tilts has been very profitable at 10-4 overall this season, but four of the last five in this series stayed "under" the mark, and the past five clashes in Detroit also failed to reach the number.

Steelers, Bengals Fight for Playoffs In Key Divisional Game

Cincinnati Bengals at Pittsburgh Steelers
NFL Betting Preview
Date: 12/23/2012 at 1:00 p.m. (ET)
Opening Lines: Steelers -4, O/U 43
Television: CBS

Cincinnati Bengals: True road warriors this campaign, the Bengals (8-6 straight-up, 7-6-1 against the spread) look to move closer to the playoffs in a clash of AFC North rivals on Sunday at Pittsburgh. Cincinnati bounced back from a tough loss to Dallas with a 34-13 triumph in Philadelphia last Sunday, easily covering as 4½-point chalk after trailing by three at the half. The Bengals erased that 13-10 deficit with 24 unanswered points in the final 30 minutes and ended up dominating the clock by better than a full quarter. The final snapped a five-game run for the "under" in Cincy games, and the Bengals rank sixth in total defense (320.4 yards per game) plus 10th in fewest points allowed (20.9 points per game). Second-year quarterback Andy Dalton has thrown five touchdown passes in the past two games without an interception, and running back BenJarvus Green-Ellis has topped the 100-yard mark in four of the last five games to reach a career-best 1,080 yards on the year.

Pittsburgh Steelers: This is a must-win for the Steelers (7-7 SU, 5-8-1 ATS) after dropping their fourth contest in five weeks at Dallas last Sunday in overtime. The frustration was evident after the game in QB Ben Roethlisberger's comments, but Coach Mike Tomlin smoothed it over this week. Pittsburgh backers have also been frustrated with just one cover in the last six weeks per the closing spreads, and that was a 23-20 upset at a struggling Baltimore as a 6½-point underdog. The Steelers take aim at their third consecutive season sweep of the Bengals after winning 24-17 as 1-point favorites in Week 7 to extend the series win streak to five. All of the victories have been covers for the Steelers as well, with four of the last five clashes in Iron City staying "under" the total. That trend also plays well with eight of Pittsburgh's last nine at Heinz Field falling short of the scoreboard hurdle.

Giants Desperate For Win Sunday At Ravens In Week 16

New York Giants at Baltimore Ravens
NFL Betting Preview
Date: 12/23/2012 at 4:25 p.m. (ET)
Opening Lines: Baltimore -1, O/U 47
Television: FOX

New York Giants: The Giants (8-6 straight-up, 6-7-1 against the spread) have seen this spread move solidly in their direction despite getting blown out 34-0 at Atlanta last week. New York is just 2-4 SU and ATS in its last six games with losses in the three away (scoring just 9.7 points per game). The defending Super Bowl champs are now in a three-way tie in the NFC East with Washington and Dallas, and this is a huge game for the team's playoff hopes. Quarterback Eli Manning needs to get his mojo back after the first regular-season shutout of his career. He was just 13-of-25 for 161 yards against Atlanta, also throwing two more picks to raise his yearly total to 15. The running game needs a big day and should get a boost with Ahmad Bradshaw (knee) probable after missing last game (click to check updated NFL injury report).

Baltimore Ravens: The Ravens (9-5 SU, 5-8-1 ATS) also had a devastating loss last week, 34-17 at home to Peyton Manning and Denver. They’re reeling at 0-3 SU and ATS in their last three and are just one game ahead of Cincy for the AFC North lead. Quarterback Joe Flacco struggled last game (20-of-40 passing) despite Jim Caldwell taking over offensive coordinator duties from the fired Cam Cameron. The defense has also allowed 29.3 ppg the last three games, helping the "over" go 3-0. Linebacker Ray Lewis (tricep) is questionable to return after missing eight games while Terrell Suggs will continue to play through his biceps injury. The Giants and Ravens have met just twice since their January 2001 Super Bowl matchup (a 34-7 Baltimore win). The home team easily won and covered those two contests.

Seahawks Host 49ers In Sunday Night Football Showdown

San Francisco 49ers at Seattle Seahawks
NFL Betting Preview
Date: 12/23/2012 at 8:20 p.m. (ET)
Opening Lines: Seahawks -1, O/U 40½
Television: NBC

San Francisco 49ers: The NFL puts Week 16 to rest with a big Sunday Night Football contest that could decide the NFC West with the Niners (10-3-1 straight-up, 9-5 against the spread) at the Seahawks. San Francisco picked up its second straight win and cover with a 41-34 upset at New England last Sunday as a 4-point road 'dog, nearly blowing a 31-3 lead early in the third quarter. The 49ers defense forced four turnovers to withstand a 443-yard passing performance by Patriots QB Tom Brady. Second-year QB Colin Kaepernick only completed 14 passes, but four went for San Fran touchdowns, setting a new career high in just his fifth NFL start. San Francisco picked up its fourth consecutive win in this series against the Seahawks with a 13-6 win at home back in Week 7. Seattle did have just enough to grab the cover as a 7½-point underdog for its second consecutive cover vs. the Niners.

Seattle Seahawks: Back-to-back 50-point efforts have the Seahawks (9-5 SU, 10-4 ATS) on a three-game winning and covering streak heading into this crucial showdown. The latest victim was Buffalo in Toronto as Seattle cruised to a 50-17 laugher, just the third "road" win in eight tries for Coach Pete Carroll's squad that will now close out the season at home, where the Seahawks are a perfect 6-0. Seattle rookie QB Russell Wilson ran for three scores and passed for another against the Bills, and the defense added its third touchdown in two games with Earl Thomas' pick-6 in the third quarter. The team's third-ranked rushing offense is led by running back Marshawn Lynch, who is approaching the 1,400-yard plateau for the season, and has 10 totes for scores. Seattle ranks fourth in turnover margin at plu-11, and the defense is second behind San Francisco allowing just 15.6 points per game. The last four Seahawks games have gone "over," but the last two in this series failed to reach the total.

Falcons Can Wrap Up Home-Field Advantage At Detroit

Atlanta Falcons at Detroit Lions
NFL Betting Preview
Date: 12/22/2012 at 8:30 p.m. (ET)
Opening Lines: Falcons -3, O/U 51
Television: ESPN

Atlanta Falcons: Coming off just their second loss of the season, the Falcons (12-2 straight-up, 8-5-1 against the spread) got back into the win column with a 34-0 whitewashing of the Giants in Week 15. Quarterback Matt Ryan tossed three touchdown passes, two of them to wide receiver Julio Jones, and Atlanta ended with nearly an 18-minute advantage on the clock in a game that closed as a Pick'em. The final fell more than two touchdowns short of the total to mark the fourth "under" in the last five Atlanta contests. The Falcons are 5-2 on the NFL highway this season, going 4-2-1 against the spread and 4-3 "over." Atlanta can sew up home-field advantage in the NFC playoffs with a victory this week or a San Francisco loss. The Falcons have won the last two meetings with Detroit, most recently in 2011 with a 23-16 victory in Motown as 4½-point underdogs.

Detroit Lions: "Off the rails" is how Coach Jim Schwartz described the current state of the Lions (4-10 SU, 4-9-1 ATS) following their sixth consecutive loss last week at Arizona. Detroit took a 7-0 lead in the second quarter before the Cardinals scored 24 unanswered points, and QB Matthew Stafford had two of his three interceptions returned for touchdowns. The game closed with the Lions laying 5½-6 points to an Arizona squad that had dropped its nine previous trips to the gridiron. The Lions have won just two of their six home games this season, going 1-4-1 against the spread and four of the six contests jumping above the total. Betting the high side of totals in Detroit tilts has been very profitable at 10-4 overall this season, but four of the last five in this series stayed "under" the mark, and the past five clashes in Detroit also failed to reach the number.

Total Talk - Week 16

December 22, 2012

Week 15 Recap

For the second straight week, totals went 8-8. For the most part, these results were clear-cut. We had a few bad beats, in particular the Denver-Baltimore and San Francisco-New England games. Those two contests saw 35 and 55 points posted respectively in the second-half of their games. Another outcome that should be mentioned is the Colts-Texans matchup, which had 40 points on the board after three quarters. Unfortunately for ‘over’ players, only six points were posted in the final 15 minutes. On the season, the ‘under’ stands at 105-103-1.

Line Moves

The smart money produced a 4-1 record last week and if it wasn’t for the result in last week’s SNF affair between the 49ers and Patriots, you would’ve seen a 5-0 mark. This week, we already have a couple games that have moved more than 3 points. Here are all of the line moves of 1 ½ points or more at CRIS as of Saturday.

Tennessee at Green Bay: Line opened 47 and dropped to 44 ½
Buffalo at Miami: Line opened 43 and dropped to 41 ½
Indianapolis at Kansas City: Line opened 43 and dropped to 41 ½
New England at Jacksonville: Line opened at 49 and jumped to 50 1/2
San Diego at N.Y. Jets: Line opened 41 and dropped to 37 1/2
San Francisco at Seattle: Line opened at 40 ½ and dropped to 38 ½

Under the Lights

The ‘over’ went 2-1 in last week’s games under the lights. On the season, the ‘under’ has gone 29-17 (63%) in the primetime games. This week, bettors only have two games to follow with the first one taking place on Saturday.

Atlanta at Detroit: It’s certainly hard to argue for the ‘under’ when you look at Detroit’s defense, which has given up an average of 32 points per game the last six weeks. Most would expect Atlanta to get close to that number considering its averaging 27.4 PPG on the road. The Falcons defense posted a shutout last week but the unit hasn’t shown that much consistency this season. Detroit has seen the ‘over’ go 4-2 at home this season.

San Francisco at Seattle: The 49ers beat the Seahawks 13-6 in their first meeting on Oct. 18 and the closing total of 37 ½ points was never threatened. Since that game, San Francisco (5-2) and Seattle (6-1) have both leaned to the ‘over.’ The 49ers are coming off a 41-point performance, while the Seahawks have scored 50-plus points in each of the last two weeks. Weather could be dicey in the Great Northwest, with rain expected for the primetime battle.

Rematch Games

Betting the ‘over’ in the second meeting between divisional teams was a good look a few weeks ago but like any trend, it’s balancing out. The ‘over’ still holds a slight edge (15-12, 55%) but the ‘under’ has gone 10-5 (67%) in the last 15 rematches.

Buffalo at Miami: These teams met in a Thursday Night battle back in Week 10 and the Bills won 19-14 at home. In that game, Buffalo led 19-7 at the break and the only points (7) in the second-half came from Miami. The Bills have proven that they can light up the scoreboard, but they can also shoot blanks too. The Dolphins are limited offensively and this week’s total (41 ½) is much lower than the first meeting (45). Including the first encounter, the ‘under’ has gone 4-1 in the last five meetings between this pair.

Cincinnati at Pittsburgh: The first go ‘round in Week 7 saw the Steelers capture a 24-17 victory, which was their fifth straight win and cover over the Bengals. During this run, the ‘under’ has gone 3-2 and that includes this year’s game in mid-October. Prior to last week’s ‘over’ against the Eagles, Cincinnati was on a 5-0 run to the ‘under.’ The Bengals’ defense has held their last six opponents to 20 or less while the Steelers’ unit has given up 20 or more points the last four weeks, which tells you how underrated Cincinnati is on that side of the ball. Or perhaps, it’s better to say Pittsburgh’s “D” is overrated? At Heinz Field, the Steelers have watched the ‘under’ go 5-1 and it could be 6-0 if it wasn’t for the second-half fireworks in Week 14 against San Diego.

Washington at Philadelphia: The ‘under’ has cashed in four of the last five in this series. Washington walloped Philadelphia 31-6 on Nov. 18 and the game stayed ‘under’ the closing number of 45, which is close to this week’s number (45 ½). RGIII is expected back for Washington and that should only help an offense that has put up 30-plus points in four of the last five weeks. After watching the ‘under’ go 5-0 in the first five weeks, the Eagles have swung the other way with a 6-3 mark to the ‘over’ the last nine games.

San Francisco at Seattle: (See Above)

Fearless Predictions

After watching Seattle put up another 50-spot, I’m going to stay away from totals on the Seahawks for the rest of the season. With that the being said, they’ll probably get blanked against the 49ers this week. Even with the clear-cut loser in Seattle, we hit the ‘over’ ticket and drilled another teaser and managed to only lose a couple cents ($20) on the week. On the season, we’re up $840. As always, Press, Pass or Fade but in the end - Good Luck and Merry Christmas to you and yours!

Best Over: Oakland-Carolina 46

Best Under: San Diego-N.Y. Jets 37 1/2

Best Team Total: Under 20 ½ N.Y. Jets

Three-Team Total Teaser:
Over 36 Oakland-Carolina
Under 53 Cleveland-Denver
Under 46 ½ San Diego-N.Y. Jets

Week 16 Tips

December 22, 2012

The playoff races are tight in each conference with only two games remaining in the regular season. Past Atlanta, San Francisco, and Green Bay, the NFC has plenty of different scenarios of teams not only qualifying for a Wild Card spot, but the NFC East is still up for grabs. The Cowboys, Redskins, and Giants each own 8-6 records, but New York is finished with Dallas and Washington on the schedule. Meanwhile, Minnesota looks to close strong against Houston and Green Bay, two teams that have already wrapped up division titles.

Vikings at Texans (-8, 44 ½) - 1:00 PM EST

Minnesota has been the ultimate roller-coaster ride this season in the NFL. The Vikings began the campaign at 4-1, but lost five of the next seven games. Leslie Frazier's club has got back on track with consecutive victories over Chicago and St. Louis as short underdogs to improve to 8-6, while being part of a five-team logjam for one playoff spot in the NFC.

The Texans wrapped up their second straight AFC South title by beating the Colts last Sunday, 29-17 as 10 ½-point favorites. Houston moved to 12-2, as Gary Kubiak's squad can clinch home-field advantage in the AFC with a victory over Minnesota. In four games off a home win, the Texans have hit the 'under' three times, while twice holding opponents to nine points or less.

The Vikings picked up just their second road win in seven tries last Sunday in a blowout of the Rams. Minnesota has lost all three times this season after scoring at least 26 points in a victory, including double-digit losses at Washington and Chicago. In two meetings between these teams, the 'over' has hit each time, including a 28-21 home triumph by Minnesota in 2008.

Saints at Cowboys (-2 ½, 51 ½) - 1:00 PM EST

New Orleans couldn't overcome the disastrous offseason of "Bountygate," as the Saints will miss the playoffs for the first time since 2008. The Cowboys are trying to avoid a December meltdown in the final two weeks, as Dallas saved its season with an overtime victory over Pittsburgh last Sunday.

Dallas controls its own destiny as far as the NFC East title goes as the Cowboys travel to Washington in the season finale. Jason Garrett's team closed as a one-point favorite in last week's 27-24 triumph over the Steelers, a third straight victory for the Cowboys. Dallas has cashed the 'over' in five of the last six home contests, as the potential for a shootout is possible again, taking on a New Orleans' defense that ranks 32nd in points allowed.

The Saints put together their most impressive win of the season last Sunday with a 41-0 rout of the Buccaneers as 3 ½-point 'chalk.' The victory snapped a three-game skid, but New Orleans enters the Lone Star State with a 2-4 ATS record as an underdog this season. It's been a difficult task to determine is the Saints will hit the 'over' on the road consistently as evidenced by 3-3 mark to the 'over' with a total above 50.

Bengals at Steelers (-3 ½, 41 ½) - 1:00 PM EST

We didn't want to disregard the AFC playoff race, which still has plenty of storylines. Cincinnati dug themselves back from the dead after starting 3-5 as the Bengals have won five of their last six games, including a Thursday night rout of the Eagles, 34-13 as 4 ½-point road favorites. Now, the Bengals are playing with revenge after losing in Week 7 at home to the Steelers.

Pittsburgh topped Cincinnati, 24-17 two months ago at Paul Brown Stadium in a Sunday night affair, as the Steelers held the Bengals to 185 yards of total offense. With all the injuries the Steelers have suffered this season, former Georgia Tech standout Jonathan Dwyer stepped in to rush for 122 yards that night, while Chris Rainey scored the go-ahead touchdown in the fourth quarter. Pittsburgh has won each of the last five meetings, including a 3-0 record against Andy Dalton.

The Bengals are getting the job done on the defensive side, allowing 13 points or less in five of the previous six games, while cashing the 'under' five times in this stretch. Cincinnati has been one of the better road clubs in the league this season by compiling a 5-2 SU/ATS ledger, but both losses came to division opponents at Baltimore and Cleveland.

Giants (-2 ½, 47) at Ravens - 4:25 PM EST

New York knows the drill - just get in the playoffs. The Giants have alternated wins and losses in each of their last five games, including a 34-0 drubbing last Sunday at the hands of the Falcons. Tom Coughlin's club has lost three straight road contests, while scoring just 29 points in those defeats. The task won't be easy this week, but the Ravens need a victory to secure the AFC North crown.

Baltimore has stumbled recently with three consecutive losses, while getting blasted at home by AFC West champ Denver, 31-17 last Sunday. In John Harbaugh's tenure as head coach, the Ravens have never lost four straight games, as Baltimore has been in this situation two previous times since 2008. The Ravens have seen tremendous success at home against NFC opponents, winning 12 straight games dating back to 2006.

The Giants own a 2-4 ATS record the last six weeks, while putting together a 2-5 ATS mark since 2006 as a road favorite against AFC competition. The 'under' is profiting for New York recently, hitting in seven of the last nine games, even though this is the lowest total for the Giants since falling at Cincinnati in Week 10.

Falcons at Lions

December 21, 2012


Two teams going in different directions will collide Saturday night at Ford Field in the Motor City, where Detroit will play host to Atlanta. With a win, the Falcons can wrap up homefield advantage throughout the playoffs.

Most books are listing Atlanta (12-2 straight up, 8-5-1 against the spread) as a 3 ½-point favorite with a total of 51. Gamblers can take the Lions on the money line for a plus-170 return (risk $100 to win $170).

Mike Smith’s team silenced its critics with last week’s 34-0 clubbing of the Giants at the Ga. Dome. Matt Ryan completed 23-of-28 passes for 270 yards and three touchdowns without an interception.

Julio Jones caught a pair of TD passes against the G-Men. Tony Gonzalez had the other TD grab and Michael Turner rushed for 52 yards and one score. Harry Douglas had three receptions for a team-high 83 yards.

Atlanta’s defense handed New York its first regular-season shutout since 1996. Sean Weatherspoon recorded a team-high nine tackles (six solo), while Thomas DeCoud and Asante Samuel both intercepted Eli Manning. Samuel’s interception on the Giants’ opening drive set the tone for the game and gave his team great field position to draw first blood.

Ryan is enjoying the best season of his career. The Boston College product has completed 68.5 of his passes for a career-high 4,202 yards with a 27/14 touchdown-to-interception ratio. Ryan probably has the best trio of weapons in the NFL with tight end Tony Gonzalez, WR Julio Jones and WR Roddy White, and now Douglas is getting more involved.

White has made a team-high 79 receptions for 1,156 yards and five TDs, while Jones has 69 catches for 1,071 yards and nine TDs. Gonzalez is possibly playing his last season but the future Hall of Famer isn’t slowing down a bit. Gonzalez has 87 receptions for 880 yards and eight TDs.

Atlanta has not had much success running the ball, however. Michael Turner is averaging only 3.6 yards per carry and his back-up, Jacquizz Rodgers, is averaging just 3.9 YPC.

Detroit (4-10 SU, 5-9 ATS) has been creating ways to lose all season and last week’s blowout loss to the lowly Cardinals was the icing on the cake in a nightmare campaign. Arizona snapped a nine-game losing streak by trouncing the Lions 38-10 as a six-point home underdog.

Matt Stafford threw three interceptions against the Cardinals, including a pair of pick-sixes.

Jim Schwartz’s club has lost six in a row, going 1-5 ATS in the process. To give you an idea of how frustrating things have been for the Lions, consider that they are second in the NFL in total offense and 12th in total defense. Until last week’s loss, Detroit’s seven previous defeats were all one-possession games.

Stafford is fourth in the NFL in passing yards with 4,252, but he has a mediocre 17/15 TD-INT ratio. Calvin Johnson leads the NFL in receiving with 106 catches for 1,667 yards and five TDs.

Detroit is 2-4 both SU and ATS at home this year. In a pair of home underdog situations, the Lions lost outright both times but went 1-1 ATS. During Schwartz’s four-year tenure, his team is 8-6 ATS in 14 games as a home underdog.

As if Schwartz didn’t have enough concerns, now injuries are starting to mount. Key players like WR Ryan Broyles, WR Titus Young, DT Corey Williams and DT Nick Fairley have recently been placed on injured reserve. Also, safety Louis Delmas is ‘questionable’ against Atlanta and TE Brandon Pettigrew is ‘doubtful.’

As for the Falcons, they have three key players listed as ‘questionable,’ including DT Jonathan Babineaux, OG Tyson Clabo and DB Chris Owens.

Atlanta has won five of its seven road games, posting a 4-2-1 spread record. The Falcons are 2-2-1 ATS as road favorites this season, 11-7-1 ATS as road ‘chalk’ during Smith’s five-year tenure.

I had a phone conversation Friday afternoon with Matt Youmans, who covers the sports betting beat for the Las Vegas Review-Journal. Youmans told VegasInsider.com, “Bookmakers are prepared for a one-sided attack on the Falcons. It’s a bad situation in Detroit right now. I’ve heard the coaching staff isn’t getting along and that [head coach Jim] Schwartz and [offensive coordinator Scott] Linehan have been going at each other all year long.”

The ‘under’ is 9-5 overall for the Falcons, but they have seen the ‘over’ go 4-3 in their road assignments.

The ‘over’ is 9-4-1 overall for the Lions, 4-2 in their six home games.

Kickoff is slated for 8:30 p.m. Eastern on ESPN.

**B.E.’s Bonus Nuggets**

--Atlanta veteran defensive end John Abraham has registered a team-high 10 sacks.

--DeCoud has a team-high six interceptions for the Falcons.

--Seattle owns the NFL’s best spread record with a 10-4 ATS ledger. The Seahawks have covered the number in three straight and they’ve seen the ‘over’ hit in four consecutive game and six of their last seven. Pete Carroll’s team is 6-0 both SU and ATS at home going into Sunday night’s NFC West showdown vs. San Francisco.

--Philadelphia continues to own the NFL’s worst ATS record, going 3-10-1 vs. the number.

--In addition to Detroit, there are six more home underdogs in Week 16, including Jacksonville (+14.5 vs. New England), Philadelphia (+6 vs. Washington), Arizona (+5.5 vs. Chicago), Baltimore (+2.5 vs. the Giants), Kansas City (+7 vs. Indianapolis) and Seattle (+1 vs. San Francisco).

--During John Harbaugh’s five-year reign as Baltimore’s head coach, the Ravens are 1-3 ATS in four games as home underdogs.

NFL

Saturday, December 22

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Falcons at Lions: What bettors need to know
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Atlanta Falcons at Detroit Lions (3.5, 50.5)

The Atlanta Falcons are on the verge of clinching the top seed in the NFC. The Detroit Lions are just looking to end their dismal season on a high note when the teams collide at Ford Field on Saturday night. NFC South champion Atlanta can secure home-field advantage throughout the conference playoffs with a triumph in the Motor City. The Falcons are wrapping up the road portion of their regular season but have lost two of their last three away from home.
Detroit enters the contest looking to snap its six-game losing streak. Things hit rock bottom for the Lions on Sunday, when they suffered a 38-10 loss in Arizona to the Cardinals, who were coming off their ninth consecutive defeat - an embarrassing 58-0 drubbing at the hands of Seattle. Detroit has not won since posting a 31-14 victory at Jacksonville on Nov. 4.

TV: 8:30 p.m. ET, ESPN.

LINE: Falcons -3.5, O/U 50.5.

ABOUT THE FALCONS (12-2): Atlanta bounced back from a 10-point road loss to Carolina in a big way as it recorded a dominating 34-0 home triumph over the New York Giants on Sunday. The Falcons ran more than they passed for just the second time this season, gaining 125 yards on 35 carries - not including three kneel-downs by their quarterbacks - while attempting just 28 passes. They ran 37 times and passed on 29 occasions in a victory over Philadelphia on Oct. 28. Matt Ryan broke two of his franchise records Sunday. Ryan has now thrown for 4,202 yards on 369 completions through 14 games. He had 4,177 passing yards last season and completed 357 passes in 2010.

ABOUT THE LIONS (4-10): After winning 10 games last season, Detroit will be hard-pressed to record half as many victories this campaign. After facing Atlanta, the Lions host the Chicago Bears, who are very much in contention for a playoff spot. Coach Jim Schwartz is not planning on conceding anything despite his team's downward spiral. "You have something to prove every week regardless of winning streak, losing streak, what happened the previous week," he said. "People are competitive, people have pride. People have confidence in themselves. I think that's what helps people bounce back from stuff like this." Four of Detroit's last five losses have been by seven points or less.

TRENDS:

* Under is 5-0 in the last five meetings in Detroit.
* Under is 4-1 in Falcons’ last five games overall.
* Lions are 1-5 ATS in their last six games overall.
* Falcons are 1-4 ATS in their last five games following an ATS win.

EXTRA POINTS:

1. Lions WR Calvin Johnson needs 182 yards to break Hall of Famer Jerry Rice's single-season record of 1,848 receiving yards.

2. Ryan is the only QB in Falcons history to throw for more than 4,000 yards in consecutive seasons. He is 33-4 at home and has won his last 11 starts at the Georgia Dome.

3. After throwing 41 touchdown passes last year, Detroit QB Matthew Stafford has only 17 this season.

NFL

Saturday, December 22

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Tale of the tape: Falcons at Lions
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Take a quick glance at the tale of the tape for Saturday night’s showdown between the Atlanta Falcons and Detroit Lions.

Offense

The Falcons have been held under 20 points only once this season, that coming in a winning effort back on November 4th against the Cowboys. They scored in all four quarters en route to a 34-0 win over the Giants last Sunday. Michael Turner has re-established himself as a key cog in recent weeks, scoring a touchdown in five consecutive games. Since throwing five interceptions in Week 11 against Arizona, Matt Ryan has tossed seven touchdowns compared to only two interceptions in the last four games.

Detroit is coming off one of its worst offensive showings of the season, putting up only 10 points in a blowout loss to the Cardinals last Sunday. Prior to that, the Lions had scored at least 20 points in seven consecutive games. Calvin Johnson racked up 121 receiving yards last week, but was held out of the end zone for the second straight game. Mikel Leshoure has scored at least one touchdown in four of Detroit’s last four contests.

Edge: Atlanta


Defense

Atlanta gave up 30 points in its last road game in Carolina two weeks ago, but responded with a shutout of the defending Super Bowl champions back at home last Sunday. The Falcons have been wildly inconsistent defensively, giving up 31, 19, 23, 13, 30, and 0 points in their last six games overall. Their weakness has been against the run, where they allow five yards per rush on the road this season.

Speaking of problems defending the run, the Lions are giving up 4.9 yards per rush at home. Detroit has been absolutely torched lately, allowing at least 24 points in six straight games. With that being said, the Lions have still managed to outgain four of their last five opponents in terms of total yardage. They held the Falcons to 23 points in a losing effort right here at Ford Field last season.

Edge: Atlanta


Special teams

The Falcons should have a field day returning punts against a Lions special teams unit that allows a whopping 14.2 yards per return this season. The problem is, Atlanta has only managed 7.3 yards per return in that department. Falcons kicker Matt Bryant is one of the best in the business, but hasn't been quite as steady as he was earlier in the season, connecting on 31-of-36 field-goal attempts to date.

Detroit is averaging below the league average in terms of both kickoff and punt returning, and won't catch any sort of break against a Falcons special teams unit that performs better than the league average in coverage. Atlanta is allowing only 7.0 yards per punt return, and 21.3 yards on kickoffs. Veteran Lions kicker Jason Hanson has missed only four of 32 field-goal attempts, but one of those misses came on perhaps his biggest kick, in overtime against the Texans on Thanksgiving Day.

Edge: Atlanta


Word on the street

“I thought we set the tempo early with our run game and it goes hand-in-hand when you’re able to run the football." Falcons head coach Mike Smith on his team returning to its roots by focusing on its ground game against the Giants last Sunday.

"You know, all we need is to have one play from every guy that we didn't have last week. You know, Calvin's going to have his, but every guy has to have a play that's made." Lions offensive coordinator Scott Linehan speaking about the top-heavy nature of his receiving corps.

Saturday, December 22

Game Score Status Pick Amount

Atlanta - 8:30 PM ET Atlanta -3.5 500

Detroit - Under 50 500

Sunday, December 23

Game Score Status Pick Amount

Tennessee - 1:00 PM ET Tennessee +10.5 500
Green Bay - Over 45 500

Oakland - 1:00 PM ET Carolina -9.5 500
Carolina - Over 46.5 500

Buffalo - 1:00 PM ET Buffalo +5 500
Miami - Under 43.5 500

Cincinnati - 1:00 PM ET Pittsburgh -3 500
Pittsburgh - Over 41.5 500

New England - 1:00 PM ET Jacksonville +14 500
Jacksonville - Over 51 500

Indianapolis - 1:00 PM ET Kansas City +4.5 500
Kansas City - Under 41.5 500

New Orleans - 1:00 PM ET Dallas -1 500
Dallas - Over 52.5 500

Washington - 1:00 PM ET Philadelphia +4.5 500
Philadelphia - Under 46 500

St. Louis - 1:00 PM ET St. Louis +3 500 DOD
Tampa Bay - Over 44 500

Minnesota - 1:00 PM ET Houston -9.5 500
Houston - Under 44 500

San Diego - 1:00 PM ET N.Y. Jets -1 500
N.Y. Jets - Under 38.5 500

Cleveland - 4:05 PM ET Cleveland +12 500
Denver - Over 43.5 500

N.Y. Giants - 4:25 PM ET Baltimore +1 500
Baltimore - Over 47 500

Chicago - 4:25 PM ET Arizona +6.5 500
Arizona - Under 36.5 500

San Francisco - 8:20 PM ET San Francisco + 1 500 ( NFC WEST GOY)
Seattle - Over 40 500

NFL odds: Week 17 opening line report

It’s the final week of the NFL regular season and many of the Week 17 games have postseason implications. None more so than games involving the NFC East.

Three teams – New York, Dallas and Washington – are still battling for playoff berths and the division crown is on the line Sunday when the Cowboys visit the Redskins.

Dallas at Washington (-3.5, 50)

There’s no team hotter than the Redskins, who are on a six-game winning streak straight up and against the spread. Washington prevailed 38-31 over Dallas in Week 12 at Cowboys Stadium and can wrap up the NFC East with a win Sunday night. The Redskins can also clinch a playoff berth if the Bears and Vikings both drop their respective finales. This betting line is a mirror image of the line in Week 12, when the Cowboys were 3.5-point home faves.

Green Bay at Minnesota (3, 46)

There’s no shortage of storylines heading into this clash between NFC North foes. The Vikings were written off after their Week 13 loss at Green Bay, but have rebounded with a three-game SU and ATS win streak to catapult them back into the playoff picture. Green Bay is coming off a 55-7 demolition of the Titans but still has some work to do to secure a first-round bye. The Packers are on a 4-0 SU and ATS run.

Kansas City at Denver (-16, 42)

The Broncos still have plenty to play for in their season finale and oddsmakers are putting them to the test with a daunting 16-point spread – their highest of the season. Denver couldn’t cover the 10 points in the previous Week 12 meeting at Arrowhead and Kansas City will relish the role of spoiler in this one. The Broncos can clinch a first-round bye and even home-field advantage throughout the playoffs with a win and some help.

Houston at Indianapolis (5, 44)

Rookie quarterback Andrew Luck successfully led Indy to the playoffs with a seven-point win over Kansas City on Sunday, but Houston has plenty to play for heading into its finale. The Texans were held to just six points by the Vikings on Sunday and oddsmakers are banking on a rebound performance from the offense this week. Houston can clinch a first-round bye and home-field advantage throughout the playoffs with a win and little luck.

NFL playoff scenarios: Week 17 hits and misses

Every spot in the AFC has been decided, while the NFC East and the conference’s last two berths are still up for grabs heading into the final weekend.

Here’s a look at Sunday’s games with playoff implications and the contests that don’t mean a darn thing.

Games with playoff implications:

Houston at Indianapolis
The Texans have clinched the AFC South and can earn home-field advantage throughout the playoffs with a win in Week 17.

Philadelphia at N.Y. Giants
This game is a must-win for the Giants, who also need help to earn a playoff berth.

Chicago at Detroit
The Bears need to take business in Detroit and hope Green Bay knocks off Minnesota in order to play January football.

Kansas City at Denver
Denver can earn a first-round bye with a win over the lowly Chiefs.

Arizona at San Francisco
The Niners can clinch the NFC West with a win.

St. Louis at Seattle
The Seahawks can clinch the NFC West with a win, combined with a San Francisco loss.

Green Bay at Minnesota
This is a must-win for both teams. Green Bay can clinch the No. 2 seed in the NFC and Minnesota needs a win to clinch a playoff berth.

Miami at New England
The Patriots hold the head-to-head tiebreaker with Denver and can earn the No. 2 seed in the AFC with a win over the Fish paired with a Broncos loss.

Dallas at Washington
The Redskins can clinch the NFC East with a win over the Cowboys, who also need a win to clinch the division. Dallas has been eliminated from wild-card contention.

Baltimore at Cincinnati
The Ravens were assured of a home playoff game after Sunday’s 33-14 triumph over the Giants and the Bengals punched their ticket to the postseason with a 13-10 victory over the Steelers.

Meaningless Games:

Cleveland at Pittsburgh

Jacksonville at Tennessee

N.Y Jets at Buffalo

Tampa Bay at Atlanta

Carolina at New Orleans

Oakland at San Diego

NFL
Dunkel

Week 17

Dallas at Washington
The Redskins look to build on their 5-0 ATS record in their last 5 games against Dallas. Washington is the pick (-3) according to Dunkel, which has the Redskins favored by 6. Dunkel Pick: Washington (-3). Here are all of this week's picks.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 30

Game 301-302: NY Jets at Buffalo (1:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: NY Jets 126.929; Buffalo 126.993
Dunkel Line: Even; 42
Vegas Line: Buffalo by 3 1/2; 39
Dunkel Pick: NY Jets (+3 1/2); Over

Game 303-304: Miami at New England (4:25 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Miami 133.093; New England 145.612
Dunkel Line: New England by 12 1/2; 44
Vegas Line: New England by 10; 47 1/2
Dunkel Pick: New England (-10); Under

Game 305-306: Baltimore at Cincinnati (1:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Baltimore 135.262; Cincinnati 136.088
Dunkel Line: Cincinnati by 1; 44
Vegas Line: Cincinnati by 3; 41
Dunkel Pick: Baltimore (+3); Over

Game 307-308: Cleveland at Pittsburgh (1:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Cleveland 127.481; Pittsburgh 133.167
Dunkel Line: Pittsburgh by 5 1/2; 35
Vegas Line: No Line
Dunkel Pick: N/A

Game 309-310: Houston at Indianapolis (1:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Houston 136.397; Indianapolis 128.003
Dunkel Line: Houston by 8 1/2; 43
Vegas Line: Houston by 6 1/2; 46 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Houston (-6 1/2); Under

Game 311-312: Jacksonville at Tennessee (1:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Jacksonville 119.324; Tennessee 128.863
Dunkel Line: Tennessee by 9 1/2; 44
Vegas Line: Tennessee by 3 1/2; 41 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Tennessee (-3 1/2); Over

Game 313-314: Philadelphia at NY Giants (1:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Philadelphia 126.476; NY Giants 130.988
Dunkel Line: NY Giants by 4 1/2; 50
Vegas Line: NY Giants by 7 1/2; 45 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Philadelphia (+7 1/2); Over

Game 315-316: Dallas at Washington (8:20 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Dallas 132.004; Washington 138.157
Dunkel Line: Washington by 6; 46
Vegas Line: Washington by 3; 50
Dunkel Pick: Washington (-3); Under

Game 317-318: Chicago at Detroit (1:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Chicago 129.177; Detroit 132.120
Dunkel Line: Detroit by 3; 48
Vegas Line: Chicago by 3; 44 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Detroit (+3); Over

Game 319-320: Green Bay at Minnesota (4:25 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Green Bay 137.563; Minnesota 132.130
Dunkel Line: Green Bay by 5 1/2; 42
Vegas Line: Green Bay by 3; 46 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Green Bay (-3); Under

Game 321-322: Tampa Bay at Atlanta (1:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Tampa Bay 123.549; Atlanta 140.547
Dunkel Line: Atlanta by 17; 38
Vegas Line: No Line
Dunkel Pick: N/A

Game 323-324: Carolina at New Orleans (1:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Carolina 136.370; New Orleans 132.828
Dunkel Line: Carolina by 3 1/2; 58
Vegas Line: New Orleans by 5 1/2; 54
Dunkel Pick: Carolina (+5 1/2); Over

Game 325-326: Kansas City at Denver (4:25 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Kansas City 122.574; Denver 137.006
Dunkel Line: Denver by 14 1/2; 46
Vegas Line: Denver by 17; 42
Dunkel Pick: Kansas City (+17); Over

Game 327-328: Oakland at San Diego (4:25 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Oakland 121.503; San Diego 137.082
Dunkel Line: San Diego by 15 1/2; 38
Vegas Line: No Line
Dunkel Pick: N/A

Game 329-330: Arizona at San Francisco (4:25 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Arizona 125.599; San Francisco 139.614
Dunkel Line: San Francisco by 14; 43
Vegas Line: San Francisco by 17; 38 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Arizona (+17); Over

Game 331-332: St. Louis at Seattle (4:25 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: St. Louis 127.510; Seattle 149.603
Dunkel Line: Seattle by 22; 37
Vegas Line: Seattle by 10 1/2; 41
Dunkel Pick: Seattle (-10 1/2); Under

NFL
Long Sheet

Week 17

Sunday, December 30

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NY JETS (6 - 9) at BUFFALO (5 - 10) - 12/30/2012, 1:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
NY JETS are 44-26 ATS (+15.4 Units) in road games versus division opponents since 1992.

Head-to-Head Series History
NY JETS is 4-1 against the spread versus BUFFALO over the last 3 seasons
NY JETS is 5-0 straight up against BUFFALO over the last 3 seasons
4 of 5 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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MIAMI (7 - 8) at NEW ENGLAND (11 - 4) - 12/30/2012, 4:25 PM
Top Trends for this game.
NEW ENGLAND is 152-112 ATS (+28.8 Units) against conference opponents since 1992.
NEW ENGLAND is 49-30 ATS (+16.0 Units) in the last 4 weeks of the regular season since 1992.
NEW ENGLAND is 8-23 ATS (-17.3 Units) in a home game where the total is between 45.5 and 49 points since 1992.

Head-to-Head Series History
NEW ENGLAND is 3-1 against the spread versus MIAMI over the last 3 seasons
NEW ENGLAND is 5-0 straight up against MIAMI over the last 3 seasons
4 of 5 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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BALTIMORE (10 - 5) at CINCINNATI (9 - 6) - 12/30/2012, 1:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
CINCINNATI is 110-143 ATS (-47.3 Units) against conference opponents since 1992.
CINCINNATI is 57-86 ATS (-37.6 Units) versus division opponents since 1992.

Head-to-Head Series History
CINCINNATI is 2-2 against the spread versus BALTIMORE over the last 3 seasons
BALTIMORE is 4-1 straight up against CINCINNATI over the last 3 seasons
3 of 5 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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CLEVELAND (5 - 10) at PITTSBURGH (7 - 8) - 12/30/2012, 1:00 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

Head-to-Head Series History
CLEVELAND is 3-2 against the spread versus PITTSBURGH over the last 3 seasons
PITTSBURGH is 4-1 straight up against CLEVELAND over the last 3 seasons
3 of 5 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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HOUSTON (12 - 3) at INDIANAPOLIS (10 - 5) - 12/30/2012, 1:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
HOUSTON is 4-13 ATS (-10.3 Units) in dome games since 1992.
INDIANAPOLIS is 7-1 ATS (+5.9 Units) in dome games this season.
HOUSTON is 21-10 ATS (+10.0 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
HOUSTON is 21-10 ATS (+10.0 Units) in all lined games over the last 2 seasons.
HOUSTON is 18-6 ATS (+11.4 Units) against conference opponents over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
HOUSTON is 3-2 against the spread versus INDIANAPOLIS over the last 3 seasons
HOUSTON is 3-2 straight up against INDIANAPOLIS over the last 3 seasons
4 of 5 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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JACKSONVILLE (2 - 13) at TENNESSEE (5 - 10) - 12/30/2012, 1:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
JACKSONVILLE is 6-15 ATS (-10.5 Units) when playing with 6 or less days rest over the last 2 seasons.
TENNESSEE is 27-44 ATS (-21.4 Units) as a favorite of 3.5 to 9.5 points since 1992.
TENNESSEE is 2-9 ATS (-7.9 Units) as a favorite over the last 2 seasons.
TENNESSEE is 12-29 ATS (-19.9 Units) as a home favorite of 3.5 to 7 points since 1992.
TENNESSEE is 1-10 ATS (-10.0 Units) versus division opponents over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
JACKSONVILLE is 4-1 against the spread versus TENNESSEE over the last 3 seasons
JACKSONVILLE is 3-2 straight up against TENNESSEE over the last 3 seasons
4 of 5 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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PHILADELPHIA (4 - 11) at NY GIANTS (8 - 7) - 12/30/2012, 1:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
PHILADELPHIA is 3-11 ATS (-9.1 Units) in all games this season.
PHILADELPHIA is 2-8 ATS (-6.8 Units) against conference opponents this season.
PHILADELPHIA is 3-11 ATS (-9.1 Units) in all lined games this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
PHILADELPHIA is 3-1 against the spread versus NY GIANTS over the last 3 seasons
PHILADELPHIA is 4-1 straight up against NY GIANTS over the last 3 seasons
4 of 5 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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DALLAS (8 - 7) at WASHINGTON (9 - 6) - 12/30/2012, 8:30 PM
Top Trends for this game.
DALLAS is 17-29 ATS (-14.9 Units) in all games over the last 3 seasons.
DALLAS is 17-29 ATS (-14.9 Units) in all lined games over the last 3 seasons.
DALLAS is 5-17 ATS (-13.7 Units) against conference opponents over the last 2 seasons.
DALLAS is 2-9 ATS (-7.9 Units) versus division opponents over the last 2 seasons.
DALLAS is 31-50 ATS (-24.0 Units) in the last 4 weeks of the regular season since 1992.
WASHINGTON is 9-2 ATS (+6.8 Units) versus division opponents over the last 2 seasons.
WASHINGTON is 50-81 ATS (-39.1 Units) as a favorite since 1992.

Head-to-Head Series History
WASHINGTON is 5-0 against the spread versus DALLAS over the last 3 seasons
DALLAS is 3-2 straight up against WASHINGTON over the last 3 seasons
3 of 5 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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CHICAGO (9 - 6) at DETROIT (4 - 11) - 12/30/2012, 1:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
CHICAGO is 9-29 ATS (-22.9 Units) in road games in December games since 1992.
CHICAGO is 12-28 ATS (-18.8 Units) in road games in the last 4 weeks of the regular season since 1992.
DETROIT is 7-16 ATS (-10.6 Units) against conference opponents over the last 2 seasons.
DETROIT is 1-7 ATS (-6.7 Units) in dome games this season.
DETROIT is 1-7 ATS (-6.7 Units) in games played on turf this season.
DETROIT is 4-13 ATS (-10.3 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.
DETROIT is 0-11 ATS (-12.1 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record in the second half of the season over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
DETROIT is 4-1 against the spread versus CHICAGO over the last 3 seasons
CHICAGO is 4-1 straight up against DETROIT over the last 3 seasons
3 of 5 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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GREEN BAY (11 - 4) at MINNESOTA (9 - 6) - 12/30/2012, 4:25 PM
Top Trends for this game.
GREEN BAY is 33-19 ATS (+12.1 Units) in all games over the last 3 seasons.
GREEN BAY is 33-19 ATS (+12.1 Units) in all lined games over the last 3 seasons.
GREEN BAY is 16-7 ATS (+8.3 Units) when playing with 6 or less days rest over the last 2 seasons.
GREEN BAY is 10-1 ATS (+8.9 Units) versus division opponents over the last 2 seasons.
GREEN BAY is 55-31 ATS (+20.9 Units) in December games since 1992.
GREEN BAY is 14-5 ATS (+8.5 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 3 seasons.
GREEN BAY is 56-33 ATS (+19.7 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record in the second half of the season since 1992.
GREEN BAY is 52-28 ATS (+21.2 Units) in the last 4 weeks of the regular season since 1992.

Head-to-Head Series History
GREEN BAY is 4-1 against the spread versus MINNESOTA over the last 3 seasons
GREEN BAY is 5-0 straight up against MINNESOTA over the last 3 seasons
3 of 5 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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TAMPA BAY (6 - 9) at ATLANTA (13 - 2) - 12/30/2012, 1:00 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

Head-to-Head Series History
ATLANTA is 2-2 against the spread versus TAMPA BAY over the last 3 seasons
ATLANTA is 4-1 straight up against TAMPA BAY over the last 3 seasons
3 of 5 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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CAROLINA (6 - 9) at NEW ORLEANS (7 - 8) - 12/30/2012, 1:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
NEW ORLEANS is 17-7 ATS (+9.3 Units) as a favorite over the last 2 seasons.
NEW ORLEANS is 6-0 ATS (+6.0 Units) as a home favorite of 3.5 to 7 points over the last 2 seasons.
NEW ORLEANS is 13-3 ATS (+9.7 Units) in home games over the last 2 seasons.
NEW ORLEANS is 13-3 ATS (+9.7 Units) in home lined games over the last 2 seasons.
NEW ORLEANS is 11-3 ATS (+7.7 Units) in a home game where the total is greater than or equal to 49.5 over the last 2 seasons.
NEW ORLEANS is 10-2 ATS (+7.8 Units) in home games against conference opponents over the last 2 seasons.
NEW ORLEANS is 9-2 ATS (+6.8 Units) in home games when playing with 6 or less days rest over the last 2 seasons.
NEW ORLEANS is 15-5 ATS (+9.5 Units) in dome games over the last 2 seasons.
NEW ORLEANS is 16-6 ATS (+9.4 Units) in games played on turf over the last 2 seasons.
NEW ORLEANS is 9-2 ATS (+6.8 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 2 seasons.
CAROLINA is 48-25 ATS (+20.5 Units) in December games since 1992.
CAROLINA is 66-38 ATS (+24.2 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record since 1992.
CAROLINA is 45-22 ATS (+20.8 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record in the second half of the season since 1992.
CAROLINA is 43-26 ATS (+14.4 Units) in the last 4 weeks of the regular season since 1992.
NEW ORLEANS is 24-45 ATS (-25.5 Units) in home games versus division opponents since 1992.

Head-to-Head Series History
CAROLINA is 3-2 against the spread versus NEW ORLEANS over the last 3 seasons
NEW ORLEANS is 4-1 straight up against CAROLINA over the last 3 seasons
3 of 5 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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KANSAS CITY (2 - 13) at DENVER (12 - 3) - 12/30/2012, 4:25 PM
Top Trends for this game.
DENVER is 9-1 ATS (+7.9 Units) as a favorite this season.
DENVER is 8-2 ATS (+5.8 Units) in games played on a grass field this season.
DENVER is 9-2 ATS (+6.8 Units) after 2 or more consecutive wins over the last 2 seasons.
KANSAS CITY is 15-4 ATS (+10.6 Units) as an underdog of 10 or more points since 1992.
DENVER is 45-69 ATS (-30.9 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record since 1992.
DENVER is 30-48 ATS (-22.8 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record in the second half of the season since 1992.

Head-to-Head Series History
DENVER is 3-2 against the spread versus KANSAS CITY over the last 3 seasons
DENVER is 3-2 straight up against KANSAS CITY over the last 3 seasons
4 of 5 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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OAKLAND (4 - 11) at SAN DIEGO (6 - 9) - 12/30/2012, 4:25 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

Head-to-Head Series History
OAKLAND is 3-2 against the spread versus SAN DIEGO over the last 3 seasons
OAKLAND is 3-2 straight up against SAN DIEGO over the last 3 seasons
3 of 5 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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ARIZONA (5 - 10) at SAN FRANCISCO (10 - 4 - 1) - 12/30/2012, 4:25 PM
Top Trends for this game.
ARIZONA is 0-6 ATS (-6.6 Units) in road games revenging a loss against opponent over the last 3 seasons.
SAN FRANCISCO is 21-11 ATS (+8.9 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
SAN FRANCISCO is 21-11 ATS (+8.9 Units) in all lined games over the last 2 seasons.
SAN FRANCISCO is 12-4 ATS (+7.6 Units) in home games over the last 2 seasons.
SAN FRANCISCO is 12-4 ATS (+7.6 Units) in home lined games over the last 2 seasons.
SAN FRANCISCO is 15-5 ATS (+9.5 Units) in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
SAN FRANCISCO is 4-1 against the spread versus ARIZONA over the last 3 seasons
SAN FRANCISCO is 4-1 straight up against ARIZONA over the last 3 seasons
3 of 5 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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ST LOUIS (7 - 7 - 1) at SEATTLE (10 - 5) - 12/30/2012, 4:25 PM
Top Trends for this game.
ST LOUIS is 93-126 ATS (-45.6 Units) against conference opponents since 1992.
ST LOUIS is 46-69 ATS (-29.9 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record since 1992.
SEATTLE is 11-4 ATS (+6.6 Units) in all games this season.
SEATTLE is 11-4 ATS (+6.6 Units) in all lined games this season.
SEATTLE is 7-0 ATS (+7.0 Units) in home games this season.
SEATTLE is 7-0 ATS (+7.0 Units) in home lined games this season.
SEATTLE is 17-6 ATS (+10.4 Units) against conference opponents over the last 2 seasons.
SEATTLE is 10-1 ATS (+8.9 Units) when playing with 6 or less days rest this season.
SEATTLE is 8-0 ATS (+8.0 Units) in home games versus division opponents over the last 3 seasons.
SEATTLE is 7-0 ATS (+7.0 Units) in home games in games played on turf this season.
SEATTLE is 8-0 ATS (+8.0 Units) in December games over the last 2 seasons.
SEATTLE is 12-3 ATS (+8.7 Units) revenging a loss against opponent over the last 3 seasons.
ST LOUIS is 10-3 ATS (+6.7 Units) as an underdog this season.
SEATTLE is 53-80 ATS (-35.0 Units) off a division game since 1992.
SEATTLE is 22-42 ATS (-24.2 Units) off a win against a division rival since 1992.

Head-to-Head Series History
SEATTLE is 3-2 against the spread versus ST LOUIS over the last 3 seasons
SEATTLE is 3-2 straight up against ST LOUIS over the last 3 seasons
4 of 5 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons