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Add comment November 28th, 2009
NFL Week 5 Picks from the team at BetOnline. Compare this popular online sportsbook with other offshore sportsbooks rated and recommended for US and Canadian bettors.
NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS @ DENVER BRONCOS
Sunday, October 11 at 4:15 p.m. ET
Spread: Patriots -3
Protégé meets pupil when Bill Belichick’s Patriots visit Josh McDaniels’ Broncos. Sooner or later, football fans are going to have to admit the Broncos (4-0) are for real. New England (3-1) poses Denver’s stiffest challenge yet, especially with Tom Brady looking more comfortable each week.
ATLANTA FALCONS @ SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS
Sunday, October 11 at 4:05 p.m. ET
Spread: 49ers -2.5
The Falcons (2-1) surprised everyone with an 11-win season and playoff appearance last year—are the 49ers (2-1) on a similar path in 2009? Matt Ryan and Michael Turner will try slowing down San Fran’s postseason drive, but Patrick Willis and the 49ers defense have been nearly impenetrable.
HOUSTON TEXANS @ ARIZONA CARDINALS
Sunday, October 11 at 4:15 p.m. ET
Spread: Cardinals -5.5
Bet the over on this one. With Matt Schaub, Kurt Warner, Larry Fitzgerald, Andre Johnson, Anquan Boldin, Steve Slaton and Beanie Wells in the mix, Arizona (1-2) and Houston’s (2-2) offenses look like fantasy football all-star teams. Both teams are desperate for wins so they’ll take no prisoners on Sunday.
CINCINNATI BENGALS @ BALTIMORE RAVENS
Sunday, October 11 at 1:00 p.m. ET
Spread: Ravens -9
The Bengals (3-1) scraped by the lowly Browns last week; now, with a win, they can claim first-place in the AFC North. The Ravens (3-1), who own the second-highest scoring offense in the NFL, aren’t going to give it up easily—and they have something to prove after a loss to New England.
INDIANAPOLIS COLTS @ TENNESSEE TITANS
Sunday, October 11 at 8:20 p.m. ET
Spread: Colts -3.5
The Titans (0-4) have already lost more games in four weeks than they did in four months last year—now it’s do-or-die time against the Colts (4-0). A win keeps Tennessee’s razor-thin playoff hopes alive; a loss means we’ll probably see Vince Young take over at quarterback as planning for 2010 begins.
NEW YORK JETS @ MIAMI DOLPHINS
Monday, October 12 at 8:30 p.m. ET
Spread: Jets -2
Rookie quarterback Mark Sanchez came crashing back to earth last weekend in a blowout to the Saints. The Jets (3-1) could have their hands full with Miami (1-3) this weekend; wins in the AFC East never come easily, and the Dolphins crushed the Bills in Week 4.
DALLAS COWBOYS @ KANSAS CITY CHIEFS
Sunday, October 11 at 1:00 p.m. ET
Spread: Cowboys -8.5
Few could have predicted a Week 5 game against the hapless Chiefs (0-4) would mean so much to Dallas (2-2). Tony Romo, Wade Phillips, the Cowboys cheerleaders—everyone is taking heat in Big D right now. If the Cowboys don’t get their act together fast, winning the NFC East is nothing but a pipe dream.
OAKLAND RAIDERS @ NEW YORK GIANTS
Sunday, October 11 at 1:00 p.m. ET
Spread: Giants -16
It’s early, but the Giants (4-0) look like an early Super Bowl favorite. The defense has been dominant while Steve Smith has flourished as Plaxico Burress’ replacement. That’s bad news for a Raiders (1-3) team that is completely melting down; in fact, their coach might literally be arrested this week.
PITTSBURGH STEELERS @ DETROIT LIONS
Sunday, October 11 at 1:00 p.m. ET
Spread: Steelers -10.5
The Steelers (2-2) bounced back last week thanks to a dominating performance by second-year back Rashard Mendenhall. If Pittsburgh’s new-found ground game is as good as advertised, the Lions (1-3) don’t stand a chance—especially with rookie quarterback Matt Stafford nursing a knee injury.
MINNESOTA VIKINGS @ ST. LOUIS RAMS
Sunday, October 11 at 1:00 p.m. ET
Spread: Vikings -10
Brett Favre had his most impressive game with the Vikings (4-0) last week in a dominating effort against the Packers. Now Minnesota must be wary of not looking past the floundering Rams (0-4), as the Ravens visit the Metrodome in two weeks.
WASHINGTON REDSKINS @ CAROLINA PANTHERS
Sunday, October 11 at 1:00 p.m. ET
Spread: Panthers -3.5
It doesn’t feel like it, but the Redskins (2-2) are still very much in playoff contention. The winless Panthers (0-3) face an uphill battle to sneak into the postseason; if they’re going to pull off a miracle, it must start with a win over Washington.
TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS @ PHILADELPHIA EAGLES
Sunday, October 11 at 1:00 p.m. ET
Spread: Eagles -14.5
Donovan McNabb and Brian Westbrook are practicing this week and both are expected to start for the Eagles (2-1) this weekend. With Tampa Bay (0-4) allowing over 25 points per game, this should be a nice ease-in game for the duo.
JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS @ SEATTLE SEAHAWKS
Sunday, October 11 at 4:15 p.m. ET
Spread: NO LINE
The scrappy Jaguars (2-2) are keeping themselves in the playoff discussion thanks to two straight divisional victories. Seattle (1-3) still has a shot in the underwhelming NFC West, but it could use a healthy Matt Hasselbeck this week; he’s recovering from cracked ribs and his status is unknown.
CLEVELAND BROWNS @ BUFFALO BILLS
Sunday, October 11 at 1:00 p.m. ET
Spread: Bills -6
The struggling Browns (0-4) took Cincy to overtime last week but the meltdown continues—receiver Braylon Edwards was shipped off to the Jets. Buffalo (1-3) was absolutely crushed by the Dolphins but beating the winless Browns will right the ship.
Add comment October 10th, 2009
NFL Week 4 Picks from the team at BetOnline. Compare this popular online sportsbook with other offshore sportsbooks rated and recommended for US and Canadian bettors.
SAN DIEGO CHARGERS @ PITTSBURGH STEELERS
Sunday, October 4 – 8:20 p.m. ET
Spread: Steelers -6.5
The Super Bowl Champion Steelers have stumbled out of the gate, dropping to 1-2 after last week’s loss to the Bengals. Beating the Chargers could light the fire, but losing will put Pittsburgh in a big hole in the AFC North.
In-depth analysis.
GREEN BAY PACKERS @ MINNESOTA VIKINGS
Monday, October 5 – 8:30 p.m. ET
Spread: Vikings -3.5
This is Brett Favre’s first chance at revenge against his former team. Need we say more? Well, new Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers probably has something to say about it.
In-depth analysis.
BALTIMORE RAVENS @ NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS
Sunday, October 4 – 1:05 p.m. ET
Spread: Patriots -2
Can Tom Brady and the Patriots get back to the top of the hill, or are the Baltimore Ravens the AFC’s new heavyweight? We’ll find out Sunday.
In-depth analysis.
NEW YORK JETS @ NEW ORLEANS SAINTS
Sunday, October 4 – 4:05 p.m. ET
Spread: Saints -7
“The best defense is a good offense” or “Defense wins championships”? No, it’s not a title game, but one of those maxims will be reinforced when the high-scoring Saints play the defensive-minded Jets.
In-depth analysis.
DALLAS COWBOYS @ DENVER BRONCOS
Sunday, October 4 – 4:15 p.m. ET
Spread: Cowboys -3
Finally, a real test for Denver. The Broncos defense has played unbelievable, but this is the first NFL-caliber offense they will face this season.
In-depth analysis.
NEW YORK GIANTS @ KANSAS CITY CHIEFS
Sunday, October 4 – 1:00 p.m. ET
Spread: Giants -8.5
The Giants are in midseason form after destroying Tampa Bay last weekend, but they need to be careful not to look past the Chiefs, who are fighting for their first win of 2009.
In-depth analysis.
DETROIT LIONS @ CHICAGO BEARS
Sunday, October 4 – 1:00 p.m. ET
Spread: Bears -10
Can the Lions deliver their second straight victory after stopping a 19-game losing streak? Not if Jay Cutler and the Bears have anything to say about it.
In-depth analysis.
BUFFALO BILLS @ MIAMI DOLPHINS
Sunday, October 4 – 4:05 p.m. ET
Spread: Bills -2
Miami and Buffalo each had reasons for optimism heading into 2009, but most of them have already been flushed down the drain. The clock on the Terrell Owens Time Bomb has started.
In-depth analysis.
ST. LOUIS RAMS @ SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS
Sunday, October 4 – 4:15 p.m. ET
Spread: 49ers -9.5
The Niners suffered a tough loss against Minnesota last week, but a victory over the Rams will give them a 3-1 record, including three division wins. They’ll have to do it without Frank Gore, though.
In-depth analysis.
CINCINNATI BENGALS @ CLEVELAND BROWNS
Sunday, October 4 – 1:00 p.m. ET
Spread: Bengals -5.5
The Bengals would like to believe they can compete in the AFC North by knocking off Pittsburgh next week, but they have to beat teams they’re supposed to—like Cleveland—to do it.
In-depth analysis.
TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS @ WASHINGTON REDSKINS
Sunday, October 4 – 1:00 p.m. ET
Spread: Redskins -7
It’ll be a fight of field goals in this one, as both teams are struggling on offense. Both coaches could be on the hot seat, too, so expect some desperation and creativity.
In-depth analysis.
SEATTLE SEAHAWKS @ INDIANAPOLIS COLTS
Sunday, October 4 – 1:00 p.m. ET
Spread: Colts -10.5
Peyton Manning has thrown for 300 yards in three straight games; he’ll try to make it four against the struggling Seahawks, who could be without Matt Hasselbeck again.
OAKLAND RAIDERS @ HOUSTON TEXANS
Sunday, October 4 – 1:00 p.m. ET
Spread: Texans -9
Houston has fallen flat on its face after an offseason filled with playoff hype. The Texans have been accused of being chokers and, if they lose to the Raiders, we’ll know it’s true.
TENNESSEE TITANS @ JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS
Sunday, October 4 – 1:00 p.m. ET
Spread: Titans -3
Incredibly, the Titans have already lost three games—as many as they did all of last season. If they’re going to salvage their playoff hopes they must beat the Jaguars.
Add comment October 2nd, 2009
Here’s a second take on the Week Three NFL Betting action, this time from the team at Bodog Sportsbook.
It looks so easy watching it on television – just advance the ball 10 yards, and you get four downs to do it. But football teams in the pros and in college have to design increasingly complex offensive strategies to move the ball downfield against defenders that get bigger, faster, and stronger every year. It can take a game or two to work the bugs out. Not coincidentally, the over was the winning football bet in both the NFL (9-7) and FBS (34-30) last week.
We’ll see if the nation’s offenses continue to mature this week. All times are Eastern; for the latest football betting lines, visit Bodog Sports.
Saturday: No. 9 Miami-Florida at No. 11 Virginia Tech (3:30 p.m., ABC)
The Hurricanes (2-0 SU and ATS) are 3-point road favorites and getting plenty of attention in their return to the national spotlight. The offense is rolling with QB Jacory Harris (five touchdowns and five picks in two games) earning some early Heisman buzz as a sophomore. And QB Tyrod Taylor finagled a win for Virginia Tech (2-1 SU, 1-2 ATS) last week against Nebraska. But the Cornhuskers run defense was good enough to cash in as a 5-point puppy, and Miami is also stout against the run. Taylor picked up negative yardage in each of Tech’s two ATS losses. The ‘Canes are 1-7 ATS in their last eight yearly visits to Lane Stadium, with the under at 5-2.
Saturday: Iowa at No. 5 Penn State (8:00 p.m., ABC)
Last year’s 11-win season (7-4-1 ATS) and trip to the Rose Bowl put at least a temporary end to the questions surrounding the abilities of Penn State’s octogenarian coach, Joe Paterno. The Lions are off to another strong start at 3-0, but only 0-3 ATS, failing to cover spreads of nearly 30 points in each game. They’re laying only 10 points (–105) this week, and it’s to the only team that beat them in the regular season last year, the Hawkeyes (3-0 SU, 2-0 ATS). Iowa will blitz Penn State QB Darryl Clark (eight TDs, three INTs) and take advantage of the holes in his offensive line. That should keep the game fairly close as Iowa attempts to mask its own deficiencies in protecting QB Ricky Stanzi (five TDs, three INTs). The underdog is 7-2 against the football odds in their last nine matchups.
Sunday: Tennessee at N.Y. Jets (1:00 p.m., CBS)
The Jets are one of this year’s early and pleasant surprises at 2-0 SU and ATS under first-year head coach Rex Ryan and first-year QB Mark Sanchez (91.3 passer rating). The Titans, on the other hand, are 0-2 (1-1 ATS) after losing to Pittsburgh and Houston by a field goal. The spread for this matchup is also Jets –3 (+105) with a low, low total of 37. Without the gigantic and versatile Albert Haynesworth on the defensive line, Tennessee’s pass rush has taken a step back this year, while Sanchez is getting excellent protection from left tackle D’Brickashaw Ferguson.
Sunday: New Orleans at Buffalo (4:05 p.m., FOX)
The Bills have been even more surprising than the Jets, nearly upsetting the Patriots (-13) in the season opener and beating the Buccaneers (+4) quite handily. QB Trent Edwards (104.9 passer rating) has responded nicely to the simplified playbook of new offensive co-ordinator Alex Van Pelt, although he has been sacked six times already. The Saints’ offense exploded in a pair of easy wins over the Lions (+14) and the injured Eagles (+2.5). That gives us a massive total of 52 points for Sunday’s matchup with the Bills getting six points (-105) on their own field. Buffalo is 7-3 ATS in its last 10 home games as an underdog.
Sunday: Indianapolis at Arizona (8:20 p.m., NBC)
Although Peyton Manning (110.3 passer rating) has a pair of 300-yard passing games and a pair of victories under his belt, the Colts (1-1 ATS) are gaining very little on the ground and were fortunate to win both times. The Cardinals (1-1 SU and ATS) rebounded from a poor opener to beat Jacksonville (–3) in one of QB Kurt Warner’s finest games ever: 24-for-26, 243 yards, two TDs. The Cards are also getting positive results from first-round pick Beanie Wells (5.2 yards per carry). They’re 2.5-point home faves on Sunday night with a total of 48.
Football season is in full swing – and the Bodog Sportsbook has all the Football lines to keep you going!
Add comment September 25th, 2009
Here’s the latest installation of picks on the NFL betting action from the team at BetOnline sportsbook. More in-depth game analysis is available on site at this US friendly bookmaker.
>> Review and rating of BetOnline.com
ATLANTA FALCONS @ NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS
SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 27TH – 1:00 PM ET
Spread: Patriots -4
Tom Brady and the Patriots are struggling to regain their 2007 form, while the Falcons—last year’s surprise playoff team—look even better this season.
INDIANAPOLIS COLTS @ ARIZONA CARDINALS
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 27 – 8:20 PM ET
Spread: Cardinals -2
With Peyton Manning, Reggie Wayne, Kurt Warner and Larry Fitzgerald involved, expect the skies to be filled with footballs on Sunday night.
TENNESSEE TITANS @ NEW YORK JETS
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 27 – 1:00 PM ET
Spread: Jets -2.5
Can Rex Ryan keep the magic rolling with his impressive Jets defense? The Titans better hope not because they’re staring 0-3 in the face.
CAROLINA PANTHERS @ DALLAS COWBOYS
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 28 – 8:30 PM ET
Spread: Cowboys -9
Tony Romo will be trying for his first win in Dallas’ new stadium; Jake Delhomme will be trying to keep his job.
SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS @ MINNESOTA VIKINGS
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 27 – 1:00 PM ET
Spread: Vikings -7
This is a battle of two of the NFL’s best running backs. Adrian Peterson leads the league with 272 yards on the ground; last week, Frank Gore did his best Adrian Peterson impression and ripped off 207 yards and two scores.
MIAMI DOLPHINS @ SAN DIEGO CHARGERS
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 27 – 4:15 PM ET
Spread: Chargers -6
The Dolphins are desperate to prove they weren’t flukes last year, but they could be in over their head against Philip Rivers, who threw for 436 yards against Baltimore last week.
NEW ORLEANS SAINTS @ BUFFALO BILLS
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 27 – 4:05 PM ET
Spread: Saints -5
Averaging 46.5 points per game, New Orleans’ offense looks unstoppable. Buffalo will turn to rising star Fred Jackson for points after he ran for 163 yards against Tampa last week.
CHICAGO BEARS @ SEATTLE SEAHAWKS
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 27 – 4:05 PM ET
Spread: Bears -1.5
Bears fans can breathe a sigh of relief after Jay Cutler got a win against Pittsburgh. Seattle fans should be worried, though—Matt Hasselbeck injured his ribs in last week’s loss to the Niners.
GREEN BAY PACKERS @ ST. LOUIS RAMS
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 27 – 1:00 PM ET
Spread: Packers -6.5
The Packers suffered a surprising loss to the Bengals and their offensive line is in complete disarray, but it’s debatable whether the Rams, who have been outscored 37-7 this year, can take advantage.
KANSAS CITY CHIEFS @ PHILADELPHIA EAGLES
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 27 – 1:00 PM ET
Spread: Eagles -9
The Chiefs gave up a late fourth-quarter touchdown drive to Oakland, dropping them to 0-2. Philly was spanked by the Saints and will be looking to rebound against the lowly Chiefs.
JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS @ HOUSTON TEXANS
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 27 – 1:00 PM ET
Spread: Texans -3.5
Houston bounced back from an embarrassing Week 1 loss, largely thanks to Matt Schaub (357 yards, four touchdowns). Jacksonville has a tough task ahead to get its first win of the year.
WASHINGTON REDSKINS @ DETROIT LIONS
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 27 – 1:00 PM ET
Spread: Redskins -6.5
Detroit and Washington are both 0-2, so something has to give. Don’t expect a lot of points in this one—they combined for just 20 points last week.
NEW YORK GIANTS @ TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 27 – 1:00 PM ET
Spread: Giants -6.5
New York hasn’t missed a beat without Plaxico Burress, opening the season with two wins over division rivals. Tampa Bay will need a better effort than what its shown to knock off the Giants.
PITTSBURGH STEELERS @ CINCINNATI BENGALS
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 27 – 4:15 PM ET
Spread: Steelers -4
The Steelers need their running game to get going and help Ben Roethlisberger out. Speaking of running games, Cincy’s Cedric Benson is reviving his career after rushing for 141 yards against Green Bay.
CLEVELAND BROWNS @ BALTIMORE RAVENS
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 27 – 1:00 PM ET
Spread: Ravens -13
Thanks to quarterback Joe Flacco and a great running game, the Ravens’ offense is more explosive than it’s ever been. Cleveland will have a tough time tarnishing Baltimore’s 2-0 record.
DENVER BRONCOS @ OAKLAND RAIDERS
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 27 – 4:15 PM ET
Spread: Raiders -1
After a terrible offseason many expected the Broncos to plummet, yet here we are and they’re 2-0. A win will put Oakland in a tie for first in the AFC West, though, and the Raiders showed some mental toughness in last week’s comeback against Kansas City.
Add comment September 25th, 2009
Here’s a quick run down on each NFL betting line from last weekend. The Saints’ offense looks unstoppable, the Jets continued their impressive start to the season, and the talented Titans surprisingly slipped into an 0-2 hole.
Falcons 28 Panthers 20
Matt Ryan continued his superb play with three touchdown passes. Much to the surprise of online sports betting fans, Jake Delhomme was respectable after last week’s meltdown – but the Panthers are still in a 0-2 hole.
Vikings 27 Lions 13
Detroit staked a 10-0 lead but the Vikings rallied thanks to 100-plus total yards from Adrian Peterson. Rookie Percy Harvin looked great (134 total yards and a touchdown).
Bengals 31 Packers 24
Green Bay’s offensive line woes continued in this stunning upset. Antwan Odom had five of Cincinnati’s six sacks and the Packer offense would have been completely hopeless without two takeaways from the defense (one for a score).
Texans 34 Titans 31
Houston’s explosive offense was back in from with Matt Schaub throwing for 357 yards and four touchdowns. Titans running back Chris Henry was sensational in defeat (284 yards and three scores), but now 0-2 Tennessee faces a long, uphill battle.
Raiders 13 Chiefs 10
It was an ugly game, but JaMarcus Russell finally showed some development by leading a game-winning drive—Darren McFadded punched in the go-ahead touchdown with a minute left in the game. Matt Cassel underwhelmed in his Chiefs debut.
Jets 16 Patriots 9
Rex Ryan has completely turned around this Jets defense, which swarmed and pestered Pats quarterback Tom Brady. Brady doesn’t look like his old self yet and now New York has sole possession of the AFC East—something no sportsbook bettor could have predicted.
Saints 48 Eagles 22
Drew Brees and the Saints show no signs of slowing down; this offense is downright terrifying. The Eagles, meanwhile, have a bevy of problems to sort out on defense. Kevin Kolb moved the ball in place of the injured Donovan McNabb but he turned it over three times.
Redskins 9 Rams 7
The Redskins have yet to find an identity on offense and they’re lucky to escape with a win. The Rams, meanwhile, could use a better effort from Marc Bulger (125 yards passing).
Cardinals 31 Jaguars 17
Kurt Warner rebounded from a poor Week 1 showing to break the NFL record for completion percentage in a single game. The Jags defense hit Warner just once — not nearly good enough.
49ers 23 Seahawks 10
Frank Gore turned back the clock with a masterful performance (207 yards, including touchdowns of 79 and 80 yards) while the Niners “D” suffocated the passing game. Matt Hasselbeck suffered a rib injury and his status is questionable.
Bills 33 Buccaneers 20
Terrell Owens caught his first touchdown as a Bill, but the real story behind their offense is Fred Jackson, who rolled up 163 yards on 28 carries; Marshawn Lynch should be concerned. Tampa Bay’s defense had another brutal week, while the running game fell back to earth after a nice Week 1 effort.
Bears 17 Steelers 14
Bears fans can breathe a sigh of relieve as Jay Cutler looked much better (two touchdowns, no turnovers). Unless Big Ben is going to throw for 350 yards every week, the Pittsburgh running game needs to get going fast.
Ravens 31 Chargers 26
Suddenly, Baltimore’s offense looks very intimidating. Joe Flacco is off to a nice start in his second year, while the Ravens running game features a nice rotation of backs. This was a tough loss for San Diego, especially after learning a day earlier that defensive tackle Jamal Williams will miss the season.
Broncos 27 Browns 6
After all the hand-wringing in the offseason, the Broncos are 2-0. They got 17 carries from rookie Knowshon Moreno, which is a very positive step. Cleveland’s offense was pathetic, generating just 200 yards while turning it over three times.
Giants 33 Cowboys 31
No Plaxico Burress? No problem. Steve Smith and Mario Manningham combined for 20 catches, 284 yards and two touchdowns for the Giants. Dallas remained in this game only because of a dominant running game (251 yards, three scores), as Tony Romo threw three picks and played terrible.
Colts 27 Dolphins 23
In Monday night football betting, Ronnie Brown showcased the Wild Cat at its finest by rolling up 136 yards and reaching the end zone twice. It was all for naught, though, as Peyton Manning and Dallas Clark (183 yards, touchdown) simply outgunned Miami.
If you’re looking for popular, safe sportsbooks online for NFL betting you can’t beat Bookmaker.com (for US and Canada based bettors) and Bet365 (for Europeans and UK punters).
Add comment September 22nd, 2009
Here’s a follow-up to our last post previewing the first week of the NFL action… (Courtesy of the team at BetOnline.com – compare popular online sportsbooks for American and Canadian sports bettors)
NFL betting fans have a lot to digest after a busy Week 1 of action. There weren’t many upsets, but there was certainly enough surprises to keep bettors on their toes moving forward. Here’s a brief recap of each game, with key news and notes, to get you up to speed for NFL Week 2 betting.
Steelers 13 Titans 10 (OT)
The Steelers won, but they suffered a big blow after losing safety Troy Polamalu to a knee injury. Pittsburgh also struggled to run the ball and could rely on the pass more heavily this year. The Titans looked fine without Albert Haynesworth on defense, and they may have solved their receiver problems with Justin Gage and Kenny Britt, who combined for 163 yards and a score.
Falcons 19 Dolphins 7
Many speculated the Dolphins would crash with a new, much-tougher schedule this season; looks like they were right as Miami’s offense struggled (four turnovers). Tony Gonzalez (73 yards, one touchdown) looks like a great addition for quarterback Matt Ryan, who showed no signs of a sophomore slump.
Broncos 12 Bengals 7
If you subtract Kyle Orton’s fluky, last-second bomb to Brandon Stokley, Denver’s offense did nothing (215 yards). Unless the running game picks up or Brandon Marshall turns things up fast, this is going to be a pitiful unit. Some minor Bengals preseason hype is quickly erased after Carson Palmer tossed two interceptions. Stay away from Cincy against the Packers this week.
Vikings 34 Browns 20
Brett Favre didn’t show much in his Vikings debut, and he won’t have to if Adrian Peterson keeps this up (180 yards, three scores). Minny defense stood strong, forcing two turnovers. On Cleveland’s side, Brady Quinn did little to solidify his position as the team’s starting quarterback. Back-up Derek Anderson is lurking.
Indianapolis 14 Jacksonville 12
David Garrard is looking more and more like a one-year wonder (14/28, 122 yards, no touchdowns). The Jacksonville defense needs to create more pressure after hitting Peyton Manning just twice all day. Speaking of Manning, another day, another 300-yard passing effort. Anthony Gonzalez was lost to a knee injury, though. Expect more action in Dallas Clark and Reggie Wayne’s corners.
Saints 45 Lions 27
Six touchdown passes for Drew Brees; let the MVP talks begin. Mike Bell look great as the starting back (143 yards) and could steal some more carries when Pierre Thomas returns. Rookie Matt Stafford was erratic for Detroit, completing less than half his passes and tossing three picks. Stay away from the Lions.
Cowboys 34 Buccaneers 21
Obviously Tony Romo isn’t worried about losing Terrell Owens after throwing for 353 yards and three touchdowns. Oddly, no sacks or turnovers for the Dallas D—don’t expect that to become a trend. Tampa Bay got a great day from its running backs (174 yards, 5.6 average, two touchdowns) and will need a lot more of that to stay competitive this season.
Eagles 38 Panthers 10
Jake Delhomme looks finished; he’s turned it over 11 times in his last two starts. That’s bad news for the Panthers because they have no one else to turn to. Donovan McNabb broke his ribs on a touchdown run, so either Kevin Kolb or recently signed Jeff Garcia will likely start this week.
Ravens 38 Chiefs 24
Joe Flacco looked great, throwing for 307 yards and three touchdowns. The Baltimore running game also dominated, racking up 198 yards and a pair of scores. Brodie Croyle played decently in place of injured Matt Cassel, but the running game (29 yards) and defense (501 yards) were awful—two trends you can expect this season.
Jets 24 Texans 7
Sleeper hype for the Texans might have been premature. Houston had no answers for a swarming Jets defense, which Rex Ryan had operating at full bore. Rookie quarterback Mark Sanchez was solid if unspectacular in his New York debut.
Giants 23 Redskins 17
New York’s defense held Washington to just 272 yards while creating two turnovers and a touchdown. The Giants offense will have to be a little sharper against the Cowboys next week, though. ‘Skins quarterback Jason Campbell didn’t look particularly confident, and seven of Washington’s points came off special teams.
49ers 20 Cardinals 16
Mike Singletary has turned this defense around, holding the prolific Cardinals to just 299 yards and 16 points. Offensively San Fran must bring more to the table to stay competitive, and that begins with Frank Gore (22 carries, 30 yards). Kurt Warner looked out of synch for Arizona and, surprise, the Cards couldn’t run the football.
Seahawks 28 Rams 0
Matt Hasselbeck and tight end Jon Carlson made some sweet music together, hooking up for 95 yards and a pair of touchdowns. Even Julius Jones had it going with 117 yards and a score. Marc Bulger got beat up again, taking three sacks and numerous hits.
Packers 21 Bears 15
In a much-anticipated quarterback duel, defense was the key to the game. Jay Cutler looked impatient and awful in his Bears debut, throwing a career-high four interceptions. Aaron Rodgers tossed a late game-winning touchdown for Green Bay, but he was harassed mercilessly by the Bears’ defensive line (four sacks). Both teams have room for improvement in Week 2.
Patriots 25 Bills 24
Horrific meltdown for the Bills. The much-talked about hurry-up offense produced just 276 yards, although Fred Jackson looked impressive in the loss (140 total yards and a score). Tom Brady struggled with accuracy and didn’t go downfield much, but he still finished with 378 yards and two fourth-quarter touchdown passes. Sportsbook fans take note: he’s back.
Chargers 24 Raiders 20
Oakland was surprisingly feisty. The running game was solid, though JaMarcus Russell struggled (two picks). Richard Seymour was brilliant in his Raider debut, though, registering six tackles and two sacks. The Chargers gutted their way through this one. LaDainian Tomlinson is obviously going to lose playing time to Darren Sproles (14 touches each), and the former didn’t show the same burst he had a few years ago.
Add comment September 15th, 2009
Here’s the latest NFL heads-up from the team at BetOnline Sportsbook. For more on BetOnline check out the latest BetOnline Review and Rating on site at GoonersGuide.com and compare BetOnline to the other 3 sportsbooks especially popular with US based bettors.
Week 1 NFL picks are ubiquitous right about now so let’s throw ours into the hat. Online betting cappers need to know everyone’s picks and everyone’s insight, so as we get set to kickoff the NFL season, here are our Week 1 NFL picks:
Tennessee Titans @ Pittsburgh Steelers
This is a revenge game from Week 16 last year as the Titans took it to the Steelers. Now, on opening night, the Steelers return the favor. Chris Johnson and LenDale White get shut down while Kerry Collins is baited into mistakes.
Week 1 NFL Picks: Steelers -6
Miami Dolphins @ Atlanta Falcons
Falcons are overrated while the Dolphins are still underrated. Miami goes to the Georgiadome, plays a disciplined game and exposes the Falcons defense. Miami wins outright.
Week 1 NFL Picks: Dolphins +4
Kansas City Chiefs @ Baltimore Ravens
Chiefs just fired their offensive coordinator and starting quarterback Matt Cassel has a sprained MCL. Playing in Baltimore is not the place where you cure offensive issues.
Week 1 NFL Picks: Ravens -13
Philadelphia Eagles @ Carolina Panthers
Eagles are the popular pick but the Panthers were 8-0 at home last season. They’ll be able to run the ball against the Eagles, which means they’ll probably win.
Week 1 NFL Picks: Panthers +1
Denver Broncos @ Cincinnati Bengals
This is a statement game for the Cincinnati Bengals and Marvin Lewis. Their team is healthy now and they need to win these types of games if Lewis is to keep his job. Denver is a wreck and their defense won’t be able to do much on the road in Week 1.
Week 1 NFL Picks: Bengals -4
Minnesota Vikings @ Cleveland Browns
Trap alert! Vikings only a four-point favorite in Cleveland? Cleveland gets the job done outright. We’re not exactly sure how they do it, but this is a fishy line.
Week 1 NFL Picks: Browns +4
New York Jets @ Houston Texans
Don’t believe the Texans hype. The Jets defense is for real and they are going to stifle that supposedly awesome Texans offense. Jets squeak one out at Reliant Stadium.
Week 1 NFL Picks: Jets +4.5
Jacksonville Jaguars @ Indianapolis Colts
The Colts are a seven-point favorite in the sportsbook and, considering they dominate this series, why not? All they have to do is slow down Maurice Jones-Drew and pick apart a soft Jags defense. Take it to the house.
Week 1 NFL Picks: Colts -7
Dallas Cowboys @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The Buccaneers will keep it close for a quarter or so and then the Cowboys will pull away. What are your thoughts about statue Byron Leftwich going up against DeMarcus Ware?
Week 1 NFL Picks: Cowboys -6
San Francisco 49ers @ Arizona Cardinals
NFL betting fans should note that the Cardinals are a much different team at home than they are on the road. San Francisco just doesn’t have the tools to match points with Arizona.
Week 1 NFL Picks: Cardinals -6.5
Washington Redskins @ New York Giants
The Redskins and Giants games are always close, so why would anyone lay the points? The Giants have looked shaky in the preseason and this game should be right around a field goal. Take the Redskins as they win this contest outright.
Week 1 NFL Picks: Redskins +6.5
St. Louis Rams @ Seattle Seahawks
The Seahawks are clearly the better team and their defense could be one of the best in the NFL. Look for them to shut down Steven Jackson and force the Rams to be one-dimensional on the road. That won’t work.
Week 1 NFL Picks: Seahawks -7
Chicago Bears @ Green Bay Packers
While all eyes are on the Chicago Bears and the Minnesota Vikings in the NFC North, keep an eye on the Packers. They are underrated bunch and are one of the youngest teams in the league. They’ll make a statement in Week 1.
Week 1 NFL Picks: Packers -3.5
Buffalo Bills @ New England Patriots
The Patriots are going to roll in this contest. With Tom Brady back in the lineup, they’re going to give the Bills a beating. The Bills offense has had a lot of problems in the preseason and their offensive line is a complete mess. Good luck to them matching points with one of the best offenses in the NFL.
Week 1 NFL Picks: Patriots -10.5
San Diego Chargers @ Oakland Raiders
The Oakland Raiders defense is an absolute mess right now. In the preseason, they allowed an average of 192 rushing yards per game and now they have LaDainian Tomlinson and Darren Sproles coming to visit. Good luck.
Week 1 NFL Picks: Chargers -9.5
Add comment September 10th, 2009
Saturday’s going to be a difficult day for some of the best football players in the world.
There’s only room for 53 men on every NFL roster, spread out among 22 positions plus special teams. Saturday is the final cut day before the start of the 2009 season. Most of the personnel decisions have already been made, but there are still some jobs on the line during Week 4, the final week of the preseason. A handful of those who don’t make the cut will go on to the CFL or the new United Football League and be back for training camp next year. Others have some tough career choices to make.
Then there are the players in football limbo. They’re suspended, have yet to sign contracts, will start the year on the injured list, or are named Michael Vick. Keeping track of these players is doubly important as we prepare for both Week 4 of the exhibition season and Week 1 of the regular season.
The Commish
It looks like NFL commissioner Roger Goodell will rule Saturday if and when Vick will be allowed to play for the Philadelphia Eagles. Goodell doesn’t have to make any decision at all until Week 6, but getting the decision in by cut day will allow the Eagles to make the appropriate roster moves. Rumors/press leaks have it that Vick will be made eligible to play in Week 3 against the Kansas City Chiefs, with some hope for an immediate reinstatement. Meanwhile, Vick will reportedly play QB for the second half of Philadelphia’s preseason finale against the New York Jets (-3 at home). Second-string QB Kevin Kolb will start, with Vick lining up here and there in the Wildcat.
Vick’s Rub
The Eagles were one of the fashionable choices to win the Super Bowl this year at 12-1 when the futures market opened. At press time, those odds were down to 10-1, and they could shorten even further after Saturday’s announcement. The over/under on regular season victories was put up on the board more recently and remains (for now) at 9.5. The Minnesota Vikings moved from 22-1 to 12-1 after signing QB Brett Favre; their total for victories is nine. Favre is not expected to play for Minnesota on Friday night against the Dallas Cowboys (+3 on the road).
According to Croyle
The Chiefs are one of the few teams uncertain who their starting QB will be in Week 1. There are conflicting reports in the news about the status of Matt Cassel (knee) for the season opener. If he’s unable to go, the torch will be passed to either Tyler Thigpen or Brodie Croyle. And it appears Croyle has the inside track at the moment; he’ll get the start in Thursday’s Week 4 matchup with the St. Louis Rams (+1 at home). Thigpen (74.4 career QB rating) started 11 games for the Chiefs last year after Croyle (67.5) was injured in the season opener.
Marshall Marshall Marshall
The Denver Broncos haven’t made any headway in their attempts to satisfy WR Brandon Marshall’s trade wishes. He was suspended for the last two games of the preseason, leaving the Broncos short on skill players for Thursday’s matchup with the Arizona Cardinals (-3.5 on the road). QB Kyle Orton has a dislocated right index finger, QB Chris Simms has a high ankle sprain, and RB Knowshon Moreno has a sprained MCL. All three are expected to be ready for the season opener, but WR Jabar Gaffney (broken thumb) is out indefinitely.
The Walking Wounded
Here is a list of some of the other key injuries as the preseason draws to a close.
Cincinnati Bengals RT Andre Smith: stress fracture, out indefinitely
Tampa Bay Buccaneers P Josh Bidwell: hip, out for season
Arizona Cardinals WR Anquan Boldin: hamstring, day-to-day
Indianapolis Colts S Bob Sanders: knee, doubtful for Week 1
Atlanta Falcons RB Jerious Norwood: knee, day-to-day
Detroit Lions QB Daunte Culpepper: toe, day-to-day
Green Bay Packers WR Greg Jennings: concussion, day-to-day
Carolina Panthers DL Maake Kemoeatu: Achilles’, out for season
New England Patriots WR Wes Welker: undisclosed, status uncertain
Baltimore Ravens DB Samari Rolle: neck, PUP list, out until Week 7
Seattle Seahawks LT Walter Jones: knee, out indefinitely
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Add comment September 3rd, 2009
You’ve been waiting for this for months. The 2009 NFL season is only two weeks away – all right, the NFL preseason. But it’s still football, by far the most popular betting sport in North America, and the NFL is our bread and butter at Bodog Sports.
There’s no such thing as an offseason when it comes to business. Important players have changed hands, others were added at the 2009 NFL Draft, and we’re once again left hanging about Brett Favre’s future. Here’s the skinny on what’s been going down.
Favre Watch, Day 181
It’s been widely assumed since Favre retired from the New York Jets on Feb. 11 that he’d be back in the NFL for 2009, and playing for the Minnesota Vikings. A lot is riding on this decision; even at age 39, Favre put up useful numbers (22 TDs, 22 INTs, 81.0 passer rating) for the Jets and nearly got them into the playoffs. Incumbent starter Tarvaris Jackson has a career passer rating of 76.5 in parts of three seasons with the Vikings. The difference between the two is big enough to keep Minnesota’s over/under for wins off the board for now.
Orton Hears a Who
The Jets are one of 11 teams to go into the 2009 NFL season with new full-time head coaches:
The Jets are one of 11 teams to go into the 2009 NFL season with new full-time head coaches: Cleveland Browns: Eric Mangini replaces Romeo Crennel
Denver Broncos: Josh McDaniels replaces Mike Shanahan
Detroit Lions: Jim Schwartz replaces Rod Marinelli
Kansas City Chiefs: Todd Haley replaces Herm Edwards
Indianapolis Colts: Jim Caldwell replaces Tony Dungy
New York Jets: Rex Ryan replaces Mangini
Oakland Raiders: Tom Cable replaces Lane Kiffin
St. Louis Rams: Steve Spagnuolo replaces interim coach Jim Haslett
San Francisco 49ers: Mike Singletary replaces Mike Nolan
Seattle Seahawks: Jim L. Mora replaces Mike Holmgren
Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Raheem Morris replaces Jon Gruden
Dungy and Holmgren have earned their retirements. Everybody else got the pink slip. All these coaching changes should make the NFL a more volatile commodity for bettors this year – and the most volatile situation is in Denver, where the new Broncos front office got into a feud with QB Jay Cutler (25 TDs, 18 INTs, 86.0 passer rating) and ended up trading him to the Chicago Bears for QB Kyle Orton. (18 TDs, 12 INTs, 79.6 passer rating). That’s a downgrade for the Broncos, but Orton is an undervalued commodity because of his “goofy” personality off the field.
Not Quite Free Michael Vick
If anyone else needs a quarterback, Michael Vick wants to play, but he won’t be available until Week 6. That’s according to league commish Roger Goodell’s ruling on Monday to conditionally reinstate Vick after 18 months in prison for dogfighting-related crimes. Handicappers will want to pay extra attention to this story for two reasons. One, Vick would actually be able to participate in workouts and the final two preseason games, should anyone sign him. There will be betting lines for those games, and Vick figures to need a lot of playing time to get back into game shape. Two, Vick’s ongoing suspension (spun by Goodell as a chance to make a “transition”) is being labeled as harsh in the press and could be lifted upon further review.
If anyone else needs a quarterback, Michael Vick wants to play, but he won’t be available until Week 6. That’s according to league commish Roger Goodell’s ruling on Monday to conditionally reinstate Vick after 18 months in prison for dogfighting-related crimes. Handicappers will want to pay extra attention to this story for two reasons. One, Vick would actually be able to participate in workouts and the final two preseason games, should anyone sign him. There will be betting lines for those games, and Vick figures to need a lot of playing time to get back into game shape. Two, Vick’s ongoing suspension (spun by Goodell as a chance to make a “transition”) is being labeled as harsh in the press and could be lifted upon further review.
Drafting Table
Here are the five draft picks most likely to make an immediate impact in their rookie campaigns.
Here are the five draft picks most likely to make an immediate impact in their rookie campaigns. 1. Jason Smith, St. Louis Rams: Smith will slide in at left tackle and give QB Marc Bulger (38 sacks) the blindside protection he sorely needs.
2. Brian Orakpo, Washington Redskins: Orakpo can play linebacker or end, and when he’s on the line, the former Longhorn gets to play alongside premium tackle Albert Haynesworth.
3. Robert Ayers, Denver Broncos: This was the second-worst defense in the league last year in terms of efficiency. Ayers offers instant relief on the line as new defensive co-ordinator Mike Nolan switches to the 3-4.
4. Percy Harvin, Minnesota Vikings: Whether it’s Favre, Jackson or Sage Rosenfels throwing the ball, Harvin is a dazzling skill player fulfilling a big need for the Vikings.
5. Rey Maualuga, Cincinnati Bengals: Maualuga is a pass-rushing linebacker with coverage skills and the opportunity to line up next to former USC Trojans teammate Keith Rivers.
Walk it off
Ayers won’t be making any difference for the Broncos until he agrees to sign and report to their training camp, which starts July 30. Both Ayers and fellow first-round pick Knowshon Moreno are holding out; Brandon Marshall will be there, but he’s clearly not happy with his situation in Denver. Or perhaps they just want to avoid the horrible injuries that can happen in camp. We leave you with these (non-heat stroke related) classics:
Ayers won’t be making any difference for the Broncos until he agrees to sign and report to their training camp, which starts July 30. Both Ayers and fellow first-round pick Knowshon Moreno are holding out; Brandon Marshall will be there, but he’s clearly not happy with his situation in Denver. Or perhaps they just want to avoid the horrible injuries that can happen in camp. We leave you with these (non-heat stroke related) classics:
1983: Rookie RB Doug Furnas injured in Broncos camp, becomes pro-wrestler instead after a year on injured reserve
1987: Green Bay Packers sophomore DB Elbert Watts tears up his knee in a scrimmage, never plays again
2004: WR David Boston’s knee buckles during a Miami Dolphins practice; career goes into tailspin
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Add comment July 28th, 2009
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