Pick of the Day

PICK OF THE DAY

2007-02-03T09:00:00.000-08:00

The Leafs have won two in a row and everyone is ready to plan the parade. But look which team they just happen to play tonight. The Sens.

As any inveterate Leaf supporter knows, of all teams in the NHL, there is but one whom the Leafs just cannot beat the last two years and that is the one from Ottawa.

The Sens have been playing fabulous for the better part of two months and after a slow start are now in position to challenge even the Sabres for the division and conference over all first seed.

Raycroft's slight resurgance is nothing but a case of smoke and mirrors. Emery is by far the better goaltender and Ottawa is by far the better team. The only edge Toronto has is behind the bench, but the last time I checked Paul could not play.

The Leafs get bombed tonight.

SENS -200 at www.BetBug.com

And for even more indepth stats on this and all other games, check out BetBug's fantastic database of statistical information BetBug Sports Super Stats

PICK OF THE DAY

2007-02-02T09:00:00.000-08:00

The Big Game is just two short days away, so let's get started with our picks for it right now.

The first wager I like in this year's Super Bowl is on Indy for the First Half.

If, and I repeat IF, Chicago is going to win this game, they're going to do it by grinding away at Indy with their D coming up big late. Indy's O is made for a quick strike type of offense and that's exactly how I see them starting out the game. Probably in some 5 receiver sets looking to immediately put points on the board and force Grossman to play from behind.

This is certainly their recipe for success and it exactly what I think will transpire. At least for the first 30 minutes.

COTLS -4 -110 FIRST HALF at www.BetBug.com

And for even more indepth stats on this and all other games, check out BetBug's fantastic database of statistical information BetBug Sports Super Stats

PICK OF THE DAY

2007-01-31T09:00:00.000-08:00

Tonight we look to the future. Specifically the NHL's future.

Last season the league opened up the game with new rules designed to increase scoring, and it worked.

This season coaches have adapted (ie begun trapping again) and we find ourselves back to more boring hockey than exciting hockey. It's still better than the dead puck era, but no where near what it could be.

Whom does this favor? Why the team that won 3 Stanley Cups by being the most boring team out there. The New Jersey Devils. They are going to win their division easily and with Brodeur playing well, are this man's pick for the cup.

Mind you this is one bet I hope I lose, as I just cannot stand their style of play. They are more responsible than anyone else for setting the game of hockey back into the stone age.

NEW JERSEY DEVILS TO WIN THE STANLEY CUP +800 at www.BetBug.com

And for even more indepth stats on this and all other games, check out BetBug's fantastic database of statistical information BetBug Sports Super Stats

PICK OF THE DAY

2007-01-29T09:00:00.000-08:00

Just two games tonight in the NHL, but one of them has certainly caught my attention. The Rangers are in Beantown to take on the Bruins. This is a rivalry from way back, the original 6 in fact, and the salient point about said rivalry is it's incredible LACK OF DEFENCE whenever these two teams take to the ice together.

Neither team has exactly been stellar defensively this year so we'll look for that trend to continue tonight.

RANGERS/BRUINS OVER 6 -120 at www.BetBug.com

And for even more indepth stats on this and all other games, check out BetBug's fantastic database of statistical information BetBug Sports Super Stats

PICK OF THE DAY

2007-01-28T09:00:00.000-08:00

The Suns, on yet another EXTENDED winning streak head into Cleveland to face the Cavs tonight.

Even if Lebron were a sure thing to play I would like the Cavs, and as it is, with James being a question mark, I see no reason Mr. Nash and the Suns won't extend their winning streak yet another game.

Phoenix is going to win the NBA Championship this year and today they'll show just how good they are in a nationally televised game.

SUNS -6 at www.BetBug.com

And for even more indepth stats on this and all other games, check out BetBug's fantastic database of statistical information BetBug Sports Super Stats

PICK OF THE DAY

2007-01-27T10:22:00.000-08:00

The Toronto Raptors face off against the Indiana Pacers tonight. Toronto finally has achieved mediocrity with their victory over Boston last evening and theis ascension the vaunted level of a .500 basketball team.

But this recent lack of success is a bit of a mirage. The combined strength of the teams on their current homestand was .360!

It's not so much that they have gotten better, but that their opposition has become that much worse.

Tonight, on the road, in Indiana, their recent run will come to an end. They have been unable to cover at home against the dregs of the league, surely on the road against a tought home team, they will fall away quickely.

Sorry Sam, it's back to under .500 for your boys after tonight.

PACERS -6 -105 at www.BetBug.com

And for even more indepth stats on this and all other games, check out BetBug's fantastic database of statistical information BetBug Sports Super Stats

PICK OF THE DAY

2007-01-26T09:00:00.000-08:00

NHL resumes tonight with a bunch of games.

Vancouver was the hottest team in the league heading into the break and the Kings are one of the worst. This however is exactly the kind of spot to take a huge price on the underdog. The Canucks will have relaxed (probably on a beach somewhere) for the last 5 days while the Kings probably used the break to bear down and focus.

Vancover with Luongo may well be one of the best team's in the league, but tonight, in this particular instance, I think we are looking at some very big value for the underdog.

KINGS +220 at www.BetBug.com

And for even more indepth stats on this and all other games, check out BetBug's fantastic database of statistical information BetBug Sports Super Stats

PICK OF THE DAY

2007-01-24T09:00:00.000-08:00

This is an easy pick tonight. The NHL All Star game goes this evening, and even in a season where scoring is down, there is one constant you can depend on. This game will feature ZERO defense and exactly ZERO hitting.

I know the total is high but that is only by regular standards. By All Star standards, it just normal.

They're going to fill the net tonight (Ovechkin might get 6!) and people will watch enthralled and then ask, why can't they do that normally?

A good question that. Gary?...

NHL ALL STAR GAME OVER 15.5 -105 at www.BetBug.com

And for even more indepth stats on this and all other games, check out BetBug's fantastic database of statistical information BetBug Sports Super Stats

PICK OF THE DAY

2007-01-22T09:00:00.000-08:00

NHL All Star Break this week. Gives us time to try and divine the future and make a Stanley Cup pick for the second half.

Scoring is down from last year, teams and coaches have started to trap again, and it looks like the era of the dead puck may be returning.

What does this all portend? Well which team dominated and intiated said era the last 15 years?

That's right, the New Jersey Devils. With Brodeur playing like the Vezna winner yet again, I like the Devils to put the league to sleep in the playoffs yet again and hoist their 4th Stanley Cup since 95

DEVILS +1000 TO WIN THE STANLEY CUP at www.BetBug.com

And for even more indepth stats on this and all other games, check out BetBug's fantastic database of statistical information BetBug Sports Super Stats

PICK OF THE DAY

2007-01-21T09:00:00.000-08:00

Many people have annointed this game as the defacto Super Bowl. Well they have got it half right.

The team that wins this game will win the Super Bowl in two weeks, but that team is not in doubt. It was last week's New England/San Diego game which was in reality for all the marbles.

Lets just think about this for a second. New England just went ON THE ROAD, AGAINST THE BEST TEAM IN FOOTBALL, WAS IN DANGER OF GETTING BLOWN OUT both early and late, and managed somehow to engineer their biggest (obviously) win of the season.

While Indy? They played at home, against a BAD Baltimore team, and just barely managed to pull it out. They did not score a TD and in fact Manning has looked terrible all playoffs.

This game is not going to be close. Pats by AT LEAST 21. You heard it here first.

PATRIOTS +150 at www.BetBug.com

And for even more indepth stats on this and all other games, check out BetBug's fantastic database of statistical information BetBug Sports Super Stats

PICK OF THE DAY

2007-01-20T09:00:00.000-08:00

Well let's take the two conference finals in order. Today the NFC.

One would think that this game comes down to once question and one question only.

Will Grossman lose it for the Bears?

But I must disagree with that anaylsis.

Since some of their injuries on the back end, the Bears have not been the same overpowering force on D that they were earlier in the season. They are still very very good mind you. But if Brees can improve just a bit from his divisional game, when imo, he was actually outplayed by Garcia, and if the the Saints D can avoid any blow ups, well then I like...and just imagine writing these words at the season's beginning, the New Orleans Saints to win the NFC.

Wow.

Saints +120 at www.BetBug.com

And for even more indepth stats on this and all other games, check out BetBug's fantastic database of statistical information BetBug Sports Super Stats

PICK OF THE DAY

2007-01-19T09:00:00.000-08:00

Back with the NFL Conference picks tomorrow.

PICK OF THE DAY

2007-01-18T09:00:00.000-08:00

Leafs are in Florida tonight, finally starting to get a few of their walking wounded back. Given how abysmally bad they could have been during this infirm streak, they actually have handled it relatively well.

And Florida are certainly no world beaters. Plus the Leafs always get up to face them with Roberts and The Eagle still on the team.

We'll try for some value tonight and take the Buds at a price.

LEAFS +115 at www.BetBug.com

And for even more indepth stats on this and all other games, check out BetBug's fantastic database of statistical information BetBug Sports Super Stats

PICK OF THE DAY

2007-01-16T09:00:00.000-08:00

We'll just keep riding the Islanders bandwagon tonight looking for value. They take on the Pens, and as I already have stated, the lines on Pitsburgh are starting to become wildly inflated due to the Crosby factor.

Getting some BIG money on a road team that is not any worse (and might even be better) than the home team, well, I'll take it.

ISLANDERS +150 at www.BetBug.com

And for even more indepth stats on this and all other games, check out BetBug's fantastic database of statistical information BetBug Sports Super Stats

PICK OF THE DAY.

2007-01-15T09:00:00.000-08:00

The Tampa Bay Lightning head to Long Island tonight to take on Ted Nolan's much improved Islander squad.

Whether or not you like Mr. Nolan (and certainly I do not...I find him pompous and arrogant), one must admit the Isles are better than was expected.

The Lightning on the other hand, are once again proving a dissapointment. After their Stanley Cup win, everyone expected them to dominate for years to come. But it has not happened. Obviously a large factor is goaltending, but I also think they are ready to tune out their coach.

And the Isles are certainly not doing that. So...

ISLANDERS -120 at www.BetBug.com

And for even more indepth stats on this and all other games, check out BetBug's fantastic database of statistical information BetBug Sports Super Stats

PICK OF THE DAY

2007-01-14T09:00:00.000-08:00

Again to the NFC we go this afternoon, for the first game of the day. The Super Bowl runnerups (and boy doesn't that seem like it was from another century) travel to Chicago to take on the Bears.

I like Seattle and the points here. For one, Grossman is always capable of losing the game by himself. For two, the Seahawks in theory at least, do still have some rather wild talent at the skill positions.

Combine that with the Bears perhaps not being quite as good as advertised from earlier in the year and you get a recipe for a possible upset, and certainly a close game.

SEAHAWKS +9.5 -105 at www.BetBug.com

And for even more indepth stats on this and all other games, check out BetBug's fantastic database of statistical information BetBug Sports Super Stats

PICK OF THE DAY

2007-01-13T09:00:00.000-08:00

Ok, NFC game goes late today. New Orleans is the comeback/success story of the season, for more reasons than just the football team.

But we are focusing on football for this pick. With Garcia at the helm the Eagles have been a new team. And they certainly still have the defence they always had. I look for a low scoring tight game, and given that sort of narrative, I think taking the points is clearly the way to proceed, even if the Saints may squeak it out in the end.

EAGLES +5 EVEN at www.BetBug.com

And for even more indepth stats on this and all other games, check out BetBug's fantastic database of statistical information BetBug Sports Super Stats

PICK OF THE DAY

2007-01-12T09:00:00.000-08:00

Short and sweet. The AFC playoffs. You can get Indianapolis and New England as UNDERDOGS.

This is very simple. I think they are both the best two teams and forget the points, just take the moneyline, on both games.

COLTS +180 and PATS +190 at www.BetBug.com

And for even more indepth stats on this and all other games, check out BetBug's fantastic database of statistical information BetBug Sports Super Stats

PICK OF THE DAY

2007-01-11T09:00:00.000-08:00

Nothing strikes the fancy tonight. Back with all the NFL for the weekend tomorrow.

PICK OF THE DAY

2007-01-10T09:00:00.000-08:00

Crosby and the Pens head into Florida tonight to take on the Panthers.

Now I bow to no one in my admiration for Crosby and his team, but they are very young and anytime you have a young team on the road, you always have to worry.

Florida is a good team at home and will probably be a good price as well. The public has already started to inflate Crosby lines.

Take the contrarian approach tonight and take the value. Take the Panthers.

Panthers -150 at www.BetBug.com

And for even more indepth stats on this and all other games, check out BetBug's fantastic database of statistical information BetBug Sports Super Stats

PICK OF THE DAY

2007-01-09T09:00:00.000-08:00

Last year's Stanley Cup Champions enter the Air Canada Center tonight to take on the Leafs. While they did have a good week just past, picking up a few huge wins, I do not forsee them emerging victorious tonight especially given that Carolina will want payback for the loss they took against the Leafs earlier on this season.

Plus the price will be right.

You'll be getting the Canes at PLUS money vs the Leafs.

This is a gimme, must bet.

HURRICANES -110 at www.BetBug.com

And for even more indepth stats on this and all other games, check out BetBug's fantastic database of statistical information BetBug Sports Super Stats

PICK OF THE DAY

2007-01-08T09:00:00.000-08:00

This is going to be short and sweet.

OSU is the best team in the nation. Only Michigan has been able to come even close to them. And Florida is most certainly not Michigan. The Buckeyes and their "pro" style program (dirty dirty Tressel) will mop up the floor with the Gators, as much as it pains me to admit it, and claim their second National Championship this decade for Tressel and his band of evil bagmen, boosters, and fans.

OSU -7 -110 at www.BetBug.com

And for even more indepth stats on this and all other games, check out BetBug's fantastic database of statistical information BetBug Sports Super Stats

PICK OF THE DAY

2007-01-07T09:00:00.000-08:00

Unlike yesterday, there is one Wild Card Game that I believe offers some value from a betting perspective.

The Patriots lost to the Jets earlier this season at home. Which is why this matchup sets up so bad for New York today. There is just no way Belicheck will allow his protegee to get the best of him again. And it's always hard to be the team that won the first game in a rematch. Why do you think OSU desperately did not want to play Michigan again this year.

The Pats are healthy and ready, and have a huge experience edge. They're going to win going away.

PATS -8.5 -105 at www.BetBug.com

And for even more indepth stats on this and all other games, check out BetBug's fantastic database of statistical information BetBug Sports Super Stats

PICK OF THE DAY

2007-01-06T09:00:00.000-08:00

Western Michigan takes on Cincinnati in the debut edition of the International Bowl today right up here in the Great White North.

I don't have a strong opinion either way for the side, as I think the line is just about accurate.

But I do have a little lean on the total. The venue for this game is the Rogers Center, formerly known as the Sky Dome, in Toronto. At the best of times this place is as loud as a tomb, and with two non-descript college teams really just playing out the string, and probably bitter they're not in Hawaii for the Aloha Bowl, well I just can't see there being much atmosphere or intensity to this game. I look for very little scoring in a boring game which may well have the effect of making the first edition of the International Bowl also the last.

UNDER 42 -105 at www.BetBug.com

And for even more indepth stats on this and all other games, check out BetBug's fantastic database of statistical information BetBug Sports Super Stats

PICK OF THE DAY

2007-01-05T09:00:00.000-08:00

The NFL gets it's post season underway this weekend and while all 4 games look pretty tough to pick, I do have one specific wager I like heading into the playoffs.

With such parity in the NFL, there is nothing better than experience. And there is one team who has that in droves, especially their head coach and starting QB.

New England has been there, done that all before. None of this is new to them, and unlike some others (Hi Peyton, Hi Marty) they have actually GOTTEN THE JOB DONE.

I like the Patriots to re-establish their place as the pre-eminent team in the National Football League this month and win the Vince Lombardi Trophy for the 4th time this decade.

PATRIOTS TO WIN THE SUPERBOWL +850 at www.BetBug.com

And for even more indepth stats on this and all other games, check out BetBug's fantastic database of statistical information BetBug Sports Super Stats

PICK OF THE DAY

2007-01-04T09:00:00.000-08:00

Finally...a day off from Bowls. And we'll take a break as well. Back with the NFL playoffs and the Bowls for the weekend.

PICK OF THE DAY

2007-01-03T09:00:00.000-08:00

This year's edition of the Sugar Bowl pits the LSU Tigers against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish.

Based on their last game, Notre Dame would not be a team you would wager on with someone else's money.

BUT...you just know that Charlie Weiss and his staff will have the Irish ready for this game. There is no way there are going out on this year with a loss. And as such, since they are GETTING almost 10 points, well I'd say this is one sweet spot for a straight up money line wager, on a very good team to rebound and take out a slightly over-rated LSU team who won't have quite as much crowd support as everyone thinks. The Irish, for all their faults do have one very attractive thing, especially to Bowl Committees. They (and their fans) travel well.

IRISH +330 at www.BetBug.com

And for even more indepth stats on this and all other games, check out BetBug's fantastic database of statistical information BetBug Sports Super Stats

PICK OF THE DAY

2007-01-02T09:00:00.000-08:00

Wafe Forest, coming off a very improbable ACC title, are facing the Cardinals of Louisville tonight.

While the Cards are clearly the better team, Wake has been suprising people all season and I think they'll have enough to continue that trend tonight and at least keep this game close enough for us to get the money.

Wake's defense is actually very under-rated and a stout D is exactly what you need, as a prohibitive underdog to give yourself a chance. I think Brohm, Louisville's prime time QB, is due for a bad game, and today will be the time he falters.

WAKE FOREST +10 -105 at www.BetBug.com

And for even more indepth stats on this and all other games, check out BetBug's fantastic database of statistical information BetBug Sports Super Stats

PICK OF THE DAY

2007-01-01T09:00:00.000-08:00

The first of the year is brought in with 6 Bowl Games.

I like the Rose Bowl to be, not a tight, close game, but an absolute blowout.

For heavens sakes, the line has even moved towards the worse team, USC, who just lost to UCLA!!!!

Michigan on the other hand, should be in the National Championship game, but will settle for beating the crap out of yet another over-rated Trojans squad. Let's all recall UM lost by only 3 IN OSU a couple of months ago. They are far and away the superior team and I simply don't think USC will be able to move the ball at all against the Nations best defense.

UM +1 EVEN at www.BetBug.com

And for even more indepth stats on this and all other games, check out BetBug's fantastic database of statistical information BetBug Sports Super Stats

PICK OF THE DAY

2006-12-31T09:00:00.000-08:00

The last day of the NFL season finds a full slate of games, but we'll look to the lone college bowl game for value today.

Miami, on reputation alone, is favoured over a good Nevada team. Miami in fact has two more losses than Nevada and if you compare their respective ATS records, 4-7 for Miami, vs 10-2 for Nevada, well I think it's quite clear that while everyone has visions of the big, bad Hurricans from days gone by, this team bears no resemblance to those championship caliber squads.

I'm taking the lesser known team on the money line to spring what is not to my way of thinking even an upset.

NEVADA +150 at www.BetBug.com

And for even more indepth stats on this and all other games, check out BetBug's fantastic database of statistical information BetBug Sports Super Stats

PICK OF THE DAY

2006-12-30T09:00:00.000-08:00

The Giants are in Washington tonight looking to at least win their final game after basically blowing their season during the last month. And while the Redskins have scared no one this season, a win in their season finale over one of their arch rivals would surely go a long way to allowing them to feel good about their off season.

And I see no reason for them not to get one, given the absolute disarray of the Giants.

REDSKINS +2.5 -105 at www.BetBug.com

And for even more indepth stats on this and all other games, check out BetBug's fantastic database of statistical information BetBug Sports Super Stats

PICK OF THE DAY

2006-12-29T09:00:00.000-08:00

If the SEC is over-rated, the ACC is just the opposite. Everyone thinks they're terrible. And they are right!

in the Champs Sports Bowl tonight, Purdue takes on Maryland and hard as it is to believe, a not horrible Big 10 team is basically a pick'em with a team from the worst conference in the land.

No way Jose. The Boilermakers have the same number of wins, in a much tougher sched, as do Maryland. They're going to get one more tonight.

BOILERMAKERS -1 -105 at www.BetBug.com

And for even more indepth stats on this and all other games, check out BetBug's fantastic database of statistical information BetBug Sports Super Stats

PICK OF THE DAY

2006-12-28T09:00:00.000-08:00

My one guiding light for all bowl betting this year is to bet against a conference I consider vastly over-rated, the supposedly superior SEC.

And tonight we get a chance to do just that, with Alabama against Oklahoma State. The Cowboys just barely lost to Oklahoma last out, while Alabama showed much worse, losing AT HOME to arch rival Auburn by 7.

Bama's season is done with that loss and I don't think a matchup across the country is exactly what they were looking for.

Let's take the more motivated, and better, team to easily cover here.

COWBOYS -2 -105 at www.BetBug.com

And for even more indepth stats on this and all other games, check out BetBug's fantastic database of statistical information BetBug Sports Super Stats

PICK OF THE DAY

2006-12-27T09:00:00.000-08:00

Now tonight we have a real bowl matchup. The Emerald Bowl in San Fran has UCLA taking on FSU.

The Bruins are of course coming off their huge upset of USC and thus are small favourites in this game.

I think that was their game of the year, and they pretty much do not even care about this bowl game. And lest we forget the Seminoles gave Florida a good run for their money in their last game as well.

I love FSU here, not just with the points, but outright.

SEMINOLES +175 at www.BetBug.com

And for even more indepth stats on this and all other games, check out BetBug's fantastic database of statistical information BetBug Sports Super Stats

PICK OF THE DAY

2006-12-26T09:00:00.000-08:00

Back to the grind today after the holiday yesterday.

There is a football game, but the day I bet on the Motor City Bowl is the day I shoot myself.

Instead we'll look to the resumption of the NHL to provide us with our pick.

The Sabres were far and away the class of the East prior to the Christmas break, but I have a feeling teams have figured out their buzzing like a swarm of bees style (ie...HIT THEM...ALOT) and in the resumption of the league, I like to take a few big money shots.

The Caps are not anywhere near as bad as last year and will give the Sabres a good run for their money tonight, at a monster price.

CAPITALS +240 at www.BetBug.com

And for even more indepth stats on this and all other games, check out BetBug's fantastic database of statistical information BetBug Sports Super Stats

PICK OF THE DAY

2006-12-25T09:00:00.000-08:00

The NFL in its infinite wisdom has scheduled not just one, but TWO Christmas football games. Talk about a lack of respect for the jolly red big man and his pursuit of peace on Earth!

But we will soldier on and as it happens, one of the games offers a very good pick.

The Eagles take on the Cowboys and while Dallas did win last week, they certainly have looked nothing like their earlier juggernaught ways. Getting bombed by the Saints and then in a much closer game with the Falcons than the score would indicate, they are laying big points to the Eagles who with Garcia at QB, are playing their best football of the season.

I look for a low scoring game and I love taking the points in these situations.

EAGLES +7 -110 at www.BetBug.com

And for even more indepth stats on this and all other games, check out BetBug's fantastic database of statistical information BetBug Sports Super Stats

PICK OF THE DAY

2006-12-24T09:00:00.000-08:00

At the Meadowlands this afternoon, we have a case of line reversal and line value. A few weeks ago, Dallas was a three point favourite in New York. They won by 3. The following week, Dallas got destroyed by the Saints. And now the Saints are 3 point UNDERDOGS!!!!??? in New York.

I don't think so.

I realize New Orleans was smoked last week, but that is a one-off that happens to all teams. This is about value and the value this week is in taking the points on the much better team.

SAINTS +3 -115 at www.BetBug.com

And for even more indepth stats on this and all other games, check out BetBug's fantastic database of statistical information BetBug Sports Super Stats

PICK OF THE DAY

2006-12-23T09:00:00.000-08:00

After looking like a serious contender about a month ago Kansas City has fallen on very hard times. Losers of 3 in a row, their playoff hopes hanging by a thread, KC finds however the perfect tonic for all losing streaks.

They are in Oakland tonight.

Not even the Chiefs are bad enough to lose to the Raiders, and the line reflects this. KC is a seven point favourite and in all honesty this line is at least a field goal too low. Still in with a chance (albeit a remote one) to secure a post season berth, KC will run wild over the Raiders. The only weapon Oakland has is Randy Moss and he has zero impact these days due to ambivolence and lack of skill at Oakland's QB position.

Chiefs in a rout.

KC -7 -105 at www.BetBug.com

And for even more indepth stats on this and all other games, check out BetBug's fantastic database of statistical information BetBug Sports Super Stats

PICK OF THE DAY

2006-12-22T09:00:00.000-08:00

Bowl season continues this evening with the New Orleans Bowl. Troy taking on Rice.

The Owls are the big favourite and while the Trojans may offer some resistance, I do not forsee them stopping Rice very often.

As such, and since it's being played indoors, on turf, I think we'll look to the Total here to provide the value. Neither team will have much interest in defence in this game, which should wind up being your basic last team to score wins sort of contest.

TROY/RICE OVER 54 -105 at www.BetBug.com

And for even more indepth stats on this and all other games, check out BetBug's fantastic database of statistical information BetBug Sports Super Stats

PICK OF THE DAY

2006-12-21T09:00:00.001-08:00

The Las Vegas Bowl tonight has BYU taking on Oregon.

And for some wacko reason, BYU is actually favoured.

Yes, BYU did have only 2 losses to Oregon's 5 this season, but if you compare the relative strengths of the two conferences, well there really is no comparison. One plays in a real Division 1 conference, the other does not.

The wrong team is favoured here.

The Ducks quack loudly tonight and win this one outright.

DUCKS +145 at www.BetBug.com

And for even more indepth stats on this and all other games, check out BetBug's fantastic database of statistical information BetBug Sports Super Stats

PICK OF THE DAY

2006-12-19T09:00:00.000-08:00

The 2006 Bowl Season gets underway tonight but not exactly with a bang. More like with a whimper. The Poinsettia Bowl contested at Qualcomm Stadium in San Diego finds Northern Illinois taking on TCU.

Not exactly Michigan-USC is it?

Nonetheless, it is football and we shall make a pick.

TCU are the big 10+ pt favourite here and given what we've seen so far in this Ncaa season (tons of upsets), I think the safe play to start with here is to take the points. Northern Illinois are certainly not a bad team, posted a shutout in their season finale, and given that they'll be in reciept of some rather large amount of points, I like the Huskies here to come out barking and keep it close, if not win outright!

HUSKIES +11.5 +100 at www.BetBug.com

And for even more indepth stats on this and all other games, check out BetBug's fantastic database of statistical information BetBug Sports Super Stats

PICK OF THE DAY

2006-12-18T09:00:00.000-08:00

For a change this evening, MNF actually has a meaniful game. Talk about needing NBC's flex schedule in general though.

Cincy visits Indy and this is a MASSIVE game for both teams. We're going to find alot out about the Colts tonight. They either get their season back on track or continue what may be the begginning of the end of their Super Bowl window.

And since I don't forsee the Colts defence doing much against the Bengals offence, to go along with Manning et all...I love the over here. Indoors, two great QB's and two offensive forces. This one ought to be a shootout.

OVER 54.5 -105 at www.BetBug.com

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PICK OF THE DAY

2006-12-17T09:00:00.000-08:00

Big game today for Jacksonville. They can firmly ensconce themselves in the playoff picture with a victory over Vince Young and the Titans. Notwithstanding his game winnning TD run last week, I expect Young to have major trouble with the Jags defence. He is still a rookie after all and he will say so many looks this week and d-fronts he has probably never seen before that I have to think the Jaguars are looking good to get the victory and continue their inexorable march into the post season.

JAGS -3.5 EVEN at www.BetBug.com

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PICK OF THE DAY

2006-12-16T09:00:00.000-08:00

The Cowboys head to Atlanta to take on Mike Vick and the very disappointing Falcons.

Atlanta may still have a theoretical shot at the playoffs but they really have not been anything like the team they imagined themselves to be at the year's begginning.

And with the exception of last week's blow out, which happens to the best of them, the Cowbows have looked great for a month.

Parcels will have Dallas ready coming off a loss and they really should not have too much trouble with a 6 loss Falcons team who may just be ready to give up.

COWBOWYS -3.5 -110 at www.BetBug.com

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PICK OF THE DAY

2006-12-15T09:00:00.000-08:00

The buffoons in Toronto have themselves a 1 game winning street. No doubt people are already planning the parade down Bay Street.

As good a coach as Maurice is, the Leafs are proving just how untalented they are these days.

HOWEVER, if there is one game on the entire year's schedule when this team will be up for it, it is this one. Against his old team, the Leafs will realize this means everything to their new coach and I forsee a solid effort and victory. They may lose every game after this from here till the New Year, but they will not lose tonight against the Canes.

LEAFS +155 at www.BetBug.com

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PICK OF THE DAY

2006-12-14T09:00:00.000-08:00

Yet another early Bowl selection today, again due to forseen line movement.

Notre Dame is going to face LSU in the Sugar Bowl at the Super Dome. Everyone's memory of of the Irish is getting bombed by USC. But if there is a coach on Earth who will have the ready to bounce back, with almost two months between games to prepare, it is Charlie Weiss. LSU is not any great world beater and to be getting MORE than a touchdown seems just insane here.

And once people realize this this the line is going to rocket down.

In fact, forget the points! Not only do I like Notre Dame to cover, they are going to win outright.

Book it.

IRISH +300 at www.BetBug.com

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PICK OF THE DAY

2006-12-13T09:00:00.000-08:00

We're going to get in early on the Rose Bowl game because I think this line is going to move, big time.

And it's going to move all in our favour, once we jump on the Wolverines.

The Pac 10 is annually the most over rated conference in the land. Combine that with USC's very mediocre play this season (they could easily have 3 or 4 losses) and they are not going to know what hit them when Michigan comes to town.

The Maze and Blue went into the Horseshoe, lost by only 3 points, covering the spread, and basically could have won the game if it were not for a horrible roughing call late in the game. Mighigan is miles better than OSU. And they're going to prove it Jan 1 in Pasedena.

WOLVERINES +1 -105 at www.BetBug.com

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PICK OF THE DAY

2006-12-12T09:00:00.000-08:00

A little something different today. At the end of this month, UFC 66 goes with the matchup everyone has been screaming for. Chuck Liddell vs Tito Ortiz. Ortiz is a big underdog and justifiably so. Liddell basically DOES NOT LOSE. But I think he will tonight, and here's why:

1 - Ortiz has been training up a storm, eshewing his normal night life lifestyle to focus totally and completely just on this fight.

2 - This is a rematch. As in anything, the edge in such a matchup ALWAYS goes to the man/team who lost the first one.

3 - the PRICE!!! Getting basically 2:1 is nothing to sneeze at.

ORTIZ +215 at www.BetBug.com

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PICK OF THE DAY

2006-12-11T09:00:00.000-08:00

Tonight's Monday Night Football Game sees the Bears heading to St. Louis to take on the Rams.

At first glance this is a fairly boring game on paper. The Bears being obviously the superior team, and even without a QB (as they are when Grossman starts), their D is so superior that this game ought not to be close.

BUT...did you know the Bears are only 1-4 SU in their last 5 games playing the Rams. And only 2-5 ATS on the road in their last 7 at St. Louis.

This game is a trap. Given the Bears very shaky QB situation, I'll take the Rams to cover, getting a huge number of points at home ready to put on a show in front of a big Monday Night crowd.

RAMS +6 -105 at www.BetBug.com

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PICK OF THE DAY

2006-12-10T09:00:00.000-08:00

The game of the day is definately the Sunday Nighter. New Orleans comes to Dallas looking to possibly secure a bye in the playoffs. Mind you, that is certainly what is on the Cowboy's mind as well.

While everyone has been talking about the "Cowboys and their resurgence", take a look down the road into the Bayou. The Saints are experiencing their very own "rejuvenation".

Thanks to Drew Brees, New Orleans is a serious playoff possibilty and getting this many points, I have to side with the team that has been good all season and is now being overlooked by the general public.

SAINTS +7.5 -110 www.BetBug.com

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PICK OF THE DAY

2006-12-09T09:00:00.000-08:00

The Leafs are in their worst slump of the season. Some will say they are simply rising, or is that falling, to their own natural level of incompetance. And there is some truth to that. But beyond Raycroft having some very bad third periods, they actually have been playing decent games. Tonight they're in Detroit, for the only time all year, and while I certainly don't think they're the likely favourite, at the price, they are surely worth a wager.

LEAFS +190 at www.BetBug.com

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PICK OF THE DAY

2006-12-04T09:00:00.000-08:00

The Eagles just can't seem to catch a break. They do the right thing by getting rid of TO, but just can't seem to keep their QB healty for the whole year. McNabb going down at least gives the Eagles an excuse for their lackluster season! There is no excuse for Carolina. Their were thought in many quarters to be top Super Bowl contenders. Uh no.

Today both teams are looking to hold on to one last little piece of hope. If only because it is the NFC, they both probably still have an outside shot at the playoffs. I'll take the Eagles, even without McNabb, at home, to upset the Panthers in a tight, lows scoring contest.

EAGLES +3 -103 at www.BetBug.com

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PICK OF THE DAY

2006-12-03T09:00:00.000-08:00

Ok now look. I like this kid Tony Romo as much as the next guy. He's brought a youthful exhuberance and sense of fun to Dallas that has been sadly missing for the last many years. And a sense of hope.

BUT...this line today against the Giants is reversed! I know the Giants appear to be in free fall, but if this line had been made just a few short weeks ago, it would be NY by 3, not Dallas.

Given the amount of value we are receiving there is no way to not take the points here.

NY GIANTS +3.5 -120 at www.BetBug.com

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PICK OF THE DAY

2006-12-02T09:00:00.000-08:00

Well this is it. We have USC taking on their long time rival UCLA with a shot in the National Champhionship Game up for grabs.

USC is the media's darling just now. Pete Carrol's team can do no wrong. Everyone is talking about their potential matchup with Ohio State. Can you say CART BEFORE HORSE???

Not that UCLA are any great shakes for sure. But against their number one rival, in what is always their game of the season, I not only like UCLA to beat the number against USC, I think there is also the ever so slight chance of an outright upset!

Having said that, we'll simply take the point.

UCLA +12 -105 at www.BetBug.com

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PICK OF THE DAY

2006-11-27T09:00:00.000-08:00

Seahawks host the Packers tonight. And as much as I would like to predict one last hurray by Favre, I just cannot. Look what New England did to Green Bay IN LAMBEAU!

Seattle may not quite be the equal of New England but that is only because of injury and Hasselback is expected back for this game. I don't think this will even be close. The Seahawks, completely healthy, are the best team in the NFC. The Packers? They may be the worst.

Laying less than 2 TD's here is a gift.

SEAHAWKS -10.5 -110 at www.BetBug.com

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PICK OF THE DAY

2006-11-26T09:00:00.000-08:00

I know the Pats have been no great shakes at home this season. And I know the Bears are one of the best teams in the league. But this is a statement game for New England. They will come out ready in this one and I don't think the Bears have anything close to the offense to keep up. If we call the defences a toss up, then I think it will be Brady and the boys on their side of the ball that get the job done for New England.

Lay the points. This one won't be close.

NEW ENGLAND -3.5 -110 at www.BetBug.com

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PICK OF THE DAY

2006-11-25T08:00:00.000-08:00

Notre Dame - USC.

Now this is a good game. And while everyone is talking about how USC, with a victory will secure itself a spot in the BCS Championship game, I think people are VASTLY overlooking Notre Dame here.

The Irish are far from the team that was demolished in front of their home fans by Michigan. Under Charlie Weiss, they are now playing what is probably their best football in the last decade. And USC? Uh, no. They continue to be over-rated and legitimately could have at least 3 losses so far. They have just barely squeaked out so many games, that not only do I like Notre Dame on the spread today, I like them to win this one outright!

NOTRE DAME +280 at www.BetBug.com

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PICK OF THE DAY

2006-11-23T09:00:00.000-08:00

The Broncos will be looking to rebound this week after their abysmal collapse at home on Sunday night. Although it is a really short week for Denver, I do like them against the Chiefs. Shannahan simply will not allow his team to fall two full games behind the Chargers (who will win vs Oakland). And in all honesty, getting the Broncos at plus money is a very enticing wager. They are the better team, perhaps even much better. To only need them to win the game is not asking alot.

BRONCOS +1.5 -105 at www.BetBug.com

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PICK OF THE DAY

2006-11-20T09:00:00.000-08:00

The Giants suddenly have a very big game tonight. After Dallas' win yesterday, New York needs to win to keep pace. And I think they will. Jacksonville can play a good game, but in general they should not be favoured by more than a FG. This is a straight value play. Take the 3 points and take the value.

NY GIANTS +4 -105 at www.BetBug.com

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PICK OF THE DAY

2006-11-18T09:00:00.000-08:00

Considering the recent history of Michigan vs Ohio State, you can be foregiven for wondering why on Earth I like the Wolverines. Since Tressel came to town, OSU is 4-1 straight up and against the spread vs Michigan. And God knows at this point I don't have much respect for Loyd Carr's coaching ability. BUT!!! The key to defeating OSU this year is containing Troy Smith. And the Wolverine's front four are so good and so fast and so tough to handle that I do not see that as being any problem. And once Smith realizes he can't run and is forced into unwanted passing downs, well that is just going to play into Michigan's plans.

MICHIGAN +7 -110 at www.BetBug.com

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PICK OF THE DAY

2006-11-16T09:00:00.000-08:00

After losing to Louisville two weeks ago, you could excuse West Virginia if they considered their season over. But lo and behold, everyone else has started to lose as well! The Mountaineers are back into the Top 10 and face a monster game December the 2nd against Rutgers for what could very well be a Conference title.

Now today's game is by no means as important, but they must know that if they want any shot at making their Dec. 2nd game important, they must not just win, but crush Pitt on national TV tonight.

With a second chance, really a second life, I look for West Virginia to destroy the Panthers in a game that is not close from the get go.

WEST VIRGINIA -11 -105 at www.BetBug.com

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PICK OF THE DAY

2006-11-14T09:00:00.000-08:00

The more things change the more they stay the same. The Detroit Red Wings, one of the old powers in the NHL, are once again near the top of the league. They're in Vancouver tonight to take on the Canucks. Hasek has returned to form and the Wings defense is stiffling. Roberto Luongo on the other hand has still not really found a groove. I like the Wings tonight to continue their success at the expense of a Vancouver team, who while they will be very good eventually, are not there yet.

CANCUCKS +130 at www.BetBug.com

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PICK OF THE DAY

2006-11-13T09:00:00.000-08:00

The Flyers come of yet another dispiriting loss to the Sabres and are in Pittsburgh tonight to face the Pens. Now I realize everyone will be ready to get on the bash the Flyers bandwagon yet again, but, lets realize that before their late collapse they had actually out playe the Sabres and almost beat the best team in the league in regulation. Granted they did not. But with the way Pittsburgh is not playing right now, given the large price, I like the Flyers tonight to get the ship righted.

FLYERS +170 at www.BetBug.com

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PICK OF THE DAY

2006-11-11T09:00:00.000-08:00

Last week both Michigan and OSU looked very much like they were over looking their opponents and neither covered in their games. This week I don't forsee that happening. Especially with OSU. You just know that dirty bastard Tressal wants to pound the living you know what out of Northwestern to get the team all ready and focused for hosting UM next weekend. And I think they will.
Laying the lumber this weekend and taking the Buckeyes.

BUCKEYES -23-105 at www.BetBug.com

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PICK OF THE DAY

2006-11-09T09:00:00.000-08:00

No Mats Sundin for a month. BUT...its not like the Bruins are exactly a powerhouse either. With Raycroft wanting to shove it up the Bruins you know where for trading him, and with the fact that this Leaf team, under this coach, is no longer a one man effort, well I certainly like the Leafs to come out with something to prove tonight, even if imo, Sundin just happens to be the best Captain in the league. Take the price.

LEAFS +105 at www.BetBug.com

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PICK OF THE DAY

2006-11-08T21:00:00.000-08:00

The Sens are in free fall. And now their, imo, best goalie, Emery, it out. Gerber stinks and the Thrashers are one of the best teams in hockey. Laying a tiny little amount, at home this is a team on fire vs a team who are living on past achievements. The loss of Chara has clearly affected the Sens back end, and while as of late, Alfreddson has come on a bit, they still can't seem to buy a win. If you switched the name of the Sens to the name of the Caps or Isles, this line would be -200. Making the Thrashers a great bet.

THRASHERS -125 at www.BetBug.com

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PICK OF THE DAY

2006-11-07T09:00:00.000-08:00

The Flames are just reeling. And their opponent tonight is not a team to allow them to catch their breathe. During the regular season at least, until their goalie does his annual playoff swoon, Dallas has been and continues to be one of the best teams in the league. They're on the road tonight, but the price is so good (we get money!) that this is a must play.

STARS -+105 at www.BetBug.com

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PICK OF THE DAY

2006-11-05T09:00:00.000-08:00

The game of the day is Indy at the Pats. Everyone is going to say that Indy has broken the Gillette Field Curse. I say no. New England was a broken down team when Indy faced they last year. This week the Colts face the real Pats, ready, willing, and able. Manning will have his typical 3 INT day against a Bellichek D and the Pats will roll.

PATS -3 -115 at www.BetBug.com

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PICK OF THE DAY

2006-11-04T09:00:00.000-08:00

Leafs in Sabre land tonight. Coming off an embarrassing performance in which they didn't show up till the 3rd period, Maurice will have them ready for this game. This actually is their game of the season so far, to prove they can comptete against the NHL's best. Sabres pulled it out against the Bruins the other night, but their last two have not been as dominating as before. I'll take the Buds at a huge price to sring the upset.

LEAFS +230 at www.BetBug.com

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PICK OF THE DAY

2006-11-03T09:00:00.000-08:00

Today we'll look at the big race. The BC Classic. Of course the big 3 favourites look rather unbeatable, but there is a three year old who will be a huge price, who if memory serves, about 9 months ago was considered in that same unbeatable category.

Brother Derek was the defacto winter book Derby fave and even though he finished up the track, his last comeback race, a great second to Lava Man in the Goodwood certainly sets him up to move forward in the Classic. He has the figs, he just need routine improvement, plus of course he gets the weight break. For the price, I'll take a shot with Brother Derek to remind everyone why he was so highly thought of earlier this year.

BROTHER DEREK TO WIN THE BC CLASSIC 15-1 at www.BetBug.com

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PICK OF THE DAY

2006-11-02T09:00:00.000-08:00

Breeders Cup goes this weekend. And there is one specific horse in one specific race I rather like. The Distaff will be a race everyone likes to paint Fleet Indian as unbeatable in, and indeed she has been since Pletcher took her over. But for a price, there is a horse with a horrible trip, over the wrong surface last out, who prior to that had been right there with Fleet Indian for the division lead.

Happy Ticket comes off a bad Spinster at Keeneland over the polytrack. But Churchill Downs is not Keeneland and the Distaff will be contested over a dirt surface.

Considering her speed figs and her wins earlier in the year, there is no reason at all not to like Happy Ticket at a big price to re-assert herself and win the Division crown this Saturday.

HAPPY TICKET TO WIN THE BC DISTAFF +700 at www.BetBug.com

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PICK OF THE DAY

2006-11-01T09:00:00.000-08:00

The NBA season tips tonight and with their stellar pre season under their belt, the Raptors open on the road in Jersey and AC and Mr. Kidd. No reason at all to think they won't continue either with that good play, so let's take the Raptors to inflict some early season damage on their main contender for the Division title.

RAPTORS +6 -105 www.BetBug.com

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PICK OF THE DAY

2006-10-31T09:00:00.000-08:00

On this Howel's Eve, why not a scary pick. And I don't think you could find anything scarier than the way the LA Lakers ended their season last year. Completely blowing and choking their playoff series against Phoenix away.

But I think just that experience will do loads to help Kobe and his youthful compatriots. So as our first NBA pick for the year, lets take some value and the Lake Show to bring back the glory of Showtime to Los Angeles.

LA LAKERS TO WIN THE NBA CHAMPIONSHIP +4000 at www.BetBug.com

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PICK OF THE DAY

2006-10-30T09:00:00.000-08:00

New England are in Minnesota tonight and while the Vikes surely have surpised a few people this season, the Pats are looking like they are back to or even better than their Super Bowl form of just two years ago. I actually cannot believe we get New England as such a small fave. All they have to do is basically win the game. And so they will. And this will not be close. The Patriots will bomb Minny tonight, imo, and the Vikes will be revealed for the pretenders they are.

NEW ENGLAND -1.5 -105 at www.BetBug.com

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PICK OF THE DAY

2006-10-29T09:00:00.000-08:00

Clearly, the game of the week is Indy in Denver. The Colts bring in their usual momentuous offense, but the Broncos have been just lights on on D. and they are laying just a FG at home. Remember the game two weeks ago against a very good Ravens team. Denver's offense stepped up late and against a much more porous Colts D, I expect this game to be very much in Denver's grasp a good deal earlier than the fourth quarter.

BRONCOS -3+105 www.BetBug.com

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PICK OF THE DAY

2006-10-28T09:00:00.000-07:00

The Pens young talent is finally coming together and tonight they are facing a team in Philadelphia who are going in the exact opposite direction. The Flyers are in dissaray after the firings of Clarke and Hitch last week. And yet for all this we get plus money on the Pens.

Easily the bet of the day. Take Crosyb, Malkin, Staal...gawd they have disgusting amounts of youth.

PENGUINS +125 at www.BetBug.com

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PICK OF THE DAY

2006-10-27T09:00:00.000-07:00

Tigers are at death's door this evening. But the coffin lid has not quite closed just yet. While they are down 3-1, they still have, imo, the superior pitching, and if they can squeak out tonight's game in St. Louis, they really won't be looking at too high a mountain to climb in Detroit on the weekend. Considering that just last week they were the talk of baseball, getting huge plus money on them now just 7 days later does not sound too bad.

TIGERS TO WIN THE WORLD SERIES +410 at www.BetBug.com

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PICK OF THE DAY

2006-10-25T09:00:00.000-07:00

My lock of the century this week...early for the NFL this weekend. St. Louis. They are a sure thing to cover the 9 points they are getting in San Diego. St. Louis is coming off their bye week, they have been surprising everyone this year and there is no way in hell they should more than a 1 TD favourite. Stephen Jackson is coming into his own and his running will negate the high powered offense of San Diego, keeping them off the field, and with LT getting monster touches, it will be a short game and thus the points are the way to go.

RAMS +9 -110 at www.BetBug.com

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PICK OF THE DAY

2006-10-22T09:00:00.000-07:00

New England is in Buffalo today for a meeting with their divisional rival Buffalo. And while laying more than a field goal on the road is always tough, Consider: New England is 4-2 ATS their last 6 road games in Buffalo, New England is 4-1 ATS their last 5 road games overall, and New England is 8-4 ATS their last 12 games overall.

They are going to destroy the Bills. This line is a gift, it should be 10.

PATS -5.5 -1005 at www.BetBug.com

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PICK OF THE DAY

2006-10-21T09:00:00.000-07:00

For some odd, insane reason, the Colorado Avalanche, fresh off back to back road victories over the Leafs and Sens (in regulation time nonetheless) find themselves substantial underdogs tonight against Montreal.

Now I have no love for Theodore and actually think he's always been over-rated but if he's ever going to come up with the goods, tonight will be the night and this will be the venue. The Avs are on a roll and while Montreal is not bad, I think Sakic and the boys are very likely to continue their winning road trip ways tonight. Plus the price is surely right.

AVS +135 at www.BetBug.com

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PICK OF THE DAY

2006-10-20T09:00:00.000-07:00

The Leafs read their own press clippings for three days leading up to Wednesday's game against the Avs... and they played like it. Maurice will have them ready to go against a not very good Blue Jackets team and I expect them to come out like a house on fire. But I also expect Columbus to do the same. Hence, I like a whole bunch of pucks to get past both keepers, in this new NHL.

LEAFS/BLUE JACKETS OVER 6 -125 at www.BetBug.com

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PICK OF THE DAY

2006-10-19T09:00:00.000-07:00

The Flyers were embarrassed on Tuesday night. And they are basically, other than Forsberg (who no doubt soon will be hurt), Carter, and Richards, a very slow and old team, with no chance in the new NHL.

BUT just for tonight, given what kind of performance they came up with two days ago, you just know Hitch will have them ready to play their best game of the season. In fact it may turn out to be so literally. They may not win another game after this evening, but they will win tonight, for pride, if for nothing else.

FLYERS +115 at www.BetBug.com

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PICK OF THE DAY

2006-10-18T09:00:00.000-07:00

Well the Leafs have certainly made a mockery of some of the more "reasoned" predictions about their team. They are near the top of the league in goal scoring this season, at 3.7 goals/game. Is Maurice just this good a coach? To be able to turn his sow's ear into a silk purse? I say yes. And more to the point I think the players have really bought into his system. Colorado are certainly not the team they once were, there's no longer any Blake or Forsberg to take some of the load of Sakic, and Mr. Theodore is showing with his not examplary play why Gainey got rid of him last year.

MAPLE LEAFS -140 at www.BetBug.com

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PICK OF THE DAY

2006-10-17T09:00:00.000-07:00

After the rainout last night, the NLCS gets back in business tonight.

In what has been a tight series so far I actually give a small edge to the Mets now, just due to home field and the presence of a former Blue Jay. Carlos Delgado is having a monstrous series and may in the end actually eclipse Puhols as the best player in this series. Together with what is expected to be a good effort from Glavine on the road, I like the Mets at the price not just tonight, but to take the series and face the Tigers on the weekend.

METS -145 SERIES LINE at www.BetBug.com

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PICK OF THE DAY

2006-10-15T09:00:00.000-07:00

The disintegration of teams Terrel Owens plays for continues this week. Dallas are huge favourites over the Texans but I like the other Texas team this week, to if not spring an upset, to certainly keep it within two touchdowns.

Houston comes off a win over Miama, and granted, beating the Fish is not exactly difficult these days, but hell this is Houston we're talking about. A win is a win. With Carr and Johnson, just that little bit of extra confidence can go a long way to future success.

T.O. has apparently gone off on one of his coaches. Gee what a shock. Dallas will not be focused for this, with all the distractions Mr. Owens brings and coming off their huge Philly game the week before.

The Texans are the pick.

HOUSTON +13 -105 at www.BetBug.com

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PICK OF THE DAY

2006-10-14T09:00:00.000-07:00

After their 1-0 victory over the Sens on Thursday, the Flames head down the 401 to take on Ontario's other team, the Leafs.

Toronto was embarrassed by the Devils Thursday, blowing a 3 goal lead in the third and losing in the shootout.

That however was with Aubin in net. Tonight, Raycroft will be back and with the Flames lack of scoring and their excellent D and goaltending, together with the fact you know that Maurice will have the boys focused on Defence tonight, I love the Under here.

The Total has gone under in 9 of Calgary's last 10 games, stretching over two seasons and in 4 of Toronto's first 5 games this season.

CAL/TOR UNDER 5 +110 at www.BetBug.com

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PICK OF THE DAY

2006-10-13T09:00:00.000-07:00

Game 3 of the Tigers/A's series goes tonight and while it may in fact look like the series is over, I must disagree with that assessment.

Harden is pitching for Oakland and I actually think he should have gone in Game 2. He is going to have a big effort tonight against the venerable Kenny Rogers, who I just don't think is going to be able to hold up through out these playoffs. He's 105 for heavens sake!

Plus the price is certainly right to take a stab on the A's to get back in it tonight.

ATHLETICS +133 at www.BetBug.com

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PICK OF THE DAY

2006-10-12T09:00:00.000-07:00

Well barring any more weather, we should finally start the NLCS tonight.

In early July if I had told you that the Mets and the Cards would be meeting to contest the Pennant you would have been, "gee Sherlock, thanks for the tip!" Of course they're going to meet, they're the two best teams.

But since then they both have fallen on hard times to say the least. The Mets pitching staff has been decimated by injury and the the Cards tried to give away their division to...gasp...the Astros.

Fortunately they both pulled it together last week and have advanced. And now?

Well as mentioned above, the Boys from Queens find their pitching in disarray and while you may be able to overcome that in a 5 game series, a 7 game series should allow St. Louis to eventually have their way with them, especially if Puhols lives up to his usual destructive self vs the Mets.

CARDS -170 at www.BetBug.com

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PICK OF THE DAY

2006-10-11T09:00:00.000-07:00

After getting outplayed, but not out goaltended, by the Leafs on Monday night, The Panthers return home tonight to face the winnless Stanley Cup champs. I know Carolina did indeed win it all last year, but they have yet to put it together this season. And they are the favourite! I don't think so. While Florida may have looked terrible in their second game of the season, they played great in their first and Aubin was fanatastic against the Leafs in their third. With Carolina's losses due to injuries on D and up front (Stillman), I think the wrong team is favoured here.

PANTHERS +105 at www.BetBug.com

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PICK OF THE DAY

2006-10-08T09:00:00.000-07:00

The game getting all the hype this week is of course Dallas at Philadelphia. And for some odd reason, this seems to have had an impact on the line.

Phily is not favored by anywhere near enough points. Other than their one catostrophic quarter against the Giants, the Eagles have done nothing wrong this season. Dallas, while looking good in spurts and against some questionable opposition, is not in the same class as Philly. Plus the Eagles own the Cowboys at home, gaving gone 6-1 SU their last 7 home games against Philly.

Add in the distraction of the overly medicated Mr. Owens, plus the motivation the Eagles will have to show TO they do not need him to win, well I think this is a gimme for the Eagles.

PHILADELPHIA -1.5 -110 at www.BetBug.com

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PICK OF THE DAY

2006-10-07T09:00:00.000-07:00

Yet another huge SEC matchup (aren't they all?) today. LSU heads to Florida to take on the Gators. Normally Florida giving up less than a FG at home would be an automatic play, but this LSU is seriously good. Their point differntial this season is 10 points per game better than Florida's, at +30.6 vs Floriday's +20.8.

In fact the wrong team is probably favoured in this contest. The Gators are picking up their first loss of the season this afternoon.

LSU +1.5 -105 at www.BetBug.com

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PICK OF THE DAY

2006-10-06T09:00:00.000-07:00

Yankees/Tigers Game 3 tonight. After the rainout on Wednesday, the Tigers somehow found a way to steal Game 2 yesterday. I don't think that will be occuring again tonight. Even though the Tigers will be hosting their first pre-season game in just about 2 decades, they are going up against Randy Johnson, who when healthy, is still one of the best in the game. And of course then you have the Evil Empire's offence. They led the league this year at 5.8 runs/game. All Johnson has to be is even semi proficient and this line-up will take care of the rest.

YANKEES -159 at www.BetBug.com

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PICK OF THE DAY

2006-10-05T09:00:00.000-07:00

Unlike last night's opening slate of games, tonight in the NHL we actually see a full schedule.

And there is a game I love.

Flyers at Penguins.

Quite simply, I think Pitsburgh will be monumentally improved this year. Crosby apparently became even tougher on the puck and stronger in his legs in the off season. Gonchar is not going to duplicate his atrocious year again. Remember this was the pre-eminent offensive defenseman in the league just a few short years ago. You don't lose skills like that overnight.

Plus they are starting the year with a real coach (i.e. NOT EDDIE O) and that will make a huge difference.

The Flyers are good, no doubt about it, and Forsberg looks to be ready for one of his healthy seasons, but for the price I'll take the Pens to win in front of the home crowd and set a new tone for the new season.

PENGUINS +155 at www.BetBug.com

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PICK OF THE DAY

2006-10-04T09:00:00.000-07:00

The Leafs open up their season tonight against the Sens.

Last year, without fail, this matchup was a mortal lock for the Senators. But this is not the same Ottawa team AT ALL as dominated the league last season. The losses of Havlat, Chara, and especially Hasek leave Ottawa a far less talented team.

Not that the Toronto Maple Leafs exactly ooze skill and talent themselves mind you.

But with Paul Maurice behind the bench, Toronto will at least be prepared out of the gates this year, as opposed to last season, when with Quinn, the Leafs looked like they were still trying to find their game well into the first month of the season.

It may be for only one night, but I think for this game, the Leafs, with their new bench boss, will prevail.

That and the fact that people do not realize just how much the Sens have lost in terms of their overall team talent level.

Oh ya...and there's also the issue of Mr. Gerber and Mr. Emery. Can you say disaster waiting to happen?

TORONTO +140 at www.BetBug.com

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PICK OF THE DAY

2006-10-03T09:00:00.000-07:00

With the baseball playoffs upon us, let us take a step back from the day to day grind of picks and cast our minds off into the future for a moment and attempt to discern a winner of this little 8 team (and it ought to be only 2...PENNANT RACE...hello) tournament.

What you can surely say is that there is not dominant team coming into these playoffs. For a while the Tigers were the best MLB had to offer, but then they stumbled. The Yankees of course always have a shot, but geez...that pitching staff is not what it once was. Their cross town rivals, the Mets, have looked good all year, but really...who did they beat? The rest of the NL barely stumbled into the playoffs.

There is one team that not many are talking about however. And that would be the Oakland Athletics. Flying relatively under the radar, Billy Beane has simply done what he always does. Win on a ridiculously shoe string budget. And I have a feeling that this is the year he finally gets off the schneide in the playoffs.

The A's pitching matches up well with at least anyone's in the AL and probably all of the NL's. Oakland certainly has far less pressure on them than the Yankees, and even probably than the Tigers, who while much was not expected of them at the beginning of the year, are now considered to be quite good and will be a big dissapointment if they come up short.

Since I happen to believe the AL is far the superior league anyway, being able to beat out their fellow junior circuit contenders is really all that matters in my mind, and at the price on offer, I think Oakland will do just that.

OAKLAND +900 TO WIN THE WORLD SERIES at www.BetBug.com
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PICK OF THE DAY

2006-10-02T09:00:00.000-07:00

Green Bay checks into Philadelphia tonight as the Pack take on the Eagles.

A few years ago this would have been one of the marquee matchups of the year. Now? Well let's just say it's not exactly on par with last night's Seahawks/Bears game now is it?

Brett Favre is still able to throw the ball 50 times per game, but the problem for Green Bay, is usually that is exacly what he has to do. And that is a sure fire recipe for failure in the NFL. If the other team knows exactly what you are going to do, you will lose.

Philly, after their collapse against the Giants two weeks ago, returned to reality with a very dominant demolition of the hapless 49'ers last week. Really, the Eagles should be 3-0, whereas Green Bay may actually be lucky to not be 0-3. The Lions had a shot at them for at least a while last weekend.

And unfortunately for Mr. Favre and his team, the Eagles just own the Pack as of late, going 5-0 ATS in their last 5 games when playing Green Bay, and 5-0 ATS their last 5 at home against Green Bay.

With McNabb coming off his 296 yard and 2 TD performance against San Fran, he should have more than enough confidence to lead his Eagles to a sound thrashing of the once great, but now shadow of their former selves Packers.

PHILADELPHIA -11.5 -105 at www.BetBug.com

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PICK OF THE DAY

2006-10-01T09:00:00.000-07:00

Big game tonight on NBC's Sunday Night Football.

The Seahawks meet the Bears in what could very well be a battle between the two best teams in the NFL.

But in this particular case, the boys from the Emerald City are rather undermanned as their stud running back Shaun Alexander is out indefinitely with a hairline fracture to his left foot.

It's not just that Alexander is so good or so dominent, it's that he allows Hasselback such freedom to throw the ball with impunity because teams just have to respect the run so much. Without him, Seattle is not the same team.

To make matters worse for the Seahawks, Rex Grossman has actually begun to look like a capable NFL QB recently. And the Bears are 6-1 ATS in their last 7 home games.

Just can't see the Seahawks, off a cross country trip, having much in the cold at Soldier Field tonight.

CHICAGO -3.5 +105 at www.BetBug.com

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PICK OF THE DAY

2006-09-30T09:00:00.000-07:00

Well, I guess OSU is not exactly the powerhouse everyone thought they might be now are they?

Last week's desultry performance has the Buckeyes looking very vulnerable on the road tonight up against a very tough Iowa Hawkeyes team who, while not getting the press OSU does, are also 4-0.

In addition, just guess how many games Iowa have lost at home in their last 25? That would be exactly ONE!

With Drew Tate manning the offense, this is not a team to take lightly and this is also not a team to be laying points against.

IOWA +6.5 -105 at www.BetBug.com

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PICK OF THE DAY

2006-09-29T09:00:00.000-07:00

An early NFL pick today for the weekend.

A great matchup here in week 3. Possibly even an AFC Championship preview. Phillip Rivers and the San Diego Chargers invade M&T Bank Stadium to take on Ray Lewis and the Baltimore Ravens.

Both teams are undefeated and both should be ready for what promises to be the game of the season so far.

Everyone will be expecting the Charger offense to continue it's rather explosive record so far, averaging 33.5 points per game. And even the Ravens offense, behind McNair has averaged 23.3 points per game, which for Baltimore is huge.

But I prefer to focus on the other side of the ball. In addition to their great offense, the Chargers actually have being playing well without the ball, giving up a paltry 3.5 points per game. And of course the Ravens are the Ravens in this category, allowing opposing teams only 6.7 points per game.

In addition to this, the trends favor the Under. The Under is 7/8 in San Diego's last 8 games and 5/6 in the last 6 games between these two teams.

Need I say more?

Look for a tight, defensive struggle between two quality teams.

SAN DIEGO/BALTIMORE UNDER 33.5 -105 at www.BetBug.com

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PICK OF THE DAY

2006-09-28T09:00:00.000-07:00

Tonight's big SEC matchup has Auburn invading South Carolina at Williams-Brice Stadium. A home venue where the Gamecocks just so happen to be 6-2 Against The Spread in their last eight games played there. They are also 8-2 ATS in their last 10 over-all. Now don't get me wrong, Auburn is a great team but let's all just remember, they are but a missed FG away from being not amongst the ranks of the unbeaten.

And they are laying a huge number of points in this game...on the road.

I'll take the Gamecocks, at home, in a big night interconference matchup to at least keep the score close.

SOUTH CAROLINA +14 -105 at www.BetBug.com

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