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At 33 and after two serious injuries in the shoulder in the years 2004 and 2005, Pennington is at risk of having his career ended prematurely. Indeed, it is striking that Pennington is the quarterback with the best percentage of all completions in NFL betting history. The 66.1% of their shipments online in ten-year career is over any quarterback, even as the great Joe Montana, Terry Bradshaw, Troy Aikman, Joe Namath, etc..

However, strangely the Carolina Panthers, a team that was viewed as dangerous offensively to have the run of DeAngelo Williams and Steve Smith air on Monday night became a weak team because of poor execution Jake Delhomme, quarterback, which in only three games and has accumulated more than five interceptions.

The Dallas Cowboys scored a victory after being the team with the greatest amount of penalties and punishments in the game. Tony Romo completed 22 passes for 255 yards and no touchdowns, his counterpart in North Carolina completed 22 passes for 220 yards, one touchdown and two interceptions.

Tony Romo to date fails to maintain a steady performance last week despite suffering a defeat did better numbers. Clearly, the absence of Marion Barber is a very important factor in Dallas, but it is likely that the fullback back to the field for next week when they face the unbeaten Denver Broncos.

Oakland Raiders @ Houston Texans (-9.5)

Sunday, October 4, 1:00 p.m. ET

There’s just no possible way to frame this NFL betting line as a possible win for the Raiders. Oakland is awful, just awful, and faces a potent Houston offense on the road. The Texans have been as bad as any team defensively so far this season but that won’t matter; JaMarcus Russell is so bad that he and the Raiders won’t exploit any openings the Texans give them. Pick Houston with confidence.

Betting services recommend: Texans -9.5

Baltimore Ravens @ New England Patriots (-2)

Sunday, October 4, 1:00 p.m. ET

Is it or isn’t it? Everyone wants to know if the Patriots’ dynasty is ending. The Pats quieted critics in Week 3 – sort of. They got the win but Tom Brady struggled with his throwing mechanics and was visibly upset on the sidelines. Against the Ravens, who lead the NFL in run defense, Brady has to be better. Since Baltimore is so relentless and since its offense is catching up to its “D” thanks to Joe Flacco behind center, I like Baltimore to pull off the minor upset.

Betting services recommend: Ravens +2

New York Giants (-9) @ Kansas City Chiefs

Sunday, October 4, 1:00 p.m. ET

Here’s your lock of the week. The Giants are mowing down everyone; they stymied the Redskins, lit up the scoreboard against Dallas and shut out the Buccaneers. Eli Manning looks like a Pro Bowler so far this season and has established a nice rapport with his young wideouts. Brandon Jacobs and Ahmad Bradshaw are delivering on expectations. The Giants should score a ton and their tough pass rush should terrorize Matt Cassel and the Chiefs’ O-line. There are few safer sports picks than this one in Week 4.

Betting services recommend: Giants -9

Carolina Panthers @ Dallas Cowboys

Monday, September 28, 8:35 p.m. ET

NFL odds favorite: Cowboys -8.5

After Dallas crumbled late versus the Giants last week, it wants to take out its frustration. The Carolina Panthers may be just the team to play punching bag for the Cowboys.

Tony Romo was horrible for the Cowboys last week, throwing three picks and struggling with his accuracy all night. The Panthers have been quite beatable so far, however. Matt Ryan lit them up last week and Donovan McNabb found the end zone with several passes the week before. Perhaps the problem is Carolina’s inability to rush the passer. The Panthers have just two sacks in two games and Julius Peppers is under the gun after struggling mightily to start the year. Tony Romo should have way more time to throw the ball this week.

The Cowboys should also run wild on Carolina. Even if Marion Barber sits the game out, explosive Felix Jones can handle starting duties. Workhorse Tashard Choice, who excelled down the stretch filing in for Barber and Jones last season, is also up to the task. The Panthers are allowing 168 yards rushing so far this season, so the Dallas runners are licking their chops.

Though the Cowboys are a pretty safe betting management pick to cover, you should bet over the total of 47, as the Panthers should score a lot too. Dallas ranks 30th in the NFL in total defense after losing to the Giants and letting the Bucs run wild on them in week 1. The Cowboys will keep a lid on Jake Delhomme – everyone does nowadays – but DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart could both have big days.

Top off your NFL picks by betting on the Cowboys to cover the 8.5-point spread and go over the 47-point total.

Sportsbetting.com currently have the Tigers listed as 12-point favorites versus the Bulldogs, while the game's total is sitting at 44.

LSU took it to state rival Louisiana-Lafayette, scoring a 31-3 victory at Tiger Stadium in Week 3.

LSU covered as a 27-point home favorite while the final score played under the 53.5-point total.

Mississippi State won a 15-3 slugfest with Vanderbilt at Vanderbilt Stadium in Week 3.

MSU covered as a 8.5-point road underdog while the final score played under the 45.5-point total.

Current streak:
LSU has won 3 straight games.

Team records:
LSU: 3-0 SU, 1-2 ATS

Mississippi State: 2-1 SU, 1-1 ATS

LSU most recently:
When playing in September are 10-0

When playing on grass are 5-5

After outgaining opponent are 7-3

When playing within the conference are 5-5

Mississippi State most recently:
When playing in September are 5-5

When playing on grass are 5-5

After outgaining opponent are 3-7

When playing within the conference are 3-7

A few trends to consider:
LSU is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing Mississippi State

The total has gone OVER in 5 of LSU's last 5 games when playing Mississippi State

LSU is 5-0 ATS in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Mississippi State

LSU is 6-1 SU in its last 7 games when playing on the road against Mississippi State

The total has gone OVER in 5 of Mississippi State's last 5 games when playing LSU

Mississippi State is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games at home

Mississippi State is 2-10 ATS in its last 12 games when playing LSU

Mississippi State is 1-6 SU in its last 7 games when playing at home against LSU

Hardwick, a veteran of six years with the San Diego Charges, member of the Pro-Bowl in 2006, suffered a severe blow on September 14 in the debut season in Oakland. He missed the 31-26 home loss against the Baltimore Ravens and is so far that dictates the severity of the injury.

The San Diego Chargers concern to managers and fans, the team this season has lost important offensive and defensive players, which has been reflected significantly in the statistical results and conclusively on the scoreboard.

It is highly likely that LaDainian Tomlinson lost a new party, Shawne Merriman is also limited in practice. The Chargers' offense only has Darren Sproles to work most of the land and the defensive strength of the franchise could falter. Coach Norv Turner says the workouts have been favorable in this theme, however also said that they have reviewed the list of players to add a new name to their roster.

"I would not be in a position like this." Norv Turner said. "It's hard to lose a player regardless of the weather. I hope everything is settled, for now we have Scott Mruczkowski as a reserve in the center, but clearly we must be mobilized soon. "

Sportsbetting.com currently have the Tigers listed as 33-point favorites versus the Cardinals, while the game's total is sitting at 56.

Army put up a touchdown in the fourth quarter in Week 3 to give them a 24-17 win over Ball State.

The Black Knights failed to cover the 9-point spread in that contest, while the combined score fell just UNDER the day's posted total (42).

Auburn scored 21 points in the second half as they got past West Virginia 41-30 in Week 3. Auburn covered the 7-point spread, while the 71 points sailed OVER the night's posted total of 55.

Chris Todd threw for 289 yards with four touchdowns to lead the way.

Current streak:
Ball State has lost 3 straight games.

Auburn has won 3 straight games.

Team records:
Ball State: 0-3 SU, 0-2 ATS

Auburn: 3-0 SU, 3-0 ATS

Ball State most recently:
When playing in September are 6-4

When playing on grass are 3-7

After outgaining opponent are 8-2

When playing outside the conference are 4-6

Auburn most recently:
When playing in September are 8-2

When playing on grass are 5-5

After being outgained are 4-6

When playing outside the conference are 8-2

A few trends to consider:
Ball State is 6-2 SU in its last 8 games on the road

Ball State is 12-5 SU in its last 17 games

Ball State is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games

Auburn is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games at home

Auburn is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games

New York Giants (-6) @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Sunday, September 27, 1:00 p.m. ET

Eli Manning may have taken his game to a new level in leading the Giants to a come-from-behind victory against the Cowboys last week. Lacking a true No. 1 receiver, he’s made the most of Steve Smith and Mario Manningham and is suddenly developing a nice rapport with them. After handling Washington and Dallas’ solid defenses, he should have no trouble picking apart the disappointing Tampa unit. Byron Leftwich and the Bucs offense have been better than expected but they aren’t prepared for the swarming Giants front seven. It could get ugly.

Betting services recommend: Giants -6

Washington Redskins (-6.5) @ Detroit Lions

Sunday, September 27, 1:00 p.m. ET

OK, folks – here’s the first big upset pick of the season. Think about it. The Redskins are favored by a touchdown on the road when they barely got by the Rams last week, scraping by 9-7. Now, they face a Lions team with much better offensive weapons that St. Louis. Matt Stafford may have the time he needs to avoid getting flustered; the Redskins haven’t gotten to the quarterback, recording only two sacks through two games. Don’t be surprised if Calvin Johnson goes off. Even if you don’t think the Lions will win, don’t you think they can beat a 6.5 spread at home against an anemic offense?

Betting services recommend: Lions +6.5

San Francisco 49ers @ Minnesota Vikings (-6.5)

Sunday, September 27, 1:00 p.m. ET

Time to really find out if the 49ers’ NFL odds are legit. Frank Gore carved up Seattle, but can he handle the Williams Wall? If the Vikings shut him down, San Fran will have to throw the ball. Shaun Hill seems more like a caretaker despite his good win-loss record; I don’t think he can carry the 49ers when he needs to. The 49er “D” has been strong but facing Adrian Peterson is a major upgrade from Tim Hightower and Julius Jones.

Betting services recommend: Vikings -6.5

Head coach Wade Philips said Barber underwent an MRI on Monday afternoon, a day after being injured on a carry of 35 yards in the fourth quarter of the 33-31 defeat they suffered against the New York Giants.

"We do not know what happens to Barber." Philips said. "I think the injury will not be a problem for us, I think we were lucky in this case."

Barber made a carry of 35 yards, just as he distanced himself and opened the field to even reach the end zone, Barber fell to the ground holding his leg showing sharp pain, then left the area on foot seizing the opportunity to get more points in the score for his team.

Barber got 18 carries for 124 yards and a touchdown, the first recorded in the new stadium of the franchise. On Monday Night Football Dallas will host the Carolina Panthers with its powerful air defense, that's when the Cowboys will have to move the ball on the ground, transforming Barber's injury a danger to your computer.

Tiger Woods (+125)

It’s been a strange year for Tiger, who’s been “off his game” yet has six wins. After winning two weeks ago, his +125 odds to win are the best he’s had all year. Driving accuracy be damned; Tiger is back in one of his grooves and seems poised to win another tournament. He won the Tour Championship at the same host course, East Lake, two years ago, so he’s comfortable there.

Zach Johnson (+2050)

Johnson’s short, accurate golf shots have served him well in 2009, leading to two wins and countless other weeks of contending in online sports betting. While He hasn’t won at East Lake, he knows what it takes to set it on fire; he holds the course record at 60. He played well at the BMW two weeks ago so it wouldn’t be a stretch to see him flourish this week.

Mike Weir (+5250)

Weir has quietly enjoyed a resurgence this season, posting eight top-20 finishes. While he has just two top-10s, he’s always in the hunt through the weekend. On a course like East Lake that rewards accuracy, Weir’s solid putting stroke and short game make him an intriguing sports pick, especially with his big value.

Padraig Harrington (+1415)

Paddy’s turnaround is almost complete. After no top 10s in his first 15 tournaments this season, the 2008 Player of the Year has five straight top-10s. He’s playing good golf when it matters, especially when it comes to scrambling and putting. Could he finally break through and win the last big tourney of the year?

Betting services recommend: Tiger Woods +125. The key with Tiger is to follow his streaks; when he’s playing with confidence, there’s no point betting against him. He should inch one step closer to Jack Nicklaus this week.

Messi, who on Friday extended his contract with the Catalan club until 2016 and became the highest-paid footballer in the world, scored two goals and assisted on another as to consolidate the team as Barca Spanish championship leader.

As in the last league game played between them in the Camp Nou (Barcelona won 6-1), the homeowner won at the initial half hour match and then spent the second half to regulate the physical.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic scored the first goal of the night two minutes of play. Then the 'Flea' increased with an excellent definition, in the 16th minute, while Dani Alves free-kick increased, at 30 '. Thus, Seydou Keita scored the fourth goal in the 41 'and Messi himself closed the account for the 92'.

For its part, the very Agi ¿½ ero discounted in the final minute of the first half and Diego Forlan decorated the result, at 84 '. Thus, the Barcelona football showed an abysmal difference compared to Aleti and established himself as leader of the League. Meanwhile, just joined Atletico a point from three games and are located on the second bottom in the standings.

"I'm very happy with the result. We could make our game in the first half showed that we played very, very well. In the second half we relaxed, but it was evident, according to the result," said Zlatan Ibrahimovic.

Sevilla missed the absence of Luis Fabiano and visitor beat Osasuna 2-0 to add his second consecutive win in the league and end a streak of eleven official visits to Pamplona without victory.

"I remember the last time we won in Pamplona, I was on the field. So I was very happy to have cut this run and maintain the winning philosophy of Seville," said coach Manolo Jimenez.

The coach decided to marginalize the call to Luis Fabiano, who suffered some muscle discomfort, for the run of games.

The visit found the tools to operate without the Brazilian and, indeed, took all three points thanks to a goal from every striker Alvaro Negredo opened the scoring in the 36th minute, while Frederick Kanoute sentenced the 69 '.

The main virtue to be found in the posing of Manolo Jimenez is based on their ability to perform the parts in the computer. Without completely change the structures, managed to get a good physical performance of each player and kept the same game plan.

So solidly replace Adriano did Jesus Navas on the right wing, while Alvaro Negredo proved perfect for Sevilla's starting forwards.

Argentine winger fulfilled another giant task and made a new dedication to earn a call from Diego Maradona, facing the last days of South American qualifying.

Mallorca maintained the strength of local and thrashed 4-0 at Tenerife, to register as temporary escort of Barcelona.

Mario Suarez opened the score at 16 minutes. Meanwhile, Nathan Eccleston and Julio Alvarez buried the hopes of the visitors early in the second half (50 'and 58') and Pierre Webó sealed the win with a penalty both at the 88th.

Tenerife suffered the expulsion of Ezequiel Luna (76 ') and Marc Bertrand (87), on the play that caused the fourth goal of the criminal Mallorca.

That was the best rider of the League and even a few years ago, now becomes a player plagued by injuries, while not ruled out playing the next game against Baltimore, it is clear that LaDainian Tomlinson may not be 100 % in the field, even with great effort and a grave danger of suffering a serious injury that lingers even more during the regular season.

To make matters worse the San Diego Chargers center Nick Hardwick maintain and right guard Louis Vasquez on the injured list.

"We have no rules of probability on our side." Turner said in November, coach of the Chargers. "Players who have practiced today have the best chance of winning. The rest of the players, those injured or who have failed to train, your chances begin to fade. "

The team eventually will have to rely on the strength of Darren Sproles, who last season corrected most of the mistakes he made the offensive line, meanwhile LaDainian Tomlinson becomes a player who commits his team and himself, now that back from the worst season of his career.

Cincinnati Bengals @ Green Bay Packers (-9)

Sunday, September 20, 1:00 p.m. ET

The Packers were impressive last week but for a different reason than expected. Instead of showcasing their juggernaut offense, the Pack unveiled a dominant, athletic young defense that made life miserable for Jay Cutler and the Bears. If they could manhandle the Bears, they shouldn’t have any trouble against a suspect Cincinnati line and a less mobile quarterback in Carson Palmer. Green Bay’s O-line was a concern last week but Aaron Rodgers will find a way to put points on the board anyway. The Packers are safe NFL picks to cover the spread.

Betting software recommends: Packers -9

Carolina Panthers @ Atlanta Falcons (-6)

Sunday, September 20, 1:00 p.m. ET

Considering how bad Jake Delhomme was against the Eagles last week, turning the ball over five times, it’s amazing that the NFL betting spread is just six points. Delhomme was so atrocious that he affected his entire team indirectly. His turnovers kept the Panther “D” on the field forever, so it tired out and got beat by Donovan McNabb. Because the Eagles didn’t have to respect his arm, they stacked the box against DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart, holding them to 72 yards on 25 carries. The same should happen this week, as Matt Ryan, Tony Gonzalez and the balanced Falcon attack should torch a tired Panther “D” and force a few giveaways.

Betting software recommends: Falcons -6

Baltimore Ravens @ San Diego Chargers (-3)

Sunday, September 20, 4:15 p.m. ET

Were the Chargers a bit rusty last week or is something up? They had a decent amount of trouble getting past Oakland, so that doesn’t bode well for their chances against Baltimore. The Ravens did, however, have an easy opponent in Kansas City, so we have to take their big win with a grain of salt. The key may be Baltimore’s passing game, which looked great against the Chiefs. Joe Flacco and company won’t be that good every week, but they do look improved and the Chargers’ pass defense isn’t anything special. Pick the Ravens.

Betting software recommends: Ravens +3

Sportsbetting currently have the Buckeyes listed as 20½-point favorites versus the Rockets, while the game's total is sitting at 58.

Ohio State was defeated 18-15 by USC in Week 2 as 7-point underdogs. The teams played UNDER the posted total of 45.5.

Daniel Herron had 44 yards rushing with a touchdown in that loss for Ohio State.

Aaron Opelt threw four touchdown passes and ran for a pair of scores to lead Toledo to a 54-38 victory over Colorado in Week 2, as 4-point underdogs. That game's 92 points sailed OVER the posted total of 56.

Opelt finished with 319 yards passing in that contest, and rushed for 109 yards off eight carries.

Team records:
Ohio State: 1-1 SU, 1-1 ATS

Toledo: 1-1 SU, 1-1 ATS

Ohio State most recently:
When playing in September are 8-2

When playing on turf are 8-2

After being outgained are 10-0

When playing outside the conference are 6-4

Toledo most recently:
When playing in September are 3-7

When playing on turf are 3-7

After outgaining opponent are 2-8

When playing outside the conference are 4-6

A few trends to consider:
Ohio State is 5-0 ATS in its last 5 games on the road

Ohio State is 17-3 SU in its last 20 games on the road

Ohio State is 19-6 SU in its last 25 games

Toledo is 7-3 ATS in its last 10 games at home

The total has gone OVER in 4 of Toledo's last 6 games

The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Toledo's last 6 games at home

Toledo is 2-5 SU in its last 7 games at home

Juan Manuel Marquez (55-4-1) is a tough opponent – fast, capable of knocking guys out and comfortable climbing weight classes. The big question, however, is if he brings anything to the table Mayweather (39-0) hasn’t seen before. Marquez is fast, but Mayweather is known for being the fastest guy around. Marquez has KO ability, but Mayweather has the nickname “Pretty Boy Floyd” for a reason; no one can hit him, so his face never gets touched when he fights. Even if Marquez does get a hand on Mayweather, it’s hard to say if he’ll do any damage; Mayweather is the bigger fighter, meaning he’ll feel Marquez’s shots less and inflict more damage with his own punches.

Some betting management experts think rustiness could be an X-factor going against Mayweather, who hasn’t fought for almost two years. But Marquez is 36, past his prime and four years older than Mayweather, so it’s tough to imagine him being the fresher fighter.

The Mayweather Marquez odds could shift if Marquez finds a way to outsmart Mayweather. He could try to assault him with body blasts, but plenty of Mayweather’s other opponents entered fights with that strategy only to whiff again and again as Mayweather avoided getting hit.

Though he’s been retired for a while, Mayweather still has a reason to be hungry; at 39-0, he’s 11 wins away from breaking Rocky Marciano’s perfect career mark of 49-0. If he could break that record – and beat Manny Pacquiao along the way – he’d retire among the sport’s all-time greats.

Go with Mayweather Jr. at -425 in your sports picks. He’s younger, bigger, faster, and hungrier than people may think.

(14) Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets vs (20) Miami Hurricanes

Thursday, September 17, 7:30 p.m. ET

Online betting favorite: Miami -4.5

Miami joined the Top-25 after upsetting Florida State 38-34 last weekend. The road victory was punctuated by a great effort from sophomore quarterback Jacory Harris, who tossed two scores and a career high 386 yards. He spread the football around very well, making Miami's attack difficult to slow down, though sophomore wide out Travis Benjamin did haul in 128 yards and a touchdown.

Defensively, the Hurricanes have some work to do after allowing over 400 yards. They did produce a pair of turnovers, but injuries to safties Vaughn Telemaque and Ryan Hill and defensive end Eric Moncur should give second thoughts to gambling software and bettors alike.

The Yellow Jackets have rolled up back-to-back wins to open the season, though they fell asleep at the switch last week and nearly blew a big lead against Clemson; a 24-7 halftime edge was quickly erased and it took a last-minute field goal for Georgia Tech to finish off the Tigers.

Georgia Tech lives and dies with its ground game and triple-option offense. It rolled up 301 yards at 6.1 yards per pop against Clemson, and the team currently ranks fourth in the nation in rushing. If the ground game falters, so will the entire team—quarterback Josh Nesbitt was just 3-14 for 83 yards and two interceptions last week (although he does have 184 yards rushing this season).

Blowing a big lead against Clemson may actually help Georgia Tech's NCAA football odds; the defense should enter this contest primed and focused. The Hurricanes will need a tremendous performance offensively to stay in this game—they surrendered 472 rushing yards to the Yellow Jackets in last year's 41-23 blowout loss. Considering much of the personnel remains the same, and Miami is nursing some injuries on defense, its likely Georgia Tech will simply have too much firepower in this one.

The Hurricanes will keep it close early, but the unrelenting Georgia Tech rush will prove too much for Miami and eventually the yardage—and scores—will pile up.

Sports picks: Georgia Tech +4.5

Jacksonville Jaguars @ Indianapolis Colts (-7)

Sunday, September 13, 1:00 p.m. ET

This AFC South matchup could be a high-scoring affair. The Jaguar pass defense is suspect and the Colts are eager to re-establish themselves as the NFL’s best passing team. Peyton Manning will throw early and often to his array of useful targets, including Reggie Wayne, Dallas Clark and Anthony Gonzalez, testing the Jag secondary. On the flip side, with Bob Sanders on the mend, the Indy run defense may be ineffective. That means Maurice Jones-Drew could have a field day. Consider betting over the total and pick Indy to cover the seven-point spread in a barn burner.

Betting services recommend: Colts -7

New York Jets @ Houston Texans

Sunday, September 13, 1:00 p.m. ET

Are the Houston Texans finally ready to make the playoffs? They’ll try to earn our trust as NFL picks with a flashy offensive performance in Week 1 and I think they’re up to the task. Ultra-accurate Matt Schaub has great chemistry with Andre Johnson, Owen Daniels and the many other weapons at his disposal; he’ll pick apart a Jets defense that should improve this year but may start slowly with Calvin Pace and Shaun Ellis suspended. Mark Sanchez makes his NFL debut behind center for Gang Green and, while the Texans aren’t a difficult matchup, he may still have jitters and make some mistakes.

Betting services recommend: Texans -4.5

Chicago Bears @ Green Bay Packers (-3.5)

Sunday, September 13, 8:20 p.m. ET

If you thought Tennessee/Pittsburgh was the NFL betting game of the week, you’d be wrong. The Bears and Packers, two of three possible Super Bowl contenders in the NFC North, resume their rivalry Sunday night. We can expect passing, passing and more passing in this matchup with Jay Cutler and Aaron Rodgers going head to head. I give the slight edge to Green Bay; while we can’t put too much stock into the preseason, it’s abundantly clear the Pack’s aerial attack is a cohesive, well-oiled machine. The Bears should improve through the air but have some kinks to work out and no go-to No. 1 wideouts. Jay Cutler forces throws into traffic sometimes and, while the Packer “D” is a work in progress, it does have playmakers who could pick Cutler off at crucial moments.

Betting services recommend: Packers -3.5

The East Carolina Pirates and the West Virginia Mountaineers will both be trying to pick up a win on Saturday when they battle at Mountaineer Field at Milan Puskar Stadium.

Bodog Sportsbook currently have the Mountaineers listed as 6½-point favorites versus the Pirates, while the game's total is sitting at 44.

A few trends to consider:
East Carolina is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games

The total has gone UNDER in 4 of East Carolina's last 5 games on the road

The total has gone UNDER in 4 of East Carolina's last 5 games when playing West Virginia

East Carolina is 1-5 ATS in its last 6 games when playing on the road against West Virginia

West Virginia is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against East Carolina

West Virginia is 22-3 SU in its last 25 games at home

West Virginia is 7-1 SU in its last 8 games when playing East Carolina

West Virginia is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games when playing at home against East Carolina

Team records:
Iowa: 1-0 SU, 0-0 ATS

Iowa State: 1-0 SU, 0-0 ATS

Sportsbetting.com currently have the Hawkeyes listed as 6-point favorites versus the Cyclones, while the game's total is sitting at 46½.

Team records:
Iowa: 1-0 SU, 0-0 ATS

Iowa State: 1-0 SU, 0-0 ATS

Iowa most recently:
When playing in September are 5-5

When playing on grass are 7-3

After being outgained are 7-3

When playing outside the conference are 7-3

Iowa State most recently:
When playing in September are 4-6

When playing on grass are 3-7

After outgaining opponent are 3-7

When playing outside the conference are 5-5

A few trends to consider:
Iowa is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games

Iowa is 6-1 ATS in its last 7 games on the road

The total has gone UNDER in 10 of Iowa's last 13 games on the road

Iowa is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games when playing Iowa State

Iowa State is 5-0 ATS in its last 5 games when playing Iowa

Iowa State is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games when playing at home against Iowa

Iowa State is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Iowa

Iowa State is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games when playing Iowa

Next up:
Iowa home to Arizona, Saturday, September 19

Iowa State at Kent State, Saturday, September 19

Tennessee Titans @ Pittsburgh Steelers (-6)

Thursday, September 10, 8:30 p.m. ET

The Steelers begin their title defense with a tough opponent in last year’s AFC South champs, the Tennessee Titans. However, this year’s Titans could be primed for a step backward. The loss of Albert Haynesworth leaves a gaping hole at defensive tackle and the run-first Steelers want to re-establish their smashmouth game after struggling in that regard last year.

Tennessee’s run game is dynamite, featuring speedy Chris Johnson and powerful LenDale White, but the Steelers will stack the box against them. The Titans have very little in the passing game and the Steelers won’t respect Kerry Collins’ arm. They should stymie Tennessee, get an early lead and run the football like crazy. Bet on them to cover in your NFL picks.

Betting services recommend: Steelers -6

Detroit Lions @ New Orleans Saints (-13)

Sunday, September 13, 1:00 p.m. ET

It’s entirely possible that the retooled Lions will catch bettors off guard this season; Matt Stafford-to-Calvin Johnson could be this year’s Matt Ryan-to-Roddy White. However, the Lions won’t start their climb in NFL week 1 betting. The “D” has a long way to go and the Saints’ offense is a well-oiled machine. Drew Brees threw for 5,000 yards last season; now he adds a healthy Reggie Bush, a rededicated Jeremy Shockey and a healthy Marques Colston to the mix. Scary. The Saints should win a shootout. For the love of Pete, bet over the total on this one.

Betting services recommend: Saints -13

Washington Redskins @ New York Giants (-6.5)

Sunday, September 13, 4:15 p.m. ET

I’m calling a wakeup call for the Giants at home this week. They lost their defensive co-ordinator Steve Spagnuolo and may not have their usual ferocity; on offense, no Giant emerged as a go-to receiver for Eli Manning and Derrick Ward is gone. Can the Giants score on a Washington defense that ranked fourth in the NFL last year, then added Albert Haynesworth and a full season of DeAngelo Hall? The Redskins will surprise and beat the spread at the very least.

Betting services recommend: Redskins +6.5

The Rays will pin their hopes on the pitching of lefthander David Price in this game. Price has a 7-7 record and a 4.75 ERA this season.

Price's opponent in this one will be Chad Gaudin. The Yankees righthander has a 5.09 ERA to go along with a 4-10 record this season.

Sportsbetting.com currently have the Yankees listed as 155-moneyline favorites versus the Rays, while the game's total is sitting at 10½.

Mark Teixeira went 3-for-4 with two big flies and four runs batted in, as the Yankees drilled the Rays 11-1 in the second game of their doubleheader on Monday night.

New York won as -230 home favorites, while the game played OVER the 10-run total listed by Sportsbetting.

A.J. Burnett gave up one run over six innings to pick up the win for the Yankees, who cashed the first game of the twinbill 4-1 as -185 home favorites earlier in the day.

Evan Longoria was 2-for-3 with an RBI for Tampa Bay, while Andy Sonnanstine was rocked for eight runs over 2 2-3 innings to take the loss for the Rays.

A few trends to consider:
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Tampa Bay's last 7 games when playing NY Yankees

The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Tampa Bay's last 7 games on the road

The total has gone UNDER in 10 of Tampa Bay's last 15 games when playing on the road against NY Yankees

Tampa Bay is 2-5 SU in its last 7 games on the road

NY Yankees are 5-0 SU in their last 5 games at home

NY Yankees are 6-1 SU in their last 7 games when playing Tampa Bay

NY Yankees are 10-2 SU in their last 12 games

NY Yankees are 4-1 SU in their last 5 games when playing at home against Tampa Bay

Byrd tossed six scoreless innings in his first start of the season, and he’s got an 8-3 record in 15 career starts against the White Sox with a 4.43 ERA. Garcia gave up three runs in 6.1 innings of a 6-3 loss in Boston two weeks ago, but despite a 4.74 ERA in 14 career starts against them, he still has a 6-2 record. We’re leaning towards a shootout in this one.

MLB betting pick: Red Sox

Saturday, September 5, 4:05 PM ET – Junichi Tazawa (2-3, 6.65) vs Gavin Floyd (10-9, 3.87)

Tazawa’s last start came against the White Sox, and he was lit up for nine runs in just four innings of a 9-5 loss. Floyd has never lost against the Red Sox, going 2-0 in four outings (three starts) with an ERA of 3.00, and he has a 2.60 ERA in 12 home starts. No question who the online betting favorite will be here.

MLB betting pick: White Sox

Sunday, September 6, 2:05 PM ET – Jon Lester (11-7, 3.58) vs Jon Danks (12-8, 3.82)

Lester allowed three runs in 6.2 innings against the White Sox two weeks ago, but a no-decision left him with a 1-1 mark in three starts when facing Chicago in his career. Danks was the winning pitcher in the 9-5 victory, and this was his first career win against the Red Sox in four starts. Both have been pitching well as of late, but Lester gets the edge in these MLB picks as he’s better on the road than Danks is at home.

MLB betting pick: White Sox

Monday, September 7, 2:05 PM ET – Josh Beckett (14-5, 3.87) vs Mark Buerhle (11-7, 3.86)

In his last five outings, equaling 31.1 innings, Beckett has given up 14 homers and 26 runs. Buerhle slumped badly after his perfect game in July, but he looks to be stabilizing. Maybe a meeting with the White Sox is what the doctor ordered for Beckett, who is 4-0 in five starts against Chicago. Buerhle is 5-5 in 13 outings (12 starts) against the Red Sox, which gives the edge in your handicapping software to the Red Sox.

MLB betting pick: Red Sox

Ryan Rowland-Smith will be the starting pitcher for the Mariners on this day. Lefthander Rowland-Smith is 2-2 this season with a 3.95 ERA.

Starting this game for the Athletics will be Clayton Mortensen. The righthander has a 18.00 ERA to go along with a 0-1 record this season.

Oddsmakers currently have the Mariners listed as 115-moneyline favorites versus the Athletics, while the game's total is sitting at 8½.

The Mariners scored four runs in the first inning en route to a 7-4 series-opening victory against the A's on Thursday, as +120 underdogs. That game's 11 runs made it OVER the posted over/under (8.5).

Bill Hall belted a two-run homer to lead the way for the Mariners. Ian Snell pitched five innings for the win, allowing seven hits and three runs.

Daric Barton homered in a losing effort for the A's, who were -140 favorites. Brett Tomko surrendered eight hits and six runs over 5 2-3 innings in the loss.

A few trends to consider:
Seattle is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing Oakland

The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Seattle's last 7 games when playing Oakland

The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Seattle's last 5 games when playing on the road against Oakland

Seattle is 8-3 SU in its last 11 games

The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Oakland's last 7 games when playing Seattle

The total has gone OVER in 4 of Oakland's last 5 games

The total has gone OVER in 4 of Oakland's last 5 games at home

The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Oakland's last 5 games when playing at home against Seattle

The Bucs probably will rest most of their starters when they play the Texans in order to get a look at some of the younger players on the team.

Oddsmakers at Sportsbetting.com currently have the Buccaneers listed as 3-point favorites versus the Texans, while the game's total is sitting at 34.

Matt Schaub went 10-of-14 for 108 yards with an interception in the Texans' 17-10 loss to the Vikings on Monday night.

Minnesota cashed as 2.5-point road underdogs, while the teams played UNDER the 41-point total posted by Sportsbetting.com.

The Buccaneers were defeated 10-6 by the Dolphins in Week 3 of the preseason as a pick'em. That game's 16 points fell UNDER the posted total of 37.

Baltimore Ravens +3 to beat Atlanta Falcons

Both teams have high expectations for 2009 and both teams will likely rest their starting players. Offensively, the Ravens have a few backups who could surprise in Atlanta on Thursday. Former Heisman Trophy winner Troy Smith isn’t ready to be a starting NFL quarterback and may never be, but he’s capable enough that he could make a few plays against Atlanta backups. The Ravens are also very deep at running back, meaning third-stringer Willis McGahee could get a decent amount of work. He should have no problem running through the Falcons’ B-squad.

New Orleans Saints -3 to beat Miami Dolphins

Few offenses exploded like the Saints’ group this preseason and that includes the backups. Mark Brunell has been a throwback to his old Jacksonville glory days, picking defenses apart and hooking up with fellow second-stringer Robert Meachem for big plays. No. 3 running back Mike Bell has run with purpose all preseason and should do the same as the Saints romp at home on Thursday. I’m betting management is careful with both Reggie Bush and Pierre Thomas, so Bell could see a heavy workload.

Arizona Cardinals -3.5 to beat Denver Broncos

The nightmare just keeps getting worse for the Broncos and the latest humiliation could be a beating on their home turf in the preseason finale. Arizona’s Matt Leinart has flashed his old Heisman Trophy-winning form over the last few weeks. On Aug. 28, Leinart threw for 360 yards and three scores…in two quarters. He threw a ridiculous 38 passes in that one half of football and completed 63.2 per cent of them. It’s scary to think about what he could do this week against Denver backups as he spells Kurt Warner again. I like Arizona’s chances to win as much as I like its NFL week 1 odds to beat San Francisco.

Oddsmakers Bodog Sportsbook currently have the Falcons listed as 3-point favorites versus the Ravens, while the game's total is sitting at 35½.

The Ravens got out to an early lead and held on for a 17-13 win over the Panthers in Week 3 of the preseason, as 3-point underdogs. The 30 points went UNDER the posted total of 36.

Chris Redman threw for a touchdown and ran for another in the fourth quarter last time out as the Falcons defeated the Chargers 27-24. The Falcons failed to cover the 3-point spread, but the 51 points made it OVER the posted total of 42.5.

Team records:
Baltimore: 11-5 SU, 12-4 ATS

Atlanta: 11-5 SU, 9-7 ATS

Next up:
Baltimore home to Kansas City, Sunday, September 13

Atlanta home to Miami, Sunday, September 13