Well everyone it is that time of year again when the weather turns cold, leafs fall off the trees, college football is winding down the regular season, and the college basketball season is quietly getting under way. That’s right college hoops are here and time to put some focus on the hardwood. The college basketball season usually does not get the most attention until the majority of the football season is over, but for college basketball enthusiasts our time is here. Over the last 24 hours the first games of the regular season have been played as we anticipate the long exciting season so there is no better time to take a look at some of the teams to watch out for in 2009-2010 basketball season.

The Kansas Jayhawks young talented team has taken the top spot in the polls which should be a surprise considering how well the Jayhawks played in the NCAA Tournament with an inexperienced roster. However, our focus for this article is to shy away from the top 5 teams in America who are receiving all of the attention and spot the potential sleepers who will come on strong. Remember last year we nailed 3 out of the 4 NCAA Bracket winners including the big underdog in Villanova and we have a few teams on our watch that you should keep on your radar throughout the year. Take a look at a few teams that are not receiving a ton of attention, but could be shining brightly in the spotlight by season’s end.

The Mountaineers finished the regular season in 2008 at a mark of 21-10 despite being beaten up by the brutal conference play down the stretch. The fact is that West Virginia would have been a top 10 team all season long if they played anywhere outside the Big East considering how stacked the conference was last year. Coach Bob Huggins now enters his 3rd year in Morgantown and considering the difference he has made in his first two years the program is definitely headed in the right direction. Huggins now has most of his own players running his style of play which will make all the difference. The key player on the West Virginia roster will be sophomore forward Devin Ebanks. Ebanks got off to a slow start last year reaching double digits just 9 times through the first 25 games. However, the young talent really came on strong scoring at least 10 points or more in 13 of the final 15 games giving tons of promise for the 2009-2010 season. Leading scorer Da’Sean Butler will also be back after averaging 17 points per game a season ago. Butler gives the team the dangerous ability to get hot and is dangerous all over the court. If junior transfer Casey Mitchell can come in and give immediate help, the Mountaineers will have the best inside presence in the conference. Look out for freshman Kevin Jones who could make a similar big presence on the inside well with some time as well. If the Mountaineers can find one guy to become a big shooter on the outside to compliment the inside game, dare I say Final Four?

I know what most are thinking when they see Butler, but do not be fooled. The Bulldogs return everyone from the starting rotation a year ago that finished 25-4 on the season. Sure Butler plays a weak schedule, but their style of play proved to cause problems for many different teams last year. The Bulldogs took down Xavier and Davidson during the regular season and fell by a single basket to Ohio State who many had as preseason best in the Big Ten for 2008. Butler also fell just short of knocking off number 2 seed Tennessee who was the best team in the SEC keeping them out of the sweet 16. However, with everyone back things should only get better. This could be the only team in the nation that could put 5 guards on the court and get away with it. Matt Howard and Gordon Hayward will be critical youngsters for the team as veteran senior Willie Veasley will provide the leadership the team will need. How far could Butler go? Well that may be hard to tell, but they will be a team that is extremely difficult to guard and it would not be a big surprise if this shaped up to be a Cinderella Story.

The Gamecocks may be a stretch to make a ton of noise this season, but they deserve a lot more attention than they are getting. South Carolina currently is not even ranked, but they will change after a few short weeks. Senior guard Devin Downey is one of the most exciting players in the SEC to watch with tremendous hustle. Downey scored 19 points per game in 2008 and led the conference with 3 steals per game. The talented senior will be the key guy when South Carolina needs to pull out close wins as he did multiple times in 2008. However, the entire team is on the rise behind Coach Darrin Horn who is in just his 2nd year as head coach. The team may have its best years ahead, but that is not to say they can do some damage in the SEC this year. South Carolina took down Florida once and Kentucky twice in the regular season and they will match-up well with everyone again this year. The Gamecocks will need senior Dominique Archie to have an even bigger season this year especially on the boards. Archie averaged 16.5 points and 8 rebounds last season, but South Carolina really needs him to control the boards as they lack the single big man needed to be really strong. However, this is a quick team that will give everyone a hard time and we would put them ahead of some of the over hyped Big Ten teams already ranked in the top 25.

One of those Big Ten teams that are not over hyped is the Purdue Boilermakers. While Michigan State is receiving the overwhelming attention in the Big Ten and rightfully so, Purdue will have every opportunity to be the dark horse that could steal the thunder. In fact, this is most of the same team that blew out the Spartans by nearly 20 points in late February of last season. The lethal weapon of the team will be forward Robbie Hummel who averaged 13 points and 7 boards last season. Hummel will be even better this year and the Boilermakers will be a force. Purdue as a team has all the players in the right positions to expect big things. JaJuan Johnson is the big guy in the middle and senior guard Chris Kramer will need to improve a bit. However, freshman guard D.J Byrd could be the biggest difference for the Boilermakers. It is usually not a good sign to place a lot of responsibility on a freshman, but Purdue really needs a consistent hot hand from the perimeter. Bryd could do that right away depending on how quickly he adapts at the next level. However, if he can knock down a few shots each game Purdue has all the making to contend in the Big Ten.

Note: The week 11 NFL lines (sides and totals) from BetUS Sportsbook (100% signup bonus when you click here) are located at the bottom of this page if you do not wish to read our quick breakdown of the games.

It was an exciting week of football in the NFL last week. The Colts and Patriots collided in one of the most exciting games of the year with a shocking turn of events that lead the Colts to a two touchdown comeback in the final 5 minutes of the game. Throughout the entire NFL there were many more close outcomes as 8 different games were settled by a score or less, but the most interesting numbers may be 9 and 6. Soon you will see why. The home teams really shined in week 10 winning 10 of the 15 games played. Those home teams were also a solid 9-6 ATS this week against the underdogs. The home underdogs were even more impressive going 4-1 ATS in their 5 match-ups. In the favorites vs. underdog’s category the race has been pretty even all year, but the underdogs conquered for the 3rd straight week going 9-6 ATS as well. After two straight 7-6 weeks taken advantage by the under totals, scoring soared this week as the over totals stood at yet another 9-6 mark on the week. We warned last week to look out for the under totals as weather cools off and defenses become a bigger factor. However, that was not the case last week as weather did not play much of a factor throughout the league. Entering week 11 there are plenty of interesting lines to consider. Week 11 will get started when two emerging hopefuls in Miami and Carolina collide this Thursday night. The Panthers will be 3 points home favorites as they seek to get back to the .500 mark. As a whole, the home teams out favor the away teams at yet another 9-6 mark for week 11. As you can see the numbers 9 and 6 seem to be a reoccurring theme. In fact there are 6 different teams that will be favored by 9 points or more as well this week which is the most lop sided the betting lines have been in many weeks. One of the key week 11 NFL lines that jump out is the Baltimore Ravens who are the slightest of favorites when they host the undefeated Indianapolis Colts. The Colts survived last week thanks to Patriots Coach Bill Belichick’s own personal mistake to go for it on 4th down and 2 from the Patriots own 28 yard line with about 2 minutes to go in the game. The Colts will now be slight underdogs for the first time this season as they hope to avoid any letdown performances. Surely plenty of action will be on that game, but check out all the other games that deserve some attention and the complete list of week eleven NFL lines from BetUS Sportsbook below.

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2009 NFL Football Week 11 Lines From BetUS (as of 11/17 @ 11:30 pm ET):
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Note: The week ten NFL lines (sides & totals) from BetUS Sportsbook (Huge 100% Bonus When You click here To Join) are posted at the bottom of this post if you do not wish to read our week 10 NFL lines breakdown.

If you happened to place a few wagers on NFL Football last week, then hopefully your action sided with the underdogs. Week 10 was perhaps the biggest week for the underdogs this season as they were 10-3 ATS this week. It was perhaps one of the biggest lop sided weeks for the favorites vs. underdogs just proving that betting on favorites is not always best. The home teams also battled back in a big way this week against the books. Home teams were 9-4 ATS against the road teams. The home teams had big expectations entering week 9 as 10 of 13 teams were favored from teams at home. Those teams performed fairly well going 8-4 straight up, but as stated before the underdogs covered the points in most of those events. The under totals had the slight edge yet again this week going 7-6 for the second straight week. We mentioned last week the under totals were something to keep an eye on as the season progresses and that will be another interesting factor to keep on your radar for week 10. Looking at the week 10 NFL lines, there are some more interesting trends of the betting lines that can not go unnoticed. One common theme we have noticed in the week 10 NFL lines is the large number of home favorites, where home teams are favored in 10 of the listed 15 games. The home teams were heavy favorites last week despite getting dominated against the spread, but the bookies show liking to the home teams again. One thing that is expected is close games in week 10. There are 6 different match-ups with lines holding at a field goal or less. Also scoring is expected to be down this week as there is not one single game over the 50 point total as the over/under totals have steadily decreased in past weeks as a whole. Possibly the most interesting game of the week is the undefeated Indianapolis Colts who will host the New England Patriots for AFC supremacy on Sunday night. The Colts are 3 point favorites against their bitter rivals and that will be a game that deserves attention for sure as both appear to have Super Bowl potential. For the rest of the games, be sure to check out week 10 NFL spreads from BetUS Sportsbook below.

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2009 NFL Football Week Ten Lines From BetUS (as of 11/11 @ 11:00 pm ET):
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It has been a few weeks since we have broken down the best college football players in the nation to provide the candidates with the best chances of winning the 2009 Heisman Trophy watch. However, even with about 75 percent of the season over the Heisman Trophy race is still up for grabs. One thing for certain is there are plenty of quarterbacks in the mix as expected for the 2009 season. However, there are some unfamiliar faces shakings things up. The only man that could steal the hardware from the quarterbacks this season appears to be Alabama running back Mark Ingram who has exploded onto the scene in the SEC this season. However, there is still a lot of football to be played and this year’s race could likely come down to the wire. Take a look as we break down the top 5 Heisman Trophy candidates after week 10 of the college football season.

Current Odds To Win The Heisman Are From Sportsbook.com (as of 11/10/09):
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• Case Keenum  7/1    
• Colt McCoy  2/1    
• Jacquizz Rodgers  15/1    
• Jimmy Clausen  4/1    
• Kellen Moore  10/1    
• Mark Ingram  1/1    
• Tim Tebow  3/1

#5. QB Colt McCoy (Texas Longhorns)
Colt McCoy Current Odds To Win The Heisman Trophy: +200

I’m sure there are many fans in the state of Texas mad about ranking McCoy number 5 on the list. However, McCoy is not having the huge season that Longhorn fans might have anticipated. There is no doubt that Texas is National Championship contenders and they will likely play the winner of the SEC Championship Game for the chance at the title which will help McCoy’s chances. However, McCoy has not been that impressive this season. Sure, the completion percentage is outstanding at 72% on the season, but the Texas senior quarterback has also thrown 9 picks this season with his 17 touchdowns. McCoy has actually thrown at least 1 pick in every game outside of the Longhorns blowout victory over Oklahoma State. In Texas two closest games this season against Oklahoma and Texas Tech, McCoy has thrown for just under 200 yards per game with 2 touchdowns and 3 interceptions. Considering how bad the Big 12 is down this season after all the expectations, those numbers are much less impressive. However, the Longhorns chance at a National Championship still may land him another Heisman Trophy Finalist recognition.

#4. QB Case Keenum (Houston Cougars)
Case Keenum Current Odds To Win The Heisman Trophy: +700

Most people will not give Case Keenum much respect since he resides out of the defenseless Conference USA. However, Keenum’s numbers can not be ignored and there is not many quarterbacks out there who have ever had the chance to post back to back 5,000 yard campaigns. Even more impressive is that Keenum leads the nation with 3,815 passing yards and that is nearly a 1,000 yards more than the next closest contender Tyler Sheehan. On the season, Keenum has thrown for 3,815 yards while completing 71% for 25 touchdowns and only 5 picks. In fact, the Cougars star has thrown for more than 500 passing yards in two straight contests and leads the nation’s top ranked scoring offense at 42 points per game. If only the Cougars were BCS type contenders, Keenum would be getting much more respect.

#3. QB Tim Tebow (Florida Gators)
Tim Tebow Current Odds To Win The Heisman Trophy: +300

Another one of the leading preseason candidates to win the Heisman Trophy is the Gators famed QB Tim Tebow who won the Heisman Trophy in his sophomore season. However, Tebow has not had the huge numbers the Gators offense may have expected as well. In fact, the Gators offense is not near as explosive all together this season. Tebow has just 11 passing touchdowns on the season with 4 interceptions for 1,531 yards. Tebow has not thrown for the type of yards a Heisman Trophy candidate would normally post. However, his legs have kept him in the race. Tebow has posted 9 additional touchdowns on the ground for just less than 600 yards. The Gators quarterback just recently broke all-time great Herschel Walker’s SEC touchdown record and that accomplishment in itself should rank right up there with his Heisman Trophy. The Gators appear to be the team to beat as they attempt to defend their National Championship and 3rd in the last 4 years. While Tebow is completely everything to the team, he may not have the numbers to grab his 2nd trophy. However, there is still a few opportunities that could change those perceptions.

#2. QB Jimmy Clausen (Notre Dame Fighting Irish)
Jimmy Clausen Current Odds To Win The Heisman Trophy: +400 

Perhaps this year we finally learned why Jimmy Clausen was at one time considered the most sought after recruit in college football history. Clausen has finally delivered in big ways for the Fighting Irish offense throwing for 2,770 yards this season. Clausen actually has an outside chance to reach the 4,000 yard plateau if he can string together a couple of 400 yard performances as he has already done this season. Clausen has completed 68% passing with 20 touchdowns and only 3 interceptions. The big thing that impresses many about Clausen is his ability to play big in the big games. If you take the Fighting Irish’s two biggest games of the season which both resulted in close disappointing losses to Michigan and USC, Clausen threw for just less than 300 yards per game with 5 touchdowns and 0 picks. The Fighting Irish junior quarterback even put up a career high 452 yards in their most recent loss last week to Army simply proving yet again a player who is Heisman worthy, but just not on the team that will help him win the hardware.

#1. RB Mark Ingram (Alabama Crimson Tide)
Mark Ingram Current Odds To Win The Heisman Trophy: +100

Ask anyone in Tuscaloosa, Alabama who their pick for the Heisman Trophy is and they will tell you running back Mark Ingram. Even outside the state of Alabama, Ingram may be the most widely accepted front runner for the Heisman. He has completely dominated on the ground for the Crimson Tide this year and is a huge reason Alabama has a chance at their 2nd straight perfect regular season. Ingram has really emerged in the latter part of the season racking up 801 yards in the last 5 games and all of those yards have been against SEC defenses. Having a player put up those kind of numbers against not only good, but some very good defenses is more than impressive. Ingram may only have 8 scores on the year, but he is carrying a stout 6.6 yards per carry ratio and has produced the most in the biggest games. In some of the Crimson Tide’s most important games featuring teams like: Virginia Tech, South Carolina, Tennessee and LSU (all defenses ranking in top 25) Ingram has averaged 160 yards per game which is simply ridiculous. There is no player in college football more worthy of this year’s Heisman Trophy than sophomore running back out of Alabama in Mark Ingram. Not only should he be the Heisman Trophy Winner, but he may be the force that brings the National Championship back to Tuscaloosa.

2009-10 NBA Finals Odds, Preview & Predictions

Complete Listing of 2010 NBA Finals Odds Can Be Found At The Bottom of this Post

Last year marked the Los Angeles Lakers return to glory as they recorded their 15th NBA Championship in franchise history just two behind the all-time leading Boston Celtics at 17 in total. The Championship marked Kobe Bryant’s 4th title in his career and for Coach Phil Jackson a record 10th championship. However despite the Lakers dominance especially over the Western Conference in recent years, it was their first championship in 7 years despite 2 failed NBA Finals trips during that period. Heading into 2010, the Lakers are once again favorites to take on the hardware at +180 favorites meaning Phil Jackson will have to start finding additional hands to carry those rings. However, as the NBA proved last year the competition is fierce and there will be many fighting for similar claims including Lebron James who is in search for his first NBA Championship with the Cleveland Cavaliers who are receiving +450 odds to win it all. Take a look as we list he odds to win the 2009 NBA Fianls, breakdown each Conference and what to expect from the NBA in 2010, and ultimately giving a prediction for this year’s 2010 NBA Championship.

2009-10 Eastern Conference Preview:

Last year in the Eastern Conference the “Big 3” dominated the conference consistently battling for the best overall record in the league. Those teams were the Boston Celtics, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Orlando Magic who ended up representing the Eastern Conference in the Finals. Orlando is receiving +700 odds for 2010, but they lost Hedo Turkoglu to free agency who landed with the Toronto Raptors. Orlando will still be a force just from the presence of Dwight Howard. However, shooting guard J.J Redick should be able to provide some more help this season and the Magic also landed a proven veteran in Vince Carter. There is no reason not to expect the Magic to be a force this year as Turkoglu really did not do much during the regular season. Orlando will still be playing catch-up early in the season, but they could be a force by playoff time.

The Cavaliers added Shaquille O’Neal to the roster to help down low. O’Neal has not produced a ton of points over the past few seasons, but he could definitely contribute a lot to the defensive efforts from Cleveland. The Cavaliers were among the best defensive teams in the league last year holding opponents to just 90.4 points per game and those numbers may get even better. Of course James will be Lebron like so there is not much worry with him. James averaged just less than 30 points per game last year 2nd best in the NBA behind Dwyane Wade. The player that may make the biggest difference for Cleveland is Mo Williams. Shaq gives the presence you need down low that teams will respect, and Lebron will draw all the attention. If Williams can be the shooter they think he can be, then the Cavaliers may very well have their shot at glory this season.

The last of the “Big 3” is the Boston Celtics who are receiving solid +300 odds to win the NBA Title. There was not a ton of change in Boston outside of the signing of Rasheed Wallace. Wallace spent the last 5 years in Detroit, but will find a place in the starting rotation for the Celtics. The problem Boston had last season is that injuries plagued the team down the stretch. Garnett missed a lot of the latter part of the season and guys were consistently banged up. If not for countless Paul Pierce clutch shots, the Celtics may not have made it out of the opening round of the playoffs last year. Boston will once again own the most talented lineup in the NBA as they can get huge numbers from any of their starters. The key will be staying together and staying healthy.

A few other teams that could get into the mix this season are the Atlanta Hawks and the Chicago Bulls. It has been some time since we seen the Bulls get on a level where they could be possible contenders for a championship. While that still may be a few years down the road, Chicago could make similar noise as they did in their opening round overtime thrilling playoff match-up with the Celtics. Chicago signed 2009 Rookie of the Year Derrick Rose to an extension and he should have a future in the windy city. The Bulls have the ability to contend on any given night, but possibly not the depth to contend in the long run. All in all, the Bulls are about 1 superstar away from being back in the NBA Finals contender category.

The Hawks signed rookie Jeff Teague out of Wake Forest who showed countless signs of brilliance in the college ranks. Teague should adapt well in Atlanta since they like to run a fast paced offense. Atlanta also acquired Jamal Crawford from the Knicks. Crawford averaged 20 points per contest last year and he should help make Atlanta even tougher on a nightly basis. The Hawks are sizeable +4000 underdogs, but are a team to keep on the radar with their style of play.

2009-10 Western Conference Preview:

The Lakers really controlled the West last season with just less than an .80 winning percentage. The only team that showed signs that they could slow the Lakers where the Denver Nuggets who got extremely hot on some late season runs. However, the Nuggets still dropped 3 of 4 regular season contest to the Lakers. Los Angeles also ended up taking Denver out in the Conference Finals going 4-2. In the Southwest division, things were wide open throughout the year. San Antonio ended up on the top spot and showed signs of late season magic, but they were destroyed by Dallas 4 games to 1 in the playoffs. In all reality this may be another year of wide open basketball in the Western Conference, but all will still be chasing the Lakers.

The Dallas Mavericks came on late in the year and also in the playoffs last year mainly behind Dirk Nowitzki. The Mavericks added some depth to the roster this season in Drew Gooden and Shawn Marion. Marion should help scoring efforts and Gooden with time will develop into a nice presence as well. Josh Howard battled injuries all last season and it is imperative that he stay healthy in terms of the Mavericks success. Dallas has the scorer’s to contend, but may still lack the down low presence needed. Erick Dampier just is not the big man in the middle you find on most championship teams.

The other contender out of the Southwest will be none other than the San Antonio Spurs. The Spurs should take battle with Dallas in the southwest as Houston will likely suffer with the season long absence of Yao Ming whose career may be in jeopardy after foot surgery. However, the Spurs made some moves in the right direction. After campaigning for senior citizens benefits last year, the Spurs added youth with rookie DeJuan Blair and also added Richard Jefferson. San Antonio should be the most experience team in the league and Blair may give more help in his rookie campaign than most would expect. The Spurs should be able to contend, but we just not sold they have what it takes to return to the Finals spotlight.

Outside of the might Southwest, the Denver Nuggets have to be the team that challenges the Lakers for the top spot. Last year’s addition of Chauncey Billups proved to be astronomical for the team’s success. Of course Carmelo Anthony is the superstar, but Billups is a star as well and really gets the team to play together. If J.R Smith can have a similar season to 2009 much less improve, the Nuggets will be even better in 2010. Denver has the talent in the starting lineup to content with anyone, but this is another team that can not afford any injuries. If they stay healthy, they have every opportunity to take down the West. Denver is +1500 underdogs which is a line that may deserve a lot of attention.

The Lakers lost Trevor Ariza, but just when you think Los Angeles takes a step back they sign Ron Artest to the lineup. If you hated the Lakers before, you will hate them even more with Artest now on the roster. Like it or not, it should make Los Angeles even stronger. Kobe Bryant may just be the best player in the league and Pau Gasol has proved he is a good match with Bryant. The scary thing about this team is center Andrew Bynum is just going to get better and better. Hopefully for the rest of the league’s sake, Bynum does not have any huge breakout this season. If so call it checkmate for the defending Champions to repeat.

One final team to keep your eye on in the west includes first and foremost the Portland Trail Blazers. Portland has found their star in Brandon Roy and LaMarcus Aldridge is an equally effective helping hand. However, Portland strengthened their lineup over the off season with the additions of Andre Miller and Juwan Howard. Miller should definitely be able to help efforts and depth in the backcourt. Howard is a veteran whose performance will likely wane, but he can still provide some quality minutes. The Trail Blazers really need Greg Oden to step up and be the big inside threat. Oden is a rebounding machine, but has had trouble with injuries as well as foul trouble. If he stays healthy and stays on the court, good things will come for Portland who is receiving +1500 odds.

2009-10 NBA Finals Prediction:

If the Boston Celtics can stay healthy, their lineup is ridiculously talented. The Cavaliers may be even better this season, but the Celtics will be as well. Boston will take down the Eastern Conference and meet up with the Lakers who will again edge out Denver in the Western Conference. However the Lakers will not defend their title, as 2008 repeats itself and the Celtics will beat the Lakers 4-2 while taking home the hardware for the 18th time.

2010 NBA Finals Odds From JustBet Sportsbook (as of 11/5/2009):
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Atlanta Hawks - 40 to 1
Boston Celtics – 3 to 1
Charlotte Bobcats – 100 to 1
Chicago Bulls – 60 to 1
Cleveland Cavaliers – 9 to 2
Dallas Mavericks – 30 to 1
Denver Nuggets – 15 to 1
Detroit Pistons – 75 to 1
Golden State Warriors – 100 to 1
Houston Rockets – 50 to 1
Indiana Pacers – 100 to 1
Los Angeles Clippers – 100 to 1
Los Angeles Lakers – 7 to 4
Memphis Grizzlies – 100 to 1
Miami Heat – 40 to 1
Milwaukee Bucks – 100 to 1
Minnesota Timberwolves – 100 to 1
New Jersey Nets – 100 to 1
New Orleans Hornes – 50 to 1
New York Knicks – 100 to 1
Oklahoma City Thunder – 100 to 1
Orlando Magic – 7 to 1
Philadelphia 76ers – 75 to 1
Phoenix Suns – 70 to 1
Portland Blazers – 15 to 1
Sacramento Kings – 10 to 1
San Antonio Spurs – 7 to 1
Toronto Raptors – 100 to 1
Utah Jazz – 30 to 1
Washington Wizards – 50 to 1

Note: Current week 9 NFL lines (sides and totals) from BetUS Sportsbook (100% signup bonus when you click here) are available at the very end of this article if you aren’t interested in reading our breakdown of the week nine NFL spreads.

The underdogs attempted to battle back in week 8, but still fell one game short as the favorites held the edge for yet another week at 6-5 ATS over the underdog teams. Of course that is not including the Giants/Eagles game that was listed as a “Pick Em” early in the week. The Eagles actually blew out the Giants as a slight favorite at kickoff that would have increased that lead to 7-5. Last week we warned that there were a high volume of games with heavy favorites. However, out of 5 games with double digit favorites only the Bears satisfied the bookmakers as the underdogs took a strong 4-1 ATS advantage as double digit underdogs dogs. Also, there were a ton of home team favorites last week as well. The Buffalo Bills were the only home underdog last week out of all week 8 match-ups. Those home teams held a 7-5 SU advantage which got things back to an equilibrium point after the road team’s conquered week 7. The unders took back control this week with a 7-6 advantage over the overs bettors. The under total may be something to keep an eye on as the temperatures continue to drop and defenses begin to become a bigger importance each week. Heading into and looking at the week 9 NFL spreads, the home teams will have similar expectations to dominate again. The home guys are favored in 10 of the 13 match-ups this weekend and 4 of the 5 double digit favorites are also home teams. In reference to the expected increase in defense mentioned before, there is just one total for this weekend’s NFL lines that is listed above the 50 point mark; which means less scoring will be expected as a whole. Some interesting games to keep on the radar include the Dallas Cowboys and Philadelphia Eagles who will be battling for control of the NFC East. The Eagles despite a rocky start this season are 3 point favorites over the Cowboys probably as a result from their huge blowout over the Giants last week. The emerging Miami Dolphins will also try to take down the mighty New England Patriots this weekend. The Patriots are showing 10 ½ point favorites, but that could be a more interesting game than most expect. Denver and Pittsburgh will take the big stage this Monday night in a battle of AFC supremacy. The Broncos suffered their first loss of the season last week, but will actually be slight favorites on Monday Night Football against the defending Super Bowl Champions. Get an early look at all of the current week 9 NFL lines including all sides and totals from BetUS Sportsbook down below.

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2009 NFL Football Week Nine Lines From BetUS (as of 10/28 @ 4:00 pm ET):
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NFL/College Football News Clippings Cycle:

• NY.com; Ahmad Bradshaw’s MRI Reveals Cracked Bone in Foot
• ESPN.com; SEC To Fine / Suspend Coaches For Criticizing Refs
• Fox Sports; Tennessee Titans Will Give Vince Young Another Shot
• KansasCity.com; Chiefs And Larry Johnson Working On Settlement
• Husker Extra; Pelini Not Ready To Name A Starting Quarterback
• St. Louis Today; Rams Wide Receiver Eager To Show He Can Play
• NBC Pro Football Talk; Bart Scott Wants To Hurt Chad Henne
• The 506; FOX’s NFL Regional Early Game Listings – Late Game Listings
• The 506; CBS’s Sunday NFL Regional Game Listings
• Contra Costa Times; Raiders Teammates Back Russell
• Times Daily; Bowden Rumors Abound

Blogisphere & Football Opinion/Entertainment Cycle:

• Bankroll Sports; Week 8 NFL Power Ratings
• BetUS Locker Room; SEC Power Poll Rankings For Week 9
• BetUS Locker Room; College Football Games of the Week
• Sparty & Friends; Top 10 NFL Players of the Past 30 Years
• Rumors & Rants; Lovie Smith Is Now Officially On The Hot Seat
• Fanhouse; Tatum Bell Thinks His USFL Team Would Beat Tampa Bay
• Sports Illustrated; 49ers Give Smih Chance – Will They Use Him Correctly?
• NFL Spin Zone; Blown Call May Have Saved The Saints Perfect Record
• Club Seat; Can Someone Please Find Donovan McNabb A Rulebook
• Sports Chump; What to Watch in This Weekend’s Football Action
• Fanhouse; Week 8 NFL Power Ratings

Amatuer Handicappers & Bloggers Free Football Picks:

• Free Week 8 NFL Picks From; The Chickenhawk
• Free Week 8 NFL Picks From; Masterballer of FF Baller
• Free Pac 10 Football Picks From; Ted Miller of ESPN.com
• Week 8 NFL Pick Em’ Picks From; Derek Lofland of FF Maniax
• Free College Football Picks From; Mike of Borderline Fantastic
• Free Week 8 NFL Picks From; The Drunk Handicapper & BetUS
• Free Week 8 NFL Picks From; Chris Cipriano of Cippin on Sports
• Free Week 8 NFL Picks From; Matt Bowen of National Football Post
• Week 8 NFL Survivor Picks From; Scott Simon of Sports Judge Blog

Week 8 NFL Fantasy Football Cycle:

• Sharapova’s Thigh; Week 8 Fantasy Football Roundup
• Camel Clutch Blog; Week 8 Start ‘Em / Sit ‘Em
• ESPN.com; Matthew Berry’s Week 8 Engineered To Win (Video)
• Top Fantasy Football; Week 8 Quarterbacks Start ‘Em / Sit ‘Em
• Midwest Sports Fans; NFL Injury Updates For Week 8
• Hawk Fantasy Sports; Week 8 Waiver Wire Pickups
• Pro Football Weekly; Ten Most Intriguing Players Of Week 8
• Razzball; Game Day Theory Sleeper Math

Note: The week 8 NFL lines (sides and totals) from BetUS Sportsbook (100% signup bonus when you click here) are located at the bottom of this post if you do not wish to read our breakdown of the lines.

Last week should have been a profitable week for the NFL betting public as it was a big week for the favorites in week 7. The favorites were a solid 9-3-1 ATS over underdog teams as a few of the high power offenses beat up on some of the weaker teams. Over the course of the weekend the highly favored teams by 7 points or more cashed in big with a mark of 4-1 ATS. The away teams last weekend proved that home field may not be much of advantage after all going 8-5 against the home teams. Also, the over total finally broke through with a 7-5-1 mark after a few weeks of splits. However, this is the time of the year when the over usually has the edge before defenses take control during the latter of the season. As we look over the opening week 8 NFL lines, there are a few interesting game that jump out. If you like betting on home teams, the week 8 spreads may be the best week for your taste; considering there is only 1 away team favored this week compared to 11 home favorites. Another interesting fact that is obvious is the number of overwhelming favorites from this week’s NFL spreads. The week 8 NFL lines contain five games with favorites of 10 point or more and that total could easily reach to 6 if the Dallas line moves up another ½ point as they are 9½ point favorites over Seattle. A few of the close week eight lines include the undefeated Broncos who will are 3 point underdogs in Baltimore, Houston over Buffalo, Miami over New York Jets, and Jacksonville over Tennessee are all around field goal favorites. Another 3 point favorite is the much anticipated rematch between Minnesota at Green Bay. Brett Favre got the win over his former team of 16 years earlier this season, but they will be 3 point underdogs this weekend. Another close match-up to keep on your radar includes the Giants (5-2) at the Eagles (4-2) for claims to top the NFC East. The Eagles are favored by just a single point, but the game will likely be even by game time. Be sure to catch all of week 8 NFL lines including sides and totals from BetUS Sportsbook below.

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2009 NFL Football Week 8 Lines From BetUS (as of 10/28 @ 4:00 pm ET):
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Note: The week seven NFL lines (sides and totals) from BetUS Sportsbook (100% signup bonus when you click here) are located at the bottom of this page if you do not wish to read our rundown of the games.

Last week was not a great week for the football betting public and bookies did some damage in week 6. As we projected, the oddsmakers did their job in getting the underdogs to catch up with the favorites last week. Underdogs went a combined 9-5 in week 6 and favorites of 7 points or more went just 2-4 on Sunday. The two homedogs on the board split (1-1) and the biggest homedog in Oakland +14 vs. Philly won easily. Over/Unders split once again going 7-7 as that has pretty much been the trend all season. Of the week 7 NFL spreads, there are 5 favorites of 7 points or more and two favorites of 10 points. If you enjoy betting on homedogs then you will very much like the week 7 NFL spreads as 7 of the 11 opening lines are home underdogs. There are some interesting matchups including; the Chicago Bears who are getting 1½ points in Cincinnati vs. the Bengals and the (6-0) Minnesota Vikings heading to Pittsburgh as 4 point underdogs vs. the (4-2) Steelers. All of the totals are in the 40’s except for just two games (Jets @ Raiders & Eagles @ Redskins). The (3-2) Eagles are giving 7 points on the road to the (2-4) Washington Redskins in the week 7 Monday Night Football matchup. You can see all the week 7 NFL lines including sides and totals from BetUS Sportsbook below.

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2009 NFL Football Week 7 Lines From BetUS (as of 10/20 @ 11:00 pm ET):
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Current BCS Standings (as of October 25, 2009):

2009 BCS Predictions (as of October 20, 2009):

Well let the controversy begin or at least that is what the BCS Standing major goal is to accomplish right? In case you missed it, the first BCS Standings were released this week for college football. Will this finally be the year we have such a catastrophe in the BCS Polls that it finally causes a playoff to be adopted in college football? We think it could be for a number of reasons. Most importantly is that one of the non major conference teams will be undefeated and when say non major we mean outside the SEC and Big 12. Boise State, Cincinnati, and TCU all have really good chances to end the season undefeated. Of course if any team ends the year undefeated they have the right to make their claim for a National Title especially after Utah thumped Alabama in the Sugar Bowl last year. All of this expectations and predictions may be a little premature. However rest assured in early December after all the Conference Title games have been played, the BCS will implode and cause some major disappointments for college football enthusiasts. Check out these big BCS Standings predictions.

BCS Standing Prediction #5 – TCU and Iowa will fade.

TCU is catching a lot of attention as there is a lot of people who think they can run the table. The Horned Frogs have a very talented defense that will keep them in every game they play this season. However, they have some big games left on the schedule against BYU and Utah. The TCU offense will have to step up if they are to run the table and quite honestly they do not have the firepower to keep up with those explosive scoring teams. TCU may get a win out of those two games, but they will lose at least one knocking their chances for a BCS Bowl out of the picture. Iowa is in a similar boat as well. The Hawkeyes keep winning in less than convincing fashion, but their momentum is running on thin ice. The Iowa offense is not moving the ball very well and they rank outside the top 75 in total offense with just 351 yards per game. In fact the offense has just produced 24 points per game this season as well. While the Big Ten teams are not known for huge offensive numbers, they are known for strong defenses. The Hawkeyes offense will be stopped in their tracks and it could be as early as this weekend on the road at Michigan State. If that does not knock them off track, the Buckeyes will get their chance to do the deed at the Horseshoe.

BCS Standings Prediction #4 – The SEC will sport two BCS Bowl Berths

Well this is a pretty easy prediction. Florida ranks number 1 in the standings and Alabama holds down the number 2 spot. In fact they are exactly vice versa in the AP Polls. It is a fair argument to say they are the best two teams in the country and are on a huge collision course for the Georgia Dome that will host the SEC Championship game. There is not any team left on either schedule that poses any big threats. Of course Florida has looked vulnerable while the Tide has rolled. Even if one falls to an upset they will meet in the SEC Championship. The winner will be fighting for the SEC’s 4th straight National Championship and the loser will still earn an at large berth in one of the other 4 BCS Bowl Games.

BCS Standings Prediction #3 – No. 20 Pittsburgh will earn a BCS Bowl Berth

The Pittsburgh Panthers may be well down the BCS Standings at this point in the season, but they will make a climb to the top. Despite being a fairly average team, the Panthers conference schedule sets up beautifully for them to win the Big East. Pittsburgh already suffered a loss to North Carolina State this year and will likely suffer another out of conference defeat when the Fighting Irish come to town in a few weeks. However, those losses will keep the in conference games in perspective and not allow any upsets. West Virginia and South Florida will both have a good chance to take down Pittsburgh, but the Panthers will have just one Big East loss when they host Cincinnati in their final game of the year. QB Bill Stull and freshman running sensation Dion Lewis provides Pittsburgh with plenty of weapons to take on Cincinnati. Plus Cincinnati star QB Tony Pike is questionable for his arm to stay healthy. Pittsburgh may have anywhere from an 8-3 to 9-2 record when they host the Bearcats in the season finale. However, there will only be one conference loss giving the Panthers the opportunity to win the Big East at home and they will get the job done.

BCS Standing Predictions #2 – USC quest for 5th straight Rose Bowl will end

USC has been to the Rose Bowl the last 4 straight season and 5 of the last 6 years as well. The Trojans have won 7 straight Pac-10 titles and have reached and has reached a BCS Bowl Game in every year of that impressive stretch as well. However, we are sticking to our early season prediction that USC will not win the Pac-10 title this season. The Trojans got a big win over California, but the Golden Bears are not the team we thought they would be. However, the Oregon Ducks will play the spoiler role. Oregon is still the only team left in the Pac-10 that has not suffered a conference loss and they control their own destiny in terms of a BCS Bowl Game. The Ducks also hold a big advantage as they will get USC at home on October 31st. That will be a huge game for both sides and we still like Oregon to pull out the victory. However even if USC wins and they experience another slip up as they are accustomed to experiencing, Oregon will still make it to the Rose Bowl ending the Trojans impressive run.

BCS Standings Prediction #1 – Boise State will shake up everything

If the other BCS Busters can not get the job done, the Boise State Broncos should throw a wrench into everything this year. Boise State faced one of their biggest remaining challenges towards perfection this past week with a 28-21 victory over Tulsa. Out of the remaining 7 games on the schedule, only Idaho owns a winning record. However, the Broncos are not likely to give into the upset bug like so many others will experience during the latter part of the year. QB Kellen Moore has the offense under control with 16 touchdowns to only 2 picks this season along with 1,404 yards. Hawaii and Nevada are potential teams that could pull of the upset along with Idaho. However, it does not seem things will work out so perfectly for the BCS as it has in year’s past. The Broncos offense will run the table against the weak pass defenses of the WAC and they will be undefeated when the BCS puts a 1 or maybe even a 2 loss team in the BCS Championship game instead.

BCS National Championship Odds From BetUS (as of October 20, 2009):
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College Football action is just starting to enter the heart of conference play. This is normally the time of year when you really start to find out which teams are for real when the competition picks up on a weekly basis. Top teams are sure to fade and new faces are to emerge. Nearly everyone has Florida meeting up with Texas in the National Championship, but there is so much football left to play that nothing is certain especially since both teams are coming off rather sluggish performances. Judging by the amount of upsets this year, then how could you even think about a National Championship match-up just halfway through the year. The major conference teams are very vulnerable this time of year because they are facing top teams each and every week. We are not going to try and predict the National Championship match-up because it just seems to far fetch to think anything is a guarantee as crazy as college football turns out. However, we have taken the time to break down a few teams that will see BCS Bowls this season. Breaking down the way some of these talented teams are playing and their remaining schedules, we bring to you the Top 5 BCS Bowl teams for 2010.

#1. Florida Gators (5-0)

The Gators may not be the best team in the country, but who is going to beat them for the rest of the year? Florida captured its biggest win of the season in a 13-3 defensive battle last week over LSU. The Gators remaining schedule is very weak and they play just two teams with a winning record and only South Carolina is ranked in the top 25. The only logical room for an upset here outside of South Carolina, is a loss in the SEC Championship. If that happens, the Gators still got to a BCS Bowl even though it would not be the National Championship Game. The Gators defense is so good that an upset becomes highly unlikely until they square off in the SEC Championship. The Gators offense has not racked up the points as expected this year which could hold them back from repeating as National Champions. However, they are still 100% locks for a BCS Bowl Game.

#2. Alabama Crimson Tide (6-0)

The Crimson Tide is in an extremely similar situation in the SEC West. Alabama is not only perhaps playing better than anyone in the country, but have a manageable schedule from here out. Alabama has a solid test against South Carolina this week and LSU two weeks following. If they can win both those two games they will obviously have a perfect regular season record for the 2nd straight year in a row. Even if they lose one game they can still get to the SEC Championship with another LSU loss. In that scenario, the Crimson Tide still make a BCS Bowl even if they lose to Florida and that may be the worse case scenario for Alabama. The Crimson Tide would have a great chance at beating Florida if they were to play right now. The Alabama offensive and defensive lines are as big and strong as an NFL team. They have dominated on both sides of the ball and Nick Saban has the Tide rolling once again. All scenarios point to another BCS Bowl Game as well for the beast of the west in the SEC.

#3. Virginia Tech Hokies (5-1)

The Hokies were a bit unlucky to get a chance at Alabama in their opener this year, because their offense just was not clicking at the start of the season. However, quarterback Tyrod Taylor is starting to make a lot more plays with his arm and that is making the entire offense very dangerous. Freshman Ryan Williams is one of the best young guys in the nation. The Hokies running back has rushed for 734 yards and 9 scores this season to keep the running game going after losing star back Darren Evans before the season even started. The Hokies defense is strong as always, but their offense has become explosive. If Taylor continues to throw the ball well, Virginia Tech is the most dangerous one loss team in the country. The Hokies have more quality wins than any team in the Top 10 and they played Alabama tough when they were not even playing well. The Hokies square off with Georgia Tech this week and a win would all but guarantee a trip to the ACC Championship. However, more importantly there is not any other team in the ACC that can play with the Hokies if they keep pace meaning an automatic BCS Bowl Berth for the conference champions.

#4. Texas Longhorns (5-0)

The Longhorns appear to be on the path to fight for a National Championship and a Big 12 Title as well. However, both of those hopes face a huge test this Saturday when they take on rival Oklahoma. A loss would actually give the Sooners the lead in the Big 12 South considering both of Oklahoma’s losses have been outside the conference. Still the Longhorns are favorites to win the game and if they can edge out the Sooners, they will be in a BCS Bowl Game. The Longhorns have a much more difficult schedule than some of the other teams on our list with meetings with Oklahoma State and Kansas remaining. All Texas really has to do is beat Oklahoma this weekend to control their own destiny. A win over the Sooners means they can still suffer a loss and make the trip to the Big 12 Championship. It’s hard to think Kansas or Nebraska could beat Texas in the Big 12 Title Game and that gives the Sooners a ticket to a BCS Bowl despite what happens the rest of the year.

#5. Cincinnati Bearcats (5-0)

The Bearcats may be the most unlikely of BCS Bowl contenders heading into the season, but they have an offense that can contend with anyone in the nation. QB Tony Pike is receiving Heisman type attention after a wonderful start completing 67% for 1,493 yards, 13 touchdowns, and just 3 interceptions. The offense is among the best in the country averaging the 42 points per game. The Bearcats appear to have too much firepower which will make it tough for teams like South Florida and Pittsburgh to steal the conference crown away. Cincinnati goes on the road tonight in one of their biggest games of the season against South Florida and a win would make the BCS Bowl picture an instant reality. Pittsburgh has become a factor in the conference, but they don’t seem to have the talent to keep it together for another half of the season considering they really struggled last week against Connecticut. Cincinnati has all the opportunities to cash in here and make their way to one of the big bowls. However, a win tomorrow night would give the Bearcats a very considerable chance to win out. If that happens the BCS Standings will then again be a big factor as always in deciding who is worthy of competing for the National Championship. Would it let the Bearcats out of the Big East into the big game?