Spreadology 2011

Kentucky vs. LSU -30. Coming off a 30+ point thumping at home by the Gators it's hard to embrace the Cats from the Bluegrass. Going on the road and facing the number 1 team in the country isn't exactly the remedy for turning your season around. As a gambler however you don't really care about UK turning their season around all you have to ask yourself is LSU 30 points better than another team from the SEC. The answer is YES. LSU is 30+ points better than the Cats however the way this is shaping up I'm walking to the Wager window with my fingers holding my nose saying UK +30 please. LSU's defense is nothing short of great, don't put much stock in all those passing yards for WVU, however the offense is average at best. Jefferson will likely be worked back into the offense in some form or fashion so expect the LSU offense to rely on the running game and using a very conservative approach in preperation of the Gators coming into town the following week. Cats cover as the Tigers have their eyes on the Gators.

Panthers vs. Bears -6. It's really hard to put your faith and hard earned money behind Jay Cutler and his weekly 6 sacks. Making matters worse is betting against Cam Newton who has exceeded all expectations in his first year as a legal pay for play football player. This wager has nothing to do with Jay Cutler arm or Mike Martz's throw the ball to Matt Forte's offense, this is more of a vote for #54 and the Bears defense who over the last 5 years have been the best big play defense outside of Ed Reed and the Ravens. Urlacher and Co. are to athletic on defense to allow Newton to beat them with his legs by avoiding pressure. Look for the Bears to force multiple turnovers and win by double digits at home.

Falcons vs. Seahawks -4.5. After 3 Weeks the Falcons are 1-2 and in my opinion could be the biggest question mark among teams that made the playoffs last season. Offensively the sum has yet to equal it's parts. Jones and White could easily become the best 1-2 punch in the league but it hasn't happened yet. Gonzalez is still among the best 5-10 TE in the league. Turner can carry the rock but provide nothing in the passing game. Ryan has his moments but every time I have watched them he will have stretches during games where he will miss several throws which should have been made. What better way to get things on the right track than facing the Seagulls in the Emerald Cty. Even after last weeks win over the Cardinals, Seattle is in my mind the worst team in the NFL. Jackson is a backup thrusted into a starters role, by choice mind you. Lynch and the running game must be suffering from a playoff hangover. The WR corp is filled with Number 3 options. The defense is capable of keeping the Gulls in the game for a half but unless the offense wakes up the playoff echoes, the Falcons talent advantage is worth two scores.


Other Recommended Action: Gators +4, Northwestern +10, Steelers +4, Ravens -3


Playoff Predictions

Tigers over the Yankees.
Rays over Rangers.
Brewers over Diamondbacks.
Phillies over Cardinals.

Tigers over Rays
Phillies over Brewers

Phillies over Tigers