Sports BettingThe
Theteams have qualified, the venues are complete and the stage is set at Pinnacle Sportsbook for the biggest football party in history, the 2006 FIFA World Cup! Highly profitable for informed players everywhere, Germany 2006 will see 32 nations compete for football’s biggest prize with the first match played on June 9th, when hosts Germany face Costa Rica. In major soccer events like Germany 2006, the rules for how teams advance from each group can often impact coaching strategies. In the World Cup and European Championships, qualification from the group stage is identical with the top two teams from each group advancing to the knockout stage of the competition. If two or more teams finish level on points (earning 3 with a win and 1 for a draw), tiebreakers are used. The first decider is goal difference, then total goals scored, followed by head-to-head results, and finally the drawing of lots. One clear trend you see happening is in a team’s final game. Due to tiebreaker rules, there are times when a certain match result will guarantee both teams advance. A classic example of this happened in the 2004 European Championships in Group C. Before the final group games were played, Group C’s table was as follows:
TEAM
W
D
L
GF
GA
PTS
Sweden
1
1
0
6
1
4
Denmark
1
1
0
2
0
4
italy
0
2
0
1
1
2
Bulgaria
0
0
2
0
7
0
If Sweden and Denmark tied at 0-0 or 1-1, Sweden and Italy would advance.If the game tied at 2-2 or higher, Sweden and Denmark would advance.During the second half, the score became tied at 2-2. At that point, the players on the field stopped attacking and were content doing passing drills until time elapsed.
A similar situation happened in the 2002 World Cup when Brazil played Turkey in the last match in their group. If Turkey lost 2-1, drew or won, both Brazil and Turkey would advance. Savvy bettors identified this and bet on the exact score of the match, Brazil to win 2-1. Not surprisingly, that was the score of the game.
Another less obvious situation to look for is coaches who are content with a tie in the group stages. While every coach would like their team to win, it’s often more important during the pressure cauldron of a major tournament to simply not lose. In the 2002 World Cup, 13 out of 48 group stage matches ended in a draw and during France 98, 16 out of 48 matches at the group stage also ended in a draw including 5 out of the first 16 opening matches played.
Betting the draw can be profitable if you carefully select your positions and look for value when making bets. Unless there’s a strong angle it might be wiser to pass on the draw as you’re typically betting into a line that has far more juice or bookmaker’s commission than an “Asian handicap�. An Asian handicap is like a bet on the point spread in the NFL – where you have a spread and moneyline combined.
http://www.sport-betting-links.com
Wednesday, May 31, 2006
Tuesday, May 30, 2006
Sports Betting
MLB Baseball Handicapping
MLB Baseball Power Rankings Week 9
The time has finally come to give the Detroit Tigers their due and move them to the top of this week's edition of the MLB Power Rankings. Not only are the Tigers winning consistently, but they're also ahead of the defending champion Chicago White Sox in the AL Central. Most figured the White Sox would cruise to that division title this season, or at the very least get a challenge from the up-and-coming Cleveland Indians. However, thanks to a pitching staff that boasts a league-leading 3.25 ERA and has already tossed nine shutouts, the Tigers are the team everyone's behind. The St. Louis Cardinals fall one spot to No. 2 in this week's edition of the rankings, where they're followed by the Chicago White Sox, Boston Red Sox, and New York Mets. The Arizona Diamondbacks, Los Angeles Dodgers, New York Yankees, Atlanta Braves, and Cincinnati Reds make up the rest of this week's Top 10, while the Colorado Rockies fall from No. 6 to No. 12 after some poor results last week. And it goes without saying that the Kansas City Royals sit at No. 30 this week, but the shockingly bad Chicago Cubs have become a contender for that last spot too. Here is the Week 9 edition of the MLB Power Rankings. 01 - Detroit Tigers (Last Week 02)Win streak wasn't against the league's best competition, but we're all impressed by the Tigers' play nonetheless. 02 - St. Louis Cardinals (Last Week 01)Can get some wins at the expense of division opponents this week, as they play sets against the Astros and Cubs. 03 - Chicago White Sox (Last Week 03)They have to be concerned about Jon Garland's stats, but Jose Contreras is opening eyes with his recent outings. 04 - Boston Red Sox (Last Week 04)Have taken a bit of a lead over the Yankees in the AL East division despite losing twice to New York early last week. 05 - New York Mets (Last Week 05)Must be hearing the Braves' footsteps behind them, but still putting up enough wins to lead the NL East division. 06 - Arizona Diamondbacks (Last Week 08)Brandon Webb ran his season record to 8-0 on Friday night by tossing a complete-game shutout versus the Reds. 07 - Los Angeles Dodgers (Last Week 09)Sit in second place in the tightly bunched NL West division as they embark on series versus the Braves and Phillies. 08 - New York Yankees (Last Week 07)Play four games in Detroit this week before heading down to Baltimore for a three-game series with the Orioles. 09 - Atlanta Braves (Last Week 14)Won all three games versus the struggling Cubs on the weekend, but face the hot Dodgers and D-Backs this week. 10 - Cincinnati Reds (Last Week 10)Holding steady on the list and in the standings this week, but scored only five runs in three games on the weekend. 11 - Toronto Blue Jays (Last Week 17)Middle infield situation has gotten so bad that Troy Glaus played a game at shortstop. Who's next, Manny Lee? 12 - Colorado Rockies (Last Week 06)Their time near the top of the NL West division didn't last long thanks to the hot play of the Dodgers and D-Backs. 13 - San Francisco Giants (Last Week 13)Barry has now passed the Babe, but we won't have to worry about him reaching Aaron at any point this season. 14 - Milwaukee Brewers (Last Week 15)Not playing well enough to put a dent in the Cardinals' lead atop the NL Central, or even to hop over the Reds. 15 - Houston Astros (Last Week 11)Not playing well enough to put a dent in the Cardinals' lead atop the NL Central, or even to hop over the Reds. 16 - San Diego Padres (Last Week 16)The lowest-ranked team in the NL West was the preseason favorite to win the division. Need their own hot streak. 17 - Texas Rangers (Last Week 18)Barely above .500, but in first place in the AL West. One of those things will have to change as the season goes on. 18 - Cleveland Indians (Last Week 20)If the pitching could match the good hitting, they'd be ok. Other than ace C.C. Sabathia, no one else is doing the job. 19 - Philadelphia Phillies (Last Week 12)Lost four times in six games last week, dropping two to the Mets and two more to the Brewers over that stretch. 20 - Minnesota Twins (Last Week 24)Francisco Liriano is looking good in the rotation; with all their other pitching problems, they'll likely keep him there. 21 - Oakland Athletics (Last Week 19)Poor week saw them get swept by the White Sox then lose three times in a four-game set versus the Athletics. 22 - Baltimore Orioles (Last Week 22)Top prospect Hayden Penn's season debut was nixed by appendicitis. He'll likely get another chance this season. 23 - Washington Nationals (Last Week 26)Recent solid stretch has kept them above the Marlins in the NL East, for whatever that's worth. Next up: Phillies. 24 - Seattle Mariners (Last Week 21)Felix Hernandez was decent in his last outing, and the team is hoping he can string together a stretch like that. 25 - Los Angeles Angels (Last Week 27)Luckily for them no one else in the AL West is playing very well, so their low position in the standings isn't dire. 26 - Tampa Bay Devil Rays (Last Week 23)We'd stop talking about Scott Kazmir in this space every week if someone else of interest joined the Devil Rays. 27 - Florida Marlins (Last Week 29)Dontrelle Willis lost again on Saturday, and the Marlins may be regretting not dealing him away in the offseason. 28 - Pittsburgh Pirates (Last Week 28)Jason Bay has been hitting up a storm, but his exploits alone aren't going to help the Pirates move up the standings. 29 - Chicago Cubs (Last Week 25)Swept by both the Marlins and the Braves last week to sink to these depths. Dusty Baker can't be too comfortable. 30 - Kansas City Royals (Last Week 30)Ran into the Tigers at the worst possible time, and were swept in a four-game set. Also dropped two to New York.
http://www.sport-betting-links.com
MLB Baseball Power Rankings Week 9
The time has finally come to give the Detroit Tigers their due and move them to the top of this week's edition of the MLB Power Rankings. Not only are the Tigers winning consistently, but they're also ahead of the defending champion Chicago White Sox in the AL Central. Most figured the White Sox would cruise to that division title this season, or at the very least get a challenge from the up-and-coming Cleveland Indians. However, thanks to a pitching staff that boasts a league-leading 3.25 ERA and has already tossed nine shutouts, the Tigers are the team everyone's behind. The St. Louis Cardinals fall one spot to No. 2 in this week's edition of the rankings, where they're followed by the Chicago White Sox, Boston Red Sox, and New York Mets. The Arizona Diamondbacks, Los Angeles Dodgers, New York Yankees, Atlanta Braves, and Cincinnati Reds make up the rest of this week's Top 10, while the Colorado Rockies fall from No. 6 to No. 12 after some poor results last week. And it goes without saying that the Kansas City Royals sit at No. 30 this week, but the shockingly bad Chicago Cubs have become a contender for that last spot too. Here is the Week 9 edition of the MLB Power Rankings. 01 - Detroit Tigers (Last Week 02)Win streak wasn't against the league's best competition, but we're all impressed by the Tigers' play nonetheless. 02 - St. Louis Cardinals (Last Week 01)Can get some wins at the expense of division opponents this week, as they play sets against the Astros and Cubs. 03 - Chicago White Sox (Last Week 03)They have to be concerned about Jon Garland's stats, but Jose Contreras is opening eyes with his recent outings. 04 - Boston Red Sox (Last Week 04)Have taken a bit of a lead over the Yankees in the AL East division despite losing twice to New York early last week. 05 - New York Mets (Last Week 05)Must be hearing the Braves' footsteps behind them, but still putting up enough wins to lead the NL East division. 06 - Arizona Diamondbacks (Last Week 08)Brandon Webb ran his season record to 8-0 on Friday night by tossing a complete-game shutout versus the Reds. 07 - Los Angeles Dodgers (Last Week 09)Sit in second place in the tightly bunched NL West division as they embark on series versus the Braves and Phillies. 08 - New York Yankees (Last Week 07)Play four games in Detroit this week before heading down to Baltimore for a three-game series with the Orioles. 09 - Atlanta Braves (Last Week 14)Won all three games versus the struggling Cubs on the weekend, but face the hot Dodgers and D-Backs this week. 10 - Cincinnati Reds (Last Week 10)Holding steady on the list and in the standings this week, but scored only five runs in three games on the weekend. 11 - Toronto Blue Jays (Last Week 17)Middle infield situation has gotten so bad that Troy Glaus played a game at shortstop. Who's next, Manny Lee? 12 - Colorado Rockies (Last Week 06)Their time near the top of the NL West division didn't last long thanks to the hot play of the Dodgers and D-Backs. 13 - San Francisco Giants (Last Week 13)Barry has now passed the Babe, but we won't have to worry about him reaching Aaron at any point this season. 14 - Milwaukee Brewers (Last Week 15)Not playing well enough to put a dent in the Cardinals' lead atop the NL Central, or even to hop over the Reds. 15 - Houston Astros (Last Week 11)Not playing well enough to put a dent in the Cardinals' lead atop the NL Central, or even to hop over the Reds. 16 - San Diego Padres (Last Week 16)The lowest-ranked team in the NL West was the preseason favorite to win the division. Need their own hot streak. 17 - Texas Rangers (Last Week 18)Barely above .500, but in first place in the AL West. One of those things will have to change as the season goes on. 18 - Cleveland Indians (Last Week 20)If the pitching could match the good hitting, they'd be ok. Other than ace C.C. Sabathia, no one else is doing the job. 19 - Philadelphia Phillies (Last Week 12)Lost four times in six games last week, dropping two to the Mets and two more to the Brewers over that stretch. 20 - Minnesota Twins (Last Week 24)Francisco Liriano is looking good in the rotation; with all their other pitching problems, they'll likely keep him there. 21 - Oakland Athletics (Last Week 19)Poor week saw them get swept by the White Sox then lose three times in a four-game set versus the Athletics. 22 - Baltimore Orioles (Last Week 22)Top prospect Hayden Penn's season debut was nixed by appendicitis. He'll likely get another chance this season. 23 - Washington Nationals (Last Week 26)Recent solid stretch has kept them above the Marlins in the NL East, for whatever that's worth. Next up: Phillies. 24 - Seattle Mariners (Last Week 21)Felix Hernandez was decent in his last outing, and the team is hoping he can string together a stretch like that. 25 - Los Angeles Angels (Last Week 27)Luckily for them no one else in the AL West is playing very well, so their low position in the standings isn't dire. 26 - Tampa Bay Devil Rays (Last Week 23)We'd stop talking about Scott Kazmir in this space every week if someone else of interest joined the Devil Rays. 27 - Florida Marlins (Last Week 29)Dontrelle Willis lost again on Saturday, and the Marlins may be regretting not dealing him away in the offseason. 28 - Pittsburgh Pirates (Last Week 28)Jason Bay has been hitting up a storm, but his exploits alone aren't going to help the Pirates move up the standings. 29 - Chicago Cubs (Last Week 25)Swept by both the Marlins and the Braves last week to sink to these depths. Dusty Baker can't be too comfortable. 30 - Kansas City Royals (Last Week 30)Ran into the Tigers at the worst possible time, and were swept in a four-game set. Also dropped two to New York.
http://www.sport-betting-links.com
Monday, May 29, 2006
Sports Betting
Sports Betting
Stanley Cup Betting - Oilers Resting UpThe Edmonton Oilers advanced to the Stanley Cup Finals on Saturday night by beating the Anaheim Mighty Ducks 2-1 to win their best-of-seven series. The Oilers now must play the waiting game, as the Eastern Conference Finals could go as late as Thursday. So who would the Oilers rather play for the Cup, the Carolina Hurricanes or the Buffalo Sabres? Obviously they aren't saying, and there's very little matchup data from the past season for the Oilers versus either potential Eastern opponent. In fact, Edmonton only played once against Buffalo during the year, and they didn't face Carolina a single time. That one game versus the Sabres came on January 16, and took place at Rexall Place. Buffalo got the best of Edmonton that night, as Ryan Miller allowed only one goal in a 3-1 Sabres victory. Jussi Markkanen was in net for the Oilers and took the loss. Edmonton had been listed as a -150 favorite on the moneyline, while the total had been set at 6.5. Current Oilers starting goaltender Dwayne Roloson played once against the Sabres as a member of the Minnesota Wild during the regular season. Buffalo got the best of that December 11 matchup as well, winning 3-2 behind the netminding of backup Martin Biron. The Sabres were +100 road favorites in that game, while the total was set at 5.5. Both the Sabres and the Hurricanes had better regular season records than Edmonton. Buffalo finished with a 52-24-6 mark, Carolina was 52-22-8, and Edmonton was 41-28-13. As well, while the Oilers scored 256 goals and allowed 251 over the course of the regular season, the Sabres (281-239) and Hurricanes (294-260) had better differentials. All that, though, could be thrown out the window when the Stanley Cup Finals finally get underway. The Oilers defied all expectations by making it to this point, as they were the eighth and final seed in the Western Conference heading into the playoffs. Most figured they would simply be road kill for the Detroit Red Wings on their way to the Stanley Cup. However, the Wings quickly found out that their first-round series wouldn't be a walk in the park. After struggling to win in overtime in Game 1, the Red Wings fell to Edmonton in both Game 2 and Game 3. Another Detroit win in Game 4 tightened up the set, but the Oilers then bounced back with two straight victories to advance to the second round. And it didn't look good for Edmonton early in Round 2, as the San Jose Sharks won the first two games of the series and looked to be on the fast track to advancement. However, a triple-overtime win for the Oilers in Game 3 proved to be the tide-turner, and Edmonton would then win the next three games of the set to move on to face Anaheim. The Ducks series finally saw the Oilers get out to a quick start, as they won Game 1 by a 3-1 margin. Subsequent wins in Game 2 (3-1) and Game 3 (5-4) gave Edmonton a commanding lead in the series. Anaheim showed some life in the series by winning Game 4 by a 6-3 score, but the Oilers shook off that loss and advanced in five games. In 17 postseason games this year the Oilers have an OVER/UNDER record of 6-9 with two PUSH plays. And although Edmonton won't have home-ice advantage in the Finals, they haven't had any trouble winning on the road in the playoffs. In nine postseason games away from Rexall Place the Oilers have managed to pick up a victory six times. Edmonton last played in the Finals back in 1990, when they won their fifth Stanley Cup in seven seasons. That Oilers team, which lacked Wayne Gretzky, went only 38-28-14 during the regular season but got MVP goaltending from Bill Ranford in the playoffs. One more strong set by Roloson could see him follow in Ranford's champion footsteps.
http://www.sport-betting-links.com
Stanley Cup Betting - Oilers Resting UpThe Edmonton Oilers advanced to the Stanley Cup Finals on Saturday night by beating the Anaheim Mighty Ducks 2-1 to win their best-of-seven series. The Oilers now must play the waiting game, as the Eastern Conference Finals could go as late as Thursday. So who would the Oilers rather play for the Cup, the Carolina Hurricanes or the Buffalo Sabres? Obviously they aren't saying, and there's very little matchup data from the past season for the Oilers versus either potential Eastern opponent. In fact, Edmonton only played once against Buffalo during the year, and they didn't face Carolina a single time. That one game versus the Sabres came on January 16, and took place at Rexall Place. Buffalo got the best of Edmonton that night, as Ryan Miller allowed only one goal in a 3-1 Sabres victory. Jussi Markkanen was in net for the Oilers and took the loss. Edmonton had been listed as a -150 favorite on the moneyline, while the total had been set at 6.5. Current Oilers starting goaltender Dwayne Roloson played once against the Sabres as a member of the Minnesota Wild during the regular season. Buffalo got the best of that December 11 matchup as well, winning 3-2 behind the netminding of backup Martin Biron. The Sabres were +100 road favorites in that game, while the total was set at 5.5. Both the Sabres and the Hurricanes had better regular season records than Edmonton. Buffalo finished with a 52-24-6 mark, Carolina was 52-22-8, and Edmonton was 41-28-13. As well, while the Oilers scored 256 goals and allowed 251 over the course of the regular season, the Sabres (281-239) and Hurricanes (294-260) had better differentials. All that, though, could be thrown out the window when the Stanley Cup Finals finally get underway. The Oilers defied all expectations by making it to this point, as they were the eighth and final seed in the Western Conference heading into the playoffs. Most figured they would simply be road kill for the Detroit Red Wings on their way to the Stanley Cup. However, the Wings quickly found out that their first-round series wouldn't be a walk in the park. After struggling to win in overtime in Game 1, the Red Wings fell to Edmonton in both Game 2 and Game 3. Another Detroit win in Game 4 tightened up the set, but the Oilers then bounced back with two straight victories to advance to the second round. And it didn't look good for Edmonton early in Round 2, as the San Jose Sharks won the first two games of the series and looked to be on the fast track to advancement. However, a triple-overtime win for the Oilers in Game 3 proved to be the tide-turner, and Edmonton would then win the next three games of the set to move on to face Anaheim. The Ducks series finally saw the Oilers get out to a quick start, as they won Game 1 by a 3-1 margin. Subsequent wins in Game 2 (3-1) and Game 3 (5-4) gave Edmonton a commanding lead in the series. Anaheim showed some life in the series by winning Game 4 by a 6-3 score, but the Oilers shook off that loss and advanced in five games. In 17 postseason games this year the Oilers have an OVER/UNDER record of 6-9 with two PUSH plays. And although Edmonton won't have home-ice advantage in the Finals, they haven't had any trouble winning on the road in the playoffs. In nine postseason games away from Rexall Place the Oilers have managed to pick up a victory six times. Edmonton last played in the Finals back in 1990, when they won their fifth Stanley Cup in seven seasons. That Oilers team, which lacked Wayne Gretzky, went only 38-28-14 during the regular season but got MVP goaltending from Bill Ranford in the playoffs. One more strong set by Roloson could see him follow in Ranford's champion footsteps.
http://www.sport-betting-links.com
Sunday, May 28, 2006
NBA Betting
The Phoenix Suns will try to make it two in a row on the road to open up their Western Conference finals series with the Dallas Mavericks Friday night, while the Detroit Pistons and Miami Heat head to south Florida all tied up in their Eastern Conference finals.
The Suns beat the Mavs in Game 1 Wednesday 121-118, coming back from 9 points down late in the game to steal a win and home-court advantage in this series.
Phoenix is 26-22 straight up on the road this season, 3-4 in the playoffs, 27-21 against the spread away from home, and 13-12 ats as underdogs.
Dallas is 38-9 straight up at home, 4-2 in the playoffs, 25-22 vs. the number and 36-37 ats as chalk.
The Mavericks are 8-4 in the playoffs this year, the only losses coming by 1, 2, 3 and 5 points.
The Suns beat Dallas in the Western Conference semis last season 4 games to 2. The teams split four games regular season this year, each winning once on the other’s home court.
Phoenix will be without guard Raja Bell, who suffered a calf injury Wednesday, for Friday's game, while Dallas might be minus Josh Howard, who has a bad ankle.
Dallas is a 7 ½-point favorite for Friday’s Game 2, with a total of 224.
Games 3 and 4 of this series will be played Sunday and Tuesday in Phoenix.
In the Eastern Conference, the road team also won Game 1 of the conference finals. The Miami Heat bottled up the Detroit Pistons 91-86 Tuesday night, but the Pistons held on to beat the Heat 92-88 Thursday night to even up this series.
These two teams met in last season’s Eastern Conference finals, with Detroit prevailing in 7 games. The Heat led the series 3 games to 2, but lost Game 6 with guard Dwyane Wade on the bench and fell late in Game 7.
The Pistons won the regular-season series between these two teams this season 3 games to 1, and only a miraculous Miami rally in the last meeting Feb. 12 kept it from being a sweep.
Miami is a 3 1/2-point favorite for Saturday's Game 3 (8 p.m. Eastern), with a total of 182. Game 4 of this series will be played Monday in Miami.
This deep into the NBA playoffs there's no real betting value in these spreads. We're gonna grab some beers and play a prop or two. No use in betting a ton on a game that's a coin flip!
http://www.sport-betting-links.com
The Suns beat the Mavs in Game 1 Wednesday 121-118, coming back from 9 points down late in the game to steal a win and home-court advantage in this series.
Phoenix is 26-22 straight up on the road this season, 3-4 in the playoffs, 27-21 against the spread away from home, and 13-12 ats as underdogs.
Dallas is 38-9 straight up at home, 4-2 in the playoffs, 25-22 vs. the number and 36-37 ats as chalk.
The Mavericks are 8-4 in the playoffs this year, the only losses coming by 1, 2, 3 and 5 points.
The Suns beat Dallas in the Western Conference semis last season 4 games to 2. The teams split four games regular season this year, each winning once on the other’s home court.
Phoenix will be without guard Raja Bell, who suffered a calf injury Wednesday, for Friday's game, while Dallas might be minus Josh Howard, who has a bad ankle.
Dallas is a 7 ½-point favorite for Friday’s Game 2, with a total of 224.
Games 3 and 4 of this series will be played Sunday and Tuesday in Phoenix.
In the Eastern Conference, the road team also won Game 1 of the conference finals. The Miami Heat bottled up the Detroit Pistons 91-86 Tuesday night, but the Pistons held on to beat the Heat 92-88 Thursday night to even up this series.
These two teams met in last season’s Eastern Conference finals, with Detroit prevailing in 7 games. The Heat led the series 3 games to 2, but lost Game 6 with guard Dwyane Wade on the bench and fell late in Game 7.
The Pistons won the regular-season series between these two teams this season 3 games to 1, and only a miraculous Miami rally in the last meeting Feb. 12 kept it from being a sweep.
Miami is a 3 1/2-point favorite for Saturday's Game 3 (8 p.m. Eastern), with a total of 182. Game 4 of this series will be played Monday in Miami.
This deep into the NBA playoffs there's no real betting value in these spreads. We're gonna grab some beers and play a prop or two. No use in betting a ton on a game that's a coin flip!
http://www.sport-betting-links.com
Saturday, May 27, 2006
Sports Betting
Sports Betting
Weekend Sports Preview: May 26Playoff action in each of the NBA, NHL, and AFL takes center stage this weekend as those leagues get closer to crowning a champion. Also on tap over the next few days are full slates of MLB, a smattering of WNBA, and both NASCAR and Formula 1 races. Game 2 of the NBA's Western Conference Finals goes Friday night, with the Phoenix Suns looking for a second straight road victory over the Dallas Mavericks. In the series opener on Wednesday the Suns came back from nine points down late in the game to win 121-118. Boris Diaw had 34 points for Phoenix in the win, while Steve Nash picked up 27 points and 16 assists. Dirk Nowitzki scored 25 and grabbed 19 boards in the loss. The Suns/Mavericks series shifts to Phoenix for Game 3 on Sunday night, with Game 4 also being played in the desert on Tuesday night. Over in the Eastern Conference, the Detroit Pistons and Miami Heat will play Game 3 of their best-of-seven set on Saturday night down in South Florida, with Game 4 going down in Miami as well on Monday night. On the ice, Game 4 of the Eastern Conference Finals between the Carolina Hurricanes and Buffalo Sabres will be played on Friday night in Western New York. The Sabres pulled out a 4-3 victory in Game 3 to take a 2-1 lead in the series. Should Buffalo win on Friday night, they'll be able to finish off the set down in Raleigh in Game 5 on Sunday. Meanwhile, Game 5 of the Western Conference Finals goes on Saturday night in Anaheim. The Mighty Ducks staved off elimination on Thursday by defeating the Edmonton Oilers 6-3. However, the Ducks still trail the best-of-seven series 3-1, and can't afford a single loss the rest of the set. Game 6, if required, goes Monday. The Detroit Tigers will try to continue their winning ways this weekend at the expense of the division-rival Cleveland Indians. The Tigers are the surprising leaders of the AL Central, while the Tribe are trying to shake off a poor start to the year. Elsewhere in the AL over the next few days it's Kansas City at New York, Tampa Bay at Boston, Chicago at Toronto, Oakland at Texas, Seattle at Minnesota, and Baltimore at Los Angeles. In National League action this weekend, the teams of the west will continue to jockey for position in their tightly-packed division. Series involving NL West teams include Los Angeles at Washington, Arizona at Cincinnati, St. Louis at San Diego, and Colorado at San Francisco. Other National League matchups coming up to end the week are Atlanta at Chicago, Milwaukee at Philadelphia, Houston at Pittsburgh, and New York at Florida. The Arena Football League stages the divisional round of its postseason this weekend, with two games on tap for both Saturday and Sunday afternoon. On Saturday it's Georgia at Dallas (-6) and Arizona at San Jose (-4), while Sunday features Chicago at Colorado (-3) and Philadelphia at Orlando (-3). The conference championships are scheduled for next weekend, with ArenaBowl XX in Las Vegas set for Sunday, June 11. It's a light weekend in the WNBA, with only one game going on Friday and two more taking place on Saturday. Friday's matchup sees Indiana traveling to Chicago to take on the Sky, while Saturday features Detroit at Connecticut and Minnesota at Washington. In Nextel Cup Series action, Jimmie Johnson and his fellow drivers will be competing for points on Sunday in the Coca-Cola 600 at Lowe's Motor Speedway. Johnson is coming off a win in the All-Star Challenge at Lowe's, has won each of the past four points races (and five of the past six) on the track, and is currently sitting atop the driver standings. Finally, overseas, the drivers of Formula 1 will continue their 2006 season on Sunday with the Monaco Grand Prix in Monte Carlo. Fernando Alonso is coming off a victory in the Spanish Grand Prix, and leads Michael Schumacher by 15 points in the drivers championship. Renault also leads Ferrari by 19 points for the constructors season title
http://www.sport-betting-links.com
Weekend Sports Preview: May 26Playoff action in each of the NBA, NHL, and AFL takes center stage this weekend as those leagues get closer to crowning a champion. Also on tap over the next few days are full slates of MLB, a smattering of WNBA, and both NASCAR and Formula 1 races. Game 2 of the NBA's Western Conference Finals goes Friday night, with the Phoenix Suns looking for a second straight road victory over the Dallas Mavericks. In the series opener on Wednesday the Suns came back from nine points down late in the game to win 121-118. Boris Diaw had 34 points for Phoenix in the win, while Steve Nash picked up 27 points and 16 assists. Dirk Nowitzki scored 25 and grabbed 19 boards in the loss. The Suns/Mavericks series shifts to Phoenix for Game 3 on Sunday night, with Game 4 also being played in the desert on Tuesday night. Over in the Eastern Conference, the Detroit Pistons and Miami Heat will play Game 3 of their best-of-seven set on Saturday night down in South Florida, with Game 4 going down in Miami as well on Monday night. On the ice, Game 4 of the Eastern Conference Finals between the Carolina Hurricanes and Buffalo Sabres will be played on Friday night in Western New York. The Sabres pulled out a 4-3 victory in Game 3 to take a 2-1 lead in the series. Should Buffalo win on Friday night, they'll be able to finish off the set down in Raleigh in Game 5 on Sunday. Meanwhile, Game 5 of the Western Conference Finals goes on Saturday night in Anaheim. The Mighty Ducks staved off elimination on Thursday by defeating the Edmonton Oilers 6-3. However, the Ducks still trail the best-of-seven series 3-1, and can't afford a single loss the rest of the set. Game 6, if required, goes Monday. The Detroit Tigers will try to continue their winning ways this weekend at the expense of the division-rival Cleveland Indians. The Tigers are the surprising leaders of the AL Central, while the Tribe are trying to shake off a poor start to the year. Elsewhere in the AL over the next few days it's Kansas City at New York, Tampa Bay at Boston, Chicago at Toronto, Oakland at Texas, Seattle at Minnesota, and Baltimore at Los Angeles. In National League action this weekend, the teams of the west will continue to jockey for position in their tightly-packed division. Series involving NL West teams include Los Angeles at Washington, Arizona at Cincinnati, St. Louis at San Diego, and Colorado at San Francisco. Other National League matchups coming up to end the week are Atlanta at Chicago, Milwaukee at Philadelphia, Houston at Pittsburgh, and New York at Florida. The Arena Football League stages the divisional round of its postseason this weekend, with two games on tap for both Saturday and Sunday afternoon. On Saturday it's Georgia at Dallas (-6) and Arizona at San Jose (-4), while Sunday features Chicago at Colorado (-3) and Philadelphia at Orlando (-3). The conference championships are scheduled for next weekend, with ArenaBowl XX in Las Vegas set for Sunday, June 11. It's a light weekend in the WNBA, with only one game going on Friday and two more taking place on Saturday. Friday's matchup sees Indiana traveling to Chicago to take on the Sky, while Saturday features Detroit at Connecticut and Minnesota at Washington. In Nextel Cup Series action, Jimmie Johnson and his fellow drivers will be competing for points on Sunday in the Coca-Cola 600 at Lowe's Motor Speedway. Johnson is coming off a win in the All-Star Challenge at Lowe's, has won each of the past four points races (and five of the past six) on the track, and is currently sitting atop the driver standings. Finally, overseas, the drivers of Formula 1 will continue their 2006 season on Sunday with the Monaco Grand Prix in Monte Carlo. Fernando Alonso is coming off a victory in the Spanish Grand Prix, and leads Michael Schumacher by 15 points in the drivers championship. Renault also leads Ferrari by 19 points for the constructors season title
http://www.sport-betting-links.com
Tuesday, May 16, 2006
Sports Betting
NFL Football Handicapping
NFL Offseason Report - AFC North
Baltimore Ravens The Ravens were expected to contend for a playoff spot but offensive woes led to a 2-7 start before they rallied to win 4 of their last 7 games to finish 6-10. The offense, despite several offseason upgrades, was sabotaged by poor QB play from Kyle Boller and Anthony Wright. They ranked 24th overall and didn't score 20 points until their 11th game. They had one 20+ point game in their first 13 outings and that just won't get it done in the NFL. Despite injuries to MLB Ray Lewis and SS Ed Reed, the defense acquitted itself well, ranking 5th overall. OLB Adalius Thomas led the defense and LB Bart Scott, Lewis' replacement, also played well. Boller had 2 strong games at the end of the season but faltered badly in the season finale at Cleveland. The O-Line was a sore spot all season as even All-World LT Jonathan Ogden didn't play up to his usual standards. The team used ancient CBs Deion Sanders and Dale Carter in their nickel and dime packages but expect both to be gone this year. Despite the substandard QB play, TE Todd Heap led the offense with 75 catches for 855 yards and 7 scores. FA WR Derrick Mason caught 86 passes (3rd in AFC) but only scored 3 times. Unlike recent drafts, the Ravens got little contribution from their '05 class as only WR Mark Clayton (44 catches) contributed. Despite ample cap room, Baltimore has been quiet in the early stages of free agency. They have sustained some losses, as RB Chester Taylor (MIN), P Dave Zastudil (CLE), FS Will Demps (NYG), TE Darnell Dinkins (CLE) and DT Ma'ake Kemoeatu (CAR) signed elsewhere. They have only added CB Corey Ivy (STL) and special teamer DE-LB Gary Stills (KC) up to this point. The Ravens generally will have a big signing or two but have yet to pull the trigger this year. Expect them to look for a veteran QB and some established players for their lines and at FS. The Ravens still have a lot of their own FAs to make decisions on. Some of the top players who remain unsigned are Scott, OLB Tommy Polley, DE Anthony Weaver, Wright and S Chad Williams. If Weaver leaves, DE becomes a priority. Baltimore owns the 13th pick and could go any number of ways. None of the top 3 QBs figure to be there but they could go for a top RB, despite resigning Jamal Lewis. He struggled last season and spent 4 months in jail in the offseason. An O-lineman that can start now would be of use but none figure to warrant a pick at that spot. The Ravens may be better suited to trade down and try to gain extra mid-round picks to shore up their lines. A FS who could start now would be welcome. Ivy could be the new nickel back but a young corner with solid cover skills could also be targeted. BALT added RB Mike Anderson (DEN) - The addition of Anderson gives the Ravens two big, bruising backs but look for them to acquire a smaller scatback- type of runner as a change of pace. Anderson and Lewis will probably split carries in the early part of the season. BALT lost DE Anthony Weaver - This loss is offset by the signing of DE Trevor Pryce (DEN). Pryce, if healthy, is a better pass rusher than Weaver and should make more big plays. Cincinnati Bengals The Bengals came into 2005 after back-to-back 8-8 seasons in the first two years of the Marvin Lewis era. The coach preached patience and it paid off in spades as Cincinnati raced out to a 4-0 record en route to an 11-3 start and the clinching of the AFC North title, their first in 17 years. However, they dropped their last 2 regular-season games as the suspect run defense sprung leaks and the secondary started to give up big plays. In their playoff game, QB Carson Palmer, coming off a near-MVP season (32 TD passes, 67.8 completion pct. and 101.1 QB rating) suffered a severe knee injury after completing his first pass and may not be ready for the start of the season. They bowed out to Pittsburgh as QB Jon Kitna couldn't sustain drives. The defense also bears blame for failure to get critical stops. Despite the disappointing conclusion, it was still a banner year for this young team. The offense ranked 6th overall and 4th in scoring. The O-line, led by bookend tackles Levi Jones and Willie Anderson, ranked 2nd in sack pct. allowed. WR Chad Johnson talked a good game and backed it up, leading the AFC in catches (97) and yards (1,432). He also caught 9 TD passes. The defense, despite an NFL-high 31 picks, ranked 28th overall and 30th in 3rd-down defense. Rookie MLB Odell Thurman was a year-long starter and quickly became the leader on defense. Fellow rookie David Pollack took a while to get going but also became a contributor. The D-line and secondary were weak links, as a season-ending injury to FS Madieu Williams really hurt the secondary. Despite being near the top in available cap space, the Bengals haven't spent much. Bringing in former Super Bowl MVP S Dexter Jackson (TB) should help the secondary. WR-KR Antonio Chatman (GB) should help the return game. Those are the only two additions the club has made. Gone are TE Matt Schobel (PHI), Kitna (DET) and DE Duane Clemons. The club still has 7-8 of their own FAs but none figure to be a priority, especially with the solid drafts executed in the past five seasons. The team would love to sign a veteran run-stuffing DT and a productive TE. CB is also an area they would like to upgrade. The Bengals enter the draft with the 24th pick, their lowest pick in years. DT remains the primary need but the team may address that with a veteran. Jackson and Williams are both FS-types but the team will probably play both of them, so don't expect a high pick on a SS thumper. This is a good draft for TEs, so expect a 2nd or 3rd-round pick to be spent there. A pass-rushing DE who can hold up at the point of attack would also be welcome. The O-line played great last season but C Rich Braham is 35 and his successor could be tabbed here. More corners would also help and the club may spend a first day pick on one. Until the Bengals loosen the purse strings in FA, it's hard to say where they will go in the early rounds of the draft. CIN lost WR Kevin Walter (HOU) Cleveland Browns The Browns entered 2005 knowing there would be growing pains after the disastrous Butch Davis regime. The new team of GM Phil Savage and HC Romeo Crennel knew there would be lumps but also expected to see progress. They were right on both accounts. Cleveland won 6 games and the defense did better than expected after Crennel installed the 3-4. They had a stretch in midseason where they allowed 19 points or less in 7 of 8 games. This was done without a lot of talent in the front seven. They ranked 30th in run defense and just couldn't get stops when they needed them. The secondary played better than expected. QB Trent Dilfer was serviceable as a caretaker but rookie QB Charlie Frye figures to lead the team this season. The trade that brought RB Reuben Droughns to Cleveland paid handsomely as he became the first Cleveland RB to top 1,000 yards (1,232) SINCE 1985. TE Kellen Winslow was lost for the season after some ill-advised hijinks on a motorcycle. He has played 1 complete game in 2 years. If he doesn't stay healthy he'll have to return to being Vin Diesel's stand-in. Rookie WR Braylon Edwards was lost for the year just when he started to make an impact. Overall, considering the talent available, installing a new defensive system, as well as integrating several new starters, this wasn't a bad season in Cleveland and the future finally looks bright. As expected, the Browns have been major players in FA so far. With up to a reported $30 million in cap space, Savage has had money at his disposal to bring in the players he and Crennel want. Gone are DT Amon Gordon (DEN), TE Aaron Shea (SD), DE-LB Kenard Lang (DEN), LB Ben Taylor (GB), LT L.J. Shelton (MIA), WR Antonio Bryant (SF), G Mike Pucillo (WAS), DT Jason Fisk and CB Michael Lehan. S Chris Crocker was traded to Atlanta for a draft pick. AS expected, the front seven was bolstered by two of Crennel's former players: OLB Willie McGinest (NE) and NT Ted Washington (OAK). These two should really help acclimate the young players to the system as well as contribute some on the field but both are aging. TE Darnell Dinkins (BAL) replaces Shea. G Bob Hallen (SD) and LT Kevin Shaffer (ATL) figure to battle for starting spots. P Dave Zastudil (BAL) will be a big upgrade and his signing hurts a division rival. WR Joe Jurevicius (SEA) adds a veteran presence to a young receiving corps and should still be productive. The jewel so far has been the signing of Pro Bowl C LeCharles Bentley. This means incumbent Jeff Faine will either be cut or moved to guard. The O-line has really been upgraded, freeing up the team to spend draft picks in other critical areas. Despite the many additions in free agency, Cleveland still has some big needs. They need a few more LBs, both on the inside and the outside. They should be able to grab a good one with the 12th pick if they want. NT and DE are also spots that need bodies sooner rather than later. They could also use another safety and corner. Overall, the team looks a lot better now than when the season ended. Expect the front seven to get the most attention on draft day. The offense may get a body or two but this draft will be about defense. Pittsburgh Steelers After going 15-1 in 2004 before crapping out at home (Again!) in the AFC title game, Pittsburgh entered 2005 with something to prove. After stumbling to a 7-5 record and little hope of winning the division, something clicked and the team turned it on. They won their last 4 games by 12 points or more. In the playoffs they won at Cincinnati, setting up a rematch with the Colts (who had trounced them 26-7 on Monday night in Week 12). The Steelers were all over them and despite a big fumble by RB Jerome Bettis, they prevailed 21-18. The game at Denver wasn't close for the AFC title. This put the Steelers in the Super Bowl for the 6th time and with some terrible officiating (worst in Super Bowl history by most accounts) they prevailed 21-10 over Seattle. There were many heroes for the team but QB Ben Roethlisberger gets a lot of credit for his cool demeanor, ability to play through pain and strong leadership skills. RB Willie Parker was a revelation, leading the team with 1,202 yards on the ground. Bettis was effective in his swan song and the defense ranked 4th overall and No.3 vs. the run. OLB Clark Haggans was effective as a new starter and SS Troy Polamalu emerged as a difference-maker. Pittsburgh is never busy shoppers in free agency and this year appears to be no different. They have had more losses than gains and will try to shore up the losses in the draft. Gone are WR Antwaan Randle El, DE Kimo von Oelhoffen (NYJ), FS Chris Hope (TEN), S Mike Logan, S Russell Stuvaints, QB Tommy Maddox and CB Willie Williams. DE Rodney Bailey (SEA) was signed to battle Brett Keisel to replace von Oelhoffen, while S Ryan Clark figures to be a backup safety at best. Receiver took a hit with the loss of Randle El but there aren't many top FA wideouts available. Pittsburgh just doesn't throw money at other team's free agents very often and look for them to be bargain shoppers after June 1. WR has emerged as one of the team's top needs after the loss of Randle El. With the 32nd pick the team could find a wideout but this isn't a deep draft for receivers. RB is also a need as Bettis has retired, Parker has started only one season and RB Duce Staley can't stay healthy. Expect the Steelers to draft a big RB in the early to mid rounds. A FS is also needed as a potential starter isn't on the roster. Some LB depth would be nice and the Steelers are famous for finding great LB value later in the draft. Pittsburgh has remained competitive despite losing FAs every year because they draft so well. Only one of their picks in the last 4 years is out of the NFL.
http://www.sport-betting-links.com
NFL Offseason Report - AFC North
Baltimore Ravens The Ravens were expected to contend for a playoff spot but offensive woes led to a 2-7 start before they rallied to win 4 of their last 7 games to finish 6-10. The offense, despite several offseason upgrades, was sabotaged by poor QB play from Kyle Boller and Anthony Wright. They ranked 24th overall and didn't score 20 points until their 11th game. They had one 20+ point game in their first 13 outings and that just won't get it done in the NFL. Despite injuries to MLB Ray Lewis and SS Ed Reed, the defense acquitted itself well, ranking 5th overall. OLB Adalius Thomas led the defense and LB Bart Scott, Lewis' replacement, also played well. Boller had 2 strong games at the end of the season but faltered badly in the season finale at Cleveland. The O-Line was a sore spot all season as even All-World LT Jonathan Ogden didn't play up to his usual standards. The team used ancient CBs Deion Sanders and Dale Carter in their nickel and dime packages but expect both to be gone this year. Despite the substandard QB play, TE Todd Heap led the offense with 75 catches for 855 yards and 7 scores. FA WR Derrick Mason caught 86 passes (3rd in AFC) but only scored 3 times. Unlike recent drafts, the Ravens got little contribution from their '05 class as only WR Mark Clayton (44 catches) contributed. Despite ample cap room, Baltimore has been quiet in the early stages of free agency. They have sustained some losses, as RB Chester Taylor (MIN), P Dave Zastudil (CLE), FS Will Demps (NYG), TE Darnell Dinkins (CLE) and DT Ma'ake Kemoeatu (CAR) signed elsewhere. They have only added CB Corey Ivy (STL) and special teamer DE-LB Gary Stills (KC) up to this point. The Ravens generally will have a big signing or two but have yet to pull the trigger this year. Expect them to look for a veteran QB and some established players for their lines and at FS. The Ravens still have a lot of their own FAs to make decisions on. Some of the top players who remain unsigned are Scott, OLB Tommy Polley, DE Anthony Weaver, Wright and S Chad Williams. If Weaver leaves, DE becomes a priority. Baltimore owns the 13th pick and could go any number of ways. None of the top 3 QBs figure to be there but they could go for a top RB, despite resigning Jamal Lewis. He struggled last season and spent 4 months in jail in the offseason. An O-lineman that can start now would be of use but none figure to warrant a pick at that spot. The Ravens may be better suited to trade down and try to gain extra mid-round picks to shore up their lines. A FS who could start now would be welcome. Ivy could be the new nickel back but a young corner with solid cover skills could also be targeted. BALT added RB Mike Anderson (DEN) - The addition of Anderson gives the Ravens two big, bruising backs but look for them to acquire a smaller scatback- type of runner as a change of pace. Anderson and Lewis will probably split carries in the early part of the season. BALT lost DE Anthony Weaver - This loss is offset by the signing of DE Trevor Pryce (DEN). Pryce, if healthy, is a better pass rusher than Weaver and should make more big plays. Cincinnati Bengals The Bengals came into 2005 after back-to-back 8-8 seasons in the first two years of the Marvin Lewis era. The coach preached patience and it paid off in spades as Cincinnati raced out to a 4-0 record en route to an 11-3 start and the clinching of the AFC North title, their first in 17 years. However, they dropped their last 2 regular-season games as the suspect run defense sprung leaks and the secondary started to give up big plays. In their playoff game, QB Carson Palmer, coming off a near-MVP season (32 TD passes, 67.8 completion pct. and 101.1 QB rating) suffered a severe knee injury after completing his first pass and may not be ready for the start of the season. They bowed out to Pittsburgh as QB Jon Kitna couldn't sustain drives. The defense also bears blame for failure to get critical stops. Despite the disappointing conclusion, it was still a banner year for this young team. The offense ranked 6th overall and 4th in scoring. The O-line, led by bookend tackles Levi Jones and Willie Anderson, ranked 2nd in sack pct. allowed. WR Chad Johnson talked a good game and backed it up, leading the AFC in catches (97) and yards (1,432). He also caught 9 TD passes. The defense, despite an NFL-high 31 picks, ranked 28th overall and 30th in 3rd-down defense. Rookie MLB Odell Thurman was a year-long starter and quickly became the leader on defense. Fellow rookie David Pollack took a while to get going but also became a contributor. The D-line and secondary were weak links, as a season-ending injury to FS Madieu Williams really hurt the secondary. Despite being near the top in available cap space, the Bengals haven't spent much. Bringing in former Super Bowl MVP S Dexter Jackson (TB) should help the secondary. WR-KR Antonio Chatman (GB) should help the return game. Those are the only two additions the club has made. Gone are TE Matt Schobel (PHI), Kitna (DET) and DE Duane Clemons. The club still has 7-8 of their own FAs but none figure to be a priority, especially with the solid drafts executed in the past five seasons. The team would love to sign a veteran run-stuffing DT and a productive TE. CB is also an area they would like to upgrade. The Bengals enter the draft with the 24th pick, their lowest pick in years. DT remains the primary need but the team may address that with a veteran. Jackson and Williams are both FS-types but the team will probably play both of them, so don't expect a high pick on a SS thumper. This is a good draft for TEs, so expect a 2nd or 3rd-round pick to be spent there. A pass-rushing DE who can hold up at the point of attack would also be welcome. The O-line played great last season but C Rich Braham is 35 and his successor could be tabbed here. More corners would also help and the club may spend a first day pick on one. Until the Bengals loosen the purse strings in FA, it's hard to say where they will go in the early rounds of the draft. CIN lost WR Kevin Walter (HOU) Cleveland Browns The Browns entered 2005 knowing there would be growing pains after the disastrous Butch Davis regime. The new team of GM Phil Savage and HC Romeo Crennel knew there would be lumps but also expected to see progress. They were right on both accounts. Cleveland won 6 games and the defense did better than expected after Crennel installed the 3-4. They had a stretch in midseason where they allowed 19 points or less in 7 of 8 games. This was done without a lot of talent in the front seven. They ranked 30th in run defense and just couldn't get stops when they needed them. The secondary played better than expected. QB Trent Dilfer was serviceable as a caretaker but rookie QB Charlie Frye figures to lead the team this season. The trade that brought RB Reuben Droughns to Cleveland paid handsomely as he became the first Cleveland RB to top 1,000 yards (1,232) SINCE 1985. TE Kellen Winslow was lost for the season after some ill-advised hijinks on a motorcycle. He has played 1 complete game in 2 years. If he doesn't stay healthy he'll have to return to being Vin Diesel's stand-in. Rookie WR Braylon Edwards was lost for the year just when he started to make an impact. Overall, considering the talent available, installing a new defensive system, as well as integrating several new starters, this wasn't a bad season in Cleveland and the future finally looks bright. As expected, the Browns have been major players in FA so far. With up to a reported $30 million in cap space, Savage has had money at his disposal to bring in the players he and Crennel want. Gone are DT Amon Gordon (DEN), TE Aaron Shea (SD), DE-LB Kenard Lang (DEN), LB Ben Taylor (GB), LT L.J. Shelton (MIA), WR Antonio Bryant (SF), G Mike Pucillo (WAS), DT Jason Fisk and CB Michael Lehan. S Chris Crocker was traded to Atlanta for a draft pick. AS expected, the front seven was bolstered by two of Crennel's former players: OLB Willie McGinest (NE) and NT Ted Washington (OAK). These two should really help acclimate the young players to the system as well as contribute some on the field but both are aging. TE Darnell Dinkins (BAL) replaces Shea. G Bob Hallen (SD) and LT Kevin Shaffer (ATL) figure to battle for starting spots. P Dave Zastudil (BAL) will be a big upgrade and his signing hurts a division rival. WR Joe Jurevicius (SEA) adds a veteran presence to a young receiving corps and should still be productive. The jewel so far has been the signing of Pro Bowl C LeCharles Bentley. This means incumbent Jeff Faine will either be cut or moved to guard. The O-line has really been upgraded, freeing up the team to spend draft picks in other critical areas. Despite the many additions in free agency, Cleveland still has some big needs. They need a few more LBs, both on the inside and the outside. They should be able to grab a good one with the 12th pick if they want. NT and DE are also spots that need bodies sooner rather than later. They could also use another safety and corner. Overall, the team looks a lot better now than when the season ended. Expect the front seven to get the most attention on draft day. The offense may get a body or two but this draft will be about defense. Pittsburgh Steelers After going 15-1 in 2004 before crapping out at home (Again!) in the AFC title game, Pittsburgh entered 2005 with something to prove. After stumbling to a 7-5 record and little hope of winning the division, something clicked and the team turned it on. They won their last 4 games by 12 points or more. In the playoffs they won at Cincinnati, setting up a rematch with the Colts (who had trounced them 26-7 on Monday night in Week 12). The Steelers were all over them and despite a big fumble by RB Jerome Bettis, they prevailed 21-18. The game at Denver wasn't close for the AFC title. This put the Steelers in the Super Bowl for the 6th time and with some terrible officiating (worst in Super Bowl history by most accounts) they prevailed 21-10 over Seattle. There were many heroes for the team but QB Ben Roethlisberger gets a lot of credit for his cool demeanor, ability to play through pain and strong leadership skills. RB Willie Parker was a revelation, leading the team with 1,202 yards on the ground. Bettis was effective in his swan song and the defense ranked 4th overall and No.3 vs. the run. OLB Clark Haggans was effective as a new starter and SS Troy Polamalu emerged as a difference-maker. Pittsburgh is never busy shoppers in free agency and this year appears to be no different. They have had more losses than gains and will try to shore up the losses in the draft. Gone are WR Antwaan Randle El, DE Kimo von Oelhoffen (NYJ), FS Chris Hope (TEN), S Mike Logan, S Russell Stuvaints, QB Tommy Maddox and CB Willie Williams. DE Rodney Bailey (SEA) was signed to battle Brett Keisel to replace von Oelhoffen, while S Ryan Clark figures to be a backup safety at best. Receiver took a hit with the loss of Randle El but there aren't many top FA wideouts available. Pittsburgh just doesn't throw money at other team's free agents very often and look for them to be bargain shoppers after June 1. WR has emerged as one of the team's top needs after the loss of Randle El. With the 32nd pick the team could find a wideout but this isn't a deep draft for receivers. RB is also a need as Bettis has retired, Parker has started only one season and RB Duce Staley can't stay healthy. Expect the Steelers to draft a big RB in the early to mid rounds. A FS is also needed as a potential starter isn't on the roster. Some LB depth would be nice and the Steelers are famous for finding great LB value later in the draft. Pittsburgh has remained competitive despite losing FAs every year because they draft so well. Only one of their picks in the last 4 years is out of the NFL.
http://www.sport-betting-links.com
Sunday, May 14, 2006
Sports Betting
Sports Betting
Weekend Wagering PreviewTeams shooting both hoops and pucks will continue their treks through their respective league playoffs this weekend, as second-round postseason action carries on in both the NBA and NHL. Also on tap over the next few days are fresh series in baseball, the final regular-season contests in Arena Football, and both Nextel Cup and Formula 1 events. Two NBA series tied 1-1 take to the court on Friday night, as the Miami Heat take on the New Jersey Nets (-2) and the Phoenix Suns travel to Los Angeles to battle the Clippers (-3). The Nets bounced Miami in Game 1, but the Heat came back strong with a Game 2 victory. The Clippers pounded Phoenix 122-97 in Game 2 to even up that best-of-seven series. Each of those sets continues Sunday, with games in New Jersey and L.A. On Saturday the other two conference semi-finals get back to the action. The Detroit Pistons (-3.5) will be looking to make it three victories in a row over LeBron and the Cavaliers when those teams meet in Game 3 in Cleveland at 5:00 pm ET. In the night game, (8:00 pm ET) the Dallas Mavericks (-3) will be trying to grab a 2-1 series lead at home when they take on Tim Duncan and the defending-champion San Antonio Spurs. In the NHL playoffs, the Edmonton Oilers will be trying to tie up their second-round series with the San Jose Sharks on Friday night when those teams meet in Alberta. The Oilers got back into this series by pulling out a 3-2 victory in Game 3. Regardless of Friday's outcome, the Oilers and Sharks will play again in Game 5 on Sunday night. Two games are on tap for Saturday, with the Hurricanes and Devils playing Game 4 in New Jersey, and the Senators and Sabres playing Game 5 in Ottawa. The Canes hold a 3-0 edge in their best-of-seven set, and will be looking to knock out the Devils. The Sabres are up 3-1 on the Sens, and will be trying for the second time to end the series. A couple of baseball's hottest teams meet in a National League series this weekend when the Philadelphia Phillies travel to Cincinnati to play the Reds. The Phillies have shaken off a slow start to the season to move closer to the New York Mets atop the NL East division, while the Reds are hanging tough with the St. Louis Cardinals in the race for first in the NL Central. The Mets play the Milwaukee Brewers this weekend, while the Cards will be at home for a set against another hot squad, the Arizona Diamondbacks. In the other Senior Circuit action it'll be San Diego at the Cubs, Florida at Pittsburgh, Washington at Atlanta, Colorado at Houston, and the L.A. Dodgers at San Francisco. Over in the American League, the Cleveland Indians and Minnesota Twins will be looking to move up in the AL Central when they take on division rivals. The Tribe have a set with the surprising Tigers in Cleveland, while the Twins play host to the Chicago White Sox. The Central's worst team, the Kansas City Royals, will battle in Baltimore. Elsewhere on American League diamonds this weekend it's Oakland at the New York Yankees, Texas at Boston, Toronto at Tampa Bay, and Seattle at the L.A. Angels. The final games of the AFL's regular season will be played this weekend, as teams jockey for the final few playoff positions. On Friday night it's Austin at Orlando (-3), New York at Dallas (-7.5), Arizona at Colorado (-9), and Kansas City at Utah (-11). On Saturday it's Philadelphia at Georgia (-5), Chicago (-3) at Grand Rapids, Tampa Bay at Nashville (-2.5), Columbus at San Jose (-5.5), and Las Vegas at Los Angeles (-2.5). And on the track this weekend there are races on both the Nextel Cup and Formula 1 circuits. In NASCAR action Dale Earnhardt Jr. will be looking for his second straight victory when he races in the Dodge Charger 500 at Darlington Raceway under the lights on Saturday night. Meanwhile, Michael Schumacher, Fernando Alonso and the drivers of F1 will be racing in the Spanish Grand Prix at the Circuit de Catalunya on Sunday.
http://www.sport-betting-links.com
Weekend Wagering PreviewTeams shooting both hoops and pucks will continue their treks through their respective league playoffs this weekend, as second-round postseason action carries on in both the NBA and NHL. Also on tap over the next few days are fresh series in baseball, the final regular-season contests in Arena Football, and both Nextel Cup and Formula 1 events. Two NBA series tied 1-1 take to the court on Friday night, as the Miami Heat take on the New Jersey Nets (-2) and the Phoenix Suns travel to Los Angeles to battle the Clippers (-3). The Nets bounced Miami in Game 1, but the Heat came back strong with a Game 2 victory. The Clippers pounded Phoenix 122-97 in Game 2 to even up that best-of-seven series. Each of those sets continues Sunday, with games in New Jersey and L.A. On Saturday the other two conference semi-finals get back to the action. The Detroit Pistons (-3.5) will be looking to make it three victories in a row over LeBron and the Cavaliers when those teams meet in Game 3 in Cleveland at 5:00 pm ET. In the night game, (8:00 pm ET) the Dallas Mavericks (-3) will be trying to grab a 2-1 series lead at home when they take on Tim Duncan and the defending-champion San Antonio Spurs. In the NHL playoffs, the Edmonton Oilers will be trying to tie up their second-round series with the San Jose Sharks on Friday night when those teams meet in Alberta. The Oilers got back into this series by pulling out a 3-2 victory in Game 3. Regardless of Friday's outcome, the Oilers and Sharks will play again in Game 5 on Sunday night. Two games are on tap for Saturday, with the Hurricanes and Devils playing Game 4 in New Jersey, and the Senators and Sabres playing Game 5 in Ottawa. The Canes hold a 3-0 edge in their best-of-seven set, and will be looking to knock out the Devils. The Sabres are up 3-1 on the Sens, and will be trying for the second time to end the series. A couple of baseball's hottest teams meet in a National League series this weekend when the Philadelphia Phillies travel to Cincinnati to play the Reds. The Phillies have shaken off a slow start to the season to move closer to the New York Mets atop the NL East division, while the Reds are hanging tough with the St. Louis Cardinals in the race for first in the NL Central. The Mets play the Milwaukee Brewers this weekend, while the Cards will be at home for a set against another hot squad, the Arizona Diamondbacks. In the other Senior Circuit action it'll be San Diego at the Cubs, Florida at Pittsburgh, Washington at Atlanta, Colorado at Houston, and the L.A. Dodgers at San Francisco. Over in the American League, the Cleveland Indians and Minnesota Twins will be looking to move up in the AL Central when they take on division rivals. The Tribe have a set with the surprising Tigers in Cleveland, while the Twins play host to the Chicago White Sox. The Central's worst team, the Kansas City Royals, will battle in Baltimore. Elsewhere on American League diamonds this weekend it's Oakland at the New York Yankees, Texas at Boston, Toronto at Tampa Bay, and Seattle at the L.A. Angels. The final games of the AFL's regular season will be played this weekend, as teams jockey for the final few playoff positions. On Friday night it's Austin at Orlando (-3), New York at Dallas (-7.5), Arizona at Colorado (-9), and Kansas City at Utah (-11). On Saturday it's Philadelphia at Georgia (-5), Chicago (-3) at Grand Rapids, Tampa Bay at Nashville (-2.5), Columbus at San Jose (-5.5), and Las Vegas at Los Angeles (-2.5). And on the track this weekend there are races on both the Nextel Cup and Formula 1 circuits. In NASCAR action Dale Earnhardt Jr. will be looking for his second straight victory when he races in the Dodge Charger 500 at Darlington Raceway under the lights on Saturday night. Meanwhile, Michael Schumacher, Fernando Alonso and the drivers of F1 will be racing in the Spanish Grand Prix at the Circuit de Catalunya on Sunday.
http://www.sport-betting-links.com
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)