The Right Answer

Obama's Budget Proposal

2012-02-13T19:23:00.004-05:00

Consider it an early Valentines Day gift to the Spending Gods. (They're real, I've seen them. They look like women with no credit limit inside DSW)

Barack O'Spending fired for effect his latest and 4Th consecutive deficit inducing spending bill which tipped the scales at just over $3.8 Trillion, another new record he can stake his Presidency to. Bravo. The only problem with that is the Federal Government collects from the non-leeches in society just over $2.3 Trillion annually. Anyone got China's number? Maybe a phone produced there that we could borrow from them as well to call them with while we're at it? This is the same fiscally sound mind who promised he would reduce the federal deficit in half by the end of his first term. Instead, he's nearly doubled it. Mr. President, anything to say? "Oops. My bad y'all."

What were you doing on April 29, 2009? Do you know what the Senate was doing? They were passing a budget that day. They haven't done it since. That was 1020 days ago. Do you know what we've managed to accomplish since then? I do. Check it. $4.1 Trillion in new debt, more than all Presidents combined prior to Mr. Hope And Change. And an outstanding public debt of $15,240,174,635,409. No, that's not a typo. Yes, that's a real number. Yes, I can probably count that high, but by the time I finished, the Senate may be passing a new budget. Maybe. Anyone notice how much I love commas? I love commas like Obama loves spending your money. Write that down.

Do you know what the funniest, most depressing thing to come out of this whole budget chicanery is? The fact that the spin from the Liberally diseased media and the White House came before the reaction of the people. If you recall, last year Obama put forth another Zombie-esque budget that was defeated with a rare bi-partisan moment of clarity 97-0. Before I go any further, say that out loud. "97-0". The Democrats OWN the Senate! They can pass whatever they want and not one of Obama's boys and girls saw fit to attach their name and vote to that piece of "Obamatry". Maybe they aren't as dumb as we think? Whatevs. So out comes White House Chief of Staff Jack Lew, a clear example of Government Darwinism, saying that the budget can't pass without 60 votes in the Senate. That's news to me, mainly because I, you know, have read the Constitution which I would have assumed is a minimum requisite for any White House Chief of Staff but apparently not. You see, the Forefathers in all of their foresighted wisdom foresaw this. (How many times can you use "fore" as a root word in a sentence?) They included specific language that stated a budget cannot be filibustered and can be passed with a majority vote. That at a maximum can be 51 votes, not 60. Everyone google Jack Lew's picture, make an "L" with your free hand and place it over Mr. Lew's face. So you see, this isn't an issue of the Republicans playing silly little political games, its another example in a too long to keep track of list of political games that Obama and his in over their head colleagues have been trying to play with the American people. Sadly, a healthy sized portion of the country who for whatever reason chooses to get their "News" from the Mainstream Media will buy into that unstable logic. And that aforementioned media will do nothing to promote the truth because they've got posters and stickers and night lights of Obama kind of like teenage girls have of Justin Bieber. You can see how this could pose a problem promoting ethics and the truth.

My favorite trinket attached to Mr. I Want A Strong Military's budget is his caveat that the Pentagon may be able to forcefully cut 100,000 troops from the rolls. The problem with this, and I say it because I am a member of the Army and know all too well the bureaucratic impotency of the Civilian's involved, is that they will arbitrarily cut the wrong people. There are PLENTY of individuals the Army would be better without, as I am sure the other 4 branches of service would say in a moment of honesty. But putting trust in the Pentagon to actually identify those individuals is like asking Obama to pass a budget that makes fiscal sense. Do you see where I am going with this?

Rick Perry Says "Matae"

2012-01-19T18:59:00.004-05:00

Bloodsport reference. Chew on it.

Hours before the final Republican debate before the South Carolina primary, Texas Governor and one time front runner Rick Perry rang the bell to go home. No real surprise as he has failed to gain any traction despite other candidates dropping out and much steadier debate performances as of late. Upon announcing his candidacy ironically in the same city as he ended it, Perry air lifted himself to the top of the polls. New face gets all of the attention sort of thing. Then the problems started. People began to hear him talk in the debates reminding them of that other Texas Governor. He rightfully picked fights with the other presumed front runner Mitt Romney but to no avail. Stumbling in each debate and even enjoying a rather memorable mind lapse on which three branches of Government(Do we have to stop at 3?) he would eliminate were he to become the President, Perry found himself in a HALO free fall towards the basement in the polls with Michelle Bachmann.

Then information from the Perry camp leaked with little attention that he had gotten into the race just after back surgery and was having to take prescription pain killers that clearly had some impact on his debate performances and possibly some of his speeches(See New Hampshire. Quite entertaining, actually). But after his attempt at self-deprecation on the David Letterman show, t'was all a tad bit late. Too bad.

Perry had thrown together some solid debate showings recently, most notably this past Monday night in front of another South Carolina crowd. Even with Romney and Ron Paul having arguably their worst performances, Perry couldn't find a space on the elevator to move up.

So now what? Where do his supporters go given the fact that Perry himself endorsed Newt Gingrich? They clearly won't be dialing up the Romney campaign headquarters anytime soon. Given Perry's single digit polling numbers and Gingrich's ascent in the polls recently, if they take to Newt, that will put him ahead of Romney within the margin of error both in South Carolina and nationally with Florida up next. Perry was another conservative voice fighting for stage space with Rick Santorum and Gingrich to garner the Anti-Romney vote. It's only natural that these supporters will align themselves with Gingrich or Santorum. Despite the home state connection, I don't foresee any of them enlisting into the Ron Paul army.

Now the stage is set with tonight's debate for the Anti-Romney candidates to unload on Mitt. He already was dazed Monday night. If he stumbles again, he could very easily find himself knocked out by Gingrich or even Santorum who should be declared the rightful winner of the Iowa Caucus any minute now. If that happens, Romney will be in serious trouble going into Florida where he has already spent a ton of money on advertising.

As we have seen with all of these candidates in this primary season, no one is untouchable. We've been force fed by the Obama press corp that Romney has to be the nominee whether we like it or not on the GOP side. Clearly, the voters are beginning to broadcast their own message that they're big enough boys and girls that they can decide their nominee for themselves. Saturday's primary will be all about just that.

Write that down.

SOPA: Stop Online Piracy Act

2012-01-10T19:45:00.003-05:00

HR 3261. A byproduct of the illogical thinking of Lamar Smith(R-TX) and enjoyed by many across a bi-partisan spectrum. The Stop Online Piracy Act is the epitome of over regulation and over reaching by a Government under the guise of having your best interests in mind. What it actually is, is pandering to the Entertainment industry and everyone who has "I Hate Freedom of Speech" plastered on their Prius bumper.

SOPA was introduced under the premise of going after companies who fraudulently sell prescription drugs, overseas websites that illegally allow the hosting of pirated intellectual material and essentially expounding on everything the Feds forgot to include in the Digital Millennium Copyright Act of 1998, mostly because the likes of Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, Google, etc, didn't, you know, exist.

Surely some of you reading this are probably saying to yourselves "What's wrong with going after thieves?". Turns out, a lot actually. The chief power wielder in all of this would be none other than the immensely competent Attorney General, Eric Holder. He most well known for his classy involvement in the conception and attempted cover up of "Fast and Furious" which led to the death of ATF agent Brian Terry. Under this brilliant piece of legislation Eric Holder would have access to the ON/OFF switch of the Internet. But what he will tell you, much like Obama in his recent signing statement of the National Defense Authorization Act, he won't really use it. Riiiiight. Instead he will primarily use these 4 methods of enforcement:

1. Force ISPs to block access to Domain Name System servers to infringing foreign sites.(Put effort into keeping out illegal foreign Internet users but not illegal immigrants. Makes sense.)

2. Force search providers to make such sites that have been flagged as infringing undiscoverable. (Thinking what I'm thinking about what "flagged" means?)

3. Force payments processors to shut down the ability for infringing sites to make money.(Hooray Command Economy, even online!)

4. Force Internet advertisers to cease doing business with an infringing site.(Selective ethics.)

So who would feel the wrath of Holder? I know this will sound less than logical but in reality, any site charged by another site or user of having any material illegally anywhere on its site regardless of whether it is known or not. The burden of proof is actually on the company charged and not the petitioner or accuser. If you've seen any of the plethora of recent bad Law TV shows, you know that that is SSA backwards. Lawrence Tribe, Harvard Law guy, points out the unconstitutionality of that making reference to the fact that one page can wipe out literally tens of thousands of legitimate pages when it comes to copyrighted material. Sites would have to cease and desist within 5 days giving companies no time to realistically defend its reputation and good name.

Has anyone stopped to think about just what exactly the Internet is? What World Wide Web means? It is the most far reaching and effective form of free advertisement ever conceived. Each year it is improved upon and further utilized by its purveyors. With the advent of social networking, especially Twitter, everyone has instant access to anyone with an account. By CHOICE!
It isn't forced upon you by Government. You elect to pay a monthly fee in order to have access to the one last, largely unregulated (Not for much longer) place where the freedom of speech and expression is on full display. Sure, there is plenty of content that might be questionable to us or others. But we CHOOSE to access it all by ourselves without Mother Government telling us whether it is safe or not. We endure the consequences of those choices and are ultimately responsible for what takes place in a transaction with an online vendor or in a discussion about political theory with someone in a country 10,000 miles away who you otherwise would never have any chance of interacting with. Why screw that up? Because Hollywood is worried about whether or not Algeria is streaming Teen Wolf Too? Grow up.

There are some steps around what SOPA will bring. For instance, if a site is deemed "bad" by Big Brother, you will be blocked from accessing it by name. But not by IP address. Oops! This highlights my main contention with the authors of such poorly conceived legislation. Ignorance is not a defense for not knowing the law. It shouldn't be for those who are completely ignorant when it comes to the Internet and its usage. Yes, I know many members of Congress have Twitter accounts and pretend to actually use them when we all know its staffers. But the reality is the Internet is the playground of the young and the new generation of entrepreneurs. Not exactly a description of those roaming the halls of Congress. If criminals are always 1 step ahead of police, Internet savvy criminals will always be 12,000 steps ahead of the Federal Government. You go after the companies, you don't arbitrarily deny access to hundreds of millions of people because you don't agree with an extended movie preview being hosted on some site in the Congo.

Any of these companies ring a bell? Facebook, Google, eBay/PayPal, Foursquare, Kaspersky, Reddit, Mozilla, Tumblr, Twitter, Yahoo, Scribd, Quora, Github, Square, AOL. That's a Who's Who of Tech companies that have come out against SOPA. Yahoo has already left the US Chamber of Commerce in protest with more threatening and many more lesser known companies coming out against it. Think of the economic impact this will have on not just these sites but to all of the consumers who go online. It's a giant snow ball teetering at the top of the mountain with Lamar Smith and company anxiously trying to push it over. Thankfully, there are some members in Congress still exhibiting some semblance of rational thought. Darrell E. Issa(R-CA) has logically proposed a plan for a more strict Copyright enforcement process. He has said that this is an issue that calls for "patches, not a blanket". That's the right answer.

If SOPA is allowed to pass, we will finally catch China and earn the title of The Next Great De-indexer of Websites and a co-sponsor of the Great Firewall. Freedom of speech be damned.

The Right Answer Update

2011-12-29T18:53:00.005-05:00

Top O' the evening to you Theorists! Our "Theory" will now be shifting to the political version of what runs through my mind constantly. This space is an extension of what you find me unleashing on Twitter at @EricBandazewski. Reason? I've done all that I've wanted to in terms of the sports arena, though I will continue to bring some insight into that spectrum from time to time as I am still covering the Orlando Magic on the sports side of the house on Blog Talk Radio. And, once football season returns next year I will bring back the Game Theory picks but only as a brief distraction from the more pertinent items that occupy this space. Money will always be provided to you Theorists by me as it has for the past 5 years.

Starting in January will be the debut of The Right Answer radio show on Blog Talk Radio. This is where I've steered myself over the past 16 months and I'm finally in a position to deliver in that format the way I've envisioned. I hope you'll find it just as entertaining as you do the 140 character version I've displayed on Twitter.

With those aforementioned items out of the way, Happy New Year! I'll see you soon right here. Join me. Do it.

Game Theory NFL Picks Week 16

2011-12-24T12:25:00.001-05:00

Short and sweet Theorists, Christmas is upon us and here's 5 games to cover all of your holiday expenses. Prepare to copy:

#Falcons +7

#Broncos -2

#Giants +3

#Rams + 15

#Bears + 13

Like those hash tags Theorists? I lifted them from my Twitter account which you should follow at: @EricBandazewski

GO GET PAID!!(I Will)

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Game Theory NCAA and NFL Picks Week 15

2011-12-14T20:25:00.004-05:00

Welcome back Theorists. I know we took a posting week off last week but if you follow me on Twitter, as you should, @EricBandazewski, you would have gotten 4 games from me. Seattle, Indianapolis, San Francisco and Minnesota. 3 of the 4 did what they were supposed to lifting us up to 60-48 ATS on the year. Hello money!

Now back to our regularly scheduled handicapping:

I don't quite care for the NCAA bowl season. Its filled with teams that either could care less about being there or those who are overzealous about playing in a game with 12,000 people watching put on by some random corporate sponsor that none of the players involved have ever heard of. With that said, I figured it my handicapping duty to provide you with the only game that matters, the Naty title game, and one more just because the line looks too good to pass up.

Michigan -2 Vs Virginia Tech- Michigan is a significantly better defensive team than last year as evidenced by their weekly performances. The offense took a step back before finding some life mid-season as the coaching staff adjusted to who exactly Denard Robinson is as a QB. They also are coming into this remembering the beating they took against Mississippi State last year in the Dumpster Bowl. This is the final chance for these seniors to play and coming off of the Ohio State win, they feel they owe the fans and alumni a Bowl win. And a nice pay check that comes with it. Virginia Tech is what they always are. Well coached but suffering of let downs to lesser opponents or playing down to their opposition. They don't have the speed Michigan has and will struggle to keep Robinson out of the end zone. I like Michigan comfortably.

LSU Pick 'em Vs Alabama- LSU already proved they were the better team and nothing tells me they won't do it again with the extra prep time allotted to the coaching staff. Nick Saban has a great defensive team but his offensive ineptitude at the QB position when it counts will again cost him this victory. We're not even talking about points at this juncture, it's a simple win or lose proposition. With Jordan Jefferson firmly back up to speed at QB, coupled with the presence of The Honey Badger, I don't see Alabama being able to keep up in this one come the second half. LSU is your Naty title winner. Enjoy

===============BREAK NFL OPORD TO FOLLOW======================

St. Louis +6 Vs Cincinnati - I don't think now is the time by any means for the Rams to plan on winning a game, but aiming for respectability should be bantered about in team meetings. Bengals have hit a rough spot lately losing some tough games. The Rams have lost pretty much every kind of way all season. Still, at home in the dome should be enough to keep the Rams in it and the game within a touchdown as they collect another loss but a win for us.

New England -6 At Denver- Two extended winning streaks on the line here. I know first hand now the impact of Tim Tebow in games late that are within play. The problem is he has been playing equally inept offenses in terms of scoring over much of that streak which has afforded them just enough opportunity at the end of games to do what he does. Win. Now in come a hot Patriots offense with Tom Brady and Rob Gronkowski. The Broncos have no one in the secondary who can come close to winning that match up and you will see a healthy dose of Tight End servings from Brady. The Patriots secondary is a dumpster fire but that is generally on display against passers who are going down the field. The Broncos take their shots but not enough and unless John Fox has decided this is the game to let Tebow put it up 30 times, I don't see how the Broncos can keep the score close enough for the requisite Tebow game winning drive. Patriots healthily.

Oakland +1 Vs Detroit- Never has a team needed a home game as much as the Raiders. Lions get Suh back but he will bear watching early on as he settles back into his role. The Lions defense has been pretty awful without him surrendering a ton of points and how they play against Michael Bush and the power run game of the Raiders will be of consequence. The Lions secondary is not good and the Raiders employ several speedy receiving threats that should be able to make some plays provided Carson Palmer throws them the ball and not the Lions. I think the Raiders get this win as they should move into a first place tie with the Broncos as they make a final playoff push.

Bears -3 Vs Seattle- Bears living off last seasons playoff dominance of the Seahawks
should boast well for a defensive team that has got to find a way to play an entire game. The Birds on the road in a hostile environment with less than favorable weather is not good for Tavaris Jackson but could be for Marshawn Lynch who is playing like a guy that wants a contract. That plays into the Bears strength as stopping the run is still what they do best. This will shift the pressure to Jackson to make plays down field and I don't see that happening as the Bears secondary should be able to capitalize on some of the Pete Carrol gambles. Plus God will be busy watching Tim Tebow. I know Caleb Hanie is still playing quarterback but this is his 4th start. Now or never time for him and the Bears playoff hopes. Bears by 6.

GO GET PAID!!(I will)

Catch the Vegas Takedown Show Thursday nights at 11pm Eastern at www.blogtalkradio.com/gametheory

Do it.

OUTNUMBERED: Chronicles of a Manhattan Conservative by Jedediah Bila

2011-12-13T20:00:00.004-05:00

Let me start by prefacing my two requisites for a good "politically" themed book. First, don't give me death by footnote. I hate spending an equal amount of time with the lapper open and Google'n every point to make sure you and the editor aren't trying to make me fall for the old banana in the tailpipe. And second, don't make me look forward to the ending. Jedediah Bila crushed it. I'm genuinely disappointed that the book actually wasn't longer. But I digress...

She opens with a touching, perfectionist tale of her as an editorial advice seeking teen from her Grandfather, who encourages her to make the reader "walk those steps with you, open my eyes, and look around". Done, done and done. Outnumbered brings to us her day to day encounters with an expansive Liberal horde of co-workers, students, friends, friends who become former friends, and just about anyone else one might possibly interact with while living in the bastion of diversity that is New York City spanning a 6 month elapse leading up to and after the election of Barack Hussein Obama.

The meetings of chance and circumstance border on the hilariously shallow, like a friend not "tolerating" her Facebook posts to the inspiring such as a tutoring session with a lad clearly bright enough to think on his own but who had just not been urged to do so. She draws an excellent analogy of wealth redistribution in a context that he could understand and grasp. And while most of us would continue to bang home a point, she did what we really should do in these situations; let people marinate with the new ingredients you've added to their pre-packaged misconceptions.
You never know what ideological meal they may create.

It's enjoyable to read as the parallels are depicted between what goes into the thought process of Liberals and Conservatives. The sense of entitlement, the need to have someone make personal decisions for us that we can easily make for ourselves, the complete disregard for certain rights, freedoms and tolerances they claim to champion. Apples and airplanes indeed.

There were times I found myself wanting her to stand up and speak out more, wondering what I would do if that situation were presented. But I thought back to the books title and arrived at the conclusion I think that can best be taken from reading it: This was a journey as much for her as it is for the readers and that everyone, conservatives and liberals alike need to research more on their own. The media isn't your brain. You still control that and should fill it with as much information to challenge your position as much as you do to support it.

Three things I would have liked to have seen contained in the book:

1. Some pictures of the napkins, loose-leaf(such a teacher word)writings, etc that she captured these encounters on. That would have been a nice touch.

2. She talks of growing up in Staten Island but makes no mention of her favorite Wu-Tang Clan member. Everyone has one. Everyone.

3. Poppy Bila's marinara recipe. You can't hype it without giving us proof. We're
entitled to it!

Go get the book Theorists. Do it.

Game Theory Recap Week 13

2011-12-10T20:52:00.002-05:00

4-4 in a completely underwhelming performance bringing us to 57-47 overall. Due to some rather unbelieveable technical difficulties, I am taking this entire week off. Don't cry for me Argentina.

Things are changing around here. A lot. See you next week.

Game Theory NCAA and NFL Picks Week 13

2011-11-30T20:29:00.002-05:00

Back to bringing 8 games to the money counting party Theorists. You do like to count money, don't you? Prepare to copy:

West Virginia -1 At USF- South Florida suffers from Tiny Heart syndrome, an affliction that has affected every college football program in the state of Florida this season. USF is playing for a Bowl game that they will have zero interest in dressing for while West Virginia has BCS hopes on the line. USF has been a dumpster fire of a team ATS and well, all year really and they are down their starting QB. Hello money and bye bye season. It shouldn't take much more than the first Mountaineer possession for us to be covering.

UCLA +33 Vs Oregon- First ever Pac Whatever title game featuring two coaching careers headed in slightly different directions. While both managed to get their teams to this "historic" meeting, only one will be employed by his school at the end of it. Rick Neuheisel has been an abject pavement fire since he got the job. How he has lasted this long is beyond me. With that said, if there is anything I know about emotional college kids it's that these types of events tend to motivate them to give just a little more. By no means are they winning this game but I don't think they let their soon to be former coach get embarrassed. Besides, they did that last week against USC. Bruins lose by 31 instead.

Southern Miss +14 At Houston- This is the game Houston needs to blow the doors off of their opponent in order to impress the at large selection honks at the BCS. The only problem is that Southern Miss is the one team that Houston hates because they never have their way with them. Southern Miss has let down in a few spots this season, notably on the road to UAB but this is a team that would like nothing more than to spoil the after game part of the Cougars who are being told they have nothing left to play for in Conference USA. I'm not saying Houston loses with Case Keenum, I'm just saying I'll take 2 touchdowns and feel good. I'll feel even better after I take money from Vegas, as you should.

New Mexico +52 at Boise State- Because Boise's season has been over for a while and they hate covering these giant numbers. Why they even show up to play is pointless. I've reevaluated my stance on Boise as I had them picked to play in the BCS title game before they committed seasonal suicide. This program opted to NOT join the Pac Whatever to cupcake themselves into the exact position Houston is in. While it's not giving you a BCS title game, it's giving you the pay check. Looks like they left the confectionery items in the oven too long and lost out on that to chase their title dream in the Big East. I question their heart really at this point. Who cares about beating New Mexico?

Oklahoma +4 At Oklahoma State- The Sooners are going to beer bottle the Cowboys and their dwindling BCS dreams. I love picking against teams that have extra time to reflect on how they self imploded as the Cowboys have done, and I especially like betting on the rival underdog who gets to play spoiler. Not the usual role for the Sooners but they will do that in this game. Even if they don't, they aren't losing by more than 4 points. Just not happening. Write that down. Even though I already did.

===============BREAK NFL OPORD TO FOLLOW======================

Eagles -3 At Seattle- I absolutely love this game. I don't say that much and maybe for good reason because it just sounds kind of lame now that I voice it out loud....but with all of that said, how can you not like the Eagles offensive weapons(weird saying that actually)and their opportunity to earn some salary against the Seahawks? Birds will be sans Sidney Rice for the rest of the year and really have no reliable system of moving the ball forward when they are in possession of it. I know its the 12th Man and Seattle is a difficult environment to play in but I'm willing to bet(duh, it's what we do here) that Coach Reid remembers who LeSean McCoy is and allows him to have a career day. Eagles HUGE.

Chicago -7 Vs Kansas City- This is a number that I would have felt very uncomfortable with at half time of last weeks game for the Bears with the Raiders. Caleb Hanie in the second half was a guy who looks years beyond Tyler Palko in Kansas City and there's no way Kyle Orton is ready yet to contribute positively outside of maybe telling Palko the names of the guys on the Bears defense. Defense just happens to be the key here. Palko is not Carson Palmer, he who failed to find the end zone against Chicago opting instead for Sebastian Janikowski to write some more kicking records. The Bears defense should generate enough turnovers to see a late game insertion of Orton just as Marion Barber is running out the clock because Matt Forte is too tired after running for some many yards to do it himself. Bears by double digits.

New England -20 Vs Indianapolis- I know this goes against my theory of taking massive spreads like this in the NFL but that applies to fully complete and healthy teams. The Colts are a joke and I'll make a small play every game the rest of the way like I said weeks back knowing that it's free money because they will never cover. Ever. Who needs reasoning more than Dan Orlovsky now being tried again at QB? Great idea.

GO GET PAID!!(We will)

Catch the Vegas Takedown Show Thursday night at 11pm Eastern at www.blogtalkradio.com/gametheory or visit said site any time for the podcast.

Game Theory Recap Week 12

2011-11-30T20:25:00.002-05:00

Sustained profitability has returned Theorists with a 5-3 tally bringing us up to 53-43 on the season and putting some space between the left and right columns of that total. That's the right answer.

Game Theory NCAA and NFL Picks Week 12

2011-11-25T21:08:00.002-05:00

I hope everyone's account is still stuffed from that Thanksgiving day cash grab. A few more games to please your fiscal palate, if you will. And I will. Prepare to copy:

Wyoming +34 At Boise State- Give me that money Vegas! Boise cashed their season in a long time ago and they have zero desire to cover big numbers anymore for style points because, well, it doesn't matter. Wyoming has been a pretty nice cover story against the number while Boise's only knowledge of the spread is their offense. Fine with me. Sleep walk to another win while I sleep walk to the cash cage. Thanks Vegas.

Clemson +4 At South Carolina- I'm back on the Clemson money train one last time for the biggest game of their season that they ruined weeks ago. South Carolina is just inconsistent enough to let you down when you most expect them to. Like on Saturday. Clemson has gotten the last 2 match ups with lesser talent against Steve Spurrier's bunch and I think they will make it 3 in a row with the cover and win. Look for the Ole' Ball Coach to toss his visor and his quarterback equal distances.

Penn State +15 At Wisconsin- Penn State remains an offensively challenged team that still in the back of their minds refuses to quit in games they've easily should have been blown out, most recently to Nebraska. Wisconsin has the better QB and the much better coaching staff at this point seeing as they didn't have to turn theirs over. But something about the defense of the Nittany Lions makes me believe they can keep this close and we already have seen what happens to a Wisconsin team that comes out flat. I think they do it again and struggle all day to put Penn State away.

===============BREAK NFL OPORD TO FOLLOW======================

Carolina -3 At Indianapolis- Everything numerically (believe it or not) is telling me to take the Colts. But I cannot go against my gut and belief that the Colts should be double digit under dogs no matter who they are playing regardless of venue. Panthers may not be able to stop anyone but they can score a ton of points and I think they should be able to do that at will as no one on the Colts defense is going to be able to get to Cam Newton. He's struggled some lately, perhaps face planting into that rookie wall, but what better way to break through it then to play long toss with Steve Smith on a fast surface.

Philly +4 Vs New England- Vince "Want Me To Cover?" Young is back and doing what he always does; winning us money Theorists. The Eagles are going to be sans Vick and Maclin again most likely but for some reason, that's probably a good thing as this team seems to respond only to adversity. New England has been cruising a long and coming off of a beating of the Chiefs and might be feeling themselves a tad too much. I think New England pulls it out late but not before depositing some money into our accounts on the way out of the Linc.

GO GET PAID(Again.I will!)

Game Theory Turkey Day Picks

2011-11-24T10:45:00.003-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving Theorists! Allow me to shove a few extra helpings of monetary stuffing your way before the full course financial menu this weekend is served. Prepare to copy:

Green Bay -6 At Detroit- Detroit has everything to play for here. First meaningful game on this day in years but that doesn't change the fact that they are lining up against the Green Bay Packers. Both defenses can be scored on but the secondary of Green Bay still employs a future Hall of Famer. Detroit, employs a patch work of cast offs that rely on their front four getting pressure to cover for their ineffectiveness. Kevin Smith could be the key player in this game for the Lions. If the Packers can't shut him down, this may go the wrong way for us. I think in a shoot out, Green Bay makes more plays at the end.

Miami +8 At Dallas- Both teams trending in the right direction but I really like how Matt Moore and Reggie Bush have played over the past month. I don't think the road environment will be much of a distraction as it's a big atmosphere for both teams playing on this day. Dallas' defense has been suspect, especially in Washington last week and finding a way to cover Brandon Marshall will be a continuation of the secondary issues Dallas always seems to have. Miami like as I've said before has been playing great on defense. I think they can force Tony Romo into a couple of mistakes and keep this one within the margin of error.

Baltimore -3 Vs San Francisco- Harbaugh Bowl gets under way tonight and I think this is going to be the one blowout of the day. Alex Smith has played remarkably well all year but this is the type of game where he is going to have to make more than one big play and I don't think he can do it. Both defenses are superb and the Niners have been great against a variety of opponents. Stopping Ray Rice is going to be a difficult task and he can hit from any where on the field. The Niners don't have a play maker like that, relying on consistency and not turning the ball over. Baltimore is going to take it away and I see an Ed Reed pick 6 on the horizon. Ravens big.

GO GET PAID!!(And go eat. I will)

Game Theory Recap Week 11

2011-11-24T09:51:00.003-05:00

Wow, so that's what it's like to be profitable again! We should do this more often, yes? 5-2 against the number bringing the season tally to 48-40 on the year and something to be thankful for. More money to make Theorists starting with today's slate of games which I will have up for you shortly. Full weekend of picks will be up tomorrow night. No Vegas Takedown Show this week due to Thanksgiving. Some of you may be thankful for that. Back on the air next week.

Game Theory NCAA and NFL Picks Week 11

2011-11-16T20:12:00.003-05:00

I'm all out of witty intro's much like I'm out of cash after last week. Let's try this again:

Oklahoma State -27 At Iowa State- OK State has been an unbelievable team against the spread this season and I think that will hold serve here as their offense is unstoppable and they have too much to play for to suffer a let down. You could argue they may get caught looking ahead to their match up with Oklahoma but.....that makes no sense because it's not for 2 more weeks. Cyclones get typhooned, hurricaned, and Tsunami'd all in one.

Georgia Tech -10 At Duke- This game has been a boat race for pretty much ever. Duke doesn't have the athletes to stop the run heavy attack of Georgia Tech and they will wear down and out. Anyone know who draws more fans, the Duke Mens Basketball team or the the football version of a scholarship stocked squad? I'm guessing that would be a more intriguing competition than the one taking place on the field. Yellow Jackets easy.

LSU -29 At Ole Miss- UH-OH! Looks like Vegas messed up as this line just keeps going up then back down again on Bodog(Unofficial official Game Theory approved site. I admit I thought Ole Miss might have just enough heart to beat what essentially was a D2 team parading as a D1 squad but research confirms that actually they are totally devoid of the blood pumping organ. LSU shouldn't break a sweat getting to 40. Ole Miss will probably score on themselves.

BYU -23 Vs New Mexico State- BYU has gotten consistently better each game they've played and are going to finish strong under Bronco Mendenhall. They might even win their conference championship if they were still apart of one. Not sure how the Bowl selection wacko's will look at BYU when it comes time for selection but whoever they play will probably have a bad day. Much like New Mexico State will. Hopefully their flight gets canceled. For them I mean, not for us.

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Miami -1 Vs Buffalo- Has anyone watched the Miami offense lately? Reggie Bush looks like a running back, Matt Moore looks like a quarterback and the defense suddenly remembers that they actually are pretty good. I mean the head coach is still 99% out the door but the Dolphins finally look like a team that can keep getting a few more wins, especially at home against the Bills who are heading in the opposite direction. Buffalo desperately need this one to get back into the division race but I don't think the Dolphins care enough to oblige them of that request. Miami covers nicely.

Broncos +7 Vs Jets- The enchantment that is Tim Tebow will be on full display for all of his future kingdom to witness Thursday night. We should be well on our way to profiting from his greatness by the time we go on the air. Enough with that chicanery. Tebow may have completed 2 passes last week in a win but last time I checked, a W is a W. The Jets are just not that good and it all comes down to one man: Mark Sanchez. I've been saying since he was drafted that he just wasn't going to be deserving of all the adulation that would be thrust upon him. Both of these guys may have been reaches in the first round, but one is expected to win a Super Bowl, the other is expected to fail. One is too pensive at the wrong time, the other one is a General in God's Army! Write that down. Again, enough with the chicanery. I have been wrong about QB's before, most recently with Cam Newton, but I know a guy who inspires others around him when I see it. And Mark Sanchez doesn't do that.

New England -12 Vs Kansas City- Remember when the Chiefs were starting to make everyone feel good again? Then Matt Cassell decided to miss the rest of the season and join his buddy Jamaal Charles. It's over Chiefs fans. Get ready for a long 3 hours, might end up being 4 with all of the stoppage in play from the Patriots scoring again. And again. And again.

Bye Week Vs Colts- Colts have no shot. Why have a bye week when you can have a bye season? Bye week rolls.

Go Get Paid!!(I'm trying. Really)

Listen to the Vegas Takedown Show Thursday nights at 11pm Eastern at www.blogtalkradio.com/gametheory

Game Theory Recap Week 10

2011-11-16T20:11:00.004-05:00

A 3-5 ATS effort proving that this is in fact, a non-profit organization that I'm running here bringing me to a laughable 43-38 against the number this year. Stand by while I look for a bottle of Scotch and a hand gun.

Game Theory NCAA and NFL Picks Week 10

2011-11-09T21:13:00.002-05:00

Oh don't you know, that's the sound of the money, going in my bank! YEA-EEE-YEA! Nice little Cadence remix for you. For those of you who never saw Cadence, grow up, and try it sometime. Money to make Theorists, prepare to copy:

Nebraska -3 At Penn State- Karma will be on full display. Not because of anything the Penn State players have done but because of the immense distraction for those responsible for the players. Players don't prepare or coach themselves. No way has that been effectively done this week. Plus, how quickly will they try and forget that this is their senior day? Great way to go out; pummeled at home in front of only the most ardent Joe Paterno supporters. Who should all have their mental capacity verified. From a football stand point, Nebraska has played some impressive games recently and they aren't folding the tents after all in their inaugural Big Ten season. Huskers by 10.

Ole Miss +2 Vs Louisiana Tech- What a dumpster fire of a season Mississippi is having. Still with all of that said and accounted for, they can't lose at home to Louisiana Tech, can they? Brandon Bolden and Jeff Scott I think are good enough on the ground to pull this out. La Tech supporters can go back to studying how to repair small gasoline engines.

Michigan -1 At Illinois- Great conference let down for Michigan last week against Iowa proving they aren't quite ready to compete for the Big Ten title but we've known forever that Illinois isn't. Classic Game Theology here, Better Coach + Better QB = W. Michigan has them in Hoke and Robinson and defensively they are still doing a great job. Offense has to quit making mistakes and getting points inside red zone. Last season, this game saw 132 points betwixt the two of them, I don't think we see that again but in a Pick Em' type of scenario, I like the Wolverines.

Boise State -14 Vs TCU- Last chance for style points and a win that kind of, sort of, might matter. Kellen Moore is almost expected at this point to play great but doesn't seem to me like there is anything he can do to garner Heisman support. A great game here might do that as TCU has replaced Andy Dalton respectively but attrition has still taken its toll on a team that I think will struggle to stay in this game on the blue turf. Boise cruises.

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Chicago -1 Vs Detroit- Must win game for the Bears and their playoff aspirations. They get the team they need to run down at home coming off of a huge road win. Chance usually for a let down but not here with the stakes so high. What is Detroit's signature win? The Bears at their place. Time to return the favor. I think this is where the Lions get further exposed. No running game and spotty secondary and offensive line play away from Ford Field. Forte in a prominent role should be able to neutralize the Lions front four and get to the second level like he traditionally has done against Detroit. Bears easy.

Atlanta +1 Vs New Orleans- Classic scenario of the home team gets the nod. Saints have fallen back to Earth after that Rams debacle. They aren't superhuman and have a ton of holes like every team in the NFL. I said last week, the Falcons are improving week to week and should feel extremely confident at home against a division rival they must beat, especially if they want to remain in the playoff chase with so many other important conference match ups taking place. I like Matt Ryan to make enough plays and for Michael Turner to play a well deserved role in keeping Drew Brees on the sidelines.

Bengals +3 Vs Steelers- I don't really buy the Steelers. They don't scare anyone, especially after losing two games in the division to the Ravens already. The Bengals are a team led by Green and Dalton who have no history against the Steelers to be wary of. These guys play very well in the moment and I think that continues here as they will get the win at home. A lot of people are looking for the Bengals to fade now with their division games coming at them but I am not of that opinion. I think the Steelers can be beaten, especially on the road. Defensively, the fine police are out again after the Steelers which will lead to hesitancy. Meanwhile, the Bengals have been great against the run and I still think that the key to beating the Steelers is keeping the ball in Roethlisberger's hand.

Bills +6 At Dallas- I am not off the Bills wagon yet. Dallas is a mess, they don't know what they are and struggle from one week to the next. Bills have to bounce back in a hurry after going down at home to the Jets, a game they couldn't lose. But the season isn't lost and this is an opportunity for the Bills to maintain their divisional standing as the other two they share it with will be playing each other. Cowboys are chasing down the Giants and I really don't think they have a shot at doing that. DeMarco Murray has been a pleasant surprise for them but despite that, it's not translating to points. They are an erratic offense and the Bills are just a better team at this point despite lesser talent overall.

GO GET PAID!!(I Will)

Listen to the Vegas Takedown Show Thursday nights at 11pm Eastern at www.blogtalkradio.com/gametheory

Game Theory Recap Week 9

2011-11-09T21:11:00.003-05:00

A profitable but otherwise mediocre 4-3 effort against the number bringing us to 40-33 on the year. Now would be a good week to remedy this span of unacceptable I'm in. Stand by.

Game Theory NCAA and NFL Picks Week 9

2011-11-02T19:18:00.003-04:00

Time to make amends for my less than impressive performance last week. Finally a big time college game to invest in and some better NFL games. Enough small talk, let's get to the big money. Prepare to copy:

Ohio +5 Vs Temple- Primetime televised Home Dog Theory on display here. Give me the points, any points for a home underdog on Naty TV. Ohio has some pretty good weapons in QB Tyler Tettleton and 2 quality running backs both grabbing a first down essentially every 2 carries. Also, while Temple's defense is pretty good in not allowing points, let's not pretend its against BCS juggernauts every week. Also, the past 2 seasons have seen Ohio grab victories. Same players for the most part, at home and getting points. I like.

LSU +5 At Alabama- Early Naty title game here between the clear two best teams in the country. There is too much that is a wash though. Both coaches have Naty titles to their credit, both have elite defenses, both know how to play in big games and how to beat big time opponents. Trent Richardson has to be stopped and I think LSU has the defense to pull that off. Aside from that, the QB's are going to have to make plays. AJ McArron is a nice player but he is a sophomore playing in the biggest game of his career. He is efficient but he hasn't played a defense like this one. On the other side, Jarret Lee has been a part of and seen every environment a college atmosphere can provide. I don't think its going to be too big for him and he doesn't turn the ball over. Last possession, FG type of game here I think. Loser will be pissed at the end of the year.

Texas Tech +15 At Texas- Tommy Tubberville has the Red Raiders playing up to their opponent instead of down. They now know they can go into hostile territory and get a win as evidenced by their drubbing of Oklahoma. Can they do it to another traditional Big 12 power on the road? I don't know, but I do that this Texas team is not the type to make Texas backers feel confident. Lot of youth and mistakes week in and week out and inviting a team putting up almost 400 yards in the air per game against a weak secondary is usually a recipe for coverage. I'll take Tech to make the Longhorns sweat it out.

SMU -26 Vs Tulane- Tulane has been an absolute tire fire against the spread and in conference play for quite some time now. They haven't been competitive on the road and I don't see that being any different here. June Jones should be able to bring his other playbook to the stadium, the one full of plays to run when you're up by 40. SMU rolls.

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Atlanta -7 At Indianapolis- What exactly have the Colts proven to deserve to be within double digits of any team at this point? Atlanta has seemingly fixed their slow start with some impressive efforts recently and has had a bye week to shore up some other issues. I really think the Colts should just forfeit from here on out. It's not happening. With that said, Colts probably win. But it's too late, my bet has been placed on Atlanta, them by a lot.

Bills -1 Vs Jets- Pick em' scenario essentially here for the Bills. They handled their business at home last week establishing themselves as the division front runner and tie breaker holder over the Patriots. Pats have issues, Jets have issues, Bills are the most balanced and complete team. Didn't think you would be saying that halfway through the season did you? Mark Sanchez gets the attention, Ryan Fitzpatrick gets the job done. I'll take the Hah'vad guy any day. And Fred Jackson. Even though his wife hates drafting him in Fanty. Bills get it done.

Bears +8 at Philly- Number may go higher as the hype machine has been reset into the "ON" position. Look at history here: Bears have always owned Michael Vick. They did when he was in Atlanta and they shut down Vick last season for about 50 minutes of that game when it was out of hand before Vick starting to stack some numbers. Lovie Smith knows how to contain Vick. My only concern is the play of the safeties still and limiting Maclin and Jackson from getting deep. The Bears have found their defensive identity the past 2 games though and are coming off of a bye at the right time. Offensively, they should have success against a more break than don't bend defense of the Eagles. I look for a close contest here with Matt Forte further driving up the cost of doing business for Jerry Angelo and the Bears.

GO GET PAID!!(We Will)

Listen to the Vegas Takedown Show Thursday Nights at 11pm Eastern at www.blogtalkradio.com/gametheory. Or just download it whenever you want.

Game Theory Recap Week 8

2011-11-02T19:15:00.002-04:00

I'd like to thank everyone not named Michigan in my college football picks for not showing up. An unflattering, unhealthy 3-4 in a fight against the number Theorists bringing us to 36-30 on the year. I'm embarrassed. A winning NFL Sunday didn't make me feel any better about letting my readership down.

Game Theory NCAA and NFL Picks Week 8

2011-10-26T20:39:00.002-04:00

Hey Vegas....You ah, have something you want to tell me? Too bad, because we are here to further our pillaging of your cash cage in an effort to redistribute it to my followers and readership. Write that down. And with that said Theorists, prepare to copy:

Clemson -4 At Georgia Tech- No need to hop off of the Clemson money train yet Theorists. 5-0 ATS in their last 5, meanwhile, Georgia Tech is heading the opposite way with 3 straight ATS losses. In addition to that solid logic, the Yellow Jackets hate to cover at home when playing the Tigers, 1-5 against the number in their past 6 contests. I've said this all season, there were 2 games left on Clemson's schedule that they had to hurdle over for serious consideration at the end of the year for BCS Naty title bid: This one and South Carolina to close out the regular season calendar. Clemson has to know this and they also have to know that there is no time for them to sleep walk through this one as they did with Maryland. Tech won't let them back in quite so easily should they fall behind. I don't think they do. Tech will have to pass at some point, and well, they can't.

Michigan State +4 At Nebraska- Why are the Cornhuskers favored when they have a turnover waiting to happen quarterbacking their team in Taylor Martinez? He's not half the offensive threat that Denard Robinson is and Sparty defended him amazingly after their opening drive. Proving that they could contain him convinces me that they can do it against a worse decision maker like Martinez. Also lacking of late is the Nebraska defense and Kirk Cousins of M State has decided he wants to be drafted after all. I still think a diverse offense can get points against the Spartan defense but nothing says one dimensional like the offensive attack of Nebraska. I like Sparty.

Michigan -14 Vs Purdue- Purdon't getting 2 touchdowns but they're going to need a lot more than that. Michigan has improved dramatically defensively under Bradie Hoke and the Boilermakers don't do a damn thing good when they have the ball in their possession. They also are a bad ATS team when playing Michigan. They've gotten some wins in recent years but those were the rebuilding teams under Richie Rod. Purdue has reclaimed their doormat status in the Big Ten(12) and a blood letting should take place come Saturday. Michigan by 20.

Wisconsin -7 At Ohio State- The Badgers are going to blow the doors off of the Buckeyes. Very angry Wisconsin team that has to put a game behind them where they took a team lightly and left with an L. They know they can't do that with Ohio State or it could happen again. Russell Wilson won't let it happen. Ohio State doesn't even have a QB and is so badly matched personnel wise with Wisconsin that I feel this spread should be twice what it is. It will look that way once the final seconds tick off. Badgers Big.

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Carolina -3 Vs Minnesota- Rookie QB battle here as Ponder has found his way onto the field but is still a few games behind Cam Newton in terms of development. Panthers with a shot to start stacking some wins now as they know the WR corps of the Vikings is a joke and really they need to focus on Peterson in the backfield. They have to let Ponder try and beat them. Newton has the mobility to cause all sorts of problems for a Vikings defense that is already in off-season mode. Their coach might as well get his resume ready because he's pretty much out of a job comes seasons end, if not sooner. Might be the Mike Singletary curse. They brought him on, and well, they're a dumpster fire. Panthers by a touchdown.

Buffalo -6 Vs Redskins- Bills will be well rested and the Redskins are still in QB limbo. Beck wasn't much of an improvement over Grossman and they lost a game they needed to win to stay ahead in their division. Wheels might be starting to come off for them , whereas the Bills are in control of their playoff aspirations still. Division rival Patriots have a tough road contest and the Bills have a chance to pull into the division lead with a win and Pats loss based on the tie breaker. I think the Bills get a big win here as they are too consistent on offense to suffer any debilitating let down at home. Bills by 10.

Bengals -3 at Seattle- Hawks need Tarvaris Jackson bad. Who would have thought I'd say that? But it's true. They are a team desperately in need of an offensive identity and the Bengals have found theirs with their rookie connection in Dalton and Green. Bengals have surprised everyone, including myself, especially considering I didn't think they would win more than 2 games. Seahawks have no offensive weapons and while Dalton will find the 12th man an interesting component in game to deal with, talent will win out at the end of the day. Seahawks struggle again.

GO GET PAID!!(We Will)

Catch the Vegas Takedown Show Thursday nights at 10pm Eastern at www.blogtalkradio.com/gametheory. DO IT!!

Game Theory Recap Week 7

2011-10-26T20:37:00.002-04:00

Great night for us Theorists as I will drop the recap and the picks for week 8 consecutively. Very nice, yes? 5-3 last week giving us another healthy ROI and bringing us up to 33-26 for the season. It's the right answer, but I feel we can further expound upon that....so we will. Stay tuned.

Game Theory NCAA and NFL Picks Week 7

2011-10-19T18:39:00.004-04:00

Dial up your favorite back alley number runner, we've got profits to share Theorists. Going with an 8 game format again as we have managed to fill our own coffers a bit more lately. That's the right answer. Prepare to copy:

UCF -16 at UAB- UAB has the proud distinction of not yet having won a game of football in the 2011 season. This is one bad team overall. They can't stop the run, they can't stop the pass, they can't run the ball, they can't pass the ball. They don't do anything really that justifies even fielding a team. Now, recently, we can make the same argument for UCF after their uninspiring effort against SMU on the heels of their inclusion at the big boy table. But the scheduling Gods give the Knights a gift with back to back flag football contests in UAB and Memphis. Time to stack some conference wins and build some confidence back. I think UCF hangs 40 on UAB. Maybe by half time.

Clemson -10 Vs North Carolina- Fighting with myself on this one but I gotta go with the team that has everything to play for still. Clemson showed a lot last week in coming from behind not only to win, but to cover(Thanks Vegas). They've been doing it for the past 5 weeks and I think they can do it again. Their defense can be iffy and they give up the big play in the air at times but offensively, they are going to be hard to stop for a North Carolina team that is extremely banged up. Small play because as I write this, I still wonder what North Carolina team is going to show up. Hopefully they don't show up at all.

Boise State -31 Vs Air Force- First match up for these new conference mates. Boise has been covering some huge numbers lately after cruising past Nevada, while Air Force has been doing the exact opposite. They have offensive potential, yes, but they have no way of stopping the Boise State interpretation. Coupled with the road environment, I don't see how Air Force can stay in this game past the half. In essence, it's 5 scores that Boise will have to get that Air Force doesn't match and I don't see that being a problem as the style points start to add up with the BCS rankings out and the Broncos needing some help along the way. Lot of points but, hey, we're after a lot of money. Try it sometime.

Auburn +24 At LSU- I don't know what Bodog was thinking and apparently neither did they because literally as soon as I locked this in, they pulled the line off the board. Too bad for them. I don't dispute LSU as one of the top 2 teams in the country right now but I just can't for any reason see Auburn losing by more than 3 touchdowns. They damn sure aren't winning but this is the SEC and these games can be more than meets the spread. LSU will also be without corner Tyrann Mathieu (Too bad) and RB Spencer Ware which probably explains why the number disappeared from the board and also why my account will be infused just after the final seconds tick from the game clock. Thanks Vegas.

USC +9 At Notre Dame- Bad match up for Notre Dame from a defensive personnel stand. They can't defend the forward pass and that's really all that Matt Barkley and company do well. Everyone knows the history with these programs so that alone should make for a closer spread despite USC being down. Notre Dame is only 9 points better than service academies. I don't trust their QB's in big games and I have seen Matt Barkley win those same types of games on the road since he was a freshman. There have been some losses in recruiting for USC but don't be fooled, when inspired, they still have plenty of talent that will show up. I'm seeing a last possession type of game.

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Denver +2 At Miami- Big, weird game here Theorists. First off, it couldn't play out any better for Tim Tebow. He gets the start, loses Brandon Lloyd who hates him anyway, gets to play in his home state on a day that for some reason sees the Dolphins honoring the Naty title winning Gators of which Tebow was a part. So not only are the Dolphins themselves starting a back up, their honoring the oppositions school that isn't even from Miami and actually won that title game on this field. That's just stupid on so many levels. Tim Tebow is going to have a lot of friendly eyes upon him and probably most of the fans who bother to show up on his side. Miami is on their way out. We all are, act accordingly. Broncos grab a victy.

Saints -14 Vs Colts- I have not liked these types of spreads this year. Mostly because when I play the favorite I lose or when I ignore them all together, I lose out on money. What am I supposed to do? Make more money! Curtis Painter has played pretty well at times, including racking up a nice streak of interception-less passing. Too bad the only streak that matters is the winless variety of which will continue in a very loud, prime time packed Superdome that NBC wishes flex scheduling were available for. Saints coming off of a division loss on the road where Brees had some issues. No better remedy than to play the Colts. Saints by 20.

Bears -1 At(Sort of) Tampa Bay- Across the pond game taking place in London. Essentially the pick'em variety which works well for me and my account. Both teams coming off of wins that they had to have in conference. Josh Freeman has not played as well as we would have expected after playing the way he did last year and now they are also down last season's surprise back LaGarette "Get Punched" Blount. Bears defense seemed to have fixed what ails them from a run defending perspective as they held the best RB in the league, Adrian Peterson, to a mere 39 yards on the ground. Not sure who will mine the rock for the Bucs but good luck with that. The Bears offense seems to have honed into what actually works for them after forgetting it so quickly when the same problems arose last year. Give the ball to Forte, keep extra blockers in for Cutler, never play Frank Omiyale. Simple right? Bears expecting most of the fan support despite the Glazer connection and also a FG win.

Hear all of this brilliance and more on the Vegas Takedown Show at www.blogtalkradio.com/gametheory Thursday night at 10PM Eastern.

GO GET PAID!!(We will)

Game Theory Recap Week 6

2011-10-18T18:28:00.002-04:00

Well, profitable, but not to the extent we would have liked. Rutgers killed us and the Panthers finally decided to not cover. 4-3 still against the big, bad number bringing us to 28-23 on the year and healthily in the black. That's the right answer.

www.blogtalkradio.com/gametheory

Game Theory NCAA and NFL Picks Week 6

2011-10-12T20:27:00.001-04:00

Profitability is dialed in Theorists. I'm going heavy on College Football since it's what we have done rather well around here. Prepare to copy:

Auburn +2 Vs Florida- Really Vegas, really? John Brantley will be watching from the stands once again still tending to his wounds suffered at the hands of Alabama. Auburn may not be much to speak of defensively but they get the Gators at home against a back up's back up QB. I don't care what the spread is, I'm playing the odds and they tell me that it comes down largely to QB play in college football. Florida is sans one at the moment. Auburn wins.

Oklahoma State -5 At Texas- Texas is a tire fire and Oklahoma State is an offensive force with the #1 scoring margin in the land and the number 2 attack in the air. Texas proved against Oklahoma that they are garbage and have no business being ranked, unless its a top ranking for bad teams. And while they wouldn't be rocking the crown, they'd be at least getting their measurements taken for the mold. Too much inexperience for Texas, they are still a year or three away. I like an OK State squad that is eying a State title game for the Big 12. Write that down.

Rutgers -2 Vs Navy- Rutgers does some things well but nothing great. The biggest thing in their favor is their run defense which is pivotal when playing a team that refuses to infuse the forward pass into their playbook. Back and forth results over the years but when Rutgers get them at home, as they do now, they tend to depress the pedal. I count on that as I count my money Theorists. Do it with me. Rutgers rolls.

Clemson -8 At Maryland- I am riding the Clemson money train until it derails. Tajh Boyd is good to go after a brief scare for those like us not affiliated with the Clemson program and only with the monetary version. They are an extremely impressive team on both sides of the ball and they seemingly play better the bigger the games are. Well they are big each week now as they need to stay focused the entire route through their season if they expect to shake up the BCS. Georgia Tech and South Carolina remain but they won't matter if they stumble here against Maryland. Clemson by double digits.

Michigan +3 at Michigan State- I am not completely sold on the new Wolverines defense but 3 out of the last 4 halves have been shutouts and they are top 10 in scoring defense after 6 games. That has to count for something. Michigan State is their usual up and down selves and Kirk Cousins is looking like anything but a first round pick that he came into the season professed as. I think Michigan State is in a down year and Michigan has found themselves in control of the Big 10 with no meeting with Wisconsin potentially until the Confy title game. Brady Hoke has taken a step back and allowed Denard Robinson to be himself. It's working and I think it works for another conference win on the road.

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Jets -7 Vs Miami- I have made no secrets of my displeasure for the Jets this season but surprisingly Mark Sanchez played a pretty good game last week on the road in New England. Now they get a much needed home game against a Dolphins team starting Matt Moore. Who the hell is afraid of Matt Moore? I'm not. The Rex Ryan era is under fire but they couldn't ask for a better bone to throw to the Jets fans than a division opponent forced to play a back up QB. If Jets stumble here, throw away the season.

Carolina +6 At Atlanta- Carolina is still undefeated against the spread this season and I don't think its by accident. They have covered some big numbers and have put points on the board in all conditions and in all 5 weeks. They are banged up defensively but they continue to play hard, inspired by the offensive effort. The Falcons are in free fall mode. They just had their revenge game that Matt Ryan has talked all off season about preparing for and not being able to contain his desire to play the Packers again at home in multiple interviews. How did that work out? The Falcons are their own worst enemy, starting with Ryan. Watch him play, for some reason he feels it necessary to audible out of most plays. Any coincidence that they have a ton of false start penalties? He's confusing everyone, not just the line. Cam Newton will put pressure on a secondary that has been torched despite it's upgrades and Steve Smith is back to his usual self. Not good. I think the Falcons get a win here because Michael Turner will be the difference maker but this will be a close game.

GO GET PAID!!(We will)

Tune in to the Vegas Takedown Show Thursday nights at 10PM EDT at www.blogtalkradio.com/gametheory for all your money making concerns.

Game Theory Recap Week 5

2011-10-12T18:05:00.002-04:00

That was the right answer Theorists. 5-1 with only the ineptitude of the Chicago Bears holding back our perfect financial assault on Vegas. We now sit at 24-20 against the number with nothing but green skies in our future. Let's proceed, shall we?

Catch the Vegas Takedown Show Thursday nights at 10PM Eastern Banking Hours
at www.blogtalkradio.com/gametheory. Do it.

The Sound of Money

2011-10-10T19:39:00.001-04:00

Have a listen Theorists. http://bit.ly/9qeqC1

And feel free to do so every Thursday night at 10PM Eastern. Or it's downloadable form like presented to you in that link.

Game Theory NCAA and NFL Picks Week 5

2011-10-06T19:21:00.002-04:00

In an "Occupy Wall Street" special (Grow up and occupy a job), I will provide you with the ammunition to Occupy Vegas' coffers! As stated previously, we've targeted the NCAA pretty well early in the season but still the NFL has dealt us some set backs. That stops now. Prepare to copy:

Oklahoma -10 Vs Texas- Red River Shootout (PC version is lame) so we get a mixed bunch fan wise on a neutral field. Longhorns are 4-0 yet really have been anything but impressive in getting there. Ton of inexperience all over the field and McCoy and Shipley are back playing pitch and catch for the Longhorns. The younger kin of Colt and Jordan, who if they were on the field Saturday, I'd feel better about the 10 points they're getting. But Landry Jones and Oklahoma are a freak of an offensive force. Jones is crushing all of the Night Stalker's records and they've already proven themselves early on the road against Florida State. I know the trends are against them head to head but the talent is in their favor. Plus Texas, is an account draining 6-13 ATS in their past 19. I like Oklahoma comfortably.

LSU -12 Vs Florida- I don't know if Florida could have covered this with John Brantley playing and well, seeing as how his leg is dead, I don't see how Florida competes for an entire game. Alabama's defense was a slightly spicier taste of what they will get in Death Valley, but still a tough bunch for what will clearly be a one-dimensional offense for Charlie Weiss and company. LSU has been methodical on offense and most importantly, efficient as Jarret Lee has only tossed one ball to the wrong colored jersey, plus they got criminal Jordan Jefferson back who should see some more time on the field. I like LSU to pull away in the second half. Far away. Flock of Seagulls style.

Clemson -20 Vs Boston College- Either I got this all wrong or Vegas is about to lose a ton of cashish. Boston College has been a total tire fire and Clemson is trending up with no signs of pointing down anytime soon. They just went through a tough 3 game stretch collecting 3 wins and most importantly 3 covers against Auburn, FSU and Va Tech. The Blanket and I were down on them early but I think they have emerged as the clear ACC favorite with essentially Georgia Tech left on the schedule before closing the calender with South Carolina. If the cards fall right, they are looking at an undefeated year and a pretty good hand to play against the BCS for a Naty title bid. This year alone could break the BCS and nothing would make me happier. I think I have 2011 for them in the Game Theory office death pool. Clemson by 4 touchdowns.

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Steelers -3 Vs Tennessee- The Public hates the Steelers right now. James Harrison is a big loss but remember, that defense is systemic and the offense will figure it out. Probably this week. Now I get some favor going towards the Titans but now that Kenny Britt has said "Peace Out" to the season, (it's true I heard him), who is Hasselbeck going to throw to? Pride is not much of an emotion to throw cash on in the college game because of the talent disparity that can exist, but in the socialist dream of the NFL where all teams are created equal, I think the Steelers come out and bottle rocket the Titans. Plus this line has moved 5 points down from -8. I'm never riding with the public on that kind of money train exodus.

Chargers -4 At Denver- Denver is in suicide prevention mode right now. Their pass defense is doing them in and when a healthy combo of Rivers and Jackson comes to down along with an actually productive Ryan Matthews in the air and on the ground, it just doesn't spell a very good day for the Broncos. Both of these teams hate covering the spread lately but San Diego actually doesn't mind when taking the field against Denver going 7-2-1 in their last 10 games. I'm not confident in the running game of the Broncos and I think the illogical Denver fans are starting to get to Kyle Orton. And who could blame him. Broncos hate their life right now but not as much as Vegas will hate itself after we pillage their accounts on this line. Chargers roll.

Chicago +6 At Detroit- Big game in the Monday Night Football series now sans Hank Williams Jr. First in 10 years that the Lions will actually be playing in and now we will find out just how well this team handles expectation and pressure to win for a change. Bears come in hobbled, most likely down Earl Bennett and Chris Harris still but they are in a role they enjoy as underdogs. Realistic estimates before the season had the Bears exactly where they are at 2-2 with this being a pivotal game in the division standings going forward. Lose and they trail by 3 and can start draft prep. The Lions have proven adept at coming from behind but in that lies their issue. Teams aren't putting them away with their play calling. Mike Martz may not be the one to break that spell now that I think of it but he does know how to put points on the board against these Lions whose defense for all of their preseason hype, just isn't that good. Nick Fairley makes his debut as well but who knows what to expect from him. The Back 7 can be attacked if Cutler can stay up right. In the end, I think the Lions go to 5-0 but in another field goal possession type of game.

GO GET PAID!!(We Will)

Listen to the Vegas Takedown Show Thursday Night at 10pm EDT at www.blogtalkradio.com/gametheory for more profit sharing tips.

Game Theory Recap Week 4

2011-10-04T21:18:00.003-04:00

What the hell Theorists, 2-4, really? Really. The NFL has not been a successful animal to corral as of yet but I am starting to see some trends emerge and we all have an idea I think by now of which teams are a match away from full blow dumpster fire. College we are firing pretty well, despite the 1-2 effort. Who would have thought USF would play so down to their level of competition? Then again, they always do. Overall, we are still profitable at 19-18 but the time for mediocrity is over Theorists. Follow me.

Game Theory NCAA and NFL Picks Week 4

2011-09-28T20:25:00.004-04:00

Back with some new avenues of approach towards profits Theorists. I'm going to stick with the 3 and 3 format for now until we build up the war chest some more. Or some period for that matter. Never mind the semantics, money to make. Prepare to copy:

South Florida -2 At Pittsburgh- South Florida owes Pittsburgh here in this spot. USF hasn't beaten Pitt since 2007. I know this goes against the Home Dog Theory but, sometimes theory has to be replaced with fact. And this I know. Better Quarterback + Better Coach = Money in college football. The Bulls are staring at their first Big East title in the face and are going to be in no better position to win it than this year. And this may be the last year the conference even matters the way things are going and of course with the conference presidents meeting this weekend. BJ Daniels has been a model of efficiency for a change with a 66% completion percentage, an 8-1 TD to INT ratio, and nearly 300 yards on the ground. Daniels has taken that next step. He's no longer a perceived dual-threat, he is one. And the Bulls have a plethora of weapons for him to distribute the ball in the air to with 18 different players having made a catch, 7 for a TD thus far. Pitt has played two very close games with Iowa and Notre Dame and may be in a bit of a tail spin having not been able to get the wins in games that they had more than enough chances to do so. I like the RB, I don't like the QB. Too many weapons on the Bulls defense as well and I think Skip Holtz will have shored up some of the let downs on display against UTEP in the short week.

Nevada +28 At Boise State- Pay back game for Kellen Moore and the Broncos as Boise had all but stamped it's appearance in the Naty title game last year before their kicker forgot how to kick field goals correctly. Since 2006 these games have been within 1 score of each other and it all comes down to both systems being equally difficult to defend. Nevada has struggled to replace Kapernick but may have found some offensive success finally against Texas Tech last week and this is essentially their season. Boise is in cruise control until TCU in 2 months. Nevada already knows they can beat them and they have players who know exactly what that feels like. While I don't think Moore and coach Chris Peterson are worried, I don't think they are interested in putting down the pedal for 60 minutes, regardless of locality. I like a nice 55-28 contest and an even nicer cover.

Nebraska +10 At Wisconsin- First Big Ten(12?)conference show down for the Huskers. Not doing very well against the number early on, just 1-3 but they are able to score points and that is going to help them on the road. Taylor Martinez struggled when it mattered most last year in large part because of unfamiliarity of how to go on the road and win a big game. I don't think he is ready to do that right now either because of Russell Wilson is under center for the Badgers but I do think Martinez' running ability is going to be able to keep them in this game. Also, Wisconsin has been baking cupcakes so far this season early on and hasn't had much to play for. Meanwhile, Nebraska got a nice punch in the face with Washington and may be a little bit more prepared for the task at hand. I like Wisconsin for the win, but I think it's more like a final possession, one score game.

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Denver +13 At Green Bay- Hard to not be impressed with the passing game of the Packers. Aside from that, there's a lot to not like about the Packers defense, most notably they have given up over 300 yards passing every week. And in comes Kyle Orton who has yet to hit his stride but is more than capable of tossing up a high amount of yardage. The Broncos have a more than +1 turnover ratio and are holding pretty well defensively early on. Can they run the ball is the question as the Packers have been pretty solid on that front. You can score points and hit plays down field against the Packers and Orton knows this Packers group about as good as any team on the schedule with his time in Chicago. As we saw last week, double digit spreads tend to die hard in the NFL, especially for me. Also, I think the Packers are due for a let down here as they may get caught looking ahead to the Sunday night game in Atlanta next week.

Miami +9 At San Diego- Chargers took another loss with Bob Sanders heading to his normal NFL residence of IR this week. Huge number for a team that hates beating the Dolphins. Miami comes in having dominated the past 8 match ups at a 7-1 margin and the Chargers are a lame 1-5 ATS as well recently. Chad Henne and Brandon Marshall should find success chucking the pill as Marshall has history here. The Chargers are unfortunately, off to their usual early season sleep walk and if they play the way they did against the Chiefs again Sunday, they may find themselves at .500 after the seasons first quarter. The Dolphins are absolutely desperate as an organization for a win and as we have seen many times before, desperation goes a long way in the NFL. But it won't matter. Chargers win a close one.

Baltimore -4 Vs Jets- The Ravens have owned the Jets as of late, but to New York's credit, a lot of those wins came when Rex was an employee. I don't like the Jets in this spot at all. To be honest, I don't like the Jets yet. I'm not sure who they are as a team at this point. They struggled with a Cowboys team that gave them the win, they beat up the high school Jags and they just got pounded on the road against the Raiders who ran the ball at will. Now they go back on the road in prime time against a Ravens team that looks like they woke up after a week 2 hangover against the Titans. Ray Rice is moving the chains and despite losing Lee Evans, more WR's have stepped up to make plays for QB Joe Flacco. The Jets are having trouble themselves running at barely 3 yards an attempt and I don't think Mark Sanchez is going to be set up for success in this game. I like the Ravens by at least 10.

GO GET PAID!!(We Will)

Catch the Vegas Takedown Show every Thursday night at 10pm EDT at www.blogtalkradio.com/gametheory or download the podcast whenever you feel like enhancing your gambling acumen. Do it.

Game Theory Recap Week 3

2011-09-28T20:22:00.002-04:00

Stalemate time Theorists. Wrong answer indeed. We knocked out a perfect 3-0 college slate only to be turned away from a complete pillaging of the Vegas coffers with an 0-3 NFL Sunday bringing us to a season tally of 17-14 ATS. Which if your're scoring at home, (I'm scoring right here so why would you need to?) that is unacceptable. Working on fixing that right now. Picks to follow. Standby.

Game Theory NCAA and NFL Picks Week 3

2011-09-21T20:23:00.002-04:00

Not happy with how Vegas was able to sneak behind our lines and make off with nearly 70% of our money last week Theorists. Not a problem. I've tightened up my shot group and narrowed my targets down to 6 games. 3 College and 3 of the NFL version of the game of football. Prepare to copy:

Florida -20 At Kentucky- Aside from a college football anomaly in 2007, this game has been double digit leaning favorite wise in Florida's direction. And they've covered it every time. The Charlie Weiss era is off to a flourishing start in Gainesville and somewhere in KC, they are wishing he never left. Actually, they're probably wishing the NFL season was already over. Kentucky is a bad offensive football team and I'm struggling to see how they will score points let alone stop the Gators from doing so themselves. Home crowd might provide some relief early but some people should just know when their conquered. The Kentucky football team does.

LSU -6 At West Virginia- LSU is quietly playing the sleeper role about as much as anyone can as the #2 team in the country right now en route to making a strong case for a Naty title birth. The defense has been impeccable in big games and they have no problem taking that defensive playbook on the road as evidenced by how they just shut down Chris Relf and the Bulldogs of Mississippi State. West Virginia is a tough environment and the fans will be rather lubricated come kickoff time but this number is what this game was played to last year with LSU still building for the future. I think they win by a tad bit more this time around despite the venue change.

Oklahoma State +4 at Texas A&M- Big rivalry here and another game that has come down to the wire in recent years. We see these games every year in the Big 12. Shootouts that come down to the final possession and are decided by 3 points because somewhere along the line, one of these defenses will live up to that position naming and actually hold the offense to a field goal. Who it will be doesn't much matter because we can foresee this outcome in advance. Write that down Vegas.

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Bears +4 Vs Green Bay- Same spread and venue as when the last time these teams met in the NFC title game. But for a Jay Cutler injury, that result may have been reached. Now however, it's early "must get it together" time for the Bears offensive line and offensive signal caller Mike Martz who mysteriously left his balanced play calling sheet at Soldier Field during the Falcons game. Aaron Rodgers and the Packers have been putting up the points and the yards but have surrendered way too many en route to a 2-0 start. These teams know each other and everything about how each will line up respectively. It's always a close game and one that much like last season, based on location, to the victor go the spoils. Look for Cutler to remain upright long enough to get the ball downfield and Martz to remember how to call a running play for soon to be multi-millionaire Matt Forte. Packers keep it close but Bears take the W.

Steelers -11 At Colts- Hey Indy, I brought some pictures of your team's morale. Your morale is dead. No shot here at all for the Collins era in Indy. The Steelers D is coming off of a blanking of the Seahawks who may be the only team close to as inept on offense right now as the Colts are. Too many playmakers on the Steelers defense and they're only getting healthier with James Harrison. Big Ben should connect on a few big plays down field as the Colts secondary is in shambles, much like the rest of the team. And city. And Peyton Manning's neck.

Chargers -15 Vs Chiefs- Huge spread for an NFL contest but these teams are headed in vastly different directions. In fact, I'm not even sure KC is playing the same sport as the Chargers are at this moment. Lost for the year are Eric Berry and Jamaal Charles and lost on the field is QB Matt Cassell. This team has looked completely unprepared and non-competitive each time out. The Chargers have had some turnover issues early on against two opportunistic defenses but should get the remedy they need in a Chiefs team that appears to be longing for the end of the season already. Phillip Rivers should have a nice go of it playing long toss all day with Vincent Jackson. Chargers by a lot.

GO GET PAID!!(We will)

Listen to the Vegas Takedown Show Thursday nights at 10pm EDT at www.blogtalkradio.com/gametheory for the sound of money.

Game Theory Recap Week 2

2011-09-21T20:02:00.002-04:00

It was a "Bye Bye Money" special as Vegas planted several IED's along the road to profitability as we stumbled our way to a 4-7 showing. Too much action Theorists and we will be adjusting accordingly. Our season tally is now an embarrassing 14-11 ATS. It's the wrong answer Theorists and I will be raising my hand with the correct variety the next time Vegas poses the question. Write that down.

Game Theory NCAA and NFL Picks Week 2

2011-09-14T19:16:00.003-04:00

Money time is upon us once again Theorists. I've got a ton of action for this weekend, maybe to my detriment due to over exuberance but the lines are just jumping out at me and I'm pretty sure come the end of the football weekend, Vegas' money will be jumping out at me as well. As it should. Prepare to copy:

UCF -6 At FIU- I like what FIU is up to. I think they are an up and coming team in the state of Florida. They want to beat UCF. Both of these school's kids know each other having grown up and played together. But as many strides that FIU has taken, they are still a few steps behind the Knights. Think USF and UCF rivalry a few years back. UCF wanted more than anything to beat their I-4 brethren but, never could because, well they weren't a better team. Same case here. Wesley Carrol was on Miss St. when they beat the Knights a few years ago in the Liberty Bowl and is a solid passer. But outside of him and T.Y. Hilton, who is a stud in his own right, FIU doesn't have many play makers. They don't run the ball very well and UCF loves to crush the run. They've reloaded on defense and Jeff Godfrey is already progressed admirably as a passer despite not throwing a touchdown yet. He's completing 74% of his passes and likes to spread it around. And let's not forget the 3 headed running monster. UCF Rolls.

Auburn +3 At Clemson- Well, I was wrong about the rebuilding project. Perhaps Coach Chizek is in the reloading phase instead. Regardless of some of the defensive issues, offensively they are still stacked and can put up a ton of points. Clemson just struggled with Wofford at home, clearly looking forward to the beating that should ensure just after kickoff. Clemson is a dismal 1-4 ATS when at home as well and gives up a lot of points early in games. They aren't built for catch up where as demonstrated twice now by Auburn, they can respond to deficits and score in bunches. Auburn outright.

Boise State -20 At Toledo- Toledo just played their championship game, albeit at the state level by covering and scaring an Ohio State team with nothing to play for. Chris Peterson, Kellen Moore and the Broncos are the best in college football at what they do. They win everywhere and they don't take games off. They are fast tracking towards a BCS title game and Toledo is standing in the way of progress. Boise State largely.

Michigan State +5 At Notre Dame- I am riding with whoever plays against the Irish until proven otherwise. Yes they can accumulate yards but they have a penchant for fratricide and 10 turnovers in 2 games equals only one thing: 2 losses. Now they must host a better team all around than USF and Michigan with all of the pressure in the world to stop screwing it up. You think they are going to answer the bell? I don't. Kirk Cousins is a solid QB who has been in every possible environment the college game has to offer. He isn't going to be intimidated by a packed house with inflated expectations on the road. Brian Kelly may be too much for the crop of QB's he has in what he asks them to do and the pressure he puts on them because of their youth. But too bad. Grow up and hold onto the ball. Until they do that, I will put my money on their defense being absolutely terrible and giving up the big play when they cannot afford to most. Again.

Oklahoma -3 at FSU- Essentially this is the Sooners season here. They get past this test and they could be rematching with Boise State in a BCS Bowl, only this time for the Naty title. I like where FSU is at right now but EJ Manuel is still very young and has yet to play in a big time game like the one he will find himself in Saturday. 2 interceptions against 2 dumpster fire programs with athletes in the secondary that wouldn't even get a waterboy scholy offer at Oklahoma is not promising either. We will see how he holds up under the pressure but I'll put my money on Landry Jones, the proven commodity, and the Sooners notching nothing less than a push.

Florida -9 Vs Tennessee- The Vols are sweeping out the Lane Kiffin era and that means they are playing a ton of freshman. I don't like that scenario on the road in the swamp one bit. The Charlie Weiss era is off to a fast start against lesser competition but unlike last year, they aren't struggling to execute a shotgun snap at this point in the season. Also, they've surrendered just 3 points defensively and are loaded with athletes and felons for coach Muschamp to work with on that side of the ball. I don't think this game is very close at all to be honest and I think the Gators roll rather easily.

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Bears +7At New Orleans- The Lovie Smith led Bears have owned Drew Brees and the Sean Payton commanded Saints since their inception. Drew Brees is a middle of the field passer and that is what the Bears Cover 2 takes away with their Linebackers in coverage. Defensively, the Saints are a mess as evidenced by the 42 points they surrendered opening night and special teams is both a weakness and a strength with the newly acquired Darren Sproles. If they give up the big plays in the return game, it won't take much out of Cutler and the speed they employ on offense to tack on points. I think the Saints win this game based on the home crowd and the degree of difficulty inside there but if they have Brian Urlacher back in time, that's just a whole other element that even Vegas can't put a number on when it comes to play on the field. If the Bears replicate the success up front on the defensive line with the 4 man rotation at tackle and the Saints can't find a blocker for Peppers, watch out. Close one in the big easy.

Green Bay -10 at Carolina- First real defensive test for Cam Newton and it comes against a 3-4 with arguably the best rushing linebacker in Clay Matthews in the league. The Packers secondary doesn't tend to get beat deep as the Panthers were able to do a few times in Arizona and how Cam Newton responds to consistent pressure will bear watching. Aaron Rodgers is in unstoppable mode right now and the defense of the Panthers will have no answer for the plethora of weapons to which Rodgers can attack with. Carolina also lost Jon Beason for the year and again will have to plug in players at key positions to try and stop the best offense in the league. I don't see it happening. Not now, not never.

Buffalo -3 Vs Oakland- Big wins for both teams on the road last week. Ryan Fitzpatrick has come into his own as has Stevie Johnson and Fred Jackson. Those 3 weapons are enough for any team to worry about and the Raiders don't have the fire power to contend with them should this turn into a shootout. Raiders are a conservative bunch offensively and that is not the best way to slow down a Bills team that is going to be in the mix in their division all season long. Opening at home with a revamped and healthy defense is going to cause problems for Jason Campbell and despite holding the Broncos relatively in check defensively, I don't see them doing it for a second week in a row on the road. Bills comfortably.

Baltimore -6 At Tennessee- Baltimore is coming off of an annihilation of last year's AFC representative in the Super Bowl. The Titans are coming off of a loss to the one team in the league playing without a QB. How Matt Hasselbeck and Chris Johnson are going to move the ball is beyond me, especially considering how well they didn't do it last week. Joe Flacco is throwing the ball deep down field with success and Ray Rice is the AFC version of Matt Forte only better between the tackles. Too many weapons, too tough on defense. Titans get stomped out.

Atlanta +3 Vs Philadelphia- Big homecoming for the Falcons and a former Falcon in Vick. The Falcons are a better team then we saw last week in Chicago and are a significantly better team inside the Georgia Dome where Matt Ryan has lost but 2 regular season games. The defense of the Eagles is not the Bears and I think they will struggle to get pressure on Ryan which will allow him to get the ball into the hands of White and Jones down field. Michael Vick is the X factor completely. How well is he prepared to handle everything he is going to experience running out of that tunnel? I don't know. He thought he was but he definitely wasn't lights out against the Rams last week. The Falcons need to tackle much better and if they can keep DeSean Jackson in front of them and they get Michael Turner more than 10 carries, they should find themselves in the W column.

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Game Theory Recap Week 1

2011-09-13T19:45:00.002-04:00

An even-handed grappling with the purse strings of Vegas left us with a 4-4 mark Theorists bringing us up to 7-4 after 2 weeks of monetary combat. One of the greatest come from behind games of all time also saw one helluva great cover in Michigan over Notre Dame. Quality money Theorists with much more to make over the course of this season. Keep your eyes glued to this space. Do it.

Game Theory NCAA and NFL Picks Week 1

2011-09-07T19:24:00.006-04:00

First slate of NCAA and NFL picks Theorists, as it should be. I started off with a 3-0 mark as you know and the Game Theory conglomerate churned out a combined 7-1 record on the Vegas Takedown Show putting us in the black, where we belong, early. If you recall last year, I did my best San Diego Chargers stumbling out of the gate impression before coming on strong mid season and riding a nice wave of profitability the rest of the way on. Let's replicate the success and cut sling load on the rest. Prepare to copy.

Michigan +4 Vs Notre Dame- Could be a nice team to pile up cash on in terms of betting against the Irish. As pointed out in week 1, they've received their annual serving of too much hype with too little talent to justify it. A loss at home against the Bulls of USF only solidifies my belief in the fact that this team is just in over its head against premier competition, and barely competitive against the upper third of college football teams like the USF's and Michigan's of the world. Neither are winning a title this season but they're closer than Notre Dame. Denard Robinson had a so-so performance against Western Michigan but the offense was clearly scaled back in Hoke's debut. The defense collected 2 touchdowns off of turnovers which coincidentally is what killed the Irish against the Bulls. A few stats immediately jump out at me in this one, mainly Notre Dame being 1-4 ATS vs Michigan and an even worse 1-5 SU at the Big House. Why Vegas thinks they should be favored during a historical moment in Wolverine program history is escaping me but then again, so is the money from the Vegas vaults. In a reality recognizing statement, Michigan has been a terrible team ATS, going 1-9 in its last 10, that 1 being last week. But like I said, they succeed against Notre Dame and I see that trend continuing with an outright win and the biggest as of yet in the Brady Hoke era.

UCF -7 Vs Boston College- First of 2 tough, out of conference opponents for the Knights. Defensively, there was a lot to replace, notably Bruce Miller. The defense responded by pitching a shutout against lowly Charleston but nothing builds a confident unit more than demoralizing your opponent. The offense of the Knights scored on their first 5 possessions before giving way to the fans to suit up and pile on some more points. Jeff Godfrey rushed for 3 scores to help lead the Knights ground attack to 316 yards. For Boston College to surrender 227 on the turf to a Northwestern team without Dan Persa, I have a hard time believing they can stop a stout running game on the road. BC may also be down RB Andre Williams and Sophomore pill chucker Chase Rettig can go ahead and not count on another 375 yard performance in the air. Lost in that absurd number is the biggest of them all, 0 touchdowns. Points will be a valued commodity that the Eagles will struggle to purchase in a prime time road contest that they seem outmatched in all facets. UCF rolls.

Mississippi State -7 At Auburn- My sleeper team for the SEC title gets their first opportunity to prove their legitimacy. The Bulldogs ended last season by finally ending the Richie Rod era for Michigan in a severe bowl beating and opened up right where they left off with nearly 700 yards of offense. These teams are headed in opposite directions in my opinion as evidenced by a lack luster performance against Utah State for Auburn. I understand losing Cam Newton but that is no excuse to give up 38 points against a team that I wouldn't exactly say replicates the Dan Mullin offensive attack. Auburn ran the other way seemingly when the Aggies were hand carrying the ball and now they've got to defend Vick Ballard who accrued 3 touchdowns as well as defend the dual-threat Chris Relf. It isn't happening and the rebuilding project for Tigers Coach Gene Chizek officially gets under way Sunday morning. Bulldogs big.

Hawaii +7 At Washington- Sometimes stats do tell the whole story. So when I see a Huskies squad that handed out 473 passing yards to Bo Levi Mitchell of Eastern Washington, I'm inclined to believe Bryant Moniz will have his first break out game of the season after putting up over 5000 yards last year. There wasn't a single category in which Washington performed better than Hawaii despite playing against drastically inferior competition and replacing Jake Locker is going to take more than 1 game as evidenced by their pitiful performance. 102 yards? Why don't you drop back to pass with a bottle of scotch and a hand gun......nevermind. Look for Hawaii to force the action on defense and continue the Bryant Moniz air and ground performance free of charge except for of course, those in attendance.

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Denver -3 Vs Oakland- In Kyle we trust! The official Game Theory QB gets the first NFL write up of the 2011 season. I am looking for Orton to build off his solid preseason and string together multiple scoring drives against an Oakland secondary that will be sans Asomugha allowing for last season's league leading receiver Brandon Lloyd to put up the numbers that sent him to the Pro Bowl. The return of Elvis Dummervil and rookie Von Miller will bear watching as they should be able to put pressure on Jason Campbell all day as he attempts to throw the ball to.....well, nobody of mention. Broncos by a touchdown.

Packers -4 Vs New Orleans- Season opener for the league puts a fully healthy Packers squad on the field for the first time since probably this time last year. A prohibitive favorite coming into the year, the 3-4 of Green Bay should prove worrisome for Drew Brees and company. How the newcomers to the Saints offense pick up and execute said offense will dictate just how close they are able to keep this game as I see a potential double digit loss for the boys from the bayou. It's not necessarily the offense of New Orleans I'm worried about as it is the defense. Aaron Rodgers is arguably the best and most efficient quarterback in the league but still there are question marks surrounding the running game. How Saints Defensive Coordinator Gregg Williams attacks McCarthy's pieces could make this interesting early, but by the time the Vegas Takedown Show goes hot, our account should be well on its way towards blacker pastures.

Giants -3 At Redskins- The Giants defensive front is still arguably the best in the league despite the absence of Osi Umenyora. No one really knows what to expect of the Redskins this year as they will have Rex Grossman under center who can beat any team on the field any given week, including his own. Also, Laron Landry has been tweeting less than complementary items about his training staff all week which can't be sitting well with Mike Shannahan. He's not expected to play and they are already down a few playmakers from last season as well. I don't exactly see Tim Hightower as an upgrade over the departed Clinton Portis and while NFC east contests tend to be within a field goal one way or the other, I don't see Eli Manning and the two headed rushing attack of the Giants being slowed down for an entire 60 minutes. How Grossman plays against a relentless pass rush is almost a given and if Manning is efficient, this could get ugly.

Patriots -7 At Dolphins- The annual preseason dress rehearsal didn't go well for Brady and his bunch but who is really worried opening against the lowly dolphins and lame duck head coach Tony Sparrano? Sometimes match ups in the NFL can be looked at like the college game: Better coach + Better QB = Money. All of those signs point in one direction, New England's. The Dolphins QB scenario is in shambles despite my timid belief in Chad Henne. However, with last year's sensational rookie Devin McCourtey on the field, it could be a long day as he has a propensity for turnovers of the interception variety. Chad Ochocinco will be motivated to recapture his pro bowl ways and Wes Welker is still uncoverable in the slot. The Dolphins have a nice pass rush but there is no QB in the league better at defeating said rush than Thomas Brady. Pats by 2 touchdowns.

Game Theory Recap: NCAA Week 1

2011-09-06T22:17:00.003-04:00

So we will trumpet out the "NCAA Week 1" nomenclature until week 1 of the NFL commences and we can just go about saying "Game Theory Recap Week 1" as a totalitarian representation of the NFL and NCAA, got that? Great, which pretty much describes our picks from Week 1 Theorists as we pillaged our way to a perfect 3-0 start to the new Game Theory Handicapping season. Houston and Texas gave us the kind of covers that Vegas hates us for, a 1 point overage. Thanks Vegas. USF was an easy, never in doubt cover and outright win despite all of the tricks Vegas tried to pull out of its bag of....tricks..., to include a nice 2746 hour weather delay giving Notre Dame every opportunity to get back into the game they were all but dead and buried in the middle of the desert in. Regardless, it's profit sharing at it's finest. I take from the Vegas and give to the Theorist. We win, yes?

Game Theory: NCAA Picks Week 1

2011-08-31T19:50:00.003-04:00

Ahh, money is in the air Theorists! First week of Vegas pillaging is but a day away, and we are just over a week out from the NFL joining in to supply us with additional ingredients to add to our cash cake. Now as most of you who follow this space know, I tend to shy away from the first week of games because the lines can be a tad suspect with teams not yet established as to who they are and aren't. This season however, The Blanket and I did some early perusing of the lines and I found a healthy grouping in the NFL and will provide you with 3 from the college ranks to start coloring our accounts a healthy shade of black.

Houston -3 Vs UCLA- Quarterback Case Keenum is back for his final season for real this time, fully healthy after dive bombing his draft stock and his team's fortunes all in one last year. A legit Heisman front runner, he should be able to play long toss with Senior Wideout Patrick Edwards against a terrible UCLA defense. It remains to be seen how improved, if at all, the Bruins are on that side of the ball but Head coach Rick Neuheisel should have at least his offense ready for a tough road opener. But he probably won't since he's got to make due with some pretty mediocre and inexperienced signal callers. Making things worse is UCLA's propensity for never covering on the road as they are a depressing 1-5 ATS in their last 6. Houston will drop kick murphy the Bruins en route to a season opening victory by 8.

Texas -24 Vs Rice- Mack Brown is coming off the most disappointing season in recent memory for Longhorns fans and Garrett Gilbert proved to be no Colt McCoy his first season in relief after putting forth a respectable showing against Alabama in the Naty Title game 2 years ago. They will not be that bad again, though the defense will bear some watching having to replace Will Muschamp who left for the swampy conditions in the SEC. Sophomore WR Mike Davis had a solid freshman year in spite of Gilbert's shortcomings and he could be a problem for the conference as he possesses great size and has some big play ability. Rice, while they aren't the non-covering dumpster fire of a few seasons ago, they're still Rice and will have to open in a hostile environment with a team and fan base desperate to return to the BCS promised land. They know they can't stumble out of the gates early. Rice gives up way too many points and yards defensively and I don't see a player on the roster that can defend the forward pass. Longhorns should be covering by half time.

South Florida +10 At Notre Dame- Bulls QB B.J. Daniels may be spotty for the opener but I'm guessing Skip Holtz will have his horse ready for the big race. Huge game in the program for the Bulls and the Holtz era as he returns to the land his dad once stomped around to a Naty title in. Both coaching staffs have some familiarity and unless Brian Kelly has consistency out of his Quarterbacks, he could be on his way to Charlie Weiss status rather than the aforementioned Holtz. The Irish are getting their usual serving of undeserved hype after ending last season with 4 straight wins over some teams with past name recognition and not much else. As bad as Michigan has been defensively, they were still able to beat this team and this offense consecutive years. I mention that only because the Bulls strength is their defense, especially against the pass, and they hate letting teams into the end zone. If the Bulls can put points on the board and get some turnovers, they have a very good chance to steal this game, let alone cover. Experience and defense should win out and the Irish still are lacking in those two areas. On a side note, Michael Floyd is predictably back on the team. No word yet as to who he will be challenging to a keg stand from USF.

Go Get Paid!!(I will)

Listen to me at or download me weekly at www.blogtalkradio.com/gametheory

Game Theory: AFC West Preview

2011-08-30T19:55:00.003-04:00

A final Game Theory vacation out of the way and we are back on our azimuth towards profitability, which of course starts with profound knowledge of the league in which we garner said profits. We pick up with the AFC West where Jesus walks and Al Davis goes through Quarterbacks like oxygen tanks. Oh, and the Chiefs and Chargers play here as well but those teams are not nearly as interesting because they were too busy actually winning games last year. Imagine that.

1. San Diego- Lots of retaining, not a lot of adding to the roster for the Chargers after throwing away the division to the in-over-their-head Chiefs last season. Gone however is Darren Sproles, which essentially turns over the running back keys in their entirety to Ryan Matthews, last season's disappointing first round pick who seemed to spend more time injured on the sidelines than on the field producing. Back for an entire season with perennial Pro-Bowler Phillip Rivers is Vincent Jackson who's lack of presence last year single handedly kept the Chargers on the outside looking in at Club Playoffs. The offense will be better by default despite lost time during the lockout. Can't use that as an excuse since the whole league was dealt the same hand. Defensive newcomer Takeo Spikes will add some solidarity to the linebacking corps that along with the defense overall, will bear watching after the departure of Ron Rivera to Carolina, especially after being the #1 unit in all the land in YPG and Passing.

Prediction: 11-5

How It All Goes Wrong? Norm pulls out the "Start Slow" script and they drop very winnable games during the first half of the season. Again.

2. Kansas City- Matt Cassel will be under the microscope to replicate his surprisingly efficient regular season. An increase in completion percentage is a must and not disappearing during say, I don't know, playoff games would be nice as well. Incoming pieces Steve Breaston and Jared Gaither should make that almost a given as the Charles Haley offensive era has a lot of ingredients to work with, including now full time running back Dexter McCluster to complement beasts Jamaal Charles and Thomas Jones. Let's not forget Dwayne Bowe as well. Again, they have a lot of talent offensively but enough people have questions still about Cassel. If he can do it again this season, then the Chiefs are going to be a thorn in the West's side for years to come. Eric Berry proved to be legit right away as opposed to another former first rounder in Derrick Johnson, who surprisingly, had his best season as a pro last year. I think the Chiefs have finally figured out how to utilize him and with Berry, a unit that only surrendered 20 points a game last year can expect to take a step forward. Just not past the Chargers again.

Prediction: 7-9

How It All Goes Wrong? Matt Cassel finds favor in playing catch with the wrong team, Jamaal Charles becomes complacent after his long term deal and the defense regresses.

3. Denver- The Broncos are saddled with the most televised Quarterback controversy of all time that is based entirely on an abundance of hype, rather than talent. Tim Tebow I think can win games in the NFL but he is not better than Kyle Orton, who remains the most under appreciated Quarterback in my life time. With that said, one of these guys will not be in the Mile-High city come this time next year. Offense was not an issue last year but some interesting pieces were brought in with Dante Rosario at TE and Willis McGahee to push Knowshown Moreno. Brandon Lloyd is coming off of a season in which he led the league in receiving yards despite having Tebow tossing him the leather thing in the last 3 games of one of the most forgetful seasons in Denver history. Defensively, they were an absolute tire fire as Elvis Dummervil was sidelined early and pretty much anything that could go wrong while defending an NFL offense did. Some new toys were brought in to remedy the situation in Ty Warren and Derrick Harvey(which will either be boom or bust) and also 1st round pick Von Miller who has looked every bit of a defensive rookie of the year candidate. This team has no where to go but up and with a few breaks, could be better overall then people expect. But it will not be because of Timothy Richard Tebow.

Prediction: 5-11

How It All Goes Wrong? Kyle Orton is traded during the season after a slow start giving way to the not quite ready Tim Tebow era and the defense dresses up like last year's for a weekly Halloween costume contest.

4. Oakland- I don't even feel like adding to the word count of this preview at this point due to the omnipresence of Al Davis and his absolute death grip that he has on the franchise. After sweeping his way through the division and seeming to finally have the team headed in the right direction, Tom Cable had his service turned off and was shown the door for a mediocre and unproven Quarterbacks coach in Hue Jackson. Nothing was done to legitimately address the Quarterback position and your best player Nnamdi Asomugha saw the light and cannon balled towards it at, well, light speed. Kevin Boss is a downgrade from Zach Miller as is Lito Sheppard from the aforementioned Asomugha. There is nothing positive to say here Raider fans other than rookie Taiwan Jones might be good. How's that for optimism?

Prediction: 4-12

How It All Goes Wrong? Isn't this bad enough? Sadists.

Game Theory: NFC West Preview

2011-08-12T19:31:00.004-04:00

We kick off the Game Theory NFL preview starting out west in the NFC where things are least interesting. Half the teams will wheel out new starting QB's in the Cardinals' self proclaimed hero(eye roll)Kevin Kolb and the Seahawks' Tavaris Jackson(Yawn/coma) These moves were all designed to chase down what should be a perennial division winner for years to come in St. Louis starting now as Sam "The Nightstalker" Bradford and Co. are off to see the Wizard, the Wonderful Wizard of Playoff football. Let's get to it Theorists:

1. St. Louis- The Rams played a terrible mock playoff game against the Seahawks in week 16 for the division last year and Bradford knows it. This was a young team led by a rookie QB that saw itself get better, and most importantly for us, cover just about every week. Coach Spagnuolo knew what he needed to build a winner; Strong defensive leadership (James Laurinaitis) and a franchise QB(The Nighstalker). Both are in place and have no idea even what the definition of "in their prime" means yet. The offense at times struggled and clearly needed to upgrade around Bradford. They retained the services of Danny Amendola, a favorite target and fantasy sleeper last year, and secured the services of Jerious Norwood to alleviate some of the load bearing pressure off of Vegas' own beast, Steven Jackson. Don't underestimate the value of Cadillac Williams too if he's healthy. Also added to the offensive fray is the 4.3 40 man, Mike Sims-Walker from?????? UCF Theorists. Walker has had his share of injuries early in his career but now with a legitimate quarterback chucking him the ball downfield, he should approach Pro Bowl status. I watched this guy outperform Brandon Marshall back in college on a weekly basis, this guy can be that and more if he stays healthy. Defensively is where this team hurt itself the most. Too many points surrendered due to youth and an obvious lack of talent. Incoming Ben Leber, Brady Poppinga, Al Harris and Quintin Mikell in the back 7 will shore up those holes and bring much needed veteran experience and presence to aid Laurinaitis. It's his defense but these men will be enforcers for the messenger.

PREDICTION: 9-7

How It All Goes Wrong? Sam Bradford gets his Matthew Stafford on, Steven Jackson finally gives in to all of the pounding received since coming into the league and the defense shows no improvement. In other words, it won't go wrong.

2. Arizona-The Cardinals have had to watch their Super Bowl window get blown in with the Kurt Warner retirement version of a Hurricane. They can only do so much in the 2 years remaining on Larry Fitzgerald's deal who has made no secret of his desire to return to Minnesota. Why I don't know but we all have our dream/nightmare scenarios. They opted for a leap of faith in the unproven Kevin Kolb who once upon a time was the Eagles starter who managed to quickly lose his pursuit of Brett Favre's consecutive games played streak the minute he began chasing it down. Replaced by the reemergent Mike Vick, Kolb was relocated to the bench and the back up role he knew so well since being drafted. Now the overpaid starter in Arizona, he can do no worse than Derek Anderson and the collection of wax figures that frequented the Cardinals playing surface on Sunday's last season. Trust me, if you've seen Derek Anderson play football, you know there is nothing worse. Lost is Steve Breaston but in comes Todd Heap who will be a nice safety valve for Kolb. They also retained Early Doucet who might want to relish the fact that he is being served a starting job despite a life of mediocrity in the NFL thus far. Keeping Beanie Wells healthy is a major concern because without him, running the ball might as well be removed from the playbook. This is a very good defense that was overshadowed by its offensive ineptitude last year. If they can approach the same level of play and maybe decide to stop the run, they will be in a race with the Rams all year. The Head to Head match ups are what will do them in however as I see them just falling short.

Prediction: 8-8

How It Gets Better? Kolb proves to be what they thought he was (even though he isn't)and balls out of his mind. The defense is even better and runs through the NFC west's collection of bad football teams.

3. Seattle Seahawks-Bye bye Matt Hasselbeck, hello Tarvaris Jackson. Might as well have said "bye bye playoffs, hello top 5 draft pick". I do like the signing of Sidney Rice but the problem is the guy throwing him the ball. You're not into Jackson for a ton of money but with Charlie Whitehurst as your back up, you might as well mail out to your season ticket holders along with their stadium map your plan for drafting Andrew Luck. This isn't rocket surgery ladies and gentlemen, you cannot win without a quarterback in the NFL. The Bears tried it in 2006 and it would have worked had Rex Grossman remembered to throw the ball to the right team in the Superbowl against the Colts. Digression. Marshawn Lynch did go legend against the Saints in the playoffs but he is going to have to be that and then some for the duration of the regular season for the birds to see any sort of sustained success. I actually like the pillaging of Alan Branch from the Cardinals on the D-Line but they are going to have to keep teams out of the end zone in order to be a story after September 11.

Prediction: 5-11

How It Gets Better? Jackson plays a lot of pitch and catch with Sidney Rice instead of defensive backs, Marshawn runs like he did his first 2 season in Buffalo and the defense tackles instead of opting for the flag pulling variety.

4. San Francisco-New head coach Jim Harbaugh probably should have elected for one final year with the Cardinal of Stanford and his personal project of Andrew Luck rather than taken this job now. I get it, capitalize on the moment and sell high but trust me, Harbaugh would have had his choice of job after this year as well because, well, he would have been coaching Luck again one more year! Instead he's stuck with the big free agent pickup Alex Smith and a guy with more arrests than Pro Bowl's Braylen Edwards to go along with the unhappy Frank Gore and the diva(another word for girl) Michael Crabtree. We know how this offensive story is going to end. Patrick Willis may be one of the best Linebackers in the league but who outside of that zip code cares? This team's only hope is to beat out the Bengals for the worst record in the league or pray Andy Dalton is worth sticking with long term so they can reunite Luck with Harbaugh. It's going to be a long year Niners fans. Very long. Cancel your NFL Sunday Ticket subscriptions. In fact, don't even show up to the games and save all of the coin you usually donate to the local sports bar. It isn't worth it.

Prediction: 4-12

How It Gets Better? Al-Qaeda kidnaps the league.

NFL Owners Ratify Proposal To End Lockout

2011-07-21T20:07:00.004-04:00

Would saying "It's about time" be too predictable after 132 days? Probably. So let's just say it and move forward. The owners voted unanimously 31-0, well, as unanimous as a 32 team league with Al Davis in it can be. The proposal would allow players to report on Saturday and start the league year on Wednesday of next week kicking off a frenzy of free agency and rookie signings. The agreement if constituted by the players would be in place for 10 years and have no opt out clause like what the owners elected to do with this past CBA. Imagine that. A contract actually lasting through its agreed upon life span.

Canceled is the Hall of Fame game August 7th between the Bears and Rams, however, the ceremonies will still go on for the those elected in this years class. Let's be honest, who wanted to see two teams play after no supervised off season work where players were left to their own devices and barely a week of training camp? Okay, maybe that would be interesting, but not any longer than the coin toss giving us our one and only glimpse of team captains and starters in uniform before exiting, leaving 44 guys who won't have jobs in a month to play a meaningless "exhibition".

Now the ball is in the players hands, where it should be. That sentence was pretty lame actually. Lets move along. The players must agree to the deal obviously which by all accounts they will as they aren't needing a 75% majority like the owners. But stranger things have happened with negotiations. Still, at this point, they genuinely risk losing the fans if they do not sign on. Pre-season games will be lost along with revenue for both sides and who knows what else if they elect to continue playing this chess match. Clearly though this deal would not arrive for the players approval if DeMaurice Smith didn't feel it was beneficial to those who hired him.

With that said, get the damn deal done and let's get on with the season. We've got money to make Theorists.

Act accordingly.

Game Theory Update Time Theorists

2011-05-19T17:55:00.003-04:00

Alright Theorists, last found in this space was my incredibly inaccurate playoff opponent preview of the Atlanta Hawks who went on to bottle rocket the Orlando Magic in round 1 of the NBA Playoffs. Oops. Nothing follows.

Now we're clearly still sitting in limbo with the NFL lockout, which has thrown a bit of a damper on the off-season prep work The Blanket and I could be doing to better allow for profit sharing come football season. My best advice to you would be to continue following this space and The Game Theory Radio Show currently in it's Sunday night format as we will keep you current on any and all NFL developments, which you can do at www.blogtalkradio.com/gametheory, as well as any other money making opportunities currently being provided by the sports world. For those of you who have been following the show, you know that the Thursday night before a UFC event, our resident Game Theory MMA expert holds court to give you his fight winners and reasons behind them. It's insightful and time well spent if you're an MMA fan or someone who just likes prying money from the clutches of Vegas, like myself.

The Blanket has been cleaning up on NHL playoff hockey and I've started posting some of the picks on Twitter. Consider this a prime time to start following me @GameTheoryRadio and @TheBlanketGTR so you can get all of our published action as this space is reserved for NCAA and NFL football, and of course my opinion columns.

Also, coming this NCAA season and provided there is an NFL version, all of the picks that get posted here and broadcast on The Vegas Takedown Show, will be made available on Twitter one hour prior to kickoff on Saturday and Sunday for those of you who do not feel inclined to venture outside the confines of Twitter. The Blanket will do the same for those of who roll with Facebook as I may be the only person left on Earth sans an account.

Thanks to all of you who have been following us in this space now for the past 4 seasons and we look forward to continued growth, especially when it comes to our account balances.

Game Theory 6, out.

Orlando Magic Playoff Opponent Preview: Atlanta Hawks

2011-04-15T22:58:00.004-04:00

Fate must hate the Atlanta Hawks. Why else would it keep subjecting them to the Orlando Magic come playoff time? Most have pointed to this being the possible "upset" if there will be any in this first round, in large part because the Hawks went 3-1 in the regular season against the Magic. These same "experts" have penciled in the Miami Heat as Eastern Conference favorites despite their well documented struggles against this crop of playoff teams during the regular season. But whatever.

This team is not that good. In fact, they have been the worst of the Eastern Conference playoff field since the All-Star break stumbling to just a 10-17 record since. They don't rebound, they don't score, they don't do much of anything besides play in the East which affords them the opportunity to stack wins against teams more mediocre than themselves. The Magic have Dwight Howard, the best 5 on the planet. The Hawks have a collection of characters that even when using the Pythagorean Theorem wouldn't equate to a 5. There are those who will point to the "big" lineup the Hawks toss in the Magic's direction as a nullifying force. Why, because of Jason "DNP" Collins? Dude hasn't even had to wear a different uniform the past 4 games because he's perspired about as much as I have typing this. Translation: He hasn't seen the floor.

The Hawks are essentially the same team as last year sans Mike Bibby who in no way is any one that would strike fear in the Magic's heart. Jameer Nelson has torched him whenever they have matched up and has even defended well. When he is tying down the opposing team's point guard, the Magic's collective defense is much better. Yes there will be big bodies thrown at Howard in an effort to foul and frustrate him. And to a large extent, it has been a successful strategy, especially during the regular season that saw him lead the league in Technical fouls among other categories and also a unpaid 2 game vacation because of it. But now it is playoff time and Howard is plenty experienced when it comes to what the post season will throw at him and his teammates. Plus, I'm banking on him following arguably the most important line in the Soldier's Creed and that is "Mission First". Which is the championship. Josh Smith and Al Horford can collapse and switch all they want, but Dwight Howard is too much of a force down low for any Atlanta defender to contain. This secret requires to clearance to ascertain.

The Hawks defense will be what does them in in this series. Unless the Magic forget that the only way to score points is for the ball to go through the net, then I find it difficult to imagine this lasting past 5 games. Which in essence, is me saying the Magic can really only beat themselves by having poor shooting nights. Still unbeknownst to most is the status of the Magic's best 3 point shooter in JJ Redick who missed the last 17 games to injury. How much use he can be when he is cleared to play will bear watching. Jason Richardson and Hedo Turkoglu have both come up big in playoff's past and will be counted on much more now than during the regular season, especially in defending Joe Johnson on the wing.

What also will be worth watching, more for the Magic going forward, is the play of Gilbert Arenas and Jamal Crawford. These are each team's best scoring options off the bench. Despite Crawford's surprising down year, he is a legit scorer and cannot be left alone on the floor. Arenas continues to be an enigma. Is he the guy who shoots like me on the playground or the guy who does his job for 25 points in the teams 50th win?

Also, returning for the Magic is Quentin Richardson who alone is tougher than the entire Atlanta squad, something that is extremely important now that the games mean more. Ryan Anderson needs to consistently play as he did in Howard's absence and Brandon Bass needs to be of assistance to Dwight down low. Not to be lost in all of this is the psychological advantage the Magic have. They know they can beat the Hawks in the playoffs and so does Atlanta evidenced by the largest playoff point margin of victory in last year's match up. It will do the Magic some good to have some competition in this round as most accounts don't have the Bulls doing much more than ripping off the warm ups and quickly putting them back on against the Pacers. They will be waiting in round 2. If the Magic can go in to that series having endured some adversity, it could bode well for them moving forward. With that said...

Magic in 5

Game Theory Radio Update

2011-03-23T17:33:00.003-04:00

Yes Theorists, I know this space has been rather dormant as of late. That is because I am going over new site designs as I feel this current outfit has reached its stylistic peak. So, while I have been doing that, I have kept busy on the Twitter side of the house which you can find and follow me @GameTheoryRadio . That stays current, especially with my takes on everything in addition to the sports takes that usually reside here in monopoly form. So if you have been clamoring for this space to be updated, worry not, it shall be shortly. But in the mean time you can get your fix of myself on Twitter and of course with the show that this page subsidizes on Blog Talk Radio at www.blogtalkradio.com/gametheory. Get on it Theorists! And keep checking for the unveiling of the new website fashion. Do it.

Letter to NFL Fans From Commissioner Roger Goodell

2011-03-12T12:56:00.001-05:00

For those who did not read it, I am posting it in this well read space.

Dear NFL Fan,

When I wrote to you last on behalf of the NFL, we promised you that we would work tirelessly to find a collectively bargained solution to our differences with the players' union. Subsequent to that letter to you, we agreed that the fastest way to a fair agreement was for everyone to work together through a mediation process. For the last three weeks I have personally attended every session of mediation, which is a process our clubs sincerely believe in.

Unfortunately, I have to tell you that earlier today the players' union walked away from mediation and collective bargaining and has initiated litigation against the clubs. In an effort to get a fair agreement now, our clubs offered a deal today that was, among other things, designed to have no adverse financial impact on veteran players in the early years, and would have met the players’ financial demands in the latter years of the agreement.

The proposal we made included an offer to narrow the player compensation gap that existed in the negotiations by splitting the difference; guarantee a reallocation of savings from first-round rookies to veterans and retirees without negatively affecting compensation for rounds 2-7; no compensation reduction for veterans; implement new year-round health and safety rules; retain the current 16-4 season format for at least two years with any subsequent changes subject to the approval of the league and union; and establish a new legacy fund for retired players ($82 million contributed by the owners over the next two years).

It was a deal that offered compromise, and would have ensured the well-being of our players and guaranteed the long-term future for the fans of the great game we all love so much. It was a deal where everyone would prosper.

We remain committed to collective bargaining and the federal mediation process until an agreement is reached, and call on the union to return to negotiations immediately. NFL players, clubs, and fans want an agreement. The only place it can be reached is at the bargaining table.

While we are disappointed with the union's actions, we remain steadfastly committed to reaching an agreement that serves the best interest of NFL players, clubs and fans, and thank you for your continued support of our League. First and foremost it is your passion for the game that drives us all, and we will not lose sight of this as we continue to work for a deal that works for everyone.

Yours,
Roger Goodell

Orlando Magic Win 4th Straight Against The Heat; Heat Burn Themselves

2011-03-04T20:12:00.003-05:00

For 2 and a half quarters, the Miami Heat toyed with the Orlando Magic leading by as many as 24. Then the Magic went on a 40-9 run including 18-0 during that time span. The Heat threw everyone at Dwight Howard who repeatedly kicked out to his wing players who knocked down three point shot after three point shot. That is how the Magic kill you and that is how they also kill themselves, as evidenced by what is on display in the first half at home to the Chicago Bulls. Right now they can't hit anything from the three point grid square. But lets stay focused on last night's victory.

What did the Magic learn? They learned that they still have a heart that beats when adversity strikes, they've demonstrated that since their leader, Dwight Howard, called them out after an embarrassing home loss after the All-Star break to the beyond lowly Sacramento Kings. They learned that maybe head coach Stan Van Gundy is on to something every time he beats that "PLAY DEFENSE" drum of his. Did it really take Howard's veiled pep talk to motivate his teammates? Maybe. We take for granted that pro athletes should be giving 100% every breath they take. But you don't do it every day at work or school or whatever it is you do during your day, why act shocked when athletes lack the same focus from time to time? At least they responded the way Howard and Magic fans were hoping they would. If anything they should be convinced after the come from behind wins over the Knicks and the Heat paired with the blow out of the Oklahoma City Thunder that they can beat any team in this league. And they should throw up the biggest mental road block they can find that proves they can lose to any team in this league as well as demonstrated by the loss to the Kings. If they can remain focused and play the way they have as of late down the stretch and into the playoffs, the sky is the limit for this team. First, they need to improve their playoff seeding and hope for more than one home series.

What did the Heat learn? Well for starters, they have little behind their starters. Their bench was terrible and the addition of Mike Bibby improves them on paper but on the floor, only time can remedy that scenario. The complete lack of defensive effort and offensive execution in surrendering that 24 point lead was the only thing more impressive than how they acquired it. Dwyane Wade forgot he had to make a shot in the second half and Lebron James forgot he had to score points in the 4th quarter as well. Chris Bosh is another forgetful story altogether. Piling on the rest of the team is not needed at this point. They aren't the 321 million dollar gorilla on the floor. Fast forwarding to the end of the game where they are down 99-96 and needing only a 3 point shot to tie, what do they draw up? Mike Miller off a screen? Wade or James penetration and look for a foul? No, Chris Bosh for 3. Of course he missed and where did the ball find itself at next? Lebron James uncontested for a 3 point shot which we all know was horribly off. As have the last 3 game winning shot attempts for the ESPN crowned king. Why is the ball not in the only killer's hands on that team, Dwyane Wade at the end of games? The time for placating James is over. If you're a Heat fan, the time for winning should be now and in close games, the player employed by your team that has proven he can do that and who should still be getting the chance to do so is not Lebron James, its the guy who already has the ring. Either the Heat start letting him lead again, or they will find themselves following James in the only thing he has done best so far in his career, losing playoff series that they should win.

Carmelo Anthony And Derron Williams Traded. Who's Next?

2011-02-23T17:43:00.006-05:00

We all knew the Anthony deal was a matter of time, 6 months time really. But out of nowhere is the New Jersey Nets acquisition of All-Star Point Guard Derron Williams from the Utah Jazz. After going down swinging in the Anthony sweepstakes, losing out to the soon to be cross borough rival New York Knicks, Nets owner Mikhail Prokhorov was able to get the big name he will need before bringing his team to Brooklyn in 2012 and also allows him to kind of, sort of, upstage the Carmelo Anthony signing on press conference day.

Going forward, the Eastern Conference as a whole has become that much better and deeper. Next season there will be 6 teams with legitimate NBA superstars on their rosters in the Miami Heat, Chicago Bulls, Orlando Magic, New York Knicks, New Jersey Nets and the Boston Celtics. This also means sleepwalking towards the NBA playoffs in the East just got that much more difficult. All 6 of those teams should be in provided the Nets grab some more players in the off-season to surround Williams and Center Brooke Lopez with. They have the draft picks upcoming to do so and will be a team worth watching moving forward, especially as the Big 3 in Boston begin their swan song.

What this means for the 2012 free agency period, the next time we will see super stars potentially on the move, obviously comes down to whatever is negotiated in this next collective bargaining agreement. The two biggest names are Dwight Howard and Chris Paul who have a fraternal connection in that their fathers are pals. New Orleans isn't an option. Can Otis Smith of the Magic do enough with the roster to clear enough space for Paul? Will they plot to take their collective talents to a city that could use a Point Guard and a Center in the prime of their careers, like Los Angeles? The Lakers will have maybe one more run with Kobe at that point or maybe the Clippers realize what they have in stud Blake Griffin and opt to upstage their rent sharing brethren. Maybe Howard joins Williams in Brooklyn. What about Chicago? In this era of super stars calling the shots, anything is possible. It will however, come down to the collective bargaining agreement. Neither player will go anywhere if the owners and the league get the Franchise Player tag they are looking for. But make no mistake about it, Dwight Howard and Chris Paul have been watching and taking notes Lebron James style. We are more than a year and a half away but the speculation has begun and won't stop until these player's situations are resolved.

Write that down.

Kobe Bryant Wins NBA All-Star MVP.....Yaaay!

2011-02-21T17:15:00.003-05:00

How exciting Theorists! Actually, early on, it kind of was. The Western Conference's version of their All-Star team defeated the Eastern Conferences variety 148-143 costing me my bet of the Under (273) and ML on the East. Yes, it is that bad Theorists.

Kobe Bryant from the opening minutes was destined for the MVP after taking off on his bad wheels and throwing down a dunk that started on the opposite side of the rim. If that's how you would describe it, I know I just did. He went on to collect 37 points and 14 rebounds. The stats are inconsequential, I know, especially when the only defense being played inside the Forum is by the security staff. But the show is what counts and these guys got out and ran and were exciting to watch. It solidifies the logical minded persons opinion that the NBA is filled with the best athletes in the world. Still, I can't help but wonder what it would be like if the game was treated with the passion of an NBA Finals. I now there is no way that could ever happen because the incentive isn't there. But watching a televised pick up game where the two sides don't select teams can get a little too predictable. Perhaps first one to 21 and switch teams? That won't happen either. Still I would like to see some sort of game played between the league's best players and not just a shoot around where they keep score. It holds my attention for a quarter at most and then nothing is new. Lebron James gets out ahead of the "defense" and dunks, Deron Williams throws a lob to Blake Griffin on a break, Dwight Howard catches a lob from half court, Kobe dunks again, Kevin Durant dunks, Chris Bosh dunks, Tim Duncan dunks, Dirk Novitski blocks a shot (didn't expect that), you get the idea. It's compelling to a point and then it just becomes expected.

Going forward, there really is no viable solution without just monetary compensation and incentive for the players. They are there to put on a show and that they do. But a basketball game consists of offense AND defense. Maybe no one in attendance cares, but if they knew they would get equal effort on both sides of the floor, imagine the drama that would unfold then real or imagined. Do it. Until that happens, we get to see Kobe Bryant do the unexpected. Grab 14 rebounds.

Game Theory Update

2011-02-16T18:12:00.002-05:00

Welcome me back Theorists! Thank you. Though I have not been far, I have been away and no, not in hiding after my losing Super Bowl pick. The logic was sound, the Steelers execution however left something to be desired. With that said, we move on.

Game Theory Radio at www.blogtalkradio.com/gametheory will be back on the airwaves tomorrow night, which is Thursday, February 17 for those of you not in viewing range of a calendar, at 9pm eastern banking hours. What this means for you is that you should affix your web browser to the aforementioned address and massage your ears to my voice. Or, should you not be able to do so because of some unapproved reason, you may always download it in podcast form like 97% of you do anyway. I've got a lot of intel for you and while the gambling portion of the show is for the most part complete until the next football season begins, I will provide you with some money making opportunities as I see them.

Also, this space will go back to my columns/opinions on the happenings in sport. If not daily, you should be viewing for multiple pieces each week. This is my gift to you and your eyes are your gift to me. And after all, isn't it better to give than receive? Indeed Theorists. Lets get started. See you tomorrow night. At 9pm. On www.blogtalkradio.com/gametheory. Be there.

Do it.

Game Theory Super Bowl Pick

2011-02-04T19:49:00.002-05:00

We have finally arrived at the culmination of our money making season Theorists, Super Bowl 45. I have provided you with a down, in comparison to my site history, but profitable season over all and now it is time to take all or at least a healthy portion of your profits for one last taking down of Vegas. Prepare to copy:

Pittsburgh +3 Vs Green Bay- I can't remember the last time I was this excited to get points Theorists. A 2 time Super Bowl champion quarterback with a team of Super Bowl champions and veterans behind him are under dogs against a heavily depleted Green Bay Packers team. A team, that was very fortunate to survive it's conference championship game without further damage as Aaron Rodgers was pummeled by Julius Peppers and Brian Urlacher. Still gone and will be completely gone is the running game of the Packers as Starks somehow parlayed his 123 yard performance against the bad Eagles front 4 into nation wide effusive praise. How he will perform for the first time in pass protection against a 3-4 will be worth watching, especially with James Harrison and Lamar Woodley coming off the edges and through the gaps. Ben Roethlisberger has long established himself as a big game quarterback and despite periods of inefficiency, when his team needs him, he answers the call and always with points. Rashard Mendenhall has to have a powerful game on the ground converting short yardage downs. Everyone knows about Mike Wallace and Hines Ward but key for the Steelers, much like against the Ravens, will be the production of Antonio Brown. The Packers secondary is extremely weak after Charles Woodson and Tramon Williams and their safety's are not the fleetest of foot. Conversely, the secondary of the Steelers can have the same words of defeatism applied to them. So what is the difference maker on defense? Pressure. The Steelers have to account for Clay Matthews and Woodson. The Packers have to be cognisant of Woodley, Harrison, and DPOY Troy Polamalu. The Packers need to be more disciplined in coverage where the Steelers can be more aggressive in pressuring Rodgers. Both Quarterbacks are excellent at extending the play but only Roethlisberger is built to withstand the pounding doing so provides. Rodgers after a hot start in Chicago was not the same quarterback after he got hit by Peppers and threw two interceptions and no touchdowns. He was definitely cooled in the second half. How he responds early bares watching. Roethlisberger stands up to punishment much better and is bigger than any of the rushers the Packers will send after him. This game will definitely be decided by who can withstand the physicality the best.

Now, for some numbers to support the pick. Remember I said how excited I was to get points with the Steelers? It's because they are 8-2 as underdog over the past 3 seasons ATS including 3-1 this season. They respond to adversity well, real or provided by Vegas. The Packers are essentially a .500 team against the number as a favorite and tend to play better as a touchdown favorite than as a field goal favorite which means, in games where they are thought as evenly matched, they play to that number rather than exceed it. Also, in his lone game against a good 3-4 defense this year for Rodgers against the Jets, he didn't throw a TD pass, completed 44% of his passes for 170 yards and had a passer rating of 59.7. Roethlisberger lives in a division and conference that swears by it. The Steelers aren't here by happenstance. They have arguably the best all around head coach in Mike Tomlin and defensive coordinator in Dick Lebeau. Mike McCarthy is a great offensive mind but I think will run into the learning curve and fall short in his quest for the first championship in the post-Favre era. Steelers win and cover.

GO GET PAID!!(I will)

In money we trust.

Game Theory Recap-Conference Championships

2011-01-26T18:43:00.003-05:00

This is extremely overdue and came after the disaster of a recap show last night on www.blogtalkradio.com/gametheory but it is necessary in order to move the site page forward. 1-1 bringing the season tally to 73-70-4 with 1 gigantic, all-in game remaining. Sneak peak; who likes points? There will be a big Takedown show next week with the upcoming Super Bowl and the UFC with Silva Vs Belfort. Get ready Theorists, money awaits.

Also, I'd like to take this time and space to state that with the closing of the football season, I am debating to going to a once a week format on the show but with longer time and more detailed takes. My schedule is a mess right now but I am in no means cashing out, quite the contrary. Further more, you will see the return of this internet address to a more column/opinion based place of brilliance like it has always been. That, I am sure you will enjoy.

Feel free to share your thoughts on the matter or any matter for that matter. How many times can I use the word "matter" in one sentence? Does it matter?

gametheoryradio@gmail.com or tweet at me @GameTheoryRadio

Do it.

Game Theory NFL Picks Conference Championship Round

2011-01-22T13:41:00.002-05:00

The sun is setting on this NFL season full of monetary handouts. While we soon will be shifting from football back to the world of poker for our Vegas pillaging, we still have 3 games counting the Super Bowl left to provide us with a healthy off-season of buy-ins. Prepare to copy:

Chicago +4 Vs Green Bay- Good time to resort back to the "home dog" theory, Theorists, since that's what we do here is deal with Game Theory, hence the name.....back to the logic. I gotta go with a home team in the playoffs, especially the biggest possible game that a team could host getting points against a team that they themselves beat and both games were decided by a combined 10 points. This is not blow out territory, nor is this a game in my opinion that will be decided by much more than a field goal. A field goal all around will provide us with profit. Jay Cutler came to his playoff debut party with a 4 touchdown game, including 2 on the ground. For all of the talk about Aaraon Rodgers mobility, Jay Cutler has the advantage with his feet. Also, working in the Bears favor is their offensive balance that they have established with Matt Forte and Chester Taylor, and they have run against good defenses since the bye week. The Packers are getting a lot of run with James Starks after his great game against the Eagles, but he wasn't a difference maker against the Falcons, nor was he really needed in his defense. Lost however is the front four's which he performed against and they don't hold up to the Bears defensive line. Desmond Clark of the Bears, their best blocking TE will be on the field in max protect to slow down the rush of Clay Matthews, something that will be key in enabling Cutler to do more with his arm than his feet. Rookie RT Jamarcus Webb has improved each game and will have to play his best Sunday. All things said, the Bears secondary will bear watching with SS Chris Harris still banged up from the game with Seattle. How they keep they Packers WR's in front of them will be vital to their success. Look for a close game, which is all we are after.

Pittsburgh -3 Vs Jets- Mark Sanchez of the Jets played one of his best games of his career in a spot where I didn't think it were possible. Now I continue my nay saying by stating that I don't think he can do it again despite his 4 post season road victories already in his skinny jeans pocket. Troy Polamalu will be back as will Heath Miller who both were absent the last time these two teams met and their value cannot be understated. In a game that is sure to be physical, there isn't a team more physical in the league than the Steelers, despite what the Jets mouths would have you believe. Shonne Greene had a solid game on the ground against the Patriots but I don't think he will enjoy the same success against the Steelers playing with everything to lose on their home turf. It is rare that road teams continue winning in the playoffs unless they are vastly superior than their opponent. Raise your hand if you think the Jets are a vastly superior opponent than the Steelers? I see no hands, probably because I can't see my audience but that is neither here nor there. A lot of talk has centered around Darrell Revis lining up on Hines Ward. That leaves Mike Wallace matched with Cromartie who he can beat down field with a slow Jets safety corps that he should as well be able to get past enough times for Roethlisberger to connect for the big plays Wallace can provide. Rashard Mendenhall is a bigger back that can wear down the Jets up front unlike the Patriots were able to with Woodhead and Green-Ellis. Close game until the 4th where the Steelers pull away.

GO GET PAID!!(I Will)

Game Theory Divisional Round Recap

2011-01-17T18:54:00.002-05:00

Another 3-1 and another Jets cover to ruin our flirtation with perfection bringing the yearly tally to 72-69-4. Respectable, profitable, but unacceptable nonetheless. You deserve better so I shall endeavor to provide that with 3 games remaining in the 2010 NFL season. Look I know its 2011 but work with me here.

Catch the Game Theory Recap Show MLK Edition tonight at 9pm EST at www.blogtalkradio.com/gametheory. You will thank me and yourself if you do. Practice it now, say "Thank you self for listening to Game Theory Radio. I feel much better about myself." See how easy that was?

Game Theory NFL Picks Divisional Round

2011-01-13T19:50:00.003-05:00

Another full slate of playoff money to delve into Theorists. Absolutely the best time of the year, especially if you still have a pony or a slightly malnourished dog in the race! What the hell are we waiting for? Prepare to copy:

Pittsburgh -3 Vs Ravens- The best match up gets served up first on Saturday. Everyone knows the back story between these two teams. There is mutual respect and an equal amount of legitimate hatred. The last time these two teams met, the Ravens gave Big Ben free rhinoplasty and the Head Surgeon, er, coach, John Harbaugh was glad the procedure went as well as it did. Now we've got some interesting numbers to throw out at you but before we do that, allow me to reiterate that the Ravens always stand ready to deploy in the playoffs on the road and the Steelers have a problem with losing in the month of January, in fact, they haven't over the past 3 years. With that said, the Ravens are 8-2 ATS as a road underdog of 3 points or less. However, comma, the Steelers are 5-1 ATS in their division, which includes a starting quarterback under contract that is 8-2 all time against the Ravens. This is a bad spread for everyone involved, including Vegas as they will probably be returning a lot of money in a push. But I will take the smart pick and hopefully equally intelligent money by going with the Steelers.

Green Bay +3 At Atlanta- Bad match up here for the Falcons. Working in the favor of the incoming Packers is the knowledge of what to expect in the Georgia Dome having already played there and losing a close game that they actually gift wrapped for the Falcons. Aaron Rodgers has become the closest thing the NFC has to Tom Brady in a guy that has laser guided accuracy and the ability to never get rattled under any circumstance. Coupled with those attributes are his scrambling ability and his touch on the deep ball to Greg Jennings. Matt Ryan has some playoff experience, albeit in a losing effort on the road when he was but a wee rookie. The defenses are what will decide this game and I don't think there is a unit left in the playoffs right now playing better than the Green Bay Packers. Over the past 3 weeks in must win games, they have only allowed 36 points. Oddly enough, the Packers are 0-6 ATS when playing the NFC South and the Falcons are 6-0 when doing so over the past 3 years. However, sometimes numbers don't illuminate what is going on right now. The Packers are peaking and the Falcons defense, I don't think, is going to be able to contain Rodgers for 4 quarters. Packers cover.

Chicago -10 Vs Seattle- Big number here Theorists but the situation is completely different for the Seahawks as they are now away from the nest and the success of Qwest Field. They are a different team on the road and are but 3-10 ATS when playing a team with a winning record in the second half of the season, and additionally, 7-17 on the road ATS. In the common man's dialect, they aren't any good as tourists. The Bears have some payback on their mind's as they were dealt a loss at the hands of Seattle earlier in the year before the bye week when the team figured out how to actually play again and also when they were on their first attempt with the current offensive line. Also absent from that game was All-Pro linebacker Lance Briggs who has a knack for big plays against the Seahawks. These teams have played each other to a stalemate over the past several seasons, each losing at home in the regular season but the Bears did take them down on their path to the Superbowl in 2006. A lot of the characters are the same in this story. The key will be the play of one former Santa Claus, Indiana resident Jay Cutler making his first start. If he has a good game, this won't be close as the defense will remove Marshawn Lynch as a threat and key on Mike Williams this time around. If Cutler begins to play catch with the wrong team, then we already know how this story will end for Bears fans. I think Cutler plays a great game and the Bears host the NFC Championship against the Packers. Write that down.

New England -9 Vs Jets- Time to play skee-ball with the final margin of victory in this one. Playoff football comes down to quarterback play. Did anyone watch just how poorly Mark Sanchez attempted forward passes against the Colts? I know I bang on him every week it seems but when he plays good, I will give him his just due. But he hasn't done that in a while and his team has zero shot at being competitive if he plays bad on Sunday. Tom Brady conversely, is a man on a mission now and that mission is to assassinate with extreme prejudice one Antonio Cromartie, cornerback for the New York Jets. If the OH (Original Hoodie) does what I think he will, than Cromartie may be headed for the waiver wire before he heads to the airport. The Jets have the trends on their side as they are 5-1 ATS in January games over the past seasons but that will have to be updated to 5-2 by the time the game clock expires. I don't see any way that Mark Sanchez can play good enough and I don't the Jets can play disciplined enough on defense to stop all of the offensive options the Patriots have, especially when they are in the defensive hurry up and have to keep dropping the gatorade and snuggie on the sidelines after another Sanchez turnover. Patriots roll.

GO GET PAID!!(I Will)

Game Theory Wildcard Weekend Recap

2011-01-11T18:59:00.003-05:00

3-1 Theorists over the weekend with only the Colts failing to follow Game Theory directives. Not a problem, we still push our record up to 69-68-4 for the season with 2 more rounds and the Super Bowl to go. Stick with it Theorists, for there is money involved as always.

Catch the Recap Show tonight at 9pm EST at www.blogtalkradio.com/gametheory

Do it.

Game Theory NFL Playoff Picks Wildcard Round

2011-01-05T20:19:00.003-05:00

Here we are Theorists, big playoff weekend and giving you all 4 games. It's time to take the cash you made throughout the regular season and dollar up for these final games. Don't go all in until the Super Bowl, at least that's what I wait for. How you spread your units around is a personal decision. With that public service announcement said, let's get profitable:

Seattle +11 Vs New Orleans- So the Seahawks get to host a playoff game, good for them but you know my stance on that. That aside, the Saint's are going to have a rough go of it with yet another running back added to the Austin Collie Club in Pierre Thomas. Who's left for Drew Brees to hand off to? No idea. Just like Seattle still has no idea who will take snaps under center for them. The Saint's are a bad January team against the number with a retched 3-10 record as evidence. Drew Brees despite his effectiveness overall, has been quite turnover prone himself this year with 22 interceptions. That isn't good and a lot of that is because of the added pressure to make more plays from a lack of a consistent running game. There will be some issues with crowd noise and how the Saints respond to that, especially after losing the way they did in the last week of the season against the Bucs, will set the tone for the game. I like them for the win but I'll take 11 points anytime I can get them.

Colts -3 Vs Jets- I for one am not fooled any longer by the Rex Ryan bravado. It's lost its luster and the drama surrounding this team all year will finally come to a head when they take the field for a meaningful game. Let's look at the skill positions. Santonio Holmes is a big game performer as evidenced by his Super Bowl MVP but that is a wash with the Colts Reggie Wayne. Quarterback is a no brainer and if you want to trust Mark Sanchez with your money in the playoffs on the road, despite some success last year, by all means, good luck with that. I'll take the Hall of Famer. Neither team's running game has been overly impressive and are heading in opposite directions coming into this game. I know Joe McKnight had a big garbage time game to close out the season and it will be interesting to see if they work him in on a few snaps, but I don't think the playoffs is a time you gamble on unproven players. The Colts defense has begun to come around and Manning is throwing to the right team again. The Jets defense is not as scary as advertised and can be scored on. They've had the doors blown off of them by the Patriots and the Bears. I don't see that big of a win here for the Colts but I know Mark Sanchez can't win this game for his team.

Baltimore -3 At Kansas City- The Oakland Raiders took apart the Chiefs last week by dominating them up front. Who on that Chiefs line is going to stop Haloti Ngata from tearing apart Matt Cassel and plugging the rushing lanes for Jamaal Charles and Thomas Jones? Terrel Suggs is dangerous off the edge and will pressure Cassel from the blind side and Ed Reed and Ray Lewis are there to make just enough plays as they always seem to do in big games. They went on the road last year with the same team and steamboat willied the Patriots so there is nothing to say they can't get a road win. I don't like how KC closed out the season nor do I like the internal rift that exists with coach Todd Haley and the sooner than later to be leaving Charlie Weis. Sounds like a team waiting to implode at the wrong time, when they can't afford to. John Harbaugh is a solid playoff coach and he has the guys that can win for him in any environment. This number should be higher based on Baltimore's 5-1 ATS success over the past 3 seasons but it isn't so, bad for Vegas, good for us. Ravens roll.

Green Bay +3 At Philadelphia- Mike Vick is banged up at the wrong time and will be facing an active, confusing defense led by Clay Matthews off the edge and Charles Woodson in the secondary. These guys played one of the best defensive games I saw all season last week against the Bears as they completely shut down Jay Cutler. Cutler can make a lot of plays with his feet but never had a chance because there was no space or lanes. They will employ that strategy against Vick and force him to take his eyes off his receivers down field and focus on the rush. When that happens, so will turnovers. Desean Jackson for all of his big play ability disappears too much. Keeping Lesean McCoy in check will be pivotal as he is the difference maker here on the ground. The Packers Aaron Rodgers and Greg Jennings will have plenty of opportunities for the big play down field and should connect more than once. The Eagles are not great in pass coverage and who knows from week to week how healthy Asante Samuel will be. Rodgers accuracy and ability to take what the defense gift wraps for him will be on display all day as the Packers will march methodically up and down the field all game long. Getting touchdowns is a must however as Vick can bring his team back from large deficits like he did against the Giants and almost did against the Bears. If they get to him on defense early, it will be a long day for the Eagles.

Go Get Paid!!(I Will)

Game Theory Recap Week 17

2011-01-03T19:08:00.003-05:00

Welcome to the end of another NFL regular season Theorists. Since we were sans recap post last week, I'll combine them and profess my 5-5 record bringing me to 66-67-4 ATS for the year with playoffs still to come. More money to come as well. Stand by.

Catch the Recap show tomorrow night at www.blogtalkradio.com/gametheory

Do it.

Game Theory NFL Picks Week 17

2010-12-31T11:08:00.004-05:00

Last weekend of regular season NFL money Theorists. I'll drop some playoff picks and the Naty title game pick before it's commencing as well in the future. Before that however, we've got money to pry from the coffers of Vegas. Shall we? We shall:

Houston -3 Vs Jacksonville- No David Garrard + No Maurice Jones-Drew = Money! Write that down. No word on whether or not that time wasting, fire Gary Kubiak "rally" went down but by all accounts, it shouldn't matter. They're at home attempting to give their fans something to once again look forward to for next year. They have Arian Foster and Matt Schaub who should both have equally great and meaningless performances for our bottom line. Jacksonville is used to laying down at the end of the season as they are an impressive 2-9 ATS in the last 4 weeks of the season in the past 3 years. Can't wait for that 18 game schedule huh Theorists? More time for the Jags to quit per Jacksonville SOP. Take the Texans and the money.

Cleveland +6 Vs Pittsburgh- Great spot here for the Browns. No pressure and an underdog between 3.5-10 points. That's when they play their best and are 10-3 against that number in the past 3 seasons. Steelers are still reaching for that first round bye over Baltimore so yes, you should get a full effort from them. But I think common sense will begin to take over and they will try and keep Ben from taking any unnecessary hits as he has been banged up enough lately and his beak is still breathing air from the wrong direction. The Browns have a pretty solid pass defense with rookie Joe Haden who they will stay away from. Also, Peyton Hillis is a tad upset about that Pro Bowl snub and should have an angry day on the ground where the Steelers are still short handed. Look ahead mentality will take place and the Browns should cover. Finally.

Atlanta -14 Vs Carolina- Bet it down all you want but my money still tells me to take the Falcons based on the Monday night misstep. The Falcons have 12 wins but their playoff fate actually comes down to this game. Why? Because they got complacent against a hungry team in the Saints. Well, the Panthers aren't hungry and they aren't any good. It's actually the perfect match up for Atlanta to get its playoff confidence back. The defense needs to play the way they did against New Orleans as they were the only members wearing Falcons attire that performed. But they will have to be ready for Jonathon Stewart who went for more than 130 on them a few weeks back. If they contain him, then they can play the tip drill game in the secondary and see if every defensive back can collect an interception from the latest Notre Dame bust Jimmy Clausen who likes having a 1 to 4 TD to INT ratio and who also wishes he was back playing Navy again. Wait, he couldn't beat them either. Falcons roll. Panther's pack for the off season at half time.

St. Louis -3 At Seattle- Who would have thought the NFC West division title would come down to this game pitting two losing teams against each other? Well maybe everyone did but no one thought the Rams with a rookie QB under center would be a participant. Sam Bradford is your rookie of the year and he now gets a chance to play in another big game, which he is more than accustomed to from his Oklahoma days, while Seattle gives the ball to Charlie Whitehurst. Good luck with that. Also, the defense of Seattle just got bowled over by Legarrette Blount and now they have a bigger battering ram in Steven Jackson who will replicate the feat and give Bradford time to make plays down field because of his ground game threat. I'm not sold on the Rams defense which still needs some pieces, but I'm less sold on a Seahawks squad that is flirting with surrendering 400 yards a game. That's bad. Yes they are at home and that will help early but talent wins out and as funny as it may have been to say at the beginning of the season, St. Louis is the most talented at the positions that matter most.

San Diego -3 At Denver- I am convinced Tebow's theme song should be the Kanye West's "Jesus Walks" if this were 2003. But it's 2010 and music much like the Denver Broncos has gotten much worse since then. The Chargers managed to squander another season, mostly by playing a game of contract chicken with the players who could have helped them the most to avoid this situation. Phillip Rivers hates losing, especially to Denver even without Cutler there to shout at from the sidelines. The Chargers will pummel this Denver defense and there will be no 2nd half comebacks from Jesus this time around. If anything, the Broncos might be better served having Tebow go both ways on Sunday since no one on their defense can tackle or defend the forward pass. San Diego should run away and hide in this one and hide they should after the year they had.

GO GET PAID!!(I will)

Listen or download me weekly at www.blogtalkradio.com/gametheory

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Orlando Magic Win 4th Straight

2010-12-28T23:38:00.002-05:00

It was a game that seemed to be harder than it needed to be during the first 3 quarters for the Magic as they took a 1 point lead into the final period. 35 points later, the Cleveland Cavs knew they were conquered. Gilbert Arenas played his best game since joining the team with 22 points and 11 assists and did a lot of that in tandem with Jameer Nelson. Early on Arenas did a good job of finding JJ Redick in motion leading to some easy looks which Redick knocked down. His floor vision overall was easily what stood out though and if it can be replicated consistently, especially on nights like this where Dwight Howard was more man than Super, this team is going to be a difficult match up for anyone moving forward. The 4 other positions outside of Howard are interchangeable and there isn't much drop off or gain either way which gives coach Stan Van Gundy an array of options depending on the opposition. Jason Richardson showed his scoring prowess early as well, draining a multitude of 3's in the first quarter to keep the Magic close as the Cavs were threatening to run away with 33 points to start things off. The best thing about the new additions is that either player can get hot and carry this team in stretches each night. Hedo did it last night, Richardson did it early, Arenas carried it home.

The Magic will be back in action at home for a few games now starting Thursday against the new look Knicks. It was my belief that the Magic needed to at least be at 20 wins going into the new year to feel good about themselves and that was before the trade. At 20-12 and with 4 in a row, the Magic are positioning themselves for a strong run towards the playoffs. Remember, this team has only played together 6 games and had 1 full practice. Expect more rather than less going forward. Scary.

Magic Get A Big Win, Phase One Of Changes Complete

2010-12-26T19:45:00.001-05:00

First and foremost, the Orlando Magic got a big win against the Boston Celtics despite NBA official Bob Delaney refusing to let two of the biggest players figuratively and literally participate in any reindeer games. The NBA needs to fix the way Dwight Howard and Shaq are officiated, especially come playoff time. Collectively they are over 600 pounds and they play like it. So let them.

The 2.0 version of this seasons Magic have begun to take shape with two premier wins over the Spurs and Celtics, owners of the two best records in the league. The Magic's second unit is just as effective arguably with Howard as the first, especially when Gilbert Arenas' shots remember to go in the basket. Another big home game looms on Thursday with the new look Knicks.

Secondly, www.gametheoryradio.com is now functional. You can ignore my antiquated former Banter Theory name. More news in the coming days. Write that down.

Orlando Magic Vs San Antonio Spurs Recap

2010-12-23T22:29:00.004-05:00

Not much went wrong for the Orlando Magic tonight. The arena emptied long before the game was over for the right reasons this time. JJ Redick was a perfect 5-5 from 3 point land continuing what he started against Dallas. Overall, the Magic hit 13 shots from the 3 point grid square in their 123-101 chokeout of the Spurs. Dwight Howard led all scores with 29 and collected 14 rebounds. For the first time since the trade of Rashard Lewis and Vince Carter, the Magic played a complete game and were deadly from beyond the 3 point line as well as from the field. They set a new season in fast break points and were unguardable for the entire game. Sure the Spurs were coming off of a back to back, but this was the owner of the NBA's best record. Its a big win Magic fans and the first signature win of the new era. The Christmas day match up with the Boston Celtics will give a definitive answer, at least for the month of December, of how the Magic match up with the Eastern conferences best team. If Dwight Howard keeps playing the way he has over the last 5 games, there is no telling where this team will be by the All-Star break. As it stands now, they are 3.5 games behind the Heat. They need to chase them down first and will get the opportunity. For tonight, the Magic showed that they don't need much depth behind Howard as they are still tall at the forward positions, but the Celtics have a ton of big bodies to throw at Howard. After catching 2 quick fouls, Howard was able to play the rest of the night foul free yet still remain a factor on the defensive end. That will play a major role as this team continues to find its new identity in the post Carter and Lewis era.

Overall, there isn't much the Magic didn't display tonight. Coach Stan Van Gundy did a great job of exploiting match ups and getting the right line up combinations in. When you shoot 60%, it's virtually impossible to lose.

We're ready for Christmas.

Orlando Magic Vs Spurs 3rd Quarter SITREP:

2010-12-23T21:52:00.002-05:00

I missed most of it tending to other business but the Magic are shooting 67% now, apparently fixated on no longer missing the rest of the night. The Spurs look tired and can't defend anyone. Dwight Howard has had a huge quarter with 11 and even collected a chest bump from coach Stan Van Gundy after going to the bench for a rest. The Spurs aren't having a bad offensive night, they just can't stop anyone defense. One of those nights for them. Too bad, so sad, bye bye. 4th quarter to follow for formality purposes only.

Orlando Magic Vs Spurs Halftime SITREP:

2010-12-23T20:45:00.003-05:00

Ryan Anderson and JJ Redick got things going to start the second quarter jumping the lead to 7. Dwight Howard was able to get going offensively despite his forced tentativeness at the defensive end. I said all along the new guys just needed to get going and make a few shots. And that's what they've done, as well as the entire team. In fact they hate missing shots as they're shooting 66% including 63% from the 3 point grid square at the break. Howard leads all scorers with 13 followed by Arenas with 12. The Blanket is cutting into my freshie time by ignoring the switchboard.

Orlando Magic Vs Spurs 1st Quarter SITREP:

2010-12-23T20:11:00.003-05:00

Dwight Howard found his way into early foul trouble based on the great acting of Tim Duncan. After jumping out to a lead, the Spurs were able to go on an 8-0 run as Howard went to the bench, exposing the lack of depth behind Howard as Ryan Anderson came in. The Spurs were unable to capitalize as Gilbert Arenas joined the scoring party and put the Magic back on top with 2 quick shots, including a 3 pointer. Jason Richardson looks to be having his way with Manu Ginobli on the offensive end and looks to be in the process of gathering a big night on the scoreboard. The key obviously going forward will be how long the Magic can keep Dwight Howard out of foul trouble.

Game Theory NFL Picks Week 16

2010-12-22T20:33:00.003-05:00

Winding down on the regular season now Theorists, so we have to be cognisant of playoff teams having "nothing more to play for" taking that attitude into some of their meaningless remaining games this time of year. Fortunately for us, there are a lot of teams still with a lot to play for and that should make for a game or two to drop some leftover Christmas cash on. Think of this as an early visit from the fat man. Only I'm 6'0 and 175lbs so....use your imagination if you want true Santa impersonation. Prepare to copy:

Oakland +3 Vs Indianapolis- Here's the type of game both teams are not used to having to play in December and that's a meaningful one. The Raiders are still alive but need some help and the Colts need to keep winning to hold off the Jags. Here's where Indy is going to run into a problem, stopping Darren McFadden and Michael Bush, two big backs that will give the undersized Colts defense issues. Zach Miller is healthy again as I said which gives Jason Campbell someone paid to catch the ball for him to throw to. The Colts I don't think will have much of an issue scoring points, it's keeping the Raiders from doing so. Austin Collie is once again back where he is most comfortable and that's Injured Reserve which means, Bad Peyton might make an appearance and play catch a few times with Namdi Asomouagh. This one comes down to final possession.

San Diego -7 At Cincinnati- The Bengal's, and I didn't really think I'd say this this year, but the Bengals will miss Austin Collie's IR battle buddy, Terrel Owens this weekend. Carson Palmer is going to have a bad day playing a hot team that needs to keep winning. The Bengals are relegated to playing for draft position per team SOP which means the Chargers and the healthy and once again productive Vincent Jackson are going to have a few meetings with Mr. End Zone. Cedric Benson will struggle to take pressure off of Palmer as San Diego hates giving up yards on the ground and with only Chad "That's not how you say 85 in Spanish" Ochocinco to focus on in the passing game, it's going to be one of those games where the fans race each other to see who can leave first. Chargers big.

Tampa Bay -6 Vs Seattle- Jet lag bowl for the Seahawks, I love getting late season games involving teams going cross country, especially when the home team is still convinced it has something to play for. Technically so does the road team but Pete Carrol isn't sure who is going to be his quarterback and they're 10-22 ATS as an underdog as it is. Lagarrette Blount has proved he's not only good at knocking out loud mouth Boise State players, he's also pretty good at carrying the football. I see a big day for him on the ground and I think Josh Freeman can make enough plays in the pass game to keep his Bucs alive and praying for a wildcard. If the defense is up to the task as well, this should be a healthy cover and nice addition to your bottom line.

Atlanta -3 Vs New Orleans- 2 domers going at it which will make for at the least a clean game to watch for a change on Monday Night Football. Matt Ryan is unbeatable in the Georgia Dome which usually means all good things must come to an end right? Wrong, too much still left at stake to play for. Mike Smith can't let up without a win here, otherwise even he wanted to sit a few guys down in the last game at Carolina, he won't be able to with the Saints on his heals. Drew Brees this year has been a bit turnover prone despite his otherwise overall efficiency. I see that being the turning point in the game late. One pick late with the Saints driving should be all it takes to get the Falcons a 4 point victory or so. Write that down.

Chicago -1 Vs Jets- Perfect spread for me and my money, basically a pick'em type of scenario if you have ever listened to the program. Rex Ryan is dealing with foot gate and the Bears are coming off of a division clinching, playoff berthing win on Monday Night. Both teams still with a lot to play for, but the Bears need it more. They need to win out essentially to hold off the Eagles and lock up that #2 seed and a first round bye. Mark Sanchez I don't think is still someone I'd give my money to on the road, even after the win they just secured in Pittsburgh last weekend. The Bears offensive line played probably its best game of the season, which is a good sign with the Jet's coming into town. Remember what the Patriots did to the Bears defense? The field nullified their speed, which should be exactly what happens to the Jets rushers, giving Cutler enough time to find the open man. Johnny Knox will get a chance to test the oft-injured hammy of Darrel Revis and a healthy dose of Matt Forte and Chester Taylor should see the Bears with a field goal win here. The key will be the field position game as Devin Hester has been blackballed from making any more returns. All it takes is one errant kick though to change the game. That could happen with the swirling wind conditions of Soldier Field by mistake. Bears by enough.

Catch the Vegas Takedown Show Live Thursday night at 9PM EST hosted this week by The Blanket. I will check in live from the Orlando Magic's game with the San Antonio Spurs.

GO GET PAID!!(We will)

Game Theory Recap Week 15

2010-12-22T20:29:00.003-05:00

Late to the party this week Theorists but I'm sure you are just as busy with Christmas knocking down our door. 2-4 last week bringing us to 61-62-4 on the year. Not exactly something to include in my letter to Santa. Time to fix it. Stand by.

Orlando Magic Get Better, Look Worse Against 76ers(Temporarily)

2010-12-19T08:35:00.005-05:00

The Orlando Magic decided to pull the plugs on the Vince Carter and Rashard Lewis experiments, sending both on a one-way road trip elsewhere. Carter along with Mickael Pietrus, Marcin Gortat and a 2011 first round draft pick are headed west to the Phoenix Suns for the return of Hedo Turkoglu, Jason Richardson and Earl Clark. Rashard Lewis is taking his mega millions to the home of the million man march for Gilbert Arenas. The Magic got instantly better and younger at two positions while losing their only true back up for Howard in Gortat. But the time for a move had long since come. Vince Carter never fit and had become more Half-Man, Half-Decaying than Half-Man, Half-Amazing. Rashard Lewis is a self-proclaimed 4th option with a 1st option contract. That's George Bush style fuzzy math. Credit Otis Smith for gambling once again on change. Easily the most active GM in the NBA since the Magic signed Rashard Lewis 4 years ago, the Magic's commitment to winning a championship cannot be questioned. Before the deal they had the highest payroll commitment in the league.

Win now is the mentality, but in reality they are still chasing the Boston Celtics and the Miami Heat, especially in the standings. The Magic got younger while everyone is still waiting for the Celtics to act their age. The Miami Heat are going to be there long after the Celtics aren't. And now they have to contend with the emerging Chicago Bulls and New York Knicks. With the acquisitions, they at least guarantee themselves a shot in the playoffs. Before the deal, all they could hope for was a second round exit at best.

Stan Van Gundy has a lot of decisions on his hands in terms of the starting line up. He said himself that Richardson, Arenas, or Turkoglu would have to come off the bench. How that goes over remains to be seen. The Magic have long had more than 5 players capable of starting. That still remains true. They just got 3 starters essentially for 2 spots in the lineup. Someone is going to have to acquiesce when it comes to playing time.

Momentarily, the Magic looked disinterested in losing to the Philadelphia 76ers at home. Playing with a short handed lineup of only 8 players, it was kind of expected but still disappointing to watch. Dwight Howard went for the quietest 26 points and 20 rebounds I've ever seen while everyone else struggled on both ends of the floor. Monday night is when we will see how the Magic put the batteries into their new toy against the Atlanta Hawks. It will take some time but they don't have much before three of their biggest home games of the season are here next week against the Dallas Mavericks, San Antonio Spurs and the Boston Celtics Christmas day.

For Magic fans however, Christmas has come early. Write that down.

Game Theory NFL Picks Week 15

2010-12-16T19:25:00.003-05:00

Money time is here again Theorists, it generally coincides with Christmas, which is essentially what you find here every week. Tonight is the Vegas Takedown Show on Blogtalkradio.com at www.blogtalkradio.com/gametheory at 9pm. Be there for this:

Cleveland +1 At Cincinnati- The Bengals are a used tire fire right now and Terrel Owens has finally morphed back into the unsuperhero he has always been his entire career criticizing everyone but himself, per the usual. Carson Palmer is the new Jake Delhomme and prefers to throw to the other team more often than his own. Defensively, they can't stop the run very well and in comes the last train to the end zone, Peyton Hillis. Also, returning to the lineup is Colt McCoy who hates losing in the NFL, especially against the spread. Rob Ryan has presented a pretty solid defense this year despite him having the only quarterback under center the past two games playing worse than his brother's Mark Sanchez. The Browns are a better team right now and will get the outright win this time around by sticking with the run.

Jacksonville +5 At Indianapolis- I had the Colts game handicapped perfectly last week at -2 only to talk myself into thinking they would cover the 3 at the last minute. Well, for 3 and a half quarters I was right. But then I forgot the only people stealing more money than the Colts defense are Rashard Lewis and Vince Carter and they don't play football, or defense for that matter. The Colts cannot stop the run and have the bowling ball Maurice Jones-Drew coming into town, also a solid back up in Rashad Jennings who himself is average 7 yards per carry. Peyton Manning did what he was supposed to do last week against a bad Titans team but I don't think he is completely out of the woods yet, his offense definitely isn't as they still can't run the ball and aren't going to all of a sudden focus on that with 3 games to go playing for a playoff spot. Jags control their fate here as a win gives them the division regardless of what happens the rest of the way having the season series edge over the Colts. Also, Colt's a lowly 3-6 ATS against the Jags at home. Jags by the way, 9-4 against the number on the year, they like to cover. They do so here.

Steelers -6 Vs Jets- What team has more distractions right now than the Jets? Their quarterback is regressing, their running game is non-existent, the defense's feelings are hurt because Rex is mean to them. This has implosion written all over it. Pittsburgh over the course of time is 42-21 ATS as a 3.5-7 point favorite at home. It's a nice, cushy number for them to play within. And they will. Big Dumb Ben will be week healthier than he was against the Bengals and will have a healthy as can be defense to pressure and force turnovers from soon to be benched Sanchize. By the way, raise your hand if you want to put your money on Mark Sanchez as an underdog on the road. Goodluck with that. You must hate money. Steelers big.

Oakland -6 Vs Denver- Kyle Orton is banged up and Tim Tebow has gotten the bulk of the snaps in practice thus far this week in possible preparation for his first start. The Raider's actually have some really good offensive weapons right now and the Broncos defense is more of a joke then the Iranian Army. Darren McFadden has looked like a pro bowler and Zack Miller is finally healthy again giving Jason Campbell the security blanket he had been missing over the past month and change. I don't know if Orton starts but he has been clearly bothered by the injury the past few weeks and the team as a whole is in HALO mode after the undue firing of Josh McDaniels. Look for the Raider's to enjoy a healthy coverage and the Broncos to enjoy another beating on the scoreboard.

Atlanta -7 At Seattle- Qwest Field never an easy place to play but let's face it, the Seahawks just don't have the horses yet to play with the league's elite teams. The Falcons are holding their ticket to the #1 seed in the NFC in their hands and have too many teams breathing down their neck to slip up. Matt Ryan didn't play great last week and the defense looked a little careless against the run, but Michael Turner is running with confidence and Roddy White should be uncoverable Sunday. The Seahawks have yet to see any return on their draft picks and I don't think we have heard Golden Tate's name since the last time he got the munchies at the local donut shop. Another Notre Dame nobody. Falcons by enough.

Dallas -6 Vs Washington- The Cowboy's got things turned around too late. Which makes me happy because I have nothing but ill feelings toward them. However, this week, I am after money and Vegas is all too willing to provide us with it Theorists. The Redskins and the Shannahan family hate Donovan McNabb right now and despite that contract he just received, I am saying now that he will not be a Redskin at this point next season. Again Rex Grossman has split snaps with the first team offense in practice this week. Grossman is awful historically against the 3-4 so even if he gets in there, he won't fare much better than McNabb. Ryan Torrain will be key for the Cowboys to stop as he is coming off a career day on the ground. Cowboys must get off the field on 3rd downs and stop the run which they should be able to do at home. Look for the Kitna led Cowboys to stomp the feathers off of the Redskins.

GO GET PAID!!(We Will)

Late, Quick Recap

2010-12-16T19:22:00.002-05:00

2-3 last week Theorists, unacceptably bringing us to a 59-58-4 on the year. I'd like to thank Aaron Rodgers for the concussion which was the obvious deciding factor in one game and the Colts defense for being the biggest waste of salary in the NFL in the other game. Cleveland had Jake Delhomme starting. We should have known better. Stand by.

Game Theory Picks Week 13

2010-12-09T19:10:00.003-05:00

We have reached the point of the season where we are sans college games that garner our interest or attention for picking. Therefore, this will be a strictly NFL plate of money for you to devour. Prepare to copy:

Colts -3 At Titans- Bounce back time for Peyton Manning. The Titans are wheeling out Kerry Collins and a mentally decimated team. Sure Chris Johnson will be getting a heavy dose of hand offs, but that is not a game plan capable of keeping up with the Colts quick strike attack. Despite Peyton Manning's short comings of late, he has still been able to produce points while producing almost as many for the wrong jersey wearing team. The Colts are in an unfamiliar position staring up from a place in the division rather than looking down. I think that is more than enough motivation for the Colts to get a big division win as they try and get their playoff train back on the tracks. Titans with no Vince Young are unable to cover, especially as of late as they are 0-5 ATS. Also, The Colts traditionally are good on short weeks as they are 7-0 ATS on those game nights. Titans get tommyknockered.

Atlanta -7 At Carolina- Jimmy Clausen is more of a question than an answer to any at this point. The Falcons are rolling towards home field advantage in the NFC playoffs. They know that and they know this is one of two games remaining against the Panther's that will provide them with said home ice. Matt Ryan has been connecting with Roddy White all season long and there is nothing that leads anyone in the football loving world to think that won't take place multiple times on Sunday. Traditionally, Carolina is a good December team but traditionally they aren't this injured and this unstable at every skill position on the field. Falcons eggshell the Panthers.

Green Bay -7 At Detroit- Check out time for Detroit. I know the division games are always close and that the Lions even played the Packers close earlier in the year. But that was when the Lions were still convinced that they had anything but "The Same Old Lions' stamped on their seasons forehead. The Lions are a Game Theory approved wedding day divorce. Write that down. Aaron Rodgers and the Pack may be looking ahead to their road trip to New England the following Sunday but they are in a must win situation as they try and either keep pace or pull into a tie with the Chicago Bears in the NFC North. They will not let up and will have no problem taking a EPA approved torch to the secondary of the lowly kittens. And oh yeah, who is going to cover Greg Jennings? Anyone? No? See ya later. Packers huge.

Pittsburgh -9 Vs Cincinnati- Must be a check out Thursday as this is another example of a team looking for the exit. The Steelers just had arguably their toughest game of the season and will be looking forward to the lay up drill the Bengals will provide them. It is impossible to run on the Steelers so that will nullify Cedric Benson forcing Carson Palmer to try and win this game in the air with the two divas with feminine personalities. Divas hate adversity, getting hit, having pressure, not getting their way, all things that the Steelers defense will adequately provide. Rashard Mendenhall should alleviate the load for Roethlisberger as he recovers from his introduction to rhinoplasty. Steelers defense should be all that is needed to win and will be the deciding factor in covering the number. Thanks Vegas.

Cleveland +1 At Buffalo- Bills may have checked out as well. Either way, lately, these two teams are seemingly heading in opposite directions. The Browns may get Colt McCoy back and have been seeing their efforts pay off in the win column. Conversely, the Bills know that God hates them or at the least, Stevie Johnson is still convinced of that inconceivable fact. The Bills couldn't stop my daughter carrying the mail, so any thought of them stopping Peyton "Reebok Pump Arms" Hillis should not be considered. It won't happen. That strategy should be enough to grab the win but also look for Browns D Coordinator Rob Ryan to keep Ryan Fitzpatrick off balance. Browns get the check mark.

Catch the on-air presentation of the aforementioned brilliance at www.blogtalkradio.com/gametheory Thursday at 9pm. Do it.

GO GET PAID!! (We Will)

Game Theory Recap Week 13

2010-12-08T19:33:00.002-05:00

As you most likely heard last night on the Game Theory Recap Show on blogtalkradio.com at www.blogtalkradio.com/gametheory, I tuned out another profitable weekend at 5-3 bringing my yearly total to 57-55-4. Bad misread on that South Carolina game but an equally great read on that Patriots line. All in all, we have looked very profitable over the past 8 weeks and finally, for the season overall in terms of a straight unit play across the board. Which I don't do but for the sake of streamlined picks and the public's desire to see a Win/Loss record in standard a+b=c format, that's what it is. Write that down Vegas. You won't.

Game Theory NCAA And NFL Picks Week 13

2010-12-01T19:19:00.002-05:00

Last big weekend in the college side of things before our attention focuses to the big bowl games but mainly the NFL. We're rolling right now as I stated on the show last night with 5 of the past 6 weeks being winners. Here we go Theorists, prepare to copy:

Northern Illinois -18 Vs Miami of Ohio- MAC title game on a neutral site at Ford Field in Detroit. Much more likely to see Huskies fans rolling into Detroit than the other U's. Then again, when's the last time the "real" U was in a conference title game? All the trends point us in the direction of money and the Huskies. Northern Illinois has covered every game this season except 1 and that was a push. They covered every game in conference, they are 8-1 on turf where this will be played. Oh and Miami? 2-8 ATS on turf, they hate the inanimate stuff. Plus, the Huskies like the pressure as they are also perfect ATS as a favorite. Another win here and the Huskies are looking at a nice post season payday. Miami I think is just happy to be here and will be heading home after 3+ touchdown loss. NIU rolls.

UCF -9 Vs SMU- Conference USA title game being hosted at Brighthouse Stadium in Orlando. Big edge for the Knights as they are a difficult team to beat in that environment. SMU is coming off of a tough game with Eastern Carolina and their QB Kyle Madron is a tad hobbled. Now he has to face Bruce Miller and the rest of the angry UCF line that loves to pressure and get after the quarterback. UCF is undefeated as a favorite of 3.5-10 points, it's a good number for them. I think this game will be close early but the crowd, coupled with the UCF desire for a victory to get their Liberty Bowl match up they have been craving will be enough to put the Mustangs away comfortably. Too much on the line here and maybe on a neutral field, I'd see a closer score, but the freshie fueled UCF crowd will propel their Knights to a 3rd conference title. UCF rolls.

Nevada -10 At Louisiana Tech- Tech is in for a rough day. They have the 117th ranked pass defense and are essentially a box of ineptitude all around on defense. They will have a tough time trying to slow down Colin Kaepernick in the air and on the ground. The Nevada offense is designed to confuse the defense pre-snap, and well, when you are as bad as Tech is, you're confused before you even take the field. Wolf Pack wins nicely.

South Carolina +6 Vs Auburn - SEC title game time. Looks to me like a nice time for the Auburn Tigers to deflate. I won't bet against Cam Newton pulling out a win, but I do like Stephen Garcia's play lately, turnover free for 4 weeks. Also, Steve Spurrier with no pressure and a chance for redemption after blowing the game earlier this season. Spurrier is getting a redo and so is Garcia. This is his chance to solidify his draft status while Newton works on his Heisman acceptance speech and looks ahead to the Naty title. I like a field goal game here and Southy Car to cover nicely.

=============BREAK NFL OPORD TO FOLLOW=======================

Chicago -3 At Detroit- The line is already vamoosed into oblivion but whenever it goes back up, jump on it. Could be a letdown game as the Bears get New England next week but the attitude this Bears team has taken on is molded in the image of their head coach Love Smith who never looks ahead. As frustrating as he can be to Bears fans at time, his players love him and will play hard for him. The Bears know they escaped in week 1 with a gift, this time they will be determined to earn a victory outright and keep the pressure on the Packers as the final 4 games will be brutal for the Bears. Drew Stanton from? Michigan State. He will get the start for the Lions and despite his desire to stick it to his former coaching staff, it will be a futile effort as the Bears' D will have a great fanty day for me, and an even better day on the field for the collective team. The Bears shut down the run which will leave Stanton to make plays. I am guessing the Bears learned their lesson about Calvin Johnson. Who else will Stanton throw to? Bears roll.

Buffalo +6 At Minnesota- I don't think the Bills can lose to anyone by a touchdown right now. The Vikings got a win for the auditioning Leslie Frazier last week but may have lost Adrian Peterson in the process. Describing his ankle injury as "unbearable", as a guy known to be a beast for obvious reasons, if he is saying that, it's a problem. Favre is still a turnover waiting to happen and Ryan Fitzpatrick will look to stay hot and make plays for the God hating Stevie Johnson who looks for a chance at repenting and atoning for his sins last week against the Steelers. Bills cover.

Falcons -3 At Tampa Bay- Bucs are in a tough spot. They still haven't beaten a winning team and are a lousy 2-9 ATS at home of late. They have the pieces and Freeman is looking more and more to be a guy that will stick around a while. But the Falcons know these remaining conference games will decide their playoff fate. They can't afford a late season trip up to a team they are better than all around. Stop the rushing attack of Snelling and Turner will be tough for a young Bucs line Aqib Talib will have his hands full with Roddy White. Matt Ryan is in full command of the offense and has no qualms with a late game rally or an all out shoot out. In other words, however you want to win, Ryan can deliver. I can't say that about Freeman yet. Falcons cover.

New England -3 Vs Jets- Payback time for the Hoodie and Tom Brady who has been on fire since the loss to the Jets and surprisingly to this handicapper, since the loss of the Slouch. The Patriots are back to their Super Bowl winning formula of spreading the ball to the open guy rather than trying to force the action to a desperate housewife receiver. The Jets have shown a propensity to win close games or even battle back into games where they could have lost. That speaks to the development of Mark Sanchez. But on the road on a Monday night, who do you want to put your money on? Defensively this is a mismatch but Tom Brady has a bad game on film to learn from and while Revis is healthier this time, his man coverage skills can be neutralized with the movement of Wes Welker I think. I have a feeling these two teams will see each other once more after this in the playoffs but until then, Belichick gets the rematch.

GO GET PAID!!(We Will)

Game Theory Recap Week 12

2010-11-29T19:09:00.002-05:00

6-3 ATS Theorists bringing the season tally finally to the .500 mark at 52-52-4. If you have been paying attention, and I check the stats for the site and the radio show so I know you are, and I thank you, then you know I have been dialed in for nearly the past two months. Collectively as well, The Blanket and I have been pounding Vegas to a tune of 15-7 last week, 13-6 the week before that, etc...etc..

Stick with us Theorists, it's like Christmas every weekend here at Game Theory!

Game Theory NFL And NCAA Picks Week 12

2010-11-24T19:22:00.003-05:00

We're up against it Theorists with the Thanksgiving holiday upon us. Early Takedown show tonight at 9pm only at www.blogtalkradio.com/gametheory. If you can't catch it live you can always access the podcast from the same site and download or stream. Money time. Prepare to copy:

Northern Illinois -24 At Eastern Michigan- Northern Illinois is a pretty dangerous team right now, for a MAC squad at least. I think they could probably win the Big Least this year if they were apart of it. The Huskies come in with a pretty powerful offense and Eastern Michy doesn't do anything on the defensive side of the ball except fill uniforms. Chad Spann is a touchdown machine and Chandler Harnish is extremely efficient and doesn't turn the ball over. Also, NIU is 6-0ATS in conference, something Richy Rod should try sometime and Eastern Michigan is a terrible 0-6 ATS at home after a road game. They hate their home and their fans hate them. I like the Huskies to be covering by half-time

Alabama -4 Vs Auburn- I waited for the "I hate money" crowd to drop the line from 5 to 4 for me and they obliged. Auburn is a good team and they have had a great season up to this point. But it's time for the wheels to come off here. Auburn is still and always will be the little brother in this rivalry and especially in the state of Alabama. This game was close last year but in the end, defensive talent wins out. Auburn doesn't have any. Don't be fooled by the fact that they have a better run defense than the Tide, that is because they end up in shoot outs and opponents have to abandon the run. Trent Richardson and Mark Ingram are going to have a huge game and I think Saban employs the same strategy as he did last in last year's conference title game against the Gators to shut down Newton. Bama rolls.

Ohio State -17 Vs Michigan - This is simple, almost as simple as my logic used for justifying the Baltimore beat down of Carolina last week. It's still November. It's still Michigan in conference. They are still on the road in conference. And they are still playing Ohio State with no defense. Name the score. Ohio State big.

UCF -26 At Memphis - The line should be 36. UCF is unbeatable ATS on the road, 10-0 and Memphis is sadly 6-15 ATS as a home dog. They like to get beat. And they have done a great job of that all season long with just one win. UCF is motivated. They must win this game in order to host their 3rd Conference USA title game in 6 seasons. No chance for a letdown here as I see Memphis going through the motions and the Knights of Central Florida pillaging their way at least a 5 touchdown victory.

Hawaii -27 At New Mexico State- Bryant Moniz will be over 4000 yard by the end of the first drive and should be over 30 touchdowns by the end of the second. The Hawaii passing attack is unstoppable, except when playing Boise State of course, but their not. They're playing New Mexico State who along with the other school in that state, should seriously consider slashing the program from the schools budget. They're that bad. Hawaii has been a good play all season going 9-2 ATS so far and that is logic enough for me to stick with them knowing that they only need to win by 4 touchdowns for some healthy ROI. Hawaii big.

=========BREAK NFL OPORD TO FOLLOW============

New England -7 At Detroit- Not much in the way of trends supporting this pick. It's a short week for both teams and I have to give the obvious coaching nod for dealing with that situation to the Hoodman. No Matt Stafford or Jahvid Best leaves you with few things to be thankful for Lions fans...other than the fact that attendance is optional. Or maybe it isn't since you live in Detroit. Either way, Tom Brady and the Patriots should come out here with at least a double digit win.

Jets -9 Vs Bengals- The Bengals can't run the ball nor can they stop it. Conversely, those happen to be the two strengths of the Jets offense and defense. TO is doing whatever he can to make it seems like his team is relevant by calling out the injured Darrel Revis but in reality, this game is between two teams headed in completely opposite directions. Carson Palmer got yanked for his brother, who is arguably only in the league because of his last name. Mark Sanchez has made me look stupid most of the year and Rex Ryan seems to get his team prepared for the bigger games on his schedule. Thanksgiving night in prime time fits the bill and their will be a lot of liquored up Jets fans, maybe even a few confused Giants fans in the new Meadowlands for this beating. Jets by two touchdowns.

Chicago +4 Vs Philadelphia- Don't give me points at home Vegas. The Eagles and Bears have played close games the past three seasons and most have come down to the final drive. That could happen again here. What should be noted, while they were arguably different players, the Bears and Lovie Smith know how to defend Michael Vick as they were 3-0 all time including a memorable frozen December game where none other than Rex Grossman came charging out in the second half to cheers from the home crowd to throw a red zone pick on his first drive after replacing a rookie Kyle Orton. Still, a win was a win. The Bears defense got a chance to get a few more days rest and have been forcing a lot of turnovers lately. Vick so far has not thrown a pick but this is the NFL, it will happen eventually. I think he will finally have some bad luck and history has proved that he struggles with a strong pass rush to his strong side. Julius Peppers will be in his face on Sunday. How he handles that will decide the game. I look for a 3 point contest either way.

Green Bay +2 At Atlanta- Inconsistent play by the Falcons concerns me lately. The Packers are healthier and Aaron Rodgers has been on fire lately. This is going to prove troublesome for the Falcons and I think getting points is a solid opportunity for getting money. Look for Rodgers to win a shootout with Matt Ryan. Packers grab the win.

GO GET PAID!! (We Will)

Game Theory Recap Week 11

2010-11-22T19:39:00.003-05:00

6-1 Theorists further bringing my record back to some level of respectability on the season at 46-49-4. There's been an obvious uptick in my forecast over the past 5 weeks which has been where we should have been all along. Stick with it Theorists, it's a grind but that's the difference between Joe Public and Vegas hating you. Write that down.

Game Theory NCAA And NFL Picks Week 11

2010-11-17T19:21:00.003-05:00

We're pressed for time this week so before the show goes live and before I hit the airport, I will pass along my picks. Prepare to copy:

Wisconsin -4 At Michigan-Just take a look at what Wisconsin did to Indiana last week. Indiana has arguably just as bad but maybe a slightly better Big Ten defense this year than Michigan. Now, I know we can't just take one team and say because they did this to team A, they will replicate against team B. In this case though, you can just about say that. Michigan is now 3-19 ATS in conference during the Richie Rod era and that will be 3-20 by the 3 O'clock hour. Offensively Michigan can produce a few points but they struggled with turnovers against Purdon't and Wisconsin is much more opportunistic and has a Big Ten title they are still playing for. Look for Wisconsin to pull away in the second half.

Army +8 Vs Notre Dame- Hyundai sight game here as they head to Yankee Stadium for this contest. Notre Dame is coming off of a surprising win against Utah but I for one am still not convinced that means much as they are still without Crist and have a terrible defense, especially struggling lately with offenses like the Army Black Knights. Notre Dame has yet to cover a spread in which they have been favored between 3.5-10 points in the past 3 seasons. Army has a very good squad right now and just qualified for a bowl and is riding high. I want to call for the outright win here and they just may pick up the phone for me, but at the least and most profitable, I will say this is a touchdown game one way or the other.

Hawaii -30 Vs San Jose State- San Jose State cannot get out of their own way. They are absolutely awful in every statistical category one can comprise during football competition. They barely get two touchdowns a game on offense and can't stop anyone on defense. On the road across the pond against this Hawaii attack is going to be bad for someones bottom line, but it won't be mine. Hawaii by 40.

UCF -17 At Tulane- I like UCF to get back on track here finally. Defensively they have been worn down the past 3 weeks facing no huddle offenses. Now they get a traditional attack against Tulane which is what this unit was predicated upon stopping. George O'Leary is bad in coaching match ups that find his team close or behind but knows how to pile on well when up big. He should get that chance as Tulane struggled with Rice and is an all around dumpster fire at best that just had it's 4th alarm sounded. Also, my favorite stat just keeps getting better and that is that UCF is undefeated as a road favorite in conference. Write that down. Get money.

================NFL OPORD TO FOLLOW=============

Chicago +2 At Miami- Chicago has every trend in the book going against them in this match up but those are all based on good health and not a third string quarterback taking the snaps. So that throws everything out the window. The Bears have a top 4 run defense and the Dolphins are going to be very run heavy in this match up because of no other option. The Dolphins don't want to let Thigpen take to the air as the Bears have already vacuumed 14 picks. So that leaves them on the ground, in the wildcat most likely which has lost its luster and surprise value this season. I think offensively, Miami will be challenged and the Bears rarely allow points to be scored. Offensively, the Bears look to be slowly finding their way with this current offensive line combination that has kept Cutler on his feet the past 2 games. The Bears also remembered how to convert 3rd downs again going for 58% last week against the Vikqueens. Last thank you game for the Bears before the schedule gets rude so this is a must win for the W column or there will be no post season in the windy city.

Baltimore -10 At Carolina- Brian St.Pierre gets the start for the Panthers. Nothing else needs to be said. Baltimore by a surrender.

Green Bay -3 At Minnesota- The Packers are well rested coming off the bye and the Vikings are for intent and purposes, dead. The Packers bring in a stellar defense that will be getting after Favre and forcing the turnovers he has become adept at committing this season. There are no weapons for him on offense that he can throw to with Berrian, Rice and Moss all gone. Harvin and Peterson can't do it themselves but they will have no choice but to try. Aaron Rodgers is getting back the wins from last season and will be on top of his game against a patch work secondary for the Vikings. This one won't be pretty and we may get our first extended Tavaris Jackson sighting of the season.

GO GET PAID!! (We Will)

Game Theory Recap Week 10

2010-11-17T19:12:00.002-05:00

We stumbled to a 3-5 record over the weekend bringing our season mark to 40-48-4, which based on the amount of spin you'd like to apply could or couldn't be profitable depending on how you are spreading your units around. For the sake of this poorly constructed argument, we are in the red. Unacceptable. Picks are on their way. Standby.

Game Theory NCAA and NFL Picks Week 10

2010-11-10T19:18:00.002-05:00

I know we've been counting cash for quite some time now Theorists but it's time to get back to work and/or profit sharing. I'm lining up my action as I come across it so with that said, prepare to copy:

Purdue +13 Vs Michigan- There is absolutely nothing in favor of Michigan being able to justifiably cover a spread like that, on the road no less, regardless of how much I would like them to. The truth of the matter is that this is clearly the worst defense in all of college football and I don't care if the rankings say otherwise..barely. Michigan's injury report on defense reads like the starting line up and all of them were at some point or another. There is not a single trend that supports this line in favor of the Wolverines and for good reason. Here's a few for fun: 1-7 ATS in November, 1-5 Against teams with a losing record, 4-14 as a favorite, 2-15 after a conference game, 0-4 as a road favorite, and the biggest and most damning of them all, 3-18 against conference opponents. Thank you Richie Rod for your blasphemous defense and more importantly, thank you Vegas for your money. Purdue covers easily.

Kent State Pick Em Vs Army- This one comes down to football basics again. Offense versus defense. Army is going to have to fight from here on out if they are to get that additional win needed for a bowl game qualification. Sadly, I don't think it happens here. For what it's worth, Kent State has the nation's top ranked run defense and this is still the basis of entire Army offensive philosophy. Defensively Army has done enough all year to stay in games but on the road here after a tough inter-service loss to Air Force with the best Black Knight squad in years, doesn't bode well for morale in my eyes. Kent State has played pretty well before going down to Temple the last time they took the field and they themselves need all the wins they can get from here on out to reach a bowl. Kent State wins.

Utah -6 At Notre Dame- Fledgling Irish are now themselves in HALO mode. With Dayne Crist lost forever, I don't see how the Irish will generate offense against a solid Utah defense, despite the beating they took from TCU last week. Utah is very angry and gets the perfect revenge game they need to boost their own confidence as they try to factor potentially back into a BCS game. Notre Dame can't wait for the season to be over and I frankly can't wait for the program to be over. Until then though, I will continue to take spreads of less than a touchdown for favorites facing Notre Dame and their laughable defense and now even more laughable offense. Utah big.

Oregon -20 At California- I don't feel like wrestling with this one too much. I think the Ducks are easily 3 touchdown's better than any team in the PAC-10 regardless of site. Cal has some things in their favor but have largely accrued those in seasons past when they were, well, good. I don't think they are. Chip Kelly knows he must keep the pedal depressed for 4 quarters in order to maintain a lock on that BCS title bid. He cannot let up and allow for a conference opponent to give him a game. I think he learned last week against Washington how dangerous it can be for his team to come out aloof and disinterested. I think his team did as well and I trust he has spent the majority of the week pummeling that fact into Darron Thomas and LaMichael James' heads. If these two come out on fire early, kiss Cal goodbye by half time.

Stanford -5 At Arizona State- Not a lot of numbers to throw at you on this one but I will give you the better quarterback theory. Andrew Luck or Steven Threet. Who do you want your money on? I know Threet had a good game early in the year at home versus Oregon but in a game where Oregon was off and begging to lose, Threet couldn't respond and decided to play catch with the wrong color jersey clad team. Stepfan Taylor and Andrew Luck pretty much do whatever they want with the ball in their paws and that trend should continue.

==========================NFL OPORD TO FOLLOW======================

Giants -14 Vs Cowboys- Like I proclaimed on the recap show, I will take whoever Dallas' opposition is until proven otherwise. Like their overall record, their ATS record is a mirror image at 1-7. So now after a pummeling in Green Bay, they are supposed to go on the road again to New York sans head coach with the new guy who they don't really like and is running training camp style practices already and cover 14? Maybe with Romo they have a shot at that number but not with Kitna and a bunch of players with no heart on either side of the ball. The Giants also play well in conference as they are 4-1 ATS recently, and that's when playing healthy teams with heart. Remember, the Cowboys are sans all of the aforementioned items. Giants big.

Tampa -6 Vs Carolina- Jimmy Clausen gets the keys back after Matt Moore got an early Christmas gift in an IR slot. Good luck with that. While the Bucs defense hasn't been kind to them recently, they shouldn't have to worry too much about Carolina finding the end zone or completing a forward pass to the correct team. Raheem Morris is good in bounce back games early in his career and Josh Freeman has proven himself to be a quality quarterback, especially in comparison to Clausen who wishes he were still playing the Northeastern Aeronautical Community Colleges of the world. The Panthers can't stop the run and will have their hands full with LaGarette "One Punch" Blount who should see an increase on his 14 carry total against the Falcons.

St Louis +6 At San Fransisco- I know the trends say that St. Louis is 3-11 ATS in the division and even worse, 6-18 as a road dog of 3-7 points, but that was when they were sans Bradford and the 2010 season. The Niners have been the biggest disappointment this year and I don't care which Smith they start back there at quarterback, they aren't 6 points better than a unified team coming off of a bye with an as healthy as he is going to be Steven Jackson. There is a good vibe surrounding this team on defense with Laurinaitis who plays with a ton of heart and effort unlike any player on the Dallas Cowboys. Danny Amendola has emerged as Bradford's most consistent target and there is nobody you can say that about on the Niners. Perhaps they get a victory as the Rams are winless on the road, but anything less than a close game, I wouldn't expect.

GO GET PAID!!(We Will)

Game Theory Recap Week 9

2010-11-09T20:50:00.003-05:00

Profitability at it's finest fellow Theorists as I gave you a 6-1-1 weekend, including an undefeated college football slate bring our season tally to an almost respectable 37-43-4. Check out the recap show tonight at 9pm EDT at http://bit.ly/9qeqC1. Do it.

Game Theory NCAA And NFL Picks Week 9

2010-11-03T19:27:00.004-04:00

Listen Theorists, we here at the Game Theory Radio offices believe we have turned the page. The past two weeks we have provided you with an profit sharing record of 24-11 betwixt the Blanket and I. That's the sound of money. And this is the page of it. Prepare to copy:

UCF -1 At Houston- Line on the move here Theorists, Joe "I hate money" Public is laying the dog in Houston. Houston of their 5th quarterback of the season by the way. Houston of the dumpster fire. In comes a bag of gasoline in the UCF Knights who have been slam dancing their way en route to a third conference title. All that stands between them really is, Houston. Houston of their 5th starting quarterback. I don't care how many guys you carry on a roster but when you arrive at #5 on the depth chart, that ain't good. UCF is a defensive beast that loves to get off the ball and after the quarterback. Ronnie Weaver hates being tackled and was at nearly 6 yards per against East Carolina last week. You want some trendy info? How about UCF 8-0 ATS on the road? How about right around this time of year, Houston falls apart when healthy at 21-39 ATS, so what should we expect them to do in sick call mode? Lose the game that's what.

Boise State -21 Vs Hawaii- I'm not going to wrestle myself too much on this one. Hawaii has a tremendous passing attack but nothing else. Boise is equipped to handle them on defense as they are pretty good at shutting down the pass, and in their home environment, that is going to be the key. Hawaii needs to score early and match Boise if they are to keep this within the 21. I just don't see them doing it, similar to USC and Oregon last week where eventually, the more talented team will win out and pull away. That team is Boise St. Plus, this is a game that the gossip crowd will be watching. Hawaii is making a case for themselves as a legitimate team and this could help Boise if they cover this spread in the eyes err...monitors of the computers. Look for Chris Peterson to pull out some trickery to give the Broncos a boost.

Boston College -3 At Wake Forest- Wake Forest is in HALO mode right now. That means High Altitude Low Opening, and in their case it may be no opening. Losers of 5 straight, they are just waiting for this season to be over. Surprisingly, BC has started to play pretty well since losing to NC State putting up close games to Florida State and Maryland, in addition to upsetting Clemson last week. In their monetary favor is a comfortable 6-1 ATS record as a road favorite of 3 points or less. I like that line. That's a really good line. Thanks Rome. Anyway, what it tells me is that BC rarely is given more credit than they deserve but doesn't disappoint when given a little. I like them in this spot and while they don't do anything great on offense, they play hard on defense and that should be enough to nullify the putrid Demon Deacon attack.

TCU -5 At Utah- This pick I am going with defense on. Both recently played Air Force and TCU dominated them while Utah fell apart late. What should be the difference maker is the Horned Frog defense that has given up just 13 points over their past 5 games. That really isn't fair. Last year at home, this was a drubbing. Both teams are once again playing for BCS respect and this the best team TCU has had arguably. They know it's now or never for them, much like Boise and well, Utah. If TCU wins this game going away, the BCS servers will probably crash spitting out their new rankings. TCU handles being a road favorite well also and I think will do enough to take this game by a touchdown.

====================BREAK NFL OPORD TO FOLLOW==================

Chicago -3 At(technically)Buffalo- Road game for both as we outsource our sport to a bunch of canucks. The Bears fans travel well and I largely expect them to have the most fans in the house despite closer proximity for Buffalo. The Bears season rides on this game alone. Buffalo is good enough that they should have won by now but hey, they haven't. I don't like their spirit either coming off of that overtime loss to the Chiefs either as that is the type of game that can stick with a team for weeks that doesn't have strong leadership. Chan Gailey doesn't exactly motivate or inspire me. The Bears are either going to make a run now or punch 6-10 on the season and let Lovie and crew pack up their offices now. This game is their season before they face the Vikqueens the following week. Martz needs to realize what he has. Two quality running backs facing an awful run defense in the Bills. Will he is the key. This is not the game to show off all of your fancy 12 WR sets, this is the game to keep Cutler out of the way and let Matt Forte and Chester Taylor beg for oxygen. Also, the Bears are 8-1 ATS after two straight losses. Bears barely.

Patriots -5 At Cleveland- Colt McCoy has done well in his first few starts but now he must take the field against Tom Brady and the increased Chi Patriots who are a much better team surprisingly sans Slouch. They are back to their usual tricks of leading the league in scoring at almost 30 per and the defense has been starting to come around, again proving that the Hoodie can coach up whoever dons the uni. Colt McCoy will have his first look at the Patriots and the start of his career can't get anymore difficult. He is down a few weapons still on offense and I just don't think has enough experience to get into a shoot out with Brady, something he will have to do as his defense won't be of much consequence. The Hoodie and the Hair roll.

Packers -9 Vs Dallas- Let's play word association. When I say dumpster fire, what team comes to mind? That's right, the Dallas quitters. This team is an embarrassment and has completely shut the doors on their season based on the way the defense played last week against the Jags. John Kitna is getting no help and there isn't any about to come walking through the doors. Aaron Rodgers and the Packers just shut out the league's most obnoxious team and now get to take on another. They are loving this spot in prime time because what was supposed to be a marquee game, is now a lay up drill on their way to first place and the bye. Rodgers should have fun with this secondary and the Packers should be covering by the half.

Giants -7 at Seattle- This just in, Charlie Whitehurst will get the start for the injured Matt Hasselbeck. I almost feel bad for the kid as he must make his first start for the seabirds against a very good Giants defense that is well rested and playing great up front. Eli Manning has been making big plays to Nicks and Manningham and I see no reason for that not to continue. Also, and most important, Coach Coughlin has gotten the production back at running back. This will be a long day for a largely one dimensional Seattle offense now missing it's engine at quarterback.

GO GET PAID(We Will)

Game Theory Recap Week 8

2010-11-02T21:52:00.002-04:00

5-4 in published action for you last week Theorists bringing us to 31-42-3. We are tightening in on Vegas finally as I have said, and if you listen to the show, you will also get the Blanket's picks who has has helped pad our collective bank account. Stay alert, stay alive....or in this case stay in the black. www.blogtalkradio.com/gametheory tune in!

Game Theory NCAA Picks and NFL Week 8

2010-10-29T19:35:00.002-04:00

Time for money fellow Theorists! Already we have had a great week leading up to this weekend. That of course, is slotted to continue. Write that down Vegas. Prepare to copy:

Clemson -7 At Boston College- BC has been in dumpster fire/rebuild mode and have been pretty much since losing Coach Jeff Jagodzinski and Matt Ryan. They're a terrible offensive football team and have been pretty bad against the spread this year, which is the whole point of this Game Theory pick thing. 0-4 ATS after a home conference game and an anemic 1-5 in their past 6. Conversely and dwelling on the side of money is Clemson. Andre Ellington has been a touchdown machine and I look for him to have a high speed effort on the ground driving their 6-0 ATS as a 3.5-10 point favorite to 7-0. Clemson donky kongs BC.

Navy -13 Vs Duke- This game doesn't require much in the way of trends to help us decide on who we should pick. This comes to down to the basics of football. Running the football, and stopping said run. The midshipmen are one of the best in the country at doing so and their offense is centered around it. Duke is absolutely terrible at stopping the run as they are 107th and they were just pummeled by another run heavy team in Virginia Tech. Sometimes its best to not try and out think the room Theorists. Navy will win by the requisite two touchdowns.

Oregon -7 At USC- It's amazing to be how bad USC continues to be against the forward pass with the athletes that they recruit. I know they lost some transfers but they are terrible. Also, they are a train wreck 6-13 ATS in their last 19 including only 3 covers in their past 9 at home. Oregon as well know is the P90X version of a football team. They practice at a freakish pace and execute plays with the coolest signals coming in from the sidelines ever. I've been told they will use the Game Theory logo which has still yet to be completed for this game. Oregon #1 in every offensive category and they way they call their plays, USC will not be able to defend them or keep up. Also, this is a spot where I think a bye week will hurt the USC conditioning. They will need a lot of oxygen and even more bandages to apply to their ego. Oregon big.

Hawaii -15 Vs Idaho- Last year Idaho was a cover machine. And also last year, Hawaii was not. Now these teams have swapped roles but if you pay attention, you realize that either way it's money. Hawaii is a very difficult team to play on the road, regardless of whether you are coming from Idaho. It's a long flight across the lake and Hawaii hates to lose at home. Idaho is a meek 3-12 ATS after a home conference win. Hawaii's pill tosser Bryant Moniz will be over 3000 yards and maybe 28 touchdowns by the end of this contest. Also, they have a pretty solid running game this season as well with Alex Green. Idaho will have their hands full and they won't like with what.

==================BREAK NFL OPORD TO FOLLOW=================

Jets -6 Vs Packers- Jets love to play the NFC North as they are 14-5 ATS. They're coming off of a bye and are the healthiest they are going to be for the rest of the season unlike the Green Bay Packers who already have 12 players on IR. They are terrible against the run and don't have the linebackers on the edge to take up space in the gaps in between the tackles where the Jets like to run. This is going to cause a ton of problems for the Packers on defense. Offensively, Green Bay is going to have some issues because they aren't going to be able to run and Revis and Cromartie will be hanging out waiting for an errant pass. Also, the Packers are coming off of a huge game for them personally and now have to go on the road against a team they aren't suited to play against. I like the Jets by a touchdown.

Rams -3 Vs Carolina- I don't know if this is the sucker line of the weekend or if Vegas just doesn't care. The Rams have provided solid value all season long and just because Carolina broke into the W column against the only NFC team worse than them, doesn't make this an evenly matched game. Sam Bradford has been much better than I thought this early and Steven Jackson is still a man beast with the ball in his paws. By the way, Carolina hates to stop the run. St Louis also has a pretty decent young defense and they will build some confidence against the league's worst offense. Rams easily.

Houston +6 At Indianapolis- SOP applies. Divisional game against an opponent that knows the Colts inside and out. The Colts are very ordinary against their own division and Houston already has the one up after week one. I think Manning will get his revenge here but will need the entire 4 quarters to do it. He is down Dallas Clark, has no running game, and Collie is banged up as well. Arian Foster destroyed the Colts defense in week one and will have no issue this week as the Colts are depleted on that side of the ball as well. Houston is nothing to speak of on the defensive side either as they are now down Demeco Ryans for the year but I think Foster will be the X factor and allow them to keep Manning off the field. It may not be enough to win, but it will be enough for a 3-4 point game.

GO GET PAID!!(We Will)

Game Theory Recap Show Tonight

2010-10-26T17:51:00.003-04:00

Be there at 10pm EDT on Blog Talk Radio at www.blogtalkradio.com/gametheory.
If you like money that is.

Oh, and take Boston +2 and NC State +4 Thursday. Write that down.

Game Theory Recap

2010-10-25T19:41:00.003-04:00

Hey Vegas, need a loan? 5-1 fellow Theorists as it looks like a corner has been turned which led us right to the front of the line at the cash cage. Had Baltimore played like anything resembling the trends, we would have walked to a perfect weekend. Regardless, my numbers now stand at 26-38-3. I may open up the playbook again and bring an expanded slate but honestly right now I'm feeling pretty comfortable with a 5-8 game menu. I tend to make my money in the college game afterall, and the NFL is losing my interest with my Bears being who they are and of course with them having a bye week. Plus, i've got golf to play Sunday. And its halloween. I'll be dressing up as a bag of money, same as I do every year. Write that down.

Game Theory NCAA and NFL Picks Week 7

2010-10-21T12:57:00.002-04:00

Top O' the afternoon to you fellow Theorists! I'm fresh off of a personal victory in the game of life where I covered easily. Therefore, I'm giving myself a record of 1-0 prior to the continuation of these picks! Write that down Vegas. You won't. This is a shot group tightening slate of games as I have dialed down my action due to increased overhead, IE, lack of ROI. Prepare to copy:

Oregon -26 Vs UCLA - A lot of points to lay right? Wrong. Not for the Ducks who are now in the same boat as Boise St who must also realize that every week is a beauty contest in regards to the final score. The BCS doesn't want to hear how Kevin Prince probably won't be playing and that this is a conference game with a bad offense. All that matters is the final result and that score must always include an ATS cover. Which it will because UCLA is terrible ATS off of a bye week at 3-12 and now must do it sans starting QB. Whats that mean for you and me? Let's ask Oregon who is 26-11 ATS coming off of a conference win at home. Those are two obvious and glaring numbers in our favor. Oregon trolley cars UCLA.

Michigan State -5 At Northwestern- First off, Michigan State has a lot of Vegas paperwork staring at it in the face designed to scare you towards to Northwestern. Namely, they are 1-5 ATS against Northwestern, Northwestern is a stellar 6-0 ATS underdog of 3.5 to 10 points, and Northwestern is also 5-1 ATS after a conference loss. You nervous yet Sparty? Don't be. The defense of Michigan State will control Dan Persa and there aren't enough Northwestern defenders on the field to stop what Sparty does with the ball in his extinct hands. Sparty has everything to play for still and can find themselves Big Ten champs as they get the fortunate schedule of not having to play the Buckeyes. How's that work you might ask? Vegas, that's how. With all of that said, the ground game of Michigan State will eat clock and churn out yardage all day en route to the end zone leaving Persa short on time to try and keep it close.

Auburn -6 Vs LSU- LSU has been finding ways to win all season and is primed for their first Loss. That of which is no concern to me because they will lose. What we need is a touchdown or more loss and that is what I see happening. First off, who does Cam Newton play for? If you said the Gators, you would be wrong but wishful thinking Gator honk! Correct, he is a member of the other Tiger team involved in this game which means LSU is already down 14 points because they play with one of the worst passing games in all of college football and they are going to need one because Auburn lets you pass against them. LSU has a great defense but great defenses rarely stop great quarterbacks like Cam Newton. Also, LSU is 6-11 ATS versus teams with winning records and I think Auburn is about to bring it all together for a solid performance in front of the home crowd. Also, possible Blanket sighting. Stand by.

UCF -22 Vs Rice- Hey Rice won a game! Hyundai's for everyone. That didn't really count considering Houston no longer plays with a quarterback. True story, look it up. Rice is still as bad they have ever been and has no offense to speak of. UCF is a top 8 defense in every category that matters and gets a lousy Rice team for Homecoming. Now Rob Calabrese is out for the season so maybe George O'Leary will finally let a quarterback develop which Jeff Godfrey must do and will do against a porous Rice secondary which is almost an insult to the term secondary. Perhaps thirdary? We'll figure it out. Rice hates to cover 21-31 point spreads as they are 0-3 recently and 4-12 since 1992. Conversely, UCF loves to bully teams with losing records and are 10-3 in their last 3 seasons ATS in that regard. I look forward to another dominating defensive performance for UCF and Jeff Godfrey to have a big game on the ground and his first in the air. Plus, maybe a little bit of pouring it on for the liquored up homecoming crowd before they continue to trash the campus on the half hour walk back to the parking garages. Do it.

===============BREAK NFL OPORD TO FOLLOW================

Baltimore -14 Vs Buffalo- Baltimore is anger/give me money mode after the game with the Patriots. Who better to enact revenge upon? The Bills who will coincidentally be helping to pay mine after this weekend. Baltimore is 6-1 ATS as a 10+ point favorite over the past three seasons and they are coming back home with a point to prove to their fans. This Ravens team may be chasing a wildcard now with the return of Rothlisberger to the Steelers and Ray Lewis knows that this is no time to waste energy on the Patriots game. Joe Flacco will most likely be sans Todd Heap and Baltimore as a whole is beginning to get banged up, but Ray Rice gets to go up against the worst run defense in da worrrllllllddd!! That smells of a big day and even more like money. Thanks Vegas.

Green Bay -3 Vs Minnesota- The luster for Favre and the Vikings last year has long since run out. There will be no emotional BS to hype up, though I'm sure NBC will try anyway, despite more pressing sexual harassment issues for Favre being more of a talking point. Also, the Vikings are 4-13 ATS on the road after a 3 point victy. Not so good. Green Bay and Aaron Rodgers have been struggling and are now dealing with some injuries on offense. Brett Favre has been a turnover machine in prime time this year and may provide us another late game cover if Rodgers doesn't do enough himself. The key will be to shut down Adrian Peterson and let Favre force the issue down field and into the hands of Charles Woodson who should have a great time covering the slouch. I like the Packers to grab a W here and send Favre on his way back to the NFC North cellar.

Game Theory Recap

2010-10-18T19:58:00.003-04:00

4-7-1 bringing me now to a paltry 21-37-1. It is time to tighten up my shot group and recommit my weapon to the fight. At the very least, are you not entertained? Is that not why you are here? Join me tomorrow for the Game Theory Recap show on Game Theory Radio at www.blogtalkradio.com/gametheory at 10pm. Do it.

Game Theory NCAA and NFL Picks Week 6

2010-10-15T18:53:00.003-04:00

What the hell is up fellow Theorists? Hopefully your accounts if you've been sticking to the script and playing the picks laid out for you so far during the week. If not, what's the problem? Are you that indifferent towards money? I feel bad for you if so.
Fellow Theorists, prepare to copy:

I already gave you UCF -6 and West Virginia -10. That is called profit sharing my friends! Time for more.

Boise State -41 At San Jose State- Boise has no choice but to cover this spread and then some. They are already seeing the repercussions of their schedule as fellow undefeated teams are leapfrogging them undeservedly. With that said, they need to continue to win convincingly and hope the top teams keep knocking each other off as we saw with Alabama last week. San Jose State can't do anything right. They only score 10 points a game, and they have the 99th worst defense in points allowed. Well, what does Boise do well besides everything? Correct, they score a lot and they don't allow the other team to score. Couple it all with the fact that SJST is at the bottom end of every statistical category and you get a nice combo meal featuring a side of beatdown. Boise state 57-13.

Ohio State -4 At Wisconsin- I know Wisconsin never loses a home game at night. But the Badgers are a tad confusing this season and not in a good way. They've blown the doors off of the bad teams and played pretty poorly against legit BCS competition, losing to Michigan State and needing help to beat Arizona State. Ohio State hasn't been overly impressive in conference against Illinois but they appeared to get it together against a great Indiana offense. And that is where the problem will lie with the Badgers. The Ohio State defense is top 3 in the country and is impossible to move. They are elite against the run and that is the Wisconsin strength. In the end, I don't think they will be able to stop Pryor the entire game and I just don't see them doing enough on offense to keep it close enough at the end.

UTEP +3 At UAB- Wrong team favored here for sure. UTEP has a surprisingly great passing attack and UAB is unable to defend it. They are 1-4 and are struggling for answers considering how well they have played on offense at times, especially against Tennessee. Now they are coming off an embarrassing loss to UCF and have only scored 14 points in 2 conference games this year. UTEP is a dangerous team and UAB is pretty demoralized. They have no shot at the conference and largely are just playing out the year while UTEP is still in play in their division despite losing to Houston who is now sans Case Keenum. UTEP rolls.

Arkansas +4 At Auburn- This all comes down to the quarterbacks for me. Ryan Mallet needs to have a huge game and he knows it now that Alabama has lost. He is putting up over 350 yards per game in the air and what doesn't Auburn do well? Defend the forward pass, correct fellow Theorists! Now Auburn does run extremely well specifically because of Cam Newton, but this is not a team that knows how to put conference opponents away. They are very likely to play not to lose, rather than to win. Coach Gene Chizek is not a gambler whereas on the other side of the ball, Bobby Petrino likes to take his chances and knows he is going to have to if he wants to win this game. Arkansas can do it because I think Mallet is the better quarterback and now must prove it in another huge conference road game.

Nebraska -10 Vs Texas- Everything is aligned for Nebraska to throttle body the Texas Longhorns. A lot of hatred involved as well as no one involved with these teams or universities is a fan of the other. Hate makes for great football, especially for the favorite at home. Nebraska knows this is their payback for the BS that went down in Austin last year when the refs ripped the game out of their hands and Vegas did the same to our money with that Colt McCoy pass out of bounds. Taylor Martinez will need to have a huge game as he gets a pretty good Texas defense but can rest assured that his Bo Pelini led unit should give him a few takeaways to pad the score. This is the last time these two teams will meet with Nebraska moving onto the Big Ten, so when given the chance to step on the neck of the Longhorns, they will. Twice. Hello hatred and hello money, nice to see you again.

Miami -19 At Duke- Miami is coming off of a terrible loss to an in state rival which should never happen, not by that score. Now it is season on the line time. This is a must win conference game and they can't afford to play anything less than perfect. Fortunately, their pass defense should be able to take away the one strength Duke has going for it and allow of their athletes on the field to dominate a vastly weaker team in Duke. This is the kind of opponent you need after a loss like that in order to restore some confidence with a lopsided victory.

========================BREAK NFL OPORDER TO FOLLOW==========================

Atlanta +3 At Philadelphia- Philly is primed for the fall here. Atlanta playing good enough every week to win and Matt Ryan is primed for a big game. They are running the ball better than they have in the past so just in case Ryan decides to take a Sunday off, they can always resort to football in the pre-forward pass era. Philly right now is a dumpster fire-esque 1-5 ATS in their past 6 home contests and is dreadful against the run. So ponder me how you plan on stopping Snelling and Turner? Kevin Kolb got a win against San Francisco last week but who hasn't? He is still a largely unproved player at the position and in a game where Vegas is telling me the location is going to make the difference, I'll go with the better QB instead.

Oakland +7 At San Francisco- I can't remember the last time I laid American currency on the Raiders. But I just don't see how a team that hasn't won a game yet continues to get the respect from Vegas that it does. Their coach is proving more and more that he isn't quite ready for prime time. Their quarterback hasn't been since he was drafted. Frank Gore hasn't gotten the ground game going and their defense has been running on the back end of middle of the road because of it. The Raiders have a great running game which may be a bit banged up but is still efficient as Tom Cable has built a running team based on a solid defense. Asomogua will shutdown whoever is on his side of the field and will force Alex Smith to toss a few to the wrong colored jersey. Maybe the Niners finally get into the win column, but its close.

Steelers -14 Vs Cleveland- I know these spreads are begging me to take the dog. And if there was any stability at QB for Cleveland I would as this is Big Ben's first game back. But the Browns have to go with Colt Mccoy who looked like he wasn't quite ready for the NFL game in the preseason. Getting your first start on the road against this defense isn't just mean, its a blatant violation of his human rights. They can't rely on Hillis or Cribbs because no one runs on the Steelers so Mccoy will have to win this himself. You want to take that bet? Me either, in fact, I'd rather take the money from Vegas as the Steelers work Ben back in and play to their strengths. Steelers comfortably.

Colts -3 At Washington- Ok for the same reasons I said Aaron Rodgers should have the big game last weekend apply here. Only I think Manning will get his S together and actually do said task. The Redskins keep finding ways to win but with both team struggling to run the ball, this could turn into another shootout like the Redskins had with Houston. I will still take my chances with Manning and reliable, familiar targets than I will with McNabb and no clear playmaker to catch the ball. The Colts should cover this fairly easy.

Listen To The Game Theory Recap Show

2010-10-13T20:04:00.004-04:00

Per the title, if you didn't catch it last night, you can log on to www.blogtalkradio.com/gametheory and click on the Game Theory Recap Week 5 and here myself and The Blanket banter about what went right or mostly wrong over the NCAA and NFL weekend. Also, get ready for friday night as the Vegas Takedown Show returns for a week 6 assault on the 702 residents. Do it.

And if you just can't wait until then, much like myself. Take UCF -6 and West Virginia -10. Shouldn't be a problem. Too much defense for the Thundering Herd to contend with. Plus UCF hates Marshall. Great logic for investment, I know, but sometimes there is no reason to try and out think the room. USF cannot score right now and never beats West Virginia. Raise your hand if you think they are going into Morgantown and making a game out of this? Nobody? Good answer.

Game Theory Recap

2010-10-12T20:46:00.004-04:00

4-8 bringing me to 17-30-3 on the year. Fortunately, I hit on the All In moment and also pushed again unpublished on the Jets money line last night in order to pump in some much needed capital. Vegas is definitely here to fight this season. But, not to worry, so are we. Hey Vegas, matter of time my sideline phone ringing foe. How copy?

Game Theory All-In Moment

2010-10-10T13:39:00.001-04:00

Make or break time already eh Vegas? Hey Vegas, watch this.

Bears +3 -all chips in. No rookie QB is beating this defense. Period.

That's all I have to say about that.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Game Theory Teaser

2010-10-08T19:29:00.003-04:00

Alright fellow Theorists, as promised, an official teaser that I will be playing myself, prepare to copy:

USF -1, Alabama -1/2, Arkansas Pick Em, and Stanford -3

Thank me on the recap show!

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Game Theory NCAA Picks Week 6, NFL Week 5

2010-10-07T19:20:00.003-04:00

How's that money feel in your pocket after that Tuesday night cash dash? Pretty nice eh? Plenty more where that came from. Prepare to copy:

Troy +4- Been there, won that. If you didn't write it down the first time, what's your problem? You allergic to money or something? Vaccines listed below.

South Florida -8 Vs Syracuse- USF hates the Orange, so much so that Syracuse has never covered when playing them. Last season in the Carrier Dome, this spread was 7 and USF went on to doppelgang Syracuse and Greg Paulus. The Orange have surprisingly a pretty nice offense going with QB Ryan Nassib, RB Delone Carter and WR Van Chew in a UN sponsored lineup. The only problem is they have been doing most of this against schools named after toothpaste. The only D1 school they lined up with was Washington and they had their skin peeled. USF looks to be getting their offense together under Skip Holtz as they handled in state wanna be rival Florida Atlantic last weekend. I think USF is still finding their identity under the new regime and getting a big conference win early will do good for them, and my account.

Tennessee +11 At Georgia- I don't really understand the line here. Tennessee just beat and covered a 17 point spread on the road at LSU before stupidity showed up and took the W away from them. Tennessee loves to cover in conference on the road, especially against Georgia, a team that stands a good chance of coming out of this game 1-5. If that happens, say goodbye to Mark Richt, in fact, put an APB out on him if they lose this game because he will need to go in to hiding. Tennessee with the youngest Simms offspring is still forward pass challenged but they do have a pretty solid running game with Tauren Poole. Georgia is fairly ordinary against the run and is 1-4 ATS this season and 1-4-1 (looks like my NFL record) in their last 6 against Tennessee. Big conference game and a must win for the Bulldogs but they don't have enough offensive weapons to blow out the Volunteers.

Alabama-7 At South Carolina- The fake USC was just owned by another SC, the Supreme Court, as they ruled on their frivalous lawsuit against the rightfully named USC and said essentially to calls yourselves the University of South Carolina and like it. With that said, they now have to worry about the Tide rolling in who just came off their best game of the season as they dead horse kicked Florida. South Carolina has had a bye to prepare for the Tide but they didn't find a quarterback during that time off and they will have very little success moving the ball consistently without turnovers against the Alabama defense. I don't know how good Brantly is but I know Stephen Garcia hates winning and completing games without being pulled. That will continue. Alabama already has a huge road win and knows what it takes to do so. Southy Car is setting itself up for another fall after their loss to Auburn.

Auburn-6 At Kentucky- Auburn is still sitting here this week undefeated and really only has a meeting with Alabama left to decide their fate as they should be favored the rest of the way in conference. Cam Newton is just starting to morph into a guy that can lead his team from behind and make plays when they need them like he did on the road against Southy Car. Kentucky was last seen getting the doors blown off of them by a really bad (by their standards) Florida offense that has no identity. In comes Gene Chizek and a team that isn't taking anything for granted, already with two big road conference wins. I like Auburn in this spot a lot.

Northwestern-9 vs Purdue- Here's a spread that is on the move as faith in the Wildcats is fading. Not so fast my friend! Dan Persa is primed for a big game here against an awful pass defense in Purdon't and who still doesn't know what to do with the loss of Robert Mavre at quarterback. Northwestern may not be as good as I think they are and Vegas may be on to that, but, I still believe in my quarterback theory and the fact that Purdon't doesn't have one right now gives the Persa led future lawyers and doctors at least a 10 point advantage. Purdue is a terrible 2-12 on the road lately and just lost to Toledo. Write that down. Along with directions to the cash cage.

Stanford-10 Vs USC- USC is about to get hurt here. Bad. They come in with the worst pass defense out of any Division 1 team you know, the three you don't know who are worse, don't matter. Andrew Luck is going to be very angry after letting that Oregon game get away from them. Even more angry is my favorite timeout calling cover machine, Jim Harbaugh who hates USC. Lane Kiffin is in a tough spot with kids who don't care enough due to the fact they have nothing to play for. Losing at home to Washington, a team that two years ago was making winless look stylish is not the kind of game you want to have in the rear view heading to play the Cardinal. This could get ugly.

UTEP-9 Vs Rice- Rice is so bad, I wish they would cancel the program. Surprisingly though, they traditionally play UTEP well which could cause some early confusion about who's pocket the money should jump into. Not to worry fellow Theorists. UTEP has a unique atmosphere and passionate fans. Rice knows nothing about stopping the team who has the ball which will ultimately lead to a two touchdown or more loss and a nice deposit in the account.

============================BREAK NFL OPORDER TO FOLLOW===========================

Not much NFL action simply because I am very disinterested with the football death of my Chicago Bears and Jay Cutler. With that said and the Soldier's Creed read, I drive on:

Green Bay-3 At Washington- Green Bay seems like they are about due for a quality offensive performance, specifically in the air since they cant run don't you think? Well bring on the Redskins and their 31st ranked pass D and we just might get that. Washington hates to cover at home as they are 4-11-1 of late and will be without their horse Clinton Portis in the backfield. How much faith McNabb has in anyone he has to hand off to will be key because he has no receiving threats. Reigning defensive MVP Charles Woodson is on the other side of the ball and just returned one for 6 last week. McNabb may toss him a bone or three. Aaron Rodgers wasn't even mentioned until just now. Happy?

Houston-3 Vs New York- Don't be confused with that Giants Bears game, the Giants have zero offense and will be going into a hostile environment with a team that likes to chuck it around. Regardless of whether Andre Johnson will be full strength or not, their running game has been dominant as well. Eli Manning is not very good on the road and has already proven he can't compete in a shoot out as big brother dealt him a beating back in week 2. Matt Schaub needs to get going early as there are plays to make against a week secondary but they must try something that Chicago didn't do and that's employing pass protection.

Jets-4 Vs Vikings- I went team name here because i didn't realize it until just now. The Jets are clicking right now while the Vikings look confused on offense still. They know they can run but where is the pass? In comes Randy Moss and that looks great on paper but it won't fix their woes in 2 days of practicing against a Jet's team that has more than enough film to watch on how to take away Moss. He may get a deep ball or three chucked his way from Ol' whats his name but the two headed monster in the Jets backfield and surprisingly solid play from Sanchez will bring a win and a cover.

GO GET PAID!! (I Will)

Don't forget Game Theory Radio tonight at 9pm!

www.blogtalkradio.com/gametheory

Game Theory Recap

2010-10-05T20:04:00.005-04:00

Is this site still up? A pathetic 3-6-1 fellow Theorists(if any still exist) bringing me to a lack luster 13-22-3 on the year. We did connect on my teaser debut and that was a heavy unit play which has kept us in the black despite that awful overall record. Catch the recap show tonight at 9pm on Blogtalkradio at www.blogtalkradio.com/gametheory. Feel free to call in and tell me how fed up with my mediocrity you are.

Until then, take Troy +4 to make up for it.

Game Theory NCAA Picks Week 5, NFL Picks Week 4

2010-09-30T17:36:00.004-04:00

Alright fellow Theorists, my action in the college realm has been tuned down a tad as I have identified more of a money making probability in the NFL arena this weekend. Remember to tune in tonight at www.blogtalkradio.com/gametheory at 9pm for the Vegas Takedown Show. Until then, read on. NCAA action first, NFL follows:

Oklahoma State -3 Vs Texas A&M- OK State will be showcasing in primetime the nation's number one offense led by Brandon Weeden and Kendall Hunter. Both of these kids are studs with the football and will not have a problem putting up points against a pretty solid A&M defense. With one exception, A&M has accrued those numbers against two marginal teams and struggled at home with a Florida International program that is still in its infancy in comparison. A&M is primed for the fall and Ok State will take advantage of the national audience in an effort to establish themselves as contenders in a down year for the Big 12.

Notre Dame -3 At Boston College- Hey Brian Kelly, how's that new gig working out for ya? Don't worry, just when it couldn't get any worse, you get a bad Boston College team starting a true frosh at QB. The truth of the matter here is that Boston College can't stop the forward pass as they are giving up nearly 284 yards per game and the Irish toss it around at 315 per contest. That's all they have to do to win. Force the frosh to play catch up and into youthful turnovers. This of course will cause all the Irish honks to trumpet the fact that if they win out from here they can still play in a BCS bowl. Better luck buying a Hyundai.

Maryland -7 Vs Duke- Here's a spread that is on the move but we've locked it in early. Duke is probably the worst team in the nation, worse than even Rice. Last week they were bottle rocketed by an Army team full of guys my size. Last year's success in the ACC has bought them more credit than they can cover. Vegas is making a mistake here. Maryland features a duel threat at QB and RB and hates to lose to Duke, 4-1 in their last 5. This is not the year Duke is going to go on the road and play spoiler. Maryland has played well against West Virginia and took out a tough FIU team by two touchdowns. I like the value here and the money Vegas doesn't appear too interested in holding on to.

Stanford +7 At Oregon- I know Stanford hates to cover ATS when playing the Ducks as they are 2-6 the past 8 games, BUT, that was not this Cardinal team. Andrew Luck again will be the player on the field and Oregon is loaded. Last week I told you before they Campbell Soup canned Notre Dame that the run would be their strength as they have had no issue replacing Toby Gerhardt. The 4 runners over 100 yards they had going into that game have to make way for a 5th. 5 rushers with over 100 yards. That's a lot of diversity in the back field to game plan for and on top of that, you still have to defend Luck, Dough Baldwin and Ryan Whalen. The Ducks should have lost last week but the turnovers were the story in that game. That was Oregon's first big game of the season and they looked unprepared which I don't think they were. I just think they were used to punching without being punched back. Coach Jim Harbaugh is likes to fight guy and will play an entire 60 minutes. Oregon may pull this out but its going to be closer than a touchdown.

3 Team Teaser- Pad the account with this coffer thief:
Michigan-4, Alabama -2, Iowa -1: Michigan can cover the 4 even with that defense and Denard Robinson is clear for takeoff. Bama realized running the ball is all they need to do to win. Don't be fooled by the Florida kid who scored 6 touchdowns against Kentucky. That was Kentucky. Penn State always plays Iowa tough and Iowa's biggest win in the Kirk Ferentz era is 12 points from the 2003 season. It will be close as always but all they have to do is win. And they will, so we will.

--------BREAK-------------NFL OPORDER to follow-------

Money time Theorists!

Chicago +4 At New York- Before the season, I had this game as a loss for the Bears. But now the games are being played and the Giants are being seen for what they are. A bad team that has tuned out its coaches. Not good. They can't run the ball consistently which has always been their strength and in comes the number one rush defense. Eli Manning will have to do it himself. He won't because he can't. This team has looked bad all season and their lone win against Carolina was nothing for the Giants faithful to get excited about. The Bears have yet to play a complete game but they are winning. The offense has looked better each time out and they have managed to adjust to their offensive line injuries adequately enough to that Cutler is still breathing. Clearly Rod Marinelli and Mike Martz are best served as coordinators and their game plans should be topping of those the Giants staff offers. Interesting note is former Bears coach Perry Fewell is now the Defensive Coordinator in NY and may have some inside info but seeing Martz wasn't there last season, it may be for nothing. Bears win.

Colts -8 At Jacksonville- I know tradition tells me to take the Jags because the Colts struggle with spreads larger than a touchdown inside their division. But the Jags are terrible right now. Gerard is a playground fire right now and if Kyle Orton could only muster 13 points with nearly 500 yards passing, what is Gerard going to provide with barely 50? The Colts defense is good enough when it has to be, inside the 20 and the Jags cant get there. Peyton Manning is off to the best start of his career and the Jags secondary was just lilith faired by the dog executioner. The Colts have 30 by half time and I'm spending the money on baby battle and some ice cream before the start of the second half.

Jets -6 At Bills- This one makes me a bit nervous but I don't think the Bills can stay within a touchdown of the Jets here. Within 10, maybe, but 6, ill take my shot with. Hollow excitement based on the Harvard whiz kid putting up 23 on the Patriots terrible defense and CJ Spiller adding a run back. That's great but even without Revis, the Jets will shut down the Bills offense. They have the 27th ranked rush defense and this is the game the Jets have been wanting to play in an effort to utilize their pounding run game with Tomlinson and Greene. Mark Sanchez still hasn't convinced me off his ability to lead this team where it thinks it will go, but even he is better than Ryan Fitzpatrick. Jets 24-13.

Saints -14 Vs Carolina- Something hasn't looked right all season with the Saints but to their credit, they have played three tough defenses and should be 3-0 if Garret Hartley could make a field goal. Speaking of which, in comes 46 year old John Carney. When introduced to Hartley he was overheard to have said "I'm the guy who does his job, you must be the other guy". The Saints get a rookie quarterback for their defense to boost their self esteem with in Jimmy Clausen and this should prove to be a long day for the Panthers as Brees takes out his aggression.

Steelers -1 Vs Ravens- Last game before the return of Rothlisberger and they are sitting at 3-0. They know they can win with whoever is at QB as Charlie Batch was dusted off before tossing 3 TD's against the mirage of the NFC south. While this Ravens team is a bit more offensively sound and better coached, the Steelers defense is still as dominant as ever. Joe Flacco will have his hands full and Ray Rice is a bit banged up. I think this is going to be one of those field goal games where its about as exciting as watching Terrel Pryor affix another buckeye sticker to his helmet for another incompletion. With that said, someone has to win and the secondary of the Ravens is just shaky enough that Batch might be able to make one more play than Flacco.

GO GET PAID!!(We will)

Vegas Takedown Show Week 4 Tonight 9pm

2010-09-30T06:58:00.002-04:00

Come get your free hand out again at 9pm at www.blogtalkradio.com/gametheory. NCAA Football and NFL winners, a highly profitable slate to be sure. Do it.

Game Theory Recap Show Tonight 11pm

2010-09-29T19:10:00.003-04:00

Join the Blanket and I for our recap of all the weekend action as well as our brilliant wit and commentary on the goings on in sports. This is not something you should ignore. This is something you should set aside an hour for out of your day so that you will be a much more knowledgeable, well rounded sports person and sports gambler. It is also proven to make you a better person. True story.

Game Theory 6, out.

Game Theory Recap

2010-09-28T19:28:00.002-04:00

5-9. Damn, I can't mix in a push this time? 10-16-2 on the year and if it weren't for some timely teasers and parlays, we might have to hang the "closed" sign on the Game Theory offices. That of course won't be happening as we have identified a lot of profit already in the NFL and I personally will be cutting back heavily on my NCAA action as that is where I have seen my biggest trip and fall, usually my strong point. Also, I will include a teaser or parlay in my picks so you can pick up some additional monetary compensation for your investment of time in myself.

Game Theory 6, out.

Game Theory NFL Picks Week 3

2010-09-25T17:25:00.003-04:00

6 games here to feed your starving account with. Prepare to copy:

Miami -1 Vs Jets- The Jets right now can thank Braylon Edwards for the karma that will see them again fall to the hands of the Dolphins. Couple of young quarterbacks on the field and Chad Henne has been the most consistent. Plus he will enjoy the hometown crowd on his side as he attempts to navigate a depleted Jets defense sans Revis and Jenkins. Balance will be the key and a healthy dose of Ronnie Brown and Ricky Williams will be the difference maker as Henne should be able to exploit the weakness in the secondary with Brandon Marshall. I don't trust Mark Sanchez ever but I definitely don't on the road. The Dolphins defense is underrated in this spot and should cause trouble for the marginal Jets offense.

Houston -3 Vs Dallas- The sky is falling in Dallas and the Texans are hitting their stride. Houston's offense is on fire right now and the Cowboys can't get out of their own way. They have some injuries beginning to take their toll as well in the secondary as Mike Jenkins got scuffed up against the Bears. Demarcus Ware is the only Cowboy getting any pressure up front and the Linebackers are struggling to cover the middle of the field. Kevin Walters and Andre Johnson are probably the two best WR's on the same field right now and will be able to put points up with Matt Schaub tossing the ol' made in China pig skin around. Texans have an athletic, shifting defensive line and Pro Bowler Mario Williams coming off the edge. This will cause a lot of problems for the statues on the Cowboy offensive line and see Romo throw more picks and even more worthless yards. Texans easily.

Lions +11 At Minnesota- It feels weird typing that, taking the Lions by choice as well. But the Vikings are a midget circus right now and Favre looks lost. There are no offensive threats right now outside of the Adrian Peterson and the Lions will key on him daring Favre to beat them. Usually that would be easy but right now as I have said, he has no idea who to throw to. The migraine Monster has made another appearance in the head of Percy Harvin so once again he was limited in practice, further retarding the timing developments with Favre. The Vikings cant lose this game and they wont, but the Lions have heart for a chance and won't go away without a cover.

Patriots -14 Vs Buffalo- Its the Bills and Ryan Fitzpatrick. Enough said.

Bengals -3 At Carolina- The Bengals finally get a game to feel really good about themselves as rookie Jimmy Clausen will be making his first start for the seriously outmatched Panthers. Palmer, Owens, Johnson, and Benson should all have huge games as Clausen will play keep away....from his own team. The Panthers are a used tire fire and will have a hard time keeping this one under 30.

Steelers -3 At Tampa- I could play quarterback and still get a point or two on the road with this Steelers defense. Troy Polamalu has been huge as well as James Harrison. They don't need more than a field goal to win right now and if they cant get that, a safety may suffice as the 2-0 Bucs will be exposed for the weak team that they are. Beating the Browns and Panthers is nothing to get hyped up about but as usual, ESPN picks a toy pony, inserts their money, and begins to ride. Ignore that and take the money Vegas is begging you not to. Steelers roll.

GO GET PAID!!(Again)

US Walks Out On Ahmadinejad At UN General Assembly

2010-09-24T19:28:00.002-04:00

It has been quite some time since I allowed myself to comment on something happening outside of the sports world in this space, mostly due to my ever growing disappointment with the current presidential administration. Today however, I was impressed by what our delegation to the UN along with our allies did as Iranian president Ahmadinejad made his speech. In what has grown predictable, commonplace, and largely for theatrical purposes, Ahmadinejad began to lay out his theories for American responsibility in the 9/11 terrorist attacks on the United States. Yawn. We've heard this tired rhetoric before from this clown but today, we along with our allies, responded. As he spoke, our delegates got up and walked out effectively shutting down this Napoleonic syndrome suffering wanna be tough guy. This is the same historical expert who believes the Holocaust never took place.

The time has come for our President to speak with the same audacity that Ahmadinejad does in addressing his remarks. No longer should we sit idly by while he makes a mockery of the UN (which isn't that hard), our country, and the intelligence of the American people, along with the resources we have committed to the protection of this wanna be Hitler while he spends his time in our country under our care. Far be it from me to give the UN advice on how to handle it's affairs, but while I have the stick, I believe I will. Until he stops making his anti-Semitic remarks and his unfounded claims about 9/11, he should be banned from attendance at any further UN assemblies and meetings. Giving Hitler Jr a platform to spew his hatred is exactly what we should not be doing. He is not afforded the freedom of speech in our country so there is no reason to grant it to him while he paces about American soil. He is a terrible representation of the Iranian people and is only further isolating his otherwise progressive nation. As he continues to threaten Israel with annihilation, the Israelis will soon run out of patience and will strike Iran. Our unflappable support of Israel will be needed and we had better be prepared to give it. I am.

Game Theory NCAA Week 4 Picks

2010-09-23T18:29:00.003-04:00

Alright fellow Theorists, we're going at Vegas hard this weekend with 7 games in the college realm. We've stayed comfortably in the black since the start of the season and now it's time to take some of that extra COH and put it to work for us. Let's get this money:

Oregon -12 At Arizona State- The mighty ducks right now are averaging better than 1 point per minute. Say that out loud. I don't care who the competition is, that's scary. LaMichael James gets a first down every time he carries the ball and Darron Thomas has been efficient, though id like to see his completion percentage creep up a little higher. He is however, finding the end zone. More scary may be the defense. Oregon has always had a high powered offense but now they have a defense that can hold serve and get the ball back when the offense sputters as they did in Rocky Top. Arizona State won't drop dead at the Ducks droppings, but I think Oregon may be the best team in the nation right now and are easily two touchdowns better in this spot. And Az St is a less than classy 0-5 ATS in their last 5 with Oregon. Ducks bring us bills.

LSU -9 Vs West Virginia- Death Valley at night = bad news for West Virgina. LSU seems to be squared away now under Les Miles after playing the rebuilding game the past few seasons. The defense is what is key for them as they are holding the opposition to 11.3 per contest. Stevan Ridley is a quality back and they have studs on the outside to the point that they cant get them all on the field. West Virginia was almost upset by Marshall of all squads a few weeks back and that to me speaks of a poorly coached team. Coach Stewart has always been the other guy on the staff before taking over for Richie Rod, now he will be the other guy in this game as Les Miles gets the easy nod in the coaching column. I like LSU by at least 10 in front of an adult beverage fueled crowd.

South Carolina +3 At Auburn- The Cam Newton experiment isn't working well enough yet for them to get this one from the Ol' ball coach and what seems like 12th year QB Stephen Garcia. Spurrier has relied heavily on the running game and that has paid dividends early. Auburn has largely been an over hyped non covering machine at this stage of the season and I think for a second straight week, they will not deliver in the moment. Only difference is, this isn't a rebuilding ACC program on the same field as them. Southy Car is a legitimate conference contender and defensively right now is playing lights out. I like South Carolina to get the outright W 24-20.

Stanford -5 At Notre Dame- It seems the wheels have fallen off earlier than usual on the annual Irish hype machine. This game boils down to the quarterbacks, plain and simple and Andrew Luck is the best player on the field. 10 touchdowns and 0 interceptions and now he goes up against a perennially terrible Notre Dame pass defense who will have fun trying to defend Baldwin and Whalen. Replacing Toby Gerhardt was no issue either as they have 4 backs who have carried the mail for more than 100 yards. I don't think the Irish can keep Stanford out of the endzone enough and that will ultimately see them fall by at least a touchdown late.

Alabama -7 At Arkansas- This wasn't even a contest last year as the Tide rolled to a 4 touchdown victory and now this Bama team may even be better. They definitely are on the offensive side of the ball and now that Mark Ingram is back healthy, having to stop him and Richardson will be impossible for the Arkansas defense. Ryan Mallet was terrible last year and should play better. He has to. His play will be pivotal and he should get a boost at home but I don't see the defense being strong enough to keep the Tide from scoring. Alabama begins their difficult SEC stretch and they know they can take no games off if they want any shot at repeating. Two snakes at the helm as well but Saban is still the King Cobra in this one. Alabama 31-21.

Tulane +20 At Houston- I told you on last weeks show that on principle alone, I have to take anyone playing Houston's third string quarterback until they prove to Vegas and my bank account that they can still play at a high level. This spread looks like it still will feature Case Keenum under center. EHHHHHHHHHHN!! Not happening. Tulane is offensively challenged but they do run the ball well enough to keep Houston's defense from getting too many 3 and outs and Houston does not stop the run very well. I also don't like the psychology of this team right now. Last weekend they were trying to establish themselves as a potential BCS buster and now they aren't even in their conference discussion with the loss of not one but two quarterbacks. Deflated and emotional, I think they come sluggish and struggle all afternoon to a close win 24-13

Northwestern -7 Vs Central Michigan- The Dan Persa money train keeps rolling! Still no interceptions thrown and still over 80% completion percentage. I love this guy. He is going to win us a lot of money Theorists, write that down. But if he fails to cover in this spot against a team struggling to replace Dan Lefevour, he will be banished to gambling timeout. I don't see that being much of a problem however, as this team hates to give up points. Central Michigan is an quality offense but they don't have the defensive personnel to contain Persa and his stable of receivers. Northwestern at home is a different animal as well, an animal that resembles money. I like!

Remember what I said about NC state as well over the airwaves.

GO GET PAID!!(we will)

Vegas Takedown Show Week 3

2010-09-23T13:10:00.001-04:00

Tonight on Blogtalkradio at www.blogtalkradio.com/gametheory at 9pm. If you like money and you want more of it, then you need to listen to this show. The Blanket and I will be pounding Vegas this weekend an you'll want to tune in for the order of march for how you can to.

Do it.

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