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January 8th, 2009 02:26 PM #1
The Hand of Justice
Service Plays Thursday
John Ryan
15* Florida Gators -4
BIG AL
5* Florida
Larry Ness
25* Club Play-BCS Title Game
The BCS title game is a tale of two teams but also two QBs. First to the QBs. The Gators suffered what looked to be a devastating 31-30 loss at home to Ole Miss (Florida missed an extra-point) on September 27. Devastating in terms of Florida's national title hopes and to Tebow's chances of joining Archie Griffin as just the Heisman's second repeat-winner. While Tebow had a season-high 319 yards passing in the Ole Miss game plus two rushing TDs, he had thrown for just six TDs and rushed for only 125 yards (2.6 YPC) over Florida's first four games. Tebow guaranteed after that loss that no team and in fact no player, would work harder the rest of the year than he and his Gator teammates. Tebow was a prophet. The Gators enter their second national championship game in three seasons on a nine-game winning streak (8-0 ATS), winning by the combined scores of 445-117. The most recent win in that nine-game streak came in Florida's 31-20 win over then-No. 1 Alabama in the SEC championship game. Tebow completed 14-of-22 passes for 216 yards with three TDs and no INTs, while adding 57 yards rushing on 17 carries. Tebow had 22 TD passes (just two INTs) plus added 10 rushing TDs in Florida's nine-game winning streak. As for Bradford, he capped a memorable regular season by completing 34-of-49 passes for 384 yards with two TDs and no INTs, as Oklahoma cruised to a 62-21 win over Missouri in the Big 12 championship game. Much has been made of Florida's nine-game winning streak since the Ole Miss loss, but how about Oklahoma's seven-game winning streak since the Texas loss? Bradford topped 300 yards in six of those seven games, throwing 25 TD passes against just one INT, plus added three rushing TDs. The Sooners averaged 59.9 PPG during those seven games, becoming the first team in CFB history to top 60 points in five straight games, over the team's final five games of that streak). The Sooners have scored 702 points (54.0 per), the first team in modern history to crack the 700-point plateau. Bradford had a terrific freshman year in 2007, throwing for 3,121 yards (69.5 percent completions) with 36 TDs and eight INTs. His 36 TD passes were a new NCAA freshman single-season record and his QB rating of 176.52 led the nation. His current QB rating of 186.3 again leads the nation and he's already easily surpassed last year's TD pass (48) and passing yards (4,464) totals, with his BCS title game showdown against Tebow and Florida still left to be played. Bradford has 11, 300-yard passing games this season, breaking the single-season school record set by Josh Heupel (eight) in 1999 and 13 in his career (two have been 400-plus games). His 48 TD passes for the year extends the school record he already owns, surpassing the 40 Jason White threw in his 2003 Heisman season. How dominant have Bradford's first two seasons really been? His two TD passes against Missouri extends his total to 84 through his sophomore season, which is the all-time record for any QB through his first two seasons (freshman and sophomore years). Who is second on that list? Try Rex Grossman, who had 55 TD passes in his first two years with the Gators. So does this come down to just Tebow vs Bradford? Not at all. Let's call the QB battle even (for the sake of argument) and let's give the Gators an edge with Percy Harvin (35 catches / 17.0 YPC / 7 TDs plus 538 yards rushing / 8.8 YPC / 9 TDs) at 90 percent for this game while DeMarco Murray (1,000 YR / 5.6 YPC / 14 TDs plus 31 catches) is listed as out. Also, it's hard to not argue in favor of Florida owning the besrt defense, as teh Gators have allowes about 80 YPG less this year than the Sooners, while allowing 12.8 PPG to Oklahoma's 24.5. However, here's why I really think this is a two-TD win for the Gators. Reason No. 1 is that the Big 12 South has been 'exposed' in this year's bowl season. Oklahoma St led Oregon 17-7 in the Holiday Bowl only to lose 42-31, allowing 565 yards. Texas Tech jumped out 14-0 (in the semi-home field environment of the Cotton Bowl) on Ole Miss, only to lose 47-34 (allowed 515 yards). Then there is Texas, which led the "BCs title-game whipping boys" frnm Ohio St 17-6 in the 4th quarter of Monday's Fiesta Bowl, only to almost lose. Texas watched helplessly as the Buckeyes (representing the Big 10, which concluded TY's bowl season 1-6!) drove 80 and 73 yards om consecutive possessions, to grab a 21-17 lead. While the terrific Colt McCoy saved the Longhorns' 'bacon' with a game-winning 11-play, 78-yard drive of his own, the fact is, the Big 12 South teams have looked anything but dominate this bowl season. Then there are the two head coaches. Urban Meyer's legend began at Bowling Green, going 17-6 in 2001-02, including 5-0 vs schools from BCS conferences. He then when to Utah for the next two seasons, winning 22 of 24 games, including leading the Utes to a Fiesta Bowl win over Pitt in 2004, as Utah became the first non-BCS school to play in a BCS Bowl. He's 43-9 at Florida since 2005 and on the verge of his 2nd national championship on Thursday (beat Ohio St 41-14 in 2006, as 7.5-point underdogs!). Oklahoma's Bob Stoops became known as "Big Game Bob" for winning a national title at Oklahoma in his second year (2000) and owning a terrific record against top-10 teams in his first few seasons. However, things began to unravel for that "Big Game Bob" label with a 35-7 loss to Kansas St in the 2003 Big 12 championship game (Sooners were favored by two-TDs) and a subsequent loss to LSU in that year's BCS title game (lost 21-14 as a seven-point favorite). Oklahoma lost the following year in the BCS title game to USC (55-19) and the last two seasons, has lost Fiesta Bowl games to Boise St (you all remember that one!) and West Va, each time as seven-point favorites! Let's not forget that Oklahoma led Texas 28-20 in the 3rd quarter back on October 11, before McCoy led the Longhorns on four straight second-half scoring drives (three TDs and one FG) and to a 45-35 win. Oklahoma won seven straight after that but after this bowl season, is anyone impressed with closing wins over Texas Tech, Okla St and Missouri? Case closed!
25* Club on Florida
Brandon Lang
50 Dime Florida
Spylock
Oklahoma
Gimme the loot.
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January 8th, 2009 02:28 PM #2
The Hand of Justice
Lenny Del Genio
BCS Play of the Year
Florida -3.5 vs Oklahoma
I think we've all seen enough of this fraudulent Big 12 for one Bowl Season. Missouri could barely beat Northwestern. Texas could barely beat Ohio State. These were games against the Big 10 conference, a league that combined to go 1-6 SU this bowl season with the only other cover coming via Iowa against what appeared to be a VERY disinterested South Carolina game. We were leaning towards Florida when this pairing was originally announced, but waited to see how another Big 12 team would perform before jumping all over the Gators. That game would be the Cotton Bowl where Florida's SEC rival Ole Miss (only team to beat the Gators) throttled the Big 12's Texas Tech. That was proof positive to us which conference was the best in America. In a game where the offenses have grabbed all the pregame headlines, it will likely be the defenses that decide the outcome.. Florida clearly has the better stop unit. Other than USC, no defense in the country has better overall team speed, a prerequisite for dealing with this fast-break attack of Oklahoma. Turnover battle will of course be key, and once again that points to a Gators victory. In seven of 13 games, the Florida defense forced three or more turnovers. In 10 of 13 games, the offense coughed it up either once or zero times. At 12.8 PPG, Florida gives up about half as many points per game as what the Sooners do. They have covered seven straight against teams averaging 34+ PPG. Their average margin of victory down the stretch was nearly 37 PPG (L7 games). Sam Bradford might have won the Heisman, but Tim Tebow is the best playmaker on this field. Florida is our BCS Play of the Year.
Lenny Del Genio
BCS Play of the Year
Florida -3.5 vs Oklahoma
I think we've all seen enough of this fraudulent Big 12 for one Bowl Season. Missouri could barely beat Northwestern. Texas could barely beat Ohio State. These were games against the Big 10 conference, a league that combined to go 1-6 SU this bowl season with the only other cover coming via Iowa against what appeared to be a VERY disinterested South Carolina game. We were leaning towards Florida when this pairing was originally announced, but waited to see how another Big 12 team would perform before jumping all over the Gators. That game would be the Cotton Bowl where Florida's SEC rival Ole Miss (only team to beat the Gators) throttled the Big 12's Texas Tech. That was proof positive to us which conference was the best in America. In a game where the offenses have grabbed all the pregame headlines, it will likely be the defenses that decide the outcome.. Florida clearly has the better stop unit. Other than USC, no defense in the country has better overall team speed, a prerequisite for dealing with this fast-break attack of Oklahoma. Turnover battle will of course be key, and once again that points to a Gators victory. In seven of 13 games, the Florida defense forced three or more turnovers. In 10 of 13 games, the offense coughed it up either once or zero times. At 12.8 PPG, Florida gives up about half as many points per game as what the Sooners do. They have covered seven straight against teams averaging 34+ PPG. Their average margin of victory down the stretch was nearly 37 PPG (L7 games). Sam Bradford might have won the Heisman, but Tim Tebow is the best playmaker on this field. Florida is our BCS Play of the Year.
RON RAYMOND
BCS CHAMPIONSHIP GOY
FLORIDA/OKLAHOMA UNDER 69.5
Brand X Sports
Florida Gators versus Oklahoma Sooners
Line Florida -3 Total 72
I know the Sooners are #1 but I really believe USC or Alabama could easily beat the Sooners on a neutral field. Oklahoma is a scoring machine but they have not played a defense even close to the Gators level.
Florida is grooving on being ranked #2 and is playing at home in Joe Robbie Stadium.
Tim Tebow may have lost out to Sam Bradford for the Heisman but Tebow had always said that the most important trophy is the National Champion Trophy.
Superman will get to raise that trophy over his head Thursday night.
5* Florida Gators -3
Street Rosenthal
Fla -5
Under 70
Smart Money
Florida vs Oklahoma
Play: Florida -3 / 2 units
Two explosive offenses Florida and Oklahoma go head to head in the national championship game this Wednesday night. Both have numerous attack weapons, and both have top notch pivots with the Sooners Sam Bradford and the Gators Tim Tebow orchestrating their respective attacks.
The difference maker however comes on the defensive side of the ball, where Florida is head and shoulders above Oklahoma's pedestrian stop unit. The Gators allow just 12.8 PPG this season, while the Sooners allowed 24.5 PPG on the season via 359.1 YPG , and 28.7 PPG away from home.
The Gators D ranked 5th in the nation, second with 24 interceptions and eighth with 279.3 yards a contest.
I know people who talk and bet these type of affairs, sound like broken records, and say the same thing over and over again. So I will not disappoint anyone, and will repeat the obvious, that being, that defense wins big games and championships, and once again this holds true key to which side comes out on top here.
The Sooners were smashed 55-19 by USC in the Orange Bowl in 2005 and were tripped up by a 21-14 count to LSU in the '04 Sugar Bowl, and I am betting another negative result will get added to that list after tonight.
Final notes & Key Trends: Florida is a perfect 7-0 ATS against an above ,500 team this season, winning SU by an average of 35.1 PPG. The Gators are also 7-0 ATS vs teams like Oklahoma that have outscored their opposition by 10 points or more per game, winning SU by an average of 25.4 PPG.
Projected score: Florida 41 Oklahoma 28
John Fina
Florida GOY
WinningAngle
Play on Oklahoma (+5) over Florida*
(Top NCAA Guarantee)
Oklahoma has won 13 of the last 14 games when the total posted is greater than 63 points and they have also won 7 consecutive games coming off four or more consecutive OVER the totals. Oklahoma has scored at least 60 points in five consecutive games and they are averaging over 54 points a game on offense this season.
Play on Oklahoma plus the points on Thursday
Scott Spriezter
TKO Florida
Frank Patron
15000 unit
Oklahoma Sooners +5
Brian Edwards
Oklahoma vs. Florida
Pick: Under 70.5
Gimme the loot.
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January 8th, 2009 02:29 PM #3
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January 8th, 2009 02:30 PM #4
The Hand of Justice
Lenny Del Genio
Florida at Oklahoma
Prediction: Over
Gold Sheet
OKLAHOMA (12-1) vs. FLORIDA (12-1)
*Florida 37 - Oklahoma 27—While the fatally-flawed BCS continues to court controversy, it would be hard to argue that the convoluted system didn’t produce a title game matchup this year that just about every college football fan outside of Austin, Texas (and Salt Lake City?) can’t wait to see. And even a lot of Longhorn & Ute fans are probably secretly looking forward to this clash of one-loss juggernauts, a pair of torrid teams that have combined to cover 21 of their 24 lined games this season. Oklahoma followed its setback to Red River rival UT in early October with a stupefying display of offensive puissance down the stretch, cracking the 60-point barrier in each of its last five games! And 2006 national champ Florida has been similarly dominant since its surprising late-September home loss to Ole Miss, dragooning its next nine foes by an eyepopping aggregate score of 445-117! Would it be a shock if the underdog Sooners are able to ride their seeminglyunstoppable offense (562 ypg) to a small upset? Hardly. Rarely have we seen a college field general with more impressive control over an attack than OU’s Heisman-winning QB Sam Bradford (48 TDP vs. only 6 ints.), who has the receiving weapons & pass protection to torch the stoutest of stop units. Would it be a big surprise if this game turns into an offensive shootout, with Bradford and indomitable Gator QB Tim Tebow, the 2007 Heisman winner, trading points in a last-team-with-the-ball-wins sort of scenario? Definitely not. However, we believe that this game is likely to take a slightly different track. It’s clear that the superior defense belongs to Florida, which has allowed more than 21 points just once all season. Taking nothing away from the recordsetting accomplishments of the Sooner offense, but OU is yet to run up against any stop unit that has the overall talent and speed possessed by the Gators’ pugnacious platoon. Sure, even UF figures to have a tough time preventing the balanced Sooner attack from moving the chains in the spacious middle of the field. But converting yards into points might not come so easy for OU against a Gator defense that has the quickness & depth up front to get some pressure on Bradford and enough athleticism in the back 7 to blanket the Sooner receivers in the tighter confines of the red zone. No, it’s actually Florida’s offense—thanks to the relentless Tebow’s FB-like running near the goal line and speedy WR/RB Percy Harvin’s nose for the end zone (he’s scored at least one TD in each of his last 14 games and will be ready for action after sitting out the SEC title game with a sprained ankle)—that will likely be most efficient at cashing in drives for scores, giving the favored Gators a good shot at covering the oddsmaker’s fair (although not insubstantial) impost. (DNP...SR: FIRST MEETING)
Logical Approach
There is much to recommend BOTH teams in this game as their identical S/U and ATS records are a combined outstanding 24-2 and 20-4! Each has exceeded the lofty expectations set for them and both were playing their best and most dominant football as the regular season ended. Oklahoma scored at least 60 points in each of their last 5 games (and scored 58 in the game before the streak started). Florida held 12 of their 13 opponents to 21 points or less. Florida's better defensive stats may be due to the SEC having so many weak offenses this season - 6 of the 12 SEC teams ranked in the bottom 23 in total offense! Oklahoma faced many high powered offenses, thus making their defense appear weaker than it really was. 6 of the 12 Big 12 teams ranked in the top 12 nationally in total offense and another 4 teams ranked in the top 50. Both teams faced decent non-conference opposition as Florida defeated in-state rivals Miami and Florida State while Oklahoma defeated BCS Bowl bound Cincinnati and a very strong TCU. Both teams bring lengthy S/U and ATS winning streaks into this game. Both teams have rather spotty Bowl records in recent seasons although each has won a BCS Title within the past decade. Both teams have lost 4 of their last 6 Bowls. Since 2000 Oklahoma is 102-18 straight up; Florida 86-29. Both teams have Heisman Trophy winning QBs with Florida's Tim Tebow winning last season and OU's Sam Bradford this season. Both offenses rarely turn the ball over (Florida lost 11 turnovers, Oklahoma 9) while both defenses excelled at creating them (UF forced 33, OU 32). Both defenses excelled against the run (ranking # 16 and 18) and while Florida had the better pass defense statistically (#19 vs # 100) that was, as stated earlier, because they faced some incredibly weak offenses, especially passing offenses. Florida's biggest edge is in special teams which clearly could play a factor in what shapes up as a high scoring, fast paced game of big plays. Both teams have outstanding credentials and are well coached. In a game of this magnitude the underdog always has a chance to pull the upset as BOTH teams know how to win and have done so all season. Florida does have the advantage of playing in state and that is factored somewhat into their being favored. But in the end the key is that the Oklahoma defense is perceived as being weak and the Florida defense is perceived as being strong. But for the reasons mentioned above those perceptions may be erroneous or at least may have created more influence than is justified. The call is for Oklahoma to win 31-28, making
OKLAHOMA a 2 Star Selection
UNDER a 3 Star Selection .
Nelly’s Green Sheet
BCS CHAMPIONSHIP GAME 7:15 PM
Florida (-3) Oklahoma (72)
A look at the total offensive numbers would lead you to backing Oklahoma but the these teams play at a significantly different pace and Oklahoma has the most impressive yardage numbers because they ran more plays than just about every other team. While Florida posted 442 yards per game and averaged 45 points per game, Oklahoma delivered averages of 562 yards per game and 54 points per game. On the other side of the ball Oklahoma’s defensive numbers make the Sooners look mediocre to lousy but far more plays were run against the OU defense. Florida’s defense was downright dominant, allowing fewer than 13 points per game with great numbers against the pass. The common denominator that led both of these teams to the national championship game was great turnover margins as Oklahoma was #1 in the nation and Florida #2 in the nation in overall turnover margin on the year. In the last eight games Oklahoma has allowed at least 21 points in every game, even against some of the worst teams in the Big 12. Both teams had incredible ATS numbers on the year and a strong case could be made for either coach, as both Urban Meyer and Bob Stoops have won national titles and played in plenty of big games. Oklahoma has failed in several big games in recent years however and although the SEC was down overall this year the recent success of SEC teams in the title game is hard to argue with. Florida has an incredible record as favorites, going 13-2-1 dating back to late last season and the Gators should kickoff as slight chalk in this match-up. Oklahoma has fared well in the underdog role however although that is not a common situation in recent years. Oklahoma has had the more impressive wins this season as teams like Tennessee, LSU, Georgia, and South Carolina did not finish up as strong as many expected but the Gators delivered in a strong non-conference schedule, pounding three bowl teams including two from the highly rated ACC. The Big 12 had a lot of headlines this season but many were suckered in to the big name QBs and the gaudy offensive numbers . The overall quality of the conference was not likely as strong as many thought and the Sooners had a very favorable set-up in most of its toughest games, including the lone loss versus Texas. The college football season rarely ends in conclusive finality and an Oklahoma loss will create speculation that they may not have deserved to be in this game, which would be a fitting end. FLORIDA 34-28
RATING 2: FLORIDA (-3)
RATING 3: ‘UNDER 72’
THE SPORTS MEMO
Oklahoma vs. Florida -3 O/U 72
Recommendation: Over
It’s a long wait for these teams and for college football fans until this game is played – 27 days from the time of this writing. However, the delay is not likely to stop the anticipated offensive fireworks from happening. The offenses for both teams will be by far the best units on the field in this title game. For Florida’s defense, the Oklahoma offense is light years above anything they’ve seen thus far. Georgia’s attack was talented and diverse at the skill positions but the depth of game breaking personnel and the play of their makeshift offensive line is nowhere near what Oklahoma possesses.In their game against the Bulldogs,the Gators defense yielded 398 total yards. We project OU’s run/pass balance and dominant offensive line to assist in moving the football at a consistent rate against the speed-oriented Florida defense. Oklahoma’s offensive front allowed only 11 sacks in 476 pass attempts while paving the way to 4.8 yards per carry with a stable of running backs. On the flip side, Florida’s defense is arguably the best unit that Oklahoma will have faced. Statistically, TCU is better and the Sooners chewed them up for 35 points and 436 total yards, but Florida has more speed and better talent. What the Gators don’t have is a top-tier defensive line. Florida’s pass rush could only muster one sack against the supremely physical Alabama front, and figures to be a non-factor against OU’s equally talented unit. Without a strong rush, Oklahoma, quarterback Sam Bradford figures to have success against the Gator’s young secondary. Manny Johnson, Juaquin Iglesias Ryan Broyles and Jermaine Grisham should all combine for plenty of yardage and scoring. Every fundamental advantage for the Oklahoma offense exists for the Florida offense as well. The Gators team speed with wide receivers Percy Harvin, Louis Murphy and Riley Cooper will most surely overwhelm Oklahoma’s defense. Oklahoma’s defense has faced a multitude of explosive spread-style offenses in Big XII play and all of them accumulated significant yardage and points. Even more dynamic, quarterback Tim Tebow adds a dimension that the slew of gunslingers from the Big XII doesn’t often utilize. Tebow will force Oklahoma to respect the option running attack in addition to the short, intermediate and vertical passing games. The Gators have the whole package and there is no way for Oklahoma to simulate the speed and accuracy with which Florida runs its multi-pronged offense. We’ll will also factor in to the offensive projections the dynamic return games led by Florida speedster Brandon James and Oklahoma’s Ryan Broyles and DeMarco Murray. Good field position and short drives set up by the return games should help our cause. While this may seem like the ultimate public-square play considering the amazing 11-1 trend to the “Over” in Sooners’ games, it is hard to ignore the fundamental matchups. If we had to take a side, the Gators would get the nod but the value in our opinion, lies in the “Over” as all factors indicate that we’ll get touchdown scores on virtually every possession.
NORTHCOAST POWER SWEEP
BCS CHAMPIONSHIP
First meeting between these 2 football powers. OU will be playing for its 8th National Title while UF will try
for #3. Both HC’s have a title under their belts with Meyer winning it 2Y ago (41-14, +7’ vs OSU) & Stoops (co-
B12 COY) in ‘00 (13-2, +10 vs FSU). Meyer is 4-1 SU/ATS (2-1 w/UF) in bowls and the Gators will be playing
in the postseason for an 18th consec yr (36th overall) but are 3-6 SU/ATS L9Y. Stoops is 4-5 SU & 3-6 ATS
(3-1 SU/ATS as a bowl dog) guiding OU to its 10th str bowl (42nd overall) as the Sooners are just 1-4 SU/ATS
the L/5Y incl B2B bowl losses as 7+ favs in each. OU has been to this venue twice under Stoops: winning it
all in ‘00 and leaving with bad memories in the ‘04 Title gm losing 55-19 (+1) vs USC (outgained by 153 yds).
Both have dominated bowl tms TY as UF was 9-1 SU/ATS outscoring foes by 31 ppg & outgaining them by
159 ypg while OU went 7-1 SU & 6-2 ATS (+24 ppg & +157 ypg). The Sooners have 8 Sr starters but just 13
upperclassman (59%). UF comes in even younger with just 4 Sr starters & 10 upperclassman (45%). Overall
there will be a combined 5 Fr starting here. Despite a strong contingent of OU fans, UF should have the crowd
edge in their home state as the 5 hr/326 mile trip is nothing compared to OU’s 23 hr/1,451 mile journey.
Way back in May we picked UF to win the Nat’l Title and while there may have been a little doubt early in the
season, HC Meyer had a plan. Instead of throwing SEC Off POY Tebow out there to get banged up, he saved
him for the crucial SEC gms and as a result, Tebow’s stats fell from 253 pass ypg, 895 rush LY to 194 ypg pass,
564 rush TY. After the Ole Miss loss, Tebow took control of the tm and promised that he would play as hard as
he could & not lose another gm and he led them to the BCS Title gm. He actually had more 1st place votes in
the Heisman balloting than Bradford despite finishing 3rd overall in his quest to become the 2nd two-time winner.
UF finished #1 in the SEC in rush off (230 ypg, 6.0) as true Fr Demps (made Olympic trials in 100M), rFr
Rainey (beat Demps in 40) and 1st Tm AA WR Harvin helped save Tebow from the pounding. Harvin missed the
SEC Champ gm (ankle) but is exp to be healthy here. The UF OL avg 6’6” 315 and only all’d 16 sks (5.4%). OC
Mullen has taken the Miss St HC job but is exp to remain with the tm for this gm. UF ranks #2 in off and #6 in D.
The D made massive strides TY especially the secondary which went from #72 with 3 Fr starters LY to #5 with
3 Soph’s & 1 Fr starting TY. The DL avg 6’3” 280 and did suffer some attrition with 3 bkups lost in the 2H of the
yr but only all’d 105 rush ypg (3.3), 4th in the SEC. MLB Spikes flies to the ball earning 1st Tm AA honors TY.
UF ranks #11 in our sp tms with AA/SEC Sp Tms POY RS James who is a threat to return anything he catches
and has a great chance to add a KR TD to his resume in this one with OU’s poor kick coverage. P Henry had
the #1 net in the SEC while K Phillips was solid despite no atts from long distance (42 yd was only miss).
OU has won 3 str B12 Titles (6 overall) & is the only IA tm with 5 wins vs ranked foes. OU has been a scoring
machine TY as they have our #1 rated off (54 ppg & 562 ypg) & have dropped an NCAA rec’d 60+ on 5 str opp’s
(35+ in every gm). Their 702 pts scored is 3rd all-time (765 by Harvard in 1886). OU has eclipsed 500+ yds in
10 gms (77%) & 600+ in 4 (31%). OU is the 1st program in IA history with two 1,000+ yd rushers & a 4,000+ yd
passer in the same ssn. Heisman Winner QB Bradford (B12 Off POY) is the leader of this offensive juggernaut
& he led the NCAA in pass eff. He has thrown for 300+ yds 11x’s (85%) & has at least 2 TD passes in every gm
(4+ in 8 gms). All-B12 RB’s Murray & Brown make up the nation’s best tandem (Murray did hurt his knee on the
opening KO in the B12 Title gm, CS). WR Iglesias & TE Gresham (Mackey Finalist) provide excellent rec options.
The OL avg 6’5” 311 (4 Sr starters) paving the way for 206 ypg (4.8). They are an NFL type unit with all 5 earning All-B12 accolades (C Cooper was the B12 OLOY) all’g just 11 sks (2.3%). The def is ranked #13. The DL avg 6’4” 273 (no Sr) all’g 106 ypg (3.2) & accounts for 80% (33.5) of the tms sks. DL McCoy usually demands a double tm to stop him. The LB unit was hit hard by inj as Box’s status for the bowl is ? & losing Reynolds in the RRR was huge, but the depth is solid w/Lewis (B12 Def FrOY) & Clayton. DB Harris plays LB in some formations as well. The pass eff def is ranked #11 as OU has all’d 253 ypg (55%) with a 20-17 ratio. OU comes in at just #105 on ST & has all’d 4 KR TD’s, but keep in mind they have kicked-off 20 more times than any other tm. Two very deserving teams matchup and while each is known for their potent offense, Florida has the defensive edge. The Sooners set an NCAA record finishing the season with 5 straight 60+ pt performances but since LB Reynolds went out in the Texas gm, they’ve all’d an avg of 31 ppg. Since Florida’s loss and Tebow’s vow to carry this team they have won 9 gms (8-0 ATS) by an avg of 49-13 and that includes not having Harvin in the Championship gm. Florida also has one of the largest special teams edges in the postseason and it would be
no surprise if they finish with one or multiple ST TD’s. Florida wins their second National Title in three years.
FORECAST: FLORIDA BY 10
RATING: 4* FLORIDA
Gimme the loot.
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January 8th, 2009 02:31 PM #5
The Hand of Justice
Masterbets
Selection: Florida/Oklahoma Under
The total for this game opened very high at 73 points and has since been bet down to 70 points at most sportsbooks and even 69.5 points with some bookies. It is still worth a small wager on the Under at this level, but only a small bet because our database of stats suggests that the right total for this clash is 68 points, so it's close.
The total is inflated because of Oklahoma's staggering offensive output this season, but note that they're playing against some of the worst defenses in the country. The Big 12 teams routinely concede more than 25 points per game, whereas Florida has a stingy defense that could change the complexion of this game.
Dave Cokin
Furman @ Samford
Play: Samford -9'
The number on this game has gone up, but I agree with the movement. This is a very big game for Samford, as it's their first home game as a member of the Southern Conference and they should be fired up. The opponent is a soft touch to begin with and Furman might also be without point guard Daryl Evans, who doesn't start but logs close to 25 minutes per game, and who is probably their best floor leader. Samford was a very inhospitable host during their tenure in the OVC and I think their new conference mates may find this to be a tougher trip they may be envisioning. I'll back the home chalk tonight.
SPORTS ADVISORS
BCS CHAMPIONSHIP GAME
(1) Florida (12-1 SU, 10-1-1 ATS) vs. (2) Oklahoma (12-1 SU, 10-2 ATS) (at Miami, Fla.)
Florida and Oklahoma, each armed with a Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback, square off for the first time ever with the winner at Dolphin Stadium claiming its second national title this decade.
Since suffering a stunning 31-30 home loss to Ole Miss as a 23-point home favorite Sept. 27, the Gators have gone 9-0 SU and 8-0 ATS, winning the nine contests by a combined score of 445-117 (average of 49-13 per game). After blowing out each of the first eight teams by at least 28 points, Florida was finally tested in the SEC Championship game against then-No. 1 Alabama on Dec. 6, rallying for a 31-20 victory as a 10-point favorite. In that contest, the Gators finished with a moderate 358-323 edge in total offense (142-136 in rushing), but they forced the game’s only turnover.
Like Florida, Oklahoma also closed with a flourish. After losing 45-35 to archrival Texas as a seven-point chalk on a neutral field in Dallas in mid-October, the Sooners won seven straight games (6-1 ATS), scoring no fewer than 45 points in any of those victories. In fact, Oklahoma set a modern record by scoring more than 60 points in its final five games, including a 62-21 drubbing of Missouri in the Big 12 Championship game. QB Sam Bradford locked up the Heisman with a 34-for-49, 383-yard, two-touchdown, no-interception effort versus the Tigers, as Oklahoma rolled up a whopping 627 yards (244 rushing) and allowed 354 (60 rushing).
Oklahoma will be trying for its eighth national championship, the last coming in 2000 when it upset Florida State 13-2 as a 10-point underdog in Miami in coach Bob Stoops’ first season with the school. Including the win over Florida State, Stoops is 4-5 SU and 3-6 ATS in bowl games with the Sooners, but only 1-4 SU and ATS the last five years. That includes a 21-14 loss to LSU in the 2003 BCS title game at the Superdome in New Orleans and a 55-19 loss to USC in the 2004 championship game at Dolphin Stadium.
Also, the Sooners have suffered back-to-back stunning losses in the BCS Fiesta Bowl the last two Januarys, first falling to Boise State 43-42 in overtime as a seven-point favorite in 2007, then getting blown out by West Virginia 48-28 as an eight-point chalk in 2008. On the bright side, OU is 3-1 SU and ATS as an underdog in bowl games under Stoops.
Florida has won two national championships in its history, including a 41-14 rout of Ohio State as a 7½-point underdog in the 2007 BCS Championship Game in Arizona. Coach Urban Meyer is 4-1 SU and ATS in bowl games in his collegiate career, including 2-1 SU and ATS since arriving at Florida. The one loss came in last year’s Capital One Bowl, when the Gators fell to Michigan 41-35 as a 10-point underdog.
On its way to its third consecutive Big 12 championship, Oklahoma went 5-1 against ranked foes (4-2 ATS), and all 12 of its victories came by at least two touchdowns. Florida went 5-0 SU and ATS against Top 25 opponents, and all 12 of its wins came by a minimum of 23 points.
The Sooners faced eight bowl-eligible teams during the season, going 7-1 SU and 6-2 ATS, outscoring those opponents by 24 points per contest and outgaining them by an average of 157 yards per game. Florida won and covered nine of 10 against bowl squads, winning by 31 ppg and averaging a 159-yard edge in total offense.
Oklahoma’s record-setting offense led the nation in scoring (54 ppg), producing at least 35 points in every game. The Sooners ranked third in both total offense (562.1 ypg) and passing offense (356.5 ypg), and 19th in rushing (205.5 ypg). Meanwhile, Florida scored at least 30 points in all but one game this year (a 26-3 win over Miami, Fla.), and it finished ranked third nationally in scoring offense (45.2 ppg) and 18th in total offense (442.4 ypg). The Gators had a balanced attack, as it put up 229.8 rushing ypg (11th) and 212.6 passing ypg (60th).
Bradford, a sophomore, was the catalyst for Oklahoma, completing 68.3 percent of his passes for 4,464 yards, 48 TDs and just six INTs, and he also ran for five TDs. Bradford’s top WR targets are Juaquin Iglesias (69 catches, 1,092 yards, 10 TDs) and Jermain Gresham (58 catches, 888 yards, 12 TDs). OU also had a pair of 1,000-yard rushers in Chris Brown (1,110 yards, 20 TDs) and DeMarco Murray (1,002 yards, 14 TDs), however Murray will miss this game because of an injury suffered in the Big 12 championship game.
Gators QB Tim Tebow, who finished second to Bradford in Heisman balloting after winning the award last year as a sophomore, saw his stats fall off somewhat in 2008. He still completed 65 percent of his throws for 2,515 yards with 28 TDs and just two INTs, while rushing for 564 yards (3.7 per carry) and 12 scores. Tebow was one of five Gators who netted at least 538 yards on the ground. Other than Tebow, the biggest threat for Florida offensively is WR/RB Percy Harvin (1,135 yards from scrimmage, 16 combined rushing and receiving TDs). Harvin missed the SEC championship game with an injury, but is expected to start tonight.
The Gators own a significant defensive edge, giving up just 12.8 points and 279.3 total yards per game, including only 174 passing ypg – figures that rank fifth, eighth and 19th among all Division I-A teams. Florida allowed more than 21 points just once all season (Ole Miss) and held seven opponents to 10 points or fewer. Meanwhile, the Sooners were victims of playing in the high-scoring Big 12 and ended up allowing 24.5 points and 359 total yards per outing, including 253.1 passing ypg. Six of the final eight offenses that Oklahoma faced put up at least 28 points. However, both squads are equally strong against the run, with the Gators giving up 105.3 rushing ypg (3.3 per carry) and the Sooners yielding 106 rushing ypg (3.2 per carry).
Florida enters this title tilt on ATS hot streaks of 20-5-1 overall, 11-2-1 in non-conference play, 15-2-1 against teams with a winning record, 17-4-1 when playing on grass, 18-5-1 as a favorite and 4-0 when laying less than 10 points.
Oklahoma is on pointspread streaks of 6-0 overall, 7-1 in non-conference action, 4-0 as an underdog, 5-0 against winning teams, 10-1 after a SU victory, 20-7 following a spread-cover and 4-0 on grass. However, the Sooners have failed to cash in five straight games against the SEC and five straight bowl games in January.
Both teams are on a slew of “over” streaks. For the Gators, the “over” runs include 19-7 overall, 5-1 at neutral sites, 6-2 in non-conference action, 20-7 on grass, 6-1 in bowl games, 6-0 in January bowl games, 4-0 as a favorite and 15-3 versus winning teams. Oklahoma’s “over” streaks are 12-1 overall (including the last nine in a row), 4-1 at neutral sites, 10-2 in non-conference contests, 5-0 on grass, 2-0 in bowl games, 8-2 as an underdog and 7-0 against winning teams. The lone under trend for either team: The Sooners have stayed low in four of their last five against SEC opponents.
ATS ADVANTAGE: FLORIDA and OVER
COLLEGE BASKETBALL
(22) Minnesota (13-1, 5-3-1 ATS) at Iowa (11-4, 6-3 ATS)
The Golden Gophers go on the road for just their second true road game of the season when they visit Carver-Hawkeye Arena in Iowa City to take on Iowa in a Big Ten matchup.
Minnesota is coming off a 68-59 home win over Ohio State on Saturday, cashing as a 3½-point favorite, improving to 5-1 ATS in its last six lined contests. The Gophers held the Buckeyes to 18-of-52 shooting from the floor and enjoyed a 35-27 rebounding edge.
Iowa opened Big Ten play with a 68-65 loss at Ohio State as an eight-point underdog on Dec. 31, but bounced back Saturday and beat Indiana 65-60, coming nowhere close to covering as a 13-point favorite. The Hawkeyes held the Hoosiers to 19-of-44 shooting from the field and got a 22-point, 11-rebound performance from Cyrus Tate, who made all six of his shots.
The host has won eight of the last nine meetings between these two, including Minnesota’s 63-50 victory as a 9½-point home chalk last season. The Gophers are 9-3-1 ATS in the last 13 meetings overall and 6-1-1 in their last eight trips to Iowa.
Minnesota is just 2-5 ATS in its last seven Big Ten contests, but it is 4-1 ATS in its last five after a straight-up win. The Hawkeyes are just 2-6 ATS in their last eight home games and 2-5 ATS in their last seven Thursday tip-offs. On the opposite side, Iowa is on ATS runs of 5-2 overall in lined action, 6-2 after a non-cover and 4-1 after a straight-up win.
For the Golden Gophers, the under is on runs of 37-18 overall, 35-16-1 after a spread-cover, 13-3 against Big Ten foes, 5-1 on the road and 9-2 after a straight-up win. Iowa has stayed under the total in five of six Thursday contests, but the Hawkeyes have topped the total in five of their last seven Big Ten contests. Finally, the over is 4-2 in the last six meetings in this rivalry.
ATS ADVANTAGE: NONE
Stanford (11-1, 8-3 ATS) at Washington (10-3, 8-3 ATS)
The Huskies put their eight-game winning streak on the line when they host Stanford in a Pac-10 clash from Seattle.
Stanford split its conference-opening doubleheader last weekend, getting demolished at home by Arizona State on Friday 90-60 as a one-point favorite, but bouncing back Sunday to beat Arizona 76-60 and cash as a four-point chalk. The Cardinal are 3-0 (2-1 ATS) on the road this season, but the last time they went on the highway was Dec. 23, a 77-69 victory at Santa Clara as 4½-point favorites.
Washington’s eight-game winning streak (5-1 ATS) began with a seven-game homestand, then continued with Saturday’s 68-48 blowout of rival Washington State, with the Huskies cashing as three-point road ‘dogs. Washington is outscoring its visitors by an average of 20 points per game (79.8-59.8) and limiting those opponents to 37.8 percent shooting.
The host has won nine of the last 10 meetings between these two, but the lone road win came for Stanford last January, a 65-51 rout as a two-point road chalk. A month later the Cardinal eked out an 82-79 home win over Washington but failed to cover as 11-point favorites. Washington is 4-1 ATS in the last five matchups, and the underdog is on a 10-4 ATS run in this series.
Stanford is on several ATS streaks, including 8-2 overall, 4-1 in Pac-10 action, 5-1 after a spread-cover, 6-1 against teams with a winning record and 7-2 after a straight-up win. Washington is on ATS runs that include 6-1 overall, 4-1 against Pac-10 teams, 4-1 after a spread-cover and 4-0 on Thursday.
The Cardinal are on “over” stretches of 17-7 overall, 9-1 on the road, 6-1 in conference play, 13-5 after a straight-up win and 8-1 on the road against teams with a winning home mark. The Huskies have topped the total in five of their last six conference contests, but otherwise the team is on “under” streaks of 4-1 overall, 23-9 at home, 19-7 after a spread-cover and 9-1 on Thursday. Lastly, the under is 9-2 in the last 11 matchups in this rivalry, including 6-0 in the last six battles in Seattle.
ATS ADVANTAGE: WASHINGTON
NBA
New York (13-20, 17-16 ATS) at Dallas (21-13, 15-19 ATS)
The Mavericks look to continue their recent success against the Knicks when they host this contest at American Airlines Arena.
Dallas is on a 6-0 tear against New York (5-1 ATS), and that includes a 124-104 overtime win as a 1½-point favorite at Madison Square Garden on Nov. 16. The Mavs have also won the last eight meetings against the Knicks in Dallas (6-2 ATS). Also in this rivalry, the favorite is on a 5-1 ATS run and the road team has cashed in four of the last five.
New York followed up Sunday’s stunning 100-88 upset win over Boston as a 10-point home underdog with Tuesday’s 107-99 setback at Oklahoma City as a two-point road favorite. The Knicks have dropped eight of their last 10 overall, and they’ve followed a seven-game ATS winning streak by going 2-6 ATS in their last eight.
The Mavericks barely held off the depleted Clippers on Tuesday, winning 107-102 but coming up short as a 12½-point home chalk. Dallas is 7-2 SU in its last nine, but 2-4 ATS in its last six.
Since splitting their first four roadies of the season, the Knicks are just 3-10 SU on the highway. However, despite Tuesday’s loss to the Thunder, they’re still on a 7-2 ATS tear as a visitor (7-1 ATS as an underdog). Meanwhile, the Mavericks are 17-6 SU at American Airlines Arena, but a woeful 4-13 ATS.
New York is on ATS hot streaks of 9-2 as an underdog, 7-0 as a ‘dog of five to 10½ points and 6-2 verses winning teams, but Mike D’Antoni’s squad is 2-6 ATS in its last eight against the Southwest Division. Dallas is mired in pointspread funks of 7-20 at home, 4-12 as a home chalk, 7-20-1 on Thursday and 3-8 against winning teams, but the Mavericks are 5-2 ATS in their last seven against the Atlantic Division and 4-1 ATS in their last five after a non-cover.
The over is 5-1 in the Knicks’ last eight against Southwest Division foes, but otherwise the team is on “under” streaks of 4-0 overall, 9-3 on the road, 9-4 as an underdog, 7-2 when playing on one day of rest and 5-0 on Thursday. The Mavs also sport a bevy of “under” streaks, including 10-4 overall, 5-2 at home, 5-1 against the Eastern Conference, 9-3 against the Atlantic Division, 37-17-2 as a favorite and 9-4 when playing on one day of rest. Lastly, the under is 4-2 in the last six series clashes between these squads.
ATS ADVANTAGE: NEW YORK and UNDER
Gimme the loot.
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January 8th, 2009 02:33 PM #6
The Hand of Justice
Scott Delaney
Today's Selection
Scored with the Jazz last night, tonight we roll with the Minnesota Golden Gophers on the road at Iowa in a heated rivalry that will see the road team score a rare win in this series.
I realize the Gophers are a dismal 2-5 ATS in their last seven conference clashes, but they're also an impressive 13-1 on the year and have covered four of their last five when coming off a straight-up win.
And this is a team that is coming off a 68-59 home win over Ohio State, which knocked off this same Iowa team on New Year's Eve.
Yes, the host has won eight of the last nine meetings, but the Gophers are 9-3-1 ATS in the last 13 battles overall and 6-1-1 in their last eight jaunts to Iowa.
And since the Hawkeyes have dropped six of their last eight at home to the books, I'll take the low road chalk and bank on an outright win.
MINNESOTA GOLDEN GOPHERS
Matt Rivers
For Thursday take the points with the Knicks.
It is not the easiest thing to back a team that has pretty much quit on the season but at this number I'm all about the points with the visiting New Yorkers.
Mike D'Antonio came to town and has blown out Stephon Marbury and others and now the organization looks forward to 2010 where they will make a push for Lebron James and other big named free agents. That has left about 130 games to be played without much meaning but these Knicks do have an upside and in Big D tonight are the right side.
D'Antoni's style is to push the pace and basically run and gun. That should work fairly well here against a Western Conference team in the Mavericks. We saw about a month ago how the Knicks covered pretty much every single game out West against teams like the Lakers and Suns and Kings in competitive efforts. That tells me how these players are excited about playing up and down basketball, which the Mavs may not totally be but they are also not a plodding slow squad that plays physical in your face ball either.
The Knicks just lost at Oklahoma City which was dismal but in the game before they beat up the Celtics as the 10 point dog. Guys like Lee, Robinson, Duhon and others are talented and have the ability to compete tonight for sure.
Dirk and the Mavs have been a lot better of late after the tough 2-7 start to the season. These guys are 21-13 overall and should win this game, nobody is doubting that but the number is big enough to take a chance on tonight's visitors as the inconsistent Knicks continue to be inconsistent with a solid showing here against a far superior squad.
Chris Jordan
Florida vs. Oklahoma, at Miami
Nothing but scoreboard electricity in Miami Thursday night. You want to see action, watch the field and watch the lights. Both teams have the offensive firepower, and both teams lack the competitive nature on defense to stop the ignition.
Guys let me tell you something, when you have fast-paced offensive units like this, it's the defensive units that are actually having to work hard and the ones that are getting weary as the game progresses. With little or no time to rest and get the proper instruction from defensive coaches on the sidelines, these stop units are going to get dizzy.
Honestly, I wouldn't be surprised if these two teams get into the 80s.
Just look at these numbers: the Sooners allow an average of 359.1 yards (63rd nationally) and 24.5 points (tied for 58th nationally). And though Florida allows 279.3 yards (eighth) and 12.8 points (fourth), it hasn't faced an offense ranked higher than 38th in the nation this season. And once you get past Mississippi and Georgia, the rest rank lower than 50.
Let's be real, the Gators aren't going to try to stop Oklahoma, they're going to try to outscore them. And the Sooners are going to look to overwhem Florida's defense. Either team would be stupid to concentrate on defense.
The name of the game is score points in this one. And while the number is dropping, we're safe in playing this one high.
3♦ OVER Gators/Sooners
Karl Garrett
Oklahoma vs. FLORIDA - at Miami
BCS title game tonight, and I don't see any reason to think that a defensive battle is going to break out when high-octane Oklahoma, and quick-strike Florida take to the field in Miami.
Unless this game is being played in hurricane-like conditions, I see a very high-scoring championship game being contested.
During the regular season, the Sooners were able to score 61-points or more in their final 5 games, including the Big 12 Championship Game!
Florida was not in that stratasphere, but the Gators did ring up 42-points or more in 7 of their last 8, with the lone exception the 31 they hung on Alabama in the SEC title tilt.
The Gators are on a 19-7 OVER tear their last 26 games, and Florida has played OVER the posted price in their last 6 January bowl games.
As for the Sooners, they have topped the total in their last 9 games, and 12 of their last 13. OU is also on a 4-1 HIGH run their last 5 neutral site games.
The total is a high one, but no doubt in the G-Man's mind this one is heading OVER the posted price.
4♦ OVER
Bobby Maxwell
Knicks +8' at DALLAS
We handed you a FREE winner Wednesday with the Magic as they went to Atlanta and got the outright victory. Today we're right back on the pro hardwood with a comp selection with the Knicks as they visit Dallas.
I know the Mavericks have dominated the Knicks over the past few years, but this New York team has a way of stepping up for the best teams this season. We'll grab the points and play New York in this matchup from Dallas.
The Knicks shocked the defending champion Celtics 100-88 as a 10-point home 'dog on Sunday and then went to Oklahoma City and lost 107-99 as a two-point road chalk. They were riding a seven-game ATS streak and over their last eight games they are just 2-6 ATS. But this teams can score points and we're counting on that tonight.
Meanwhile, Dallas is just 2-4 ATS in its last six games and failed to cover against the Clippers on Tuesday, winning 107-102 as a 12 1/2-point home favorite. At home, the Mavs might be 17-6 SU but look at the important number of 4-13 ATS. They play to the level of their competition at home and just don't cover.
New York is 7-2 ATS as a road team, 7-1 ATS as an underdog and on further hot streaks of 6-2 ATS against winning teams and 7-0 as a 'dog of 5 to 10 1/2 points. We're going to play the Knicks to score enough points tonight to get us the cover. They might not win, but they'll cash our ticket.
3♦ KNICKS
Johnny Guild
Florida Gators vs. Oklahoma Sooners
The BCS National Championship Game should be an exciting battle. Florida will face Oklahoma's potent offense led by Heisman Trophy winner Sam Bradford. The Sooners' average 54 points a game, 60 or more in their last five of the season. The Gators led by quarterback Tim Tebow, who won last year Heisman Trophy and second to Bradford this year averaged 45 points. However, Florida has the better defense and is playing in their backyard.
The Gators have more playmakers and their defense will be the toughest the Sooners had to deal with. Besides their one point defeat against Ole Miss, Florida has slaughter every team they played this season. Look for Florida’s defense to inhibit Oklahoma's powerful offense and pressure Bradford. Take the speedy Gators to win their second national championship in three years. Also, the SEC conference is superior to the Big 12. The Sooners are 0-5 ATS in the last five clashes against SEC teams.
Florida Gators -5
Jimmy The Moose
Toronto Maple Leafs at Montreal Canadiens
Prediction: Montreal Canadiens
The Toronto Maple Leafs have lost 5 of their last 7 games coming into this one. Toronto is also 2-5 in their last 7 road games vs. a team with a winning home record. The Leafs have dropped 6 of their last 8 overall vs. a team with a winning record. The Canadiens are 5-1 in their last 4 vs. Eastern Conference opponents and in their last 6 overall. Montreal is 24-11 in their last 35 vs. Northeast opponents. The Leafs have lost 5 of their last 7 trips to Montreal. Play on the Montreal Canadiens -.
Brian Hansen
Tampa Bay Lightning at Phoenix Coyotes
Prediction: Phoenix Coyotes
Phoenix is coming off an embarrasing 6-0 loss at home by the hands of the Blackhawks and I look for them to have a huge bounce back game tonight against the lowly Lightning. In fact Phoenix is a great 7-3 its last 10 after scoring 1 goal or less in its previous contest; play on PHOENIX!
Frank Jordan
Florida vs. Oklahoma
Play: Over 69.5
John Fisher
Florida vs. Oklahoma
Play: Florida -5
GREG SHAKER
Florida Gators at Oklahoma Sooners
Play: Florida -3
JIM FEIST
LOS ANGELES CLIPPERS / SAN ANTONIO SPURS
Take LOS ANGELES CLIPPERS
Wild Bill
Oklahoma +3 1/2 (5 units)
Injuries are scaring me for the Sooners, however, you can't deny a club for a shot at the National title that scored over 50 points in 6 straight games and is capable of throwing the ball vs the Gator defense. Alabama did not show the offense that the Sooners will show Florida and it's time for the Sooner special teams and defense to pull out some heroics....Bradford & Gresham should hook up a few times in this one...Oklahoma 45 Florida 40...
Over 71 1/2 Fla-Oklahoma (5 units)
Gimme the loot.
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January 8th, 2009 02:36 PM #7
The Hand of Justice
Dwayne Bryant
Florida vs. Oklahoma
Play : Florida -4
Bet this one now because I have a feeling the line will go up as we get closer to kickoff. Oklahoma is yet another of the potent passing offenses of the Big 12. But let's look at how these teams have fared when they had to step outside the Big 12 in these bowl games. Missouri managed just 23 points in regulation and needed OT to beat Northwestern (Big Ten). Oklahoma State lost to Oregon (PAC-10), 42-31. Texas Tech got manhandled by Ole Miss (SEC), 47-34. And Texas barely escaped with a win over Ohio State (Big Ten), 24-21.
Other than the loss to Ole Miss, Florida has held every opponent to 21 points or less. On the other hand, Oklahoma has given up 21 points or more NINE (9) times this year. Yes, OU did blow out a lot of opponents and gave up some garbage-time points, but Florida blew out their share of opponents and STILL held them to 21 or less. The Sooners offense will be just the next of the Big 12 potent passing attacks that comes to realize that they can't put up ridiculous numbers against the tough, speedy defenses of other conferences, especially the SEC.
Think Florida will be ready? QB Tim Tebow will be out to prove that he should've won his second straight Heisman Trophy instead of OU's QB, Sam Bradford. Having an OU defensive back say that Tebow would only be the fourth-best QB in the Big 12 will only add fuel to Tebow's fire. And Tebow's fire does NOT need any more fuel. After the loss to Ole Miss, Tebow vowed that his Gators would not lose again this season. Since that loss, Tebow has totaled 32 TD's and just 2 turnovers.
The Gators are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games as a favorite of 3.5 to 10 points, and 11-3 ATS in their last 14 non-conference games. The Sooners are 1-4 ATS in their last 5 bowl games and 0-5 ATS in their last 5 vs. SEC foes.
Take Florida -4
John Ryan
NC Greensbo at Western Carolina
Prediction: Western Carolina
Drew Gordon
San Jose State at BOISE STATE -3
Gina
Los Angeles Clippers at San Antonio Spurs
The struggling Clippers have lost eight straight, just 8-26 thus far this year and have dropped 11 straight versus the San Antonio Spurs at the AT&T Center. However, the line is a bit lofty at 13. Los Angeles has covered their last five games and is 4-1 ATS in their last five versus San Antonio. Take the points! The Spurs are 1-6-1 ATS in its last 8 home games and the road team in this series has covered the spread in six of the last 7 meetings.
Los Angeles Clippers +13
Mr A
Florida Gators vs. Oklahoma Sooners
Both teams have potent offenses with top quarterbacks and will score, but the difference in this battle will be Gators' superior defense, ranked 4th and allowing an average of just 12 points per game. Oklahoma's defense is ranked 55th nationally, allowing average of 24.5 points per game. Sooners’ strong offensive line could be in a difficult position protecting quarterback Sam Bradford from Florida’s speedy defense. Take Florida in an anticipated close thrilling battle.
Florida Gators -5
NBA
New York Knicks +8
San Antonio Spurs -13
Brett Maverick Sports
Minnesota +2
Gimme the loot.
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January 8th, 2009 04:06 PM #8
Private
Looking for a few guys plays......
Looking for the national championship plays for the following guys if possible:
***Chris Jordan***
Drew Gordon
Karl Garrett
Frank Tapani
Chris Jordan and Karl Garrett's free play's were posted but looking for there actual plays if possible. Thanks to anybody and everybody that can help!!!
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January 8th, 2009 06:46 PM #9
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January 8th, 2009 06:47 PM #10
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