One of the wackier college football regular seasons is officially in the books. Conference realig...

<p>One of the wackier college football regular seasons is officially in the books. Conference realignment and the expanded playoff created more intrigue in the final weeks. There's still much to be determined during conference championship weekend, including the top four seeds and first-round byes in the 12-team playoff. We broke down the four major conference championships below.</p><h3>No. 16 Iowa State vs. No. 15 Arizona State (-2, O/U 59.5)</h3><p>The stakes in the Big 12 title game are simple: The winner punches a ticket to the College Football Playoff, and the loser is out. It's been a chaotic year in the lowly Big 12, but a champion must be crowned.</p><p><strong>Case for Iowa State</strong></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><ul>
<li>
<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/307" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/307">Iowa State</a>'s two November losses almost sank the ship. However, muddled results across the Big 12 and a three-game winning streak to end the season catapulted the Cyclones into the championship contest.</li>
<li>The Cyclones' defense has been dominant all season, allowing the fewest points (19.6 per game) and the fewest passing yards (156.9) in the Big 12.</li>
<li>
<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/58" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/58">Arizona State</a>'s passing attack is subpar. Iowa State should prevent the Sun Devils from moving the ball through the air.</li>
</ul><p><strong>Case for Arizona State</strong></p><ul>
<li>Arizona State rallied off five consecutive wins to earn a championship appearance.</li>
<li>The Sun Devils don't have the passing game to defeat Iowa State, but they dominate the trenches as a run-heavy team on offense and shut down opposing run games on defense.</li>
<li>They have the Big 12's fourth-best rushing attack (195 yards per contest) and allow the second-fewest rushing yards per contest (116).</li>
<li>Iowa State has a proficient pass defense but can't consistently stop the run. It allows the conference's third-most rushing yards per game (173).</li>
</ul><p><strong>Key trends</strong></p><ul>
<li>Arizona State is tied for the best ATS record in the country at 10-2.</li>
<li>Iowa State is 7-5 ATS.</li>
<li>Arizona State is 3-0 ATS against ranked opponents, while Iowa State is 1-0.</li>
<li>The Sun Devils are 7-0 ATS as favorites.</li>
<li>Iowa State is 1-4 ATS at a neutral site under Matt Campbell.</li>
<li>Four of Arizona State's last five games have gone over.</li>
<li>Over 80% of bets and over 90% of the handle (money wagered) is on Arizona State to cover.</li>
</ul><p><strong>Pick: Arizona State -2</strong></p><p>The Big 12 has been so bad this season that despite being considered a power conference, the winner likely won't earn a first-round bye. However, they will earn the No. 12 seed in the College Football Playoff. Arizona State has an advantage at the line of scrimmage on both sides. It should run all over Iowa State en route to a conference championship.</p><h3>No. 5 Georgia vs. No. 2 Texas (-2.5, O/U 49.5)</h3><p>The winner of this contest is in the playoff and will likely be a top-two seed. The loser won't earn a first-round bye but will still be in the dance.</p><p><strong>Case for Georgia </strong></p><ul>
<li>
<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/255" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/255">Georgia</a> avoided a massive upset and a do-or-die situation in the SEC championship when it erased a 17-point deficit and defeated <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/257" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/257">Georgia Tech</a> in an eight-overtime classic last weekend.</li>
<li>We've seen the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/634" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/634">Texas</a>-Georgia matchup before when the Bulldogs dominated the Longhorns on the road in October.</li>
<li>Georgia completely naturalized Texas' offense, leading to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/184393" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/players/184393">Arch Manning</a> briefly replacing Texas quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/166550" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/players/166550">Quinn Ewers</a>.</li>
<li>The Bulldogs' defensive line had an overwhelming advantage against Texas' offensive line, as the Longhorns struggled to establish a run game.</li>
<li>Georgia had seven sacks against Texas.</li>
</ul><p><strong>Case for Texas</strong></p><ul>
<li>While Texas' offense struggled against Georgia, the Longhorns have seen the Bulldogs' game plan.</li>
<li>Georgia hasn't looked like world-beaters since its bout with Texas, losing to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/425" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/425">Ole Miss</a> and barely escaping Georgia Tech.</li>
<li>Quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/148097" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/players/148097">Carson Beck</a>'s inconsistency has hurt Georgia. He threw three interceptions and zero touchdowns against Texas. The Longhorns' offense must do enough to take advantage this time.</li>
</ul><p><strong>Key trends</strong></p><ul>
<li>Georgia is an abysmal 3-9 ATS, while Texas is 7-5.</li>
<li>However, the Longhorns are 3-5 ATS against SEC squads.</li>
<li>Texas is 1-0 ATS at a neutral site, while Georgia is 1-1.</li>
<li>The only time Georgia was an underdog this year was at Texas (four points) and won outright.</li>
<li>Georgia's last three games have gone over the total, but Texas' last three have gone under.</li>
<li>Kirby Smart is 2-4 straight up in the SEC championship game.</li>
<li>Over 70% of the bets and handle are on Texas to cover.</li>
<li>Over 70% of the bets and handle are on the over.</li>
</ul><p><strong>Pick: Georgia +2.5</strong></p><p>Georgia's defensive line left a lasting impression the last time we saw these programs share a field. The Bulldogs' defense has advantages everywhere and is good enough to stifle Ewers and Texas' offense again.</p><h3>No. 3 Penn State vs. No. 1 Oregon (-3.5, O/U 49.5)</h3><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/514" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/514">Oregon</a>'s perfect record is on the line in the Big Ten championship game against <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/521" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/521">Penn State</a>, which jumped <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/507" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/507">Ohio State</a> in the standings and earned a trip to the conference championship after the Buckeyes' embarrassing upset loss to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/407" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/407">Michigan</a>.</p><p><strong>Case for Penn State</strong></p><ul>
<li>Although Oregon's the lone undefeated team in the country, the Ducks' easy schedule doesn't make them overly daunting.</li>
<li>Penn State's offense, particularly its passing game, has been rolling as quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/171465" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/players/171465">Drew Allar</a> plays clean football. He's thrown six touchdowns and no interceptions in the last four contests.</li>
<li>
<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/153194" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/players/153194">Tyler Warren</a>, the nation's best tight end, has been unstoppable in recent weeks. Oregon won't have an answer for him.</li>
</ul><p><strong>Case for Oregon</strong></p><ul>
<li>Oregon has passed every test, including a one-point win over Ohio State in October.</li>
<li>While the Ducks haven't had the toughest schedule, they've mostly annihilated mediocre opponents.</li>
<li>Penn State lost to Ohio State, while Oregon narrowly escaped with a win.</li>
<li>The Ducks have a top-five rushing and passing attack in the Big Ten.</li>
<li>They've held opponents to 16.2 points per game, the conference's fourth-best mark.</li>
</ul><p><strong>Key trends</strong></p><ul>
<li>Oregon and Penn State are both 6-6 ATS, but Oregon is 5-2 ATS in its last seven games.</li>
<li>Oregon is 2-0 ATS against ranked opponents, while Penn State is 0-2.</li>
<li>Six of Oregon's last eight games have gone under the total.</li>
<li>Penn State is 1-6 ATS in its last seven contests as underdogs.</li>
<li>James Franklin's only Big Ten championship appearance came in 2016 when Penn State beat <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/748" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/748">Wisconsin</a> to win the title.</li>
<li>Bettors don't believe in Penn State: 86% of bets and 90% of the handle is on Oregon to cover.</li>
</ul><p><strong>Pick: Penn State +3.5</strong></p><p>Oregon hasn't faced a quality opponent in well over a month. It's hard to know just how good these Ducks truly are. Penn State's offense is clicking, and the spread is as low as it is for a reason, so I'm rolling with the Nittany Lions.</p><h3>No. 17 Clemson vs. No. 8 SMU (-2.5, O/U 55.5)</h3><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/625" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/625">Syracuse</a>'s upset win over <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/405" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/405">Miami</a> last Saturday kicked the Hurricanes out of the ACC championship game and College Football Playoff. It also allowed <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/158" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/158">Clemson</a> an opportunity to punch its ticket to the dance. The winner of this contest automatically heads to the playoff.</p><p><strong>Case for Clemson</strong></p><ul>
<li>This is a matchup of strength versus strength, as Clemson boasts the ACC's best rushing attack and SMU has the top rushing defense.</li>
<li>Clemson will likely have to trust quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/172177" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/players/172177">Cade Klubnik</a> to play a turnover-free game and make plays with his arm. SMU has an average pass defense, while Clemson averages the ACC's fourth-most passing yards (275).</li>
<li>While the Tigers have lost two of their last five, including a rivalry game against <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/573" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/573">South Carolina</a> last week, they've played a tough schedule, while SMU has faced cupcake opponents.</li>
</ul><p><strong>Case for SMU</strong></p><ul>
<li>SMU has the ACC's second-best scoring offense and best scoring defense, holding opponents to fewer than 20 points per game.</li>
<li>However, that's slightly skewed because SMU played a weak schedule, leading to its 11-1 record.</li>
<li>The Mustangs still have the talent to compete with Clemson, which has a very suspect run defense. SMU will win if it establishes the run.</li>
</ul><p><strong>Key Trends</strong></p><ul>
<li>SMU is 8-4 ATS.</li>
<li>Clemson is 5-7 ATS but has covered just one of its last six contests.</li>
<li>Four of Clemson's last five games have gone under the total.</li>
<li>Clemson has only been an underdog once this season - it lost and failed to cover against Georgia in the season opener.</li>
<li>SMU is 6-4 ATS as a favorite.</li>
<li>Almost 80% of bets are on SMU to cover, but only 56% of the handle is on the Mustangs.</li>
</ul><p><strong>Pick: Clemson +2.5</strong></p><p>Clemson's difficult nonconference schedule will be advantageous at a neutral site. SMU had an easy nonconference schedule and a relatively easy ACC schedule. Dabo Swinney has coached in plenty of big games and should have his squad ready. </p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports betting writer at theScore. </em><em>You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more betting coverage.</em></p>

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CFB championship week betting preview: Texas, Georgia compete for SEC title

Every week, Bet or Bail will explore players, teams, storylines, and markets throughout the NBA l...

<p><em>Every week, Bet or Bail will explore players, teams, storylines, and markets throughout the NBA landscape.</em></p><h3>Is it time to bail on LeBron and the Lakers?</h3><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/18" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/18">Lakers</a> head coach JJ Redick has continuously criticized his team's poor effort and focus, but the message isn't resonating. Los Angeles has lost six of its last eight games, four of which have been by more than 20 points. The Lakers have the NBA's fourth-worst defense and are the sixth-worst rebounding team.</p><p>Their woes start with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/72" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/72">LeBron James</a>. Father Time has lost many battles to its toughest competitor, but it may finally be winning the war. James, who turns 40 later in December, is averaging his fewest points since his rookie season and is shooting 49.1% from the field, his worst mark in a decade.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Despite his greatness and remarkable health over his 21-year career, it's unrealistic to expect James to produce at an All-NBA level. The Lakers' poor roster construction means James must play like a superstar, especially as co-star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/11373" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/11373">Anthony Davis</a> snaps in and out of an MVP level depending on the game. However, James isn't one of the league's best players anymore.</p><p>Defensively, the four-time MVP shows little effort and points at his teammates more than he slides over to help or closes out shooters himself. James understandably is trying to conserve his energy at his advanced age, but the six-time All-Defensive team selection is part of the reason offenses feast on the Lakers.</p><p>The team's nonexistent perimeter resistance isn't all James' fault, but Los Angeles' defensive rating is significantly better with James off the court. In fact, the Lakers outscore opponents by 4.3 points per 100 possessions when James is on the bench, but opponents outscore them by 9.2 points per 100 possessions when he's on the floor. This is the first season of James' Hall of Fame career where his team has a worse net rating with him playing.</p><p>The Lakers got off to a 10-4 start this season because of a flourishing offense that relied on Davis as a hub. Los Angeles' defensive struggles go back to the opener, but it posted a top-10 offense early on.</p><p>The offense ran through Davis as Redick implored him to be an aggressive attacker. James was often relegated to an off-ball role to preserve his energy and make Davis the focal point.</p><p>Davis averaged over five drives per game and had a 31.2 usage rate through the first 14 games, scoring 31 points per game. James' usage rate was 26.7 during LA's hot start.</p><p>Over the last five games, Davis' drives per game dipped to 3.2 and usage rate to 23.5, while James' usage rate skyrocketed to 33. Davis averaged 17.4 points during that stretch.</p><p>The Lakers are worse when James has more responsibility. He's still capable of offensive explosions, but he's scored fewer than 20 points in five of his last seven games and has made just one of his last 23 3-point attempts. The Lakers have the league's fifth-worst offense over the past 10 contests.</p><p>They have problems beyond their two stars, which likely can only be resolved with a trade. The skies in Los Angeles won't brighten until Davis regains his early-season form and consistently shows up as the Lakers' best player.</p><p>The purple and gold have covered the spread in just one of their last 10 games.<strong> </strong>They're currently the 9-seed at 12-10 and are -115 to make the playoffs. They're +2800 to win the NBA Finals and +1200 to win a deep West on theScore Bet and ESPN Bet.</p><p>Forget a championship, Los Angeles is in jeopardy of missing the playoffs without an in-season move.</p><h3>Wagner has turned the Magic into contenders</h3><p>After the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/14" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/14">Magic</a> got off to a 3-1 start and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102767" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102767">Paolo Banchero</a> emerged as an MVP candidate, the third-year star suffered an oblique injury. Banchero's diagnosis meant he'd be sidelined for at least four-to-six weeks. The Magic were unsure how to survive his early-season absence and lost their first four games without their All-Star.</p><p>But the Magic are now thriving, winning 13 of their last 15 games and sitting as the 3-seed in the East thanks to their tenacious defense and remarkable performances from fourth-year star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96086" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96086">Franz Wagner</a>.</p><p>Many skeptics emerged after the Magic gave Wagner a five-year extension last offseason. He had shown minimal improvement from Year 2 to 3 and shot just 28% from deep. But Orlando trusted Wagner, and it's paid off. He's averaging a career-high 24.2 points, 5.7 assists, and 5.6 rebounds. Without Banchero, the German forward has more time on the ball and can showcase his playmaking instincts.</p><p>Wagner is the favorite to win the Most Improved Player award (+125). He was +3000 before the season and didn't crack the top 10.</p><p>Most impressively, Wagner hasn't sacrificed efficiency for volume. His 3-point percentage has improved, although still isn't great.</p><p>The question remains whether Wagner can sustain this production when Banchero returns. Banchero and Wagner could become one of the NBA's best young duos if they can take turns as scoring ball-handlers and coexist similarly to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/45455" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/45455">Jaylen Brown</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/52651" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/52651">Jayson Tatum</a>. With the leap Wagner and Banchero have made, Orlando's floor is elevated, and its ceiling is a championship run.</p><p>Like last season, when the Magic made the playoffs for the first time in four years, the NBA's third-best defense has carried them. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96087" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96087">Jalen Suggs</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/11367" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/11367">Kentavious Caldwell-Pope</a> suffocate guards as all five defenders' connectivity and toughness make it challenging for opposing offenses. The Magic's deep bench includes a versatile cast of defenders who can switch on the perimeter and protect the rim, and they have great defensive instincts. The team forces turnovers at the NBA's third-highest rate.</p><p>Orlando was +8000 to win the Finals before the season but has cut that in half to +4000. The Magic have the fifth-best odds to win the East (+1500). That number will only shrink as Banchero nears a return.</p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports betting writer at theScore. </em><em>You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more betting coverage.</em></p>

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NBA Bet or Bail: Lakers downfall, Magic's rise

The most pressing question heading into the penultimate College Football Playoff rankings reveal ...

<p>The most pressing question heading into the penultimate College Football Playoff rankings reveal Tuesday night was who would earn the final spot in the field between <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/40" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/40">Alabama</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/405" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/405">Miami</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/425" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/425">Ole Miss</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/573" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/573">South Carolina</a>. </p><p>After Alabama's Iron Bowl win over <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/67" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/67">Auburn</a> on Saturday night, oddsmakers at theScore Bet and ESPN Bet listed the Crimson Tide at -115 to make the playoff. Bettors pounced, forcing the line to lengthen to -240 before Tuesday's official reveal.</p><p>Alabama's resume - which features a 3-1 record over current top-25 teams, a 6-1 mark against clubs above .500 and a top-20 strength of schedule rank - ultimately gave the Tide the nod over Miami, Ole Miss and South Carolina.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>But Alabama hasn't officially punched its ticket to the dance. Conference championship weekend could shuffle the rankings. Below are the current seeds and rankings. Remember, the seeding is different than the ranking because the five highest-ranked conference champions earn an automatic bid and the top four conference champs earn a top-four seed and a bye.</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Seed</th>
<th>Ranking</th>
<th>Team</th>
<th>Odds to win national title</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>1</td>
<td>1</td>
<td>Oregon</td>
<td>+350</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2</td>
<td>2</td>
<td>Texas</td>
<td>+425</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3</td>
<td>8</td>
<td>SMU</td>
<td>+2500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>4</td>
<td>10</td>
<td>Boise State</td>
<td>+10000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>5</td>
<td>3</td>
<td>Penn State</td>
<td>+1100</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>6</td>
<td>4</td>
<td>Notre Dame</td>
<td>+750</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>7</td>
<td>5</td>
<td>Georgia</td>
<td>+500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>8</td>
<td>7</td>
<td>Tennessee</td>
<td>+1800</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>9</td>
<td>6</td>
<td>Ohio State</td>
<td>+425</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>10</td>
<td>9</td>
<td>Indiana</td>
<td>+4000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>11</td>
<td>11</td>
<td>Alabama</td>
<td>+1400</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>12</td>
<td>15</td>
<td>Arizona State</td>
<td>+7500</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/58" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/58">Arizona State</a> is in if it wins the Big 12 championship Saturday. If it loses to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/307" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/307">Iowa State</a>, the Cyclones are in. The same principle applies to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/99" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/99">Boise State</a>: If <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/671" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/671">UNLV</a> defeats the program in the Mountain West championship this weekend, then UNLV earns a spot.</p><p>Alabama's spot is in flux if <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/584" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/584">SMU</a> loses to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/158" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/158">Clemson</a> in the ACC championship. Clemson would earn the automatic bid and the final at-large bid would come down to Alabama or SMU.</p><h3>Odds to make the CFP</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Team</th>
<th>Yes</th>
<th>No</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Alabama</td>
<td>-390</td>
<td>+270</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>SMU</td>
<td>-500</td>
<td>+340</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Alabama and SMU are both in if the latter defeats Clemson on Saturday, which is why both teams are big favorites to make the playoff. But SMU is only a 2.5-point favorite over Clemson, so it's far from guaranteed.</p><p>But who would the committee favor between Alabama and SMU if Clemson wins? SMU is ranked ahead of Alabama, but would that change if SMU suffers another loss? And would the committee penalize SMU for being forced to play in its conference championship while Alabama doesn't have to play an extra game?</p><p>The Mustangs' implied probability of making the playoffs is 83%, while the Crimson Tide's is 79%. Alabama's significantly harder strength of schedule and higher-quality wins could put them ahead of a two-loss SMU squad. Still, it's hard to know exactly how the committee views a situation like this in the inaugural season of the expanded playoff.</p><p>Committee chairman Warde Manuel responded "potentially, yes" when asked on Tuesday's selection show if SMU could fall below Alabama depending on this weekend's result.</p><p>Alabama will certainly root hard for SMU to defeat Clemson on Saturday so both programs hear their name called on Sunday's selection show.</p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports betting writer at theScore. </em><em>You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more betting coverage.</em></p><div> </div><div> </div>

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College Football Playoff shakeup: Could Alabama be left out?

Saquon Barkley's stellar season has him in the MVP conversation with the second-best odds (+425),...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/99272" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/99272">Saquon Barkley</a>'s stellar season has him in the MVP conversation with the second-best odds (+425), trailing only <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/94699" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/94699">Josh Allen </a>(-225). He's all but locked up the Offensive Player of the Year award (-550) and has helped the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/19" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/teams/19">Eagles</a> win eight straight games, including a road victory Sunday over the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/12" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/teams/12">Ravens</a> as underdogs.</p><p>Barkley, the league leader in rushing yards, has been the catalyst for the Eagles' top-five total offense. Relying on Barkley's explosiveness behind a dominant offensive line has served Philadelphia's offense well during its winning streak.</p><p>The former Giant has rushed for 1,499 yards through 12 games. He's well on his way to becoming the ninth player in NFL history to rush for 2,000 yards. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/72385" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/72385">Derrick Henry</a> was the last player to reach the milestone in 2020. </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>But could Barkley rewrite history and break Eric Dickerson's single-season rushing record of 2,105 yards set in 1984? The 40-year record has been close to being toppled over the last few decades, but no one has dethroned Dickerson. Granted, the NFL added an extra game to the schedule in 2021, so any challengers have an additional opportunity to reach 2,106 yards.</p><p>Barkley is +275 to break the record at ESPN Bet and theScore Bet, giving him a 26% chance of rushing for at least 2,106 yards.</p><p>He's 607 yards away from the record with five games remaining, meaning he must rush for 121.4 yards per contest to reach the storied mark. Barkley is averaging 124 rushing yards per game. The good news is that the Eagles' final five opponents rank in the bottom seven in yards per carry allowed.</p><p>However, Philadelphia has more important goals than individual accolades and awards. Barkley leads the NFL in carries and has assumed a large workload throughout the season. He's on pace to accumulate the most carries of his career. The Eagles need the seven-year veteran to be healthy and productive in the playoffs. The club will likely try to find him rest opportunities and reduce his workload in the final weeks, especially if it's up big against weak opponents. Three of Philly's final five games are against the lowly <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/32" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/teams/32">Panthers</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/17" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/teams/17">Cowboys</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/18" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/teams/18">Giants</a>.</p><p>Although the record is attainable based on Barkley's previous production, oddsmakers believe the superstar rusher will slow down, or the Eagles will take necessary precautions to keep their MVP candidate rested.</p><p>Regardless, Barkley's season has been filled with memorable moments and absurd stat lines. Whether it becomes truly historic will be determined in the final few weeks. </p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports betting writer at theScore. </em><em>You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more betting coverage.</em></p><p> </p><p> </p>

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Will Barkley break Dickerson's single-season rushing record?

There are fewer games than usual Sunday as Thanksgiving Day and Black Friday ate into the weekend...

<p>There are fewer games than usual Sunday as Thanksgiving Day and Black Friday ate into the weekend's contests. But we're still breaking down four exciting Sunday matchups.</p><h3>Sunday 1 p.m. ET</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Game 5" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-KYbbg" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/KYbbg/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="108" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/11" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/teams/11">Steelers</a> are in Cincinnati for a huge AFC North matchup. Pittsburgh is battling for a division title, while the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/9" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/teams/9">Bengals</a> hope to keep their season alive coming off their bye.</p><p><strong>Case for Steelers</strong></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><ul>
<li>After a huge win over the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/12" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/teams/12">Ravens</a>, the Steelers lost to the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/10" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/teams/10">Browns</a> last Thursday. But that was off a short week when Mike Tomlin's teams typically struggle.</li>
<li>Pittsburgh's defense allows the fourth-fewest points per game (16.9).</li>
<li>The Steelers' offense also deserves credit for its progress since <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/12258" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/12258">Russell Wilson</a> became the starter. They're averaging 25.6 points per game over their last five games.</li>
</ul><p><strong>Case for Bengals</strong></p><ul>
<li>The Steelers' defense is much better against the run than the pass, and the Bengals have a pass-heavy operation with one of the NFL's best quarterbacks.</li>
<li>Cincinnati leads the NFL in passing yards. The Steelers won't have an answer for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/97638" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/97638">Joe Burrow</a> and the Bengals' passing game.</li>
</ul><p><strong>Key trends</strong></p><ul>
<li>The Steelers are 8-3 ATS, while the Bengals are 6-5.</li>
<li>Pittsburgh is 57-43-1 ATS after a loss under Tomlin.</li>
<li>The Bengals are 3-3 ATS after a bye under Zac Taylor.</li>
<li>Cincinnati is 1-4 ATS at home.</li>
<li>The Steelers are 4-2 ATS on the road and 2-0 ATS as a road underdog.</li>
</ul><p><strong>Pick: Bengals -3</strong></p><p>The Bengals' season is essentially over with a loss. They're the more desperate group and have a prolific passing attack that the Steelers won't stop.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Game 2" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-RdNJ2" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/RdNJ2/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="108" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>After a week off, the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/29" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/teams/29">Falcons</a> welcome the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/8" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/teams/8">Chargers</a> for a cross-conference battle between two playoff contenders. Atlanta has a one-game lead over the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/31" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/teams/31">Buccaneers</a> in a tight NFC South race. The Chargers will look to bounce back after losing to the Ravens on Monday to keep pace in the AFC wild-card race.</p><p><strong>Case for Chargers</strong></p><ul>
<li>The Chargers allow the fewest points per game (15.9), and the Falcons' offense struggled before its bye week.</li>
<li>Atlanta lost to the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/30" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/teams/30">Saints</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/5" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/teams/5">Broncos</a> while scoring a combined 23 points across both contests.</li>
<li>The Chargers should have extra motivation following a loss and amid a close wild-card battle.</li>
</ul><p><strong>Case for Falcons</strong></p><ul>
<li>The Falcons have a substantial rest advantage coming off their bye, while the Chargers had a grueling battle with the Ravens on Monday night and have to travel across the country.</li>
<li>Atlanta has a top-five passing offense. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/14947" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/14947">Kirk Cousins</a> struggled his last two games but has mostly been accurate this season. Extra rest should benefit the 36-year-old quarterback.</li>
</ul><p><strong>Key trends</strong></p><ul>
<li>The Falcons are 5-6 ATS, while the Chargers are 7-4.</li>
<li>The Chargers are 3-1 as an away favorite.</li>
<li>Atlanta is 0-1 ATS as a home underdog.</li>
<li>Los Angeles is 2-1 ATS after a loss.</li>
</ul><p><strong>Pick: Falcons +1</strong></p><p>The Chargers are a well-coached, tough squad, but this is a challenging spot for them. It's difficult to play on the road on a short week against a well-rested team. Atlanta lost two straight before its bye and will bounce back with a win Sunday.</p><h3>Sunday 4:25 p.m. ET</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Game 11" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-lGlGd" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/lGlGd/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="108" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>Get your popcorn ready. The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/19" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/teams/19">Eagles</a> take on the Ravens in what could be a Super Bowl preview. Both teams boast electrifying offenses led by dynamic quarterbacks and feature Offensive Player of the Year candidates in <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/99272" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/99272">Saquon Barkley</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/72385" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/72385">Derrick Henry</a>. </p><p><strong>Case for Eagles</strong></p><ul>
<li>The Eagles are playing as well as anyone outside of the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/26" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/teams/26">Lions</a>. They've won seven straight and have the league's best rushing attack.</li>
<li>Their defense has been just as good, holding opponents to a league-best 274 yards per game.</li>
<li>Philadelphia consistently dominates teams in the trenches with its elite offensive and defensive lines.</li>
</ul><p><strong>Case for Ravens</strong></p><ul>
<li>The Ravens have a similar offensive style to the Eagles, relying on the NFL's second-best rushing attack to fuel their offense.</li>
<li>Philadelphia hasn't faced a run defense like the Ravens, which holds teams to the second-fewest rushing yards per game.</li>
<li>Like the Eagles, the Ravens have a dangerous quarterback in <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/97162" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/97162">Lamar Jackson</a> who's capable of making plays with his legs and arm.</li>
</ul><p><strong>Key trends</strong></p><ul>
<li>The Eagles are 7-4 ATS but have covered their last three games.</li>
<li>The Ravens are 6-5-1 ATS.</li>
<li>Baltimore has the highest over rate in the NFL, with 10 of its 12 games going over the total.</li>
<li>Philly is 5-1 ATS on the road and 2-0 as a road underdog.</li>
<li>The Eagles are 5-6-1 ATS with a rest advantage under Nick Sirianni.</li>
<li>The Ravens are 31-24-3 ATS with a rest disadvantage under John Harbaugh (Baltimore played Monday night, while Philadelphia played Sunday night).</li>
</ul><p><strong>Pick: Eagles +2.5</strong></p><p>The Eagles are an unstoppable offensive force when Barkley consistently carries the ball behind the NFL's best offensive line. Baltimore has the personnel to limit the run game, but Philadelphia has a capable quarterback in <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/105247" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/105247">Jalen Hurts</a> with elite playmakers on the outside. Plus, the Eagles' young defense is playing lights out.</p><h3>Sunday Night Football</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Game 7" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-jNDq3" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/jNDq3/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="108" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>Week 13's Sunday slate ends with a doozy between the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/23" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/teams/23">49ers</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/1" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/teams/1">Bills</a>. San Francisco is coming off a<em><strong> </strong></em>disastrous road loss against the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/27" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/teams/27">Packers</a>, while the Bills are fresh off their bye week and have the AFC's 1-seed in their sights.</p><p><strong>Case for 49ers</strong></p><ul>
<li>The 49ers are broken physically and mentally. The Super Bowl hangover has hit them with injuries to almost every key offensive position.</li>
<li>
<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/174189" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/174189">Brock Purdy</a> was out last week, and his status for Sunday is uncertain.</li>
<li>San Francisco lost to the Packers 38-10 last week.</li>
<li>However, the 49ers aren't out of the NFC West race. They're 5-6 but still just one game out of first place.</li>
<li>The only real case for the 49ers against one of the league's best teams is for Purdy to return and the team to play with a spark after last week's embarrassing result.</li>
</ul><p><strong>Case for Bills</strong></p><ul>
<li>The Bills have won six straight and are one game back of the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/6" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/teams/6">Chiefs</a> for the AFC's No. 1 seed.</li>
<li>Buffalo's offense is unstoppable with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/94699" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/94699">Josh Allen</a> under center, scoring at least 30 points in five straight games.</li>
<li>Buffalo's rushing attack is also ranked in the top third in the league, helping to relieve some pressure off Allen.</li>
</ul><p><strong>Key trends</strong></p><ul>
<li>The Bills are 7-4 ATS and have covered five of their last six.</li>
<li>The 49ers are 4-7 ATS and have covered just one of their last five.</li>
<li>Buffalo is 4-2-2 ATS off a bye under Sean McDermott and 11-12-2 with a rest advantage.</li>
<li>San Francisco is 15-13-1 with a rest disadvantage under Kyle Shanahan. </li>
</ul><p><strong>Pick: 49ers +6</strong></p><p>This bet is counting on Purdy to play. Even if he doesn't, San Francisco should play with pride and desperation after its beatdown last week. Plus, the 49ers are still very much in the division race. The Bills are as good as any team in the NFL, but a touchdown spread is too many points.</p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/29206835/related

Week 13 betting preview: Can Eagles extend win streak against Ravens?

The expanded 12-team College Football Playoff has created chaos and provided more meaning to late...

<p>The expanded 12-team College Football Playoff has created chaos and provided more meaning to late-season games. There's much to sort out over the next two weeks and many consequential games this weekend. Here, we zero in on three intriguing matchups in the final week of the regular season.</p><h3>Michigan @ No. 2 Ohio State (-19.5, O/U 42.5)</h3><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/407" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/407">Michigan</a>'s poor record diminishes the intrigue this matchup has provided over the last few seasons. However, it's still one of the sport's biggest rivalries. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/507" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/507">Ohio State</a> is seeking revenge after the Wolverines won the last three matchups.</p><p><strong>Case for Michigan</strong></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><ul>
<li>The 6-5 Wolverines will treat Saturday like the biggest game of their season. There's nothing more important than beating Ohio State.</li>
<li>A win won't catapult Michigan from a lowly bowl game into the playoff, but it'd hurt the Buckeyes' resume.</li>
<li>The Wolverines' offense showed some life last week, hanging 50 points on <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/493" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/493">Northwestern</a> thanks to a balanced offense.</li>
</ul><p><strong>Case for Ohio State</strong></p><ul>
<li>Ohio State should be motivated to take advantage of Michigan during a down season after three consecutive years of embarrassment.</li>
<li>The Buckeyes are remarkably more talented than the Wolverines on both sides for the first time in a while.</li>
<li>Ohio State has the Big Ten's second-best scoring offense and best scoring defense, while Michigan is toward the bottom of the conference in both categories.</li>
</ul><p><strong>Key trends</strong></p><ul>
<li>Ryan Day is 1-3 straight up against Michigan.</li>
<li>Ohio State is 6-5 ATS and Michigan is 4-7 ATS.</li>
<li>The Buckeyes are 4-3 ATS at home.</li>
<li>The Wolverines are 1-2 ATS on the road.</li>
<li>Ohio State's spread has received 57% of the bets and 65% of the handle at theScore Bet and ESPN Bet.</li>
<li>Bettors are hammering the over with more than 90% of the handle and bets on the over.</li>
</ul><p><strong>Pick: Ohio State -19.6</strong></p><p>Ohio State is out for revenge after the last few seasons, and the program finally has the upper hand over its rivals with a significantly better roster. The Buckeyes' frustrations over the last few years should come out against Michigan in a resounding home win.</p><h3>No. 15 South Carolina @ No. 12 Clemson (-2.5, O/U 49.5)</h3><p>The winner of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/573" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/573">South Carolina</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/158" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/158">Clemson</a> has a (slight) chance to earn an at-large CFP bid after last weekend's chaos.</p><p><strong>Case for South Carolina</strong></p><ul>
<li>South Carolina fans are clamoring for more playoff consideration after a 5-3 SEC campaign. A win over one of the best ACC teams on the road would help their cause.</li>
<li>The Gamecocks' strength is their defensive line, which has multiple NFL prospects. They wreck opposing offensive lines and allow the SEC's third-fewest rushing yards per game.</li>
<li>Clemson runs the football frequently, so South Carolina will succeed if it limits the Tigers' rushing attack.</li>
</ul><p><strong>Case for Clemson</strong></p><ul>
<li>As previously noted, Clemson's effectiveness in the ground game will decide this contest. The Tigers lead the ACC in rushing yards per game (195).</li>
<li>Clemson averages 469 yards per game, the second most in the ACC.</li>
</ul><p><strong>Key trends</strong></p><ul>
<li>South Carolina is 8-3 ATS and 5-1 in its last six.</li>
<li>Clemson is 5-6 ATS and 1-4 in its last five.</li>
<li>The Gamecocks are 4-0 ATS on the road, while the Tigers are 3-3 ATS at home.</li>
<li>Over 70% of the bets and the handle are on the Gamecocks to keep it within the number.</li>
</ul><p><strong>Pick: South Carolina +2.5</strong></p><p>South Carolina is a tough, physical team that's been through the gauntlet of an SEC schedule. That should help the Gamecocks in their interstate rivalry against a group that's played an easy ACC schedule. South Carolina's defensive line will limit Clemson's run game, leading to a low-scoring win.</p><h3>No. 3 Texas @ No. 20 Texas A&amp;M (-5, O/U 48.5)</h3><p>This game would've had more meaning if <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/67" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/67">Auburn</a> hadn't upset <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/635" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/635">Texas A&amp;M</a> last weekend. Nonetheless, Texas A&amp;M can still make the SEC championship and have a chance at the playoff if it upsets <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/634" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/634">Texas</a>.</p><p><strong>Case for Texas</strong></p><ul>
<li>The Longhorns will be driven to make a statement with a victory over a good opponent this weekend. Texas doesn't own a quality win thanks to an easy SEC schedule.</li>
<li>The Longhorns have a top-three scoring offense and defense in the SEC and a roster full of future NFL players.</li>
<li>Their defense is particularly great at forcing turnovers, leading the conference in interceptions.</li>
</ul><p><strong>Case for Texas A&amp;M</strong></p><ul>
<li>Texas A&amp;M's explosive rushing attack averages the SEC's second-most rushing yards. Texas' defensive strength is stopping the pass, meaning the Aggies could gain momentum on the ground.</li>
<li>Texas A&amp;M should be extra motivated off a loss with its season on the line.</li>
</ul><p><strong>Key trends</strong></p><ul>
<li>Texas A&amp;M is 3-8 ATS despite a solid record straight up.</li>
<li>Texas is 6-5 ATS but 1-4 in its last five games. It's 2-2 ATS on the road.</li>
<li>Texas A&amp;M is 2-5 ATS at home.</li>
<li>The over hit in five of Texas A&amp;M's last six games, but the under hit in six of Texas' last seven games.</li>
<li>Yet bettors are still riding with the over as 90% of the bets are on the game to go over.</li>
<li>Sharp bettors and public bettors are split: 67% of the bets are on Texas to cover, but 85% of the handle is on Texas A&amp;M to cover.</li>
</ul><p><strong>Pick: Texas -5</strong></p><p>Texas A&amp;M's defense has been disastrous. Texas has enough offensive weapons to exploit it. The Aggies have lost their last two games to power conference schools, including a 44-20 loss to South Carolina. This is Texas' chance to punch its ticket to the SEC title game with a quality win.</p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports betting writer at theScore. </em><em>You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more betting coverage.</em></p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/29193873/related

CFB rivalry week betting preview: Can Ohio State get revenge?

What's Thanksgiving Day without football? It's not the prettiest holiday slate, but it's good eno...

<p>What's Thanksgiving Day without football? It's not the prettiest holiday slate, but it's good enough to prop yourself on the couch, fill your stomach with turkey, and bet the board.</p><h3>Game 1 - 12:30 p.m. ET</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Game 9" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-vuDfH" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/vuDfH/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="108" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>As is tradition, the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/26" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/teams/26">Lions</a> will host the first game of the Thanksgiving Day slate when they welcome the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/25" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/teams/25">Bears</a> to Ford Field. Detroit has a firm grasp of the division lead at 10-1, while 4-7 Chicago is fighting to keep its season alive.</p><p><strong>Case for Bears</strong></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><ul>
<li>The Lions have a top-five run defense and a bottom-eight pass defense. Granted, that number is skewed because teams are constantly trailing the Lions and forced to pass.</li>
<li>But there's optimism that <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/199760" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/199760">Caleb Williams</a>, who performed well in a comeback Sunday that ultimately fell short against the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/28" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/teams/28">Vikings</a>, will play a quality game against an exploitable pass defense.</li>
<li>This is a desperate spot for the Bears, who will effectively be out of the wild-card race with a loss.</li>
</ul><p><strong>Case for Lions</strong></p><ul>
<li>Do we ever need to present a case for the Lions? They have the best record in the NFC, the highest-scoring offense, and the best scoring margin.</li>
<li>Their rushing attack is unstoppable and the passing game is equally as prolific. The Lions are first in the NFC North, and the Bears are last.</li>
<li>While Detroit's offense gets the praise, its defense allows the second-fewest points per game (16.6).</li>
</ul><p><strong>Key trends</strong></p><ul>
<li>Detroit is 37-45-2 straight up on Thanksgiving but 8-4 against the spread (ATS) in its past 12 holiday games.</li>
<li>The Bears are 20-15-2 straight up on Thanksgiving.</li>
<li>The Lions have the league's best ATS record at 9-2. They're also 4-1 ATS as a home favorite.</li>
<li>Chicago hasn't covered a spread (0-3-1) as the road team.</li>
<li>
<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/71572" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/71572">Jared Goff</a> and Dan Campbell have never won on Thanksgiving together.</li>
</ul><p><strong>Pick: Bears +10.5</strong></p><p>This is a massive spread for a game between division rivals on a short week. The Lions aren't just beating teams, they're destroying them. Detroit's average margin of victory over its past five games is 23. However, Chicago has a solid defense and a quarterback trending in the right direction. The Bears should keep this within the number.</p><h3>Game 2 - 4:30 p.m. ET</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Game 3 (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-ebufE" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/ebufE/2/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="108" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>If your family's complaining you're watching too much football, this is the three-hour block to spend time with them. This game looked much more appealing before the season. However, the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/18" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/teams/18">Giants</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/17" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/teams/17">Cowboys</a> are having disastrous campaigns, meaning households will be served a <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/188915" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/188915">Tommy DeVito</a>-<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/65598" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/65598">Cooper Rush</a> matchup with their Thanksgiving Day feast.</p><p><strong>Case for Giants</strong></p><ul>
<li>The DeVito portion of the Giants' season has begun. New York (2-9) moved on from <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/97984" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/97984">Daniel Jones</a> last week after six mostly pathetic years.</li>
<li>But things only got worse Sunday in an embarrassing 30-7 home loss to the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/31" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/teams/31">Buccaneers</a>. It's nearly impossible to make a solid case for the Giants to win a game the rest of the season.</li>
<li>New York's only hope is to eliminate a Cowboys passing game led by a backup quarterback. The Giants allow the seventh-fewest passing yards per game, and the Cowboys have a nonexistent rushing attack.</li>
</ul><p><strong>Case for Cowboys</strong></p><ul>
<li>Rush is a competent backup QB. He's 6-3 as a starter and has thrown for more than 600 yards the past two weeks.</li>
<li>Despite the statistics and final scores, Dallas' defense is still solid with linebacker <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/161667" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/161667">Micah Parsons</a>, whose two sacks and eight tackles helped the Cowboys (4-7) upset the Commanders last week.</li>
<li>The Giants have the league's worst scoring offense.</li>
</ul><p><strong>Key trends</strong></p><ul>
<li>The Cowboys are 33-22-1 on Thanksgiving.</li>
<li>Both groups have two of the worst ATS records in the league at 3-8 apiece. </li>
<li>Dallas hasn't won a home game this season (0-5) and has failed to cover in all five.</li>
<li>The Giants are 2-2 ATS as an away underdog.</li>
<li>The Cowboys are 1-4 ATS in their past five Thanksgiving Day games.</li>
</ul><p><strong>Pick: Cowboys -4</strong></p><p>The Giants are a lifeless football team and DeVito's magic might have run out after last season. The Cowboys showed signs of life in a thrilling win over Washington. Dallas has an advantage at almost every positional group, while the Giants have quit on their season.</p><h3>Game 3 - 8:20 p.m. ET</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Game 6" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-PSBH3" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/PSBH3/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="108" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/2" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/teams/2">Dolphins</a> travel north to Green Bay for a date with the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/27" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/teams/27">Packers</a> to close out the holiday slate. Miami is trying to climb back into the AFC wild-card picture while Green Bay heats up.</p><p><strong>Case for Dolphins</strong></p><ul>
<li>The Dolphins have won three in a row and look like a <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/114411" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/114411">Tua Tagovailoa</a>-led offense again. They're averaging 29 points over their past five contests since Tagovailoa returned from a concussion.</li>
<li>Miami is 5-6 and still in the playoff hunt, meaning every game is crucial for the rest of the season.</li>
<li>As the Dolphins' offense regains form, their defense has been solid, ranking sixth in yards allowed.</li>
</ul><p><strong>Case for Packers</strong></p><ul>
<li>The Packers (8-3) have won six of their past seven and are fresh off a 38-10 beatdown of the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/23" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/teams/23">49ers</a>. Their only loss during that span was to the 10-1 Lions.</li>
<li>
<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/104659" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/104659">Jordan Love</a>'s been inconsistent, but Green Bay's offense relies on the league's third-best rushing attack to move the ball. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/110848" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/110848">Josh Jacobs</a> is third in the NFL in rushing yards.</li>
</ul><p><strong>Key trends</strong></p><ul>
<li>The Packers are 15-20-2 on Thanksgiving.</li>
<li>Miami and Green Bay are both 5-6 ATS, but the Dolphins have covered four straight. The Packers covered one of their past five games.</li>
<li>The Dolphins are 3-0 ATS in all three of their Thanksgiving games this century.</li>
<li>Tagovailoa is 4-9 ATS in prime-time night games.</li>
</ul><p><strong>Pick: Dolphins +3</strong></p><p>It's hard to ignore how dominant the Dolphins' offense has been since Tagovailoa returned. The Packers are playing their best football lately, but Miami is desperate. Its playoff hopes are likely over if it suffers another loss.</p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports betting writer at theScore. </em><em>You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more betting coverage.</em></p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/29183128/related

Thanksgiving betting preview: Can Lions keep win streak alive vs. Bears?

Saquon Barkley entered Sunday as a +6000 long shot to win MVP, tied with or behind 14 players. Th...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/99272" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/99272">Saquon Barkley</a> entered Sunday as a +6000 long shot to win MVP, tied with or behind 14 players. The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/19" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/teams/19">Eagles</a> star soared up the oddsboard following a historic Sunday Night Football performance.</p><p>Barkley became the ninth player in NFL history to rush for at least 255 yards in a game. He also totaled over 300 scrimmage yards and two touchdowns. Barkley now has the fourth-best odds to win MVP at +600 on theScore Bet and ESPN Bet behind <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/94699" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/94699">Josh Allen</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/97162" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/97162">Lamar Jackson</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/71572" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/71572">Jared Goff</a>.</p><p>The former Giant leads the NFL in total carries and rushing yards and is tied for fourth in rushing touchdowns. He's rushed for at least 100 yards in seven of the Eagles' 11 games this season.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Barkley's career-best campaign has also helped Philadelphia get off to a 9-2 start, win seven straight games, and build a substantial lead in the NFC East. The Eagles now have the second-best odds to win the NFC (+275) behind the 10-1 Lions (+130) and the fifth-best odds to win the Super Bowl (+650).</p><p>Barkley is the runaway favorite to win Offensive Player of the Year (-325), with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/72385" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/72385">Derrick Henry</a> trailing at +350. But MVP has become a quarterback honor as running backs are valued less.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/1309" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/1309">Adrian Peterson</a> was the last running back to win MVP in 2012. Peterson, LaDainian Tomlinson in 2006, Shaun Alexander in 2005, and Marshall Faulk in 2000 are the only running backs to win MVP this century. However, Barkley's value to the Eagles is insurmountable.</p><p>The tailback has rushed for 1,392 yards through 12 weeks, putting him on pace to surpass Eric Dickerson's 1984 single-season rushing record of 2,105. Records are skewed because the NFL added a 17th game in 2021, but just eight players in NFL history have rushed for over 2,000 yards in a campaign. Four of them have won MVP.</p><p>Voters can't ignore that Barkley is firmly in the MVP conversation, even if they're reluctant to gift a running back the award.</p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports betting writer at theScore. </em><em>You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more betting coverage.</em></p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/29171224/related

Barkley enters MVP race following historic SNF showing

We already previewed Notre Dame vs. Army, but there are more high-stakes games this weekend that'...

<p>We already previewed <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3133449" href="https://thescore.com/news/3133449">Notre Dame vs. Army</a>, but there are more high-stakes games this weekend that'll surely impact the playoff picture. Let's dive in.</p><h3>No. 5 Indiana @ No. 2 Ohio State (-11, O/U 52.5)</h3><p>Although this game is being billed as a massive one for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/303" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/303">Indiana</a>, it's actually not - sorry to be the bearer of bad news. ESPN's playoff predictor gives Indiana a 99% chance of making the playoff if it beats <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/507" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/507">Ohio State</a>. If it loses? Well, those chances drop<em> all the way</em> to 95%. Whether that's fair or not is a conversation for another day. This is a good test for Indiana but unless it gets demolished, the Hoosiers are going dancing.</p><p><strong>Case for Indiana</strong></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><ul>
<li>Indiana is one of three remaining undefeated teams (10-0). It has the highest-scoring offense (43.9 points per game) and third-best scoring defense (13.8 points per game).</li>
<li>Hoosiers quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/138530" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/players/138530">Kurtis Rourke</a> has been incredible, tossing over 2,400 yards and 21 touchdowns to four interceptions.</li>
<li>However, Indiana's benefited from the easiest strength of schedule among all Big Ten and SEC teams.</li>
</ul><p><strong>Case for Ohio State</strong></p><ul>
<li>While Indiana's offense has impressed, it hasn't faced a defense anywhere near as ferocious as Ohio State, which allows the fewest points (10.3) and yards per game (250) in the Big Ten.</li>
<li>Ohio State's offense has been inconsistent, and losing center Seth McLaughlin for the season isn't ideal. However, the Buckeyes still have the Big Ten's second-highest scoring offense (37.8 points per game).</li>
<li>The Hoosiers' defensive line stops opposing rushing attacks, but isn't as strong guarding weapons on the outside.</li>
<li>QB <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/148298" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/players/148298">Will Howard</a> and his explosive playmakers will make life difficult for Indiana's defense.</li>
</ul><p><strong>Key trends</strong></p><ul>
<li>Indiana is 8-2 ATS while Ohio State's 5-5.</li>
<li>Ohio State is 22-14-1 ATS at home under Ryan Day.</li>
<li>Indiana is off to its best start in program history but ranks outside the top 100 in strength of schedule.</li>
<li>Bettors trust the Hoosiers despite their leisurely schedule: 65% of bets and 72% of handle (money wagered) are on Indiana to keep it within the spread.</li>
</ul><p><strong>Best bet - Ohio State -11</strong></p><p>Indiana hasn't proved it can compete with any decent team. Despite the magical run, it's hard to back the Hoosiers against one of the nation's most talented groups. Indiana is in the playoff win or lose, so it's not a desperation spot.</p><h3>No. 16 Colorado @ Kansas (+3, O/U 59.5)</h3><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/328" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/328">Kansas</a>' (4-6) only purpose left this season is to play spoiler to its Big 12 foes, like when it upset undefeated <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/107" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/107">BYU</a> last week. Its next opportunity is at home against <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/164" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/164">Colorado</a>, which is searching for a Big 12 championship and College Football Playoff appearance.</p><p><strong>Case for Colorado</strong></p><ul>
<li>Colorado's won four straight and seven of its last eight.</li>
<li>The offense has averaged 39.5 points over the last four games, led by projected first-round pick <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/160938" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/players/160938">Shedeur Sanders</a>.</li>
<li>The Buffaloes' once-maligned defense has been almost as impressive, limiting opponents to 22.7 points per game.</li>
</ul><p><strong>Case for Kansas</strong></p><ul>
<li>Kansas' defense, which held BYU to 13 points, carried it to an upset over the Cougars. But the Jayhawks' rushing attack has sparked its late-season resurgence.</li>
<li>The Jayhawks average 200 rushing yards per game, the Big 12's third-best mark. </li>
<li>The key for Kansas is controlling the clock by effectively running the ball, ensuring Colorado's offense earns limited possessions.</li>
</ul><p><strong>Key trends</strong></p><ul>
<li>Colorado is a perfect 7-0 ATS against Big 12 opponents. </li>
<li>The Buffs are 4-1 ATS in away games.</li>
<li>Kansas covered its last four games and is 3-0 ATS against ranked teams.</li>
<li>Colorado's spread has slightly more bets but Kansas' spread has almost 60% of the money.</li>
<li>Almost 100% of the money and slightly under 90% of bets are on the over.</li>
</ul><p><strong>Best bet - Kansas +3</strong></p><p>The Big 12 is a lousy but chaotic conference. Kansas played spoiler last week and will assume the role again by relentlessly running the ball.</p><h3>No. 14 BYU @ No. 21 Arizona State (-3, O/U 48.5)</h3><p>There are massive playoff implications in this matchup between two Big 12 teams picked to finish toward the bottom of the conference in preseason polls.</p><p><strong>Case for BYU</strong></p><ul>
<li>BYU was 9-0 and firmly in the playoff picture before it lost to Kansas last weekend. Now it must run the table and win the Big 12 to earn a bid. </li>
<li>The Cougars have the Big 12's best total defense and second-best scoring defense.</li>
<li>
<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/58" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/58">Arizona State</a>'s mediocre passing offense will struggle against BYU. The Sun Devils average under 400 yards per game, the Big 12's 10th-best offense.</li>
</ul><p><strong>Case for Arizona State</strong></p><ul>
<li>While BYU's defense has been lights out, its offense struggles to produce. It hasn't scored more than 24 points in its last two outings.</li>
<li>Arizona State's rushing defense is one of the conference's best. The key for the Sun Devils will be to keep the game low scoring. They'll win if they can limit BYU's explosive plays while breaking free for a couple of their own.</li>
</ul><p><strong>Key trends</strong></p><ul>
<li>Both groups have been great against the number: Arizona State is 8-2 ATS and BYU is 7-3.</li>
<li>BYU is 4-0 ATS as an underdog and 3-0 as a road underdog. </li>
<li>Arizona State is 5-0 ATS at home and 4-0 as a home favorite.</li>
<li>Almost 70% of the bets and 74% of the handle is on Arizona State to cover as a favorite.</li>
</ul><p><strong>Best bet - BYU +3</strong></p><p>BYU suffered a heartbreaking loss last weekend, but its season is far from over. This is a desperate spot for the Cougars, who've proved their defense can travel.</p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports betting writer at theScore. </em><em>You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more betting coverage.</em></p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/29117931/related

CFB Week 12 betting preview: Can Indiana keep it close against Ohio State?

<p><em>Every week, Bet or Bail will explore players, teams, storylines, and markets throughout the NBA landscape.</em></p><h3>McCain, Knecht leading ROY race</h3><p>The first few weeks of the season prove that nobody - not even front-office executives and expert scouts - is immune to oversight when evaluating and drafting prospects. Even in a draft labeled the worst in modern NBA history, the two most impressive rookies slipped out of the lottery.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/121672" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/121672">Jared McCain</a> fell to the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/4" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/4">Sixers</a> at No. 16, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/121679" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/121679">Dalton Knecht</a> dropped to the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/18" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/18">Lakers</a> at No. 17. There were obvious concerns - McCain's size and Knecht's age - but neither were unheralded prospects who slipped through the cracks. Knecht and McCain were college stars for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/630" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/630">Tennessee</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/202" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/202">Duke</a>, respectively.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>How did these guys tumble in a weak draft class? Well, front office personnel must answer to their owners after the two rookies made certain organizations look like fools.</p><p>McCain is the Rookie of the Year favorite (+130) after entering the season way down the board at +3000.</p><p>While the Sixers deal with more dramatic episodes than a reality TV show, McCain has benefitted from the chaos. He's earned opportunities in <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93855" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93855">Tyrese Maxey</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/1889" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/1889">Paul George</a>'s absence, and to say he's made the most of it would be an understatement. He leads all rookies in points (15.6 per game) while shooting over 40% from three.</p><p>The Duke product understands the nuances of the game - relocating as a shooter, passing angles, playmaking chops - at a far greater level than most 20-year-old rookies. He has the most points by a rookie in his first four starts in NBA history, passing Sixer alum Allen Iverson.</p><p>Sixers head coach Nick Nurse has no choice but to give him extended minutes even as the team gets healthier at guard. McCain earned the start alongside Maxey, George, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/31932" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/31932">Joel Embiid</a> in the Big Three's debut Wednesday night.</p><p>Philadelphia has the NBA's worst record at 2-12. This franchise with a perpetual dark cloud hanging over it doesn't have many signs of optimism, but McCain has been the lone bright spot and a potential future building block in an otherwise harrowing season.</p><p>On the other coast, another overlooked rookie is shining with an increased role. Knecht played sporadically in the first two weeks and barely produced in the scoring column. He was +2500 to win Rookie of the Year in mid-November after starting the season at +1400. But JJ Redick entrusted his rookie sniper by inserting him into the starting lineup.</p><p>The Tennessee product is averaging 23.8 points in the four games since, and he's shooting 46% from three on the season. Knecht's career-high 37-point outing Tuesday night led to the sharpshooter skyrocketing up the Rookie of the Year ladder. He now has the second-best odds at +215.</p><p>McCain has better on-ball playmaking skills than Knecht, but the latter is a more prolific shooter. However, the Sixers guard is shooting 44% on catch-and-shoot attempts. Opportunity is everything in a Rookie of the Year race as open as this one, and Knecht and McCain have earned theirs.</p><h3>Bet on Jokic's MVP candidacy, Bail on the Nuggets</h3><p>The best way to define someone's value is to see how a system operates when that person is absent. The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/26" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/26">Nuggets</a> won five in a row before <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37604" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37604">Nikola Jokic</a> left the team for personal reasons. Since then, they've lost two of their past three.</p><p>Furthermore, the Nuggets outscore opponents by 11.3 points per 100 possessions when Jokic is on the floor. Opponents outscore Denver by 14.9 points per 100 possessions when he's off the court, per NBA advanced stats. In simpler terms, the Nuggets are the league's second-best team with Jokic (based on net rating) and the NBA's worst team without him. Jokic leads the league in player impact estimate.</p><p>Of course, the MVP award is not gifted solely on a player's value. Otherwise, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/72" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/72">LeBron James</a> would have a house full of them. Narrative, counting stats, and team success are weighed in voters' decisions.</p><p>Jokic, who has won three of the past four MVPs, had only the third-best odds (+460) entering this season despite his undeniable status as the league's best player. Voter fatigue likely seemed to interfere with his chances of winning.</p><p>But he's averaging career-highs in points (29.7), rebounds (13.7), assists (11.7), and 3-point percentage (56%). He's currently the favorite to win MVP at +220. Jokic's impact is too obvious that he might overcome voters' reluctance to give him his fourth trophy (James was the last player to win four in five years from 2009 to 2013).</p><p>In all that lies the Nuggets' problem: Jokic has to do too much. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/44995" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/44995">Jamal Murray</a>, Jokic's co-star during their 2023 Finals run, has seemingly fallen off a cliff. He's having the worst statistical season of his career and isn't a reliable second option.</p><p>Denver let two key pieces from its championship team walk in free agency - <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/52805" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/52805">Bruce Brown</a> in 2023 and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/11367" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/11367">Kentavious Caldwell-Pope</a> last summer. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102793" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102793">Christian Braun</a> is having a career season, but the Nuggets don't have enough talent surrounding Jokic. They average the third-fewest bench points and attempt the third-fewest threes. Adding <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/347" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/347">Russell Westbrook</a> - a career 30% 3-point shooter - didn't exactly solve their shooting woes.</p><p>The Nuggets are 8-5 and have the third-best odds to win the West. Jokic, averaging 14 more touches per game than any other season, can carry them to a top seed - and win the MVP in the process - but the Nuggets won't return to the Finals without reliable parts around him.</p><h3>Don't bail on the East yet</h3><p>An NBA civil war is brewing between the East and the West. A recent<a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/insider/story/_/id/42529811/nba-intel-early-trade-predictions-knecht-3s-east-vs-west"> ESPN report</a> outlined a possible battle for secession among certain West teams to break free to the easier Eastern Conference when NBA expansion arrives.</p><p>The West is 41-22 against the East. Only four East teams are above .500 and the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/13" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/13">Heat</a>, who are in fifth place at 6-7, would be 13th in the West.</p><p>The West has been the deeper conference for years. The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/22" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/22">Rockets</a> finished 11th at 41-41 last season, the best record by an No. 11 seed in NBA history.</p><p>But there's reason to be optimistic about the East's outlook. No, they won't be as deep as the West anytime soon, but the East's overall record should improve as teams get healthier.</p><p>For starters, the defending champion <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/1" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/1">Celtics</a> still reside in the East and are the favorites to repeat. The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/7" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/7">Cavaliers</a>' leap has made them legit contenders after becoming the fourth team in NBA history to start 15-0. The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/3" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/3">Knicks</a> started slow but have won four straight to get over .500 and will only improve defensively once <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/62053" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/62053">Mitchell Robinson</a> returns. The Magic have weathered the storm without<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102767" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102767"> Paolo Banchero</a>, winning seven of their past eight thanks to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96086" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96086">Franz Wagner</a>'s emergence. Orlando could be a real contender when Banchero returns.</p><p>As for the bottom of the conference, it's hard to imagine the Sixers, who have the NBA's worst record, getting any worse. They're still -220 to make the playoffs for some reason and should soar up the standings in the coming months once they're healthy and their stars accumulate reps together.</p><p>The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/10" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/10">Bucks</a> are 6-9 but have won four of their past five after an abysmal start, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/4789" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/4789">Khris Middleton</a> should make his season debut soon. The Pacers should also improve after a rocky start. While Western Conference teams envy their conference counterparts, don't count out the East as a formidable conference just yet.</p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports betting writer at theScore. </em><em>You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more betting coverage.</em></p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/29128787/related

NBA Bet or Bail: Rookie of the Year race, Jokic MVP case

Notre Dame and Army have a lot at stake for this Saturday's marquee matchup at Yankee Stadium.  N...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/501" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/501">Notre Dame</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/64" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/64">Army</a> have a lot at stake for this Saturday's marquee matchup at Yankee Stadium.</p><p>Notre Dame must win its remaining two games to secure its spot in the College Football Playoff. Meanwhile, Army hasn't received much playoff consideration despite its best start in decades. A win over Notre Dame would propel the Black Knights into the conversation for an automatic bid as the highest-ranked Group of 5 champions.</p><h3>No. 24 Army vs. No. 8 Notre Dame (-14.5, O/U 44.5)</h3><p><strong>Case for Army</strong></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><ul>
<li>Army is having a historic 9-0 season, but it hasn't seen an opponent nearly as talented as Notre Dame.</li>
<li>However, Army leads the nation in total rushing yards by a sizable margin.</li>
<li>The Black Knights must dominate Notre Dame's defensive line and effectively control the clock. It'll be a long night in the Bronx if they can't limit Notre Dame's possessions.</li>
</ul><p><strong>Case for Notre Dame</strong></p><ul>
<li>Notre Dame has decimated opponents since an embarrassing upset loss to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/488" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/488">Northern Illinois</a> in Week 2, winning its last eight games by an average of 32.5 points.</li>
<li>
<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/163464" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/players/163464">Riley Leonard</a> has been steady after a shaky start. He's thrown for over 200 yards in four of his last five games while totaling 24 total touchdowns and only two interceptions in Notre Dame's last eight wins.</li>
<li>Army allows the third-fewest rushing yards per game, but its pass defense falls behind. Notre Dame also has an elite rushing attack.</li>
<li>The Black Knights haven't faced a top-50 defense or top-75 offense thanks to arguably the nation's easiest schedule.</li>
<li>The Fighting Irish will earn a trip to the playoffs if they beat Army this Saturday and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/676" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/676">USC</a> next Saturday.</li>
</ul><p><strong>Key trends</strong></p><ul>
<li>Army is 7-1-1 ATS, the best ATS win percentage in the country.</li>
<li>Notre Dame is 7-2-1 ATS and has covered five straight.</li>
<li>Army is an underdog for the first time this season.</li>
<li>Notre Dame is 2-0-1 ATS versus ranked opponents.</li>
<li>The Fighting Irish are 6-1 ATS at a neutral site under Marcus Freeman.</li>
<li>Army is 14-6 ATS at a neutral site under Jeff Monken.</li>
<li>Notre Dame has received 59% of the bets and 54% of the handle.</li>
<li>Over 70% of the bets and handle are on the over.</li>
</ul><p><strong>Best bet - Notre Dame -14.5</strong></p><p>The line indicates Army isn't a serious undefeated team. But Notre Dame has failed to cover large spreads before, even losing outright as a 28.5-point favorite this season.</p><p>However, Notre Dame is playing its best ball in November, and all its goals are in front of it. The Fighting Irish have the defensive front to stymie Army's run game. The Black Knights' offense won't keep up with the Fighting Irish, who should cover the two-touchdown spread.</p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports betting writer at theScore. </em><em>You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more betting coverage.</em></p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/29116068/related

Can undefeated Army keep dream season alive vs. Notre Dame?

The College Football Playoff picture is taking shape with just two weeks left in the regular seas...

<p>The College Football Playoff picture is taking shape with just two weeks left in the regular season. Other than the automatic conference champion qualifiers and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/501" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/501">Notre Dame's</a> likely appearance as an independent school, most of the 12-team field will feature SEC and Big Ten teams. But how many?</p><p>Oddsmakers at theScore Bet and ESPN Bet assigned the over/under for SEC teams in the dance at 4.5 (+300 to the over and -500 to the under).</p><p>Here are the programs under consideration:</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Team</th>
<th>Odds to make playoff</th>
<th>Remaining schedule</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>No. 3. Texas</td>
<td>-1400</td>
<td> vs. Kentucky; @ Texas A&amp;M</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>No. 7 Alabama</td>
<td>-750</td>
<td> @ Oklahoma; vs. Auburn</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>No. 9 Ole Miss</td>
<td>-400</td>
<td> @ Florida; vs. Mississippi State</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>No. 10 Georgia</td>
<td>-3500</td>
<td> vs. UMass; vs. Georgia Tech</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>First team out: Tennessee</td>
<td>-135</td>
<td> vs. UTEP; @ Vanderbilt</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Third team out: Texas A&amp;M</td>
<td>+450</td>
<td> @ Auburn; vs. Texas</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>It's clear the CFP selection committee doesn't value strength of schedule as much as many believe it should. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/634" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/634">Texas</a> is the highest-ranked SEC team despite all of its conference wins coming against five of the bottom seven teams in the standings. The Longhorns were dominated by <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/255" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/255">Georgia</a> in their only game against quality competition.</p><p>Texas can make a statement in its final regular-season game against No. 15 <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/635" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/635">Texas A&amp;M</a>. A loss could see the Longhorns slip out of the playoff picture entirely, but a win would guarantee their spot and book them a trip to the SEC championship. Texas A&amp;M, currently among the first four out, would force the committee to consider its entry with a win.</p><p>Georgia is undervalued. The Bulldogs have had the hardest schedule in the country, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/college-football/fpi/_/view/resume/sort/resume.avgsosrank/dir/asc">ESPN</a>'s College Football Power Index, their only two losses have come to top-10 teams (<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/40" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/40">Alabama</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/425" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/425">Ole Miss</a>), and they have wins against three top-15 teams, including Texas and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/630" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/630">Tennessee</a>.</p><p>Ole Miss and Alabama also have two losses but beat the Bulldogs earlier this season, so they're ahead of them in the ranking. But Georgia is seven slots below a Texas team it beat on the road. Make it make sense.</p><p>Tennessee is ranked 11th but is currently out of the picture because projected conference champions <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/99" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/99">Boise State</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/107" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/107">BYU</a> would earn automatic bids and leap the Volunteers.</p><p>There's also the possibility that a two-loss SEC team earns a trip to the SEC championship and suffers its third loss, which could hurt its ranking. It remains to be seen if the committee will penalize teams for being forced to play an extra game because it was atop the standings. </p><p>Regardless, the SEC will have a minimum of four teams. How the committee views fringe SEC teams against their Big Ten counterparts will determine if they earn a fifth squad. These are how the Big Ten contenders currently rank: </p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Team</th>
<th>Odds to make playoff</th>
<th>Remaining schedule</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>1. Oregon</td>
<td>N/A</td>
<td> vs. Washington</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2. Ohio State</td>
<td>-8000</td>
<td>vs. Indiana; vs. Michigan</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>4. Penn State</td>
<td>-900</td>
<td>@ Minnesota; vs. Maryland</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>5. Indiana</td>
<td>-350</td>
<td>@ Ohio State; vs. Purdue</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Only four Big Ten teams are in consideration. Although they're all ranked in the top five, only the conference champ will earn a top-four seed and first-round bye.</p><p>Oddsmakers at theScore Bet and ESPN Bet assigned the over/under for Big Ten teams at 3.5 (-400 to the over and +250 to the under).</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/303" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/303">Indiana</a> has shocked the nation with a 10-0 start in Curt Cignetti's first season. However, the Hoosiers have had the easiest schedule among all 34 SEC and Big Ten programs.</p><p>But does the committee care? Seemingly no. Indiana is ranked ahead of all but one SEC school. Even if (when) Indiana loses to Ohio State this weekend, it shouldn't impact the Hoosiers' standing. Granted, that could change if Indiana gets annihilated.</p><p>The final slot will presumably be between a one-loss Indiana squad and a two-loss SEC school like Tennessee. The Volunteers lost to Georgia and Arkansas but have a top-20 strength of schedule, and their best win was over a top-10 Alabama team. Indiana's best win was against a .500 <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/407" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/407">Michigan</a> group.</p><p>The Hoosiers' resume shouldn't meet the necessary qualifications, but the committee's arbitrary criteria will sneak it in, likely giving the SEC and Big Ten four teams each.</p><p>However, the games must be played, and chaos could ensue in the next three weeks before the official playoff bracket is revealed.</p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports betting writer at theScore. </em><em>You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more betting coverage.</em></p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/29107244/related

How many SEC, Big Ten teams will make the College Football Playoff?

After an interception Saturday against Utah, Travis Hunter flashed the Heisman pose as an emblem ...

<p>After an interception Saturday against <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/677" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/677">Utah</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/179519" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/players/179519">Travis Hunter </a>flashed the Heisman pose as an emblem of the iconic trophy awarded to the nation's most outstanding college football player.</p><p>Hunter entered the Utah matchup as the Heisman favorite and strengthened his position with another impressive showing. Once considered a long shot to win, the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/164" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/164">Colorado</a> wide receiver and cornerback's history-making season has grabbed the country's attention.</p><p>It's unprecedented for players to play full snap counts on offense and defense, but the projected first-round pick is elite as a pass catcher and a defensive back.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Oddsmakers assigned Hunter a 1% chance of winning the Heisman in the preseason. It's up to 80% with just two regular-season games remaining. Here's how Hunter's odds have fluctuated throughout the campaign:</p><h3>Travis Hunter's Heisman odds</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Week</th>
<th>Odds</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Preseason</td>
<td>+6000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Week 1</td>
<td>+2200</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Week 2</td>
<td>+6000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Week 3</td>
<td>+3000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Week 4</td>
<td>+1600</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Week 5</td>
<td>+700</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Week 6 (CU's bye)</td>
<td>+700</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Week 7</td>
<td>+325</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Week 8</td>
<td>+600</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Week 9</td>
<td>+2000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Week 10</td>
<td>+200</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Week 11</td>
<td>+225</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Week 12</td>
<td>+100</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Now</td>
<td>-400</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Part of the hesitancy surrounding Hunter's Heisman bid was that Colorado wouldn't win enough games. The Heisman isn't always awarded to a playoff-caliber team, but it typically goes to a player suiting up for a top program.</p><p>Colorado's preseason win total was 5.5, and legitimate questions surrounded the Buffaloes after a shaky 1-1 start. They've won seven of their past eight since and will clinch a spot in the Big 12 title game if they win their final two contests. Colorado is currently the favorite to win the Big 12 (-115), which would grant it an automatic bid to the College Football Playoff.</p><p>It's also rare for a non-quarterback to win. Only four non-quarterbacks have won the Heisman this century, and three were running backs. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/161668" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/161668">DeVonta Smith</a> in 2020 is the only wideout to earn the honor. Charles Woodson in 1997 is the only defensive player to win.</p><p>Hunter's campaign as a multi-positional athlete makes his case unique. Plus, it helps that quarterbacks have had a down year, and 2025 is projected to be one of the worst quarterback draft classes in recent NFL history.</p><h3>Heisman Trophy odds</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Player</th>
<th>Odds</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Travis Hunter</td>
<td>-400</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ashton Jeanty</td>
<td>+375</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Cam Ward</td>
<td>+1200</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dillon Gabriel</td>
<td>+2500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jalen Milroe</td>
<td>+2500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kurtis Rourke</td>
<td>+2500</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/405" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/405">Miami</a> quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/247" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/247">Cam Ward</a> was the favorite a few weeks ago, but the Hurricanes' 23-point output in an upset loss to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/257" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/257">Georgia Tech</a> ended their undefeated season and Ward's Heisman hopes.</p><p>The only other quarterback in contention is <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/514" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/514">Oregon</a>'s <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/138036" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/players/138036">Dillon Gabriel</a>, who is one win away from an undefeated regular season. A Big Ten championship against <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/507" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/507">Ohio State</a> is the Ducks' only remaining marquee game before the Heisman is decided. Gabriel hasn't produced remarkable statistical outputs and has benefitted from a loaded roster. However, he could cover some ground if he shines against the Buckeyes again and leads the Ducks to a Big Ten title.</p><p>The closest challenger to Hunter is <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/99" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/99">Boise State</a> running back <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/172507" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/players/172507">Ashton Jeanty</a>, the favorite earlier this season when he was on pace to break Barry Sanders' single-season rushing record.</p><p>Jeanty is still 735 rushing yards shy of Sanders' record. While that mark seems unlikely, Jeanty could catch <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/54651" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/54651">Melvin Gordon</a> for the second-most rushing yards in a season. He's 694 yards short of Gordon and should play in a Mountain West title game, but Jeanty's Heisman momentum has slowed down. It doesn't help Jeanty's case that his fiercest competitor has Colorado head coach Deion Sanders' marketing machine at his disposal.</p><p>Assuming Hunter stays healthy and Colorado keeps winning, he won't just mimic the Heisman symbol, he'll raise the trophy in December.</p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports betting writer at theScore. </em><em>You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more betting coverage.</em></p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/29096129/related

Heisman watch: Is Hunter running away with the award?

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<figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Game 15" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-I0p7A" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/I0p7A/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="108" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>Unfortunately, NFL fans must continue to watch the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/17" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/teams/17">Cowboys</a> in prime time. Even during a disastrous season in which <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/50470" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/50470">Dak Prescott</a> has been ruled out for the remainder of the year, Dallas still draws huge audiences.</p><p>The Cowboys are already looking ahead to next season as <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/65598" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/65598">Cooper Rush</a> remains their signal-caller for the rest of this campaign. Dallas won't successfully move the ball against the NFL's third-best passing defense, which only allows 174 passing yards per game. So Dallas will rely on its ground game, right? Well, the Cowboys have the league's second-worst rushing attack. They won't score enough to win.</p><p>The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/13" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/teams/13">Texans</a> are dealing with their own struggles, as well as injuries to key offensive pieces, after losing two straight to the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/4" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/teams/4">Jets</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/26" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/teams/26">Lions</a>. Houston still has a significant lead in the lousy AFC South. There's no need to panic, but the Texans must find their footing against the Cowboys in prime time if they want to be a playoff threat in an extremely competitive AFC.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>Key trends</h3><ul>
<li>The Cowboys are 2-7 ATS and 0-4 straight up and ATS at home.</li>
<li>The Texans are 4-5-1 ATS and 2-3 on the road.</li>
<li>Houston is 2-4 as a road favorite under DeMeco Ryans.</li>
<li>The Texans have the best under rate in the NFL, with eight of their 10 games going under the total.</li>
<li>C.J. Stroud is 1-3 ATS in night games and 5-10 ATS as a favorite in his career.</li>
</ul><h3>Insights</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th></th>
<th>% of Bets</th>
<th>% of Handle</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Texans -7</td>
<td>73.58%</td>
<td>46.85%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Cowboys +7</td>
<td>26.42%</td>
<td>53.15%</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Bettors are done with the Cowboys' egregious ATS record. Even as a touchdown underdog, 73% of the bets are on Houston to cover. However, 53% of the money is on Dallas.</p><p>Following the Texans' under streak, 62% of the bets and 72% of the handle are on the game to go under the 41.5 total.</p><h3>Best bet - Texans -7</h3><p>The Texans are desperate for a win after consecutive losses, while the Cowboys could quit on their season as the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/16" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/teams/16">Jaguars</a> did in Sunday's 46-point loss to the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/26" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/teams/26">Lions</a>. Laying a touchdown is never ideal, but it's worth it against Dallas' porous defense and incompetent offense.</p><h3>Players to watch</h3><p><strong>Joe Mixon over 89.5 rushing yards</strong></p><p>The Cowboys allow the second-most rushing yards per game, and Houston relies heavily on <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/82723" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/82723">Joe Mixon</a> to generate offense. He's rushed for over 100 yards in four of the past five games while averaging 22.4 carries.</p><p><strong>C.J. Stroud over 249.5 passing yards</strong></p><p>Houston's run-game production will open up the passing game. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/188132" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/188132">C.J. Stroud</a> has struggled the last few weeks with a revolving door of receivers, but he'll have his No. 1 weapon back in the lineup thanks to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/161840" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/161840">Nico Collins</a>' return.</p><p>Stroud has only reached 250 passing yards once in his past five games, but he surpassed this total in three of the five contests Collins played. The Cowboys' defense is helpless and will likely show poor effort as their season erodes.</p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports betting writer at theScore. </em><em>You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more betting coverage.</em></p>

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MNF betting preview: Can Texans snap 2-game skid against reeling Cowboys?

As the season winds down and the playoff puzzle begins to take shape, a few consequential matchup...

<p>As the season winds down and the playoff puzzle begins to take shape, a few consequential matchups remain in the final three weeks of the regular season. We're focusing on three of them this week.</p><h3>No. 23 Clemson @ No. 18 Pittsburgh (+10, O/U 53.5)</h3><p>Neither <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/158" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/158">Clemson</a> nor <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/526" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/526">Pittsburgh</a> controls its destiny. Both must win the ACC to earn a trip to the College Football Playoff. However, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/405" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/405">Miami</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/584" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/584">SMU</a> have an inside track to the ACC championship. Clemson and Pittsburgh must win out and need some good fortune. The loser of Saturday's contest is officially out of the race.</p><p><strong>Case for Clemson</strong></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><ul>
<li>After an unexpected 7-0 start, Pittsburgh has been exposed as a mediocre team that benefited from a bad schedule. The Panthers have lost two straight to SMU and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/716" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/716">Virginia</a>.</li>
<li>Clemson can beat opponents with its run game, which averages almost 200 yards per game, or with a steady pass game. Pittsburgh has a solid run defense and a poor pass defense.</li>
<li>Quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/172177" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/players/172177">Cade Klubnik</a> has had a rough past two weeks, but he's been solid for most of the season and usually takes care of the football. He should get back on track against Pitt. </li>
</ul><p><strong>Case for Pittsburgh</strong></p><ul>
<li>Quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/184166" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/players/184166">Eli Holstein</a> left last week's game with a head injury, and his status for Saturday is undetermined. Without him, Pitt has no chance to keep it close.</li>
<li>Pitt has an average rushing attack and a shaky defense. The Panthers, projected to finish at the bottom of the ACC, got off to a storybook start - but reality has kicked in. Pitt doesn't have the talent to compete with Clemson.</li>
</ul><p><strong>Trends/Insights</strong></p><ul>
<li>Pittsburgh is 6-3 ATS, while Clemson is 5-4.</li>
<li>Clemson is 2-1 ATS as an away favorite, but Pitt is 4-2 ATS at home.</li>
<li>Pittsburgh is 29-35-1 ATS at home under Pat Narduzzi.</li>
<li>Most bettors are on the underdog to cover the spread, with 60% of the handle (money wagered) and 56% of the bets on Pittsburgh +10 at theScore Bet/ESPN Bet.</li>
</ul><p><strong>Best bet - Clemson -10</strong></p><p>Pittsburgh is closer to the team it's been recently compared to how it looked during its red-hot start. Clemson must win its remaining games to give itself a chance, which should start with a dominant win in Pittsburgh.</p><h3>No. 7 Tennessee @ No. 3 Georgia (-10, O/U 48.5)</h3><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/255" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/255">Georgia</a> fell out of the latest College Football Playoff bracket following its loss to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/425" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/425">Ole Miss</a>, meaning it must win out to be considered for a spot in the playoff. The Bulldogs' only remaining challenging test is Saturday against <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/630" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/630">Tennessee</a>. Kirby Smart's squad is still -450 to make the playoff.</p><p><strong>Case for Tennessee</strong></p><ul>
<li>Tennessee is in first place in the SEC with just one loss, meaning a second loss wouldn't be disqualifying.</li>
<li>The Vols have an impressive win over <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/40" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/40">Alabama</a> but have had a lackluster schedule beyond that. Their lone loss was to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/59" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/59">Arkansas</a>. Tennessee could be on the outskirts with another loss as potentially six two-loss SEC teams battle for a playoff spot. With a win this weekend, Tennessee almost certainly punches its ticket.</li>
<li>Here's the bad news for Tennessee: Quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/184768" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/players/184768">Nico Iamaleava</a> is in concussion protocol, and his status for Saturday is uncertain. It's hard to imagine a backup quarterback going into Athens and upsetting the Bulldogs.</li>
<li>Tennessee relies primarily on its rushing attack, which leads the SEC in yards per game. However, it still needs a reliable signal-caller to beat Georgia.</li>
</ul><p><strong>Case for Georgia</strong></p><ul>
<li>Would any opponent want to face Georgia at home after a brutal loss? The Bulldogs are significantly more talented than Tennessee, which is worse than its record indicates.</li>
<li>Ole Miss smacked Georgia last weekend to hand it its second loss this season and its first defeat to a program other than Alabama since 2020.</li>
<li>Georgia's defense is equipped to stop Tennessee's run game with elite talent on its defensive line.</li>
<li>The Bulldogs can't get anything going on the ground offensively, and that won't change against Tennessee's rush defense, the SEC's second-best. However, if <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/148097" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/players/148097">Carson Beck</a> can avoid throwing interceptions, Georgia will successfully move the ball through the air.</li>
</ul><p><strong>Trends/Insights</strong></p><ul>
<li>Georgia doesn't lose often, but it's 12-3 straight up after a loss and 9-6 ATS under Smart.</li>
<li>The Bulldogs are 2-7 ATS this season and 0-3 at home, while the Vols are 5-4.</li>
<li>Tennessee is 1-4 ATS as a road underdog under Josh Heupel.</li>
<li>Georgia is just 9-15-1 ATS as a home favorite since 2020.</li>
<li>More than 70% of bets and 56% of the handle are on Tennessee to cover the double-digit spread.</li>
<li>The overwhelming majority of bets (88%) and the handle (96%) are on the under (48.5).</li>
</ul><p><strong>Best bet - Georgia -10</strong></p><p>There's too much uncertainty surrounding Tennessee with its quarterback situation in flux. The Vols have a daunting defense, but that won't matter if they can't consistently score. Georgia will come out extra motivated with its season on the line following a loss. I'm not betting against Smart in that situation.</p><h3>Utah @ Colorado (-11.5, O/U 45.5)</h3><p>The media attention around <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/164" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/164">Colorado</a> died down, but the Buffaloes heated up. Colorado is in a firm position to earn a trip to the Big 12 title game if it wins its final three games. The Buffs are +130 to win the Big 12 and earn a trip to the College Football Playoff.</p><p><strong>Case for Utah</strong></p><ul>
<li>
<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/677" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/677">Utah</a> could've easily won last week against <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/107" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/107">BYU</a> and spoiled the Cougars' perfect season. Utah's athletic director hounded the officials following the game because he believed they played a significant part in Utah's last-second loss.</li>
<li>Regardless, Utah competed amid a disastrous stretch and a disappointing season. The Utes have lost five straight after a 4-0 start.</li>
<li>Utah's problems are all on the Big 12's third-worst scoring offense.</li>
<li>The Utes have the conference's best scoring defense, holding opponents to 17 points per game.</li>
<li>Colorado has a high-powered offensive attack with NFL-caliber weapons, but Utah's only chance to compete is with its defense.</li>
</ul><p><strong>Case for Colorado</strong></p><ul>
<li>Colorado has won six of its last seven, averaging 37 points per game in those six wins.</li>
<li>It has the Heisman favorite in <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/179519" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/players/179519">Travis Hunter</a>, who's playing - and excelling - on both sides of the ball.</li>
<li>The Buffs are a pass-heavy offense, averaging the second-most passing yards per game in the Big 12. Meanwhile, their running game is nonexistent.</li>
<li>Colorado is one of the hottest groups in the country and appears on a mission to play for a conference championship.</li>
</ul><p><strong>Trends/Insights</strong></p><ul>
<li>Colorado is 7-2 ATS and 3-1 at home.</li>
<li>Utah is 3-6 ATS and 1-3 on the road.</li>
<li>Four of the last five Colorado games have gone over the total.</li>
<li>Bettors have loved Colorado all season, and this week's no different, with 68% of bets and 81% of the handle on the Buffs to cover.</li>
<li>However, bettors are split on the total, with 66% of the bets on the over but 82% of the handle on the under.</li>
</ul><p><strong>Best bet - Utah +11.5</strong></p><p>Deion Sanders deserves credit for turning around Colorado's once-lost season. However, now all the pressure is on the Buffs to win their remaining three games. Utah is undergoing a grueling stretch despite keeping it close against BYU. The Utes are equipped to limit Colorado's explosive pass game with the Big 12's second-best pass defense. Colorado should win at home, but a double-digit spread is too much.</p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports betting writer at theScore. </em><em>You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more betting coverage.</em></p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/29028640/related

CFB Week 12 betting preview: Can Georgia survive must-win vs. Tennessee?

The Eagles expanded their NFC East lead with a win over the Commanders on Thursday Night Football...

<p>The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/19" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/teams/19">Eagles</a> expanded their NFC East lead with a win over the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/20" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/teams/20">Commanders</a> on Thursday Night Football. Philadelphia trailed 10-3 late in the third quarter but scored 23 unanswered to move to 8-2 on the season. A win for Washington would have pushed it ahead of the Eagles for first place in the NFC East, a division with a new winner each season since 2004.</p><p>Instead, the Commanders dropped to 7-4 and will likely be in a tight wild-card race in the final few weeks. The Eagles entered Thursday as -225 favorites to win the NFC East, but that jumped to -550 (84% implied probability) after the game on theScore Bet and ESPN Bet. Washington was +185 before the game and is now +375. The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/17" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/teams/17">Cowboys</a> - last year's NFC East winners - and the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/18" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/teams/18">Giants</a> have dug themselves too deep a hole to climb back into the division race.</p><p>Philadelphia was the third-favorite to win the NFC at +425 prior to kickoff but leaped the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/23" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/teams/23">49ers</a> on the oddsboard and now sits at +360, trailing only the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/26" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/teams/26">Lions</a> (+175) to win the conference.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Eagles' rocky 2-2 start led to speculation they hadn't recovered from last season's monumental collapse when they finished 1-6 after a 10-1 start. However, the Eagles have won six straight since their Week 5 bye. Many of those wins came against lowly competition, creating hesitancy among oddsmakers to shorten the Eagles' odds. That changed Thursday when Philadelphia earned its first victory on this winning streak against an opponent with a winning record.</p><p>Regardless of the competition, the Eagles have looked as dominant as anyone over the last month. Their defense, blended with the perfect mix of youth and veterans, is first in total yards allowed per game. Defensive coordinator Vic Fangio has transformed one of the league's worst defenses into one of the best.</p><p>The story on offense has been <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/99272" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/99272">Saquon Barkley</a>, who has now surpassed 100 scrimmage yards eight times this season. Behind the NFL's best offensive line, Barkley leads the league in total rushing yards. He moved from +300 to win Offensive Player of the Year to +175, still trailing <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/72385" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/72385">Derrick Henry</a> at +110.</p><p>Combine an unstoppable rushing attack with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/105247" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/105247">Jalen Hurts</a>' dual-threat ability and a dynamic wide receiver tandem of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/111194" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/111194">A.J. Brown</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/161668" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/161668">DeVonta Smith</a>, and the Eagles have the seventh-best scoring offense.</p><p>Everything is clicking in Philadelphia as it positions itself to catch the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/26" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/teams/26">Lions</a> (8-1) for the coveted 1-seed and first-round bye. The Eagles are +300 to earn the 1-seed, while the Lions are -190.</p><p>The Eagles have a difficult stretch approaching with two road contests against the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/21" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/teams/21">Rams</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/12" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/teams/12">Ravens</a>, but they finish the season with manageable matchups. The Lions, meanwhile, still have the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/1" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/teams/1">Bills</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/27" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/teams/27">Packers</a>, 49ers, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/28" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/teams/28">Vikings</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/25" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/teams/25">Bears</a> twice on their schedule.</p><p>As for the Commanders, they need the Eagles to repeat their epic 2023 collapse and must beat Philly in their rematch in Week 16 to win the division. Washington was -750 to make the playoffs before the loss, but that slightly lengthened to -600 (85% implied probability). The Commanders have lost two straight after a 7-2 start, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/199756" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/199756">Jayden Daniels</a> has cooled off following an impressive beginning to his rookie campaign. However, they're still in prime position to make the postseason for the first time since 2020 with a relatively easy schedule and a bye to finish the season.</p><p>Preseason odds projected the Eagles and Cowboys would fight for the NFC East title, but Philadelphia's talent has carried it to the top of the standings, and the Commanders' surprise ascension has them firmly in the mix.</p><p>There's still a lot of football left (as Eagles fans know all too well), but Philadelphia's impressive win proved it's a Super Bowl contender and Washington is merely a playoff contender.</p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports betting writer at theScore. </em><em>You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more betting coverage.</em></p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/29037722/related

Eagles strengthen NFC East chances with commanding TNF win

It's mid-November and the last time the Cleveland Cavaliers lost a game was May 15, to the eventu...

<p>It's mid-November and the last time the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/7" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/7">Cleveland Cavaliers</a> lost a game was May 15, to the eventual champion <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/1" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/1">Boston Celtics</a> in the second round of the playoffs. </p><p>The NBA season started three weeks ago and the Cavs are off to an improbable 13-0 start. They're the sixth team in NBA history to win 13 straight to open a season. Cleveland fired J.B. Bickerstaff after that second-round exit to Boston, and hired Kenny Atkinson, who's emphasized ball movement and playing with pace. The Cavs' balanced, unselfish offense has the league's best offensive rating.</p><p>Cleveland is one of two top-10 offenses without a top-20 scorer, but it has six players averaging double figures. After reported tension between <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/44998" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/44998">Donovan Mitchell </a>and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/70243" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/70243">Darius Garland</a> last offseason, the backcourt duo is working brilliantly together, taking turns scoring and often deferring to each other.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96054" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96054">Evan Mobley</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/53393" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/53393">Jarrett Allen</a> are a terrorizing frontcourt duo as versatile defensive bigs who protect the rim effectively. Most teams have one rim-protector in their starting units, but two in the same lineup shrinks the floor for opposing offenses, which struggle to consistently score against the Cavs' sixth-best defense. </p><p>The beauty of the Cavs' roster is they can stagger guard and big pairings to ensure a reliable creator and a highly productive center are always paired. Mitchell and Mobley have played together more than any other two-man combo on the Cavs, outscoring opponents by 13.9 points per 100 possessions when they share the floor. Garland and Allen have the second-most minutes among two-man lineups, outscoring opponents by 8.4 points per 100 possessions. Garland and Mobley have an 11.5 net rating together while Mitchell and Allen have a 6.6 net rating. You get the point.</p><p>Mobley's offensive leap is a key catalyst sparking the Cavs' offensive resurgence from bottom half to league best. Atkinson gives Mobley more opportunities with the ball and encourages aggression. The Defensive Player of the Year candidate has the highest usage rate of his career and is averaging 7.8 drives per game, up from 4.7. He's also been featured as the pick-and-roll ball-handler running inverted pick-and-rolls after rarely assuming that role last season. He's getting to the free-throw line more and converting from the stripe at a higher clip.</p><p>While his three is still a work in progress - he's hitting 33% of his 3-pointers - his willingness to shoot expands the Cavs' offense as spacing concerns with Mobley and Allen linger. He attempted just seven threes through the first 13 games last season and has shot 21 through the same period this campaign. Mobley's defensive prowess is well-documented - he's the second favorite behind <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/110276" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/110276">Victor Wembanyama</a> to win Defensive Player of the Year - but he's the key who could unlock the Cavs' championship chest.</p><p>The Cavs have one of the NBA's deepest benches beyond their core four, averaging the league's fifth-most bench points. That's without <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/52639" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/52639">Max Strus</a>, Cleveland's sixth-leading scorer from last season who's out due to injury and still a few weeks away from returning.</p><p>So, will the Cavs ever lose? Well, obviously (we think). And here's when that first loss may occur according to theScore Bet and ESPN Bet:</p><h3>Cavs next loss odds</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Opponent (date)</th>
<th>Odds</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>vs. Bulls (Nov. 15)</td>
<td>+380</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>vs. Hornets (Nov. 17)</td>
<td>+500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>@ Celtics (Nov. 19)</td>
<td>-110</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>vs. Pelicans (Nov. 20)</td>
<td>+2500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>vs. Raptors (Nov. 24)</td>
<td>+3300</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>vs. Hawks (Nov. 27)</td>
<td>+1400</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>@ Hawks (Nov. 29)</td>
<td>+1600</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Game 21 or later</td>
<td>+1000</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>The Cavs flirted with a loss to bad teams in recent games, including escaping Philadelphia - 2-9 and without three All-Stars - with a win Wednesday.</p><p>Cleveland's next two games are against below-.500 teams (in fairness, only three teams in the East are above .500), so it should win as favorites. The Cavs are 10.5-point favorites against the Bulls (5-7) on Friday. If they reach 15-0, they tie the 1993-94 Houston <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/22" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/22">Rockets</a> and 1948-49 Washington Capitols for the second-best start in NBA/BAA history. The 2015-16 <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/16" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/16">Warriors</a>, who won the most games in league history, started 24-0, and that seems unattainable.</p><p>The Cavs' most challenging upcoming matchup is an NBA Cup showdown against the Celtics on Tuesday; oddsmakers project that'll be their first loss. If they somehow escape Boston with a win as underdogs, the Cavs have a fairly easy stretch that could extend their win streak beyond 20. Granted, the better team doesn't always win in the NBA throughout an 82-game season.</p><p>Once an afterthought to contend for the East crown alongside the Celtics, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/3" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/3">Knicks</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/4" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/4">Sixers</a>, the Cavs are +600 to win the East, down from +2500 when the market opened. They also moved from +4000 to win the NBA Finals to +1700. The NBA season is only 15% complete, but those odds will shrink if Cleveland keeps winning.</p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports betting writer at theScore. </em><em>You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more betting coverage.</em></p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/29035116/related

When will the undefeated Cavaliers lose?

Odds and data via theScore Bet and ESPN Bet  The increased intensity of NBA Cup games, their uniq...

<p><em>Odds and data via theScore Bet and ESPN Bet</em></p><p>The increased intensity of NBA Cup games, their unique aesthetics, and a December showcase in Las Vegas accomplished exactly what the league intended: attracting attention and creating more excitement about the regular season among both players and fans last year.</p><p>Granted, it helped that <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/72" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/72">LeBron James</a> and the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/18" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/18">Lakers</a> - the most marketable NBA player of the last generation and the team with the largest fan base - won the inaugural NBA Cup (formerly known as the In-Season Tournament).</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>In the grand scheme of the season, the tournament, which returns Tuesday, was meaningless. The 7-seed Lakers were knocked out of the first round of the playoffs but hung an NBA Cup banner at the league's direction.</p><p>Select games over the next month count toward tournament seeding before the knockout rounds begin in December. Let's compare some teams' NBA Cup odds to their NBA Finals odds.</p><h3>Cup odds vs. championship odds</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Team</th>
<th>NBA Cup odds</th>
<th>NBA Finals odds</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Celtics</td>
<td>+255</td>
<td>+380</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Cavaliers</td>
<td>+600</td>
<td>+1800</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Knicks</td>
<td>+900</td>
<td>+800</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Thunder</td>
<td>+1100</td>
<td>+450</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nuggets</td>
<td>+1200</td>
<td>+1400</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Timberwolves</td>
<td>+1200</td>
<td>+1100</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Suns</td>
<td>+1200</td>
<td>+1600</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Mavericks</td>
<td>+1500</td>
<td>+1100</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Warriors</td>
<td>+1600</td>
<td>+3000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Lakers</td>
<td>+1600</td>
<td>+2500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Bucks</td>
<td>+2000</td>
<td>+1800</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>76ers</td>
<td>+2000</td>
<td>+1800</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kings</td>
<td>+2200</td>
<td>+5000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Pacers</td>
<td>+2500</td>
<td>+5000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Rockets</td>
<td>+3000</td>
<td>+10000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Heat</td>
<td>+3000</td>
<td>+5000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Magic</td>
<td>+5000</td>
<td>+5000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Clippers</td>
<td>+6000</td>
<td>+10000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Grizzlies</td>
<td>+7500</td>
<td>+4000</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>The best teams and eventual champions rarely hit their stride this early in the season. Organizations with legitimate championship aspirations won't go all out to secure an NBA Cup victory if it risks compromising the ultimate goal. Given those factors, top teams and preseason favorites seem unlikely to win the tournament.</p><p>Even without <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/44888" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/44888">Kristaps Porzingis</a>, the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/1" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/1">Celtics</a> are the league's best team. Thus, Boston has the best odds to win both the Finals and the NBA Cup. Although the Celtics are focused on becoming the first back-to-back champions since the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/16" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/16">Warriors</a> in 2018, they rarely lose games, so they should contend in the regular-season tournament even if it's not their priority. Almost 20% of the money wagered is on Boston to win the NBA Cup.</p><p>The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/7" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/7">Cavaliers</a> were +2200 when the tournament market opened. Now, they're the league's hottest squad after becoming the seventh team in NBA history to start 12-0. That shortened the Cavs' odds substantially until they became the second favorites at +600. Cleveland has garnered as many bets to hoist the trophy in Vegas as Boston.</p><p>But there's still a massive discrepancy between Cleveland's NBA Cup odds and Finals odds. Any talented team can get hot in November and go on a run in a single-elimination tournament, but are the Cavs legitimate threats to win four straight seven-game series? There are questions about how their personnel would fare in the playoffs, including a two-big lineup of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/53393" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/53393">Jarrett Allen</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96054" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96054">Evan Mobley</a>. For now, it's all smiles in Cleveland.</p><p>The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/3" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/3">Knicks</a> are high on the NBA Cup oddsboard, but bettors are wary of their defense and lack of bench. New York hasn't attracted as many tickets as the other favorites.</p><p>Although the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/19" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/19">Suns</a> were one of the hottest teams to start the season and are second in the West, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/345" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/345">Kevin Durant</a>'s indefinite absence hurts Phoenix's chances. Still, the second-most money wagered to win the NBA Cup is on the Suns.</p><p>Injuries have plagued the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/28" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/28">Thunder</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/23" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/23">Grizzlies</a>, and both groups have much better odds of winning the championship in June than the trophy in December. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102801" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102801">Chet Holmgren</a> is out for at least two months with a pelvic fracture, while <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/62077" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/62077">Ja Morant </a>is week-to-week with a hip injury.</p><p>Could the Lakers take it for a second consecutive year? The odds give them a much better chance to win this tournament than the championship, but they've been poor defensively as JJ Redick tinkers with his lineups.</p><p>The Warriors fit the bill of a potential winner: They're off to a hot start (8-2) but aren't serious Finals contenders without a reliable secondary creator and scorer alongside <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/148" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/148">Steph Curry</a>. Their top-five offense and defense, along with the league's deepest bench, could carry them to NBA Cup triumph.</p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports betting writer at theScore. </em><em>You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more betting coverage.</em></p>

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NBA Cup betting: Which hot teams can win the tournament?

Odds and data via theScore Bet and ESPN Bet  Spike Lee couldn't script a more disastrous start to...

<p><em>Odds and data via theScore Bet and ESPN Bet</em></p><p>Spike Lee couldn't script a more disastrous start to the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/4" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/4">Sixers</a>' season if he tried. The Sixers, who had a monumental offseason and entered the campaign with the third-best odds to win the East, are 2-7 and tied for the NBA's third-worst record.</p><p>First, peculiar messaging surrounding <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/31932" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/31932">Joel Embiid</a>'s playing status while he sat out the first few games of the season led to an NBA investigation and a subsequent fine after the league determined <a href="https://www.thescore.com/nba/news/3112410">Sixers officials made inconsistent public statements</a> about Embiid's injury status. Embiid's surgically repaired knee, which forced him to sit out 43 games last season and restricted him throughout the postseason, is reportedly still an issue.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The uncertainty and mystery surrounding the former MVP led to criticism from a local newspaper columnist. Embiid took issue with a reporter invoking his family when questioning his availability and then shoved the reporter in the locker room. Philadelphia's franchise cornerstone was suspended three games for the incident.</p><p>Meanwhile, offseason free-agent pickup <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/1889" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/1889">Paul George</a> injured his knee in the preseason and missed the first five games. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93855" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93855">Tyrese Maxey</a> carried an enormous usage rate and led the league in scoring and minutes despite failing to produce wins as he tried to weather the storm without his two co-stars. Maxey then injured his hamstring, and he's out for at least another week.</p><p>Embiid's return from injury and suspension is set for Tuesday's NBA Cup opener against the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/3" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/3">Knicks</a>. However, the Big Three's debut showcase is delayed again without Maxey.</p><p>It's always sunny in Philadelphia, isn't it? </p><p>The rest of the East got a head start as the Sixers' shenanigans hurt them in the standings, but conference rivals didn't take advantage. Only two Eastern Conference teams are above .500 - the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/1" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/1">Celtics</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/7" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/7">Cavs</a>. Potential contenders such as the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/10" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/10">Bucks</a>, Knicks, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/14" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/14">Magic</a> have struggled for various reasons. The Sixers have the fourth-best odds (+900) to win the East behind the Celtics, Knicks, and Cavs and have a 90% implied probability of making the playoffs.</p><p>Philadelphia's first opportunity to make up some ground with Embiid in the fold comes against the Knicks. New York eliminated the Sixers in the first round last season while successfully limiting a hobbled Embiid during crucial stretches, but this is a different squad. How much should fans expect from Embiid in his season debut?</p><p>Embiid is presumably healthy and well-conditioned enough to play. However, the Sixers have made it abundantly clear they will be extra cautious with their 7-footer in hopes of dragging him into the postseason healthy.</p><p>He's never played more than 35 minutes per game in a season. It's fair to assume he'll be on a minutes restriction against New York that won't exceed 30. George is on a minutes restriction as well.</p><p>All the off-court drama surrounding Embiid makes it easy to forget he's one of the best per-minute scorers in NBA history. He's averaged at least 33 points and 10 boards each of the past two seasons. Embiid's transition to a larger playmaking role led to higher assist totals. His assists should climb even higher this season while he operates as a hub alongside George and Maxey.</p><p>Embiid won't face <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/62053" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/62053">Mitchell Robinson</a> or <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60051" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60051">Isaiah Hartenstein</a>, two centers who troubled him in the playoffs. Robinson is injured and Hartenstein left New York for Oklahoma City. Their absences created a hole in the Knicks' frontcourt that new addition <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37817" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37817">Karl-Anthony Towns</a> can't fill. Towns is a huge offensive upgrade, but he isn't a natural center, and his lack of rim protection has hurt the Knicks' defense. New York's starting unit has the worst defensive rating and second-best offensive rating among lineups that have played at least 100 minutes together. The former Minnesota big allows opponents to shoot 91% in the restricted area, per ESPN Stats and Info.</p><p>Simply put, Towns can't properly protect the rim as a center. As I wrote when the trade <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3087503" href="https://thescore.com/news/3087503">went down</a>, there's a reason the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/teams/27" href="https://thescore.com/nba/teams/27">Timberwolves</a> brought in <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30615" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/30615">Rudy Gobert</a> and moved Towns to power forward years ago.</p><p>That bodes well for Embiid to feast inside. His points prop is set for 25.5, his rebounds prop is 9.5, and his assists prop is 4.5. His combined points, rebounds, and assists total is 38.5, and he's +2200 to record a triple-double. He scored at least 26 points in 36 of his 39 games last season, and he can easily exceed that Tuesday while shaking off some rust and playing fewer minutes.</p><p>Aside from the defensive concerns, the Knicks have no reliable bench pieces besides <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96035" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96035">Miles McBride</a>. They rank last in bench points and minutes. As a result, New York's starters become fatigued from huge workloads. The Knicks have been outscored by 13.7 points per 100 possessions in the fourth quarter, the NBA's second-worst mark. They have the worst clutch net rating in the NBA.</p><p>Yet, with all the uncertainty surrounding the Sixers and Maxey's absence, the Knicks are 2.5-point road favorites. It's a few weeks late, but the Sixers' season officially begins Tuesday.</p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports betting writer at theScore. </em><em>You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more betting coverage.</em></p>

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What to expect in Embiid's season debut against the Knicks

Odds and data via theScore Bet and ESPN Bet !function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("mes...

<p><em>Odds and data via theScore Bet and ESPN Bet</em></p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Game 12" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-ZaM3B" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/ZaM3B/2/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="108" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/21" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/teams/21">Rams</a> (4-4) remain alive in the mediocre NFC West and are two wins behind the first-place <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/22" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/teams/22">Cardinals</a>. Los Angeles' playoff hopes could take a hit with a Monday Night Football loss as Arizona surges and the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/23" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/teams/23">49ers</a> become healthy.</p><p>The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/2" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/teams/2">Dolphins</a> (2-6) are undergoing a lost season as <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/114411" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/114411">Tua Tagovailoa</a>'s four-game absence tanked their playoff hopes. While they're not mathematically eliminated and could go on a miraculous run to finish the season, the Dolphins are +425 (19% implied probability) to make the postseason.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Miami is 0-2 since Tagovailoa returned from a concussion, but both were competitive losses to quality teams. The Dolphins scored 54 points in the past two weeks with Tagovailoa under center after combining for 50 points in the five weeks prior.</p><p>Mike McDaniel's offense has life again, which bodes well for Miami against a struggling Rams defense. </p><h3>Key trends</h3><ul>
<li>Both teams have struggled against the spread. The Dolphins are 2-6 ATS and the Rams are 3-5.</li>
<li>The Rams are 31-30-3 ATS at home under Sean McVay.</li>
<li>The Dolphins are 6-8 ATS as road underdogs under McDaniel.</li>
<li>Tagovailoa is 3-9 ATS in night games, and he's 1-6 ATS in his past seven starts.</li>
<li>Under McDaniel, Miami is 1-4 ATS in its next matchup after playing the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/1" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/teams/1">Bills</a>. The Dolphins lost to Buffalo last week.</li>
</ul><h3>Insights</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th></th>
<th>% of Bets</th>
<th>% of Handle</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Dolphins +2.5</td>
<td>20.38%</td>
<td>42.93%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Rams -2.5</td>
<td>79.62%</td>
<td>57.07%</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Public and sharp bettors like the Rams to cover at home. As for the total, almost 70% of bets and 60% of the handle is on over 48.5.</p><p><strong>Best bet - Dolphins +2.5</strong></p><p>The Rams allow 360 yards per game, eighth worst in the NFL. They also have the ninth-worst pass defense. Miami's offensive resurgence hasn't produced wins in recent weeks, but it should Monday night against an exploitable defense. Plus, the Dolphins rank top 10 in total defense and the Rams' offense hasn't been consistent enough to trust.</p><h3>Players to watch</h3><p><strong>Tyreek Hill over 80.5 receiving yards</strong></p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/83498" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/83498">Tyreek Hill</a> has had a down season, mostly because of Miami's revolving door of quarterbacks. But that's about to change. Miami knows it must feed its superstar playmaker more. The Rams have a weak pass defense, so getting the ball to Hill and letting his explosiveness carry the Dolphins should be part of the game plan.</p><p><strong>Tua Tagovailoa over 249.5 passing yards</strong></p><p>The Dolphins must rely on Tagovailoa's arm to beat the Rams. He hasn't exceeded this passing total since he returned, but he threw for at least 230 yards the past two weeks. Quarterbacks have torn apart Los Angeles' secondary all season, and Tagovailoa should do the same.</p><p><strong>Cooper Kupp over 6.5 receptions</strong></p><p>When healthy, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/68147" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/68147">Cooper Kupp</a> is <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/680" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/680">Matthew Stafford</a>'s favorite target. Kupp is averaging 8.7 receptions in four games this season. The Rams throw the ball a ton, meaning Kupp won't lack targets.</p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports betting writer at theScore. </em><em>You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more betting coverage.</em></p>

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