Welcome to a recurring look at the top contenders for the NBA's various individual awards.  Rooki...

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/33863313/related

NBA awards watch: Jokic, SGA in tense MVP duel

Christmas Day is the NBA's day. No matter how hard the NFL tries to hijack the holiday by floodin...

<p>Christmas Day is the NBA's day. No matter how hard the NFL tries to hijack the holiday by flooding the calendar with games, Christmas has historically been reserved for basketball. Let's not change traditions, Roger Goodell. Luckily for the NBA, it has an incredible five-game slate to serve fans all day, while the NFL features three mundane matchups.</p><p>Alright, enough of the competition. Let's dive into our favorite picks and what to watch for during all five contests, and hopefully, we'll end the day with some extra gifts in our pockets.</p><blockquote><p>🏀 <strong><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnba&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3435827">Check out our full Christmas Day selections on theScore Bet</a></strong></p></blockquote><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Game 5 (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-v85B9" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/v85B9/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="126" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p><em>Game time: 12 p.m. ET</em></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>🎄 <a href="http://market_selection_id%5B0%5D=f9df8aa4-116a-498a-b38c-c1034cc77ba0&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=21&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=11&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnba&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3435827">Bet: Knicks -6.5</a>
</h3><p>The Knicks are 18-12 against the spread this season - the league's fourth-best mark - including a remarkable 13-3 at home. The Cavs, who are a disappointing 17-14, own the NBA's worst record against the spread at 9-22. Evan Mobley's extended absence and Darius Garland's atrocious shooting numbers have hindered Cleveland.</p><p>The Cavs have lost four of their last seven games and possess a bottom-half defense, which won't stop the Knicks' second-best offense. New York has won 11 of its past 13 games in which Jalen Brunson has played by an average margin of 14 points.</p><h3>🎄 <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=ab075c84-4573-47c9-a668-88543aa430d8&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=41&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=21&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnba%2Fevent%2F9b78f108-2989-4ec7-ac56-68fec1377d46&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3435827">Bet: Josh Hart over 8.5 rebounds</a>
</h3><p>Hart, who's grabbed double-digit rebounds in his last three appearances, is averaging 8.9 boards in December. He's the NBA's best rebounding guard and constantly crashes the offensive glass, which he can showcase against a Cavs team that ranks in the bottom half in rebounding percentage.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Game 5 (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-yc8on" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/yc8on/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="126" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p><em>Game time: 2:30 p.m. </em></p><h3>🎅<a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=df641a14-c6af-42ab-91f9-9590a92da96d&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=21&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=11&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnba%2Fevent%2Fb3d00acc-d0ba-40ca-9c2c-807408ddbf97&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3435827"> Bet: Victor Wembanyama over 29.5 PRA</a>
</h3><p>Wembanyama elevates his performance on big stages. He scored 42 points, grabbed 18 boards, and dished out four assists on Christmas last year. The Spurs have already defeated the Thunder twice in December, and Wemby evidently enjoys facing the defending champs in this budding rivalry, particularly Chet Holmgren.</p><p>Since returning from a calf injury, the Frenchman hasn't played more than 30 minutes as the Spurs slowly ramp him up. However, Christmas Day could be when he assumes a larger workload. Wemby has compiled at least 30 points, rebounds, and assists in 11 of the 12 games in which he's played 30 or more minutes. Wembanyama to record a double-double (+110) is also worth a bet.</p><h3>🎅 <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=70abde59-edd8-4e8e-b2c9-81c2c1955efd&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=27&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=17&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnba%2Fevent%2Fb3d00acc-d0ba-40ca-9c2c-807408ddbf97&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3435827">Bet: Harrison Barnes over 1.5 threes</a>
</h3><p>Barnes is shooting 40% from three on 5.5 attempts per contest, his highest volume since 2018-19. He's made at least two threes in over half his games this season. Wembanyama's presence, combined with the Spurs' dynamic on-ball playmakers, creates open shots for Barnes in the corners and on the wings. He hit two threes against OKC on Tuesday, and although he went 0-for-8 the first time they played, the volume existed.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Game 5 (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-VyFmY" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/VyFmY/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="126" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p><em>Game time: 5 p.m.</em></p><h3>🎄 <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=1fcad47c-9b93-4f52-a117-9e42209ce228&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=43&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=23&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnba%2Fevent%2Fb54a679c-d15a-43c9-a4e3-4854d45ee25f&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3435827">Bet: Mavericks +8.5</a>
</h3><p>The Mavericks have won seven of their last 11 outings. Anthony Davis' return, Cooper Flagg's ascension, and the revelation of Ryan Nembhard at point guard have Dallas trending in the right direction. The Warriors, however, are a mess. Although they've won two straight games, they're only 15-15. Forget Draymond Green's outburst in the direction of Steve Kerr during a timeout; the on-court product has been just as ugly. Golden State owns the third-best defense but has the 21st-ranked offense. Even Steph Curry's brilliance can't carry a lackluster supporting cast. Since Nov. 18, the Mavs have lost only two of their 16 games by more than eight points.</p><h3>🎄 <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=dfc220b4-9fc4-477f-a5ff-ddd66db1d3a4&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=21&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=11&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnba%2Fevent%2Fb54a679c-d15a-43c9-a4e3-4854d45ee25f&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3435827">Bet: Under 227.5</a>
</h3><p>Golden State sits 22nd in points per contest, while Dallas is 23rd. Neither group generates much offense. On the other side, both units rank in the top nine defensively. This should be a defensive battle between lifeless offenses. Plus, 55% of the Mavericks' games have gone under this season.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Game 5 (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-hd4KX" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/hd4KX/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="126" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p><em>Game time: 8 p.m.</em></p><h3>🎅 <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=074df51a-1d9a-4056-b77d-7b2decaf7939&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=41&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=21&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnba%2Fevent%2F5f43fdbf-0e5d-4d25-b177-e587e9effeb8&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3435827">Bet: Austin Reaves over 19.5 points</a>
</h3><p>Reaves is averaging 27.3 points per game. This point total is low because he returned from a two-week absence Tuesday and only played 22 minutes (he still scored 17 points). I'd expect him to play more minutes in his second game back, and he'll have to carry the scoring load as Luka Doncic deals with a calf injury. Doncic is questionable to play but won't be 100% if he does take the floor. Reaves has scored at least 20 points in 17 of his 22 appearances.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Game 5 (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-eWhWJ" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/eWhWJ/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="126" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p><em>Game time: 10:30 p.m.</em></p><h3>🎄 <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=57711179-e8bd-4a48-a4a8-ac241e258a54&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=21&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=11&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnba%2Fevent%2F3c186048-6b71-4841-9f5f-dfda9463b171&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3435827">Bet: Timberwolves +3.5</a>
</h3><p>The Nuggets were already without Aaron Gordon and Christian Braun. Then, Cam Johnson left Tuesday's game with a knee sprain. He seems unlikely to play on Christmas, meaning Denver will be without three starters. Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray, both of whom are having career years, have carried the team, but they can only do so much. After a rough start, Minnesota has won 10 of its last 12 games. The Wolves' fifth-best defense should neutralize the Nuggets' second-best offense.</p><div> </div><h3>🎄 <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=8adf4cd3-8009-438d-bc02-893c1ef3195f&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=11&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=6&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnba%2Fevent%2F3c186048-6b71-4841-9f5f-dfda9463b171&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3435827">Bet: Anthony Edwards over 28.5 points</a>
</h3><p>In an interview with <a href="https://x.com/ShamsCharania/status/2003845670734631331">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>, Edwards said that he'll definitely score 30, maybe even 40, on Christmas. Why not trust him? He's thrived under the bright lights before. The three-time All-Star is averaging 28.7 points and should have a field day feasting on a bottom-half defense.</p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports writer at theScore. </em><em>You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more basketball coverage.</em></p><p><em>US: Must be 21+. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER; Hope is here. Call <a href="tel:8003275050">(800)-327-5050</a> or visit <a href="http://gamblinghelplinema.org/">gamblinghelplinema.org</a> for 24/7 support (MA); Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY).</em></p><p><em>ON: Please play responsibly. 19+. ON only. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call ConnexOntario 24/7 at <a href="tel:18665312600">1-866-531-2600</a>. Text us at 247247 or chat with us at <a href="http://www.connexontario.ca/">www.connexontario.ca</a>.</em></p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/33860015/related

NBA Christmas Day picks: Spurs-Thunder rematch headlines holiday card

With Christmas Day landing on a Thursday, the NFL's gifted football fans a three-game Christmas s...

<p>With Christmas Day landing on a Thursday, the NFL's gifted football fans a three-game Christmas slate. The contests don't feature this year's marquee teams, but we've still got you covered with props from each matchup.</p><blockquote><p>👉 <strong><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl&amp;campaign=thescore_bet&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-bet&amp;tags=3434887">Check out a full selection of player props on theScore Bet here</a></strong></p></blockquote><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/799744/player_props-Green.jpg?ts=1756828039" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/799744/player_props-Green.jpg?ts=1756828039 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/799744/player_props-Green.jpg?ts=1756828039 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/799744/player_props-Green.jpg?ts=1756828039 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/799744/player_props-Green.jpg?ts=1756828039 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/799744/player_props-Green.jpg?ts=1756828039 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution"></span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Dallas Cowboys" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-n0tC9" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/n0tC9/4/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="99" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><h3>🏈 <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=9943ebe7-e8a6-4f23-b364-2ae391ec7c45&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=11&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=6&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fevent%2F535f4c25-39c6-4b48-a093-2b0052e85d94&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3434887">Bet: Over 79.5 receiving yards</a>
</h3><p>Before last week's 51-yard outing, Lamb had recorded at least 111 yards in three straight games. He's averaging 85.6 receiving yards per game this season. Even though the Cowboys aren't playing for anything after being eliminated from playoff contention, they'll continue to rely on the passing game to move the chains, especially against the league's seventh-worst passing defense. Lamb recorded five catches for 110 yards when he faced Washington earlier this season.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Washington Commanders (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-PZKkS" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/PZKkS/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="99" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><h3>🏈<a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=0011f873-9d32-44a8-af7b-c4f612bbcd79&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=11&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=6&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fevent%2F535f4c25-39c6-4b48-a093-2b0052e85d94&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3434887"> Bet: Over 49.5 receiving yards</a>
</h3><p>McLaurin has consistently produced when available, regardless of who's at quarterback. He's accumulated at least 50 yards in five of his last six games. He should have similar success against the Cowboys' defense, which allows the most passing yards per game in the NFL.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Detroit Lions (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-4HtUg" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/4HtUg/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="99" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><h3>🏈 <a href="https://espnbet.app.link/integrations?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=e85d42ae-353f-428e-90d0-df9e90bf7ebc&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=21&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=11&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fevent%2F3b5a7af7-fd11-4b51-a0b0-4ca48c7fd1c2&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3434887">Bet: Over 242.5 passing yards</a>
</h3><p>It's hard for oddsmakers to place a number on Goff's passing totals, but this one is too low. Goff's thrown for more than 250 yards in his last eight games and is averaging 269 passing yards on the season. While the Vikings' passing defense is better than its rushing defense, there's plenty of yardage to go around for Detroit, which averages the third-most yards per game.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Detroit Lions (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-hQfyp" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/hQfyp/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="99" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><h3>🏈 <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=f616bb97-3746-4990-a551-b248c5946815&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=41&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=21&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fevent%2F3b5a7af7-fd11-4b51-a0b0-4ca48c7fd1c2&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3434887">Bet: Over 34.5 rushing yards</a>
</h3><p>Although Jahmyr Gibbs is the Lions' primary running back, they rely on a split backfield and sometimes reward Montgomery with more carries. That was the case the last time the Lions played the Vikings, as Montgomery earned 11 carries compared to Gibbs' nine. Gibbs' carries have dropped the last few weeks. I'd expect that to continue while Montgomery shoulders a bigger workload against a bottom-third rushing defense.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Kansas City Chiefs (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-1l9Ca" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/1l9Ca/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="99" 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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}})}();
</script></figure><h3>🏈 <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=6783aff0-9e98-4166-b990-4ec9a1753945&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=21&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=11&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fevent%2F612b0ebb-8606-475f-88bc-df9b1ff9d14c&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3434887">Bet: Under 37.5 rushing yards</a>
</h3><p>Pacheco hasn't rushed for 38 yards in his last four games. He's only eclipsed that mark four times this season. He'll have an even harder time reaching it against the Broncos' second-best rushing defense. This is a completely meaningless game for the Chiefs, giving them no reason to rely on the run, especially when they'll be trailing for most of the night.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Denver Broncos (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-bu1uA" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/bu1uA/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="99" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><h3>🏈 <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=b185426f-b3b3-4a1a-8a37-aa13465bf94e&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=47&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=27&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fevent%2F612b0ebb-8606-475f-88bc-df9b1ff9d14c&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3434887">Bet: Over 4.5 receptions</a>
</h3><p>Sutton has become Bo Nix's top option of late. He's caught at least five passes for 62 yards in each of the past four games. This is an important game for the Broncos and a meaningless one for the Chiefs, so Denver should lay a beatdown on a bruised Chiefs squad.</p><p><em>US: Must be 21+. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER; Hope is here. Call <a href="tel:8003275050">(800)-327-5050</a> or visit <a href="http://gamblinghelplinema.org/">gamblinghelplinema.org</a> for 24/7 support (MA); Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY).</em></p><p><em>ON: Please play responsibly. 19+. ON only. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call ConnexOntario 24/7 at <a href="tel:18665312600">1-866-531-2600</a>. Text us at 247247 or chat with us at <a href="http://www.connexontario.ca/">www.connexontario.ca</a>.</em></p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/33850931/related

NFL Christmas Day Prop Party: Lions' offense as gift that keeps on giving

Imagine telling someone in August that the Ravens and Lions - who made it to the divisional round...

<p>Imagine telling someone in August that the Ravens and Lions - who made it to the divisional round of the playoffs last season - would enter the final two weeks of this regular season as massive long shots to even appear in the postseason. Then again, no one expected the Chiefs to miss the playoffs. That's the NFL, where the only thing to expect is the unexpected.</p><p>So, what do the odds look like for teams that haven't clinched a playoff spot but are still jockeying for position? And what's the long shots' path to sneak into the dance? Let's break it down.</p><h3><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3434783">Playoff odds</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Team</th>
<th>Odds to make playoffs</th>
<th>Implied Prob.</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Packers</td>
<td>-4000</td>
<td>97.6%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Steelers</td>
<td>-1600</td>
<td>94.1% </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Buccaneers</td>
<td>-145</td>
<td>59.2% </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Panthers</td>
<td>+125</td>
<td>44.4% </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ravens</td>
<td>+800</td>
<td>11.1% </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Lions</td>
<td>+1300</td>
<td>7.1% </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Colts</td>
<td>+3500</td>
<td>2.8%</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><blockquote><p>🏈 <strong><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3434783">Full futures odds can be found on theScore Bet here</a></strong></p></blockquote><h3><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3434783">Lions' path to the playoffs</a></h3><p>Detroit's heartbreaking and controversial loss to the Steelers on Sunday dimmed its playoff hopes. In a competitive NFC wild-card race, the Lions' path is clear: They have to win their final two games, and the Packers must lose their final two games.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>That's why oddsmakers give the Lions a 7% chance to make the playoffs, and that might be generous. Detroit's next two games are against divisional opponents - the lowly Vikings on Christmas Day (the Lions are 6-point favorites) and a season finale against the first-place Bears. It's certainly possible for the Lions to finish the season 2-0; it's just less likely that the Packers go 0-2. They play the injury-ravaged Ravens on Saturday (as 2.5-point favorites) and close the season against the Vikings.</p><h3><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3434783">Ravens' path to the playoffs</a></h3><p>The Ravens are out of the AFC wild-card race. Their only chance to make the playoffs is to overtake the Steelers for the AFC North crown. But that won't be easy. Baltimore's path to the playoffs requires defeating the Packers on the road as an underdog Saturday and then needing the Steelers to lose to the Browns as 4.5-point favorites. If the Steelers win or the Ravens lose, Baltimore is eliminated. If somehow the Steelers lose and the Ravens win, then Ravens versus Steelers in Week 18 would be for the AFC North title and a trip to the playoffs.</p><p>Lamar Jackson's status complicates things even more for the Ravens. He left Sunday night's loss to the Patriots with a back injury, and his Week 17 status is undetermined. Oddsmakers assign Baltimore an 11% chance of earning a playoff appearance.</p><h3><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3434783">Panthers and Bucs in tight NFC South race</a></h3><p>After the Panthers defeated the Buccaneers on Sunday night, Carolina moved into first place in the division at 8-7, while Tampa Bay fell to 7-8. So, why do the Bucs (-145) still have better odds to win the NFC South and make the playoffs than the Panthers (+125)?</p><p>If the Panthers win their final two games, they're in. However, they play the Seahawks and then have a rematch against the Bucs in the season finale. If the Panthers win and the Bucs lose to the Dolphins, then the Panthers clinch the division. However, that's unlikely: The Bucs are 5.5-point favorites over Miami and Carolina is a 7-point underdog to the 12-3 Seahawks.</p><p>If the Panthers and Bucs both win this Sunday, the division will come down to their Week 18 showdown. The Bucs own the tiebreakers over the Panthers. If they finish with the same record, Tampa Bay is in. Unless something wild happens, that Week 18 matchup, where the Bucs will be favored at home, will decide who wins the NFC South.</p><p><em>US: Must be 21+. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER; Hope is here. Call <a href="tel:8003275050">(800)-327-5050</a> or visit <a href="http://gamblinghelplinema.org/">gamblinghelplinema.org</a> for 24/7 support (MA); Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY).</em></p><p><em>ON: Please play responsibly. 19+. ON only. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call ConnexOntario 24/7 at <a href="tel:18665312600">1-866-531-2600</a>. Text us at 247247 or chat with us at <a href="http://www.connexontario.ca/">www.connexontario.ca</a>.</em></p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/33847180/related

NFL playoff odds: Lions', Ravens' chances plummet after Week 16 losses

Bowl season is here! With playoff expansion and constant player and coach movement diminishing th...

<p>Bowl season is here! With playoff expansion and constant player and coach movement diminishing the importance of bowl games, this year could see more absences than ever before. Still, plenty of prominent players are eager to compete for pride and showcase their talents.</p><p>Keeping track of who's in and who's out is more challenging than ever before. That's what we're here for. Over the next three weeks, we'll provide the necessary information for most of the relevant bowl games, including injuries, opt-outs, spread insights, and more.</p><p>In addition to the playoff games (which we'll cover in separate previews), there are 35 bowl matchups this season. We'll provide key betting info for at least 25 of them, so check back here throughout for all the information you need!</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><blockquote><p>👉 <strong><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3422503">Find the entire bowl schedule and odds on theScore bet here</a></strong></p></blockquote><h2>Wednesday, Dec. 24</h2><h3><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf%2Fevent%2Fcb2f8694-a5cf-4d6f-999f-a5599a61e3fa&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3422503">Hawaii Bowl</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Game 5 (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-v5IIz" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/v5IIz/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="126" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p><em>Game time: 8 p.m.</em></p><p><strong>What to know:</strong></p><ul>
<li>Cal head coach Justin Wilcox was fired at the end of the season, so offensive coordinator Nick Rolovich will serve as the interim for the bowl.</li>
<li>Cal will have some defensive opt-outs, but its quarterback and other healthy offensive personnel are expected to play.</li>
<li>This is essentially a home game for Hawaii, which finished 8-4 and in fifth place in the Mountain West.</li>
<li>Jackson Harris, Hawaii's leading receiver, entered the transfer portal.</li>
<li>Cal finished 7-5 in a more difficult conference, so, notably, Hawaii is a slight favorite in its home state. </li>
</ul><h2>Saturday Dec. 27</h2><h3>Military Bowl (Maryland)</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Game 5 (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-0NLt0" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/0NLt0/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="127" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p><em>Game time: 11 a.m.</em></p><p><strong>What to know:</strong></p><ul>
<li>Pittsburgh had a successful season, finishing 8-4 and 6-2 in the ACC. East Carolina finished 8-4 in the weaker AAC.</li>
<li>Pitt would be a slight favorite with both teams at full strength, but the coaching and player absences for East Carolina have Pitt entering as a huge favorite.</li>
<li>Both of East Carolina's offensive and defensive coordinators accepted jobs with other programs.</li>
<li>East Carolina starting quarterback Katin Houser opted out of the bowl, along with a tight end, a wide receiver, and an offensive lineman. Their offense won't be the same as it was during the regular season.</li>
<li>Pitt had a couple of players opt out, but most of their key players will play.</li>
</ul><h3>Pinstripe Bowl (New York City)</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Game 5 (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-gZ3tF" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/gZ3tF/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="119" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p><em>Game time: 12 p.m.</em></p><p><strong>What to know:</strong></p><ul>
<li>First, let's acknowledge that both of these teams were ranked in the top five in the preseason and are playing each other in the Pinstripe Bowl. What a fall from grace.</li>
<li>With that out of the way, these teams have many opt-outs to key personnel, as players declared for the NFL draft or entered the transfer portal.</li>
<li>James Franklin was fired midseason, leading to Terry Smith taking over as the interim head coach. Following the regular season finale, Penn State hired Matt Campbell from Iowa State. However, he won't coach in the bowl game.</li>
<li>Penn State has had various players on both sides of the ball opt out, but the most notable is star running back Nicholas Singleton, who declared for the draft.</li>
<li>Twenty-seven players are expected to miss the bowl game for Clemson, including eight starters, according to head coach Dabo Swinney. Quarterback Cade Klubnik is expected to play.</li>
<li>Clemson has won a postseason game in 14 straight seasons, an FBS record.</li>
</ul><h3>Fenway Bowl (Boston)</h3><div> </div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Game 5 (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-Dctdh" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/Dctdh/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="127" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p><em>Game time: 2:15 p.m.</em></p><p><strong>What to know:</strong></p><ul>
<li>After a successful 9-3 campaign, UConn had many players enter the transfer portal following head coach Jim Mora's departure for Colorado State.</li>
<li>UConn will be without quarterback Joe Fagnano and many offensive linemen. </li>
<li>Army is dealing with fewer opt-outs, and none to its key players. That's why Army is a significant favorite. </li>
</ul><h3>Pop-Tarts Bowl (Orlando)</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Game 5 (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-jzrzd" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/jzrzd/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="127" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p><em>Game time: 3:30 p.m.</em></p><p><strong>What to know:</strong></p><ul>
<li>BYU had a legitimate chance to earn a playoff appearance after finishing 11-2 with its only two losses to No. 4 Texas Tech. </li>
<li>It appears that practically all of BYU's significant contributors will play in the bowl game. </li>
<li>Georgia Tech finished 9-3 in the ACC but has had opt-outs on both sides of the ball. </li>
<li>However, quarterback Haynes King will play. </li>
<li>Georgia Tech's offensive coordinator left for the same role with Florida. </li>
</ul><h3>Gator Bowl (Jacksonville)</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Game 5 (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-cO5ro" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/cO5ro/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="127" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p><em>Game time: 7:30 p.m.</em></p><p><strong>What to know:</strong></p><ul>
<li>Missouri starting quarterback Beau Pribula won't play in the game, meaning Matt Zollers will start. He started three games and totaled over 400 passing yards during the regular season.</li>
<li>Two receivers also opted out. Other than that, Missouri isn't expecting too many opt-outs on its roster.</li>
<li>Missouri went 8-4 and 4-4 in the SEC.</li>
<li>Virginia, which finished the season 10-3 and would've been in the College Football Playoff if it won the ACC title game as a favorite, is dealing with some injuries and is expected to have a few opt-outs.</li>
</ul><h3>Texas Bowl (Houston)</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Game 5 (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-SDstg" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/SDstg/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="119" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p><em>Game time: 9:15 p.m.</em></p><p><strong>What to know:</strong></p><ul>
<li>As Lane Kiffin builds out his roster, LSU will look very different in the bowl game than it did during the regular season. The majority of LSU's snaps on both sides of the ball will go to backups as the Tigers deal with various injuries, opt-outs, and transfer exits.</li>
<li>That, and the fact that this is essentially a home game for Houston, explains why the Cougars are favored.</li>
<li>LSU quarterback Garrett Nussmeier didn't play in LSU's last few games and won't play in the bowl game.</li>
<li>Houston had a few players opt out, but most of its roster will suit up, including quarterback Connner Weigman.</li>
<li>Houston finished the season 9-3 overall and 6-3 in the Big 12.</li>
</ul><div>
<p><em>US: Must be 21+. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER; Hope is here. Call <a href="tel:8003275050">(800)-327-5050</a> or visit <a href="http://gamblinghelplinema.org/">gamblinghelplinema.org</a> for 24/7 support (MA); Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY).</em></p>
<p><em>ON: Please play responsibly. 19+. ON only. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call ConnexOntario 24/7 at <a href="tel:18665312600">1-866-531-2600</a>. Text us at 247247 or chat with us at <a href="http://www.connexontario.ca/">www.connexontario.ca</a>.</em></p>
</div>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/33707359/related

Betting guide to bowl season

Whenever Saturday games appear on the NFL schedule, you know we're coming down the stretch run of...

<p>Whenever Saturday games appear on the NFL schedule, you know we're coming down the stretch run of the season. Let's finish the final three weeks strong on our prop bets, especially after a winning Week 15.</p><blockquote><p>👉 <strong><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3429436">Check out a full selection of player props on theScore Bet here</a></strong></p></blockquote><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796841/player_props-Blue.jpg?ts=1754582787" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796841/player_props-Blue.jpg?ts=1754582787 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796841/player_props-Blue.jpg?ts=1754582787 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796841/player_props-Blue.jpg?ts=1754582787 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796841/player_props-Blue.jpg?ts=1754582787 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796841/player_props-Blue.jpg?ts=1754582787 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution"></span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Tampa Bay Buccaneers (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-T3hSJ" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/T3hSJ/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="99" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><h3>🏈 <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=23fc9fcc-65f9-40f7-8f03-88ef8becdc22&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=41&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=21&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fevent%2Fd03c8bf7-2363-445f-b38d-cbf7ccfbce5b&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3429436">Bet: Over 59.5 receiving yards</a>
</h3><p>Evans returned from a nearly two-month absence and immediately regained his chemistry with Baker Mayfield. Evans recorded six catches for 132 yards, and the Buccaneers produced their highest point total in four weeks. The defense has been a disaster for Tampa Bay, but its offense still relies on Mayfield's arm. There should be plenty of opportunities to find Evans against the Panthers' average passing defense.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="New Orleans Saints (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-AmRmg" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/AmRmg/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="99" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><h3>🏈 <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=b3887925-5122-47c3-b9f7-a7c9624803d3&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=2&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=1&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fevent%2Fac61f3ec-3073-4cb8-ab79-6e80b8a302c8&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3429436">Bet: Over 224.5 passing yards</a>
</h3><p>The Saints might have found something in Shough. Turnovers are an issue, but the rookie's arm talent is impressive. He's thrown for at least 225 yards in four of his last five starts. The Jets have a solid passing defense, but they just allowed 48 points and 330 passing yards to Trevor Lawrence. New York's priority is obtaining a higher draft pick, not winning games.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Miami Dolphins (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-P94vq" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/P94vq/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="99" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><h3>🏈 <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=937fe75f-c006-4135-9f31-e004c0508bf9&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=43&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=23&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fevent%2Fd1f472b0-f4cf-487a-b933-ff1177035409&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3429436">Bet: Under 54.5 receiving yards</a>
</h3><p>Do we really think Quinn Ewers will successfully move the ball down the field in his debut? Probably not. Benching Tua Tagovailoa was the right move, but that doesn't mean an upgrade is coming under center. Waddle hasn't reached 55 receiving yards in his last four games. Although the Bengals' passing defense is abysmal, I wouldn't expect a Waddle breakout to happen in a week when the playbook will likely be limited for a rookie quarterback.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Dallas Cowboys (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-B9h6Y" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/B9h6Y/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="99" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><h3>🏈 <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=c150564c-76d3-4926-852a-f3635fd37cf0&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=2&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=1&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fevent%2Fe9bc4dfe-5593-491b-9407-30e704b96fdf&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3429436">Bet: Over 35.5 pass attempts</a>
</h3><p>The Cowboys' offense is predicated on Prescott's arm carrying them throughout drives. He's attempted at least 36 passes in five of his last six games. The Chargers have an elite defense, but quarterbacks have had success throwing it over the top in recent games. This is a must-win contest for Dallas to keep its division title hopes alive (they also need the Eagles to lose Saturday), so look for the Cowboys to go down letting Prescott sling it.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Detroit Lions" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-X1ebQ" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/X1ebQ/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="99" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><h3>🏈 <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=4d3289ca-8321-4fde-9a38-13e7bd2c64b9&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=21&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=11&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fevent%2Fc182bfe1-97b3-4885-a131-73e63a2e4b96&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3429436">Bet: Over 69.5 receiving yards</a>
</h3><p>Williams is talented enough to be the first option in Detroit's passing attack but benefits from the reduced attention of a second option because he lines up alongside Amon-Ra St. Brown. That leads to a ton of targets and receptions for Williams, whom Jared Goff trusts. Williams has recorded at least 88 receiving yards in his last five games. There will be plenty of opportunities for the Lions' wideouts against the Steelers' sixth-worst passing defense.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Denver Broncos (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-jRp7B" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/jRp7B/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="99" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><h3>🏈 <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=a90d4c32-c581-4a6a-95d1-c5661773c429&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=11&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=6&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fevent%2F8c50c5a2-5d49-42f3-8f4f-e1f4515db5f8&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3429436">Bet: Under 52.5 rushing yards</a>
</h3><p>The Broncos boosted Harvey's workload over the last month, but he's only rushed for more than 4 yards per carry once over the previous four games. This Sunday, Harvey and the Broncos' offensive line have their toughest test yet against the Jaguars, who allow the fewest rushing yards per game in the NFL.</p><p><em>US: Must be 21+. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER; Hope is here. Call <a href="tel:8003275050">(800)-327-5050</a> or visit <a href="http://gamblinghelplinema.org/">gamblinghelplinema.org</a> for 24/7 support (MA); Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY).</em></p><p><em>ON: Please play responsibly. 19+. ON only. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call ConnexOntario 24/7 at <a href="tel:18665312600">1-866-531-2600</a>. Text us at 247247 or chat with us at <a href="http://www.connexontario.ca/">www.connexontario.ca</a>.</em></p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/33795739/related

NFL Week 16 Prop Party: How to back Prescott in crucial game

If it feels like it's been weeks since the conference championships, you're not alone. The Lane K...

<p>If it feels like it's been weeks since the conference championships, you're not alone. The Lane Kiffin and Sherrone Moore coaching stories have dominated the recent college football conversation. However, it's finally time for meaningful games as the 12-team College Football Playoff kicks off Friday night.</p><p>Indiana, Ohio State, Georgia, and Texas Tech earned automatic byes to the quarterfinals as the four highest seeds. The remaining eight squads have to battle it out to get there. Let's dive into our preview and picks for the four games this weekend.</p><blockquote><p>🏈 <strong><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3428415">Full College Football Playoff odds can be found on theScore Bet here</a></strong></p></blockquote><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/800134/Game_Picks-Red.jpg?ts=1757097330" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/800134/Game_Picks-Red.jpg?ts=1757097330 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/800134/Game_Picks-Red.jpg?ts=1757097330 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/800134/Game_Picks-Red.jpg?ts=1757097330 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/800134/Game_Picks-Red.jpg?ts=1757097330 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/800134/Game_Picks-Red.jpg?ts=1757097330 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution"></span></figcaption></figure><h3>Saturday, Dec. 20</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Game 5 (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-h6w4V" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/h6w4V/3/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="126" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p><em>Game time: 12 p.m.</em></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>🏈 <a href="http://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=3629e0e4-dbfd-4cb7-a3dd-2fd28e9430c8&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=43&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=23&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3428415">Pick: Miami (+3.5)</a>
</h3><p>Texas A&amp;M's offensive and defensive coordinators accepted jobs elsewhere but will remain on staff to coach the playoffs. Will they be completely focused on preparing for Miami while recruiting players for their new programs? That could be an advantage for the Hurricanes.</p><p>Miami is loaded with future NFL players on both sides of the ball. The key matchup is Miami's incredible offensive line against Texas A&amp;M's lethal pass rush. When Carson Beck is delivering passes in a clean pocket and can find a rhythm, he looks like a first-rounder. When he's off-platform in a wonky pocket, he's prone to turnovers and doesn't even look like an FBS starter. I trust the Hurricanes' line to hold up and provide Beck enough time to deliver the ball to Malachi Toney, one of the nation's most explosive playmakers.</p><p>Miami has two brutal losses, but its talent is undeniable. Despite playing in the SEC, Texas A&amp;M had a particularly favorable schedule and then looked putrid in its season finale against Texas. The Aggies are slightly overrated, so let's back Miami to at least keep it within a field goal.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Game 5 (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-GwERQ" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/GwERQ/2/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="126" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p><em>Game time: 3:30 p.m.</em></p><h3>🏈 <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=93ae09ed-7cc3-4c56-8b43-1d26ac4d960f&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=41&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=21&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3428415">Pick: Ole Miss (-17.5)</a>
</h3><p>We've already seen how this plays out. When Ole Miss and Tulane met Sept. 20, the Rebels dominated the Green Wave in a 45-10 win. The talent and athleticism discrepancy was evident from the opening kickoff. Tulane allowed 548 yards, including 307 passing yards and 112 rushing yards to quarterback Trinidad Chambliss. Ole Miss' defense has been inconsistent, but it held Tulane's offense to 104 passing yards.</p><p>The argument against Ole Miss is that it's without head coach Lane Kiffin, who controversially left for the same role at LSU. But the rest of the program's offensive and defensive staff will coach in the playoffs, and they've had weeks to prepare for Kiffin's absence. Tulane's coach also left for a better job when he accepted the Florida opening. The difference is Jon Sumrall will coach the Green Wave in the playoff while also recruiting for Florida and assembling his staff in Gainesville.</p><p>No matter what Sumrall says, it's impossible to fully focus on the upcoming playoff game while balancing both gigs. That puts Tulane, which is already the significantly worse team, at an even greater disadvantage.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Game 5 (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-jPaQb" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/jPaQb/2/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="126" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p><em>Game time: 7:30 p.m.</em></p><h3>🏈 <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=697cc498-1535-435c-ac1a-36b04beac938&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=41&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=21&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3428415">Pick: Oregon (-21.5)</a>
</h3><p>This is the largest spread in the two-year history of the 12-team playoff, and it might not be large enough. James Madison is a great story, but it doesn't belong on this stage. Although the Dukes finished the year 12-1, their lone loss was to the only major conference opponent they faced - and Louisville, which finished 4-4 in the ACC, defeated them by two touchdowns.</p><p>The talent gap between power conference teams and the rest of the sport is as wide as it's ever been, since a program like Oregon can dish out more money to its backups than a school like James Madison can offer its stars.</p><p>Oregon's only loss was to No. 1 Indiana. The Ducks handled business otherwise, including dominating lower-level opponents. They went 8-4 against the spread this season. Furthermore, favorites of more than a touchdown went 4-1 against the spread in last year's inaugural 12-team playoff. Don't fall for the underdog trap when one team is significantly better, incredibly well-coached, and has ample time to prepare.</p><h3>Friday, Dec. 19</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Game 5 (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-KqoBR" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/KqoBR/3/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="127" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p><em>Game time: 8 p.m. ET</em></p><h3>🏈 <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=30bd816c-89e9-4691-8675-a0b942740970&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=41&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=21&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3428415">Pick: Alabama (+1.5)</a>
</h3><p>When these teams met in November, Oklahoma defeated Alabama 23-21. Despite the loss, Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson threw for 326 yards. However, the Crimson Tide's offense has regressed, losing two of its last four games and limping into the College Football Playoff. I'm hoping a layoff with extra practices can help re-establish its rhythm.</p><p>Simpson's had an up-and-down season, but the Crimson Tide still own a top-25 passing attack. While Oklahoma has a ferocious defense, particularly on the line of scrimmage, it's struggled against high-octane passing teams, including Ole Miss and Tennessee. Alabama's offense had success against Oklahoma in the first matchup, but turnovers - an interception and two fumbles - derailed its drives. I don't expect the Crimson Tide's offense to turn the ball over three times again. Meanwhile, the Sooners have the SEC's fifth-worst scoring offense. If Alabama can reach 24 points, Oklahoma won't keep pace.</p><p><em>US: Must be 21+. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER; Hope is here. Call <a href="tel:8003275050">(800)-327-5050</a> or visit <a href="http://gamblinghelplinema.org/">gamblinghelplinema.org</a> for 24/7 support (MA); Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY).</em></p><p><em>ON: Please play responsibly. 19+. ON only. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call ConnexOntario 24/7 at <a href="tel:18665312600">1-866-531-2600</a>. Text us at 247247 or chat with us at <a href="http://www.connexontario.ca/">www.connexontario.ca</a>.</em></p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/33779536/related

CFP 1st-round bets: Backing Miami as underdogs, plus 2 big favorites

Now that college football's regular season is over, it's that time of year when the NFL stakes it...

<p>Now that college football's regular season is over, it's that time of year when the NFL stakes its claim to Saturdays. Week 16 features two division rivalry matchups. First, the Eagles face the Commanders, followed by an intriguing Bears versus Packers showdown with the NFC North up for grabs.</p><p>Here are our picks against the spread, favorite touchdown scorer bets, and player props to target.</p><blockquote><p><strong>👉 <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3429433">Check out all of the Week 16 lines available on theScore Bet here</a></strong></p></blockquote><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796824/Game_Picks-Orange.jpg?ts=1754581818" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796824/Game_Picks-Orange.jpg?ts=1754581818 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796824/Game_Picks-Orange.jpg?ts=1754581818 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796824/Game_Picks-Orange.jpg?ts=1754581818 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796824/Game_Picks-Orange.jpg?ts=1754581818 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796824/Game_Picks-Orange.jpg?ts=1754581818 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution"></span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Game 5 (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-5jN8s" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/5jN8s/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="126" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><h3>🏈 <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=b075bc53-3c41-4d84-8c71-21cd6fd5c11e&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=41&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=21&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3429433">Pick: Commanders (+6.5)</a>
</h3><p>The Eagles crushed the lowly Raiders 31-0 last week, capitalizing on a perfect get-right spot to snap their three-game losing streak. But don't forget how horrible Philly looked for all of November.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Scoring 31 on the Raiders at home isn't anything to brag about, nor is shutting out a Kenny Pickett-led offense. The Eagles aren't very far removed from averaging 16.2 points over a five-game stretch, and it's tough to cover 6.5 points with a struggling offense.</p><p>The Commanders are not a good football team, but at least they have clarity at quarterback now that Jayden Daniels is shut down for the season. Marcus Mariota can do exactly what Kliff Kingsbury asks in this offense, and Terry McLaurin's presence has made a huge difference.</p><p>I don't expect the Commanders to win, but getting 6.5 points at home in a divisional game is too many points to pass up, especially when I'm not confident the Eagles will score much more than 20 points.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Game 5 (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-QVHhW" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/QVHhW/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="126" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><h3>🏈 <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=46a83fa3-8e31-4890-bc1a-a6ba6e4fc4c3&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=9&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=5&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3429433">Pick: Packers (+1.5)</a>
</h3><p>The Packers and Bears met two weeks ago, when the Packers closed as 7.5-point favorites at home. Green Bay won 28-21 but has since lost Micah Parsons for the season with a torn ACL.</p><p>Let's say the correct spread for that first meeting was the Packers as 7-point favorites. When you factor in home-field advantage (roughly three points for a location switch between the same teams), that suggests the spread for this week's game should be the Packers as 4-point favorites.</p><p>However, the betting market clearly believes Parsons' absence is worth 5.5 points, which gets us the Bears as 1.5-point favorites. That seems like too drastic a shift for a defensive player. Elite quarterbacks are typically the only players who can factor that heavily into a spread. Parsons is obviously a difference-maker on defense, but this line movement seems like an overreaction.</p><p>I will happily back the Packers on the road as slight underdogs, since I believe the line should be closer to Packers (-3). </p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/805595/Touchdown_Scorers-Orange.jpg?ts=1760472787" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/805595/Touchdown_Scorers-Orange.jpg?ts=1760472787 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/805595/Touchdown_Scorers-Orange.jpg?ts=1760472787 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/805595/Touchdown_Scorers-Orange.jpg?ts=1760472787 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/805595/Touchdown_Scorers-Orange.jpg?ts=1760472787 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/805595/Touchdown_Scorers-Orange.jpg?ts=1760472787 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution"></span></figcaption></figure><p><em>NFL news editor Brenden Deeg is our "Anytime TD Guy," providing touchdown scorer props all season long.</em></p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Chicago Bears (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-g4axF" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/g4axF/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="99" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><h3>🙌 <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=56371682-96de-4759-aeb0-14f40ae61bb0&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=9&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=4&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fevent%2F7c1a4c87-e8b2-4cee-adf8-625d1f0cf98d&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3429433">Bet: Anytime TD (+125)</a>
</h3><p>Chicago has serious injury issues at wide receiver, with Rome Odunze and Luther Burden III missing practice this week. Even if one of them plays, the Bears will rely heavily on Moore. He has four touchdowns in his last four games and leads Chicago in red-zone routes run and targets since Nov. 15.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Green Bay Packers (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-QWqBJ" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/QWqBJ/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="99" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><h3>🙌 <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=a78a5675-ed89-4293-bb16-b4d1131c6126&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=21&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=4&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fevent%2F7c1a4c87-e8b2-4cee-adf8-625d1f0cf98d&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3429433">Bet: Anytime TD (+425)</a>
</h3><p>We’ll take a swing on Green Bay's side and go with a long-shot bet. Musgrave is no Tucker Kraft, but he’s been playing well and is coming off his most productive game of the season, recording six targets and 52 receiving yards. With so much uncertainty at wide receiver for the Packers due to injuries, Musgrave should be heavily involved in their offensive game plan.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Philadelphia Eagles (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-mmFjd" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/mmFjd/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="99" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><h3>🙌 <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=3ac0e3a4-1dae-4558-b38f-838741820be4&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=57&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=20&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fevent%2F5797f286-d1b5-4080-9250-917ef9d3a2bb&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3429433">Bet: Anytime TD (+185)</a>
</h3><p>Goedert had two touchdowns last week and would've had a third if he hadn't dropped a wide-open score. He leads Philadelphia in red-zone targets, receptions, receiving yards, and touchdowns this season. Goedert has a great matchup Saturday against a Commanders defense that's allowed the fifth-most receiving yards and third-most scores to tight ends this season.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Washington Commanders (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-4asbl" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/4asbl/2/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="99" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><h3>🙌 <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=4d05cbc6-68f9-4fc7-90be-ce75e81f285f&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=57&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=20&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fevent%2F5797f286-d1b5-4080-9250-917ef9d3a2bb&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3429433">Bet: Anytime TD (+185)</a>
</h3><p>With Philly allowing the second-fewest touchdowns to wideouts this year, let's target Washington's rushing attack. Rodriguez leads the Commanders in red-zone carries in 2025 and is fully healthy after missing last week's game.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796842/player_props-Orange.jpg?ts=1754582852" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796842/player_props-Orange.jpg?ts=1754582852 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796842/player_props-Orange.jpg?ts=1754582852 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796842/player_props-Orange.jpg?ts=1754582852 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796842/player_props-Orange.jpg?ts=1754582852 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796842/player_props-Orange.jpg?ts=1754582852 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution"></span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Philadelphia Eagles (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-1TPK7" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/1TPK7/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="99" 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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}})}();
</script></figure><h3>🏈 <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=10fffac4-8688-4bfe-849b-0c66d8ccc2a0&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=9&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=5&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fevent%2F5797f286-d1b5-4080-9250-917ef9d3a2bb&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3429433">Bet: Over 74.5 rushing yards</a>
</h3><p>Letting Jalen Hurts sit back in the pocket all day is a recipe for disaster for Philly. The Eagles' offense is at its best when it leans on the run game. Even as their injured offensive line struggles, the Eagles fed Barkley the last two weeks with 22 and 20 carries for 78 and 122 rushing yards, respectively. Against the league's fifth-worst rushing defense, he should get another steady diet of touches.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Philadelphia Eagles (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-w8tex" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/w8tex/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="99" 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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}})}();
</script></figure><h3>🏈 <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=438dc8b4-e543-4f53-bf87-074e92ce4b64&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=43&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=23&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fevent%2F5797f286-d1b5-4080-9250-917ef9d3a2bb&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3429433">Bet: Over 58.5 receiving yards</a>
</h3><p>Although Smith's had a relatively quiet few weeks, he remains the Eagles' best deep-ball threat, and the Commanders' fourth-worst passing defense is susceptible to long shots downfield. Smith is averaging 63.5 receiving yards per game and is due for another big outing.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Chicago Bears (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-f9NPR" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/f9NPR/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="99" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><h3>🏈 <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=e8687b99-04da-4223-918d-c5a99e0002b4&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=41&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=21&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fevent%2F7c1a4c87-e8b2-4cee-adf8-625d1f0cf98d&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3429433">Bet: Over 32.5 pass attempts</a>
</h3><p>Williams has attempted at least 32 passes in seven of his last eight games. The only time he didn't was last week when the Bears decimated the Browns 31-3 (and he still somehow threw 28 passes). Chicago has relied on Williams' arm more throughout the season as he continues to develop as a passer. Without Parsons, the Packers' pass rush won't be as dangerous, which should help Williams throw from a clean pocket.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Green Bay Packers (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-ps0x8" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/ps0x8/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="99" 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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}})}();
</script></figure><h3>🏈 <a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=29f60fef-40d3-4a57-a1fb-b36efe55c2e4&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=21&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=11&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fevent%2F7c1a4c87-e8b2-4cee-adf8-625d1f0cf98d&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3429433">Bet: Over 69.5 rushing yards</a>
</h3><p>Jacobs ran for 86 yards against the Bears two weeks ago. As good as Jordan Love has been, Chicago has a bottom-third rushing defense. The Packers will feed Jacobs and exploit the Bears' run defense. Jacobs has rushed for over 70 yards the last three weeks, and Love's stellar play has opened up the ground game even further.</p><p><em>US: Must be 21+. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER; Hope is here. Call <a href="tel:8003275050">(800)-327-5050</a> or visit <a href="http://gamblinghelplinema.org/">gamblinghelplinema.org</a> for 24/7 support (MA); Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY).</em></p><p><em>ON: Please play responsibly. 19+. ON only. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call ConnexOntario 24/7 at <a href="tel:18665312600">1-866-531-2600</a>. Text us at 247247 or chat with us at <a href="http://www.connexontario.ca/">www.connexontario.ca</a>.</em></p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/33781720/related

NFL Saturday bets: Picks, TD scorers, player props for 2-game slate

The NFL season is a marathon. We've got to ride the highs and find a way through the slumps, whic...

<p>The NFL season is a marathon. We've got to ride the highs and find a way through the slumps, which we're in right now. This Week 15 five-pack of props should get us back on the right track in the season's final month. Let's dive in.</p><blockquote><p>👉 <strong><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3424655">Check out a full selection of player props on theScore Bet here</a></strong></p></blockquote><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796842/player_props-Orange.jpg?ts=1754582852" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796842/player_props-Orange.jpg?ts=1754582852 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796842/player_props-Orange.jpg?ts=1754582852 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796842/player_props-Orange.jpg?ts=1754582852 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796842/player_props-Orange.jpg?ts=1754582852 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796842/player_props-Orange.jpg?ts=1754582852 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution"></span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Cleveland Browns (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-0jh0f" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/0jh0f/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="99" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><h3>🏈 <a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=b125223f-d353-4568-a1fe-4bc498c6564f&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=43&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=23&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fevent%2F415a7037-5c96-4423-9446-8fafc41fa148&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3424655&amp;tags=Props&amp;tags=NFL">Bet: Over 180.5 passing yards</a>
</h3><p>Let's buy the hype. Sanders is averaging 240 passing yards over his last three starts. This number feels too low against the Bears' bottom-12 passing defense. Although Sanders' production might dip as the Browns emphasize running the ball, he's playing at an impressive level and has the ultimate confidence to let it rip.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="New York Giants (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-KMlTj" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/KMlTj/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="99" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><h3>🏈 <a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=674c35b2-1052-4296-9b10-b15e5293db92&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=11&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=6&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fevent%2F72f5a835-7131-455a-9b84-32d078ba3d74&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3424655&amp;tags=NFL&amp;tags=Props">Bet: Over 44.5 rushing yards</a>
</h3><p>The Giants continue to implement a split backfield, but Singletary has recently emerged as the featured back alongside Tyrone Tracy. Over the past three contests, Singletary has averaged 53 yards on 14 carries per game. New York will focus on running the ball against the Commanders' fourth-worst rushing defense, leading to plenty of opportunities for Singletary.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Seattle Seahawks (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-bzBAS" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/bzBAS/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="99" 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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}})}();
</script></figure><h3>🏈 <a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=137c51f1-2c68-449e-b607-311bf4cf68d7&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=9&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=5&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fevent%2Fbb0c11af-26a6-4197-bb69-012f567921f2&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3424655&amp;tags=NFL&amp;tags=Props">Bet: Over 6.5 receptions</a>
</h3><p>Smith-Njigba has been a model of consistency. The 23-year-old wideout has recorded at least seven receptions in nine of his 13 games this season and regularly breaks free for over 100 yards. Sam Darnold also constantly looks his way, making Smith-Njigba the NFL's third-most targeted receiver. The Colts own the league's fifth-worst passing defense, which means the Seahawks will throw the ball early and often, and Smith-Njigba should be open.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="New England Patriots (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-2btUK" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/2btUK/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="99" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><h3>🏈 <a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=c3450da5-e35b-483e-a186-5a11a2aabc84&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=9&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=5&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fevent%2Fe42f1946-a731-443e-a842-52095b3bf990&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3424655&amp;tags=NFL&amp;tags=Props">Bet: Over 44.5 rushing yards</a>
</h3><p>Over the last five games, Henderson has accounted for more than 50% of the Patriots' carries - the most on the team. While Rhamondre Stevenson still has a role in the backfield, it's clear New England trusts Henderson, who has rushed for at least 55 yards in his last six contests. There's no reason this line should be this low against a Bills defense allowing the fifth-most rushing yards per game.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Kansas City Chiefs (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-Zpta0" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/Zpta0/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="99" 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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}})}();
</script></figure><h3>🏈 <a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=b6499c8e-ad9f-4bb9-8128-474f2b6e7ec4&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=21&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=11&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fevent%2Fc28a033a-4ab6-4d53-b42a-134b72dea4d5&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3424655&amp;tags=NFL&amp;tags=Props">Bet: Over 34.5 receiving yards</a>
</h3><p>As bad as the Chiefs' offense and Patrick Mahomes have been, Worthy has accumulated at least 55 receiving yards in his last three outings. This matchup is also a bounce-back spot for the Chiefs, as they're desperate to keep their season alive. Although the Chargers have a good defense, the Eagles had a ton of open deep ball opportunities in Los Angeles on Monday night. Philadelphia couldn't connect because of its own wrongdoing. If Mahomes can take advantage downfield, Worthy stands to benefit.</p><p><em>US: Must be 21+. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER; Hope is here. Call <a href="tel:8003275050">(800)-327-5050</a> or visit <a href="http://gamblinghelplinema.org/">gamblinghelplinema.org</a> for 24/7 support (MA); Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY).</em></p><p><em>ON: Please play responsibly. 19+. ON only. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call ConnexOntario 24/7 at <a href="tel:18665312600">1-866-531-2600</a>. Text us at 247247 or chat with us at <a href="http://www.connexontario.ca/">www.connexontario.ca</a>.</em></p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/33713144/related

NFL Week 15 Prop Party: Keep riding the Sanders train

The Week 6 AP Poll marks a critical juncture for college basketball fans, offering an early indic...

<p>The Week 6 AP Poll marks a critical juncture for college basketball fans, offering an early indicator of which teams might be legitimate national title contenders. In one of the most bizarre streaks in sports, the last 21 March Madness champions - and 35 of the past 36 - were ranked in the top 12 of the Week 6 AP Poll. Based on this trend, here are the programs with a chance to win:</p><ol>
<li>Arizona</li>
<li>Michigan</li>
<li>Duke</li>
<li>Iowa State</li>
<li>UConn</li>
<li>Purdue</li>
<li>Houston</li>
<li>Gonzaga</li>
<li>Michigan State</li>
<li>BYU</li>
<li>Louisville</li>
<li>Alabama</li>
</ol><p>While one of those teams will likely emerge as champion, the rankings don't completely align with the favorites on <a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3422465&amp;tags=CBB&amp;tags=NCAAB">theScore Bet</a>. Let's look at the oddsboard and break down several contenders and pretenders.</p><h3><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3422465&amp;tags=CBB&amp;tags=NCAAB">National title odds</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Team</th>
<th>Odds</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Michigan</td>
<td>+400</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Duke</td>
<td>+1000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>UConn</td>
<td>+1000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Purdue</td>
<td>+1200</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Iowa State</td>
<td>+1300</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Arizona</td>
<td>+1300</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Gonzaga</td>
<td>+1500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Houston</td>
<td>+1700</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Louisville</td>
<td>+2200</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Illinois</td>
<td>+2500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Florida</td>
<td>+2500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Michigan State</td>
<td>+2800</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Vanderbilt</td>
<td>+2800</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Alabama</td>
<td>+3000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>BYU</td>
<td>+3300</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kansas</td>
<td>+3300</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>St. John's</td>
<td>+3300</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>North Carolina</td>
<td>+3500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Tennessee</td>
<td>+4000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Arkansas</td>
<td>+4000</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><blockquote><p>🏀<strong> <a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3422465&amp;tags=CBB&amp;tags=NCAAB">You can find full college basketball title odds on theScore Bet here </a></strong></p></blockquote><h2>Contenders</h2><h3><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=85fa89ce-6b3c-4af9-9929-d5c612f7086c&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=5&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=1&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3422465&amp;tags=CBB&amp;tags=futures">Michigan (+400)</a></h3><p>Michigan is 9-0 and decimating opponents by an average margin of 28 points. The Wolverines must have scheduled a weak nonconference slate, right? Think again. They've faced the nation's eighth-most difficult schedule so far, per <a href="https://kenpom.com/index.php?s=RankSOS">KenPom</a>, and beat Gonzaga and Auburn, two top-25 teams, by 40 and 30, respectively.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Yaxel Lendeborg is one of the country's best players, leading a Michigan squad loaded with lethal shooters and impressive depth in the frontcourt and backcourt. With Michigan boasting eight players averaging at least seven points, this balanced roster is built for March.</p><h3><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=fa49daa1-85e7-4ad4-bcb0-84571254b02e&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=11&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=1&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3422465&amp;tags=CBB&amp;tags=futures">UConn (+1000)</a></h3><p>UConn has answered nearly every challenge this season, beating No. 10 BYU, No. 13 Illinois, No. 19 Kansas, and No. 18 Florida. The Huskies' only setback was a four-point loss to No. 1 Arizona. That's not a bad resume entering Big East play, especially since the conference appears weaker than usual this season.</p><p>Alex Karaban and Tarris Reed Jr. create a dangerous frontcourt duo for UConn, while Solo Ball, Silar Demary Jr., and Malachi Smith provide a backcourt spark. After the Huskies' defense ranked outside the top 70 last season, Dan Hurley's emphasis on that end has led them to rise to seventh in the defensive rankings. UConn's perfect blend of returners and transfers has them back in the title hunt.</p><h3><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=6a230523-8911-4b97-b319-c326bae65b8f&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=14&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=1&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3422465&amp;tags=CBB&amp;tags=futures">Iowa State (+1300)</a></h3><p>Iowa State is the only team ranked in the top six for both offense and defense. The Cyclones have shown their strength on both sides, notably picking up a one-point victory over St. John's and a 23-point win over Purdue.</p><p>They also have the nation's third-best 3-point percentage and a balanced attack with Tamin Lipsey running the show, while Milan Momcilovic and Joshua Jefferson provide versatile scoring. No team has a better balance on both ends than Iowa State, making it worthy of a ticket.</p><h3><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=7d4e9fd6-98ea-4dca-9d04-210dc78765fa&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=29&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=1&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3422465&amp;tags=CBB&amp;tags=futures">Michigan State (+2800)</a></h3><p>Featuring a top-five defense and a top-10 rebounding unit, this is a classic Tom Izzo squad. The experienced Spartans rely on physicality and defensive prowess to wear down opponents, which has led to wins over Arkansas, Kentucky, and North Carolina this season. Their lone loss came against Duke last weekend, but Izzo's teams typically improve as the year progresses, peaking as the regular season concludes.</p><p>Jeremy Fears is one of the nation's best point guards, excelling as a true pass-first floor general who organizes the offense. He's averaging 9.8 assists, the most in the country, and has the championship DNA to help Michigan State make a run. The Spartans are worth a bet now before this price drops as they roll through Big Ten play.</p><h2>Pretenders</h2><h3><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=e55c9f01-76c4-44d2-903c-404eca8f0ddc&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=11&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=1&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3422465&amp;tags=CBB&amp;tags=futures">Duke (+1000)</a></h3><p>You might be shocked to see 10-0 Duke on the pretenders list with wins over Kansas, Arkansas, Florida, and Michigan State. The program also rosters a National Player of the Year candidate in Cam Boozer. But here's the concern: seven of the Blue Devils' rotation players are either freshmen or sophomores. As the average age of college players has increased, winning a title with inexperience has become much harder. Duke had three freshmen on last season's squad who were ultimately drafted in the top 10, and that Blue Devils team was more talented than this one. And despite the school's run to the Final Four in the previous campaign, inexperience eventually led to a historic collapse.</p><p>Duke is talented enough to win a ton of games and earn a top seed in the tournament, but don't just fall in line with the public here. Duke has received the third-most national title tickets on theScore Bet behind Michigan and Purdue.</p><h3><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=863592ea-404d-4106-94f5-c8801fc23b0a&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=34&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=1&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3422465&amp;tags=CBB&amp;tags=futures">Kansas (+3300)</a></h3><p>Kansas shouldn't even qualify as a contender because it's outside the top 12 of this week's AP Poll. However, with potential No. 1 overall pick Darryn Peterson returning this weekend after a month-long absence, Kansas' losses against Duke and UConn shouldn't be held against the Jayhawks.</p><p>Still, Kansas doesn't have enough beyond Peterson to be considered a contender. It can compete for a Big 12 title, but its depth and offensive arsenal - currently ranked outside the top 40 - doesn't compare to other top contenders.</p><h3><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=2376f0bf-f106-4c23-aa0d-1abb6adf563d&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=26&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=1&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3422465&amp;tags=CBB&amp;tags=futures">Florida (+2500)</a></h3><p>Florida also isn't in the top 12 of this week's AP Poll, but it has one of the 12 best odds to win the title. The Gators' 5-4 record shouldn't concern anyone, as three of those losses came against Arizona, Duke, and UConn - all top-five teams. Although they're talented enough to compete in the SEC, the defending champs lost too many reliable guards to make a title run.</p><p>Thomas Haugh has emerged as the centerpiece of Florida's offense, showcasing his talent as a skilled big man. However, Walter Clayton Jr., Will Richard, and Alijah Martin are all gone, and the trio combined to average 46 points per game last season for the Gators. This year, the team's top three scoring guards - Boogie Fland, Xaivian Lee, and Urban Klavzar - are contributing a combined 30.8 points per contest. Florida plays through its bigs, but elite guard play is essential in March.</p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports writer at theScore. </em><em>You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more basketball coverage.</em></p><p><em>US: Must be 21+. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER; Hope is here. Call <a href="tel:8003275050">(800)-327-5050</a> or visit <a href="http://gamblinghelplinema.org/">gamblinghelplinema.org</a> for 24/7 support (MA); Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY).</em></p><p><em>ON: Please play responsibly. 19+. ON only. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call ConnexOntario 24/7 at <a href="tel:18665312600">1-866-531-2600</a>. Text us at 247247 or chat with us at <a href="http://www.connexontario.ca/">www.connexontario.ca</a>.</em></p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/33694587/related

CBB contenders and pretenders: Where do UConn, Florida, Duke land?

While we can litigate the College Football Playoff bracket for days about who got screwed (honest...

<p>While we can litigate the College Football Playoff bracket for days about who got screwed (honestly, nobody) or whether the system is broken (it might be), the field of 12 is officially set. Instead of debating Notre Dame's exclusion, let's dive into the playoff odds for the 12 CFP teams and provide immediate reactions to the first-round matchups and spreads.</p><h3><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3421587&amp;tags=CFP&amp;tags=NCAAF">National title odds</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Seed</th>
<th>Team</th>
<th>Odds</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>1</td>
<td>Indiana</td>
<td>+275</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2</td>
<td>Ohio State</td>
<td>+250</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3</td>
<td>Georgia</td>
<td>+450</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>4</td>
<td>Texas Tech</td>
<td>+900</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>5</td>
<td>Oregon</td>
<td>+750</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>6</td>
<td>Ole Miss</td>
<td>+3000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>7</td>
<td>Texas A&amp;M</td>
<td>+1600</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>8</td>
<td>Oklahoma</td>
<td>+5000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>9</td>
<td>Alabama</td>
<td>+2000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>10</td>
<td>Miami</td>
<td>+1800</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>11</td>
<td>Tulane</td>
<td>+5000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>12</td>
<td>James Madison</td>
<td>+4000</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><blockquote><p>👉 <a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3421587&amp;tags=CFP&amp;tags=NCAAF">You can find full national title odds on theScore Bet here</a></p></blockquote><p>Although Indiana defeated Ohio State in the Big Ten championship, the Buckeyes remain the favorite to win the big one - by a narrow margin.</p><p>Indiana, Ohio State, Georgia, and Texas Tech earned byes as the top four seeds, while the first-round games featuring seeds 5-12 will be played Dec. 19-20.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Buckeyes have garnered the most bets and handle (money wagered) to win the national title on <a href="http://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3421587&amp;tags=CFP&amp;tags=NCAAF">theScore Bet</a> since the start of the season and since the official bracket was revealed Sunday morning. The Hoosiers, meanwhile, have received the second-most bets since the beginning of the season. But Georgia's SEC championship win over Alabama impressed bettors, as the Bulldogs have been the second-most popular national title ticket following the bracket's release.</p><blockquote><p>👉 <a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3421587&amp;tags=CFP&amp;tags=NCAAF">You can find game spreads and totals on theScore Bet here</a></p></blockquote><h3><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3421587&amp;tags=CFP&amp;tags=NCAAF">First-round matchups</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Game 5 (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-0wXnr" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/0wXnr/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="126" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p>Despite the Crimson Tide losing to the Sooners 23-21 on Nov. 15, they're a slight road favorite. After falling to Florida State in its season opener, Alabama recovered quickly and surged midseason to build a playoff-worthy resume but eventually slipped down the stretch.</p><p>The Tide barely beat a weak Auburn squad and then got demolished by Georgia in Saturday's SEC championship. They've dealt with injuries to starters over the last month, so, presumably, this two-week break should allow them to get healthier. The 1.5-point spread, the lowest of the first-round slate, indicates this is a complete coin flip.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Game 5 (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-h6w4V" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/h6w4V/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="126" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p>Miami's head-to-head win over Notre Dame was the ultimate factor in leaving the Fighting Irish out and putting the Hurricanes in. Ironically, Texas A&amp;M also beat Notre Dame, dropping the team to 0-2 in early September. The Aggies had a particularly easy SEC schedule, but the conference's mediocre and bottom-tier teams are still much better than the ACC's top teams, so it's understandable why they're a 4.5-point home favorite.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Game 5 (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-GwERQ" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/GwERQ/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="126" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p>Neither Ole Miss nor Tulane has to search far for tape on one another. These teams played Sept. 20, when the Rebels annihilated the Green Wave 45-10. That score wasn't a fluke. The massive discrepancy in talent and athleticism was obvious. The current system rewards Group of 5 schools for having remarkable seasons. However, in the NIL era, the gap between the major conferences and the lower ones is as wide as ever, creating potential for massive spreads and blowouts when such opponents are pitted against each other. It won't matter that Ole Miss lost its head coach - at least for the first round.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Game 5 (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-jPaQb" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/jPaQb/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="126" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p>Two Group of 5 schools earning playoff bids is highly unlikely, but the five highest-ranked conference champions receive automatic bids, and this year, that included Tulane and James Madison. Duke shockingly won the ACC<strong> </strong>championship despite finishing the regular season 7-5, leading the selection committee to pick the Green Wave (American Conference) and the Dukes (Sun Belt) over the Blue Devils.</p><p>James Madison's had an impressive season, but Oregon's physicality and pure talent will outclass the Dukes, which is why the spread is nearly three touchdowns. Maybe one day we'll see a huge upset from a Group of 5 school, but I wouldn't count on it happening here, especially not against the Ducks, who have only lost to undefeated Indiana.</p><p><em>US: Must be 21+. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER; Hope is here. Call <a href="tel:8003275050">(800)-327-5050</a> or visit <a href="http://gamblinghelplinema.org/">gamblinghelplinema.org</a> for 24/7 support (MA); Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY).</em></p><p><em>ON: Please play responsibly. 19+. ON only. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call ConnexOntario 24/7 at <a href="tel:18665312600">1-866-531-2600</a>. Text us at 247247 or chat with us at <a href="http://www.connexontario.ca/">www.connexontario.ca</a>.</em></p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/33647695/related

College Football Playoff betting: National title odds and first-round matchups

Some weeks have gone better than others for our prop party, but we're determined to send everyone...

<p>Some weeks have gone better than others for our prop party, but we're determined to send everyone out with a bang in the final weeks of the regular season. We're kicking things off with a six-pack for Sunday's Week 14 slate, including three bets from a highly anticipated Bills-Bengals showdown.</p><blockquote><p>👉 <strong><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3416636&amp;tags=NFL&amp;tags=Props">Check out a full selection of player props on theScore Bet here</a></strong></p></blockquote><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796841/player_props-Blue.jpg?ts=1754582787" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796841/player_props-Blue.jpg?ts=1754582787 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796841/player_props-Blue.jpg?ts=1754582787 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796841/player_props-Blue.jpg?ts=1754582787 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796841/player_props-Blue.jpg?ts=1754582787 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796841/player_props-Blue.jpg?ts=1754582787 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution"></span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Cincinnati Bengals (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-Ukuqz" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/Ukuqz/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="99" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><h3>🏈 <a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=dd3a0d66-7658-403e-bc13-e551114ec622&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=43&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=23&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fevent%2F78df6a3f-7629-48c7-b161-ae876a7f1413&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3416636&amp;tags=NFL&amp;tags=Props">Bet: Under 250.5 passing yards</a>
</h3><p>Burrow's throwing ability and 261-yard performance against the Ravens last week have made this a wildly high number. However, that recent showing came against the NFL's seventh-worst passing defense. The Bills present a different challenge, as they lead the league with just 163 yards allowed per game through the air. Considering Buffalo's weakness is against the run, don't expect the Bengals to rely as much on Burrow's arm.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Cincinnati Bengals (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-XXolH" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/XXolH/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="99" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><h3>🏈 <a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=0e963890-fba9-4973-a601-7576047f9ce2&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=47&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=27&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fevent%2F78df6a3f-7629-48c7-b161-ae876a7f1413&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3416636&amp;tags=Props&amp;tags=NFL">Bet: Over 49.5 rushing yards</a>
</h3><p>Speaking of the Bengals' rushing game, Cincy will utilize Brown heavily against the Bills' struggling run defense, which allows 141.3 rushing yards per game - third-worst in the league. In some ways, this bet ties into the under on Burrow's passing yards.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Buffalo Bills" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-oCoXU" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/oCoXU/4/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="99" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><h3>🏈 <a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=4c003df3-bc32-4225-bc46-92d8fd805fd6&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=43&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=23&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fevent%2F78df6a3f-7629-48c7-b161-ae876a7f1413&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3416636&amp;tags=Props&amp;tags=NFL">Bet: Over 238.5 passing yards</a>
</h3><p>If you're riding these, you're going to spend a ton of time glued to the Bills-Bengals game. Luckily, it's a marquee matchup between AFC foes. Cincinnati owns the league's worst pass defense, giving up 256.8 passing yards per contest. Josh Allen has thrown for at least 250 yards in four of his last five outings and should easily expose the Bengals' pitiful secondary.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Minnesota Vikings (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-sDFaX" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/sDFaX/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="99" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><h3>🏈 <a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=658b1f40-98eb-4f46-b509-ce63505bac2d&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=49&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=29&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fevent%2F1cc4a6b6-cc5b-4c5c-bca2-277534b5b43f&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3416636&amp;tags=Props&amp;tags=NFL">Bet: Under 3.5 receptions</a>
</h3><p>J.J. McCarthy is one of the NFL's least accurate quarterbacks, which hurts the Vikings' entire passing game, especially the receivers. Addison has failed to eclipse three receptions in the four contests he's played with McCarthy. The wideout recorded five receptions last week when McCarthy was out, but the young signal-caller will be back to throw balls into the dirt Sunday.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Los Angeles Rams (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-9WtjI" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/9WtjI/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="99" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><h3>🏈 <a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=7e50bfc4-8cea-4e43-88ab-83585a90d317&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=12&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=7&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fevent%2F38be2648-e32a-4fdb-8b8b-22f314bc464e&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3416636&amp;tags=Props&amp;tags=NFL">Bet: Over 49.5 receiving yards</a>
</h3><p>Adams has topped 50 receiving yards in four of his last five games and is averaging 57.4 yards per contest in 2025. Although the Rams are already a pass-heavy group with plenty of targets to go around, they should further exploit the Cardinals' below-average passing defense on Sunday.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Green Bay Packers (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-ps0x8" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/ps0x8/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="99" 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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}})}();
</script></figure><h3>🏈 <a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=9d31e686-a1dd-4c3a-aaf6-9a8fd7d0d9b3&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=21&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=11&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fevent%2F4d849d5c-ea15-432e-8019-fa3d1578fcfe&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3416636&amp;tags=Props&amp;tags=NFL">Bet: Over 79.5 rushing yards</a>
</h3><p>The Bears allow the fifth-most rushing yards per contest, so expect the Packers to feature Jacobs heavily in their game plan. He's well rested after last Thursday's 83-yard rushing performance and has surpassed 80 yards in three of the previous four games. The 27-year-old is also a more effective rusher at Lambeau Field, averaging 80.8 rushing yards at home compared to 54.5 on the road. Luckily, this divisional matchup is in Green Bay.</p><p><em>US: Must be 21+. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER; Hope is here. Call <a href="tel:8003275050">(800)-327-5050</a> or visit <a href="http://gamblinghelplinema.org/">gamblinghelplinema.org</a> for 24/7 support (MA); Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY).</em></p><p><em>ON: Please play responsibly. 19+. ON only. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call ConnexOntario 24/7 at <a href="tel:18665312600">1-866-531-2600</a>. Text us at 247247 or chat with us at <a href="http://www.connexontario.ca/">www.connexontario.ca</a>.</em></p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/33619602/related

NFL Week 14 Prop Party: Allen, Burrow duel it out in AFC clash

Welcome to NBA Behind the Numbers, a recurring look at noteworthy statistics and trends across th...

<p><em>Welcome to NBA Behind the Numbers, a recurring look at noteworthy statistics and trends across the league, and the impact they're having.</em></p><h2>The Good 👍</h2><h3>Minus-2.8</h3><p><em>Nuggets improving in non-Jokic minutes</em></p><p>Opponents are outscoring the Nuggets by 2.8 points per 100<strong> </strong>possessions when Nikola Jokic is on the bench. Why are we celebrating Denver losing those minutes? Well, because it's a drastic improvement from the last four seasons, when it lost the non-Jokic minutes by 9.3, 8.6, 10.4, and 7.9 points.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>After finishing last campaign with (barely) six trustworthy players in their playoff rotation, the Nuggets prioritized depth this past offseason. By adding Tim Hardaway Jr., Bruce Brown, Jonas Valanciunas, and even undrafted rookie Spencer Jones, head coach David Adelman can now use a deep rotation when healthy.</p><p>Valanciunas replacing Jokic isn't exactly Bill Walton backing up Robert Parish. Still, the 13-year vet is the best relief option Jokic has ever had, keeping Denver afloat at center during the 13 minutes<strong> </strong>the three-time MVP sits. As a result, the Nuggets own the seventh-best bench net rating<strong> </strong>and are off to their best start since 2007 at 16-6, despite dealing with key injuries.</p><p>Denver, boasting the league's top offense, has assembled the strongest roster of Jokic's career - one capable of withstanding his absence and dominating when he's on the floor. The Thunder might be inevitable, but the Nuggets are knocking.</p><h3>5.3</h3><p><em>Heat's pick-and-roll possessions per game</em></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812649/cropped_GettyImages-2244433187.jpg?ts=1764949024" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812649/w220xh124_GettyImages-2244433187.jpg?ts=1764949024 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812649/w320xh180_GettyImages-2244433187.jpg?ts=1764949024 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812649/w640xh360_GettyImages-2244433187.jpg?ts=1764949024 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812649/w768xh432_GettyImages-2244433187.jpg?ts=1764949024 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812649/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2244433187.jpg?ts=1764949024 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Miami averages just 5.3 pick-and-roll ball-handler possessions per game, by far the fewest in the player tracking era (since 2013-14).</p><p>In a pick-and-roll-heavy league, Heat head coach Erik Spoelstra has developed an innovative approach, creating offensive advantages with a fast-paced, unconventional, egalitarian system.</p><p>"If everybody's doing the same thing, you try to find the advantages by doing something else," Spoelstra said in 2024. "The league, this game, constantly evolves. And you're constantly trying to (stay ahead of the curve)."</p><p>Miami hired Noah LaRoche as a consultant this offseason. Widely credited with transforming Memphis' offense into a pick-and-roll averse scheme, LaRoche helped guide the Grizzlies to the league's lowest number of pick-and-roll ball-handler possessions in 2024-25.</p><p>The Heat's drive-and-kick, read-and-react offense thrives on deploying ball-handlers who can consistently beat defenders off the dribble, force defensive breakdowns, and make the proper read. Miami's aggressive approach has the team averaging the second-most drives per game.</p><p>Pushing the tempo and running in transition is the key. After playing with the fourth-slowest pace last season, the Heat are the NBA's fastest team and generate the league's second-most transition points.</p><p>Miami's versatile perimeter players prioritize getting downhill and forcing the defense into rotation without a traditional ball screen. Tyler Herro, the Heat's best player, has traditionally relied on ball screens but has seamlessly fit into the new system since his late-November return.</p><p>Spoelstra has maximized the potential of nearly every player throughout his Hall of Fame career. The Heat currently have 11 players averaging at least 17 minutes per game, showcasing the team's impressive depth. Although playing fast is tiring, Miami is scoring the third-most bench points. Some skeptics wonder whether this style is sustainable - anticipating more ball screens as the season progresses - but for now, the Heat have the 12th-best offense (up from 21st last season), rank ninth in net rating, and hold a 14-9 record.</p><h3>40.7%</h3><p><em>Rockets' historic offensive rebounding rate</em></p><p>The Rockets grab 40.7% of their own missed shots, putting them on track for the highest offensive rebounding rate in NBA history. Their second-most used lineup is also the league's tallest, featuring Amen Thompson (6-foot-7), Kevin Durant (6-foot-11), Jabari Smith Jr. (6-foot-11), Alperen Sengun (6-foot-11), and Steven Adams (6-foot-11).</p><p>Houston owns the NBA's fourth-best offense after placing 12th last season. Adding Durant, an efficient 25-point-per-game scorer, has undoubtedly helped, as he frequently creates something out of nothing on broken plays.</p><p>But more than anything, offensive rebounding is fuelling a half-court offense that still sits outside the top 10, per <a href="https://cleaningtheglass.com/stats/league/context#tab-offense_halfcourt_putbacks">Cleaning the Glass</a>. The Rockets lead the league in second-chance points, frequently turning missed shots into scoring opportunities against scrambled defenses. Impressively, four players on the 15-5 squad are averaging at least two offensive rebounds per game, while Adams leads the league with 4.8.</p><p>Even when Josh Okogie or Reed Sheppard replace Adams in the lineup, Houston prioritizes the offensive glass. The club's aggressive rebounding wears down defenses and creates kick-out opportunities for three-pointers - where the Rockets rank second in accuracy.</p><h2>The Bad 👎</h2><h3>.484</h3><p><em>Lakers' strength of schedule</em></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/809983/cropped_GettyImages-2244268448.jpg?ts=1763179068" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/809983/w220xh124_GettyImages-2244268448.jpg?ts=1763179068 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/809983/w320xh180_GettyImages-2244268448.jpg?ts=1763179068 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/809983/w640xh360_GettyImages-2244268448.jpg?ts=1763179068 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/809983/w768xh432_GettyImages-2244268448.jpg?ts=1763179068 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/809983/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2244268448.jpg?ts=1763179068 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Adam Pantozzi / National Basketball Association / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The Lakers have benefited from the league's sixth-easiest schedule, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/stats/rpi/_/sort/SOS">ESPN</a>, which has propelled their 16-6 start.</p><p>L.A. went 11-2 in November, though it faced only four teams above .500 and went 2-2 against them. It's already played three games in December against winning teams (1-2) and has another five remaining.</p><p>Regression is imminent. While the Lakers are far too talented to fall out of the playoff race, it's unrealistic for them to compete for a top seed in the West.</p><p>Offense isn't their problem. As JJ Redick often notes, Los Angeles employs one of the game's all-time great offensive engines in Luka Doncic, while Austin Reaves is the league's second-most efficient pick-and-roll ball-handler. Together, they form the NBA's highest-scoring duo, and LeBron James' recent return only strengthens their offensive arsenal.</p><p>The problem lies with the defense. Despite playing 14 of their 22 contests against bottom-half offenses, the Lakers still place just 21st defensively. A Doncic-Reaves backcourt exposes a weak point-of-attack defense.</p><p>Los Angeles' defensive shortcomings are clear in the numbers: the club ranks 25th in opponent 3-point percentage<strong> </strong>and 27th in opponent effective field goal percentage, and it also surrenders the seventh-most wide-open threes per game. Excellent rim protection can sometimes mask weak perimeter defense, but the Lakers don't have that either. Opponents are shooting 64.2% at the rim against L.A., putting the team in just the seventh percentile league-wide, per Synergy.</p><p>James, who can only play sufficient defense in short stints, hasn't provided much help. The Lakers have a 122 defensive rating when he's on the floor, second-worst in the NBA. Although the sun is shining in Laker Land to start Doncic's first full season, winter is coming.</p><h3><strong>271</strong></h3><p><em>Games missed by </em>Williamson<em> in his NBA career</em></p><p>Zion Williamson has missed 271 games - 55% of his eligible career contests - and has surpassed 62 appearances in a season just once. After playing 30 games in 2024-25, Williamson has suited up for only 10 of the Pelicans' 23 matchups this campaign before landing on the sidelines indefinitely with an adductor strain. It feels like a generation ago that New Orleans' front office, which has since been fired, celebrated winning the 2019 draft lottery with the exuberance of Mardi Gras on Bourbon Street.</p><p>The talent is obvious when Williamson is active, but seven years later, it's safe to call him a bust. Although Williamson is a diminished asset, it's time for the 3-20 Pelicans to cut ties.</p><h2>The Ugly 🤮</h2><h3>30 </h3><p><em>Clippers' average age this season</em></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/809769/cropped_GettyImages-2246116963.jpg?ts=1763040655" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/809769/w220xh124_GettyImages-2246116963.jpg?ts=1763040655 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/809769/w320xh180_GettyImages-2246116963.jpg?ts=1763040655 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/809769/w640xh360_GettyImages-2246116963.jpg?ts=1763040655 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/809769/w768xh432_GettyImages-2246116963.jpg?ts=1763040655 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/809769/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2246116963.jpg?ts=1763040655 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Sean M. Haffey / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The Intuit Dome, renowned as the NBA's loudest and most energetic arena, could double as a seniors' residence, considering that the Clippers are the league's oldest team with an average age of 30.</p><p>While many clubs emphasized adding youth and athleticism to match the league's rising pace, Los Angeles took a different approach, hoping experience and wisdom would help it run back on defense. Instead, the gamble has backfired.</p><p>Let's check in on some of the Clippers' free-agent signings. Chris Paul was released this week, Bradley Beal is out for the season, and Brook Lopez is unplayable. James Harden is still competing at an All-Star level at age 36, but he can't do it alone. Kawhi Leonard isn't shooting at the rim as much, and there's a better chance he's in street clothes than on the floor when you tune into a Clippers game. Los Angeles traded Norman Powell, a borderline All-Star last season, to the Heat in return for John Collins, a significantly worse player.</p><p>The 6-17 Clippers<strong> </strong>operate at the third-slowest pace, rank sixth-worst in defensive efficiency, and fourth-worst in turnover rate. Compounding their issues, they score the fewest transition points per game and allow the fourth-most points per transition possession, highlighting their struggles to keep up with faster teams.</p><p>The worst part is the Thunder - yes, the 22-1 defending champs - control the Clippers' 2026 first-round pick, which is likely to land in the lottery.</p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports writer at theScore. </em><em>You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more basketball coverage.</em></p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/33614346/related

NBA Behind the Numbers: Clippers' demise, Heat's unconventional offense

The college football regular season is finished, but the College Football Playoff is far from fin...

<p>The college football regular season is finished, but the College Football Playoff is far from finalized. While some teams playing this weekend are already in the dance, others need the automatic bid from winning their conference championships. Let's dive into Saturday's four major conference championship games, along with Friday night's Group of 5 showdown.</p><blockquote><p>👉 <strong><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3416639&amp;tags=CFB&amp;tags=Picks">Check out all conference championship lines on theScore Bet here</a></strong></p></blockquote><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/800134/Game_Picks-Red.jpg?ts=1757097330" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/800134/Game_Picks-Red.jpg?ts=1757097330 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/800134/Game_Picks-Red.jpg?ts=1757097330 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/800134/Game_Picks-Red.jpg?ts=1757097330 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/800134/Game_Picks-Red.jpg?ts=1757097330 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/800134/Game_Picks-Red.jpg?ts=1757097330 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution"></span></figcaption></figure><h3>American Conference championship (Friday night)</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Game 5 (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-28Zkd" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/28Zkd/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="126" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p><em>Game time: 8 p.m.</em></p><h3>🏈 <a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=974d984d-f91a-4fd9-82db-f85752ce4498&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=41&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=21&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3416639&amp;tags=CFB&amp;tags=Picks">Pick: Tulane (+2.5)</a>
</h3><p>The stakes here are simple: The winner (likely) earns a trip to the College Football Playoff as one of the five highest-ranked conference champions.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Tulane is battle-tested with wins over Power 4 opponents Northwestern and Duke. The only time North Texas played a ranked team this year, it lost to South Florida 63-36. The Green Wave's tougher schedule should prepare it for a championship atmosphere. This is also the fourth consecutive year Tulane has made the American Conference Championship. The experienced team deserves the edge.</p><h3>Big 12 championship</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Game 5 (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-4ZKey" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/4ZKey/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="118" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p><em>Game time: 12 p.m.</em></p><h3>🏈 <a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=2af6db64-d450-4f4b-ad2f-257a208cf4ee&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=41&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=21&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=416639&amp;tags=CFB&amp;tags=Picks">Pick: BYU (+12.5)</a>
</h3><p>Texas Tech destroyed BYU 29-7 when these teams met in early November, so the line is justified. But this game matters more for the Cougars. BYU must win to secure a spot in the College Football Playoff, while Texas Tech is in regardless of the result. While the Red Raiders have the talent advantage, that kind of difference in the importance of the outcome does impact on-field performance. I'm not saying BYU will win, but that factor alone should keep it within the number.</p><h3>SEC championship</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Game 5 (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-DeMOR" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/DeMOR/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="126" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p><em>Game time: 4 p.m.</em></p><h3>🏈 <a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=e7b6f5e3-d94a-4532-8a17-aacbcfdb4d73&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=11&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=6&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3416639&amp;tags=CFB&amp;tags=Picks">Pick: Georgia (-2.5)</a>
</h3><p>For whatever reason, Alabama has been Georgia's kryptonite. The Crimson Tide have won three straight and 10 of the last 11 against Georgia. The last two wins came with Kalen DeBoer roaming the sidelines. Kirby Smart is itching to get back on the right side of history against his SEC rival, creating a revenge spot for the Bulldogs.</p><p>Beyond that angle, Georgia is a much better team now than when it lost to Alabama in late September. The Bulldogs have won eight straight, including three over ranked opponents. Georgia's defense has improved, holding ranked Texas and Georgia Tech to 10 and nine points, respectively, while its offense remains balanced. Alabama is also one of the country's best teams, but it lost to Oklahoma in mid-November and nearly lost to Auburn, one of the SEC's worst teams, last week. Give me the Bulldogs.</p><h3>ACC championship</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Game 5 (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-OjB2l" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/OjB2l/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="118" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p><em>Game time: 8 p.m.</em></p><h3>🏈 <a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=7acbb646-402f-439a-b1d9-ea0e33fccd8a&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=41&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=21&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3416639&amp;tags=CFB&amp;tags=Picks">Pick: Virginia (-4.5)</a>
</h3><p>Duke has no business being in the ACC title game. The conference's bizarre tiebreakers set up a championship between 10-2 Virginia and 7-5 Duke. If Virginia wins, it's headed to the CFP. If Duke wins, there's no guarantee, because the committee might consider a Group of 5 team like James Madison ahead of the Blue Devils. Remember, the five highest-ranked conference champions punch a ticket, but that doesn't have to include major conferences.</p><p>It's puzzling that this line is so low considering Virginia pummeled Duke by 17 on the road just a few weeks ago. While the Cavaliers have had some close calls, their defense has been pretty consistently good. The Blue Devils can put up points, but they'll be held in check by the ACC's second-best scoring defense. Meanwhile, Duke allows the fourth-most yards in the conference, which should allow Virginia to put quality drives together.</p><h3>Big Ten championship</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Game 5 (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-bhcGo" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/bhcGo/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="126" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p><em>Game time: 8 p.m.</em></p><h3>🏈 <a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=3f9b08d9-1abe-4a3f-8219-e40087be5a6d&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=41&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=21&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3416639&amp;tags=CFB&amp;tags=Picks">Pick: Ohio State (-4.5)</a>
</h3><p>Ohio State finished the season 10-1-1 against the spread. There's no way I'm picking against a team that's been that profitable against the number. Ohio State arguably hasn't faced any real competition, especially in Big Ten play. However, the Buckeyes have dominated every team in their path. And since beating Oregon in October, Indiana hasn't played any juggernauts either.</p><p>The Hoosiers are real contenders, unlike last year, but the Buckeyes are more physically dominant in the trenches and own the nation's best defense. There's a reason they're the national title favorites. At this point, I'd take Ohio State as a 4.5-point favorite over anyone.</p><blockquote><p>👉 <strong><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3416639&amp;tags=CFB&amp;tags=Picks">Check out all conference championship lines on theScore Bet here</a></strong></p></blockquote><p><em>US: Must be 21+. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER; Hope is here. Call <a href="tel:8003275050">(800)-327-5050</a> or visit <a href="http://gamblinghelplinema.org/">gamblinghelplinema.org</a> for 24/7 support (MA); Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY).</em></p><p><em>ON: Please play responsibly. 19+. ON only. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call ConnexOntario 24/7 at <a href="tel:18665312600">1-866-531-2600</a>. Text us at 247247 or chat with us at <a href="http://www.connexontario.ca/">www.connexontario.ca</a>.</em></p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/33594583/related

CFB conference championship picks: Alabama-Georgia rematch takes center stage

April 13, 2016, was an eventful day in the NBA. As Kobe Bryant dropped 60 points during his caree...

<p>April 13, 2016, was an eventful day in the NBA. As Kobe Bryant dropped 60 points during his career finale in front of a celebrity-filled crowd, the Warriors completed the most historic regular season ever, breaking the 1995-96 Bulls' record of 72 wins.</p><p>Golden State's improbable feat previously seemed like it wouldn't be eclipsed for decades - if at all. Ten years later, the 21-1 Thunder have a legitimate chance to win 74 games and stake their claim in history. The defending champs are overpowering teams by an average margin of 15.3 points, eclipsing their own point-differential record set last season (12.9).</p><blockquote><p>🏀 <a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnba%2Fsection%2Fseason-specials&amp;campaign=thescore-content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3417858"><strong>Check out all of the Thunder's season-long specials on theScore Bet here</strong></a></p></blockquote><p>Oklahoma City's 15.1 net rating would also be the best in NBA history. Last year's group finished with a 12.8 net rating, the second best ever, trailing only the 1995-96 Bulls.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>While the Thunder won't win 78 games, which they're currently on pace for, a more realistic question remains: Could they win 74?</p><h3><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnba%2Fsection%2Fseason-specials&amp;campaign=thescore-content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3417858">Thunder wins odds</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Wins</th>
<th>Odds</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>70+</td>
<td>-105</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>72+</td>
<td>+210</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>74+</td>
<td>+525</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>76+</td>
<td>+1300</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>The Thunder have a 16% implied probability of breaking the record, which seems low considering their supremacy. The schedule, however, is working against them. Oklahoma City has faced the NBA's easiest schedule thus far and has the hardest remaining strength of schedule. While the weak competition has somewhat propelled the team's strong start, so has its roster depth and defensive dominance.</p><p>The rest of the league is playing a never-ending game of whack-a-mole with OKC. When you think one key player is knocked out, another pops up. The most impressive part about the Thunder's start is that Jalen Williams, their second-best player, missed the team's first 19 contests.</p><p>It didn't matter, thanks to their cutting-edge scouting, drafting, and development system. Ajay Mitchell, who rarely played during last season's championship run, is averaging 15 points in 26.7 minutes. Aaron Wiggins and Isaiah Joe are scoring career highs of 13.5 and 12.9 points per game, respectively.</p><p>Seven Thunder players are averaging at least 12 points, and 11 are playing more than 18 minutes per contest. (Only one of those 11 is older than 27.) And I haven't even mentioned Chet Holmgren or Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. The former is having a career-best season in scoring (18.4 points per game) and is the favorite to win Defensive Player of the Year. The latter has somehow elevated his performance following one of the most impressive individual campaigns ever.</p><p>The one underwhelming part of Gilgeous-Alexander's game over his career has been his 3-point shooting. He was never a poor shooter, but opponents have typically been more comfortable letting him pull up from deep than allowing him to accelerate downhill or get to his mid-range spots. Well, that perceived weakness no longer exists. The reigning MVP is shooting a career-high 43% from distance.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812485/cropped_GettyImages-2248367615.jpg?ts=1764876405" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812485/w220xh124_GettyImages-2248367615.jpg?ts=1764876405 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812485/w320xh180_GettyImages-2248367615.jpg?ts=1764876405 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812485/w640xh360_GettyImages-2248367615.jpg?ts=1764876405 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812485/w768xh432_GettyImages-2248367615.jpg?ts=1764876405 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812485/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2248367615.jpg?ts=1764876405 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">William Purnell / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><p>Gilgeous-Alexander is approaching rarified air as an all-time great guard. Only four players have averaged at least 30 points for four consecutive campaigns - Michael Jordan, Oscar Robertson, Wilt Chamberlain, and Adrian Dantley. SGA will become the fifth this season.</p><p>The 27-year-old has scored at least 20 points in 94 straight games. Only Chamberlain has displayed that level of scoring consistency with 126 straight 20-point outings. Gilgeous-Alexander is <a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnba&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3417858&amp;tags=NBA&amp;tags=Thunder">+175 to break the record</a>.</p><p>The shotmaking and clutch scoring - he leads the NBA in clutch points - is nothing new for Gilgeous-Alexander, but he's also mastered playmaking of late.</p><p>"The only thing that's really shown up a little differently is he's really starting to manipulate the game as a playmaker," Thunder head coach Mark Daigneault <a href="https://x.com/NickAGallo/status/1982271724415508565">said</a> in October.</p><p>His driving ability often forces defenses to send an extra defender or crowd his driving lanes. However, he perfectly reads defensive coverages. Blitz? Switch? Drop? Show? It doesn't matter. SGA, who's averaging a career-low 1.7 turnovers (tied with his rookie season) and a career-high 6.5 assists, will make the right play.</p><p>The Thunder's offense is just as good as last year's, but relentless defense remains their identity. They hold teams to 103.8 points per 100 possessions, seven points fewer than the next-best defense. Their persistent ball pressure forces the most turnovers in the league, and they have the second-best turnover rate, consistently winning the possession battle.</p><p>Their carousel of defenders allows zero breathing room to opposing guards, and the frontcourt duo of Holmgren and Isaiah Hartenstein efficiently protects the rim.</p><p>Oklahoma City's daily commitment and buy-in from stars and role players alike over an 82-game season is practically unheard of. Even the best NBA teams take nights off. OKC has nothing to prove after capturing a championship but plays like a group that hasn't yet won a playoff series.</p><p>So, can the Thunder win 74 games? They're favored to win every game the rest of the season, according to ESPN Analytics, and have proven that they swallowed enough electrolytes to avoid a championship hangover. The durability, depth, and consistent relentlessness that Oklahoma City displays are unprecedented. Still, there's a reason no team has ever gone 74-8. It's a long shot, but if any group is wired to accomplish the unimaginable, it's the Thunder.</p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports writer at theScore. </em><em>You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more basketball coverage.</em></p><p><em>US: Must be 21+. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER; Hope is here. Call <a href="tel:8003275050">(800)-327-5050</a> or visit <a href="http://gamblinghelplinema.org/">gamblinghelplinema.org</a> for 24/7 support (MA); Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY).</em></p><p><em>ON: Please play responsibly. 19+. ON only. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call ConnexOntario 24/7 at <a href="tel:18665312600">1-866-531-2600</a>. Text us at 247247 or chat with us at <a href="http://www.connexontario.ca/">www.connexontario.ca</a>.</em></p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/33593396/related

Race to 74: Could Thunder break all-time wins record?

The final week of the regular season has arrived, setting the stage for high-stakes showdowns as ...

<p>The final week of the regular season has arrived, setting the stage for high-stakes showdowns as teams battle for playoff spots and school pride in intense rivalries like The Game, the Egg Bowl, and the Iron Bowl. We broke down three Friday matchups and four Saturday clashes. Enjoy this weekend's post-Thanksgiving treat as you sweat out winners.</p><blockquote><p>👉 <strong><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3408370&amp;tags=NCAAF&amp;tags=Picks">Check out all college football Week 14 lines on ESPN BET and theScore Bet here</a></strong></p></blockquote><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796826/Game_Picks-Teal.jpg?ts=1754581918" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796826/Game_Picks-Teal.jpg?ts=1754581918 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796826/Game_Picks-Teal.jpg?ts=1754581918 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796826/Game_Picks-Teal.jpg?ts=1754581918 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796826/Game_Picks-Teal.jpg?ts=1754581918 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796826/Game_Picks-Teal.jpg?ts=1754581918 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution"></span></figcaption></figure><h3><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3408370&amp;tags=NCAAF&amp;tags=Picks">Saturday matchups</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Game 5 (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-BIxb3" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/BIxb3/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="119" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p><em>Game time: 12 p.m.</em></p><h3>🏈 <a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=338eac18-dcdb-42d4-89c9-0fe2116022be&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=43&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=23&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3408370&amp;tags=NCAAF&amp;tags=Picks">Pick: Ohio State -9.5</a>
</h3><p>All personnel and schematic logic are thrown out the door when it comes to The Game. Undefeated Ohio State is significantly better than a 9.5-point favorite over Michigan, but the Wolverines' run of four straight wins in the rivalry has kept this line lower.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Ohio State suffered its only inexcusable loss of the cold stretch last season, when it was a 20.5-point favorite over an abysmal Michigan squad. However, the programs were evenly matched in the three prior outings. While the Wolverines have improved this campaign, the Buckeyes should've presumably learned from their flawed game plan and lack of focus in last year's game.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Game 5 (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-fwH7M" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/fwH7M/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="127" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p><em>Game time: 12 p.m.</em></p><h3>🏈 <a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=83ccc4a6-9b82-4ed3-8a41-7d5b17c2e191&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=2&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=1&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3408370&amp;tags=NCAAF&amp;tags=Picks">Pick: Pittsburgh +6.5</a>
</h3><p>Is there any program you can count on to disappoint in a big moment more than Miami? Although the Hurricanes' playoff hopes are still alive, they must defeat a red-hot Pittsburgh team on the road. Many people are quick to point out how well Miami has been playing since inexcusably losing to SMU, but let's look at the competition since then: Syracuse, NC State, and Virginia Tech. Not exactly flourishing squads.</p><p>Since the beginning of October, Pittsburgh's only loss has been to Notre Dame - one of the nation's best programs. Yes, I know Miami beat the Fighting Irish in the opener, but that was a long time ago. Also, the Hurricanes have stagnated, while the Panthers have continued to rise. Pittsburgh should keep this within a touchdown at home.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Game 5 (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-6Kvk1" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/6Kvk1/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="119" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p><em>Game time: 3:30 p.m.</em></p><h3>🏈 <a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=06995db2-7c66-44e4-bef1-324999c03973&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=11&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=6&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3408370&amp;tags=NCAAF&amp;tags=Picks">Pick: Vanderbilt +3.5</a>
</h3><p>This matchup features the SEC's two most explosive offenses and two of its weakest defenses. Tennessee's passing attack will be a nightmare for Vanderbilt's weak secondary to stop. However, the real story is the sense of urgency driving the teams. With three losses, the Volunteers are all but out of playoff contention. Meanwhile, Vanderbilt only has two respectable losses and needs to win Saturday to assemble a playoff-worthy resume.</p><p>Tennessee's conference wins this year have come exclusively against lower-tier opponents, and the program has lost every matchup against a ranked opponent. The Volunteers aren't a physical football squad, presenting a prime opportunity for the Commodores to capitalize in a must-win spot.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Game 5 (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-54omR" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/54omR/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="126" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p><em>Game time: 7:30 p.m.</em></p><h3>🏈 <a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=6fbf038c-9841-4671-9d0f-c5411349826c&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=41&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=21&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3408370&amp;tags=NCAAF&amp;tags=Picks">Pick: Alabama -6.5</a>
</h3><p>Anything can happen in the Iron Bowl, but this would be a pathetic loss for Alabama, considering it would likely knock them out of the playoffs. Auburn is 1-6 in the SEC, and while some of those losses have been competitive, the talent discrepancy on the field has always been apparent.</p><p>The Crimson Tide own the SEC's third-best passing offense, while the Tigers' passing defense is brutal. Auburn's strength is its rushing defense, but that won't matter when quarterback Ty Simpson is carving up the secondary. On the other side, Alabama's defense allows the fewest passing yards in the conference, and the Tigers throw for the fewest. Auburn's offense won't pick up enough first downs or explosive plays to keep this game close.</p><h3><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3408370&amp;tags=NCAAF&amp;tags=Picks">Friday matchups</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Game 5 (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-gR5gx" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/gR5gx/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="119" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p><em>Game time: 12 p.m. ET</em></p><h3>🏈 <a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=caba7c54-fc4e-4d8e-9839-d090d4979963&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=2&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=1&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3408370&amp;tags=Picks&amp;tags=NCAAF">Pick: Ole Miss -7.5</a>
</h3><p>Mississippi State will be a popular pick because of the uncertainty surrounding Ole Miss head coach Lane Kiffin. Is he staying with the Rebels or leaving for Florida or LSU? Who knows, but Ole Miss announced that Kiffin will decide his coaching future following the Egg Bowl. While that raises questions about Kiffin's future and whether he has one foot out the door, it feels more likely he'll stay, given the lack of reporting to the contrary.</p><p>As for the game, Ole Miss matches up well with Mississippi State as the more physically imposing and talented offensive group. But this is more about the Bulldogs. They've seemingly quit despite being one win away from bowl eligibility, losing to Georgia by 20 and Missouri by 22 in their last two contests. Both Ole Miss and Mississippi State are coming off a bye, but the Rebels' talent is on another level.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Game 5 (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-dvVNc" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/dvVNc/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="127" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p><em>Game time: 3:30 p.m.</em></p><h3>🏈 <a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=00173afa-ae90-4d47-b0e5-03453bcf3cdb&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=11&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=6&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3408370&amp;tags=NCAAF&amp;tags=Picks">Pick: Georgia -13.5</a>
</h3><p>This might seem like a large spread for a rivalry game, especially since Georgia Tech nearly upset Georgia in overtime last season. However, these two programs are trending in opposite directions. The Bulldogs have won seven straight and are primed to earn a postseason bye. Meanwhile, the Yellow Jackets have lost against NC State and Pittsburgh in two of their last three games, with their only win during that stretch being a two-point victory over 1-10 Boston College. Georgia Tech also isn't playing well in November and doesn't have the defense to keep up with Georgia's balanced offensive approach.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Game 5 (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-CM3B4" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/CM3B4/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="127" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p><em>Game time: 7:30 p.m.</em></p><h3>🏈 <a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=e40c4154-5688-4d9f-87d1-7eb7e78c3191&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=21&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=11&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3408370&amp;tags=NCAAF&amp;tags=Picks">Pick: Texas A&amp;M -2.5</a>
</h3><p>Texas A&amp;M's primary weakness is its tendency to allow too many explosive plays - a vulnerability Texas could exploit. But the Aggies' defensive line should outmuscle a weak Longhorns offensive line, which could make Arch Manning's life difficult. Although the Texas quarterback has played well over the last month, he'll likely falter under pressure when forced to make off-balance throws.</p><p>This is a complete toss-up, primarily because Texas A&amp;M is safely in the playoff picture, while Texas must win to give itself a chance. Still, with the Aggies' undefeated record and consistent dominance, it's difficult to side with a Longhorns team that has repeatedly struggled against elite opponents.</p><blockquote><p>👉 <strong><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaaf&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3408370&amp;tags=NCAAF&amp;tags=Picks">Check out all college football Week 14 lines on ESPN BET and theScore Bet here</a></strong></p></blockquote><p><em>US: Must be 21+. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER; Hope is here. Call <a href="tel:8003275050">(800)-327-5050</a> or visit <a href="http://gamblinghelplinema.org/">gamblinghelplinema.org</a> for 24/7 support (MA); Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY).</em></p><p><em>ON: Please play responsibly. 19+. ON only. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call ConnexOntario 24/7 at <a href="tel:18665312600">1-866-531-2600</a>. Text us at 247247 or chat with us at <a href="http://www.connexontario.ca/">www.connexontario.ca</a>.</em></p><p><a href="https://about.thescore.bet/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Ffootball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnfl%2Fevent%2F33a01a1a-b8f9-4181-8188-d8103d3956c2&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3412268">test</a></p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/33485744/related

CFB Week 14 picks: Rivalry week highlights regular-season finales

Confusion surrounded the Raptors entering this season because of their puzzling roster constructi...

<p>Confusion surrounded the Raptors entering this season because of their puzzling roster construction and salary structure. But Toronto's adopted a modern NBA philosophy predicated on speed and positional flexibility, and the team is proving the doubters wrong. The Raptors have won eight straight games and are second in the East at 13-5. So why don't their title chances reflect that?</p><p>While the Raptors' Eastern Conference title odds have shifted in their favor (from +7500 to <a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=a3d07cb5-a088-4ea6-a3e9-de44ab5e9657&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=21&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=1&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnba&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3408673&amp;tags=NBA&amp;tags=Raptors">+2000</a> on theScore Bet), they still own the 10th-best odds. Frankly, that's disrespectful.</p><p>The Raptors probably won't win the East since they won't have the best player in any playoff series. However, in an conference with contenders whose championship cases contain more holes than a golf course, Toronto deserves respect as a team capable of exploding for a Pacers-like championship run.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Raptors' emergence is no early-season fluke. Their defense, ball movement, speed, and depth are all sustainable factors that can lead to their first playoff appearance since 2022. The Raptors were +200 to make the playoffs in the preseason and are now -450. Their 34.5 preseason win total has jumped to 46.5. Of the previous 254 squads that won at least 13 of their first 18 games, all but one made the playoffs, according to Stathead data cited by <a href="https://x.com/JosephCasciaro/status/1993145058208760223">theScore's Joseph Casciaro.</a></p><h3><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnba&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3408673&amp;tags=NBA&amp;tags=East+odds">Eastern Conference odds</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Team</th>
<th>East title odds</th>
<th>Playoff odds</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Cavaliers</td>
<td>+250</td>
<td>-15000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Knicks</td>
<td>+400</td>
<td>-2500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Pistons</td>
<td>+650</td>
<td>-5000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Magic</td>
<td>+800</td>
<td>-500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>76ers</td>
<td>+1000</td>
<td>-220</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Hawks</td>
<td>+1100</td>
<td>-600</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Bucks</td>
<td>+1300</td>
<td>even</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Celtics</td>
<td>+1500</td>
<td>-120</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Heat</td>
<td>+1600</td>
<td>-375</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Raptors</td>
<td>+2000</td>
<td>-450</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Bulls</td>
<td>+3300</td>
<td>+120</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Hornets</td>
<td>+20000</td>
<td>+3000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Pacers</td>
<td>+25000</td>
<td>+3500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nets</td>
<td>+75000</td>
<td>+4000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Wizards</td>
<td>+75000</td>
<td>+4000</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><blockquote><p>🏀 <strong><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fnba&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3408673&amp;tags=NBA&amp;tags=East+odds">You can find full championship odds on ESPN BET and theScore Bet here </a></strong></p></blockquote><p>Although the Pistons and Raptors have surged to the top of the standings, the Knicks and Cavaliers are still the class of the East, and Toronto swept the three-game season series against the Cavs. While Cleveland was missing at least one of its top four players in every game, that was a 64-win team last season. The Raptors' performance proved they can hold their own against the conference's best.</p><p>The Raptors own the NBA's fifth-best net rating and a top-10 offense and defense. Much of the criticism levied at the franchise is about using 88% of its salary cap on four players who have one combined All-Star appearance over the last five seasons. But the team has proved it's greater than the sum of its parts.</p><p>Head coach Darko Rajakovic's style emphasizes playing fast and together. Rajakovic, who has the second-best odds to win Coach of the Year (+650), encourages his wings to grab and go, pushing the ball in transition off of turnovers and defensive rebounds. The Raptors are second in the NBA in assists and transition points and fourth in cutting frequency, meaning they're moving without the ball and finding open cutters.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">The Raptors love to move the ball and get out in transition. They want their wings to rebound and push it. Toronto is second in the NBA in assists and transition points <a href="https://t.co/GlrzhaBlw0">pic.twitter.com/GlrzhaBlw0</a></p>— Sam Oshtry (@soshtry) <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry/status/1993413108979634453?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 25, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The Raptors average the 10th-fewest seconds per touch and eighth-fewest dribbles per touch. They move the ball quickly, generating clean looks against scrambled defenses - they attempt the fifth-most open shots in the league. They focus on the quality of their 3-pointers, not the quantity: They're sixth in 3-point percentage (37.8%) while attempting the fourth-fewest threes per game (32.3).</p><p>Even mid-range menace Brandon Ingram, who's elevated Toronto's half-court offense, isn't holding onto the ball as much. He's averaging 3.21 seconds per touch, the lowest mark of his career.</p><p>Ball movement and pace promote a balanced scoring attack, and the Raptors fittingly have six players averaging double figures. Ingram leads the way with 21.6 points per game as co-star Scottie Barnes averages 19.2 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 5.1 assists. RJ Barrett, Immanuel Quickley, and big man Jakob Poeltl are all significant contributors.</p><p>The Raptors' revelatory bench is filled with cheap, unheralded, and young talent. Sandro Mamukelashvili is averaging a career-high 10.4 points for Toronto's second unit. The rotation also features Collin Murray-Boyles, Gradey Dick, Jamal Shead, Ochai Agbaji, and Ja'Kobe Walker. The Raptors don't fall off a cliff when the starters sit: They own the NBA's second-best bench net rating behind the Thunder.</p><p>Defensively, the Raptors' intense ball pressure and innovative schemes force the seventh-most turnovers. Their long, athletic wing defenders - also capable rebounders - have led Toronto's ascension. Barnes, who's making an All-Defensive case, is third in the NBA in stocks (steals plus blocks).</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Incredible Raptors defensive possession late in last night's win. Sent bodies at Donovan Mitchell (17 pts, 6-for-20) all night. <br><br>Raps send a double at Mitchell, force the ball out of his hands, and perfectly rotate out of it to force a turnover <a href="https://t.co/kYUobhI74N">pic.twitter.com/kYUobhI74N</a></p>— Sam Oshtry (@soshtry) <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry/status/1993327717408805357?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 25, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The Raptors are a long shot to win the East. You know who else was a long shot? The 2024-25 Pacers were +4000 in mid-December. While the personnel are different, the Raptors share a somewhat similar profile to Indiana. Around 25% of Toronto's points come in transition, similar to last year's Pacers group. Both teams average roughly 30 assists per game. They also grab defensive rebounds and force turnovers at a similar rate, creating transition opportunities.</p><p>Raptors fans should enjoy an exciting basketball team that will end their playoff drought. And with the conference wide-open, there's no harm in dreaming about making a run at another NBA title.</p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports writer at theScore. </em><em>You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more basketball coverage.</em></p><p><em>US: Must be 21+. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER; Hope is here. Call <a href="tel:8003275050">(800)-327-5050</a> or visit <a href="http://gamblinghelplinema.org/">gamblinghelplinema.org</a> for 24/7 support (MA); Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY).</em></p><p><em>ON: Please play responsibly. 19+. ON only. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call ConnexOntario 24/7 at <a href="tel:18665312600">1-866-531-2600</a>. Text us at 247247 or chat with us at <a href="http://www.connexontario.ca/">www.connexontario.ca</a>.</em></p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/33459926/related

Raptors' resurgence: Is Toronto a real threat in the East?

Few things are better than settling in for the first game on Thanksgiving Day, knowing you have 1...

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/33456756/related

Thanksgiving prop party: Gibbs' over among 10 bets to sink your teeth into

A month into the 2025-26 campaign, here are 10 candidates who have made the strongest early cases...

<p><em>A month into the 2025-26 campaign, here are 10 candidates who have made the strongest early cases for the NBA's most prestigious individual accolade.</em></p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="MVP RANKINGS: SENGUN 2026" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-evk2i" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/evk2i/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p><em>Previous:</em> Not ranked</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>PTS</th>
<th>REB</th>
<th>AST</th>
<th>FG%</th>
<th>3PT%</th>
<th>FT%</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>15</td>
<td>22.4</td>
<td>9.7</td>
<td>7.1</td>
<td>49</td>
<td>44.2</td>
<td>74.3</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Kevin Durant is the No. 1 scoring option the ascending Rockets desperately needed in clutch situations, but Sengun is the two-way force that makes the team click. The Turkish center has improved in nearly all facets of his game after earning his first All-Star selection last year. He's averaging a career-high 22.4 points despite not having familiar pick-and-roll partner Fred VanVleet on the court.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Sengun has helped compensate for Houston's lack of a starting point guard through his growth as a playmaker. His 7.1 assists per game are tops among all frontcourt players not named Nikola Jokic, and he's stretching the floor with much-improved 3-point shooting; he's at 49% on 2.9 attempts per game after shooting 23.3% last season.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="MVP RANKINGS: MITCHELL (2026)" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-wRv9f" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/wRv9f/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p><em>Previous: </em>Not ranked</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>PTS</th>
<th>REB</th>
<th>AST</th>
<th>FG%</th>
<th>3PT%</th>
<th>FT%</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>17</td>
<td>29.9</td>
<td>4.8</td>
<td>5.5</td>
<td>50.3</td>
<td>38.3</td>
<td>83.2</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>The Cavaliers have been inconsistent, and other guards around the league are emerging onto the scene, but don't forget about Mitchell, who's quietly off to his best start yet. He's averaging a career-best 29.9 points on an efficient 50.3% shooting from the field, the highest mark of his decorated nine-season career.</p><p>Cleveland is 12 points better per 100 possessions with Mitchell on the court than off, and its 118.9 offensive rating with him on the floor would lead the NBA. The six-time All-Star has kept the 12-7 Cavs afloat with Darius Garland playing in only five games and Evan Mobley's offensive inconsistencies persisting.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="MVP RANKINGS: MAXEY 2026" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-YV2E6" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/YV2E6/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p><em>Previous:</em> Not ranked</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>PTS</th>
<th>REB</th>
<th>AST</th>
<th>FG%</th>
<th>3PT%</th>
<th>FT%</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>16</td>
<td>33</td>
<td>4.6</td>
<td>7.8</td>
<td>47.1</td>
<td>41.5</td>
<td>88</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>It's a miracle that the 76ers are flirting with a top-six spot in the Eastern Conference. Joel Embiid and Paul George are a costly $110-million band of bumps and bruises, and the team's defense plummets to the league's second worst in the absence of the former, whose offensive contributions have withered. Maxey is now the present and future of the organization.</p><p>The 25-year-old guard leads the league in minutes (40.4) and is second in scoring with 33 points per game. His career-high 54-point performance in Thursday's thrilling overtime win versus the Bucks cemented his status as Philadelphia's focal point. Maxey also recorded nine assists, three steals, and three blocks in the outing, making him just the fourth player in NBA history to total 500-plus points and 100-plus assists in the first 15 games of a season.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="MVP RANKINGS: EDWARDS 2026" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-x3EMl" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/x3EMl/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p><em>Previous:</em> 6</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>PTS</th>
<th>REB</th>
<th>AST</th>
<th>FG%</th>
<th>3PT%</th>
<th>FT%</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>13</td>
<td>27.8</td>
<td>4.5</td>
<td>3.5</td>
<td>47.5</td>
<td>38.2</td>
<td>83.3</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Julius Randle has arguably been as important for the Timberwolves as Edwards this season, especially because the latter has missed a few games due to injury. But make no mistake, Edwards is still the engine that makes Minnesota run. While his assists, 3-point volume, and percentage are slightly down from the last campaign, the three-time All-Star leads the team in scoring.</p><p>He's the driving force on the league's fourth-best offense and regularly delivers superstar performances, like when he dropped an efficient 41 points during the T-Wolves' season opener versus the Trail Blazers or when he scored another 41 against the Suns on Friday.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="MVP RANKINGS: WEMBY 2026" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-kvxjP" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/kvxjP/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p><em>Previous:</em> 5</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>PTS</th>
<th>REB</th>
<th>AST</th>
<th>FG%</th>
<th>3PT%</th>
<th>FT%</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>12</td>
<td>26.2</td>
<td>12.9</td>
<td>4</td>
<td>50.2</td>
<td>34.5</td>
<td>85.7</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Much like last season, Wembanyama's candidacy for awards is at risk due to injury. Nonetheless, the Frenchman has taken another leap in his third campaign, and the Spurs are a far improved team, which invariably validates his claim to hardware. Much of that is thanks to his growth as a player, as the center is attempting 4.8 threes per contest, down from 8.8 a season ago. That's a sign of Wembanyama identifying inefficiencies in his game.</p><p>In a Nov. 10 victory over the Bulls, Wembanyama became the first player in NBA history with at least 35 points, 10 rebounds, five assists, five blocks, and five 3-pointers in a game. He followed that showing two nights later with a 31-point triple-double versus the Warriors. Those are MVP numbers from a talent who's certain to be in the discussion for years to come.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="MVP RANKINGS: CADE 2026" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-gcm5F" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/gcm5F/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p><em>Previous:</em> Not ranked</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>PTS</th>
<th>REB</th>
<th>AST</th>
<th>FG%</th>
<th>3PT%</th>
<th>FT%</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>14</td>
<td>27.1</td>
<td>6</td>
<td>9.6</td>
<td>44.4</td>
<td>28.4</td>
<td>82.1</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>After making his first All-NBA appearance last season, Cunningham has leaped from star to superstar to open this campaign. As a result, the Pistons have gone from tying an NBA-record 28 straight losses to first place in the East in two seasons. Cunningham's averaging career highs in points and assists despite shooting a career-low 28.4% from deep.</p><p>He's emerged as one of the best pick-and-roll prowlers in the NBA, processing layers of defense and making the right reads at his highest level since entering the league in 2021. Cunningham makes everyone around him better, explaining why Detroit is 15-2 despite dealing with multiple injuries.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="MVP RANKINGS: GIANNIS 2026" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-bniMc" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/bniMc/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="84" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p><em>Previous:</em> 4</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>PTS</th>
<th>REB</th>
<th>AST</th>
<th>FG%</th>
<th>3PT%</th>
<th>FT%</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>13</td>
<td>31.2</td>
<td>10.8</td>
<td>6.8</td>
<td>62.9</td>
<td>50</td>
<td>63.6</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Antetokounmpo's hopeful short-term absence due to a groin injury should emphasize how important he is to a Bucks team that lacks a dependable support cast. In 13 games this season, the two-time MVP has recorded fewer than 30 points on just three occasions, and one of those was a 14-minute outing versus the Cavs in which he sustained the injury.</p><p>Antetokounmpo is posting a league-high 12 made field goals per game on a career-best 62.9% field-goal percentage. That's astounding when taking into account that Milwaukee doesn't have another All-Star, meaning he's constantly seeing double-teams. No player on this list shoulders a bigger burden than Antetokounmpo.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="MVP RANKINGS: DONCIC 2026" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-da2SZ" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/da2SZ/4/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p><em>Previous:</em> 3</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>PTS</th>
<th>REB</th>
<th>AST</th>
<th>FG%</th>
<th>3PT%</th>
<th>FT%</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>12</td>
<td>34.5</td>
<td>8.8</td>
<td>8.9</td>
<td>46.7</td>
<td>31.1</td>
<td>79.3</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Doncic leads the NBA in points per game and is fourth in assists per contest. He's carried a Lakers offense that relies heavily on his pick-and-roll brilliance. With Austin Reaves emerging as a reliable secondary option and LeBron James returning from injury, Los Angeles looks like a contender at 12-4.</p><p>Doncic is posting the highest usage rate of his career at 39.6% and is nearly averaging a triple-double. He's scored at least 40 points in one-third of his games played and leads the league in pick-and-roll points. Doncic is one of the very best players in the world, and a team that revolves around him deserves respect as a title threat.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="MVP RANKINGS: SGA 2026" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-vlSDI" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/vlSDI/3/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="84" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p><em>Previous:</em> 2</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>PTS</th>
<th>REB</th>
<th>AST</th>
<th>FG%</th>
<th>3PT%</th>
<th>FT%</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>18</td>
<td>32.2</td>
<td>4.9</td>
<td>6.6</td>
<td>54.3</td>
<td>41.2</td>
<td>89.8</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>The Thunder are on pace to eclipse last season's 68-14 mark and join the 1995-96 Bulls and 2015-16 Warriors as the only teams to win 70-plus games, due in no small part to Gilgeous-Alexander's contributions. Oklahoma City's 17-1 start is even more impressive when considering that Jalen Williams, who was the team's second-leading scorer in 2024-25, hasn't played yet.</p><p>Gilgeous-Alexander is scoring 32.2 points per game on 54.3% shooting. It's also important to note his tidiness with the ball, as his 1.8 turnovers per contest (3.72 assist-to-turnover ratio) are a remarkably low return for a primary ball-handler who's averaging 33.1 minutes. And keep in mind, he's sat the entire fourth quarter in<strong> </strong>11 of 18 games, so his numbers could be much higher.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="MVP RANKINGS: JOKIC 2026" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-tyQcy" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/tyQcy/3/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p><em>Previous:</em> 1</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>PTS</th>
<th>REB</th>
<th>AST</th>
<th>FG%</th>
<th>3PT%</th>
<th>FT%</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>17</td>
<td>29.6</td>
<td>12.8</td>
<td>11.1</td>
<td>62.6</td>
<td>43.4</td>
<td>85.3</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Somehow, after winning three MVPs, Jokic continues to elevate his game every year. He's averaging a triple-double with 29.6 points, 12.8 rebounds, and 11.1 assists while shooting 43.4% from three. His true shooting percentage of 73.6% is on pace for the best single-season mark in NBA history. He's the NBA's most efficient post player, scoring a whopping 1.39 points per post-up. By comparison, Sengun, who's having an All-NBA season and is the only player who earns more post possessions per game than Jokic, averages 0.93 points per post touch.</p><p>The 2023 Finals MVP leads the league in virtually every individual advanced statistic, including player impact estimate, despite his usage rate not ranking in the top 30. Jokic generates a quality shot for himself or a teammate on nearly every possession regardless of the defensive coverage. He's led the Nuggets to a 13-4 start. For all his success, this is the best start to a season in Jokic's career.</p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/33453317/related

NBA MVP Rankings: Young guns enter the fray

Welcome to Feast Week. Aside from conference tournaments and March Madness, this is the most exci...

<p>Welcome to Feast Week. Aside from conference tournaments and March Madness, this is the most exciting time in the college basketball calendar, as teams travel all over the country to compete in holiday tournaments against nonconference opponents. We're focusing on three of the major tournaments: the Players Era Festival, the Maui Invitational, and the Battle 4 Atlantis. We've picked winners for each one to provide a rooting interest as you inhale college basketball over the next few days.</p><blockquote><p>👉 <strong><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3404929">You can find the full tournament odds on ESPN BET and theScore Bet here </a></strong></p></blockquote><h3>🏀 <a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3404929&amp;tags=CBB&amp;tags=Picks">Players Era Festival odds</a>
</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Team</th>
<th>Odds</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Houston</td>
<td>+275</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Gonzaga</td>
<td>+500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Tennessee</td>
<td>+650</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Iowa State</td>
<td>+700</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kansas</td>
<td>+1200</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Michigan</td>
<td>+1200</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Alabama</td>
<td>+1500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>St. John's</td>
<td>+1500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Baylor</td>
<td>+1800</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Oregon</td>
<td>+2000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>San Diego State</td>
<td>+2000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Notre Dame</td>
<td>+2200</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Auburn</td>
<td>+3000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Creighton</td>
<td>+6000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Maryland</td>
<td>+8000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Syracuse</td>
<td>+8000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>UNLV</td>
<td>+10000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Rutgers</td>
<td>+20000</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><h3>🏆 <a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=deb1eda7-2054-4b7f-acaf-172bc6575af3&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=16&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=1&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3404929">Winner: Alabama (+1500)</a>
</h3><p>The Players Era Festival has become the premier holiday tournament as 18 marquee programs gather in Las Vegas to compete for the crown and, more importantly, a $1-million NIL prize for the winner.</p><p>This field is loaded with national title contenders. Houston, Gonzaga, Alabama, St. John's, Michigan, Tennessee, and others could easily earn Final Four trips in March. For now, bank on Alabama.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Crimson Tide are as battle-tested as any team in the country. They've already played three top-15 opponents, defeating St. John's and Illinois but losing to current No. 1 Purdue.</p><p><a href="https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4873090/labaron-philon-jr">Labaron Philon Jr.</a> and <a href="https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4684276/aden-holloway">Aden Holloway</a> lead a prolific offense that features seven players averaging at least nine points. While they haven't shot particularly well from three, Alabama's fast-paced attack puts pressure on opposing defenses. The Crimson Tide own the nation's seventh-best offensive rating, per <a href="https://kenpom.com/index.php">KenPom</a>. When the defense falls behind, Alabama can score with any team in the country. Depth is key in tournaments like these, and Alabama could be the deepest team in the field.</p><p>Alabama's odds are longer because it plays Gonzaga in the opener Monday night. The loser will almost certainly be eliminated from championship contention in a group-play format. If Alabama can get past Gonzaga, those odds will shorten dramatically.</p><h3>😴 <a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=3ac76f9b-93b8-4c35-9ce7-63ef16278a5a&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=31&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=1&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3404929">Sleeper: Auburn (+3000)</a>
</h3><p>Auburn suffered a scare in its opener, needing overtime to defeat Bethune-Cookman. While the Tigers have mostly played inferior competition, their most impressive performance came in a one-point loss to No. 2 Houston. They have a top-20 offense nationally and a deep roster of scoring guards. Auburn also has a manageable group-play schedule: It's a favorite over Oregon in its opening game Monday night and then faces Michigan on Tuesday, potentially setting up a championship trip.</p><h3>🏀 <a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3404929&amp;tags=CBB&amp;tags=Picks">Maui Invitational odds</a>
</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Team</th>
<th>Odds</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>NC State</td>
<td>+185</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Texas</td>
<td>+210</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>USC</td>
<td>+275</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Arizona State</td>
<td>+1100</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Boise State</td>
<td>+1500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Seton Hall</td>
<td>+4000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Washington State</td>
<td>+4000</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><h3>🏆 <a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=460d1df7-a6f8-4068-9fe5-3c710085e845&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=15&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=4&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3404929">Winner: USC (+275)</a>
</h3><p>The Maui Invitational was once the main event of Feast Week, but it's lost its luster as event organizers have failed to assemble an NIL prize to compete with other tournaments. None of the nation's top programs are competing in Hawaii, but some noteworthy schools are making the trip.</p><p>NC State is undergoing a resurgence under Will Wade. While the Wolfpack hasn't played any stiff competition this season, they should compete for the ACC title. However, they're the obvious choice among the Maui field. USC is our pick for the week.</p><p>The Trojans have the nation's 24th-best net rating and one of the top backcourts, with Auburn transfer Chad Baker-Mazara and Maryland transfer Rodney Rice each averaging at least 20 points per game. Ezra Ausar and Jacob Cofie are a reliable forward duo. USC is an underrated group and has a backcourt that can power it to three wins in three days.</p><h3>🏀 <a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3404929&amp;tags=CBB&amp;tags=Picks">Battle 4 Atlantis odds</a>
</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Team</th>
<th>Odds</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Vanderbilt</td>
<td>-125</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Saint Mary's</td>
<td>+260</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Virginia Tech</td>
<td> +650</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>VCU</td>
<td>+1500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>South Florida</td>
<td>+1600</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Colorado State</td>
<td>+1800</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Wichita State</td>
<td>+5000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Western Kentucky</td>
<td>+10000</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><h3>🏆 <a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=3ca03ddb-a8fe-4ca8-9cb2-84be29c94b3e&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=18&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=5&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fbasketball%2Forganization%2Funited-states%2Fcompetition%2Fncaab&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3404929">Winner: Saint Mary's (+260)</a>
</h3><p>Saint Mary's is on the same tier as Vanderbilt and easily capable of knocking off the Commodores. Although Saint Mary's has played weak competition in its 6-0 start, it's annihilated its opponents and looked like a cohesive unit.</p><p>The Gaels have guard depth with Mikey Lewis, Joshua Dent, and Liam Campbell. They also have an imposing frontcourt that's helped produce a top-20 defense in the country. They're no strangers to playing high-major teams in a tournament setting. Without any daunting opponents in the field, Saint Mary's should feel confident it can come out on top.</p><p><em>US: Must be 21+. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER; Hope is here. Call <a href="tel:8003275050">(800)-327-5050</a> or visit <a href="http://gamblinghelplinema.org/">gamblinghelplinema.org</a> for 24/7 support (MA); Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY).</em></p><p><em>ON: Please play responsibly. 19+. ON only. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call ConnexOntario 24/7 at <a href="tel:18665312600">1-866-531-2600</a>. Text us at 247247 or chat with us at <a href="http://www.connexontario.ca/">www.connexontario.ca</a>.</em></p><p><em>Sam Oshtry is a sports writer at theScore. </em><em>You can follow him on X <a href="https://twitter.com/soshtry">@soshtry</a> for more basketball coverage.</em></p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/33443280/related

CBB Feast Week: Players Era Festival, Maui Invitational picks

https://rich-content.thescore.com/authors/michael-j-chandler/content_cards

Michael J. Chandler

Supervising editor

https://rich-content.thescore.com/authors/sam-oshtry/content_cards

Sam Oshtry

https://rich-content.thescore.com/authors/brenden-deeg/content_cards

Brenden Deeg

News editor

https://rich-content.thescore.com/authors/eric-patterson/content_cards

Eric Patterson

Betting Supervisor