Tuley the Tout

Tuley the Tout: Picks for Weekend of Nov. 21-23

2009-11-20T15:26:00Z

Here are this weekend's free picks as posted in the weekly Tuley the Tout thread in the VFV Forums. Go there for the latest line moves and how they affect the selections.

But before getting to that, a few reminders that the ViewFromVegas.com Podcast has been moved up to 7 p.m. PST Tuesdays for the live show, which can be accessed along with the archives at http://www.lvrocks.com/details.php?id=149. This week's show was again co-hosted by John Kelly and if you missed it you already missed Dave Tuley's lean on Colorado +17 vs. Oklahoma St. Thursday night (the Buffaloes nearly pulled off the huge upset before losing 31-28 but still easily covering the spread) and guest handicapper "tpking" giving the Dolphins over the Panthers. Download the 11/17/09 podcast to hear more analysis of this weekend's games.

Also of note, you can still enter the ViewFromVegas.com weekly football contests to win your choice of a free month of LIVE ODDS service from vegasinsider.com or dinner with Dave Tuley. This is the last weekend of the college contest but the NFL contest will continue through the end of the regular season with college bowl contests and an NFL playoff contest to come. See the VFV Forums for details.

This week's free selections

By Dave Tuley

Plays marked with an asterisk(*) are ones I consider best bets and intending to definitely play in the Leroy's College Challenge and the Hilton SuperContest. Please keep in mind that the lines quoted below often differ from those contest lines, which are locked in earlier in the week. This thread is meant to aid in real-world betting and I will often say I like a game but that I'm waiting for the public to steam it higher (as I play almost exclusively underdogs) to get the best price possible.

COLLEGE FOOTBALL (68-49-1 this season for a net profit of 14.1 units)
Louisville +11.5 vs. South Florida...drifting up but has probably reached peak (tpking had it 27-22)
Iowa St. +15 vs. Missouri...steaming higher so wait for peak (tpking had it 31-23)
*Kentucky +9 vs. Georgia...correction, as makana posted, Dr. Bob went against us so line up to 9.5 (tpking had it 25-23)
UConn +6 vs. Notre Dame...6 looking more solid as M has dropped from 6.5 (tpking had it 26-23)
*Air Force +10 vs. BYU...looks like 10 is best we'll see unless you got rare 10.5 (tpking had Air Force winning outright, 31-30)
Memphis +23.5 vs. Houston...grab +24 if you can get it (tpking had it 33-19)
*Army +2.5 vs. North Texas (wait to see if we get +3 (tpking had Army winning outright, 22-16)

NFL FOOTBALL (48-28-1 this season for a net profit of 17.3 units)
Bills +9 vs. Jaguars...Jags shouldn't be favored by this much over anyone (see two weeks ago vs. Chiefs)
Chiefs +10 vs. Steelers...we're still seeing inflated lines even with dogs barking lately
Ravens +1 vs. Colts...Colts moved to favoritism from earlier in week, I like that, gonna keep fading Colts
Falcons +6.5 vs. Giants...and why are Giants still getting so much respect? +7 looking possible so wait
*49ers +6.5 vs. Packers...not sure we'll get 7 here, but will still play as this should be low-scoring tight game
Seahawks +11 vs. Vikings...Seattle can actually win this if they don't beat themselves, grab 11 before it disappears
Redskins +11 vs. Cowboys...more inflation, though I don't like backing this Skins team
Bears +3 vs. Eagles...grab the 3 with lowest juice possible in case it disappears
*Titans +5 vs. Texans...Tennessee playing like last year; Texans still not reliable as fave

Tuley the Tout's free Breeders' Cup picks plus football games of Nov. 6-7 (and FREE contests)

2009-11-06T14:03:00Z

Below is a link for my Breeders' Cup analysis of the 14 races being held Friday and Saturday, plus my college and pro football picks for this weekend. But before we get that, I want to let you know about a FREE contest we're holding at ViewFromVegas.com using the 14 races on the two days of the Breeders' Cup. You make $600 in mythical wagers on Friday, Nov. 6, and then $800 in mythical wagers on Saturday, Nov. 7. The person winning the most fake money will win 2-3 nights hotel room in Las Vegas on their next visit (you're on your own getting here), dinner for two with yours truly, and show tickets for two (and I might join you if I like the show LOL). All plays must be posted in the OFFICIAL contest thread so you must sign up (for free) for the ViewFromVegas.com Forums. The deadline for Friday's plays is 12:30 p.m. PST on Friday, so you must sign up and post your plays by then to be eligible. Click here for full details and to enter

We also hold weekly FREE college and pro football contests (picking 7 games against the spread in college football and 5 against the spread in the pros) in the Forums where the winner receives their choice of a free month of LIVE ODDS from vegasinsider.com or dinner with yours truly. Again, you just have to register in the VFV Forums (it's free and requires just a username and a valid e-mail address) and post your plays in the OFFICIAL threads. Here's this week's links:

VFV College Contest
VFV NFLContest

If you're reading this after the weekend of Nov. 6-7, 2009, you can look for current contests in the ViewFromVegas.com Forums
Good luck this weekend.

Yours truly,
Dave Tuley

Here is my analysis and picks for the 2009 Breeders' Cup starting at 12:35 p.m. PST Friday and continuing on Saturday: tuleythetout's take on 2009 Breeders' Cup

And here are my college and pro football picks for this weekend:

COLLEGE FOOTBALL (60-38-1 this season for a net profit of 18.2 units)
Western Michigan +20 vs. Michigan St. (could go even higher)
UConn +17 vs. Cincinnati (added play, this has been climbing up, +17.5 available, wait for peak)
Illinois +7 vs. Minnesota (pretty solid +7 now, so make sure you get at least that, iffy contest play at +6.5)
Maryland +6.5 vs. North Carolina St. (doubt we'll see 7 here, but let's wait)
Duke +10 vs. North Carolina (this is 10.5 at the Las Vegas Hilton so wait to see if others follow)
LSU +7.5 vs. Alabama (tpking only had it Bama 28-22, so this might be too close to call)
Oregon St. +7.5 vs. California (this should be closer to pick-em or a FG at most, but still grab +7.5 if you can)
Florida St. +8.5 vs. Clemson (Seminoles playing better for Bowden; starting to see +9 so wait)
Purdue +6.5 vs. Michigan (dont' think we'll see 7 here either, get +6.5 or +6 at worst)

NFL FOOTBALL (34-23 this season for a net profit of 3.3 units)
Bengals +3 vs. Ravens (line has been creeping up, hopefully worst we get is +3 -120; have faith Raven backers will steam it)
*Texans +9 vs. Colts (would love this to steam to 10, but anything over TD is OK)
Cardinals +3 vs. Bears (grab +3 now...I'd play back a little at Bears -2.5...also like over 45.5)
*Dolphins +11 vs. Patriots (Miami usually plays Pats well; plenty of +11 available to make it an official play but waiting for peak)
Panthers +14 vs. Saints (+14 is now gone in Vegas; if you didn't bet it early, wait to see if it goes back up)
Titans +4 vs. 49ers (Titans off the schneid; match up well with 49ers)
Chargers +5.5 vs. Giants (Giants struggling big time, get no break from scheduler here, wait for line to peak)
Cowboys +3 vs. Eagles (Cowboys have shown a lot lately; if you missed +3 -110 you'll probably have to lay -120 now)

Check out the ViewFromVegas.com Forums for other people's plays, as well as making your own...and join in the handicapping discussions that can help make you a better bettor.

Tuley the Tout: Picks for weekend of Sept. 26-28

2009-09-25T10:58:00Z

Hey, everyone. I haven't posted on this actual blog in a while -- since I've mostly moved my daily selections to the ViewFromVegas.com Forums since that seems like the preferred method for most people, but I thought it was time to post one of these along with the e-mail blast to "subscribers" of the blog (simply click the SUBSCRIBE button on the page if you found this through some other method).

I'm off to a pretty good start to the football season as I'm 16-11 (59.2%) with all posted college plays and 10-5 (66.7%) in the NFL, though I wrote what I hope was an amusing piece in Saturday's issues of Daily Racing Form about how I'm only 2-4 with my "best bets" in that publication: http://drf.com/news/content/10.html

Here are my plays for this weekend, along with some line analysis for when the best time is to place the wagers. These are the kinds of posts I do every day in my Tuley the Tout posts in the Forums. Please visit every day and join the discussions.

COLLEGE FOOTBALL (16-11 this season for a net profit of 3.9 units)
Buffalo +3 vs. Temple (starting to see some +3.5, wait to make sure you get that)
Central Florida +11 vs. East Carolina (still OK at +10.5)
Fresno St. +16 vs. Cincinnati (actually at +16.5 now)
Army +10 vs. Iowa St. (solid number, not likely to change)
UAB +13.5 vs. Texas A&M (starting to see +14 so make sure you grab that)
Ball St. +32.5 vs. Auburn (also climbing upward, which we like)
Kentucky +21.5 vs. Florida (ditto)
Idaho +16.5 vs. Northern Illinois (ditto, get the +17)
Colorado St. +16.5 vs. BYU (anti-swagger play vs. BYU; also up to +17)
Louisville +14 vs. Utah (ditto on anti-swagger play)
Iowa +10 vs. Penn St. (Penn St.'s soft schedule could haunt them)
New Mexico St. +10 vs. New Mexico (saw my first +11 on this game, so wait)
Washington St. +45.5 vs. USC (anti-swagger, can't pass up all these points)
Arizona +2.5 vs. Oregon St. (looks like it's steaming toward 3, so wait)

NFL FOOTBALL (10-5 this season for a net profit of 4.6 units)
Titans +3 vs. Jets (missed at open, but grab now if can get -120 or -115 on the +3)
Buccaneers +7 vs. Giants (I grabbed +7, so this is official...lots of 6.5 so shop around)
Lions +6.5 vs. Redskins (another play against Skins; didn't see 7; don't need it for official)
Dropped my lean on Seahawks
Bills +6 vs. Saints (hard to jump in front of Saints' train, but took at 6...don't think it's going higher)
Dolphins +? vs. Chargers (currently +6...don't like travel off Monday night...small play for me but not contest play)
Bengals +4 vs. Steelers (grab +4 ASAP, don't get stuck with 3.5)
Cardinals -2 vs. Colts (was hoping for plus-points...layed -2...still playable at -2.5, don't wait to lay -3)

MLB UMPIRE TOTALS (123-93-13 on the season and a net profit of 16.85 units)
Phillies-Brewers UNDER 8.5 -105... Brian Knight 22-12 last year, 15-13-1 this year

MLB UNDERDOGS (net loss of 8.65 units)
Reds +115 vs. Astros
Tigers +150 vs. White Sox

ViewFromVegas.com is also the place to go to get the view from the oddsmakers in Las Vegas with the NCAA, NFL and MLB polls from Las Vegas Sports Consultants, the up-to-date future-book odds for sports as well as horse racing's Breeders' Cup and the 2010 Kentucky Derby, plus insights and trends, and the best coverage of the top football handicapping contests in town, including free selections from the top handicappers and consensus plays of all contestants posted each weekend.

NBA down to final four; other picks; podcast preview

2009-05-19T18:20:00Z

Today's blog starts with the NBA playoffs moving into the conference championships with the Nuggets-Lakers series starting tonight and the Magic-Cavaliers on Wednesday. It should prove to be two interesting series. The Lakers and Cavaliers have been the favorites to reach the NBA Finals for a long time, but I don't see either as being a lock against the upstart Nuggets and Magic.

Before we get to today's plays, I want to post a reminder to tune into tonight's ViewFromVegas.com Podcast at 8 p.m. Pacific Time at: http://www.lvrocks.com/details.php?id=149 (be sure to click on the Cam & Chat to read/take part in the lively discussion that is often as entertaining as the actual show). We'll be giving the ViewFromVegas of Rachel Alexandra's victory over Mine That Bird in the Preakness, plus an update of our Triple Crown contest, plus a look at the NBA and NHL playoffs and everything else that is going on in the world of sports, including a discussion about Delaware approving sports betting last week. If you miss the live show, you can always catch it afterward or in the coming days in the archive at the above site (but with no live chat or webcam).

And now onto the picks:

NBA PLAYOFFS (11-15 for a net loss of 5.5 units)
Nuggets-Lakers UNDER 215 (slight lean to Nuggets +6.5)
Magic +8 vs. Cavaliers (Wednesday)

NHL PLAYOFFS (11-19 for a net loss of 2.45 units)
Blackhawks +300 series price vs. Red Wings (better than taking +180 in Game 2)

MLB UMPIRE TOTALS (43-31-2 on the season and a net profit of 7.8 units)
No plays Tuesday...the best home-plate ump going on last year's stats was Dale Scott, who is working the Mets-Dodgers game tonight, at 20-13 with the under, but he's 3-5 this year with the under, plus the total is at 8 with Maine vs. Billingsly, so I have to pass.

MLB UNDERDOGS (41-56 for a net profit of 1.34 units)
Pirates +135 vs. Nationals
Giants +135 vs. Padres
Tigers +115 vs. Rangers
Angels +140 vs. Mariners

Good luck, everyone. And don't forget to check the Forums each day as plays will be posted in the Tuley the Tout thread. Plays also are getting sent more often (and in a more timely fashion) to followers of twitter.com/viewfromvegas and I expect that to become even more common as I can post from my cell phone without having to log on to a computer or laptop.

Preakness picks, plus baseball and NBA/NHL playoffs

2009-05-16T09:18:00Z

First off on the Tuley the Tout docket this weekend is my Preakness breakdown that I did for Bodoglife.com. Normally, if I miss out on a longshot, I don't like betting them back the next race as a lot of people get on the bandwagon too late when the value on the horse is long gone (like Win Willy in the Arkansas Derby), but in the case of Mine That Bird, a lot of people aren't giving him his due respect after his Derby upset, so I think there could be value on him in the Preakness. Click here if you want to sign up at the Bodog Racebook and get a 10% Bonus.

On Friday, I lost with my lone MLB umpire total as I had the Orioles-Royals UNDER 8.5 and the Royals won 8-1 (so close but yet so far); however, I made up for that with 2 MLB underdogs pulling the upset with the Dodgers +120 vs. the Marlins and the Mets +155 vs. the Giants

MLB UMPIRE TOTALS (42-28-1 on the season and a net profit of 9.9 units)

Phillies-Nationals UNDER ???...they were rained out Friday and the scheduled umpire for Saturday was supposed to be Chuck Meriwether (21-12 with the under last year and 5-3 this year), so I want to bet the game he is behind the plate...I'll update this play Saturday in the ViewFromVegas.com Forums and to followers of twitter.com/viewfromvegas
Twins-Yankees UNDER 10...Marty Foster was 22-10-2 with the under last year, 4-2 this year
Royals-Orioles OVER 10 EV...Jerry Meals was 22-12 with the over last year, 5-1 this year

MLB UNDERDOGS (38-53 for a net loss of 0.11 units)

Diamondbacks +115 vs. Braves
Indians +150 vs. Rays

NBA PLAYOFFS (11-15 for a net loss of 5.5 units)

Magic-Celtics UNDER 186 points (Sunday)
Rockets +13 vs. Celtics (Sunday)

NHL PLAYOFFS (11-17 for a net loss of 0.45 units)

Blackhawks +170 vs. Red Wings (Sunday)
Hurricanes +180 vs. Penguins (Monday)

Weekend of May 9-10

2009-05-09T15:40:00Z

Friday was a losing day for my posted plays in my daily Tuley the Tout thread in the VFV Forums (that's the place to check each day for those interested in my selections...though Twitter is quicker for those with SMS) as I lost with the Capitals +180 vs. the Penguins and the Lakers-Rockets UNDER 195 and managed a split with MLB underdogs as the Giants beat the Dodgers as a +180 dog, but it turned out OK with my late MLB umpire totals going 2-1 with the loss being an even-money bet. Those umpire totals were only available for those who checked the thread late or for followers of twitter.com/viewfromvegas. Note: those plays are not included in the record for MLB umpire totals listed below or that would be another unit of profit.

I'll start the weekend with four MLB umpire totals, all of which are unders (I might have to look for a "grand salami" on under the total number of runs on the day), including the best under ump so far, John Hirschbeck:

MLB UMPIRE TOTALS (36-21-1 on the season and a net profit of 11.7 units)

Cardinals-Reds UNDER 8...John Hirschbeck was injured last year, but 5-1 with the under this year
Nationals-Diamonbacks UNDER 9.5 EV...Paul Emmel was 21-13 with the under last year, 2-3 this year
Marlins-Rockies UNDER 9.5...Bill Miller was 21-12-3 with the under last year, 3-2 this year
Tigers-Indians UNDER 9.5...Brian O'Nora was 22-12 with the under last year, 3-3 this year

MLB UNDERDOGS (35-45 for a net profit of 1.41 units)

Cubs +140 vs. Brewers
Tigers +120 vs. Indians

NHL PLAYOFFS (9-12 for a net profit of 1.45 units thanks to the power of plus-money)

Penguins-Capitals UNDER 5.5 +110...burned before but coming back on the back-to-back

NBA PLAYOFFS (7-11 for a net loss of 5.1 units)

Nuggets +4 vs. Mavericks

Good luck, everyone.

Derby 135 selections; plus sports plays heading into weekend

2009-05-01T09:43:00Z

It's Derby Weekend, but there's a lot more going on with the NBA & NHL playoffs as well as a full slate of Major League Baseball plus the Hatton-Pacquiao fight on Saturday night. I'll be posting my picks in this thread thread throughout the weekend, starting with my Kentucky Derby breakdown that I did for Bodoglife.com along with Steve Davidowitz: http://www.bodoglife.com/horse-betting/expert-face-off/

I'm glad to put Thursday behind me as I went 0-2 with MLB underdogs and also lost with the Blazers vs. the Rockets. I'll start with two MLB umpire totals as that's where I've had the most success lately.

MLB UMPIRE TOTALS (27-11-1 on the season and a net profit of 13.7 units)

Marlins-Cubs UNDER ...Brian O'Nora 22-12 with the under last year, 3-1 this year
Angels-Yankees OVER ...Hunter Wendelstedt 20-12-2 with the over last year, 3-2 this year
Red Sox-Rays UNDER ..John Hirschbeck 3-1 with the under this year

MLB UNDERDOGS (27-35 for a net loss of 0.14 units)

Cardinals EV vs. Nationals
Padres +120 vs. Dodgers
Royals +160 vs. Twins

NHL playoffs (6-7 for a net profit of 2.3 units thanks to the power of plus-money)

Ducks +200 vs. Red Wings

NBA PLAYOFFS (6-7 for a net loss of 1.7 units)

No plays for Friday

Note: Over the weekend, I'll post more plays in the VFV Forums.

Tuley the Tout: picks for Tuesday, April 28, plus podcast

2009-04-28T13:39:00Z

First, things first, don't miss the ViewFromVegas Podcast at 8 p.m. Pacific on Tuesday night at lvrocks.com (including what should be a lively chat room), or at least catch the archive, which will be available shortly after 9 p.m. and through the week. Crick from our ViewFromVegas Forums will be our special guest to go over the Kentucky Derby field and offer his opinions on the race. We'll also have other guests on, plus discuss the NBA and NHL playoffs and baseball as well. It should be an information-packed show.

Now to the touting. I didn't have any official MLB umpire totals plays yesterday as all but one series was starting anew (note: I did offer up one play to those who Twitter -- the hot, new popular instant messaging website that uses text messages to send people fast updates. The play lost, so this isn't the greatest endorsement, but those who want me to send them last-minute suggested plays can sign up at twitter.com and agree to follow twitter.com/viewfromvegas or go through the link on the ViewFromVegas.com home page).

Otherwise, I had a profitable day on Monday. I split my 4 baseball underdog plays but showed a profit of 0.3 units as the Cardinals +130 and Red Sox EVEN won. In the NHL, I won with both the Blackhawks +120 and the Ducks +110 as they closed out their respective series, and added a win in the NBA with the Nuggets +2.5 as they routed the Hornets 121-63.

TUESDAY'S PLAY

MLB umpire totals (23-10-1 for a net profit of 10.8 units)

Nationals-Phillies UNDER 9.5 -120...Dana DeMuth was 20-13 with unders last year, though 2-3 this year
Marlins-Mets OVER 9.5...Jerry Meals was 22-12 with the over last year, 2-1 this year
Pirates-Brewers UNDER 8.5...Wally Bell was 19-11-6 with unders last year, 2-1 this year
Rays-Twins UNDER 8...Bill Hohn was 16-10 with the under last year, 2-1 this year

MLB underdogs (26-28 but still a profit of 5.26 units)

Pirates +135 vs. Brewers
A's +135 vs. Rangers

NHL playoffs (6-7 for a net profit of 2.3 units thanks to the power of plus-money)

No plays...just going to enjoy the Game 7 drama...plus totals are shaded the right way with Rangers-Caps over and Canes-Devils under

NBA playoffs (6-4 for a net profit of 1.6 units)

Good luck, everyone...and be sure to check the ViewFromVegas.com Forums for my Tuley the Tout threads every day.

Picks for the weekend of April 25-26

2009-04-25T11:03:00Z

It's Saturday, and the NFL Draft is a big focus today, but there's lots of other sporting action going on today. My picks are below, but be sure to check out the horse racing threads in the ViewFromVegas.com Forums today with a lot of great cards around the country.

I went 2-1 with MLB underdogs on Friday with wins on the Phillies +120 and Dodgers +110 but a loss on the Yankees (due to the Red Sox getting two-run homer in bottom of the ninth and then winning in extra innings) for a profit of +1.3 units. I went 1-0 in the NBA with the Trail Blazers rallying to cover vs. the Rockets but 0-1 in the NHL with the Rangers getting shut out by the Capitals.

We're back with MLB umpire totals after taking Friday off with all weekend series starting anew. For the year, we're 22-8-1 for a net profit of 11.9 units:

SATURDAY'S PLAYS
Braves-Reds UNDER 9...Mike Estabrook 15-7 with the under last year (sorry this one already started, though I'm thinking I won't get any complaints from those receiving this via e-mail or on the tuleythetout.com blog as it's 6-0 in the 2nd inning)
Blue Jays-White Sox UNDER 9.5 EV...Marty Foster 22-10-2 with the under last year

MLB underdogs (21-24 but still a profit of 2.86 units)

Brewers +120 vs. Astros
Twins +120 vs. Indians

NHL playoffs (3-5 but still a profit of 0.8 units thanks to big-priced underdogs)

Penguins +120 vs. Flyers
Flames +140 vs. Blackhawks

NBA playoffs (4-3 for a net profit of 0.7 units)

Spurs +4.5 vs. Mavericks

Be sure to check the VFV Forums every day and find the Tuley the Tout thread to get my current picks.

Dave

Tuley the Tout: 2 MLB plays for Friday, plus weekend NHL/NBA picks

2009-04-17T21:09:00Z

Thursday was one of those days that every handicapping dreams of where almost everything went right. I went 2-0 with my MLB underdog plays (cashing with the Indians +175 vs. the Yankees -- though followers should have been able to get +190 -- and the Padres +115 vs. the Mets) 3-0 with my umpire totals (the Padres-Mets OVER, the Marlins-Braves UNDER and the Angels-Mariners UNDER), plus 1-1 with two NHL playoff games (losing with the Flames +145 vs. the Blackhawks after the Flames led 1-0 and 2-1 before losing late, but then winning with the Ducks +190 vs. the Sharks in a 2-0 upset of the top seed).

That brings my record in these three categories to :

MLB underdogs: 17-14 for a net profit of 7.46 units thanks to the power of plus-money

MLB umpire totals: 12-5-1 for a net profit of 6.4 units (after starting the season 0-3)

NHL playoffs: 1-1 for a net profit of 0.9 units

I hope a lot of you have been following along. I hope to keep it going, though no one can expect to continue at such a lofty win rate (but I 'll certainly try). Remember that I only write these "Tuley the Tout" blogs about once a week, but my daily plays can be found each day in the ViewFromVegas Forums. We have a lot of other sharp handicappers in all sports, especially in horse racing, so it pays to check back every day.

There are no MLB umpire plays that qualify today with most series starting anew for the weekend, so check back Saturday morning for those plays. Here are some of my plays for the weekend. I welcome any questions in the VFV Forums.

MLB
Dodgers +155 vs. Phillies (Friday)
Braves +105 vs. Pirates (Friday)

NHL
Blues +165 vs. Canucks (Friday)
Flames +135 vs. Blackhawks (Saturday)

NBA
Bulls +8.5 vs. Celtics (Saturday)
Heat +5 vs. Hawks (Sunday)

Good luck, and see you at ViewFromVegas.com

Yours truly,
Dave Tuley

went 0-2 with my underdogs Wednesday (an ugly 9-0 loss by the White Sox and an equally embarrassing 19-6 loss by the Orioles), but I still claim a winning record on the season at 15-14 and a net profit of +4.56 profits thanks to the plus-money on dogs.

I was bailed out on the day as I went 2-1 with my umpire totals, winning with the Marlins-Braves OVER 9 and the Padres-Mets UNDER 9.5 while losing earlier in the day with the Red Sox-A's UNDER 9 -120 (which was a bit of a bad beat as Tim Wakefield had a no-hitter through 7 innings and the score was 2-0 until Boston scored 6 runs in the top of the eighth and eventually won 8-2. For the season, my MLB umpire totals are 9-5-1 for a net profit of +3.4 units.

I've got 5 plays for Thursday

Padres +115 vs. Mets
Indians +175 vs. Yankees

Marlins-Braves UNDER 9...Dana DeMuth was 20-13 with the under last year
Padres-Mets OVER 7.5 EV...Gary Darling was 23-11 with the over last year
Angels-Mariners UNDER 8...Marty Foster was 22-10-2 with the under last year

MLB picks getting hot after slow start

2009-04-12T16:42:00Z

After going 3-1 and +2.9 units on Friday with my underdo, I went 3-1 again on Sunday for +2.45 units (winning with the Mets +130 vs. the Marlins, Dodgers +110 vs. Diamondbacks, and Red Sox +105 vs. Angels while losing with the A's vs. the Mariners) and now stand at 10-9 on the season and more importantly with the plus-money from the dogs putting me at +3.16 units.

I also went 2-0 with my umpire over/under plays withe the Mets-Marlins over 9.5 (barely) and the Nationals-Braves under 9. That got me back to .500 at 3-3 on the season and just -0.3 units.

Here are my plays for Sunday:

Phillies +125 vs. Rockies
Royals +125 vs. Yankees (the first five inning bet might be better)

Mets-Marlins UNDER 7.5...Bob Davidson was 22-10-3 with the under last year
Cubs-Brewers UNDER 8.5...Angel Hernandez was 18-12-4 with the under last year
Rangers-Tigers UNDER 10...Bill Hohn was 16-10 with the under last year (just 7.5 runs per game)

Note: the two totals I passed on Saturday -- because I didn't feel as confident about them despite their home-plate umps hitting at better than 60% -- went 0-2, so I'm glad I made those decisions. For those who are curious, the one I'm passing on Sunday is Brian O'Nora (22-12 with the under last year, 1-0 this year) because the Giants-Padres total is 6.5, which even though it's nice with Lincecum on the mound of S.F., it's still too low for me to try to beat.

Monday, April 6: End of college b-ball season, start of MLB season (sort of)

2009-04-06T04:20:00Z

Monday is a changing of the seasons in a way as the NCAA basketball season comes to a close as North Carolina faces Michigan St. for the national title, while Major League Baseball starts its season with opening days around the country (OK, so the season technically opened Sunday night in Philadelphia, but I'm sticking to the theme here!!!).

North Carolina is favored by 7.5 points at most Las Vegas sports books as of Sunday night with the Leroy's chain of books holding the line at 7. The total ranges from 152 to 153 depending on where you shop. I have no opinion on the total. Most readers of mine know I love underdogs, but I can't see the Spartans staying with the Tar Heels the entire game. However, I do think Michigan St. can stay close early with the help of what could be a pretty good home-court advantage (despite the fact these teams played earlier in the year on this same court and NC romped 98-63), so I think the best play of the night is Michigan St. +4 in the first half.

If you're looking for more help, check out the ViewFromVegas.com Forums where you can find the picks of the top 3 handicappers in our spread/total contest as their competition comes down to the final game as well as checking out all the prop bets offered here in Vegas.

If you had been on the site Sunday, you would have seen I gave out the Braves +120 to upset the Phillies in the first game of the baseball season. Here's my picks for some of Monday's games as I think you have to look for the dogs to bark early as the oddsmakers don't always know which teams are going to jell at the start of the season:

Dodgers +120 vs. Padres
Rockies +155 vs. Diamondbacks
Rays +135 vs. Red Sox
A's +135 vs. Angels

We have a bunch of other handicappers looking at baseball every day in the Forums, too, so be sure to check out the other threads, as well as our upcoming coverage of the Masters (the odds are already posted, and we're going to have our very own Mr.OutsideVegas filing a report from Augusta this week).

I also challenge any website to match the amount of winning horse plays given out lately (our members have shared in big-price winners, exactas, trifectas and pick 4s time and time again this past week). ViewFromVegas is the place to be for day-to-day horse racing threads as well as getting everyone ready for the Kentucky Derby. Follow along with our hot handicappers and join in the discussion.

Yours truly,
Dave Tuley

P.S. Don't forget to tune into our live podcast each Tuesday night at 8 p.m. VFV Time by clicking the link on the ViewFromVegas.com home page or going directly to lvrocks.com. If you can't listen live, you can download the archive anytime after the show ends.

Final Four (and NIT title) picks, plus WSOP pre-qualifer hosted by VFV

2009-04-02T09:01:00Z

This has been a very profitable NCAA tournament for yours truly, Dave Tuley, as my top plays have gone 14-6 (70 percent) against the spread as posted in the ViewFromVegas.com Forums. I've also done well in the other tourneys, and before we get to Saturday's Final Four in Detroit, I also have a play in Thursday's NIT championship game at Madison Square Garden in New York;

Thursday:
Baylor-Penn St. UNDER 138 points (I've done well with Big 10 teams with the under in postseason games and see no reason to stop now)

Saturday:
Michigan St.-UConn UNDER 134 (same as above)
Villanova +7.5 vs. North Carolina (Villanova plays better defense than N.C., and the Wildcats have many weapons and catch match the Tar Heels depth-wise...also worth a look on the money line as many books are dealing +300 on the underdog

Are you a poker player? Ever dream of playing in the World Series of Poker? If so, read on . . .

The Bodog poker site is hosting a big WSOP qualifer on Sunday and ViewFromVegas.com has been offered a chance to host a pre-qualifer on Friday, April 3, at 5:05 p.m. VFV Time (for the unitiated, that's Pacific time/8:05 p.m. Eastern/7:05 p.m. Central).

Unlike our last free contest, this one will cost $11 to play ($10 buy-in plus $1 entry fee). The top two finishers will earn a $270 ($250+20) seat into the actual WSOP qualifier on Sunday at 1:35 p.m. VFV Time in which Bodog will award WSOP packages worth more than $12,000 (which includes $10,000 entry fee into the WSOP Main Event at the Rio starting on July 3 plus $2,000 in travel expenses) to the top four finishers. Bodog will also provide updates of its qualifiers on its website throughout the WSOP so family/friends can follow along, and I'll also do that at ViewFromVegas.com if we can get someone in the field.

If you're already a member of Bodog and have the poker software downloaded, you can proceed straight to the SCHEDULED TOURNAMENTS area and look under the PRIVATE tab for the "WSOP ViewFromVegas Pre-Qualifer" tournament and sign up. When you go to pay the $11 (which can be done in tournament credits for regular players at Bodog, it'll ask you for the password, which is tuley.

If you don't have an account, you'll have to register at Bodoglife.com and make a deposit. Some credit cards won't be accepted; I've found the VirtualPin option works just fine. You'll need to look to see what works for you.

Note: I know it's short notice and I tried to pick Friday's starting time to accommodate those back East as well as making it doable for those on the West Coast. If for some reason you can't start playing at that exact time, keep in mind that you can pull a Phil Hellmuth. He is known for showing up late at the start of tournaments. All you need to do is pre-register and when the tourney starts, the software will automatically seat you and just rake the blinds, which start out pretty small. It still might be worth your while to take a shot with such a low entry fee and such a high possible payday.

Tuley the Tout: Elite 8 selections

2009-03-28T13:33:00Z

After going 10-4 in the opening round of the NCAA tournament, I went 2-0 with my plays in the Sweet 16 with Villanova and the UConn-Purdue under, but then went 0-2 on Friday with Syracuse and Gonzaga (it wasn't a good night for underdog players as all four favorites covered).

But now we move on to the Elite 8 with two games on Saturday and two games on Sunday. I'll make a suggestion on each game but specify which is my best bet each day:

SATURDAY
UConn-Missouri UNDER 150
Villanova +2.5 vs. Pittsburgh (BEST BET)

SUNDAY
Michigan St. +7 vs. Louisville (BEST BET)
North Carolina-Oklahoma over 160

For my reasoning behind the picks, check out the ViewFromVegas.com Forums as well as checking out the plays of the other hot handicappers on the site, or to share your own views and plays.

Have a great weekend.

Yours truly,
Dave Tuley

Tuley the Tout 10-4 so far in NCAA tourney; Sweet 16 picks

2009-03-26T14:07:00Z

The first two rounds of the NCAA tournament was a little bit of a roller-coaster ride for yours truly, Dave Tuley, as I went 7-1 against the spread in the Thursday/Friday games with my top selections as published in the Daily Racing Form as well as in the ViewFromVegas.com Forums. I then continued the hot streak with a 3-0 record on Saturday, but followed that with an 0-3 mark on Sunday. It was a bummer to end the weekend on that note, but I'll take a 10-4 record anytime.

Here are my top four plays for the Sweet 16 games on this Thursday and Friday. I'll post again Saturday morning for my selections on the Elite 8.

THURSDAY
UConn-Purdue UNDER 135
Villanova +2.5 vs. Duke

FRIDAY
Syracuse +1 vs. Oklahoma
Gonzaga +8.5 vs. North Carolina

For my comments on all of the Sweek 16 round of games, including my reasoning behind the picks, listen to the archive of the ViewFromVegas Podcast, which can be accessed on the ViewFromVegas.com home page or lvrocks.

And, as always, you can ask questions of yours truly or other handicappers about any games (or share your own views) in the ViewFromVegas Forums.

Tuley goes 7-1 in opening round; second-round picks

2009-03-21T15:16:00Z

Thursday and Friday were two great days of basketball (OK, Friday was a lot better than Thursday as far as drama went) and fortunately I was able to navigate the mine fields and end up with 7 wins in 8 plays. Now, I always warn people to not judge handicappers on short samples, and that's true even when it's me. I mean, even though I went a "perfect" 4-0 on Saturday, anyone can tell you that Utah St. vs. Marquette and Sienna vs. Ohio St. very easily could have been losers . . . and the USC and Arizona winners had their tense moments before both pulled away to deceivingly wide margins. But I'll take a few lucky breaks to pad the record every now and then to make up for the bad beats.

We move on to the Round of 32 on Saturday and Sunday. I'm going to continue to stay selective with my top picks:

SATURDAY

Villanova -2.5 vs. UCLA (gametime is less than an hour way; if Villanova plays to its potential, they can roll; if not, the crowd can carry them just like vs. American)
Maryland-Memphis over 131.5 (Memphis is great on defense, but both teams like a fast tempo)
Western Kentucky +11 vs. Gonzaga (I've like this matchup since picking it in my brackets; can't pass up double digits)

SUNDAY

Cleveland St. +3 vs. Arizona (if you didn't know Wake Forest was a No. 4 seed and Cleveland St. was a No. 13 or who was the favorite when you watched the game, you wouldn't have even called it an upset)
USC +4 vs. Michigan St. (Trojans finally put it together in second half vs. Boston College)
Wisconsin +3.5 vs. Xavier (Badgers showed me a lot in win over Florida St.)

Be sure to check the ViewFromVegas.com Forums for discussions from other handicappers, as well as a recap of Friday when we had our 1st Annual ViewFromVegas March Party at Bally's Las Vegas.

Tuley the Tout: Super Bowl picks and props

2009-02-01T18:11:00Z

Super Bowl Sunday is here. I've had requests to post my plays in this blog in addition to my multiple posts in the ViewFromVegas.com Forums. Go there to see some of the discussion myself and other VFV members have been having leading up to the big game. In addition, if you're online later today during the game, check out the OFFICIAL ViewFromVegas in-game thread that I will be hosting at the top of the forums as I'll discuss the many proposition wagers as they're decided during the course of the game, as well as comments on the game in general.

So, here's my prediction as it appeared in Saturday's print editions of Daily Racing Form, followed by my recommendations on some of the countless prop bets available. Good luck, everyone.

Cardinals +7 (-120) vs. Steelers

Regular readers of this column may recall that I've been on the Cardinals in all three of their playoff wins, so it should come as no surprise that I'm on them one last time.

But it's not just out of a sense of loyalty but because there's still value in the line. I'm thoroughly convinced this line shouldn't be more than a field goal, and that pick-em might be the fairest line because either team can win.

For most of the past two weeks, this line has sat at the Steelers -7, though earlier this week we started to see some books go to 6 1/2. As much as I like the Cardinals (and I also suggest a wager on them to win the game outright at odds of 2-1 or better), I strongly recommend people take them +7 instead of +6 1/2, even if you have to lay -120 (risking $1.20 for every $1 you want to win) instead of the standard -110.

As Rood alluded to above, the matchup everyone is looking at is the Cardinals' high-flying offense against the Steelers' No. 1-ranked defense. Warner spreads the ball around to Larry Fitzgerald, Anquan Boldin, and Steve Breaston. And while the passing attack has been the focus of the offense as well as opposing defenses, the Cardinals have found a running attack in the postseason with a rejuvenated Edgerrin James.

The Steelers are stout against the run, but if they bring in extra defensive backs to combat the pass, the Cardinals have shown they are capable of picking up big chunks of yards on the ground. This is a more balanced offense than was seen during the regular season.

The Cardinals' defense is also much improved. Its best performance was standing up to the Panthers' running game in the divisional playoffs, and they can do the same here. The key has been the play of the Arizona defensive backs, who have clamped down on opposing receivers, allowing safety Adrian Wilson to come up to support against the run like almost another linebacker.

The Cardinals' pass rush has been relentless, and the Steelers' protection of QB Ben Roethlisberger has been spotty all year. I think this is where the game will be won or lost. As we saw versus the Ravens, Roethlisberger was under pressure but was able to escape and make plays outside the pocket - which he has done his whole career. He's adept at stepping away from the rush and being able to throw on the move. If the Cardinals can wrap him up when they have him dead to rights, they'll probably win. If Big Ben escapes, he'll be able to make big plays downfield.

These teams didn't face each other this season, but they did meet in 2007 with a lesser Arizona team beating an undefeated Pittsburgh team 21-14. At the time, Arizona coach Ken Whisenhunt, the former Steelers offensive coordinator who was passed over for the head coaching job that went to Mike Tomlin, said he took pride in beating his former team. In that game, the Cardinals sacked Roethlisberger four times, intercepted him twice (you think Whisenhunt knows how to game plan vs. his former pupil?) and Fitzgerald caught 10 passes for 120 yards. I see no reason they can't duplicate that performance.

All this being said, it is just one game, even if it is the Super Bowl, so wager within your budget.

The play: Cardinals for 1 unit.

NFC/AFC title games: 1-1 for net loss of 0.1 units (based on risking 1.1 units to win 1). Season DRF record: 31-19-2 (62 percent), including 3-2-1 on 2-unit plays, for a net profit of 10.9 units.

Cardinals -10.5 +800 (just for a small amount, but would be icing on the cake if they can get the blowout)
Steelers-Cardinals under 41.5 +175 (closer to the truer total, plus better than 8-5)
Kurt Warner first rushing attempt over 0.5 +400 (I think he'll run...whether he gets away from the rush is another matter)
Cardinals to score first +125
First score of game (any other score than TD) +165...I'm thinking Arizona field goal (which is available at 7-2)
Cardinals to score last in first half +120
Will there be a special teams or defensive TD...yes +155 (could be either team)
Game to be tied after 0-0...yes +115
Players to have a pass attempt over 2.5 +190 (either QB could be knocked out, halfback pass, fake punt or FG)
Mewelde Moore under 14.5 rushing yards -110 (Parker to get bulk of work)
Hines Ward under 65.5 yards receiving -110 (especially if he's less than 100%)
Nate Washington to have a rushing attempt +210 (Steelers bound to try some trickaration)
Steelers to have a rushing attempt over 4.5 +150 (kinda ties in with above)
Steelers under 27 points -110 (meshes with my Cards/under wagers)
Will Steelers score in 1st AND 2nd quarters...no +145 (Cards' defense still underrated)
Kurt Warner longest completion over 39.5 -110 (looks off safeties well, will go deep often)
Kurt Warner to throw a TD pass in 3rd quarter +210 (more likely if Cards win toss and defer to 2nd half)
Edgerrin James longest rush...over 8.5 yards -120
Steve Breaston over 39.5 receiving yards (REALLY like this one, 1006 yards this season, Warner likes him...Pitt can't cover everyone)
Total number of Cardinals to score...over 3 -120 (Rackers plus 2 other guarantees push)
Rushing yards by Cardinals...over 68.5 -110 (especially if they grab lead)
Kurt Warner vs. Ben Roethlisberger to throw first TD pass +105
Ben Roethlisberger vs. Kurt Warner to throw first interception +175
Steve Breaston vs. Nate Washington most receiving yards -4.5 -110
Hines Ward vs. Larry Fitzgerald to get first reception +165 (shaded too high on assumption Cards get the ball first)
Santonio Holmes vs. Anquan Boldin to get first reception +160 (ditto)
Cards first-half points +17.5 vs. Steelers full-game points -110 (like this better than Cards -7 full-game vs. Steelers' 1st half)
Jersey number of 1st player to score TD...over 38.5 -110 (in addition to QBs, most RBs, also get Fitzgerald and Holmes)
Lebron James points+assists vs. Steelers-Cardinals points +12.5 -110 (meshes with under bet, Lebron to go off)
Edgerrin James to score 1st TD 20-1 (also tempted Warner 20-1 and Roethlisberger 25-1)
First scoring play is Cardinals field goal 7-2
Last scoring play is Cardinals field goal 5-1 (especially if they're ahead)
Double result...tie at halftime/Steelers win 8-1 (not as juicy as year's past)
Double result...tie at halftime/Cardinal win 15-1 (but I can still see tie at halftime to guarantee profit)
Double result...Cardinals score first and win 5-1 (if they score first, ML now pays 5-1)

NFL divisional playoff picks (Jan. 10-11, 2009)

2009-01-06T10:51:00Z

Here are the comments I posted in the ViewFromVegas.com Forums for this upcoming weekend's NFL divisional playoffs. Tune into our podcast on Tuesday at 8 p.m. VFV Time (aka Pacific Standard Time) by accessing the ViewFromVegas.com home page or ask me about the games in the Forums.

AFC

The lines for next weekend's AFC divisional round were put up as the Ravens were wrapping up their 27-9 win over the Dolphins.

The Titans opened -3 vs. the Ravens with a total of 34 with a 30 percent of rain or snow expected. Palms shaded it with -120 on the Ravens +3. Looks like it's more likely to come down as opposed to move up (though it'll take a LOT of money to get books to move off 3 to 2.5). Leroy's has the total at 35 and some books shading to the over 34.

Books were split on line for the Steelers with Leroy's, Stations and Caesars making it Steelers -6 and the Hilton, Palms, MGM Mirage, Venetian and Golden Nugget at 6.5. The consensus total was 39.5 with the Hilton at 39 and Leroy's at 40 with every other book at 39.5. Again, my recommedations for those betting early:

Based on the market (and my own thoughts on the matchup) bet these sooner rather than later:

Ravens +3 -110 vs. Titans...over 34
Steelers -6 vs. Chargers...grab under 40 if you can get it...I'll likely bet the over later in the week if it comes down further (30 percent chance of snow with temps in 10s or 20s)

NFC

After the Eagles defeated the Vikings on Sunday, the lines were posted for this upcoming weekend's NFC divisional playoffs.

The Giants opened -4.5 vs. the Eagles in Saturday night's game with a total of 40 at the Las Vegas Hilton. The spread got bet down to 4 and then back up to 4.5 while the total raised to 41. The Venetian opened at 4 and Stations and the Palms put up 5 (just like Pinny offshore) with the MGM Mirage making it 5.5, which was quickly bet down. The side hasn't settled even by early Tuesday morning. The Hilton, Venetian and Golden Nugget are at Giants -4 with most books at 4.5 and the Palms now at 5. The total ranges from 39.5 at the Hilton with Caesars, Stations and Palms at 40.5.

The Panthers opened -10 vs. the Cardinals with a total of 46.5 at the Hilton. That total was much lower than Stations, which put up 49. The Hilton quickly went to 48 and then 48.5. The side was more stable with Leroy's and Venetian putting up 9.5. The spread has pretty much settled at 10, though the Venetian has it at 9.5 and the Stratosphere has it at 10.5 but with with -120 on the +10.5. The total is a solid 48 though the Hilton has it at 48.5 as of this writing.

Based on the market (and my own thoughts on the matchup), here's what I like. I'll add my analysis later in the week:

Cardinals +10 vs. Panthers...under 48 (48.5 if you can get it)
Giants -4 vs. Eagles...over 40 (again, 39.5 if you can get it)

NFL wild-card picks (Jan. 3-4, 2009)

2009-01-02T18:50:00Z

It's playoff time and we're hoping to end the season on a winning note. Those who have been following the Vegas handicapping contests in the ViewFromVegas Forums know I finished tied for 2nd in the Leroy's Pro Challenge and in 14th place in the Hilton SuperContest. It's been a great season for yours truly as well as many other posters in the forums. If you're not a regular there, you're missing out on a lot of winners and great discussion.

If you want to get in the game, we're having a free NFL pointspread/totals contest during the playoffs. The deadline is noon Saturday VFV Time (aka Pacific Standard Time). You just pick either the side or total in each playoff game. Once you lose two games, you're eliminated; however, all lines in the contest are full numbers so if you get a push you stay alive. Check out all the details in the OFFICIAL ViewFromVegas NFL Contest Thread. This is also a great chance to invite your family and friends to check out ViewFromVegas.com and to get them to sign up in the forums. There's a good chance they'll thank you!

OK...here were my leans in the NFL wild-card games that I posted early in the week:

Cardinals +2.5 over Falcons...over 50
Colts -1 vs. Chargers...over 51
Ravens -3 (up to -120, pass at 3.5) vs. Dolphins...under 37
Vikings +3 EV vs. Eagles...under 42.5

I haven't change my mind on any of those recommendations. The lines have stayed pretty solid all week except for the lines in the Falcons-Cardinals game coming down slightly and the Colts-Chargers total dropping from 51 to 50 at most books.

Here are my writeups from Saturday's editions of Daily Racing Form (note: with the holiday, I had to file this past Tuesday):

Cardinals +2 vs. Falcons: The Cardinals were the first team to win their division and they showed it the past month with several lackluster performances. However, I liked what I saw last week vs. the Seahawks and believe they will be ready for a playoff run. I think the Cardinals' unheralded defense will contain Michael Turner and pressure Matt Ryan.
PLAY: Cardinals for 1 unit.

Colts -1 vs. Chargers: While the Chargers won eight games all season, the Colts have won nine straight, including a 23-20 win over San Diego in this same stadium in Week 12 when it was a playoff atmosphere and a must-win for both teams. I see a repeat here. Philip Rivers has played great recently, but I don't trust him in crunch time, and the same goes for Chargers head coach Norv Turner.
PLAY: Colts for 1 unit.

Ravens-Dolphins UNDER 37 1/2: Ravens won here, 27-13, back in Week 7. I think they are the right side again but if you missed the -3 then I wouldn't lay the -3 1/2. Instead, I will look to the total and expect both defenses to dominate. The two quarterbacks, Chad Pennington and Joe Flacco, will probably be forced to make their reads quicker and not go as deep as they have lately. With the conservative nature of the playoffs, I'm expecting teams to settle for field goals instead of trying to make big plays and risk turnovers. I will call it Ravens, 17-13.
PLAY: Under 37 1/2 points for 1 unit.

Vikings +3 vs. Eagles: This could be another low-scoring game because both teams have highly ranked defenses and offenses that rely on the run (Vikings) or short passing game (Eagles). I'm not a fan of Tavaris Jackson, but he can get the job done if he's not asked to do much, and with Adrian Peterson being fresh (thanks to platooning with Chester Taylor throughout the regular season) the Vikings will be at least one home team that wins this weekend.
PLAY: Vikings for 1 unit.

Last week: 1-1 for a net loss of 0.1 units (based on risking 1.1 units to win 1). Season DRF record: 26-14-2 (65 percent), including 2-2-1 on 2-unit plays, for a net profit of 10.4 units.

P.S. If you have any questions or comments about these games, it's easier to address them in the VFV Forums. The thread for these picks is: http://forums.viewfromvegas.com/user/Discussion.aspx?id=143289

Bowl picks through Dec. 30, media appearances, etc.

2008-12-26T13:26:00Z

Before starting, we'd like to start by saying that we sincerely hope you are all having a wonderful holiday season.

This is always a very busy time of year with all the famiy commitments added to the excitement of the college bowl season and the NFL regular season coming to a close and ramping up for the playoffs. But this is what we live for, right.

Adding to my workload is the pressure of being in the running in a couple of season-long handicapping contests. Entering Week 17, yours truly (under the ViewFromVegas.com name) is in second place of the Leroy's Pro Challenge and tied for eighth place in the Hilton SuperContest. My lawyers have advised me not to be so forthcoming with my contest plays/strategies so as not to give my competitors the upper-hand, so I'm not going to list my NFL plays here, though my Hilton SuperContest plays will be available in the ViewFromVegas.com Forums (http://forums.viewfromvegas.com/user/Discussions.aspx) on Friday afternoon along with the other contenders when those are released after the 1 p.m. deadline. The Leroy's deadline isn't until 9 p.m. Saturday. Those will also be posted in the Forums shortly after that time. In addition, yours truly will be on the Leroy's Sports Hour at 10 p.m. that night along with Dr. Odds, who is leading the contest under the name overlaya, to discuss our plays and why we took them. That can be heard locally on KLAV AM-1230 as well as worldwide on the web at http://www.americanwagering.com/radio/daily.html

In the meantime, I'll post my bowl selections through next Tuesday. Keep in mind I've been right around .500 this college football season and 2-5 so far in the bowls.

Friday, December 26 -- Motor City Bowl
Central Michigan-Florida Atlantic UNDER 67.5

Saturday, December 27 -- Meineke Car Care Bowl
West Virginia -1.5 vs. North Carolina

Saturday, December 27 -- Champs Sports Bowl
Florida St. -5 vs. Wisconsin

Saturday, December 27 -- Emerald Bowl
California-Miami (FL) OVER 49.5

Sunday, December 28 -- Independence Bowl
Louisiana Tech PK vs. Northern Illinois

Monday, December 29, 2008 -- PapaJohns.com Bowl
Rutgers-NC State UNDER 56

Monday, December 29 -- Valero Alamo Bowl
Missouri-Northwestern UNDER 66

Tuesday, December 30 -- Roady's Humanitarian Bowl
Nevada -1.5 vs. Maryland

Tuesday, December 30 -- Texas Bowl
Rice -2.5 vs. Western Michigan

Tuesday, December 30 -- Pacific Life Holiday Bowl
Oregon +3 vs. Oklahoma State

Dr. Odds and I went over those games on last Tuesday's podcast. To listen to that, go to ViewFromVegas.com home page and click on the archive link in the upper-left-hand corner, and then be sure to listen in this upcoming Tuesday at 8 p.m. VFV Time (aka Pacific Time) as we go over the rest of the bowl games and preview the NFL playoffs.

Good luck this weekend.