Golf Betting – Deutsche Bank Championship Preview

There’s plenty of time for college football betting and NFL and the baseball playoffs, but we’re running out of meaningful golf tournaments to bet on in 2009. This week’s Deutsche Bank Championship is the second of four FedEx Cup playoff events, with the field narrowed to 100. Let’s review a few key names to consider.

Tiger Woods

Like the Patriots in NFL odds, you can’t talk about the top contender without mentioning Tiger. A pessimist will say he hasn’t been himself lately, “only” finishing second in his last two tournaments and struggling with short putts. An optimist will call the pessimists crazy and point out that Tiger has five wins in 2009 and a win at the Deutsche Bank in 2006. Believe it or not, I’m closer to the pessimist side. Don’t get me wrong – I think Tiger will be just fine and will crack the top 10 this week – but, to me, Tiger offers so little value at the sportsbook that you should only bet him when he’s a slam dunk.

Steve Stricker

Even though Tiger should win it, don’t be surprised if Steve Stricker steals player of the year honors. The plucky Stricker has two wins and five top-five finishes this season and almost always contends if the course isn’t too long – and the TPC of Boston isn’t. Thanks to his good ball striking, course management and putting, he’s a safe bet to contend…though he’s still prone to mistakes on Sundays in bigger tournaments, as he showed on 18 at the Barclays.

Padraig Harrington

I’ve led the charge of Harrington bashers this season – 2009 will go down as a year to forget for him – but Paddy is turning his game around. Despite his much-publicized meltdowns in recent tournaments, he still has three straight top-10s, including two second-place finishes. He doesn’t come without risk but think of him like you would a horse at an online racebook who is running faster than the other contenders entering the big race.

Vijay Singh

Alarm! Alarm! Many betting services will recommend Vijay like crazy this week. He’s a two-time winner of this tournament and owns both the course record and the aggregate score record. However, as kind as the Deutsche Bank has been to Vijay in the past, he’s playing terrible golf right now. He was the defending champ at the Barclays, last week’s event, and followed up the win with a missed cut.

Pick: Padraig Harrington

Video: Davies performance from the weekend

*Report: Freddinho loaned to Belenenses

*Adu heading to Belenenses on loan

*Transfer deadline deals and their impact on Americans Abroad

USMNT Studio 90: August 31

*More U.S. soccer fans need to enjoy the journey

*Underway in Utah

Bedoya plays full match for Orebro

*U.S. International Lee Nguyen Makes His Mark In Vietnam

*Jones and Castillo still awaiting FIFA clearance

Bedoya with Orebro
*He played the full 90 in a 2-0 win over Gefle.

MOTD Highlights of Yanks in Premier: Dempsey, Friedel & Howard

Howard with Everton
*He made 2 saves in a 2-1 win over Wigan.


Friedel with Aston Villa and Dempsey with Fulham
*Both played the full game in Villa's 2-0 win over Fulham.

Soccernet: Americans Abroad

Chicago White Sox vs. Minnesota Twins Betting Odds & Picks

The Chicago White Sox will be fighting to snap a losing streak on Monday when they take on the Minnesota Twins at The Metrodome.

The White Sox will give the ball to starter Gavin Floyd in this one. Righthander Floyd is 10-8 this season with a 3.95 ERA.

It'll be Nick Blackburn toeing the rubber for the Twins in this contest. Righthander Blackburn is 8-9 with a 4.29 ERA so far this season.

Bodog Sportsbook currently have the White Sox listed as 105-moneyline favorites versus the Twins, while the game's total is sitting at 9.

The White Sox lost to the Yankees 8-3 as a +205 underdog on Sunday. The 11 runs scored went OVER the posted over/under total (11).

Scott Podsednik was 3-4 with an RBI and a run scored for Chicago, while Freddy Garcia allowed three runs on four hits in six innings.

The Twins defeated Texas 5-3 as a -150 favorite on Sunday. The eight runs scored fell UNDER the posted over/under total (8.5).

Jason Kubel was 2-3 with a home run and two RBI for Minnesota, while Justin Morneau scored a pair of runs in the win.

A few trends to consider:
The total has gone UNDER in 9 of Chi White Sox's last 12 games

The total has gone UNDER in 14 of Chi White Sox's last 20 games on the road

The total has gone OVER in 8 of Chi White Sox's last 12 games when playing on the road against Minnesota

Chi White Sox are 1-6 SU in their last 7 games when playing Minnesota

Minnesota is 9-1 SU in their last 10 games when playing at home against Chi White Sox

Minnesota is 6-1 SU in their last 7 games when playing Chi White Sox

The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Minnesota's last 6 games at home

The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Minnesota's last 6 games

Next up:
Minnesota home to Chi White Sox, Tuesday, September 1

Castillo scores for Tigres

Castillo with Tigres
*He scored in a 2-2 draw with Santos.

Howard makes 2 saves in 2-1 win

Howard with Everton
*He made 2 saves in a 2-1 win over Wigan.

Houston Astros vs. Arizona Diamondbacks - Baseball Betting Odds & Stats

A winning streak will be on the line for the Arizona Diamondbacks on Sunday when they battle the Houston Astros at Chase Field.

The Astros will pin their hopes on the pitching of lefthander Wandy Rodriguez in this game. Rodriguez has a 12-8 record and a 2.82 ERA this season.

Rodriguez's opponent in this one will be Dan Haren. The Diamondbacks righthander has a 2.73 ERA to go along with a 12-8 record this season.

Oddsmakers at Bodog Sportsbook currently have the Diamondbacks listed as 135-moneyline favorites versus the Astros, while the game's total is sitting at 7½.

The Diamondbacks pounded the Astros for the second straight night with a 9-0 win on Saturday, as -130 favorites. The nine runs went UNDER the posted over/under (10).

Justin Upton went 3-for-4 at the plate with a solo home run and two runs batted in for the Diamondbacks. Jon Garland tossed seven scoreless innings for the win.

Bud Norris gave up six runs over five innings in the loss for the Astros, who were +110 underdogs.

Current streak:
Houston has lost 2 straight games.

Arizona has won 3 straight games.

A few trends to consider:
Houston is 6-12 SU in its last 18 games when playing Arizona

Houston is 3-10 SU in its last 13 games when playing on the road against Arizona

Houston is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games on the road

Houston is 1-5 SU in its last 6 games

Arizona is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games at home

Arizona is 10-3 SU in its last 13 games when playing at home against Houston

Arizona is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games

Arizona is 12-6 SU in its last 18 games when playing Houston

Yanks in England: Demerit and J. Johnson

J. Johnson with MK Dons
*He played 62 minutes in a 2-1 win over Exeter City.

Demerit with Watford
*He went the full 90 in a 1-1 draw with Swansea City.

Video: Pittman's goal for Wycombe

I haven't followed Pittman on this blog because I have always assumed he considered himself more English than American, but since there have been several blogs that have posted about this, here is the goal.

Pittman with Wycombe
*He scored the game winner in a 2-1 win over Bristol Rovers.

Yanks Down South: Vidal and Orozco

Vidal with Indios
*He played the full match in a 1-1 draw with Atlas.


Orozco with San Luis
*He played the full match in a 0-0 draw with Puebla.

Torres plays in draw with Chivas

Torres with Pachuca
*He played the full game in a 2-2 draw with Chivas.

MOTD Highlights of Yanks in Premier

Spector with West Ham
*He played the full match in a 0-0 draw with Blackburn.



Altidore with Hull
*He entered in the 63rd minute in a 1-1 draw with Wolves.

Bocanegra plays full match in draw

Bocanegra with Rennes
*He played the full match in a 2-2 draw with Lens.

Davies earns penalty in a 1-0 win over Monaco

Davies with Sochaux
*He earned the penalty and went 85 minutes in a 1-0 win over Monaco.

Yanks in the Prem: Spector and Jozy

Spector with West Ham
*He played the full match in a 0-0 draw with Blackburn.



Altidore with Hull
*He entered in the 63rd minute in a 1-1 draw with Wolves.

Feilhaber and White play in 2-0 win over Parkhurst's FC Nordsjælland

Feilhaber & White with AGF and Parkhurst with FC Nordsjælland
*Jeremiah played 61 minutes, Benny played 70, and Parkhurst played the full game in AGF's 2-0 win over FC Nordsjælland.
*Click picture for highlights.

Cherundolo plays in Hannover loss

Cherundolo with Hannover
*He played the full match in a 1-0 loss to Hoffenheim.

UFC 102 Betting: Undercard Madness !

By now, most UFC 102 fight card bettors have already made their picks…on the main card, that is. The undercards often have the best fights and, better yet, can offer you good sportsbook value. Let’s break down a few of the key undercard bouts for this Saturday.

Ed Herman (15-7) vs Aaron Simpson (5-0)

UFC 102 odds: Herman -140, Simpson +110

Though Ed Herman once flashed serious potential in the Octagon, he’s nothing more than a gatekeeper at his point. Sometimes, he slams the door shut on that gate – he dominated David Loiseau to stop his UFC comeback bid and he’ll hope to do the same against Aaron Simpson. Overall, it’s pretty easy to predict Herman’s fight results; match up him with any “legit” talent and he loses. Demian Maia, Alan Belcher, Jason McDonald and Kendall Grove all walked through him.

While we don’t know much about Aaron Simpson’s value yet, he’s started his career impressively, winning all five of his bouts by knockout. While Herman will be his toughest test yet, Simpson should prevail and start climbing the middleweight ladder. He one of the better sports picks of the night.

Betting services recommend: Simpson

Gabriel Gonzaga (10-4) vs Chris Tuchscherer (17-1-1)

UFC 102 odds: Gonzaga -360, Tuchscherer +285

Sticking with the gatekeeper theme, Gabriel Gonzaga epitomizes that role. He’s far removed from the No. 1 heavyweight contender status he earned with his lucky kick against Mirko Cro Cop. Since his recent losses came against tough competition – Randy Couture, Fabricio Werdum and Shane Carwin – we can still consider Gonzaga a “tough” opponent for anyone looking to make a name for himself in the UFC. As far as UFC debuts go, Chris Tuchscherer has a difficult assignment. You don’t get much value for him, but the smart money is on Gonzaga.

Betting services recommend: Gonzaga

Justin McCully (9-4-2) vs Mike Russow (11-1)

UFC 102 odds: McCully +210, Russow -270

Good on odds makers for making Russow the favorite and not jumping on Justin McCully simply because he’s a “name.” Russow is making his UFC debut but he looks promising. He’s a big guy at 265 pounds and he’s submitted eight fighters in his 11 wins with two knockouts to boot. McCully doesn’t knock guys out, so he has to rely on using his body leverage to set up submissions. That’s a tall order considering he’s listed at 25 pounds lighter than Russow.

Betting services recommend: Russow

Buffalo Bills vs. Pittsburgh Steelers NFL Preseason Betting Tips

The Buffalo Bills and the Pittsburgh Steelers will both be trying to pick up a win on Saturday when they battle at Heinz Field.

Sportsbetting.com currently have the Steelers listed as 6-point favorites versus the Bills, while the game's total is sitting at 36.

The Bills' rally came up short as they fell 31-21 to the Packers in Week 2 of the preseason last time out. Oddsmakers listed the Bills as 3-point underdogs in that game, while the 52 points sailed OVER the posted total of 37.5.

The Steelers lost 17-13 to the Redskins in Week 2 of the preseason last time out, as 3.5-point underdogs. That game's 30 points went UNDER the posted total of 32.

Team records:
Buffalo: 7-9 SU, 7-9 ATS

Pittsburgh: 12-4 SU, 9-7 ATS

Next up:
Buffalo home to Detroit, Thursday, September 3

Pittsburgh at Carolina, Thursday, September 3

Kick Around: Americans Abroad Best Move

*Weekend Preview

*USA's Dutch master

Cooper with 1860 Munich
*He played the full 90 in a 0-0 draw with Ahlen.
*Highlights will be up as soon as I can find them.

Kick Around: Episode 20

Q&A With Donovan

*Donovan leaving Galaxy for Europe?

*U.S. Under-20 World Cup roster announced

Barcelona-Real Madrid and Inter Milan in Group stages of Champions League

Barcelona champions will be measured with Inter Milan for the Group F Champions League 2009-2010, as Real Madrid clash with Milan (Group C) in some crosses with fantasies between Spanish and Italian giants , after the draw made on Thursday in Monaco.

The Catalans will also rivals Dinamo Kiev Ukrainian and Russian Rubin Kazan, but the big draw will see the elastic Zlatan Ibrahimovic with Barca facing his former teammates interest and the same thing in reverse in the case of Cameroon's Samuel Eto 'o, former Barca and now at Inter which will see the faces with Messi, Xavi and Iniesta, their former owners in attendance.

In addition, for Mourinho, coach of Inter, return to the Nou Camp will be special, after having taken his first steps as an assistant coach there.

"To all the team to beat, we are the European champions," said Rafael Yuste, vice president of FC Barcelona.

Also, when Real Madrid will intersect with the great expectation Milan at San Siro will see Kaka, champion in 2007 as brand reinforcement rossonero and Real Madrid, putting passes goal against his former teammates of Milan, who sold the Brazilian to the White House by about 65 million.

But there will be a duel between the two teams with more European titles. Real Madrid and home ranks among total 16 'eared' (9 Real Milan and 7).

Real, after beginning a new era 'galactic' Cristiano Ronaldo, Kaka and Karim Benzema, measured their stripes against rossonero Brazilians Ronaldinho, the former Barça, and Duck.

In the group C, Spanish and Italians are big favorites, but could struggle against the reinforced French Marseille Didier Deschamps. The Swiss Zurich seems destined to play a supporting role.

The top two from each key advance to the knockout stage, while third-placed passes to the Europa League. The fourth placed team is eliminated.

For his part, Spanish Sevilla had a favorable draw, the rivals have not much history in Champions: Glasgow Rangers, Stuttgart German and Romanian Unirea Urziceni, inside the key G.

"The truth is that we are happy, because there are many groups more difficult. We are very pleased with the draw," said Jose Castro, vice president of the Andalusian team.

A little more difficult group but with good chances of advancing to the knockout is Atletico Madrid, who in your area D clash with Chelsea English, Portuguese and Oporto Apoel of Cyprus.

The other major British can feel happy about the fate that lie Monaco hype.

Manchester United, champions of the Champions in 2008 and finalist in 2009, is the favorite in Group B, against teams well below their economic potential and football.

Russian CSKA Moscow, Besiktas Turkish and Wolfsburg, but debutant German champions in the tournament, surely fight for the second ticket.

In the E, Liverpool's Rafa Benitez will face a candidate for the French Lyon, host of the tournament eternal lineage but not to go to the end, Fiorentina of Italy, who arrived in this instance surpassing the previous round with difficulty against Sporting Portugal and the modest Hungarian Debrecen.

For its part, Arsenal's Cesc Fabregas is easy on paper against the Netherlands champion in low AZ Alkmaar, Olympiakos Greek and weak Belgian Standard Liege in group H.

More entertaining fight and announced the group A. Bordeaux, French champion, will fight to give the giants Bayern Munich and Juventus, with the arrival of Fabio Cannavaro and Felipe Melo, among others, will be thrown everything in the Champions League. Maccabi Haifa will be almost a 'guest' of luxury.

Better Quality Video of Hull vs Southend

Yanks in Europa League

Guy with St Pats
*He played and was at fault on the opposition's first goal in a 2-1 loss to Steaua Bucuresti.




Howard with Everton
*He made 10 saves in a 1-1 draw with Sigma Olomouc.



Guzan with Aston Villa
*He played the full match in a 2-1 win over Rapid Vienna. Villa is out due to away goals.

Video of Cody Arnoux's goal

*Phil Brown Expecting More Goals From Jozy Altidore

*Rogers, Finley get first call-up for U.S qualifiers


Everton 3 Burnley 0 - Watch more amazing videos here

Video: White gives tour of AGF facilities

Video: White gives tour of AGF facilities

NFL Betting – Thursday Preseason Picks

Online betting sure is heating up right now. We have the World Series on the horizon, some big UFC cards and, of course, the NFL. Ready for some Thursday night picks? Try these on for size.

Jacksonville Jaguars @ Philadelphia Eagles

Thursday, August 27, 7:00 p.m. ET

NFL picks favorite: Eagles -7

As far as we can see, the Jags/Eagles game is a fairly easy decision for bettors. Jacksonville lacks depth and is likely to be careful with its few prized offensive starters, so Maurice Jones-Drew, David Garrard and Torry Holt likely won’t play much. The Eagles boast many capable offensive backups, from A.J. Feeley at quarterback to LeSean McCoy at running back, so they should score plenty of points on a night when Michael Vick could make his return.

BSNblog Pick: Eagles -7

St. Louis Rams @ Cincinnati Bengals

Thursday, August 27, 7:30 p.m. ET

NFL picks favorite: Bengals -2.5

If Carson Palmer is healthy for Week 1, the Bengals’ NFL odds should see a nice boost, as he has a solid supporting cast in the resurgent Chad Johnson, the reliable Laveranues Coles and the talented if enigmatic Chris Henry. None of that information really helps their chances against St. Louis this week, though. Carson Palmer may not play because of his high ankle sprain, meaning the Bengals’ terrible backup quarterbacks may get the reins.

The Rams may be less cautious as they try to break in youngsters like Adam Carriker and James Laurinatis, so don’t be surprised if they’re the more motivated team. Sportsbook software recommends them.

BSNblog Pick: Rams +2.5

Miami Dolphins @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Saturday, August 27, 8:00 p.m. T

NFL picks favorite: Buccaneers -2.5

Tampa Bay is favored to win this all-Florida battle at home, but probably only because of that home field advantage. Football-wise, the Bucs have very little going for them. Antonio Bryant’s knee injury puts a big hole in their receiving corps, their quarterback situation is very murky and their defense doesn’t seem the same with Derrick Brooks and co-ordinator Monte Kiffin gone, not to mention Angel Crowell out for the year with a torn bicep.

The Dolphins have that wildcat working for them again and shouldn’t have much trouble using it to torture Tampa.

BSNblog Pick: Dolphins +2.5

Simek in Carling Cup

Simek with Sheffield Wednesday
*He played the full 90 in a 2-0 loss to Port Vale.

Grella in Carling Cup with Leeds

*Cody Arnoux scores in his Everton Reserves Debut

*Luring more athletes to play soccer the answer?

Grella with Leeds
*He set up a goal in a 2-1 win over Watford.
*Demerit did not play.

Video of Jozy's goal!

Torres plays very well in Pachuca win

Torres with Pachuca
*He played in a 5-0 win over Isidro Metapán.

Arizona Diamondbacks vs. San Francisco Giants Betting Odds & Stats

The Arizona Diamondbacks and the San Francisco Giants will both be trying to pick up a win on Wednesday when they battle at AT&T Park.

The Diamondbacks will pin their hopes on the pitching of lefthander Doug Davis in this game. Davis has a 7-11 record and a 3.77 ERA this season.

Davis's opponent in this one will be Jonathan Sanchez. The Giants lefthander has a 4.45 ERA to go along with a 6-10 record this season.

Oddsmakers at Bodog Sportsbook currently have the Giants listed as 145-moneyline favorites versus the Diamondbacks, while the game's total is sitting at 7½.

Travis Ishikawa's three-run homer in the bottom of the eighth inning was the difference, as the Giants slipped by the Diamondbacks 5-4 on Tuesday night.

San Francisco won as -145 home favorites, while the teams played OVER the 7-run total posted by sportsbooks.

Juan Uribe went yard for the Giants, as Jeremy Affeldt was credited with the win in relief of starter Matt Cain for San Francisco.

Stephen Drew and Ryan Roberts drove in two runs apiece for Arizona, while Jon Rauch was hit with the loss after coming into the game for Diamondbacks starter Dan Haren.

A few trends to consider:
Arizona is 2-6 SU in its last 8 games when playing San Francisco

Arizona is 1-6 SU in its last 7 games when playing on the road against San Francisco

Arizona is 1-8 SU in its last 9 games

Arizona is 1-10 SU in its last 11 games on the road

San Francisco is 6-1 SU in its last 7 games when playing at home against Arizona

San Francisco is 6-2 SU in its last 8 games when playing Arizona

San Francisco is 17-8 SU in its last 25 games at home

San Francisco is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games

Seattle Seahawks Reached Agreement with Edgerrin James

The Seattle Seahawks reached agreement with veteran running back Edgerrin James for a year and $ 2 million, a source confirmed the league to NFL Network.

Warrick Dunn was the other candidate.

The Seahawks announced to reporters gathered at the press conference coach Jim Mora would not comment on James until Tuesday.

James will provide depth and stability to a group of runners who have been prone to injuries.

Seattle plans to rest much weight on their running game version of the West Coast offense and James could have the chance to play a vital role.

Julius Jones is the alleged owner and T.J. Duckett substitute, but the Seahawks had been contemplating the possibility of adding another runner in recent weeks.

They contacted Warrick Dunn, who had three of his best seasons playing for Mora in Atlanta, but they preferred to James.

Remeber that you can check all the sports odds and NFL Futures Odds at Bodog Sportsbook.

San Diego Chargers Quarterback Philip Rivers Signed for 6 Years

San Diego Chargers have managed to sign their franchise quarterback with a contract to a franchise-wide. The Chargers announced that Philip Rivers has signed a contract extension until 2015.

Chargers offensive leader.

The team did not disclose terms of the contract, but Michael Lombardi of the NFL Network has confrimado the deal was for 6 years and $ 92 million, with about $ 38.5 million guaranteed.

"It'sa great day for the Chargers and their fans," said team president Dean Spanos said in a statement. "Philip has proved it has all the qualities necessary to be a successful quarterback in the NFL. It is a proven winner and an undoubted leader for this football team."

The firm will keep Rivers, the fourth overall selection in the 2004 NFL Draft out of the market in 2010, when he had become a free agent.

"We feel that Philip is a great player with a bright future," said General Manager AJ Smith. "It feels to know that will be with us for many years to come."

Rivers to "became the starting quarterback in 2006 following the departure of Drew Brees and led the team to the playoffs the past three seasons, starting 16 games during the regular season each year.

His record throughout his career as a starter, including playoffs, is 36-18 (.667), including 22-5 (.815) at home.

Yanks in Carling Cup (no clips yet)

Altidore with Hull
*He scored the game winning goal in a 3-1 win over Southend United.

Grella with Leeds
*He set up a goal in a 2-1 win over Watford.
*Demerit did not play.

Hahnemann with Wolves
*He made 1 save in a penalty kick shootout over Swindon Town.

Simek with Sheffield Wednesday
*He played the full 90 in a 2-0 loss to Port Vale.

Renken, Gyau sign deals with 1899 Hoffenheim

*Bundesliga's Hoffenheim grab Gyau, Renken

*USA youth stars Renken, Gyau sign deals with 1899 Hoffenheim

Charles Renken US Soccer Acd. Training with Dan O'Donnell

Joseph Claude Gyau

Spector plays in crazy West Ham game

Spector with West Ham
*He played the full game in a 3-1 win over Millwall.

Altidore articles and Hull assistant video

*HULL CITY: Altidore will grab his chance

*The Altidore guide to EPL survival

*Jozy Altidore makes immediate impact as Hull edge past Bolton

*Jozy puts the boot into Wanderers

Hull Assistant Manager Talks about the game

Golf Betting – Tiger On-Board For FedEx Cup

It seems like golf odds may be on the backburner right now with NFL predictions and the UFC odds on everyone’s minds but the PGA Tour is about to unveil its first real rendition of the FedEx Cup.

It’s in fact the third ever FedEx Cup but this is the first real one because it looks like Tiger Woods actually cares about it this time.

Two years ago, Woods made headlines when he decided to skip the Barclays and play at later FedEx Cup tournaments. Woods being Woods, he didn’t need to play at the Barclays but still eventually won the FedEx Cup.

The fact that Woods is getting involved is a great sign not only for the PGA Tour but for the Barclays as well. Woods has only played at 13 events this year which is the lowest among the Top 50 golfers.

But since the PGA Tour has tweaked the scoring system, they changed it so that the big golfers like Woods can’t just show up when they feel like it, win an event and go home with the Championship.

At the very least, the start of the FedEx Cup should be far more entertaining since Woods is involved. Woods is obviously among the favorites and he’s followed by Padraig Harrington, Phil Mickelson, Steve Stricker, Hunter Mahan and Sergio Garcia.

Woods might be a solid pick this week, even though he fell short at the PGA Championship. Dating back to the last three tournaments he’s played, Woods has either won or finished second in his last three tournaments.

Harrington might be a decent pick as well, but he is dicey. He had an atrocious start to the 2009 season but he’s turned it around in the last couple of weeks. Harrington finished 10th at the PGA Championship and second at the WGC-Bridgestone. He’s also got a good history at the Barclays. Last year, he finished second and in 2005, he won it outright.

Mahan is a good value play as well as far as sports picks go but he hasn’t broke through yet. He has six top-15 finishes in his last seven events but he hasn’t broken through yet.

Stick with Woods as he’s hot right now and he’s likely to put on a show.

Cooper scores again for 1860

*No PSG bid for Donovan yet

*Q. & A. With A.C. Milan’s Oguchi Onyewu

*2010 World Cup mock U.S. roster

*The 2003 U-17s: Where are they now?

Cooper with 1860 Munich
*He scored in a 3-1 loss to Karlsruhe.

Yanks in Premier: MOTD Highlights

I know I got some highlights up the other day, but MOTD highlights are always the way to go. Enjoy.

Dempsey with Fulham



Howard with Everton


Spector with West Ham

Friedel makes 10 saves in Villa win

Friedel with Aston Villa
*He made 10 saves in a 3-1 win over Liverpool.

St. Louis Cardinals vs. San Diego Padres Betting Odds & Stats

The St. Louis Cardinals and the San Diego Padres will both be trying to pick up a win on Sunday when they battle at PETCO Park.

The Cardinals will pin their hopes on the pitching of righthander John Smoltz in this game. Smoltz has a 2-5 record and a 8.32 ERA this season.

It'll be César Carrillo toeing the rubber for the Padres in this contest. Righthander Carrillo is 1-1 with a 11.88 ERA so far this season.

Oddsmakers currently have the Cardinals listed as 190-moneyline favorites versus the Padres, while the game's total is sitting at 9.

Chris Carpenter tossed seven scoreless innings, allowing just three hits as the Cardinals shut out the Padres 7-0 on Saturday. The Cardinals won the game as -200 favorites, and the seven runs went as a PUSH against the posted over/under (7).

Matt Holliday belted a three-run homer to lead the Cardinals. Carpenter improved to 14-3 with the victory.

Kevin Correia surrendered 10 hits and five runs over 5 2-3 innings in the loss for the Padres, who were +180 underdogs.

A few trends to consider:
St. Louis is 10-1 SU in its last 11 games when playing San Diego

St. Louis is 8-2 SU in its last 10 games

St. Louis is 7-2 SU in its last 9 games on the road

St. Louis is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games when playing on the road against San Diego

San Diego is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games when playing at home against St. Louis

San Diego is 3-7 SU in its last 10 games

San Diego is 1-10 SU in its last 11 games when playing St. Louis

Next up:
St. Louis home to Houston, Tuesday, August 25

San Diego at Atlanta, Tuesday, August 25

Messi and Tevez to Argentina for Crucial Qualifying

Lionel Messi and Carlos Tevez are the most prominent names the squad on Friday for the DT of the Argentina team, Diego Maradona, to the key duels against Brazil and Paraguay for South American World Cup South Africa-2010.

Against Brazil, on 5 September in the new home of Rosario (Santa Fe province, center), and against Paraguay four days later, Argentina will play much of any chance of advancing to the World Cup because so far, and four days of the end, remains in uncertainty.

As noted after the victory in the friendly against Russia (3-2) in Moscow, Maradona did not surprise changes, although in this call to the operating abroad, highlighting the calls of defender Nicolas Pareja (Espanyol, Spain) and Jesus flywheel Dátolo (Napoli, Italy), along with the return of goalkeeper Sergio Romero (AZ Alkmaar, Netherlands).

Those absent major injuries, are the defender Martin Demichelis (Bayern Munich, Germany) and midfielder Luis 'Lucho' Gonzalez (Porto, Portugal).

Moreover, Maradona wait a few days to join the players at local level, for which they are almost confirmed the names of Juan Sebastián Verón (Estudiantes), Mario Bolatti (Hurricane), Nicolas Otamendi and Emiliano Papa (Velez Sarsfield), Sebastian Battaglia (Boca).

Contested 14 rounds of the World Cup qualifiers, Brazil leads the standings with 27 points followed by Chile (26), Paraguay (24), Argentina (22), Ecuador (20), Uruguay (18), Colombia and Venezuela (17) Bolivia (12) and Peru (7).

This is the list submitted by Maradona:

Goalkeepers: Juan Pablo Carrizo (Zaragoza, Spain), Mariano Andújar (Catania, Italy), Sergio Romero (AZ Alkmaar, Netherlands).

Defenders: Javier Zanetti, Nicolas Burdisso (Inter Milan), Nicolas Pareja (Espanyol, Spain), Fabricio Coloccini (Newcastle, England), Gabriel Heinze (Olympique Marseille, France).

Midfielders: Fernando Gago (Real Madrid, Spain), Javier Mascherano (Liverpool), Maximiliano Rodriguez (Atletico Madrid, Spain), Jesus Datolo (Napoli, Italy) and Jonas Gutierrez (Newcastle, England).

Forwards: Carlos Tevez (Manchester City, England), Lionel Messi (FC Barcelona, Spain), Sergio Aguero (Atletico Madrid, Spain), Diego Milito (Inter Milan), Lisandro Lopez (Lyon, France) and Ezequiel Lavezzi (Napoli).

NFL Betting – Cutler looks to improve against Giants

Jay Cutler boosted Chicago’s NFL betting odds when he was traded from Denver, but he didn’t get off to a good start with a subpar performance in his preseason debut. He’ll try to do better when the Bears welcome the New York Giants on Saturday night.

Giants vs Bears Odds – Saturday, August 22, 8:00 PM ET

The Giants won their opener 24-17 over Carolina when Tommie Hill returned a fumble 18 yards for a score with no time left on the clock. New York was extremely balanced, passing for 140 yards while racking up 139 yards on the ground. The Giants’ defense was in fine form, forcing five turnovers out of the Panthers, but they did allow them to rush for 5.4 yards per carry, which has to be improved upon. Still, the Giants showed why many have them in their NFL picks to win the tough NFC East.

Cutler was 5-of-10 for 64 yards in a 27-20 loss to Buffalo, and his interception was one of five turnovers on the day for the Bears. Three of those came off picks by Brett Basanez, whose late touchdown pass wasn’t enough to make up for his gaffes. The Bears held the ball for 22 minutes, and that’s far too long for their defense to be on the field. Chicago also rushed for only 57 yards on 17 carries, but that should be fine by the time the regular season rolls around as starter Matt Forte was left out of the lineup.

Betting services have the Bears as a 2-point favorite at home, but the Giants have won four straight trips to Soldier Field. Cutler needs a good performance in his home debut, but he should Forte in the lineup to take some of the pressure off of him. The Giants looked very good against the Panthers, especially Osi Umenyiora, who had a sack in his first game back after missing all of last season with a knee injury. He and Justin Tuck will form one of the best pass-rush duos in the league, but they’ll probably be spared for most of this game, as the Giants don’t want a repeat of Umenyiora’s injury. The Bears will be fired at home, so give them a chance in your offshore sportsbook.

NFL Preseason Betting Picks - Tennessee Titans vs. Dallas Cowboys Odds

The Tennessee Titans and the Dallas Cowboys will both be trying to pick up a win on Friday when they battle at Cowboys Stadium.

The Dallas Cowboys are - 3 , Total 38.5 for the 2009 NFL Preseason Odds.

The Titans scored three touchdowns in the second half to rally for a 27-20 win over the Buccaneers in their preseason opener last time out. The Titans covered the 4.5-point spread, and the 47 points sailed OVER the posted total of 34.5.

The Cowboys were defeated 31-10 by the Raiders last time out, as 2.5-point underdogs. That game's 41 points made it OVER the posted total of 34.

Team records:
Tennessee: 13-3 SU, 12-3-1 ATS

Dallas: 9-7 SU, 7-9 ATS

Next up:
Tennessee at Cleveland, Saturday, August 29

Dallas home to San Francisco, Saturday, August 29

UFC 102 Preview and Picks

Preseason NFL odds not exciting enough for you? Don’t worry. UFC 102 is just over a week away and promises to give us some exciting fights. Time to make some quick picks for the event, which starts at 10:00 p.m. ET in Portland, Oregon on Saturday, August 29.

Randy Couture (16-9) vs Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira (31-5-1) – Heavyweight bout

UFC 102 betting lines: Couture -180, Nogueira +150

THE STORYLINE: Finally, two of the greatest heavyweights ever meet in a fight fans have awaited for years. The winner could get another shot at Brock Lesnar; the loser could retire.

THE PICK: Nogueira. He’s 33 years old and, while he’s an old 33, he’s still 13 years younger than Couture. He should be a step quicker standing up and he’s a Jiu-Jitsu wizard on the ground, so he can beat Randy.

Keith Jardine (14-5-1) vs Thiago Silva (13-1) – Light heavyweight bout

UFC 102 betting lines: Jardine -160, Silva +130

THE STORYLINE: Two highly ranked light heavyweights coming off disappointed losses are out to prove they’re still top contenders.

THE PICK: Silva. He’s precisely the type of fighter who historically destroys Jardine – a vicious striker who walks forward and tries to finish opponents quickly. Wanderlei Silva and Houston Alexander are similar – and they both KO’d Jardine in under a minute. Sports picks like this one are like taking candy from a baby.

Nate Marquardt (28-8-1) vs Demian Maia (10-0) – Middleweight bout

UFC 102 betting lines: Marquardt -160, Maia +130

THE STORYLINE: Each of these guys is long overdue for a title shot and the winner of this bout may get one down the road.

THE PICK: Marquardt. Maia is perhaps the best Jiu-Jitsu practitioner in the world, but he has nothing else to his game. Marquardt is extremely versatile and should be the first fighter to bully – and beat – Maia.

Krzysztof Soszynski (18-8-1) vs Brandon Vera (10-3) – Light heavyweight bout

UFC betting lines: Soszynski +150, Vera -180

THE STORYLINE: Both fighters have a long way to go, but the winner would likely vault into the top 10 and earn the right to face some big names.

THE PICK: Soszynski. With six straight wins, he’s on the rise. His ground game rocks and his striking is improving. He’ll outhustle Vera, whose desire sometimes seems iffy.

There you have it – some typical picks and a couple that probably go against your sportsbook software. Do what you wish with them and enjoy the fights.

Golf Betting – Garcia, Glover leads field into Wyndham Championship

This week’s golf odds come from the Wyndham Championship, which will be held at Sedgefield Country Club in Greensboro. Carl Pettersson is the defending champion at this event, but he’s a longshot to repeat, which hasn’t happened since Sam Snead did it in 1955-56.

Sergio Garcia (+1415) is the favorite if you’re betting online, but he’s coming off a missed cut at Hazeltine in the PGA Championship, and he has a grand total of one top-10 in 13 events this year. There isn’t much to say except stay away from Garcia this week.

Lucas Glover (+1615) has gone about his business since winning the US Open, and after missing the cut at the British Open, he rebounded with a fifth-place result in the PGA Championship. Glover finished T-20 here last year, and his driving always gives him a chance: he leads the PGA Tour in total driving.

Tim Clark (+2050) finished T-6 here in 2008, and he’s coming off a T-16 at the PGA Championship. Sedgefield isn’t a very long course, which plays right into Clark’s hands as he’s 176th in driving distance. A premium is placed on accuracy, and Clark is sixth on the Tour in that category.

David Toms (+2550) also likes the fact that Sedgefield is more of a ball-striker’s course than a bomber’s haven, and even though he was T-41 here last year, his 66 on Sunday was one of the better scores of the day. Toms is coming off a T-36 performance at Hazeltine, but he’s also missed the cut in three of his last six starts.

Boo Weekley (+4050) is our darkhorse pick, and he also finished T-36 at the PGA Championship. It’s been a tough year for the fan favorite, but he’s as pure of a ball-striker as there is on the PGA Tour, and this course is set up for him to grab his first top-10 since the second event of the season in Hawaii. If you’re a betting management player, this is the guy you want.

Pick: Lucas Glover keeps putting himself in position to win, and he’ll win another tournament before the year is out. With the weakness of this post-major field, there probably isn’t a better chance before the FedEx Cup playoffs start. Put Lucas Glover in this week’s sports picks.

Premier has Five Favorites

Without Cristiano Ronaldo, Manchester United this weekend begins the defense of the English league title in the last three years compared to some rivals hungry for success: Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool and Manchester City, the new rich English.

The output of the Portuguese towards the Real Madrid gave hope to the rest of the English Premiership clubs. From 2007 to 2009, were regular in Alex Ferguson and finished as league champions.

"Cristiano is the best player in the world, and if you lose, obviously there will be questions," accepted the United striker, Wayne Rooney. "We must play with a different style to remain winners, but I am confident that we will succeed."

The questions of who speaks striker hopes generated at parity to the islands this year. "There are five or six (teams) that are capable of fighting for the title," he dared to say Rafael Benitez, Liverpool's technical.

His club is one of those who wish to address the ship's United, who lost not just Ronaldo but the Argentinian Carlos Tevez, tempted by the tanker full of money he was offered the citizens of the City.

But Liverpool is also low. The most significant of the Spanish Xabi Alonso, key in the creation of the game. To end 20 years of drought, the Reds relied on the former side Portsmouth Glen Johnson and the Italian Alberto Aquilani, Roma bought.

"I do not think we can win the Premiership, I think that we must win," said Torres, who yesterday signed a new contract for four years with Anfield.

After winning the Community Shield to Manchester United, Chelsea's Italian Carlo Ancelotti will attempt to demonstrate that the real threat to the reign of Sir Alex Ferguson team.

"To win the Premiership and the Champions League we need identity. And I think we are on track, "said the new blue technician who not only reinforced the template, but continues to regard as Didier Drogba, John Terry and Frank Lampard.

Arsenal want to be part of the fight, but casualties of the Togolese Emmanuel Adebayor and Ivorian Kolo Toure, both sold to the City, may create doubts. Least the imperturbable and always confident Arsène Wenger.

"I feel we are strong enough. In England people think that all problems are solved by buying players. The major objective is to work hard, we can improve and enhance confidence in the players we have, "said Wenger.

At Arsenal Eduardo da Silva was recovered and is the new jewel in the quarry gunner: Jack Wilshere, a lefty mediapunta of 17 years.

For the four eternal, they link the economic power of Arab billionaire Sheikh Mansour and his Manchester City, to invest 125 million euros. Tevez, Adebayor, Gareth Barry and Paraguayan Roque Santa Cruz are the new faces with which to forget last season's team will try to give the City of batacazo.

His coach, Mark Hughes, spoke of the dream citizen: to prevent the United get the record for winning four consecutive league.

Strikeforce Betting – Carano out to Prove she’s more than a Pretty Face

Strikeforce odds for this Saturday’s card in San Jose features a little bit of history for MMA players: this will be the first time in history that a card will be headlined by women. Gina Carano and Cristiane “Cyborg” Santos will battle it out for the womens’ championship belt at 145 pounds, and Carano is looking to keep her perfect record intact.

Strikeforce Odds – Saturday, August 15, 10:30 PM ET

Carano (7-0) is more known for being a cover girl, as she’s been in Maxim, and she’s also a former American Gladiator. But Carano, who is from Dallas, is trained at Xtreme Couture, which is run by the legendary Randy Couture, so she knows her way around the octagon. This is shown by a perfect record, and she’s a very well-rounded fighter. Three of her wins have come by knockout, and despite having only one submission win, her ground technique is very good. Finally, she has stamina: three of her fights have gone the distance.

“Cyborg” (7-1) lost her first fight, and has rolled over the competition since then, knocking out five of her foes. She’s a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu artist who fights out of Chute Boxe Academy, which has housed such greats as Anderson Silva, Wanderlei Silva and “Shogun” Rua. There may be a concern about her stamina, as four of her fights have ended in the first round, but she answered those as her last two fights have gone into the third round.

Santos is a -175 favorite in this betting online matchup, and this will be a very interesting contrast in styles, despite both being well-versed in Muay Thai. Santos is a pure power puncher who goes for the home-run blow, while Carano wears her opponent down, then pounces. Carano can lull her opponents to sleep by thinking that she’ll be easy pickings because she’s pretty, but if Santos isn’t careful, Carano will be a problem. People aren’t giving Carano enough credit, and she’ll use that as motivation to be the first womens’ champion in a major MMA promotion. One thing is for sure: this exciting fight will be well worth the price per head for ticketholders.

Sports picks: Gina Carano (+145)