NCAA Football Betting – USC/California Pick

College football odds are posted for Week 5 and there’s a nice rivalry game on the schedule in USC versus California. Each team has suffered a stinging loss already this season and may be one loss away from getting knocked out of BCS contention, so this game means a lot. The Trojans want to win one for Stafon Johnson, who seriously injured this throat in a weightlifting accident, while the Golden Bears want to heal their wounded pride after losing 41-3 in Oregon last week.

(7) USC Trojans @ (24) California Golden Bears

Saturday, October 3, 8:00 p.m. ET

Sportsbook favorite: USC -5

The first thing most sports picks experts will examine is the battle between Cal’s strong offense and USC’s formidable defense. Though Cal got totally shut down in Oregon, it’s obviously a different story at home. Jahvid Best seems to be pushing for a Heisman nod; He averages 116.8 yards per game on the ground and 6.8 yards per carry, and he’s scored nine times in total through four games. He’s the focal point of California’s offense; Kevin Riley is a caretaker and a good one at that, as he has five touchdown passes versus no interceptions this season.

The Golden Bears have to hope Best catches fire and makes people miss on Saturday, as USC has one of the top defenses in the country. The Trojans average 10 points allowed per game and lead the nation with 18 sacks. Riley may feel the pressure and hand off to Best even more than normal and the Trojans may be waiting for him with eight-man fronts.

USC’s offense isn’t setting the world on fire but it’s respectable; Matt Barkley is a promising freshman pivot and isn’t making many mistakes so far. It stings to lose short-yardage sensation Stafon Johnson to his unfortunate accident, but Joe McKnight is the featured back. If last week’s game – in which Oregon ran for 236 yards and two scores against Cal – is any indication, McKnight is in for a big day.

Expect the Trojans to rally around injured Johnson; you get the feeling there’s no way they lose this one after what they’ve endured this week.

Betting services recommend: USC -5

Miami Dolphins in Troubles

If that was not enough to start the season with 0-3, Champions in the AL East last year, the Miami Dolphins, received terrible news when he publicized his quarterback Chad Pennington could be out all year with a dislocated right shoulder (still going to seek a second medical opinion).

At 33 and after two serious injuries in the shoulder in the years 2004 and 2005, Pennington is at risk of having his career ended prematurely. Indeed, it is striking that Pennington is the quarterback with the best percentage of all completions in NFL betting history. The 66.1% of their shipments online in ten-year career is over any quarterback, even as the great Joe Montana, Terry Bradshaw, Troy Aikman, Joe Namath, etc..

Video: US U17 Defeat Chelsea Youth

*America's quest to play in World Cup 2010 all hinged on one week in September

Sept. 29, 2009: Reaction - U-20 MNT 4, CMR 1

*Under-20 World Cup: USA 4, Cameroon 1 (A Look Back)

*Honda 2009 Finalist Trio Named

*U.S. v Cameroon Player Ratings

Gooch plays for Milan in CL

Oneywu with AC Milan
*He entered in the 64th minute in a 1-0 loss to Zurich.

Dallas gets a Complicated Victory

Tony Romo and the Cowboys failed to move the ball to end zone and even the kicker Nick Folk missed a field goal is important, definitely the night did not start for Dallas.

However, strangely the Carolina Panthers, a team that was viewed as dangerous offensively to have the run of DeAngelo Williams and Steve Smith air on Monday night became a weak team because of poor execution Jake Delhomme, quarterback, which in only three games and has accumulated more than five interceptions.

The Dallas Cowboys scored a victory after being the team with the greatest amount of penalties and punishments in the game. Tony Romo completed 22 passes for 255 yards and no touchdowns, his counterpart in North Carolina completed 22 passes for 220 yards, one touchdown and two interceptions.

Tony Romo to date fails to maintain a steady performance last week despite suffering a defeat did better numbers. Clearly, the absence of Marion Barber is a very important factor in Dallas, but it is likely that the fullback back to the field for next week when they face the unbeaten Denver Broncos.

U20s win 4-1 over Cameroon

*Rongen's changes bear fruit as U.S. routs Cameroon

*Under-20 World Cup: USA vs. Cameroon (Matchday Commentary)

Press Pass: Americans Abroad

NFL Betting – Week 4 Picks

The online sports betting juggernaut known as NFL football rages on as we approach the quarter mark of the season. Now that we have a good idea of who’s who in the league, it’s time to start dominating in our football picks. Let’s do it!

Oakland Raiders @ Houston Texans (-9.5)

Sunday, October 4, 1:00 p.m. ET

There’s just no possible way to frame this NFL betting line as a possible win for the Raiders. Oakland is awful, just awful, and faces a potent Houston offense on the road. The Texans have been as bad as any team defensively so far this season but that won’t matter; JaMarcus Russell is so bad that he and the Raiders won’t exploit any openings the Texans give them. Pick Houston with confidence.

Betting services recommend: Texans -9.5

Baltimore Ravens @ New England Patriots (-2)

Sunday, October 4, 1:00 p.m. ET

Is it or isn’t it? Everyone wants to know if the Patriots’ dynasty is ending. The Pats quieted critics in Week 3 – sort of. They got the win but Tom Brady struggled with his throwing mechanics and was visibly upset on the sidelines. Against the Ravens, who lead the NFL in run defense, Brady has to be better. Since Baltimore is so relentless and since its offense is catching up to its “D” thanks to Joe Flacco behind center, I like Baltimore to pull off the minor upset.

Betting services recommend: Ravens +2

New York Giants (-9) @ Kansas City Chiefs

Sunday, October 4, 1:00 p.m. ET

Here’s your lock of the week. The Giants are mowing down everyone; they stymied the Redskins, lit up the scoreboard against Dallas and shut out the Buccaneers. Eli Manning looks like a Pro Bowler so far this season and has established a nice rapport with his young wideouts. Brandon Jacobs and Ahmad Bradshaw are delivering on expectations. The Giants should score a ton and their tough pass rush should terrorize Matt Cassel and the Chiefs’ O-line. There are few safer sports picks than this one in Week 4.

Betting services recommend: Giants -9

Bedoya plays in Orebro's loss

*The SBI Questions: Ask Edgar Castillo

*Monday Morning Centerback: On the US Under-20s

*Political climate worsens in Honduras days before USA World Cup qualifier (UPDATED)

*U.S. looks to strike on the counter against Cameroon

*American striker wants to make a splash across the pond

Bedoya with Orebro
*He entered in the 54th minute in a 3-0 loss to GAIS.


Feilhaber and White with AGF
*Benny went the full 90 and Jeremiah entered in a 3-2 loss to Esbjerg.

Sept. 9, 2009: Behind the Scenes - MNT 1, TRI 0

Torres plays in loss to Santos

Torres with Pachuca
*He played the full match in a 4-0 loss to Santos.
*I normally would repost better highlights, but Jose doesn't feature in them anyway.

I have been waiting for highlights all day but no luck. If I find them tomorrow, I will post them.

Cooper with 1860 Munich
*He played the full match in a 0-0 draw with SC Paderborn 07.

Bradley with Gladbach
*He played the 2nd half in a 3-0 loss to Freiburg.

Sept. 27, 2009; U-20 MNT Prep for Cameroon

Bocanegra plays full match in Rennes loss

*U.S. U-20s fail opening test against Germany

*For U.S., first place isn't good enough

Bocanegra with Rennes
*He played the full 90 in a 1-0 loss to Bordeaux.

NFL Betting – Panthers/Cowboys Preview and Pick

The NFL week 3 matchups culminate at state-of-the-art Cowboys Stadium as the Dallas Cowboys host the Carolina Panthers this Monday night. Can America’s team get its first win in its new home after last week’s heartbreak against the Giants?

Carolina Panthers @ Dallas Cowboys

Monday, September 28, 8:35 p.m. ET

NFL odds favorite: Cowboys -8.5

After Dallas crumbled late versus the Giants last week, it wants to take out its frustration. The Carolina Panthers may be just the team to play punching bag for the Cowboys.

Tony Romo was horrible for the Cowboys last week, throwing three picks and struggling with his accuracy all night. The Panthers have been quite beatable so far, however. Matt Ryan lit them up last week and Donovan McNabb found the end zone with several passes the week before. Perhaps the problem is Carolina’s inability to rush the passer. The Panthers have just two sacks in two games and Julius Peppers is under the gun after struggling mightily to start the year. Tony Romo should have way more time to throw the ball this week.

The Cowboys should also run wild on Carolina. Even if Marion Barber sits the game out, explosive Felix Jones can handle starting duties. Workhorse Tashard Choice, who excelled down the stretch filing in for Barber and Jones last season, is also up to the task. The Panthers are allowing 168 yards rushing so far this season, so the Dallas runners are licking their chops.

Though the Cowboys are a pretty safe betting management pick to cover, you should bet over the total of 47, as the Panthers should score a lot too. Dallas ranks 30th in the NFL in total defense after losing to the Giants and letting the Bucs run wild on them in week 1. The Cowboys will keep a lid on Jake Delhomme – everyone does nowadays – but DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart could both have big days.

Top off your NFL picks by betting on the Cowboys to cover the 8.5-point spread and go over the 47-point total.

Yanks in League One: Grella, Johnson, and Pittman

Grella with Leeds and Johnson with MK Dons
*Both played the full match in a 1-0 win for Leeds.

Pittman with Wycombe
*He played 76 minutes in a 1-1 draw with Swindon Town.

Davies goes full 90 in Sochaux loss

Davies with Sochaux
*He played the full match in a 2-1 loss to AS Nancy Lorraine.

Yanks Down South: Castillo and Orozco

Orozco with San Luis
*He went 59 minutes in a 3-0 loss to Chiapas.


Castillo with Tigres
*He played the full match in 2-1 loss to Atlas.

U-20 Post Game Reaction

Yanks in Premier: MOTD Highlights

Jozy with Hull

Liverpool v Hull City





Dempsey with Fulham

Fulham v Arsenal





Friedel with Aston Villa

Blackburn v Aston Villa





Howard with Everton

Portsmouth v Everton

Dempsey plays in loss to Arsenal

Dempsey with Fulham
*He played the full 90 in a 1-0 loss to Arsenal.

Dolo plays with Hannover in loss

Cherundolo with Hannover
*He played the full match in a 4-2 loss to Wolfsburg.
*Zizzo made the bench but didn't play.

U.S. U20s Fall To Germany 3-0

Jozy plays last 7 minutes in big loss to Liverpool

Altidore with Hull
*He entered in the 83rd minute in a 6-1 loss to Liverpool.

YA Keeper Highlights: Friedel and Howard

Friedel with Aston Villa
*He made 2 saves in a 2-1 loss to Blackburn.


Howard with Everton
*He made 3 saves in a 1-0 win over Pompey.

United States U-20 vs Germany - Preview From Egypt

LSU vs. Mississippi State Betting Odds

The LSU Tigers and the Mississippi State Bulldogs will both be gunning for a victory on Saturday when they meet at Davis Wade Stadium at Scott Field.

Sportsbetting.com currently have the Tigers listed as 12-point favorites versus the Bulldogs, while the game's total is sitting at 44.

LSU took it to state rival Louisiana-Lafayette, scoring a 31-3 victory at Tiger Stadium in Week 3.

LSU covered as a 27-point home favorite while the final score played under the 53.5-point total.

Mississippi State won a 15-3 slugfest with Vanderbilt at Vanderbilt Stadium in Week 3.

MSU covered as a 8.5-point road underdog while the final score played under the 45.5-point total.

Current streak:
LSU has won 3 straight games.

Team records:
LSU: 3-0 SU, 1-2 ATS

Mississippi State: 2-1 SU, 1-1 ATS

LSU most recently:
When playing in September are 10-0

When playing on grass are 5-5

After outgaining opponent are 7-3

When playing within the conference are 5-5

Mississippi State most recently:
When playing in September are 5-5

When playing on grass are 5-5

After outgaining opponent are 3-7

When playing within the conference are 3-7

A few trends to consider:
LSU is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing Mississippi State

The total has gone OVER in 5 of LSU's last 5 games when playing Mississippi State

LSU is 5-0 ATS in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Mississippi State

LSU is 6-1 SU in its last 7 games when playing on the road against Mississippi State

The total has gone OVER in 5 of Mississippi State's last 5 games when playing LSU

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

Mississippi State is 2-10 ATS in its last 12 games when playing LSU

Mississippi State is 1-6 SU in its last 7 games when playing at home against LSU

NFL Betting Injuries - Nick Hardwick 8 Weeks off the Field

The center of the offensive line in San Diego, Nick Hardwick underwent surgery on his left ankle last Wednesday, the team announces that it will be off the field for at least eight weeks and choose not to reveal details of the injury or surgery .

Hardwick, a veteran of six years with the San Diego Charges, member of the Pro-Bowl in 2006, suffered a severe blow on September 14 in the debut season in Oakland. He missed the 31-26 home loss against the Baltimore Ravens and is so far that dictates the severity of the injury.

The San Diego Chargers concern to managers and fans, the team this season has lost important offensive and defensive players, which has been reflected significantly in the statistical results and conclusively on the scoreboard.

It is highly likely that LaDainian Tomlinson lost a new party, Shawne Merriman is also limited in practice. The Chargers' offense only has Darren Sproles to work most of the land and the defensive strength of the franchise could falter. Coach Norv Turner says the workouts have been favorable in this theme, however also said that they have reviewed the list of players to add a new name to their roster.

"I would not be in a position like this." Norv Turner said. "It's hard to lose a player regardless of the weather. I hope everything is settled, for now we have Scott Mruczkowski as a reserve in the center, but clearly we must be mobilized soon. "

Audio: Keller on '89 U-20 World Cup

Keller on '89 U-20 World Cup

YA Weekend Schedule

SATURDAY

Tim Howard and Everton play Portsmouth.
Brad Friedel, Brad Guzan and Aston Villa play Blackburn Rovers.
Jozy Altidore and Hull City play Liverpool.
Clint Dempsey, Eddie Johnson and Fulham play Arsenal.
Frank Simek and Sheffield Wednesday play Cardiff City.
Jemal Johnson and Milton Keynes Dons play Mike Grella and Leeds United.
Jon-Paul Pittman and Wycombe Wanderers play Swindon Town.
Zak Whitbread and Millwall play Leyton Orient.
Ian Joyce and Southend United play Oldham Athletic.
DaMarcus Beasley, Maurice Edu and Rangers play Aberdeen.
Jermaine Jones and Schalke 04 play Borussia Dortmund.
Steve Cherundolo, Sal Zizzo and Hannover 96 play VfL Wolfsburg.
Luis Robles and Kaiserslautern play Karlsruhe.
Charlie Davies and Sochaux play AS Nancy Lorraine.
Michael Parkhurst and FC Nordsjaelland play Odense BK.
Edgar Castillo and UANL play Atlas.
Michael Orozco and San Luis play Chiapas.
Marco Vidal and Indios de Ciudad Juarez play U.A. de G.

SUNDAY

Marcus Hahnemann and Wolverhampton Wanderers play Sunderland.
Oguchi Onyewu and AC Milan play Bari.
Michael Bradley and Borussia Moenchengladbach play SC Freiburg.
David Yeldell and TUS Koblenz play FC Augsburg.
Kenny Cooper and 1860 Munich play SC Paderborn 07.
Carlos Bocanegra and Rennes play Bordeaux.
Dan Califf and FC Midtjylland play Sonderjyske.
Marcus Tracy and Aalborg play FC Copenhagen.
Jose Francisco Torres and Pachuca play Santos.
Troy Perkins and Valerenga play Bodo/Glimt.
Clarence Goodson, Hunter Freeman and IK Start play Sandefjord.

MONDAY

Jonathan Spector and West Ham United play Manchester City.
Kamani Hill and Guimares play Uniao de Leiria.
Benny Feilhaber, Jeremiah White and AGF Aarhus play Esbjerg.
Alejandro Bedoya and Orebro SK play GAIS.

Courtesy SBI

US U-20’s in Egypt: Ike Opara Gets Haircut

*SBI's Friday Free Kicks: On the USA U-20s, USMNT defenders and more

*DeMerit doubtful for qualifiers with eye injury

*Report: United States to play Netherlands in 2010

*Talented number of options are available to U.S. south of border

*Cadiz tried to land Adu

*Patient Edu Making Progress

Ball State Cardinals vs. Auburn Tigers Betting Odds and Picks

The Ball State Cardinals and the Auburn Tigers will both be gunning for a victory on Saturday when they meet at Jordan-Hare Stadium.

Sportsbetting.com currently have the Tigers listed as 33-point favorites versus the Cardinals, while the game's total is sitting at 56.

Army put up a touchdown in the fourth quarter in Week 3 to give them a 24-17 win over Ball State.

The Black Knights failed to cover the 9-point spread in that contest, while the combined score fell just UNDER the day's posted total (42).

Auburn scored 21 points in the second half as they got past West Virginia 41-30 in Week 3. Auburn covered the 7-point spread, while the 71 points sailed OVER the night's posted total of 55.

Chris Todd threw for 289 yards with four touchdowns to lead the way.

Current streak:
Ball State has lost 3 straight games.

Auburn has won 3 straight games.

Team records:
Ball State: 0-3 SU, 0-2 ATS

Auburn: 3-0 SU, 3-0 ATS

Ball State most recently:
When playing in September are 6-4

When playing on grass are 3-7

After outgaining opponent are 8-2

When playing outside the conference are 4-6

Auburn most recently:
When playing in September are 8-2

When playing on grass are 5-5

After being outgained are 4-6

When playing outside the conference are 8-2

A few trends to consider:
Ball State is 6-2 SU in its last 8 games on the road

Ball State is 12-5 SU in its last 17 games

Ball State is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games

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

Auburn is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games

Full highlights of Guzan in Carling Cup

Guzan with Aston Villa
*He made 6 saves in a 1-0 win over Cardiff City.

Donovan: American Soccer Future

*Donovan: Win at Honduras, don't leave it to chance

*JOZY ALTIDORE: A Star in Stripes

*McBride and Donovan at MLK High School, NYC

Better Quality Highlights of Coop's Goal

Highlights of Johnson with Fulham in the Carling Cup

Johnson with Fulham
*He played 91 minutes in a 2-1 loss to Man City.

Full highlights of Hahnemann's game against Man U

NFL Betting – Week 3 Picks

Finding a good NFL betting line upset was tough the first few weeks since we didn’t really know just how good or bad each team was. Now, with a pair of games in the books, things are taking shape. That means we can find slam-dunk picks and, more importantly, spot the big upset easier. Let’s try a few NFL picks on for size.

New York Giants (-6) @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Sunday, September 27, 1:00 p.m. ET

Eli Manning may have taken his game to a new level in leading the Giants to a come-from-behind victory against the Cowboys last week. Lacking a true No. 1 receiver, he’s made the most of Steve Smith and Mario Manningham and is suddenly developing a nice rapport with them. After handling Washington and Dallas’ solid defenses, he should have no trouble picking apart the disappointing Tampa unit. Byron Leftwich and the Bucs offense have been better than expected but they aren’t prepared for the swarming Giants front seven. It could get ugly.

Betting services recommend: Giants -6

Washington Redskins (-6.5) @ Detroit Lions

Sunday, September 27, 1:00 p.m. ET

OK, folks – here’s the first big upset pick of the season. Think about it. The Redskins are favored by a touchdown on the road when they barely got by the Rams last week, scraping by 9-7. Now, they face a Lions team with much better offensive weapons that St. Louis. Matt Stafford may have the time he needs to avoid getting flustered; the Redskins haven’t gotten to the quarterback, recording only two sacks through two games. Don’t be surprised if Calvin Johnson goes off. Even if you don’t think the Lions will win, don’t you think they can beat a 6.5 spread at home against an anemic offense?

Betting services recommend: Lions +6.5

San Francisco 49ers @ Minnesota Vikings (-6.5)

Sunday, September 27, 1:00 p.m. ET

Time to really find out if the 49ers’ NFL odds are legit. Frank Gore carved up Seattle, but can he handle the Williams Wall? If the Vikings shut him down, San Fran will have to throw the ball. Shaun Hill seems more like a caretaker despite his good win-loss record; I don’t think he can carry the 49ers when he needs to. The 49er “D” has been strong but facing Adrian Peterson is a major upgrade from Tim Hightower and Julius Jones.

Betting services recommend: Vikings -6.5

Sept 23: U-20 WC Cyprus Recap

Cooper scores for 1860!

Cooper with 1860 Munich
*He scored in a 2-2 draw which 1860 eventually won in penalties over Hertha Berlin.
*I have reached a new level of desperation with the quality of highlights I am giving you, but it is the best I've got right now.

Adu makes debut for Belenenses

Adu with Belenenses
*He entered in the 64th minute in a 1-0 loss to Rio Ave.

Yanks in Carling Cup: Guzan, Howard, Hahnemann, and Johnson

Guzan with Aston Villa
*He made 6 saves in a 1-0 win over Cardiff City.


Howard with Everton
*He made 6 saves in a 4-0 win over Hull.


Hahnemann with Wolverhampton
*He made 6 saves in a 1-0 loss to Man U.

Landon Donovan On US And MLS Future

*The next Kings of Egypt

*Politics could force USA-Honduras qualifier to neutral site

*2010 World Cup mock U.S. roster

*The Under-20 World Cup gets underway Thursday and the USA will play their first game on Saturday against Germany

Bradley plays full match for Gladbach

*Adu confident he'll play soon

Bradley with Gladbach
*He played the full 90 in a 1-0 loss to Duisburg.

Marion Barber Return to the Dallas Cowboys Betting Odds Unknown

Dallas Cowboys reported that the running back Marion Barber have a quadriceps injury and his return to the field is to date unknown. This event is definitely an aggressive coup against the team's offensive line, but Tony Romo has been excelling statistically, it was Marion Barber who stands on the field running and building big plays for the Cowboys.

Head coach Wade Philips said Barber underwent an MRI on Monday afternoon, a day after being injured on a carry of 35 yards in the fourth quarter of the 33-31 defeat they suffered against the New York Giants.

"We do not know what happens to Barber." Philips said. "I think the injury will not be a problem for us, I think we were lucky in this case."

Barber made a carry of 35 yards, just as he distanced himself and opened the field to even reach the end zone, Barber fell to the ground holding his leg showing sharp pain, then left the area on foot seizing the opportunity to get more points in the score for his team.

Barber got 18 carries for 124 yards and a touchdown, the first recorded in the new stadium of the franchise. On Monday Night Football Dallas will host the Carolina Panthers with its powerful air defense, that's when the Cowboys will have to move the ball on the ground, transforming Barber's injury a danger to your computer.

MNT v SLV - BTS Spector Part 2

*Getting Their Legs Back

*U-20 MNT Notes from Egypt

Spector plays 120 minutes in a loss to Bolton

Horrible highlights, but they were the best I could find.

Spector with West Ham
*He went 120 minutes in a 3-1 loss to Bolton.

Grella is late sub in Leeds loss

*Hill Nearing Guimarães Debut

Grella with Leeds
*He played the last 9 minutes in a 1-0 loss to Liverpool.

Leeds 0 v 1 Liverpool 22/09/09
by sparkyman2

Yanks in Premier: Howard, Jozy, Friedel, and Dempsey

I missed the action this week, so this was the best I could do in a short amount of time. If there are highlights from the weekend that you would like me to put up that you missed, please just let me know in the comment section.

*ESPN platforms to air all 52 Under-20 World Cup matches

*Americans Abroad: Weekend Rewind

Howard with Everton


Altidore with Hull


Friedel with Aston Villa


Dempsey with Fulham

Press Pass: Americans Abroad

MNT v SLV - BTS Spector Part 1

PGA Betting – Tour Championship Preview

Maybe Monday’s NFL betting line scares you too much after so many upsets have occurred in the first two weeks of the football season. If betting NFL is so risky right now, why not go for higher upside and bet some golf? Here are some picks to consider for the Tour Championship, which is the last FedEx Cup playoff event.

Tiger Woods (+125)

It’s been a strange year for Tiger, who’s been “off his game” yet has six wins. After winning two weeks ago, his +125 odds to win are the best he’s had all year. Driving accuracy be damned; Tiger is back in one of his grooves and seems poised to win another tournament. He won the Tour Championship at the same host course, East Lake, two years ago, so he’s comfortable there.

Zach Johnson (+2050)

Johnson’s short, accurate golf shots have served him well in 2009, leading to two wins and countless other weeks of contending in online sports betting. While He hasn’t won at East Lake, he knows what it takes to set it on fire; he holds the course record at 60. He played well at the BMW two weeks ago so it wouldn’t be a stretch to see him flourish this week.

Mike Weir (+5250)

Weir has quietly enjoyed a resurgence this season, posting eight top-20 finishes. While he has just two top-10s, he’s always in the hunt through the weekend. On a course like East Lake that rewards accuracy, Weir’s solid putting stroke and short game make him an intriguing sports pick, especially with his big value.

Padraig Harrington (+1415)

Paddy’s turnaround is almost complete. After no top 10s in his first 15 tournaments this season, the 2008 Player of the Year has five straight top-10s. He’s playing good golf when it matters, especially when it comes to scrambling and putting. Could he finally break through and win the last big tourney of the year?

Betting services recommend: Tiger Woods +125. The key with Tiger is to follow his streaks; when he’s playing with confidence, there’s no point betting against him. He should inch one step closer to Jack Nicklaus this week.

Barcelona Won 5-2 over Atletico Madrid thanks to Messi

Lionel Messi returned to win the game against his fellow Argentine Sergio Aguero and became the great star of saturday's victory Barcelona over Atletico Madrid 5-2 in Spanish league football.

Messi, who on Friday extended his contract with the Catalan club until 2016 and became the highest-paid footballer in the world, scored two goals and assisted on another as to consolidate the team as Barca Spanish championship leader.

As in the last league game played between them in the Camp Nou (Barcelona won 6-1), the homeowner won at the initial half hour match and then spent the second half to regulate the physical.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic scored the first goal of the night two minutes of play. Then the 'Flea' increased with an excellent definition, in the 16th minute, while Dani Alves free-kick increased, at 30 '. Thus, Seydou Keita scored the fourth goal in the 41 'and Messi himself closed the account for the 92'.

For its part, the very Agi ¿½ ero discounted in the final minute of the first half and Diego Forlan decorated the result, at 84 '. Thus, the Barcelona football showed an abysmal difference compared to Aleti and established himself as leader of the League. Meanwhile, just joined Atletico a point from three games and are located on the second bottom in the standings.

"I'm very happy with the result. We could make our game in the first half showed that we played very, very well. In the second half we relaxed, but it was evident, according to the result," said Zlatan Ibrahimovic.

Sevilla missed the absence of Luis Fabiano and visitor beat Osasuna 2-0 to add his second consecutive win in the league and end a streak of eleven official visits to Pamplona without victory.

"I remember the last time we won in Pamplona, I was on the field. So I was very happy to have cut this run and maintain the winning philosophy of Seville," said coach Manolo Jimenez.

The coach decided to marginalize the call to Luis Fabiano, who suffered some muscle discomfort, for the run of games.

The visit found the tools to operate without the Brazilian and, indeed, took all three points thanks to a goal from every striker Alvaro Negredo opened the scoring in the 36th minute, while Frederick Kanoute sentenced the 69 '.

The main virtue to be found in the posing of Manolo Jimenez is based on their ability to perform the parts in the computer. Without completely change the structures, managed to get a good physical performance of each player and kept the same game plan.

So solidly replace Adriano did Jesus Navas on the right wing, while Alvaro Negredo proved perfect for Sevilla's starting forwards.

Argentine winger fulfilled another giant task and made a new dedication to earn a call from Diego Maradona, facing the last days of South American qualifying.

Mallorca maintained the strength of local and thrashed 4-0 at Tenerife, to register as temporary escort of Barcelona.

Mario Suarez opened the score at 16 minutes. Meanwhile, Nathan Eccleston and Julio Alvarez buried the hopes of the visitors early in the second half (50 'and 58') and Pierre Webó sealed the win with a penalty both at the 88th.

Tenerife suffered the expulsion of Ezequiel Luna (76 ') and Marc Bertrand (87), on the play that caused the fourth goal of the criminal Mallorca.

LaDainian Tomlinson Absent in Trainings

The San Diego Chargers face the Baltimore Ravens, a truly hostile defensive in the field particularly when it comes to stopping big races, and while the team prepares hard, LaDainian Tomlinson can not recover from an ankle injury.

That was the best rider of the League and even a few years ago, now becomes a player plagued by injuries, while not ruled out playing the next game against Baltimore, it is clear that LaDainian Tomlinson may not be 100 % in the field, even with great effort and a grave danger of suffering a serious injury that lingers even more during the regular season.

To make matters worse the San Diego Chargers center Nick Hardwick maintain and right guard Louis Vasquez on the injured list.

"We have no rules of probability on our side." Turner said in November, coach of the Chargers. "Players who have practiced today have the best chance of winning. The rest of the players, those injured or who have failed to train, your chances begin to fade. "

The team eventually will have to rely on the strength of Darren Sproles, who last season corrected most of the mistakes he made the offensive line, meanwhile LaDainian Tomlinson becomes a player who commits his team and himself, now that back from the worst season of his career.

NFL Week 2 Odds and Picks

The NFL week 2 matchups offer a nice blend of slam dunks, surprise picks and straight-up fun games to watch. Let’s try a few spread picks.

Cincinnati Bengals @ Green Bay Packers (-9)

Sunday, September 20, 1:00 p.m. ET

The Packers were impressive last week but for a different reason than expected. Instead of showcasing their juggernaut offense, the Pack unveiled a dominant, athletic young defense that made life miserable for Jay Cutler and the Bears. If they could manhandle the Bears, they shouldn’t have any trouble against a suspect Cincinnati line and a less mobile quarterback in Carson Palmer. Green Bay’s O-line was a concern last week but Aaron Rodgers will find a way to put points on the board anyway. The Packers are safe NFL picks to cover the spread.

Betting software recommends: Packers -9

Carolina Panthers @ Atlanta Falcons (-6)

Sunday, September 20, 1:00 p.m. ET

Considering how bad Jake Delhomme was against the Eagles last week, turning the ball over five times, it’s amazing that the NFL betting spread is just six points. Delhomme was so atrocious that he affected his entire team indirectly. His turnovers kept the Panther “D” on the field forever, so it tired out and got beat by Donovan McNabb. Because the Eagles didn’t have to respect his arm, they stacked the box against DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart, holding them to 72 yards on 25 carries. The same should happen this week, as Matt Ryan, Tony Gonzalez and the balanced Falcon attack should torch a tired Panther “D” and force a few giveaways.

Betting software recommends: Falcons -6

Baltimore Ravens @ San Diego Chargers (-3)

Sunday, September 20, 4:15 p.m. ET

Were the Chargers a bit rusty last week or is something up? They had a decent amount of trouble getting past Oakland, so that doesn’t bode well for their chances against Baltimore. The Ravens did, however, have an easy opponent in Kansas City, so we have to take their big win with a grain of salt. The key may be Baltimore’s passing game, which looked great against the Chiefs. Joe Flacco and company won’t be that good every week, but they do look improved and the Chargers’ pass defense isn’t anything special. Pick the Ravens.

Betting software recommends: Ravens +3

YA Weekend Schedule

SATURDAY
Jozy Altidore and Hull City play Birmingham.
Brad Friedel, Brad Guzan and Aston Villa play Portsmouth.
Jonathan Spector and West Ham play Liverpool.
Jay DeMerit and Watford play Leicester City.
Ian Joyce and Southend United play Brighton.
Mike Grella and Leeds United play Gillingham.
Zak Whitbread and Millwall play Huddersfield Town.
Jon-Paul Pittman and Wycombe Wanderers play Jemal Johnson and Milton Keynes Dons.
DaMarcus Beasley, Maurice Edu and Rangers play Kilmarnock.
Michael Bradley and Borussia Moenchengladbach play TSG Hoffenheim.
Steve Cherundolo, Sal Zizzo and Hannover 96 play Borussia Dortmund.
Charlie Davies and Sochaux play Valenciennes.
Carlos Bocanegra and Stade Rennes play Grenoble.
Marcus Tracy and Aalborg play Silkeborg IF.
Michael Orozco and San Luis play Cruz Azul.
Edgar Castillo and UANL play Marco Vidal and Indios de Ciudad Juarez.
Jose Francisco Torres and Pachuca play Monterrey.

SUNDAY
Tim Howard and Everton play Blackburn Rovers.
Marcus Hahnemann and Wolverhampton Wanderers play Clint Dempsey, Eddie Johnson and Fulham.
Oguchi Onyewu and AC Milan play Bologna.
Kenny Cooper and TSV 1860 Munich play Alemania Aachen.
Luis Robles and Kaiserslautern play St. Pauli.
Freddy Adu and Belenenses play Academica de Coimbra.
Michael Parkhurst and FC Nordsjaelland play Esbjerg.
Alejandro Bedoya and Orebro SK play Kalmar FF.
Troy Perkins and Valerenga play Lyn.

MONDAY
Benny Feilhaber, Jeremiah White and AGF Aarhus play Danny Califf and FC Midtjylland.
Clarence Goodson, Hunter Freeman and IK Start play Viking.

Schedule courtesy SBI.

Video: U-20's Team Integration

*Purchase your 2009 Homeless World Cup Tee Shirt - Limited Edition

*SBI'S Friday Free Kicks: On Jermaine Jones

U-20's Arrive in Cyprus

Yanks in Europa League: Howard

*Despite uphill battle, U.S. leads qualifying fight

Howard with Everton
*He made 3 saves in a 4-0 win over AEK Athens.

Torres helps Pachuca in Champions League Win

Torres with Pachuca
*He played 75 minutes in a 2-0 win over the Dynamo.

Ohio State vs. Toledo College Football Betting Odds & Stats

The Ohio State Buckeyes and the Toledo Rockets will both be trying to pick up a win on Saturday when they battle at Glass Bowl.

Sportsbetting currently have the Buckeyes listed as 20½-point favorites versus the Rockets, while the game's total is sitting at 58.

Ohio State was defeated 18-15 by USC in Week 2 as 7-point underdogs. The teams played UNDER the posted total of 45.5.

Daniel Herron had 44 yards rushing with a touchdown in that loss for Ohio State.

Aaron Opelt threw four touchdown passes and ran for a pair of scores to lead Toledo to a 54-38 victory over Colorado in Week 2, as 4-point underdogs. That game's 92 points sailed OVER the posted total of 56.

Opelt finished with 319 yards passing in that contest, and rushed for 109 yards off eight carries.

Team records:
Ohio State: 1-1 SU, 1-1 ATS

Toledo: 1-1 SU, 1-1 ATS

Ohio State most recently:
When playing in September are 8-2

When playing on turf are 8-2

After being outgained are 10-0

When playing outside the conference are 6-4

Toledo most recently:
When playing in September are 3-7

When playing on turf are 3-7

After outgaining opponent are 2-8

When playing outside the conference are 4-6

A few trends to consider:
Ohio State is 5-0 ATS in its last 5 games on the road

Ohio State is 17-3 SU in its last 20 games on the road

Ohio State is 19-6 SU in its last 25 games

Toledo is 7-3 ATS in its last 10 games at home

The total has gone OVER in 4 of Toledo's last 6 games

The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Toledo's last 6 games at home

Toledo is 2-5 SU in its last 7 games at home

Boxing Betting – Mayweather vs Marquez Preview and Pick

Online betting players have a tough choice this Saturday; do they watch boxing or UFC? If you’re more of a boxing fan, keep reading. Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Juan Manuel Marquez meet Saturday in a battle between top-ranked pound-for-pound fighters. Is Marquez a legit challenge for Mayweather or will he become just another face in the crowd?

Juan Manuel Marquez (55-4-1) is a tough opponent – fast, capable of knocking guys out and comfortable climbing weight classes. The big question, however, is if he brings anything to the table Mayweather (39-0) hasn’t seen before. Marquez is fast, but Mayweather is known for being the fastest guy around. Marquez has KO ability, but Mayweather has the nickname “Pretty Boy Floyd” for a reason; no one can hit him, so his face never gets touched when he fights. Even if Marquez does get a hand on Mayweather, it’s hard to say if he’ll do any damage; Mayweather is the bigger fighter, meaning he’ll feel Marquez’s shots less and inflict more damage with his own punches.

Some betting management experts think rustiness could be an X-factor going against Mayweather, who hasn’t fought for almost two years. But Marquez is 36, past his prime and four years older than Mayweather, so it’s tough to imagine him being the fresher fighter.

The Mayweather Marquez odds could shift if Marquez finds a way to outsmart Mayweather. He could try to assault him with body blasts, but plenty of Mayweather’s other opponents entered fights with that strategy only to whiff again and again as Mayweather avoided getting hit.

Though he’s been retired for a while, Mayweather still has a reason to be hungry; at 39-0, he’s 11 wins away from breaking Rocky Marciano’s perfect career mark of 49-0. If he could break that record – and beat Manny Pacquiao along the way – he’d retire among the sport’s all-time greats.

Go with Mayweather Jr. at -425 in your sports picks. He’s younger, bigger, faster, and hungrier than people may think.