Author: Kyle Hunter

Kyle Hunter sports picks – A degree in finance and a great ability to follow important trends and statistics set him apart from the rest. Totals are Kyle's specialty, so look for a lot of totals picks from NBA, NCAAF, & the NFL. Check out his plays today.

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NFL

Week 8: Jaguars vs. Texans NFL Preview & Free Pick

Jacksonville Jaguars (2-5) vs. Houston Texans (4-3)

Time/Date: 4:15 PM EST, October 30, 2011
Venue: Reliant Stadium
Broadcast: CBS
Jaguars vs. Texans Gambling Odds from JustBet
Spread: Texans -9.5
Moneyline: Texans (-425) Jaguars (+345)
Over/Under: 41

Jacksonville shined bright in the spotlight of Monday Night Football last week. The Jaguars pulled off a shocking 12-7 win over the Baltimore Ravens. Now, they’ll have to travel west to Houston and take on an impressive Texans team on short rest. Houston has high hopes for this season, and this is precisely the type of game they cannot afford to lose if they are going to get into the playoffs.

The Jaguars have turned to rookie Blaine Gabbert as their starting quarterback. The reviews on Gabbert’s performance in his first few games in the NFL have been mixed. Gabbert has only thrown two interceptions, but he also has completed just 48% of his passes. Maurice Jones-Drew had issues with fumbling last week, but he has had a very solid start to the season. MJD is averaging 4.6 yards per carry, which is particularly impressive considering the opponent is constantly loading the box against Jacksonville’s offense. Gabbert doesn’t have a very good group of receivers. Jacksonville really needs to find a play maker to stretch the defense on the outside.

Jacksonville’s defense played an amazing game last Monday night. Now, they’ll have to face a very tough Texans offense. The Jaguars don’t have too many stars on defense, but they do have a lot of players who play their position wisely. This is a unit that has no clear cut strengths or weaknesses. The play of Tyson Alualu has been a nice surprise in the middle of the defensive line.    [soliloquy id=”82219″]

Houston is committed to shedding the image of a team that chokes away its playoff chances. Every year the experts believe this team is going to get over the top, but they find a way to miss the playoffs. The team is much more well-rounded this year than they have ever been before. The signing of Johnathan Joseph has really helped their secondary. Houston had the worst secondary in football at this time last year, but this year they rank eighth in the NFL against the pass. Brian Cushing is the team’s main play maker in the middle of the defense, and J.J. Watt has provided another good pass-rusher on the outside.

Matt Schaub has been a solid quarterback for the last few years, and he is off to another good start this year. Schaub has thrown 12 touchdowns compared to just five interceptions. He has a quarterback rating of 96.8. Andre Johnson may well be the best receiver in the NFL, but he has missed the last two games. He is listed as a game-time decision in this one. Arian Foster is healthy again, and he is doing damage both in the running and passing game. Foster is averaging 4.1 yards per carry, and he also has 21 receptions already this year.

Jacksonville’s defense is solid, but I can’t see their offense putting up too many points in this one. Houston should load up the box and make Gabbert beat them through the air. This should stay low scoring.

Free NFL Pick: Jaguars/Texans under 41

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NFL

Week 8: Patriots vs. Steelers Preview & Free NFL Pick

New England Patriots (5-1) vs. Pittsburgh Steelers (5-2)

Time/Date: 4:15 PM EST, October 30, 2011
Venue: Heinz Field
Broadcast: CBS
Patriots vs. Steelers Gambling Odds from 5Dimes
Spread: Patriots -2.5
Moneyline: Patriots (-140) Steelers (+120)
Over/Under: 52

It’s a matchup of the top two teams in the AFC this Sunday in Pittsburgh. The Steelers and the Patriots have both won three straight games. New England has had two weeks to prepare for this one, but it will be a difficult environment for the Patriots at Heinz Field. This could easily be a preview of the AFC Championship Game. This is the best game on the schedule this weekend.

Tom Brady has a 6-1 career record against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Last year the Patriots went into Heinz Field and won 39-26. Brady leads the AFC with 2,163 passing yards this year. He has an impressive quarterback rating of 104.5. Wes Welker has been an absolute beast in the slot receiver spot for the Patriots this year. Welker has 785 receiving yards in just six games. Rob Gronkowski and Aaron Hernandez give the Patriots the best tight end tandem in all of football. They have combined for eight touchdown catches. The Patriots running game has been better than most expected, which has definitely kept opposing defenses honest. New England is first in the NFL in total offense.

The Patriots front seven has done a nice job against the run this year. Vince Wilfork clogs up the middle nicely, and the linebackers are quick to the football. The issue for New England has been their terrible pass coverage. It is never a good sign when your leading tacklers are in the secondary. New England’s top three tacklers are all in the secondary. The Patriots are dead last in the NFL in pass defense. Expect Pittsburgh to test the secondary this weekend. [soliloquy id=”82219″]

Pittsburgh’s passing offense has gotten off to a much better start this year since it has had Ben Roethlisberger available since day one. Roethlisberger has a solid quarterback rating of 95.3, and he has already thrown 12 touchdown passes. He benefits from an impressive group of pass catchers. Mike Wallace has turned into one of the best deep threats in the NFL. Hines Ward, Heath Miller, and Antonio Brown all have at least 23 catches so far this year. Rashard Mendenhall had a breakout year last season, and he is having another solid season in 2011. The offensive line is the weak spot for this offense. If they can improve, this offense will be much more dangerous.

Dick Lebeau’s defense is once again one of the best in the NFL. Casey Hampton has missed the last three games, but he should be back to clog up the middle of the defense. James Harrison is out with an injury, but this group of linebackers is still great. Troy Polamalu is arguably the best defensive play maker in the NFL. The Patriots have had a lot of success in the past against the Steelers defense, so it will be interesting to see what kind of changes Pittsburgh makes this weekend.

The Patriots are 46-22-3 ATS in their last 71 road games. I like Brady’s track record against the Steelers defense, and I like that they have had two weeks to prepare for this one.

Free NFL Pick: Patriots -2.5

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NFL

Week 8: Cardinals vs. Ravens NFL Preview & Free Pick

Arizona Cardinals (1-5) vs. Baltimore Ravens (4-2)

Time/Date: 1:00 PM EST, October 30, 2011
Venue: M&T Bank Stadium
Broadcast: FOX
Cardinals vs. Ravens Gambling Odds from Bookmaker
Spread: Ravens -12.5
Moneyline: Ravens (-800) Cardinals (+600)
Over/Under: 43.5

The Arizona Cardinals started the season with a win, but they have lost five straight since then. Baltimore is 4-2, but they are coming off an embarrassing loss at Jacksonville in front of a national television audience. The Ravens are heavily favored to get back on track in this one. Can Arizona make a game of this one or will it be a Ravens rout?

Kevin Kolb was brought in over the offseason to be the starter at quarterback for Arizona. Kolb has struggled with inconsistency thus far in 2011. He has seven touchdowns and seven interceptions, and he is only completing 57.8% of his passes. Larry Fitzgerald is one of the league’s best wide receivers, but Kolb and Fitzgerald have yet to get the level of chemistry needed. Beanie Wells is having a breakout season at the running back, but he is listed as doubtful for Sunday’s game due to a knee injury. The team no longer has Tim Hightower, and Alphonso Smith will likely get most of the carries this week.

Arizona’s defense has been disappointing this season. Patrick Peterson is an extremely talented rookie cornerback, but this secondary has really struggled against good quarterbacks. It certainly doesn’t help that the front seven has struggled to get pressure on the quarterback without bringing a blitz. Can this unit improve their play and keep the Cardinals in this game?

Baltimore’s defense is currently ranked number one in the NFL in total defense. While Ray Lewis might get the most attention, I believe Haloti Ngata and Terrance Cody in the middle of the defensive line are the anchors of this defense. It is really difficult to find a weakness on this defense now that they have improved depth in the secondary. This team has speed at the linebacker spots, and they certainly have strength and size on the line. Baltimore’s defense is first in the NFL in third down defense. [soliloquy id=”82219″]

Opponents are converting on just 29.9% of their third down conversion attempts. This is a dominant defense that should keep the Ravens in just about every game they play this year.

The Baltimore offense has plenty of talent, but they can be extremely confusing at times. The Ravens ran Ray Rice just eight times this past Monday, while Joe Flacco threw 38 passes. Rice is clearly one of the best runners in the NFL, and he definitely needs to touch the ball more often. This talented Baltimore offense finished with less than 175 yards of total offense against a lowly Jacksonville team. The knock on Joe Flacco has been that he isn’t consistent enough at the quarterback spot. Flacco is completing only 52% of his passes in 2011. Ray Rice and Anquan Boldin are both having better seasons than last year, but they need to get the ball a little more often.

Arizona’s offense will really miss Beanie Wells, and this Baltimore defense is extremely good. I’m not sure the Cardinals score much at all here.

Free NFL Pick: Cardinals/Ravens under 43.5

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NCAA Football

Week 9: Wisconsin vs. Ohio State Preview & Free Pick

Wisconsin vs. Ohio State

Ohio Stadium
Saturday October 29, 8:00 PM EST
NCAA Football Odds from BetOnline
Moneyline: Wisconsin (-280) Ohio State (+235)
College Football Spread: Wisconsin -7 (-115) Ohio State +7 (-105)
Over/Under: 50.5

Wisconsin had hopes of winning a national title, but last week’s loss at Michigan State likely ended those dreams. This week the Badgers travel to Columbus to take on the Buckeyes. Ohio State isn’t the team they have been the last few years, but a game in the Horseshoe is never an easy task for an opponent. Expect an electric atmosphere on Saturday night.

The Badgers may have lost last weekend, but this is still one of the best teams in the nation. Russell Wilson has been tremendous at the quarterback position for Wisconsin. Wilson gives the team a quarterback with a big arm and the ability to keep plays alive with his legs. He is completing 73% of his passes so far this year, and he has 16 touchdowns and just three interceptions. While the passing game is very good, it is the Badgers ground game that makes them tick on offense. Montee Ball averages 6.1 yards per carry, and he has already amassed an amazing 19 touchdowns this year. Wisconsin is fifth in the nation in scoring offense at 47.2 points per game.

The Badgers defense has been very good this year. Coming into the season there were some questions about this unit, but up until last week’s loss they had been nearly perfect. Kirk Cousins exposed the secondary a bit last week, and that will be an area to watch in the future. Wisconsin needs to gear up for a heavy dose of the running game this week. [soliloquy id=”82219″]

Ohio State is coming off a bye week, so they have had plenty of time to prepare for Wisconsin. The Buckeyes got a little bit of momentum back with their 17-7 win over Illinois two weeks ago. Braxton Miller has shown flashes of his play making ability, but he is very one-dimensional right now. As a whole, this Ohio State offense is one-dimensional in 2011. The Buckeyes really don’t have anyone who can throw it very well, and they are very weak at the wide receiver spot as well. On the other hand, Ohio State does have a good offensive line and a very talented backfield of runners. Dan Herron is eligible once again, and he is one of the conference’s best runners. If Ohio State is going to win this game, they’ll likely need to get some increased production out of the passing game.

Ohio State’s defense has been the strength of the team over the last few years. The Buckeyes defense isn’t dominating this year, but they are still very solid. This unit has given up large chunks of yards on the ground a couple times this year, but for the most part they have been pretty good. They will face a great running game this week, so it will be a huge test for the front seven.

Wisconsin is the better team here, and as long as they come out ready to go they should win this one and cover the spread. I think Ohio State plays hard and keeps it respectable, but Wisconsin should wear them down with their rushing attack.

Free College Football Pick: Wisconsin -7
Score Prediction: Wisconsin 30 Ohio State 17

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NCAA Football

Week 9: Michigan State vs. Nebraska Preview & Free Pick

Michigan St. vs Nebraska

The Big Ten Legends Division race is shaping up to be extremely competitive. The game of the year in this division comes this weekend when the red hot Spartans of Michigan State travel to Lincoln to take on the Big Ten’s newest member, the Nebraska Cornhuskers.

Kyle Hunter
Kyle Hunter

Both teams have one loss, but Michigan State’s loss came out of conference. Nebraska looks to get the upper hand in the Legends Division, while Michigan State looks to build off their huge win at home over Wisconsin.

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Michigan State vs. Nebraska
Memorial Stadium
Saturday October 29, 12:00 PM EST
NCAA Football Odds from Bookmaker
Moneyline: Off
College Football Spread: Nebraska -4 (-110) Michigan State +4 (-110)
Over/Under: 49.5

This should be a great game.

Not many people expected Michigan State to knock off Wisconsin last weekend, myself included. Wisconsin certainly made some critical mistakes, but the Spartans deserve a ton of credit for showing up and beating a Wisconsin team that has looked like one of the nation’s best teams all year. Michigan State has now beaten Ohio State, Michigan, and Wisconsin in three consecutive games. Mark Dantonio is trying to turn Michigan State into a perennial contender in the Big Ten.

Kirk Cousins had a magnificent game last week against Wisconsin. Cousins threw three touchdowns and no interceptions while leading his team to a huge win. Cousins is completing 66% of his passes so far this year. Edwin Baker and Le’Veon Bell form a nice tailback tandem for Michigan State. While the offense has been solid, it has been the Michigan State defense that has led the way this year. The Spartans rank second in the nation in total defense. Jerrell Worthy is the anchor in the middle of the defensive line, and the secondary is terrific as well. [soliloquy id=”82219″]

Nebraska hasn’t looked like the national title contender that some thought they could be, but the Cornhuskers have only lost one game. The team is still right in the thick of the Big Ten race, and this is a great chance for them to pick up a big win at home against a top ten opponent. Taylor Martinez burst onto the scene as a star freshman quarterback last year, and he has had another solid season in 2011. Martinez still struggles with his consistency when throwing the football, but he is one of the best running quarterbacks in all of football. Rex Burkhead is a tough runner who really battles for every yard. He is averaging an impressive 5.8 yards per carry this season. The Cornhuskers have the seventh best rushing offense in the nation, but there passing attack is often non-existent.

The primary reason Nebraska has looked a little bit underwhelming this year has been the poor play of their defense. Jared Crick is out for the season with a torn pectoral muscle. The front seven has been giving up far too many yards on the ground, and they will be tested in this game by a solid Michigan State running game. Nebraska’s defense must improve if this team is going to win a Big Ten title.

Michigan State is coming off a big win against Wisconsin, but this will be the best team they have played on the road this year. I expect Nebraska to bring their best effort on Saturday.

Free College Football Pick: Nebraska -4
Score Prediction: Nebraska 27 Michigan State 21

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NCAA Football

Week 9: Illinois vs. Penn State Preview & Free Pick

Illinois vs Penn State

Joe Paterno can etch his name alone at the top of the list if Penn State wins this game. A win by the Nittany Lions would give Paterno 409 career wins, a mark which would top Eddie Robinson’s 408 career wins.

Kyle Hunter
Kyle Hunter

It seems every season Ron Zook is on the hot seat. The Fighting Illini’s 6-0 start really surprised the football world, but two straight losses have people questioning whether this team is for real.

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Beaver Stadium
Saturday October 29, 3:30 PM EST
NCAA Football Odds from BetOnline
Moneyline: Penn State (-205) Illinois (+175)
College Football Spread: Penn State -5 (-115) Illinois +5 (-105)
Over/Under: 40.5

Can Penn State give Paterno his record setting 409th win?

Nathan Scheelhaase and the Fighting Illini offense have been non-existent in the past couple weeks. The Fighting Illini were held to 7 points by Ohio State two weeks ago. Last weekend they were held to 14 points by a mediocre Purdue team. Illinois clearly needs to get the offense started far earlier in the game. The Fighting Illini haven’t scored a point in the first three quarters of their last two contests. A.J. Jenkins gives Illinois one of the best play makers in the Big Ten on the outside, but the team is lacking a second pass receiving option. If Illinois is going to be successful in this game, they must get their running game going.

The Illinois defense has been very good this year. Despite losing their top two players to the NFL Draft, this defense ranks tenth in the nation in total defense. Illinois has been solid against both the run and the pass this year. The Fighting Illini are allowing just 18.1 points per game in 2011. [soliloquy id=”82219″]

Penn State’s offense hasn’t necessarily been great this year, but they have gotten the job done. The emergence of Silas Redd as a quality running back has really helped this team move forward. Redd is averaging 5.3 yards per carry, and he already has six touchdowns this season. Matt McGloin and Rob Bolden have been sharing time at the quarterback spot, but McGloin seems to be earning the primary share of the playing time at this point. McGloin has thrown seven touchdowns and just two interceptions this year. This offense has been without its star receiver, Derek Moye, for the last few weeks. Moye is listed as questionable for this game, and the offense will really get a nice boost when he gets back in the lineup.

Penn State’s defense is primarily responsible for the team’s 7-1 start. The Nittany Lions defense has been dominating so far this year. Opponents are scoring just 13.1 points per game on this unit so far this year. The Nittany Lions defensive line is led by Jack Crawford. Star corner D’Anton Lynn leads a secondary that is probably the best in the Big Ten.

The posted total on this game is set very low, but it is set low for good reason. These defenses are much better than the offenses in this matchup. I expect both offenses to struggle to get anything going in this one.

Free College Football Pick: Illinois/Penn State under 40.5
Score Prediction: Penn State 17 Illinois 10

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NCAA Football

Week 9: Purdue vs. Michigan Preview & Free Pick

Purdue vs Michigan

The Michigan Wolverines are coming off a bye week. Purdue is coming off a surprising win over the Fighting Illini of Illinois.

Kyle Hunter
Kyle Hunter

Michigan is looking to prove that its 6-0 start wasn’t a fluke this year, while Purdue is looking to pick up a couple more wins and become bowl eligible. These two will battle in the Big House this Saturday afternoon.

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Purdue vs. Michigan
Michigan Stadium
Saturday October 29, 12:00 PM EST
NCAA Football Odds from BetOnline
Moneyline: Michigan (-500) Purdue (+405)
College Football Spread: Michigan -13.5 (-115) Purdue +13.5 (-105)
Over/Under: 52.5

After the Boilermakers were beaten 38-10 at home by Notre Dame, it appeared the season may just fall apart. Purdue has shown some impressive resiliency since that difficult loss. Purdue throttled Minnesota, narrowly lost at Penn State, then surprised Illinois last week. Danny Hope’s team has a difficult schedule the rest of the way, so we will see just how much this team has improved.

Rob Henry was expected to be the starting quarterback for Purdue, but he tore his ACL just a few days before the beginning of the season. Caleb TerBush and Robert Marve have shared time under center this season. TerBush has established himself as the primary quarterback at this point.

TerBush is a mobile quarterback who can keep the play alive and keep the defense on its heels. Ralph Bolden and Akeem Shavers give the Boilermakers a solid tailback tandem. The team doesn’t really have a deep threat in the passing game. Purdue’s defense has done a nice job limiting the damage this year.

The Boilermakers are allowing just 20 points per game. The secondary has been very good all year long. [soliloquy id=”82219″]

Michigan has had a couple weeks to ponder what went right in their loss against Michigan State. The time off has been great for Denard Robinson, who suffered a minor back injury in the game at East Lansing. Robinson has been as dynamic as ever on the ground this year. He has 762 yards and nine rushing touchdowns already in 2011.

Fitzgerald Touissant has also stepped up his game as Michigan’s top tailback this year. Touissant is averaging 5.4 yards per carry, and he takes some of the pressure off Robinson in the running game. The passing attack hasn’t been very successful this year.

Robinson has thrown 11 touchdowns and 10 interceptions. He has only completed 53% of his passes. Roy Roundtree had 72 catches last year, but he has only 12 through seven games this season.

Michigan’s much improved defense is the primary reason this team is 6-1 so far this year. The defense was the worst in school history last year, but they are much better this season. This unit has forced more turnovers than any other defense in the country. Michigan ranks 28th in the nation in total defense, but they allow only 14.7 points per game. If this unit continues to play so well, Michigan should continue its resurgence.

Purdue has had some trouble stopping the run this year, and Michigan will be the best rushing attack they have faced. The Wolverines should be angry and ready to go in this coming off a bye week. I think Michigan rolls in this game.

Free College Football Pick: Michigan -13.5
Score Prediction: Michigan 34 Purdue 13

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NCAA Football

Week 8: Wisconsin vs. Michigan State Preview & Free Pick

Wisconsin vs Michigan St.

This Saturday night’s showdown in East Lansing is probably the biggest matchup in the Big Ten so far this year. Wisconsin has dismantled everyone they have played so far this year, but they have yet to play a game away from home.

Kyle Hunter
Kyle Hunter

Michigan State is unbeaten in the Big Ten, and they haven’t lost at home. The Spartans upset the Badgers last year.

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Spartan Stadium
Saturday October 22, 8:00 PM EST
NCAA Football Odds from BetOnline
Moneyline: Off
College Football Spread: Wisconsin -7.5 (-115) Michigan State +7.5 (-105)
Over/Under: 49

It’s the #4 Badgers against the #13 Spartans under the lights this Saturday.

No team has looked more dominant than the Wisconsin Badgers so far this season. Russell Wilson transferred from North Carolina State in the offseason, and he seems to be the perfect fit for this Badgers offense. Wilson has completed an amazing 74% of his passes in 2011. In addition, he has thrown 14 touchdowns and just one interception. The biggest strength of this Badgers offense is still the running game. This offensive line is dominant and Montee Ball and James White are both very good running backs. Ball is averaging 6.1 yards per carry, and he already has a staggering 16 rushing touchdowns this year. Wisconsin is first in the nation in scoring at 50.2 points per game.

Wisconsin’s defense was supposed to be the question mark this year, but they have been terrific as well. The Badgers rank third in the nation in points per game allowed at just 9.7 per contest. Opponents are converting on just 31% of their third-down conversion attempts so far this year. If this defense continues to play so well, the Badgers will be very difficult to beat.

Michigan State ranks second in the nation in total defense, just a couple yards per game behind Alabama. Mark Dantonio’s team has shut down every offense it has faced this year. Notre Dame had the most success of anyone, but they still only had 275 total yards of offense. Jerrell Worthy is a dominant force in the middle of the defensive line. [soliloquy id=”82219″]

Michigan State is allowing just 119 passing yards per game, which is the best mark in college football. The Spartans already have 21 sacks this season. Michigan State is holding opponents to just 27.5% on their third-down conversion attempts.

Kirk Cousins is the senior leader under center for Michigan State. Cousins is a very accurate passer who has a great understanding of this offense. Edwin Baker and Le’Veon Bell are the two primary running backs for the Spartans. Michigan State’s running game hasn’t been quite as good as last year, largely due to multiple injuries on the offensive front. If they are going to win this game, they must be able to run the football against the Badgers.

This should be a very interesting game. The Badgers offense will easily be the best offense Michigan State has played. At the same time, Michigan State’s defense will be far better than any of the defenses Wisconsin has gone against. In the end, I expect Wisconsin’s balance on offense to be too much for Michigan State.

Free College Football Pick: Wisconsin -7.5

Score Prediction: Wisconsin 31 Michigan State 17

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NCAA Football

Week 8: Penn State vs. Northwestern Preview & Free Pick

Penn St. vs Northwestern Handicapping

Penn State has been bit by the injury bug this year. In hindsight, it should have been a sign of things to come when Joe Paterno was injured in August practice.

Kyle Hunter
Kyle Hunter

The Nittany Lions are without some of their best players as they head to Evanston to take on the Wildcats. Northwestern had high expectations for this season, but they sit at just 2-4.

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Ryan Field
Saturday October 22, 7:00 PM EST
NCAA Football Odds from BetOnline
Moneyline: Off
College Football Spread: Penn State -4 (-110) Northwestern +4 (-110)
Over/Under: 47.5

Pat Fitzgerald’s team really needs to start putting some wins together if they are going to go bowling this year. I expect this to be a very good game.

Matt McGloin and Rob Bolden have been sharing the quarterback duties for Penn State. Bolden has been starting the last few games, but McGloin has come in and taken a lot of snaps on a weekly basis. McGloin has put up better numbers overall, but neither quarterback has been tremendous. Derek Moye is the team’s best play maker offensively, but he will miss this contest with a foot injury. Silas Redd has done a solid job as the Nittany Lions primary ball carrier, but backup Brandon Beachum is listed as questionable for this game.

The Nittany Lions defense is the strength of this team. Unfortunately, they haven’t been able to avoid the injury bug. Michael Mauti was the heart and soul of this defense from his linebacker spot, but he will miss the rest of the season with torn ligaments in his knee. Still, this is a defense that is one of the best in the conference, especially against the pass. Despite the front seven not generating much of a pass rush, the secondary is giving up just 161 passing yards per game.

Dan Persa is one of the best quarterbacks in the nation when healthy, but he hasn’t been completely healthy this year. Persa has shared time with Kain Colter because of his injury issues, but Persa is getting the majority of the snaps at this point. Persa is completing 75% of his passes this year, and he has all the tools to pick apart a defense. [soliloquy id=”82219″]

Jeremy Ebert already has 39 receptions and six touchdowns on the season. Starting running back Mike Trumpy is out for the season with a torn ACL, and the Wildcats need to get some improved production from the tailback spot in order to take pressure off the quarterbacks.

The Wildcats have really struggled defensively in 2011. Northwestern is currently ranked 101st in the nation in total defense. They have been beaten by power running teams as well as opponents who simply air it out offensively. It would really help this defense if they could find some kind of a pass rush. The secondary is being forced to cover their man for far too long right now. This defense must improve if Northwestern is going to reach a bowl game this season.

Northwestern jumped out to a 21-0 lead in Happy Valley last year before the Nittany Lions scored 35 straight to win 35-21. The Wildcats really need this game, and the night game in front of the home crowd should really help them.

Free College Football Pick: Northwestern +4
Score Prediction: Northwestern 24 Penn State 21

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NCAA Football

Week 8: Nebraska vs. Minnesota Preview & Free Pick

Nebraska vs Minnesota Handicapping

The Cornhuskers will travel to Minnesota Saturday afternoon to take on the Golden Gophers for the first time since 1990. Nebraska sits at #11 in the polls right now, while Minnesota is 1-5 on the season.

Kyle Hunter
Kyle Hunter

There isn’t much to cheer about right now for Minnesota fans, but they are hoping new coach Jerry Kill can change that over time. Nebraska hasn’t been impressive so far this year, but they are still a dangerous team.

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Nebraska vs. Minnesota
TCF Bank Stadium
Saturday October 22, 3:30 PM EST
NCAA Football Odds from BetOnline
Moneyline: Off
College Football Spread: Nebraska -24.5 (-110) Minnesota +24.5 (-110)
Over/Under: 56.5

Nebraska’s Taylor Martinez is one of the best running quarterbacks in the nation. Martinez has 100 rushing attempts this year, and he has already picked up 584 yards. Martinez struggles when he has to throw it too often. Rex Burkhead isn’t the fastest or strongest player you’ll see, but he works as hard as anyone. Burkhead is averaging 5.9 yards per carry this season. No Cornhuskers wide receiver has more than 13 catches so far in 2011. Nebraska’s running attack is terrific, but against top teams they’ll need to have a little more balance offensively.

The primary reason most people haven’t been impressed with Nebraska’s play this year has been the Cornhuskers defense. Jared Crick was the team’s best player on defense, but he is now out for the season due to a torn pectoral muscle. This front seven was expected to be good against the run, but they are allowing 168 yards per game on the ground. Lavonte David is a very talented linebacker, but this unit as a whole just isn’t performing up to expectations. If Nebraska is going to finish strong this year, the defense must improve.

It’s hard to find anything positive to say about Minnesota right now. The Golden Gophers lost to Michigan 58-0, and then last weekend they were drubbed by a poor Purdue team by a count of 45-17. MarQueis Gray is expected to be back under center this week, which is a bit of good news. [soliloquy id=”82219″]

Gray is the team’s best play maker, but he really hasn’t developed as a passer. Da’Jon McKnight is a talented receiver, but the Gophers simply don’t get him the ball very often. Expect Gray to use his legs as often as possible in this one.

The Minnesota defense is allowing 35 points per game so far this season. The defensive line is typically manhandled by opponents, and the secondary gets beat deep far too often. They won’t have to worry about Nebraska airing it out very often this week, but they will have to find a way to stop the Cornhuskers running game. Expect the Golden Gophers to stack the box with eight or nine players.

Nebraska should run all over Minnesota in this game. Michigan carved up this Minnesota defense a couple weeks ago, and I expect Nebraska to do the same this weekend. The Cornhuskers defense isn’t very good, but they’ll probably be able to shutdown a very weak Minnesota offense.

Free College Football Pick: Nebraska -24.5
Score Prediction: Nebraska 44 Minnesota 10

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Week 8: Illinois vs. Purdue Preview & Free Pick

Illinois vs Purdue Handicapping

Illinois is coming off a disappointing home loss to Ohio State last weekend. The Fighting Illini still have a chance to be a player in the Big Ten Leaders Division, but they must get back on track right away.

Kyle Hunter
Kyle Hunter

Purdue fought hard, but came up short against Penn State in Happy Valley last week. The Boilermakers will look to pull off a big upset at home this week.

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Illinois vs. Purdue
Ross-Ade Stadium
Saturday October 22, 12:00 PM EST
NCAA Football Odds from 5Dimes
Moneyline: Off
College Football Spread: Illinois -4 (-110) Purdue +4 (-110)
Over/Under: 47

The Illinois offense was really shut down by Ohio State last Saturday. Illinois didn’t score until there was six minutes left in the contest. The running game barely mustered 100 yards, which was less than half their average per game. Nathan Scheelhaase is a much improved quarterback, but he had a poor game last week. The Fighting Illini turned the ball over three times last week, and that was simply too much to overcome. Scheelhaase is one of the best dual-threat quarterbacks in the nation, and I expect him to bounce back nicely. A.J. Jenkins already has 54 catches, but the team needs to find a reliable second option in the passing game.

The Illinois defense has been a real area of strength this season. Illinois is currently ranked 12th in the nation in total defense. This is a defense that really rallies to the football well, but they are slightly vulnerable against a power running attack like Ohio State’s. Can this unit use their team speed to shut down the Purdue offense?

Purdue has had more trouble with serious injuries than just about any other team in the nation in the last year. Rob Henry was going to be the starter under center for the team this year, but he tore his ACL just days before the season started. Caleb TerBush has seen most of the playing time at quarterback this year, but Robert Marve has also taken some snaps under center. The passing game has never really gotten on track this season. The Boilermakers are averaging ust 194 passing yards per contest. [soliloquy id=”82219″]

Ralph Bolden and Akeem Shavers give Purdue a nice one-two punch in the backfield. Both running backs are averaging more than five yards per carry this season. If Purdue is going to win this game, they will have to establish the running game early and often.

The Purdue defense has some very talented players, but they also have some major holes. Ryan Kerrigan was a beast at the defensive end spot last year, and the Boilermakers clearly miss him. Ricardo Allen is a play maker in the secondary, and most opponents try to throw the ball to the other side of the field rather than challenge Allen. Purdue’s rushing defense has struggled this year.

Neither offense is particularly strong, but Scheelhaase gives the Fighting Illini a clear advantage at the quarterback spot. Illinois beat Purdue 44-10 last year. This one should be a whole lot closer, but I still think Illinois covers this small number.

Free College Football Pick: Illinois -4
Score Prediction: Illinois 27 Purdue 17

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NFL

Colts vs. Bengals Week 6 Preview & Pick

Indianapolis vs Cincinnati Week 6 NFL Betting Preview & Predictions

If anyone previously doubted how much Peyton Manning meant to the Colts, they shouldn’t after the team’s start to this season.

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NFL

Texans vs. Ravens Week 6 Preview & Pick

Houston vs Baltimore Week 6 NFL Betting Preview & Predictions

The Texans are coming off a draining home loss against the Raiders, while the Ravens are coming off a bye week. Both of these teams have high aspirations for the 2011-2012 season.

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NCAA Football

Week 7: Ohio State vs. Illinois Preview & Free Pick

OSU vs Illinois

It’s a bit of a role reversal for Ohio State and Illinois so far this year. Ohio State has typically been the team at the top of the Big Ten standings, but this year it is Ron Zook’s Fighting Illini at the top of the standings.

Kyle Hunter
Kyle Hunter

Illinois is off to an impressive 6-0 start, and they are definitely a team that could contend for the Big Ten Leaders Division title.

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Ohio State vs. Illinois
Memorial Stadium
Saturday October 15, 3:30 PM EST
NCAA Football Odds from Bookmaker
Moneyline: Illinois (-170) Ohio State (+150)
College Football Spread: Illinois -3.5 (-110) Ohio State +3.5 (-110)
Over/Under: 44

Ohio State is coming off a heartbreaking loss to Nebraska. The Buckeyes aren’t up to their normal standards this year, but they are still a dangerous team.

Last week’s loss at Nebraska was a bitter pill to swallow for Ohio State fans. The Buckeyes controlled the first two and a half quarters, but they fell apart late in the game. Braxton Miller showed his ability, but when he went down with an injury the Buckeyes were completely lost on offense. How will Ohio State rebound from last week’s tough loss?

The Buckeyes expect Miller to be ready for this game, which is definitely great news for the offense. Additionally, running back Boom Herron will make his season debut in this one. Ohio State will now have three very good running backs who will share duties in the backfield. It’s the Buckeyes passing game that has been non-existent this year. DeVier Posey is still suspended and the Buckeyes receivers just aren’t very good this year. What about the Buckeyes defense? Ohio State’s defense is pretty good, but they aren’t as good as they have been the last few years. Nebraska seemed to wear down the Buckeyes defense last weekend. Ohio State is giving up 17.8 points per game. [soliloquy id=”82219″]

Ron Zook was on the hot seat at the beginning of this season, but the Illini have really outperformed expectations so far this year. The Fighting Illini get to play Ohio State, Michigan, and Illinois all at home this year, which should be a big benefit to this team’s chances. Nathan Scheelhaase might not get the hype that some other quarterbacks do in the Big Ten, but he is one of the league’s best. Scheelhaase has progressed a great deal from last year, and he is now a complete quarterback. He has thrown for 1,238 yards and rushed for 347 yards this season. Troy Pollard and Donovonn Young have emerged as the Fighting Illini’s most dangerous tailbacks this year. A.J. Jenkins is having a major breakout season at the wide receiver spot. Jenkins already has 46 receptions and seven touchdowns in 2011.

Perhaps the biggest surprise has been the superb play of the Illinois defense. This is a defense that lost its two best players from a year ago, but they are still shutting down their opponents very nicely. Illinois ranks ninth in the country against the run, but they will be tested this week by a solid Ohio State running game. Ironically, Illinois gives up 17.8 points per game as well, the exact same average Ohio State gives up.

The Buckeyes have struggled of late, but they are certainly capable of winning this game. At the same time, Zook’s teams have been very good against Ohio State. In the end, I think the best play here is the under. Look for a low scoring game.

Free College Football Pick: Under 44
Score Prediction: Illinois 20 Ohio State 17

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Week 7: Indiana vs. Wisconsin Preview & Free Pick

Indiana vs Wisconsin

Wisconsin 83 Indiana 20 is what the scoreboard read after last year’s meeting between these two. The Badgers absolutely annihilated the Hoosiers, and they set several Big Ten records in the process.

Kyle Hunter
Kyle Hunter

Indiana is just as bad as they were last year, and Wisconsin may even be better than last year.

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Indiana vs. Wisconsin
Camp Randall Stadium
Saturday October 15, 12:00 PM EST
NCAA Football Odds from Bookmaker
Moneyline: Off
College Football Spread: Wisconsin -40 (-110) Indiana +40 (-110)
Over/Under: 60

Can we expect the same type of massive blowout in this matchup?

Kevin Wilson took over the Hoosiers football program in the offseason. Wilson has implemented a new faster paced offense, but it hasn’t done anything to help the team’s results as of yet. The quarterback spot has been a big question mark this year after Ben Chappell graduated at the end of 2010. Edward Wright-Baker started the year at quarterback, but he has missed the last few games with an ankle injury. Wright-Baker is expected back this weekend, but don’t be surprised if Tre Roberson gets some time under center as well. The Hoosiers really don’t have an established running back, and that really hurts this offense. The two main play makers for this offense are Demarlo Belcher and Kofi Hughes on the outside, and they need to get the ball more often.

Indiana’s defense has been terrible for several years in a row, and things really aren’t any different this season. Despite playing a weak schedule so far this year, the defense has given up 27 points per game. The front seven continually has a horrible time stopping the run, and that will be a real issue against the Badgers.

Wisconsin’s offense was only missing a quarterback as they headed into the offseason after last year’s Rose Bowl loss. Russell Wilson transferred in to the program and the Badgers picked up a Heisman Trophy type quarterback that has become the center of the team’s offense. The Badgers offensive line continues to be dominating, and the running game is as strong as ever. Now, the Badgers also have a solid passing game to go along with the running attack. [soliloquy id=”82219″]

Wilson has the mobility to keep plays alive, and he also has the big arm to stretch the defense. Wisconsin is averaging 48 points per game so far this year. This is an offense without a weakness, and they are clearly one of the best in the country.

The Wisconsin defense has been much better than most expected them to be so far this season. Wisconsin is giving up just 10.2 points per game, and they rank seventh in the nation in total defense. Chris Borland has emerged as a leader for this defense. The Badgers secondary has been great against the pass this year. If Wisconsin’s defense continues to be dominant, the Badgers will be extremely difficult to beat this year.

It’s hard to imagine Wisconsin winning this one by 63 points like they did last year, but this game should get very ugly. I think the Badgers have a good chance of getting to 55 or 60 by themselves, so I like the over in this one.

Free College Football Pick: Over 60
Score Prediction: Wisconsin 56 Indiana 10

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Week 7: Michigan vs. Michigan State Preview & Free Pick

Michigan vs Michigan State

The state of Michigan loves its football, but there is absolutely no love between Michigan and Michigan State fans. While Michigan’s primary rival is Ohio State, Michigan State is another major rival of the school.

Kyle Hunter
Kyle Hunter

Michigan State has beaten the Wolverines three straight times, but Brady Hoke has engineered an impressive turnaround at Michigan this year.

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Michigan vs. Michigan State
Spartan Stadium
Saturday October 15, 12:00 PM EST
NCAA Football Odds from BetOnline
Moneyline: Michigan State (-125) Michigan (+105)
College Football Spread: Michigan State -1.5 (-110) Michigan +1.5 (-110)
Over/Under: 49

The tenth ranked Wolverines will invade East Lansing this Saturday.

The Michigan offense is terrific once again this year, even if it does look a little different than it did last year. Denard Robinson is averaging an impressive 7.1 yards per carry, which is slightly better than his average from last year. Fitzgerald Touissant has emerged as a solid tailback for the team, and that helps relieve a bit of the pressure that was on Robinson. The passing game still needs to improve quite a bit. Robinson has already thrown nine interceptions in just six games, and he is completing just 57% of his passes. The Wolverines are scoring 38 points per game.

The main reason for Michigan’s 6-0 start is the much improved play of the defense. This unit was the worst in school history last year, but they have been very good so far this season. Michigan has given up quite a few yards, but they have forced more turnovers than any other defense in the conference. The defense will get some much bigger tests in the next few weeks, and it will be interesting to see how they hold up.

Michigan State is coming off a year where they tied for the Big Ten title, but they embarrassed themselves against Alabama in the Capital One Bowl. Mark Dantonio’s team is trying to continue to improve and take that next step. Kirk Cousins is the senior under center for the Spartans. Cousins makes good decisions with the football and he knows the offense very well. B.J. Cunningham already has 38 receptions in just five games, and he is a big play threat on the outside. [soliloquy id=”82219″]

The Spartans are extremely deep in the backfield, but the offensive line has been dinged up this year. They’ll need to be able to run the ball well against the Wolverines front seven in this one.

Who would have thought that Michigan State would have the top ranked defense in the nation half way through the college football season? The Spartans are allowing just 173 yards per contest. Jerrell Worthy is a beast in the middle of the defensive line, and he often takes up two or three blockers.

The Spartans are second in the nation in pass defense and third in run defense, but those numbers will be tested this week.

I expect a very hard fought game this weekend between these intrastate rivals. Michigan is definitely on the way up, but I believe Michigan State is a solid value here at home.

Free College Football Pick: Michigan State -1.5
Score Prediction: Michigan State 27 Michigan 24

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