Category: Sports betting

Want to win your survivor pool? Who to take in Week 1

Breaking down the best strategies of how to win your NFL survivor pool, starting with who to pick in Week 1.

NFL survivor pools, no matter what you call them, are fun to participate in. They are easy since you only pick one team per week. All the team has to do is win, no point spread involved.

But survivor pools are also difficult as you can only use a team once during the entire season. Not to mention, if you pick a team and it loses, you are eliminated.

The key is to pick teams which have the easiest path to victory each week. This does not mean using all the best teams first, though. If you do, you will be relying on teams which you don’t want to be counting on when it comes to crunch time at the end of the season. So, make sure to use your teams accordingly.

Don’t forget to look at trends as well.

For instance, the Indianapolis Colts (-7.5), who visit the Houston Texas Sunday, are the largest favorite of Week 1, according to Tipico Sportsbook as of Saturday, 1:23 a.m. ET. However, Indy hasn’t won a Week 1 game since 2013. In coach Frank Reich’s 4 seasons with the Colts, they are 0-4 straight up (SU) and 0-3-1 against the spread (ATS) in Week 1.

Are you sure you want to trust them and go against the trend?

Play to win $25K: USA TODAY NFL Survivor pool!

The chalk: Baltimore Ravens

Who they play: At New York Jets, Sunday 1 p.m. ET

Chalk or not, I am riding with the Ravens in Week 1.

Jets QB Zach Wilson is out for several weeks with a knee injury. Many might think this is a good thing as backup QB Joe Flacco could be better. I don’t agree. Not only is Flacco more than broken down at this point of his career, but he is also a statue.

Behind an offensive line without OT Mekhi Becton (out for the season with chip fracture in right kneecap) and his replacement Duane Brown (shoulder injury), the Ravens pass rush will be able to get into the Jets’ backfield. With CBs Marcus Peters and Marlon Humphrey in the secondary, the Ravens will also make it difficult for anything to get going for the Jets on offense.

On the other side of the ball, Ravens QB Lamar Jackson will not only run all over the Jets, but he will also use TE Mark Andrews and rookie TE Isaiah Likely to move the ball down the field. Jackson bet on himself by not signing a contract. I will bet on him and the Ravens to beat the overmatched Jets as -7.5-point favorites.

BALTIMORE IS MY FAVORITE SURVIVOR PLAY of the week. It will also be the most common play for many pools.

FOOTBALL NEVER STOPS
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Off the board: Kansas City Chiefs

Who they play: At Arizona Cardinals, Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET

There is likely to be a spot later in the season when the Chiefs will be a more popular pick than this week. Whether it be a game against the Seattle Seahawks or someone else, the Chiefs always get a lot of play in survivor pools.

So, why take them here against what could be a good challenge on the road?

WR Tyreek Hill is gone (off to Miami). But the Chiefs still have QB Patrick Mahomes as well as TE Travis Kelce. The Cardinals secondary is banged up, meaning WRs Juju Smith-Schuster and Marquez Valdes-Scantling should have big games in their Kansas City debuts.

On defense, the Chiefs lost CB Tyrann Mathieu (now with the Saints), but they drafted DE George Karlaftis to provide a pass rush alongside DT Chris Jones and DE Frank Clark. This will make a significant difference against a Cardinals team with a sub-par offensive line.

The Cardinals will also be without their best player in WR DeAndre Hopkins (6-game suspension for violating league’s PED policy) and fellow WR Rondale Moore (hamstring), who was downgraded to “out” as of Friday night.

I love the Ravens this week. But if you want to save them for later in the season – or you’re in a survivor pool where you must pick 2 teams – look toward the desert and Kansas City.

[the_huddle]

Others to consider

Philadelphia Eagles: At Detroit Lions, Sunday, 1 p.m. ET

San Francisco 49ers: At Chicago Bears, Sunday, 1 p.m. ET

Tennessee Titans: Home vs. New York Giants, Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET

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More NFL Week 1 coverage

Want action on any of these games or any other sports matchup? Bet legally online with a trusted partner: Tipico Sportsbook, SportsbookWire’s official sportsbook partner in CO and NJ. Bet now!

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Rutgers vs. Wagner: Prediction, point spread, odds, best bet

Rutgers takes on Wagner in home opener Saturday. Check out the lines provided by Tipico, see how you should place your bets

The Rutgers Scarlet Knights play the Wagner Seahawks on Saturday, and if you’re looking to do some last-minute betting research, you’re in luck! We’ll give you the latest point spread, money line odds and over/under number, as well as the information you’ll need to make the smartest bet at Tipico Sportsbook.

The game starts at 4:00 p.m. E.T. and can be seen on the Big Ten Network.

Rutgers started the season 1-0 after barely scraping by against Boston College for a 22-21 road victory. They knew the ACC squad would be a challenge, but some early sloppy play led to a two score deficit. Rutgers’ offensive line and defense would step up huge in the second half and allow the Scarlet Knights to march back on the back of running backs Kyle Monangai and Al-Shadee Salaam.

Wagner started their season with a loss. The FCS program is currently on a 21 game losing streak and things are not looking up for the Seahawks. Rutgers has a strong history against non-FBS opponents, and don’t expect that to change on Saturday. Look for Rutgers to get out to an early lead, continue to pile on, and get some valuable playing time for their younger players en route to a blowout victory in their home opener. Fans attending the game should plan to get there early and stay late as there are festivities surrounding the contest. Saturday’s game is being billed as the “Back to the Birthplace Game” with a pre-game parade and post-game fireworks.

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Updated fantasy football rankings (PPR scoring) and cheat sheets: Week 1

Set your fantasy football lineup with fantasy football PPR rankings from The Huddle for Week 1 of the 2022 NFL season.

Welcome aboard for the 2022 fantasy football season! Every Friday, we’ll update the Fantasy Football Rankings to put you in position for a W.

We consulted with our friends at TheHuddle.com, who have been helping fantasy players just like you win their leagues for over 2 decades. Check out TheHuddle.com’s top players in point-per-reception (PPR) fantasy football scoring for the upcoming weekend:

Fantasy football rankings – Week 1

Quarterback rankings

  1. Jalen Hurts, PHI vs. DET – 31.0 projected points
  2. Patrick Mahomes, KC vs. ARI – 29.5
  3. Justin Fields, CHI vs. SF – 28.0
  4. Tom Brady, TB vs. DAL – 27.5
  5. Kyler Murray, ARI vs. KC – 27.5
  6. Trey Lance, SF vs. CHI – 27.5
  7. Justin Herbert, LAC vs. LVR – 27.0
  8. Dak Prescott, DAL vs. TB – 26.0
  9. Lamar Jackson, BAL vs. NYJ – 25.5
  10. Russell Wilson, DEN vs. SEA – 24.0
  11. Trevor Lawrence, JAC vs. WAS – 23.5
  12. Kirk Cousins, MIN vs. GB – 22.0

Play to win $25K: USA TODAY NFL Survivor pool!

Running back rankings

  1. Christian McCaffrey, CAR vs. CLE – 30.0 projected points
  2. Austin Ekeler, LAC vs. LVR – 29.0
  3. Derrick Henry, TEN vs. NYG – 26.0
  4. Jonathan Taylor, IND vs. HOU – 26.0
  5. Alvin Kamara, NO vs. ATL – 22.0
  6. Aaron Jones, GB vs. MIN – 22.0
  7. Javonte Williams, DEN vs. SEA – 22.0
  8. Joe Mixon, CIN vs. PIT – 20.0
  9. Travis Etienne, JAC vs. WAS – 20.0
  10. Antonio Gibson, WAS vs. JAC – 19.0
  11. Ezekiel Elliott, DAL vs. TB – 18.0
  12. James Conner, ARI vs. KC – 18.0
  13. Elijah Mitchell, SF vs. CHI – 18.0
  14. Saquon Barkley, NYG vs. TEN – 17.0
  15. Chase Edmonds, MIA vs. NE – 17.0
  16. Nick Chubb, CLE vs. CAR – 17.0
  17. AJ Dillon, GB vs. MIN – 17.0
  18. Cordarrelle Patterson, ATL vs. NO – 16.0
  19. Miles Sanders, PHI vs. DET – 16.0
  20. Damien Harris, NE vs. MIA – 16.0
  21. Dalvin Cook, MIN vs. GB – 15.0
  22. Rashaad Penny, SEA vs. DEN – 15.0
  23. Jamaal Williams, DET vs. PHI – 14.0
  24. D’Andre Swift, DET vs. PHI – 14.0

[the_huddle]

Wide receiver rankings

  1. CeeDee Lamb, DAL vs. TB – 24.0 projected points
  2. Deebo Samuel, SF vs. CHI – 22.0
  3. Michael Pittman Jr., IND vs. HOU – 22.0
  4. D.J. Moore, CAR vs. CLE – 21.0
  5. Courtland Sutton, DEN vs. SEA – 21.0
  6. Keenan Allen, LAC vs. LVR – 19.0
  7. Davante Adams, LVR vs. LAC – 19.0
  8. Mike Williams, LAC vs. LVR – 19.0
  9. JuJu Smith-Schuster, KC vs. ARI – 19.0
  10. Ja’Marr Chase, CIN vs. PIT – 19.0
  11. Adam Thielen, MIN vs. GB – 18.0
  12. Tyreek Hill, MIA vs. NE – 18.0
  13. Elijah Moore, NYJ vs. BAL – 18.0
  14. Marvin Jones, JAC vs. WAS – 17.0
  15. A.J. Brown, PHI vs. DET – 17.0
  16. Darnell Mooney, CHI vs. SF – 17.0
  17. Robert Woods, TEN vs. NYG – 16.0
  18. Jarvis Landry, NO vs. ATL – 16.0
  19. Russell Gage Jr., TB vs. DAL – 16.0
  20. Tee Higgins, CIN vs. PIT – 16.0
  21. Mike Evans, TB vs. DAL – 15.0
  22. DeVante Parker, NE vs. MIA – 15.0
  23. Marquise Brown, ARI vs. KC – 15.0
  24. Jerry Jeudy, DEN vs. SEA – 15.0

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Tight end rankings

  1. Travis Kelce, KC vs. ARI – 21.0 projected points
  2. Dalton Schultz, DAL vs. TB – 19.0
  3. Mark Andrews, BAL vs. NYJ – 18.0
  4. T.J. Hockenson, DET vs. PHI – 18.0
  5. Darren Waller, LVR vs. LAC – 16.0
  6. Dallas Goedert, PHI vs. DET – 16.0
  7. Noah Fant, SEA vs. DEN – 15.0
  8. Pat Freiermuth, PIT vs. CIN – 14.0
  9. Cameron Brate, TB vs. DAL – 12.0
  10. David Njoku, CLE vs. CAR – 12.0
  11. Kyle Pitts, ATL vs. NO – 11.0
  12. Hunter Henry, NE vs. MIA – 10.0

Place kicker rankings

  1. Brett Maher, DAL vs. TB – 12.0 projected points
  2. Brandon McManus, DEN vs. SEA – 12.0
  3. Rodrigo Blankenship, IND vs. HOU – 12.0
  4. Evan McPherson, CIN vs. PIT – 12.0
  5. Mason Crosby, GB vs. MIN – 11.0
  6. Justin Tucker, BAL vs. NYJ – 11.0
  7. Joey Slye, WAS vs. JAC – 11.0
  8. Dustin Hopkins, LAC vs. LVR – 10.0
  9. Robbie Gould, SF vs. CHI – 9.0
  10. Ryan Succop, TB vs. DAL – 9.0
  11. Randy Bullock, TEN vs. NYG – 9.0
  12. Wil Lutz, NO vs. ATL – 9.0

Defensive team rankings

  1. Chargers vs. LVR – 10.0 projected points
  2. Bengals vs. PIT – 10.0
  3. 49ers vs. CHI – 9.0
  4. Saints vs. ATL – 9.0
  5. Commanders vs. JAC – 9.0
  6. Titans vs. NYG – 9.0
  7. Ravens vs. NYJ – 8.0
  8. Buccaneers vs. DAL – 8.0
  9. Eagles vs. DET – 8.0
  10. Packers vs. MIN – 7.0
  11. Cowboys vs. TB – 7.0
  12. Broncos vs. SEA – 7.0

If you’re looking for sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW. Please gamble responsibly.

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[lawrence-newsletter]

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Marshall at Notre Dame odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Saturday’s Marshall at Notre Dame odds and lines, with college football expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Marshall Thundering Herd (1-0) and Notre Dame Fighting Irish (0-1) meet Saturday at Notre Dame Stadium. Kickoff is scheduled for 2:30 p.m. ET (NBC/Peacock). Below, we analyze Tipico Sportsbook‘s lines around the Marshall at Notre Dame odds, and make our expert college football picks and predictions.

Marshall rolled up a 55-3 victory against Norfolk State of the FCS last week. The Thundering Herd covered as 40-point favorites with the Under of 59 just coming in. They finished with 380 rushing yards and 232 passing yards.

The Fighting Irish held a 10-7 lead at halftime on the road against Ohio State last Saturday in a top-5 showdown, but the Irish withered in the 2nd half and lost 21-10. This is Notre Dame’s first meeting in program history against Marshall, and the first time playing a Sun Belt Conference opponent.

Notre Dame is No. 9 in the AFCA Coaches Poll powered by USA TODAY Sports.

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Marshall at Notre Dame odds

Provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated Friday at 6:30 p.m. ET.

  • Money line (ML): Marshall +800 (bet $100 to win $800) | Notre Dame -1400 (bet $1,400 to win $100)
  • Against the spread (ATS): Marshall +20.5 (-108) | Notre Dame -20.5 (-112)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 50.5 (O: -112 | U: -108)

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Marshall at Notre Dame picks and predictions

Prediction

Notre Dame 41, Marshall 17

Money line

Notre Dame (-1400) is just way too expensive, as the return is so minimal. The Irish should bounce back and roll to a victory after the Buckeyes loss, but betting these kind of heavy favorites over the long term is a losing proposition.

PASS.

Against the spread

NOTRE DAME -20.5 (-112) looked sharp at times in its opener, holding a powerful Ohio State offense to just 7 points in the 1st half, and 21 points for the game. The Fighting Irish appear primed and ready to bounce back and completely throw a blanket on an undersized Marshall team.

The Thundering Herd posted impressive numbers last week, but there is a big difference between the athletes at Norfolk State and the athletes at Notre Dame.

Over/Under

OVER 50.5 (-112) is the way to go.

While the Notre Dame defense should be able to limit the Marshall offense from doing much of anything, the Irish offense should come alive and move the ball well. I think the Irish do a lot of the heavy lifting, and nearly take care of this Over on their own.

All trends point to the Under, but sometimes you simply need to pay them no mind and go with gut instinct. … And gut instinct says that the Irish are angry, going to score early and often, and roll to a big win at home.

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Want action on this game or any other NCAA football matchup? Bet legally online with a trusted partner: Tipico Sportsbook, SportsbookWire’s official sportsbook partner in CO and NJ. Bet now!

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Southern Utah at Utah odds, picks, and predictions

Analyzing Saturday’s Southern Utah at Utah odds and lines, with college football expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Southern Utah Thunderbirds (1-0) take on the Utah Utes (0-1) in Salt Lake City Saturday at 1:30 p.m. ET. Below, we analyze Tipico Sportsbook‘s lines around the Southern Utah vs. Utah odds, and make our expert college football picks and predictions.

Utah is No. 15 in the AFCA Coaches Poll powered by USA TODAY Sports. The Utes are coming off a tough fought loss in Week 1 at the Florida Gators. Trailing most of the game, the Utes had a chance to win in the final seconds, but an interception on the 6-yard line thrown by QB Cameron Rising was the final play in a 29-26 loss.

Southern Utah posted a dominant 44-13 victory against FCS-member St. Thomas-Minnesota last week. Although St. Thomas was a powerhouse in Division III, which propelled it to skip Division II entirely and enter the FCS, it was still not up for the challenge against Southern Utah. But this Saturday will be an entirely different test for the Thunderbirds – they won’t be the better team here.

Utah looks to win its first game of the season and extend its home winning streak at Rice-Eccles Stadium to 9 games. Plus, the Utes own a 26-game home win streak against non-conference foes.

Stream select live college football games and full replays: Get ESPN+

Southern Utah at Utah odds

Provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated Friday at 10:01  a.m. ET.

  • Money line (ML): Off the board
  • Against the spread (ATS): Southern Utah +44.5 (-108) | Utah -44.5 (-112)
  • Over/Under (O/U): (O:58.5 -105 | U: -115)

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Southern Utah at Utah picks and predictions

Prediction

Utah 55 Southern Utah 13

Money line

With Utah such a huge favorite, the money line is off the board. If it is offered before kickoff, this should be a PASS.

Against the spread

SOUTHERN UTAH +44.5 (-112) is worth a small play.

Despite losing last week in “The Swamp,” Utah is still one of the top teams in college football. It is still a favorite to win the Pac-12.

Southern Utah is a middle of the road FCS team. The Thunderbirds are not at all a challenge in this one.

The only reason this is not a play on Utah is the fact it will be gearing up for its Sept. 17 home game with San Diego State.

After getting a comfortable lead against the T-birds, look for the Utes to rest players and get out of the game healthy. This one will not be close, but I can see the THUNDERBIRDS +44.5 (-112) with a backdoor cover.

Over/Under

BEST BET: OVER 58.5 (-105).

Even with Utah not taking Southern Utah seriously, the Utes will still score. A lot. Much like last week when North Carolina and Appalachian State went Over their O/U of 56.5, Utah could do the same here with this total. Even if the Utes come up a TD short, the Thunderbirds will score a few points, making this a great play.

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Want action on this game or any other NCAA football matchup? Bet legally online with a trusted partner: Tipico Sportsbook, SportsbookWire’s official sportsbook partner in CO and NJ. Bet now!

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW, or try out our USA TODAY Parlay Calculator. Please gamble responsibly.

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[lawrence-newsletter]

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RB Leipzig vs. Borussia Dortmund odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Saturday’s RB Leipzig vs. Borussia Dortmund odds and lines, with Bundesliga picks and predictions.

RB Leipzig (1 wins, 2 losses, 2 draws) welcomes Borussia Dortmund (4-1-0) to Red Bull Arena Leipzig with Saturday’s kickoff set for 8:30 a.m. ET. Below, we preview the RB Leipzig vs. Borussia Dortmund odds and lines, and make our best Bundesliga bets, picks and predictions.

Few would have believed that through 5 matches Dortmund would be sitting atop the league — while also having a loss. However, league-favorite Bayern Munich has drawn 2 matches.

Dortmund had scored 8 goals and allowed 4 in the first few weeks of the season. They’re also coming off a 3-0 UEFA Champions League win Tuesday over Copenhagen. Borussia is led in scoring by M Marco Reus, who has 2 goals and 2 assist in 5 matches.

RB Leipzig also qualified for the Champions League, however, it didn’t go as flawlessly. They lost 4-1 to Shakhtar Donetsk and have won just 1 of their first 5 league matches.

Leipzig is led by 24-year-old French F Christopher Nkunku, who has 4 goals. He led the team last season with 20 goals and 13 assists in 34 matches (31 starts). Leipzig is 1-0-1 at home this season.

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RB Leipzig vs. Borussia Dortmund odds, lines, picks and predictions

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated Friday 2:11 p.m. ET.

  • Money line: RB Leipzig +135 (bet $100 to win $135) | Borussia Dortmund +175 (bet $100 to win $175) | Draw +275
  • Over/Under: 3.5 (O: +133 | U: -170)

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Prediction

Borussia Dortmund 3, RB Leipzig 1

Money line (ML)

BET BORUSSIA DORTMUND (+175).

My favorite play in this match is to back the road side.

After all, Leipzig has been playing horrible soccer as of late, allowing 4 goals in their last 2 matches. They also kicked off the season with a 5-3 loss to Bayern Munich in the DFL-Supercup.

Similarly, while it has one hiccup, Dortmund has been dominant, winning 3 straight and allowing under 1 expected goal in each of those. Their defense, led by veteran D Mats Hummels, has been impressive, having yet to allow over 1.5 expected goals in any competition.

Dortmund is undefeated on the road as well, so they are familiar with being able to succeed in tough environments. Combine it all, and the value on Dortmund is too great not to play.

Check out Pro Soccer Wire: For the American soccer fan, USA TODAY Sports Media Group’s website provides a fresh look at the beautiful game.

Over/Under (O/U)

LEAN OVER 3.5 (+133).

Dortmund has gone over this in just 2 of 5 matches in Bundesliga play, but it’s less about their ability to score and more about Leipzig’s recent bout of incompetence.

Leipzig has allowed 8 goals in their last 2 games. They have had 8 matches throughout all competitions and in 3 of them at least 4 goals have been scored by their opponent. In 5 of 8, their opponent has tallied at least 2.

Against a Dortmund side with a terrific midfield and speed up top, they should be able to break through with ease, much like Shakhtar did in the Champions League.

Also, while Dortmund’s defense has been great, Leipzig has scored at least once in 7 of their 8 matches, so they should be able to get on the board.

Couple that with Dortmund having played lacking offensive sides, and we should see a high-scoring match on Saturday.

Bet legally online with a trusted partner: Tipico Sportsbook, Sportsbook Wire’s official sportsbook partner in CO and NJ. Bet now!

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW, or try out our USA TODAY Parlay Calculator. Please gamble responsibly.

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[lawrence-newsletter]

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Bayern Munich vs. VfB Stuttgart odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Saturday’s Bayern Munich vs. VfB Stuttgart odds and lines, with Bundesliga picks and predictions.

Bayern Munich (3 wins, 0 losses, 2 draws) welcomes VfB Stuttgart (0-1-4) to Allianz Arena Saturday. Kickoff is set for 9:30 p.m. ET. Below, we preview Tipico Sportsbook‘s lines around the Bayern Munich vs. VfB Stuttgart odds, and make our best Bundesliga bets, picks and predictions.

Bayern Munich is coming into this game after a midweek Champions League win over Inter Milan. They won 2-0 and had more than double the amount of shots as Inter.

However, Bayern has drawn 2 straight league matches, most recently against Union Berlin. Munich is led by star F Sadio Mané who was acquired this offseason from Liverpool.

Vfb Stuttgart has also drawn 2 straight and has proven to be a formidable foe. They have scored 4 goals and allowed 5 so far this season. They have had more expected goals than their opponent in 3 of the 5 matches.

F Silas Katompa is their main attacking option, but Stuttgart is led by a duo of talented midfielders as well. No player has more than 1 goal scored for the road side.

World class soccer coverage all in one place: Get ESPN+

Bayern Munich vs. Vfb Stuttgart odds

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated Friday at 3:06 p.m. ET.

  • Money line: Bayern Munich -600 (bet $600 to win $100) | Vfb Stuttgart +1300 (bet $100 to win $1,300) | Draw +750
  • Over/Under: 4.5 (O: +130 | U: -165)

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Prediction

Bayern Munich 3, Vfb Stuttgart 0

Money line (ML)

PASS.

While I’d love to find some value to back Bayern, there just isn’t any. At -600, it’s not worth playing them to straight-up win.

I do like Bayern Munich to win with a clean sheet which we’ll talk about more below. The value on that is +120 and might be the best value bet in this match.

Over/Under (O/U)

LEAN ALTERNATE UNDER 3.5 (+140).

Bayern is coming off a midweek match, so it should be sluggish. At home, Bayern is 1-0-1 but has yet to top this total and has actually yet to even have more than 2 combined goals.

Their scoring hasn’t quite been the same this season outside of a 7-0 and 5-0 victory in league play.

They’ve only gone over this total in 2 of their last 6 matches. Also, in 5 of the 6 games in which expected goals have been recorded, Bayern has held their opponent to 1 or fewer.

Vfb doesn’t have a premier forward, so it should easily be held scoreless. They’ve been held without a goal in 2 of their last 3 as well. Vfb has had just 1 multi-goal game as well, so goals have not been plentiful for the road side.

They’ve scored in just 1 of 3 away matches which is where I see the value in the Bayern clean sheet.

Check out Pro Soccer Wire: For the American soccer fan, USA TODAY Sports Media Group’s website provides a fresh look at the beautiful game.

Bet legally online with a trusted partner: Tipico Sportsbook, SportsbookWire’s official sportsbook partner in CO and NJ. Bet now!

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW, or try out our USA TODAY Parlay Calculator. Please gamble responsibly.

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St. Louis Cardinals at Pittsburgh Pirates odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Friday’s St. Louis Cardinals at Pittsburgh Pirates odds and lines, with MLB expert picks and predictions.

The St. Louis Cardinals (81-57) take on the Pittsburgh Pirates (50-86) Friday in the 1st game of a 3-game set at PNC Park. First pitch is set for 6:45 p.m. ET. Let’s analyze Tipico Sportsbook‘s lines around the Cardinals vs. Pirates odds with MLB picks and predictions.

Season series: Cardinals lead 8-2

The Cardinals’ bullpen reared its inconsistent head in Thursday’s 11-6 drubbing by the Washington Nationals, who split the 4-game series with the Cards. St. Louis is still 7-3 in the last 10 games and 21-9 in the last 30.

Pittsburgh has lost 4 of 6 as they were blanked 10-0 Wednesday by the New York Mets. The Bucs are 3-7 in the last 10 and a miserable 7-23 in the last 30 games. The Pirates are a little bit better at home with 27 wins and just 23 on the road. They have one of their bright prospects on the bump today.

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Cardinals at Pirates projected starters

RHP Miles Mikolas vs. RHP Roansy Contreras

Mikolas (11-10, 3.32 ERA) makes his 29th start. He has a 1.01 WHIP, 1.6 BB/9 and 6.5 K/9 in 176 1/3 IP.

  • Coming off 8 shutout IP with 2 H, 1 BB and 3 K against the Chicago Cubs Sept. 4
  • Has made 2 starts vs. Pirates this year: 1-0, 1.46 ERA, 12 1/3 IP, 7 H, 2 ER, 0 BB, 7 K

Contreras (4-4, 3.41 ERA) makes his 14th start. He has a 1.31 WHIP, 4.0 BB/9 and 8.5 K/9 in 74 IP.

  • Last 2 starts: 11 IP, 7 H, 1 ER, 4 BB and 12 K
  • June 15 vs. Cardinals: 4 1/3 IP, 6 H, 3 ER, 3 BB, 2 K

Cardinals at Pirates odds

Provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 12:10 p.m. ET.

  • Money line (ML): Cardinals -205 (bet $205 to win $100) | Pirates +165 (bet $100 to win $165)
  • Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Cardinals -1.5 (-117)| Pirates +1.5 (-103)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 8.5 (O: +105 | U: -130)

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Cardinals at Pirates picks and predictions

Prediction

Cardinals 5, Pirates 2

Money line

The Cards’ offense has been pretty productive with 6 games of at least 5 runs in the last 10. Contreras was good against them in his 1st start, but the Cards got to him in the 5th inning, which muddied his line. I look for a competitive game. If the Cards get him out of the game by the 7th, they’ll get to the Pirates’ pen, which is 4th-worst in baseball with a 4.64 ERA. The Cards’ ML is too expensive, but the CARDINALS FIRST 9 INNINGS (-165) is at a tolerable rate.

Run line/Against the spread

Of the Cards’ 8 wins against the Bucs this year, 7 have been by 2 or more runs. St. Louis’ top relievers didn’t pitch Thursday and will be ready to go. However, Mikolas has gone into the 7th inning in 4 of 5 starts. Take the CARDINALS -1.5 (-117).

Over/Under

Even though the Cards have been scoring, they are just 4-5-1 O/U in the last 10 games. The Over is trending in this series at 4-1-1 the last 6 games. The number was steamed up to 8.5 this morning, and that’s just enough leverage for the Under to sneak by. LEAN UNDER 8.5 (-130).

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Iowa State at Iowa odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Saturday’s Iowa State at Iowa odds and lines, with college football expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Iowa Hawkeyes (1-0) host the Iowa State Cyclones (1-0) at Kinnick Stadium Saturday. Kickoff is set for 4 p.m. ET (Big Ten Network). Below, we analyze Tipico Sportsbook‘s lines around the Iowa State at Iowa school odds, and make our expert college football picks and predictions.

Both teams will enter undefeated and only will leave that way. For Iowa, it’ll hope to do that at home after a lackluster 7-3 home win over the South Dakota State Jackrabbits. Crazy enough, those 7 points were via 2 safeties and a field goal.

The Iowa offense, led by QB Spencer Petras, did little against SDSU. He threw for 109 yards and 1 interception. Starting RB Leshon Williams did manage 72 yards on the ground.

Iowa State played a bit more exciting Week 1 matchup against Southeast Missouri State. It won 42-10, outscoring the road side 21-0 in the second half.

QB Hunter Dekkers threw for 293 yards and 4 touchdowns. The redshirt sophomore will look to lead Iowa State, a program heavily dependent on RB Breece Hall and the run game last season.

The Hawkeyes lead the all-time in-state series — a battle for the Cy-Hawk Trophy — 46-22. Iowa won last year’s meeting 27-17 and is 6-0 against the Cyclones since 2015.

Check out: AFCA Coaches Poll powered by USA TODAY sports

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Iowa State at Iowa odds

Provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated Friday at 10:01  a.m. ET.

  • Money line (ML): Iowa State +155 (bet $100 to win $155) | Iowa -180 (bet $180 to win $100)
  • Against the spread (ATS): Iowa State +3.5 (-115) | Iowa -3.5 (-105)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 40.5 (O: -110| U: -110)

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Iowa State at Iowa picks and predictions

Prediction

Iowa State 20, Iowa 16

Money line

SPRINKLE IOWA STATE (+155).

It’s difficult to back Iowa after its inability to move the ball against South Dakota State. To the Jackrabbits credit, they are 1 of the best FCS schools in the country. However, Iowa State will pose a much tougher test.

Jirehi Brock has taken over for Hall and averaged 6.5 rushing yards per carry in their opener (104 yards on 16 carries) with a TD. Given that this shouldn’t be a blowout, he should see an enhanced workload.

Iowa State hasn’t beaten Iowa since 2014, and this time around, it may have the more talented roster. Iowa’s strength isn’t in the pass game, so if the Cyclones can get up early, the Hawkeyes may struggle to regain that lead.

Against the spread

BET IOWA STATE +3.5 (-115).

Iowa State has had worse teams and kept these games close, so I expect a hard-fought, close battle. The Cyclones have held 2 of their last 4 matchups within 3.5 points.

Considering Iowa really only won in Week 1 due to SDSU errors, the Cyclones should be able to keep things close just by playing smart football, which is did in their opener.

An offensive line with 4 upperclassmen and a 5th-year senior transfer WR (Dimitri Stanley), the Cyclones experience should be a factor as well. This should be a close game, and I’ll take the road dog to cover here.

Over/Under

BET UNDER 40.5 (-110).

Iowa scored 7 points last week and didn’t have an offensive touchdown.

Getting to 41 or more combined will be a tough task. Petras is still under center, and in 12 games last season, he had just 10 touchdowns and 9 interceptions.

The Hawkeyes allowed just over 23 points per game last season which included a 42-3 loss to Michigan. Aside from that, their opponent topped 20 strictly in Big Ten play (and in the Citrus Bowl against Kentucky).

Iowa has played well against non-Big Ten opponents. They haven’t allowed a non-Big Ten opponent to top 20 points in a game that wasn’t a bowl game since 2016 against North Dakota State.

Considering their style of play and the Cyclones potentially run-heavy attack, I’ll take the Under 40.5 (-110) here.

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South Carolina at Arkansas odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Saturday’s South Carolina at Arkansas odds and lines, with college football expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The South Carolina Gamecocks (1-0) and Arkansas Razorbacks (1-0) meet Saturday at Razorback Stadium in Fayetteville. Kickoff is scheduled for noon ET (ESPN). Below, we analyze Tipico Sportsbook‘s lines around the South Carolina vs. Arkansas odds, and make our expert college football picks and predictions.

The Gamecocks had a rather sluggish start last weekend against Georgia State of the Sun Belt, including a scoreless first quarter. South Carolina led just 12-7 at halftime before turning on the jets in the second half, outscoring the Panthers 23-7 en route to a 35-14 win and cover as the Under connected.

The Razorbacks were locked in a Top-25 battle last week against Cincinnati, a playoff team from a season ago. Arkansas opened the scoring with a 15-yard TD run by QB K.J. Jefferson, and it led wire to wire against the Bearcats in a 31-24 win and cover as the total pushed at most shops.

Arkansas is No. 17 in the AFCA Coaches Poll powered by USA TODAY Sports.

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South Carolina at Arkansas odds

Provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated Friday at 10:45 a.m. ET.

  • Money line (ML): South Carolina +270 (bet $100 to win $270) | Arkansas -340 (bet $340 to win $100)
  • Against the spread (ATS): South Carolina +8.5 (-110) | Arkansas -8.5 (-110)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 52.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

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South Carolina at Arkansas picks and predictions

Prediction

Arkansas 38, South Carolina 20

Money line

Arkansas (-340) will cost you nearly 3 1/2 times your potential return, and that’s rather risky despite the fact it looked rather impressive in last week’s opening win.

PASS.

Against the spread

ARKANSAS -8.5 (-110) should be able to handle a South Carolina side that really struggled to move the ball against a Sun Belt opponent.

Jefferson showed why he is one of the rising stars in the SEC, posting 223 passing yards, 3 TDs and 0 INTs while running for 62 yards and another score. The Gamecocks’ defense will have a tough time containing him, especially in a road game with a raucous crowd spurring on the Hogs.

Arkansas has lost the past 3 meetings in this series, but these schools haven’t met since Oct. 2017, when most of the coaching staff and all of the players were somewhere else, so don’t put too much stock into the head-to-head numbers.

Over/Under

OVER 52.5 (-110) is the play in this SEC opener for both teams.

The Over has cashed in the past 4 road games for South Carolina and has gone 7-3 in its last 10 games inside the SEC.

For Arkansas, the Over is 3-1-1 in its past 5 games in the month of September, with that lone push coming last week. And, for what it’s worth, the Over is 5-0 in the past 5 meetings. Again, these teams haven’t met in 5 years, but it’s still worth noting.

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