Philadelphia Stars betting odds line spread pick predictions best bets – Page 2

Philadelphia Stars vs. New Jersey Generals USFL semifinal odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Saturday’s Philadelphia Stars vs. New Jersey Generals semifinal odds and lines, with expert USFL picks, predictions and best bets.

The USFL playoffs begin with the 2 semifinal games Saturday. The 1st matchup features the top 2 North Division teams: the New Jersey Generals (9-1) and the Philadelphia Stars (6-4). Kickoff is set for 3 p.m. ET (FOX) from Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium in Canton, Ohio. Let’s analyze Tipico Sportsbook‘s lines around the Stars vs. Generals playoff odds with USFL picks, predictions and bets.

The Stars basically clinched a playoff spot behind a 4-game win streak between Weeks 6 to 9. They were under .500 after 5 weeks at 2-3, which included a 24-16 loss to the Generals in Week 3.

The Generals actually swept the 2-game regular-season series vs. the Stars, also prevailing 26-23 in Week 10. But with both teams already locked into their playoff spots, there wasn’t much to play for.

New Jersey enters the postseason on a 9-game win streak. Yep, the Generals lost their season opener and then won 9 in a row.

The Birmingham Stallions (9-1) and New Orleans Breakers (6-4) will meet in the South Division semifinal on this same field at 8 p.m. ET (NBC). The 2 semifinal winners will face off in the championship game Sunday, July 3 at 7:30 p.m. ET (FOX), also in Canton.

Stars vs. Generals odds and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 3:30 a.m. ET.

Money line: Stars +160 (bet $100 to win $160) | Generals -200 (bet $200 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Stars +4.5 (-110) | Generals -4.5 (-110)
Over/Under (O/U): 47.5 (O: -105 | U: -120)

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Stars vs. Generals key injuries

Stars

LB Te’Von Coney (ankle) questionable
WR Brennan Eagles (knee) out
OL Jahair Jones (ankle) out
LB Avery Roberts (leg) out
OL Gunnar Vogel (knee) out
DB Evan Worthington (shoulder) out

Generals

OL Garrett McGhin (ankle) probable
OL Robert Myers (knee) probable
DB DeJuan Neal (hamstring) doubtful
DL Deyon Sizer (ankle) questionable

Stars vs. Generals picks and predictions

Prediction

Generals 34, Stars 24

Money line

As mentioned, the Generals have won 9 in a row and beat the Stars in both regular-season matchups.

They allowed the 3rd-fewest points in the USFL this season, yielding 18.2 points per game.

The Stars won 4 of their final 5 games and scored the most points (262) in the league. However, all 6 of their wins came against teams that finished with losing records, while they went 0-4 against the other 3 playoff teams.

The Generals (-200) will win this game, but it’s a PASS as there’s no value in a -200 money line.

Against the spread

Three of the Stars’ 4 losses were by 6 or more points.

Five of the 9 Generals’ victories were by 5 or more points.

The Stars were tied for last in the league in points allowed (243) and face the league’s No. 3-scoring offense.

Take the GENERALS -4.5 (-110).

Over/Under

In their 2 regular-season matchups, the totals were 40 and 49 points.

After their Week 3 game, 5 of the Stars’ final 7 games had more than 47 points with another at exactly 47.

The Generals are more than capable of putting up points but also have one of the stingiest defense in points allowed. They had 4 games of more than 47 total points.

Take OVER 47.5 (-105).

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Philadelphia Stars at New Jersey Generals odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Saturday’s Philadelphia Stars vs. New Jersey Generals Week 10 odds and lines, with expert USFL picks, predictions and best bets.

The Philadelphia Stars (6-3) and the New Jersey Generals (8-1) face off Saturday in Week 10 for their final regular-season game before the two teams meet in the first round of the playoffs next week. Kickoff is at noon ET at Legion Field in Birmingham. Let’s analyze Tipico Sportsbook‘s lines around the Stars vs. Generals odds with USFL picks, predictions and bets.

The Stars have won 4 games in a row to clinch a postseason berth. They snuck by the 1-8 Pittsburgh Maulers 17-16 last week.

The Generals are the hottest team in the league. After losing their season opener 28-24 to the Birmingham Stallions, they rattled off 8 consecutive wins, including a 24-16 win over the Stars in Week 3.

Stars vs. Generals odds and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 5:32 a.m. ET.

Money line: Stars +115 (bet $100 to win $115) | Generals -140 (bet $140 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Stars +2.5 (-110) | Generals -2.5 (-110)
Over/Under (O/U): 41.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

Stars vs. Generals key injuries

Stars

OL Sean Brown (hip) questionable
LB Te’Von Coney (ankle) questionable
OL Jahair Jones (ankle) out
OL Paul Nosworthy (ankle) out
OL Gunnar Vogel (knee) out

Generals

OL Calvin Ashley (foot) probable
DB Dravon Askew-Henry (hamstring) questionable
OL Brandon Haskin (knee) probable
QB De’Andre Johnson (ankle) probable
DB Shalom Luani (shoulder) probable
WR Alonzo Moore (hip, lower back) probable
OL Robert Myers (knee) probable
DB DeJuan Neal (hamstring) doubtful
DL Deyon Sizer (ankle) questionable

Stars vs. Generals picks and predictions

Prediction

Generals 20, Stars 17

Money line

As the top 2 teams in the North Division, New Jersey and Philadelphia will meet again next week in the semifinal round of the playoffs on a neutral field in Canton, Ohio.

So, there’s not much to play for in Week 10 and both teams will likely rest starters by the time this game gets to the 2nd half.

The Generals have the USFL’s top rushing attack, averaging 158.7 yards per game, while the Stars are the worst team in the league in rush defense, giving up 148.2 yards per game.

In a game where the rushing attack will likely be leaned upon by New Jersey, I LEAN GENERALS (-140).

Against the spread

Only 2 of the Generals’ 8 wins were not by more than 2 points. They beat the Stars in Week 3 by 8.

The Stars have won 4 games in a row, but all 3 of their losses were by at least a touchdown.

Again, this comes down to the run game of the Generals. Because we could see a lot of backups and both teams playing this game more like an NFL preseason contest, it is tough to strongly feel one way or another.

I LEAN GENERALS -2.5 (-110).

Over/Under

This is the bet I feel most confident about. With the possibility of starters resting and the Generals having a strong rushing attack, this game will get the clock moving.

Their Week 3 matchup had 40 points. I doubt they make it to 40.

Take UNDER 41.5 (-110).

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Philadelphia Stars vs. Pittsburgh Maulers odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Sunday’s Philadelphia Stars vs. Pittsburgh Maulers odds and lines, with expert USFL picks, predictions and best bets.

The Pittsburgh Maulers (1-7) play the Philadelphia Stars (5-3) at Protective Stadium in Birmingham, AL. Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m. ET (FS1). Let’s analyze Tipico Sportsbook‘s lines around the Stars vs. Maulers odds with USFL picks, predictions and bets.

With just a couple of weeks until the USFL playoffs, fans will get treated with somewhat of an inner-state battle. While it’s still in Alabama, this will have that rivalry feel. The Stars beat the Maulers 30-23 in Week 1.

Philadelphia has been among the best teams in the USFL, having the best offense in the league. They’ve scored 222 points, but have allowed 201. They’re 3-1 in their division, but will be without QB Bryan Scott for Sunday’s game.

As for Pittsburgh, the Maulers have scored just 110 points in 8 games while allowing 193. This will be the most lethal offense against the league’s worst attack.

Stars vs. Maulers odds and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 1:27 a.m. ET.

Money line: Stars -360 (bet $360 to win $100) | Maulers +270 (bet $100 to win $270)
Against the spread (ATS): Stars -8.5 (-110) | Maulers +8.5 (-110)
Over/Under (O/U): 47.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

Stars vs. Maulers key injuries

Stars

QB Bryan Scott (knee) out

Maulers

None

Stars vs. Maulers picks and predictions

Prediction

Stars 30, Maulers 17

Money line

PASS.

Philadelphia is the far-better team, but betting on them at -360 doesn’t make much sense given the potential return.

Against the spread

BET STARS -8.5 (-110).

The Stars were without Scott last week against the Panthers, but it didn’t matter much as backup QB Case Cookus played a nearly flawless game with 4 touchdowns. Cookus and the Stars beat the 1-7 Panthers 46-24.

Philadelphia should see similiar success against Pittsburgh.

The Maulers run defense is also a key issue, allowing over 140 rushing yards per game. The Stars abuse teams on the ground and are averaging over 105 yards per game.

Pittsburgh has lost 3 straight games by double figures as well. I’d back the Stars here as more of a fade against the Maulers who has struggled heavily as of late.

Over/Under

LEAN UNDER 47.5 (-110).

This is a lofty total, and I wouldn’t be willing to bet that Cookus repeats his dominant performance. The only time Pittsburgh hit this total was their 30-23 loss to the Maulers.

While it is the same matchup, the Maulers average just 13.8 points per game.

They just don’t have an overly productive attack, and with this projecting to be a run-heavy game as both teams combine to average just over 200 yards per game on the ground, the Under should be the better play.

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Michigan Panthers vs. Philadelphia Stars odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Sunday’s Michigan Panthers vs. Philadelphia Stars Week 8 odds and lines, with expert USFL picks, predictions and best bets.

The USFL season continues Sunday with the Michigan Panthers (1-6) taking on the Philadelphia Stars (4-3). Kickoff is scheduled for noon ET (FOX) from Legion Field in Birmingham. Let’s analyze Tipico Sportsbook‘s lines around the Panthers vs. Stars odds with USFL picks, predictions and bets.

The Panthers have dropped 4 games in a row but took the New Orleans Breakers to overtime last week before losing 31-27. They lost to the Stars 26-25 in Week 4.

The Stars have won their last 2 games. Their last game was a 35-24 win over the Houston Gamblers.

Panthers vs. Stars odds and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 7:18 a.m. ET.

Money line: Panthers +190 (bet $100 to win $190) | Stars -240 (bet $240 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Panthers +4 (-110) | Stars -4 (-110)
Over/Under (O/U): 47 (O: -107 | U: -115)

Panthers vs. Stars key injuries

Panthers

TE Marcus Baugh (head) questionable
QB Josh Love (arm) questionable
QB Paxton Lynch (leg) probable
LB Terry Myrick (illness) probable
OL Sean Pollard (illness) probable
DB Cory Rahman (head) questionable
OL Keith Williams (illness, leg) questionable
DB Sean Williams (leg) probable

Stars

LB Josh Banderas (hip) probable
DL Michael Barnett (leg) out
RB Darnell Holland (leg) probable
OL Jahair Jones (ankle) out
OL Paul Nosworthy (ankle) out
QB Bryan Scott (knee) out
OL Jackson Scott-Brown (back) out
OL Gunnar Vogel (knee) out

Panthers vs. Stars picks and predictions

Prediction

Stars 31, Panthers 23

Money line

PASS.

The Panthers have played games close but have only 1 win all season. The Stars already beat the Panthers once this season and have scored 35 points in each of their last two games.

However, at -240, betting the money line on the Stars just isn’t worth it as a single bet. PASS.

Against the spread

The Panthers have lost by fewer than 5 points only twice this season.

Of the Stars’ 4 wins this season, 3 have been by at least 7 points. The only win in which they did not do so by at least a touchdown was their 1-point victory over the Panthers.

Take the STARS -4 (-110).

Over/Under

The Stars have put up 35 points in each of the last 2 games. Four of their 7 have had more than 47 points and another had exactly 47.

The Panthers’ last 2 games and 3 of their last 4 have had more than 47 points. The other of the 4 games had exactly 47 points.

In their first matchup, the Stars and Panthers combined for 51 points.

Take OVER 47 (-107).

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Philadelphia Stars vs. Michigan Panthers odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Friday’s Philadelphia Stars vs. Michigan Panthers Week 4 odds and lines, with expert USFL picks, predictions and best bets.

The Philadelphia Stars (1-2) take on the Michigan Panthers (1-2) Friday at Protective Stadium in Birmingham, Ala. Kickoff is scheduled for 10 p.m. ET (FS1). Let’s analyze Tipico Sportsbook‘s lines around the Stars vs. Panthers odds with USFL picks, predictions and bets.

The Stars head into this one looking to level their record at 2-2, but that’s going to be a huge challenge. Starting QB Bryan Scott suffered a knee injury last week, and is a huge question mark to play. The Occidental product led the USFL in passing through the first two games before suffering the injury.

Head coach Jeff Fisher’s Panthers broke through for the shutout victory over the Pittsburgh Maulers last weekend, scoring their first win in the reboot. A 24-0 score isn’t exactly an offensive explosion, but the team had just 18 total points in the first two games, so it’s a big sign of improvement.

Stars vs. Panthers odds and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 7:45 a.m. ET.

Money line: Stars -105 (bet $105 to win $100) | Panthers -115 (bet $115 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Stars +1 (-110) | Panthers -1 (-110)
Over/Under (O/U): 33.5 (O: -108 | U: -112)

Stars vs. Panthers key injuries

Stars

WR Brennan Eagles (ankle) out
RB Darnell Holland (hamstring) out
QB Bryan Scott (knee) doubtful

Panthers

WR Jeff Badet (leg) questionable
WR Ray Bolden (illness) questionable

Stars vs. Panthers picks and predictions

Prediction

Panthers 18, Stars 13

Money line

The PANTHERS (-115) offense did enough to get the job done against the league’s worst team, the Pittsburgh Maulers, and the defense shut the door. Michigan catches a break with the dynamic Scott expected to miss an extended period of time, and former University of Texas standout WR Brennan Eagles also on the shelf.

Against the spread

The PANTHERS -1 (-110) are a better play laying the point, as opposed to the money line play, unless you’re absolutely sure this is going to be a one-point game. Either way, Michigan is the play.

Over/Under

The lean is to the UNDER 33.5 (-112) in this Week 4 battle. Michigan’s defense showed out last weekend against the Maulers, and now it will face a Philadelphia offense missing some key pieces. Michigan will try and wear the Philadelphia D down with a rushing attack that produced 244 yards last weekend. Running the ball runs the clock, which Under bettors love.

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New Jersey Generals vs. Philadelphia Stars odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Sunday’s New Jersey Generals vs. Philadelphia Stars Week 3 odds and lines, with expert USFL picks, predictions and best bets.

The New Jersey Generals (1-1) face the Philadelphia Stars (1-1) Sunday at Protective Stadium in Birmingham, Ala. Kickoff is set for 8 p.m. ET. Let’s analyze Tipico Sportsbook‘s lines around the Generals vs. Stars odds with USFL picks, predictions and bets.

The Generals beat the Michigan Panthers 10-6 in Week 2, following a 28-24 loss to the Birmingham Stallions in their opener.

The Generals are led by QB De’Andre Johnson, who is averaging a team-best 62.5 yards per game on the ground. He’s completed 8 of 14 pass attempts for 107 yards with no touchdowns, while QB Luis Perez is 26 of 37 for 240 yards and 2 TDs.

Philadelphia also struggled out of the gate, losing its opener to the New Orleans Breakers 23-17. But the Stars rebounds with a 30-23 victory against the Pittsburgh Maulers.

The Stars are led by QB Bryan Scott, who owns a league-best 237.0 passing yards per game. He’s thrown 4 touchdowns and 2 interceptions so far.

Generals vs. Stars odds and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 3:26 p.m. ET.

Money line: Generals +105 (bet $100 to win $105) | Stars -130 (bet $130 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Generals +2.5 (-110) | Stars -2.5 (-110)
Over/Under (O/U): 42 (O: -110 | U: -110)

Generals vs. Stars key injuries

Generals

S Mike Bell Jr. (chest) out
LB Shalom Luani (leg) out
WR J’Mon Moore (hamstring) out
WR Randy Satterfield (hamstring) probable
DE Devon Sizer (chest) questionable
DB Christian Tutt (ankle) questionable
DL Destiny Vaeao (thigh) out

Stars

WR Brennan Eagles (ankle) out
CB Bradley Sylve (Achilles) out

Generals vs. Stars picks and predictions

Prediction

Stars 24, Generals 17

Money line

PASS.

Through the first two weeks, there hasn’t been a single USFL game decided by 3 points or less. I’ll prefer the Stars -2.5 spread over their -130 money line here.

Against the spread

BET STARS -2.5 (-110).

This line opened at -1.5, which leads me to indicate there could be some sharp money hitting it and/or some reverse-line movement.

Either way, it’s the better side, and Scott is why. He’s been the most efficient quarterback in the USFL this season.

The Generals will struggle to keep up with Stars QB Scott, who should be able to feast Sunday. New Jersey’s defense ranks third in opponents’ yards per game — thanks in part to facing a horrible Michigan offense in Week 2.

Also, the Generals don’t have much of an offensive identity. They aren’t great at throwing the ball or running it, and their two-quarterback system hasn’t brought much success.

I’ll bank on the STARS -2.5 (-110), who seem to be among the better teams in the league.

Over/Under

LEAN to the UNDER 42 (-110).

This has shot up from 40.5, and it’s confusing as the Generals put up just 10 points last week, struggling to move the ball against a below-average Panthers squad.

I like Scott’s potential, and the Philadelphia defensive line isn’t among the league’s best. Given both teams are 1-1 O/U, this is more of a play against the drastic line movement.

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Pittsburgh Maulers vs. Philadelphia Stars odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Saturday’s Pittsburgh Maulers vs. Philadelphia Stars Week 2 odds and lines, with expert USFL picks, predictions and best bets.

The Philadelphia Stars (0-1) and the Pittsburgh Maulers (0-1) hook up for a Week 2 noon ET kickoff at Protective Stadium Saturday in Birmingham, Ala. The game will be on FOX. Let’s analyze Tipico Sportsbook‘s lines around the Maulers vs. Stars odds with USFL picks, predictions and bets.

The Maulers are coming into this game as Pro Football Focus’ lowest-ranked USFL team. The reasoning for their struggles is based on a low-pass rate coupled with a lacking run game.

The Maulers were shut down by the Tampa Bay Bandits in Week 1, falling 17-3.

Philadelphia lost its opener to the New Orleans Breakers 23-17. The sportsbooks strongly favor the Stars’ quarterback Bryan Scott (1 passing TD in Week 1) over the Maulers’ struggling aerial attack.

Maulers vs. Stars odds and lines

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

Money line: Maulers +220 (bet $100 to win $220) | Stars -333 (bet $333 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Maulers +6.5 (-120) | Stars -6.5 (-111)
Over/Under (O/U): 34.5 (O: -120 | U: -111)

Maulers vs. Stars key injuries

Maulers

DB Tyson Graham (Achilles) out
DL Ethan Westbrooks (quadriceps) out
WR Jeffrey Thomas (groin) out

Stars

RB Matt Colburn (knee) probable
WR Devin Gray (ankle) out
QB Case Cookus (ankle) probable
WR Christian Rowland (shoulder) out

Maulers vs. Stars picks and predictions

Prediction

Stars 21, Maulers 10

Money line

PASS.

A -333 money line for a team that’s also 0-1 is a PASS. However, betting on a team considered the worst in the league, despite a +220 price point, is a PASS as well.

Against the spread

LEAN STARS -6.5 (-111).

The Maulers didn’t get a touchdown last week and really had little production. They totaled under 150 yards through the air, and didn’t have a rusher go for over 60 either.

Add in the fact that their leading receiver, Thomas, is likely sidelined, and things are not looking pretty for Pittsburgh.

Meanwhile, Philadelphia’s Scott, RB Darnell Holland and WR Chris Rowland are all rising stars in the league. They should be able to pressure a Maulers defense that struggled heavily in the first half of their Week 1 defeat.

I’d take the Stars to win with ease in this battle.

Over/Under

BET UNDER 34.5 (-111).

How can one possibly consider not betting the Under when the Maulers put up 3 points last week and could be down their most dynamic offensive threat? Their offense showed no traction.

Former Kennesaw State standout Holland does offer some playmaking (totaling 115 all-purpose yards in Week 1 for the Stars), but the Maulers also did limit the Bandits to zero second-half points.

I expect a defensive-heavy battle in this one.

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Philadelphia Stars vs. New Orleans Breakers odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Sunday’s Philadelphia Stars at New Orleans Breakers Week 1 odds and lines, with expert USFL picks, predictions and best bets.

The inaugural weekend of the return of the USFL continues with three Sunday games. The second of the three is between the Philadelphia Stars and New Orleans Breakers. The Breakers are listed as the home team even though most of the USFL games this season will be played on one of two fields in Birmingham, Ala. Kickoff for Stars-Breakers is 4 p.m. ET (USA Network) at Protective Stadium. Let’s analyze Tipico Sportsbook‘s lines around the Stars vs. Breakers odds with USFL picks, predictions and bets.

The Stars’ coach and offensive coordinator is Bart Andrus. They are quarterbacked by Bryan Scott, who was the USFL Spring League MVP.

Kyle Sloter will quarterback the Breakers. He has limited NFL experience but bounced around on practice squads for a few seasons with very good play in preseason action, always becoming a fan favorite. They are coached by former North Carolina coach Larry Fedora.

Stars at Breakers odds and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 2:58 a.m. ET.

Money line: Stars +120 (bet $100 to win $120) | Breakers -145 (bet $145 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Stars +2.5 (-112) | Breakers -2.5 (-108)
Over/Under (O/U): 43.5 (O: -108 | U: -112)

Stars at Breakers key injuries

Stars

DE Gus Cumberlander (knee) out
S/LB Ahmad Dixon (knee) probable
TE Artayvious Lynn (foot) questionable
LB Gabriel Sewell (knee) probable
CB Bradley Sylve (ankle) out

Breakers

WR Jonathan Adams (ankle) questionable

Stars at Breakers picks and predictions

Prediction

Breakers 31, Stars 24

Money line

The “home” team won the USFL opener Saturday as the Birmingham Stallions defeated the New Jersey Generals 28-24 as favorites. Because we don’t have any trends from either the Breakers or Stars, we can look at the roster and schemes.

The mobility of Sloter and the spread-out offense of offensive coordinator Noel Mazzone should have success in this league. The Breakers have former NFL talent at key positions with RB T.J. Logan and WRs Taywan Taylor and Chad Williams.

At least in the season opener, New Orleans should be able to move the ball.

Take the BREAKERS (-145).

Against the spread

In Saturday’s season opener, the Stallions picked up the win and covered the spread as the home team. With a fairly standard 2.5-point advantage for the “home” team, there isn’t much room for the underdog to lose the game but cover the spread.

As I like the favorites to win, you can get a little more bang for your buck going with a wager on the spread.

Take the BREAKERS -2.5 (-108).

Over/Under

Saturday’s Birmingham-New Jersey game went Over the projected total (42.5) with 52 points. Every game this weekend has had a low projected total. This game has the highest one, although it is still low.

The league has to hope that the games are both competitive and high-scoring.

Saturday’s game was. I anticipate Sunday’s games will be, too.

Take OVER 43.5 (-108).

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