The return of the NASL

While MLS was preparing for its end-of-season party, a new soccer venture called the North American Soccer League was announcing its formation, following the breakaway of a number of clubs from the United Soccer Leagues. That's right, starting from April 2010, the NASL is back.

Putting aside the decision to name the league after a competition that collapsed as spectacularly as once it flourished, it remains to be seen what impact the NASL will have on the soccer landscape, operating along with USL-1 as a second professional league in the tier below MLS.

One thing is for sure, though. While those behind the NASL have spoken of a desire to pay their "respect to the players, coaches and leaders, who were pioneers for men's professional soccer in North America," Pele is not coming back and nor is Franz Beckenbauer or Johan Cruyff, meaning that only in name is this incarnation reflective of its predecessor.

Not that a lack of glitz and glamour should necessarily be looked upon as a bad thing. The growth of MLS and USL has come about thanks to a pragmatic approach and it is to be hoped that this new kid on the block follows similar methods. Good luck to American soccer's new arrival.

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Iraq To Appeal World Soccer Ban

BAGHDAD -- Iraqi officials say they were not surprised that soccer's world governing body suspended the country from international competition and are working on an appeal, RFE/RL's Radio Free Iraq (RFI) reports.


Samir al-Musawi, a member of the executive bureau of Iraq's Olympic Committee (IOC), told RFI that a new committee will be formed to take care of soccer in the country and that lawyers are already working on an appeal to FIFA.


FIFA banned the current Asian champions from international competition on November 20 after the IOC disbanded the governing board of the Iraqi Football Association (IFA) after a yearlong feud between the two organizations.


Al-Musawi blamed IFA's governing board and its former head, Hussain Said, for the latest developments, noting that it was providing FIFA with false information.


Iraqi parliament deputy Jazair al-Sahlani said that the committee has proof of irregularities within the IFA over the past five years and will provide it to FIFA.


Deputy Ahmad Radhi, the head of parliament's Youth and Sport Committee and a former well-known soccer player, criticized both the IFA and the Olympic committee saying that these problems benefit only those who try to profit from them.


Rahdi said he tried to find an agreement between the two bodies and was surprised that the IOC decided to disband IFA's governing board.


New elections for the IFA were to be held on December 23.


It is unclear if they will still be held then.


Iraq surprised many when it won the Asian Cup in 2007.


It also hosted two international matches against Palestine in July -- the first time since the U.S.-led invasion of Iraq in 2003.

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Soccer betting probe nets another official

POLICE in eastern China have detained a football club manager in a nationwide crackdown on soccer betting that has involved several executives and officials from the football association.

The man, identified by police only as L, was detained yesterday, one year after he left Hai Li Feng soccer club in Qingdao, Shandong Province. Other club officials are also under investigation, according to Modern Express today.

Hai Li Feng came under the spotlight after a notorious match with a Sichuan team when the club's players attempted several times to score their own goals.

Police said, however, that they are not investigating that match but are focusing on an alleged gambling syndicate that operated in 2005 and 2006, said an anonymous insider quoted by the newspaper.

The insider said Hai Li Feng was considered the top team at the beginning of every season in China's Premier League, yet their performances collapse at the second half in every match.

China Football Association said any clubs involved in any forms of gambling will be relegated, China News Service reported today.

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Laval defeats McGill, wins first ever CIS men's soccer title

Louis-Charles Laliberte capped a quick three-goal explosion with the game-winner as the Laval Rouge et Or rallied from a two-goal deficit to defeat McGill 3-2 Sunday and capture their first Canadian Interuniversity Sport men's soccer title.

In the dying moments of first-half injury time, Laliberte put Laval ahead 3-2 with a long free kick. He lobbed a high shot that arced over Redmen goalkeeper Jean-Lou Gosselin and into the top left corner.

"I've been practising that play all season long and scored one like that in our league semifinal game against UQAM," said the native of LaSalle, Que. "If you hit it right, the ball moves in the wind and that makes it hard for the goalkeeper to make the stop."

It marked the first duel between two Quebec-based teams in a CIS final in any sport.

Earlier Sunday, the Trinity Western Spartans beat the Toronto Varsity Blues 2-1 (4-2 in penalty kicks) to take the bronze medal.

McGill, which had lost 3-0 to Laval in the Quebec conference final last week, dominated the first half and jumped into an early 2-0 lead on goals by third-year defender Graeme Tingey of North Vancouver, B.C., and Ottawa's Gareth Pugh.

Laval roared back with three goals in the final four minutes of the half and held on for the victory in the pouring rain.

"To score three times in the last (few) minutes of the half in a championship game is something that I've never seen before," said Laval coach Samir Ghrib, named earlier in the week as the CIS coach of the year. "We were prepared for the scenario of having to come from behind. This is the story of our season. We fight until the (game) is over."

The Redmen were charged with an own goal when Laliberte appeared to take a harmless chip shot that bounced off a McGill player and past Gosselin in the 43rd minute to narrow the gap to 2-1.

"I managed to get between the two defenders and just chipped it (off a player)," said Laliberte.

Less than two minutes later, CIS tournament MVP and second-team all-Canadian Gabriel Moreau of St. Hyacinthe, Que., pounced on a loose ball in the box and fired it past Gosselin to even the score at 2-2. It was Moreau's third goal of the tournament.

Laliberte followed with his winning goal.

"This hurts right now but when we look back on the season in a few weeks time, a silver medal finish is pretty good for a team that wasn't expected to be here," said first-year McGill head coach David Simon. "We exceeded all expectations and I'm proud of what we accomplished this season."

In the bronze-medal game, Trinity Western goalkeeper Andrew Kowan made a diving penalty kick save and defender Cardin Davis from scored the penalty winner as the Spartans beat Toronto.

The Spartans outscored Toronto 4-2 in penalty kicks for their fourth CIS championship medal in the last five years. TWU also won bronze in 2005 and silver in 2008 and 2006.

"There wasn't an issue of motivation when you get to a match like this," said TWU head coach Pat Rohla. "For the four months that we have been together over a month of that has been with the boots on practising so there is no point in getting to a match like this and dropping short."

Nathan Pogue of Seaside, Ore., opened the scoring in the 63rd minute for the Spartans.

Alexander Raphael replied in the 80th minute for the Varsity Blues.

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Coach sees both sides of rough tactics by women's soccer player

Kit Vela, the head coach of the University of New Mexico women's soccer team, left the field after last week's Mountain West Conference semifinal thinking her team had just lost a well-played, hard-fought, rather routine college match — nothing more, nothing less.

She watched her players congratulate their opponents from Brigham Young, which had won 1-0. In particular, she said she noticed starting junior defender Elizabeth Lambert walking from one BYU player to the next, congratulating them, wishing them well. Lambert had received a yellow card near the end of the game for a questionable tackle, just the third yellow card of her career, but from Vela's vantage point, she thought the card "really wasn't for much of anything."

Other than that, Vela thought Lambert had done nothing out of the ordinary, making tackles and plays that were part of "the flow of the game."

Hours later, when watching sports highlights on television, Vela said she was "stunned" to see a very different portrait of Lambert. It was the first time Vela saw the video that millions around the world have now seen, the awful highlight reel showing Lambert kicking, punching and slapping opponents and, worst of all, violently yanking a BYU player's ponytail, causing that player's head to snap back as she fell to the ground.

The seven incidents paint a dreadful picture, the kind of visual compilation that makes one stop and watch, over and over again, as if it's the metaphoric train wreck.

"I wish I had seen it," Vela said Wednesday afternoon, in her first interview since the video of Lambert went viral on the Internet. "If I had seen the hair pull, I would have pulled her off the field, and we wouldn't be sitting here today. … But nobody saw the hair pull in the run of play."

Unfortunately, that includes the referee, the two assistant referees and the alternate referee, all of whom missed what has become the most-watched uncalled red card in the history of women's soccer. For their mistake, perhaps they should be forced to miss something else — a few games by way of suspension.

How did all of these people in positions of authority miss what the cameras so easily caught?

The ponytail play, like several others in the Lambert "highlight" reel, occurred off the ball, away from the game's immediate action. By the time Vela said her eyes went to that spot, the BYU player was on the ground, and the game was moving on.

"We didn't see it," she said. "The refs didn't see it. Believe me, I wish I had."

She also said she missed the other especially offensive hit, Lambert's punch to an opponent's back after that player elbowed Lambert in the sternum.

As for the rest of the fouls, Vela says that Lambert's jousting and sparring looked like the action from just about any other women's college or pro soccer game.

"We could take any game from any school in the country, and take everything … the tackles, the arms in the back … and you'd find much of the same thing, some worse, some not as bad," said Vela, 41, in her ninth season at New Mexico. "But those things happen all the time. It's a 90-minute match, but you're looking at 45 seconds of what they wanted to show on TV. Soccer is a contact sport, and there's a lot of stuff that happens."

This sounds quite brazen, but in some ways, it's the harsh reality of the development of girls and women in sports. Because of Title IX, we've created a generation or two of female athletes who are as tough and fearless as their brothers, with the grass stains and black eyes to prove it. But they, like their brothers, need to know when toughness crosses the line to reckless, outright dangerous play.

The day after the game, Lambert was suspended specifically for the ponytail pull, Vela said. She said she has seen Lambert every day since, and while she won't say when the player's suspension will end, she does hope she comes back to the team.

Just like the guys, she wants her player to have a second chance.

"This is the first time she's done anything even close to this," Vela said. "She lost control in the heat of the moment. Even Liz says, 'In hindsight, I wish (the referee) would have seen this and thrown me out.' It would have been better for all concerned."

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Premier League Betting: Tottenham Hotspur vs. Sunderland

Tottenham Hotspur and Sunderland are separated by two points and by three ranking spots. Their close proximity in the Premier League table makes their upcoming clash on the weekend the most compelling and it should live up to the hype. Is understood they will be each looking to win this match, I hope.

Soccer Betting Line:

Tottenham Hotspur -1 -105 -200 3 O +125 U -145 2 O +105 U -125 Draw +285

Sunderland AFC +1 -115 +600 3 O +125 U -145 1 O +105 U -125 Draw +285

Venue: White Hart Lane

Soccer Betting Verdict: Tottenham Hotspur are significantly favoured in this all-important clash, listed at BetUS Sportsbook at -200 to win outright. The Spurs are after back-to-back losses and looking to turn things around. They lost surprisingly 1:0 to Stoke City a fortnight ago at White Hart Lane and most recently, they lost the local derby to Arsenal 3:0 at the Emirates Stadium.

The loss to Arsenal shouldn’t knock a bother out of them though as they have a history of losing to Arsenal, even when in good form. Harry Redknapp and his men will have to put it behind them. No sense in crying over spilt milk.

Sunderland are having a good season and pose a dangerous threat to Tottenham. It is a bit surprising to see they are so disadvantaged in the market, listed at +600 to win outright. Surely, the side that has contributed no less than 20 goals so far and sits eighth in the table would be more vested in the match than that.

The Black Cats are confident after coming back from behind to draw against West Ham United last weekend, playing with 10 men for most of the match. The point was a good result considering the heroics. The Black Cats will be mindful of Spurs’ recent woes as well and looking to capitalize on the negative trend. Spurs have to be ready for this match. If they are not focused, they risk extending the negative trend.

This match should be more open than the money line suggests and the winner a tossup. Certainly, there will be many goals, so perhaps betting on the totals will be the better strategy. However, I like Sunderland in this match.

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Premier League Betting - Liverpool vs. Birmingham City

Liverpool FC are after a 1:1 draw against Lyon in midweek Champions League action. The Champions League attempt came right after a 3:1 to Fulham in Premier League action. Indeed, the Reds are in all sorts of woes right now. And as you might expect their upcoming domestic commitment against Birmingham City is a must-win. Birmingham City are relegation threatened but they are coming off a scoreless draw against Manchester City, which considering the state of their campaign is a good result for them. However, Birmingham City cannot really be overconfident about their chances at Anfield Stadium.

Soccer Betting Line:

Liverpool FC -1½ -115 -325 2½ O -120 U Ev 2 O -120 U Ev Draw +375
Birmingham City +1½ -105 +1200 2½ O -120 U Ev ½ O -130 U +110

Venue: Anfield Stadium

Match Time: 03:00 P.M. Eastern Time Monday November 9, 2009

Soccer Betting Verdict: Liverpool FC were sixth in the table ahead of the weekend, but slipped to seventh when most contested their matches on Saturday and Sunday. As Liverpool and Birmingham close the 12 th cycle, the standings will be adjusted accordingly. Liverpool have a shot to move up to fifth in the League if they take all three points at the expense of Birmingham City.

Birmingham City are currently 15 th in the table on 11 points, at a level with 16 th Bolton and 17 th Hull City. They are at the positive end of the mark on a better goal difference and so long as they don’t lose by a huge margin to Liverpool, they will hold on to their place in the standings.

Liverpool enter this match as the favourites to win outright however, they are listed at rather pricey odds of -325 to win outright. They are expected to win so. But at such a hefty price they are not worth the risk. Birmingham City are unlikely to take anything away from Anfield Stadium so they would be a long shot bet at +1200 to win outright. They have shown some stoicism through the early season and therefore while they are expected to lose they are not expected to capitulate huge. The value in this match is betting on the score. Taking Liverpool to cover the spread at -1 ½ -115. And taking the combined totals at Over 2.5 goals -120, Liverpool to score over 2 goals at -120 and Birmingham City to score at least one goal at Over ½ -130 are some of the better options on offer.

Free Soccer Picks: Liverpool -325 | Liverpool -1 ½ -115 | Over 2.5 -120

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Premier League Betting: Chelsea vs. Manchester United

The clash between league leaders Chelsea FC and second placed Manchester United will be the most compelling clash on Sunday as these two sides are considered the top two contenders for the Premier League title this season. Chelsea, if truth were told, looks like the side to beat in this clash. Manchester United are the reigning champions though and nothing should be put past them, the least of which is showing up the Blues at Stamford Bridge.

Soccer Betting Line:
Chelsea -½ Ev Ev 2½ O +105 U -125 1 O -145 U +125 Draw +225
Venue: Stamford Bridge

Match Time: 11:00 A.M. Eastern Time Sunday November 8, 2009

Soccer Betting Verdict: Chelsea FC are finally looking like a football club and not just a Russian tycoons plaything. Chelsea have not looked this good in a while even though they have continued to be a successful club since Abramovich bought them over. Credit has to be given to Coach Carlo Ancelotti who took an already world class outfit and made them better than they are by transcending individual brilliance and creating a united front. A cohesive team. Together they have a new dimension that was never reached under Scolari or even interim coach Hiddink. The results speak for themselves.

Manchester United have lost some of the spark they had with the departure of Cristiano Ronaldo. Recently, however, they have picked up pace as Rooney and Berbatov are finally finding their scoring feet on the pitch. It is still not the same Man U of last season or the season before and this is a problem for Sir Alex Fergusson. Moreover, they are not as sound defensively as they used to be. Manchester United very nearly lost to CSKA Moskva in midweek Champions League action, only for a late equalizer that bounced off a CSKA defender did they salvage a point from the match.

Nevertheless, when these two sides collide they know how to raise the level of their games. It is expected that this clash will live up to the billing accordingly. Betting on the winner is a tossup theoretically where these two are concerned but if there were a tipping point, Chelsea’s current form tips the balance in their favour.

At Evens, they are an unappealing bet however. Man United are the more tempting play at +285 and if there were a side capable of rising to the occasion, they have to be considered such a side despite the various niggling problems they are showing. For all these parts, the totals is looking like the wisest strategy to take on this match. Better value for the risk. Taking the over 2.5 goals for combined team totals and the Over 1 goal for each respective side.

Free Soccer Picks: Over 2.5 +105 | Man U Over 1 Even| Chelsea Over 1 -145

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Champions League Betting Group H: Arsenal vs. AZ Alkmaar

Arsenal go into their return tie against AZ Alkmaar with an opportunity to clinch a spot in the knockout stages if they a win at the Emirates Stadium on matchday 4. Arsenal, currently leading Group H with seven points but only a point clear of Olympiacos in second, missed a valuable opportunity to advance their European bid when they settled on a 2:2 draw against AZ Alkmaar a fortnight ago. Not only did Arsenal miss clinching the spot in the knockout rounds then, but they also missed the chance to strengthen their hold on top spot. They have a second chance however to accomplish the feat when they welcome AZ Alkmaar to the Emirates.

AZ Alkmaar are third in the section on two points after two cycles. Another disappointing result would see their European campaign over. But to fancy their chances over Arsenal at the Emirates where the English outfit have been at their best is a bit of a stretch. Surely, even they know it. At best, Alkmaar can hope for a point.

Soccer Betting Line:

Arsenal F.C -2 Ev -550 3 O -130 U +110 2½ O -125 U +105 Draw +550

AZ Alkmaar +2 -120 +1400 3 O -130 U +110 ½ O +110 U -130 Draw +550

Venue: Emirates Stadium

Match Time: 02:45 PM Eastern Time Wednesday November 4, 2009

Soccer Betting Verdict: The Gunners are enjoying a great season so far and things are looking like they might finally be falling into place for Arsene Wenger and his Gunners. All the young talent he has been cultivating for some time now is coming through for him, his stars are producing, his injury list is shortening as more players are returning to health and finding their game fitness; and importantly, together the team is winning convincingly.

Arsenal are currently third in the domestic table on 22 points after ten cycles. They have gone 7-1-2 overall, in Premier League; significantly, they are 5-0-0 at home. Arsenal are in top spot in Group H and their ambition is to not only advance but also secure first place.

AZ Alkmaar are going into this match with very little to hope for in the competition, save for a third place finish and a chance to continue their European campaign at Europa League level. Alkmaar have proven to be weak against the heavyweights in the competition. While they enjoy a measure of success at in the Dutch League, they are simply outclassed at this level.

Alkmaar were frankly lucky to take a point away on matchday 3. Arsenal had one of their rare lapses in concentration and allowed the Dutch back into the match. They will not be so careless at the Emirates before their fans and they will be anxious to make amends for that misfortunate slip up. When better sides have tried to take points at the Emirates and failed, how are Alkmaar, with all their apparent weakness, to enjoy success where better have failed.

Free Soccer Picks: Arsenal -550 | Over 3 -130

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Drogba backed by Platini after ban comes to end

UEFA president Michel Platini believes Chelsea striker Didier Drogba will return to European football "better and stronger" following his three-match ban.

• Paper Round: Who would buy Manchester United or Chelsea?

Drogba is expected to return to line up against Atletico Madrid on Tuesday night following his suspension for verbally abusing Norwegian referee Tom Henning Ovrebo at the end of their semi-final defeat at the hands of Barcelona last season. Ovrebo had turned down a string of Chelsea penalty appeals.

"What I saw on TV was the comportment of Didier," added Platini. "All the TV showed the insult of Drogba, not the decisions. I was like Drogba in the past when I saw an injustice as a player. But I don't know Drogba's mind. He took the decision that he felt was right for him. He was alone in thinking that.

"Drogba's a good guy. I know him very well. He understands now that he made a mistake. Everybody does. He will come back better, stronger."

Platini also stressed he is not involved in the process of refereeing appointments and claims he still does not know Ovrebo's identity.

"When I arrive at a stadium, I don't know the name of the referee," said Platini. "That's the decision of the independent committee of referees. I was not there at Chelsea. I didn't know the name of the referee and I still don't.

"I don't know whether the referee made a mistake or not. If it was a mistake, I will say 'it's not a mistake' because I have to defend the referees."

Many Chelsea fans accused UEFA of a conspiracy against them, alleging that Platini wanted Barcelona to reach the final against Manchester United to prevent another all-Premier League showdown with the Blues.

"Do you think I am so stupid as to ask a referee to make Chelsea not get to the final?" said Platini.

"I always respect all the players and clubs. I don't interfere. If two English teams are in the final, I have no problem. If it's two Spanish teams, no problem. It's better if not two from the same country but it's not my problem.

"If they get there, they deserve to be there. It is not because I like Barcelona's system (of fan ownership) that I exempt them to go to the final!"

Soccer Picks

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Champions League Betting - Bordeaux vs. Bayern Munich

Bayern Munich and FC Girondins de Bordeaux will collide at Stade Chaban-Delmas to decide which side will take a handle on Group A. Leaders Bayern Munich are level with second placed Bordeaux on 4 points but on the advantageous side of the mark by virtue of a better goal difference.

Soccer Betting Line:

Bordeaux pk -120 +155 2½ O +115 U -135 Draw +225

Bayern Munich pk Ev +170 2½ O +115 U -135 Draw +225

Match Time: 12:30 P.M. Eastern Time Wednesday October 21, 2009

Venue: Stade Chaban-Delmas - Bordeaux - France

Bordeaux enter this match on the heels of back-to-back losses in Ligue 1. They lost to St. Etienne 3:1 and Auxerre 1:0. Both results were after a 1:0 victory over Maccabi Haifa on match day 2 in Champions League group action.

The French Champions slip up on the domestic front has seen them drop to third in the league table with an overall 6-1-2 mark after nine cycles. Both losses however came on the away. At Stade Chaban Bordeaux are enjoying a four match winning streak – five if one includes the victory over Maccabi. They will aim to maintain that perfect trend against Bayern.

Bayern Munich missed a chance to take control of Group A on match day 2 when they acquiesced to a scoreless draw against Juventus at home. Bayern will now hope to recover lost ground at the expense of Bordeaux who are showing clear signs of slowing down.

Bayern are after a 2:1 victory over at Freiburg at the weekend in Bundesliga action and they are undefeated in their last three matches. However, they could not prevent slipping in the table in spite of the semi-positive results. Bayern are now sixth in the table with an overall 4-3-2 mark. Indeed, modest by their standards and not an acceptable result given the talent on their bench.

Soccer Betting Verdict: Group A is wide open with Bayern and Bordeaux level on 4 points and Juventus nipping at their heels with 2 points. Maccabi have zero points but there are four matches left and still everything to play for in the group stage. The opportunity is there for the outfit willing to take the initiative.

It is a tossup as there is motivation on each bench to do so. Bordeaux will be confident with home edge and they are looking like a good bet at +155. Yet one can never underestimate Bayern Munich and at +170 they are a good bet as well to win this match and take control of the group. Given how tight the line is, the feeling is both sides will cancel each other out and settle for a draw at +225. In my opinion, neither side can afford to settle for the draw because it will then open the door for Juventus. They will play for the win. I fancy Bayern’s chances in this match as they are the more stoic side and better in pressure situations.

Soccer Free Picks: Bayern +170| Over 2.5 goals +115Bayern Munich and FC Girondins de Bordeaux will collide at Stade Chaban-Delmas to decide which side will take a handle on Group A. Leaders Bayern Munich are level with second placed Bordeaux on 4 points but on the advantageous side of the mark by virtue of a better goal difference.

Soccer Betting Line:

Bordeaux pk -120 +155 2½ O +115 U -135 Draw +225

Bayern Munich pk Ev +170 2½ O +115 U -135 Draw +225

Match Time: 12:30 P.M. Eastern Time Wednesday October 21, 2009

Venue: Stade Chaban-Delmas - Bordeaux - France

Bordeaux enter this match on the heels of back-to-back losses in Ligue 1. They lost to St. Etienne 3:1 and Auxerre 1:0. Both results were after a 1:0 victory over Maccabi Haifa on match day 2 in Champions League group action.

The French Champions slip up on the domestic front has seen them drop to third in the league table with an overall 6-1-2 mark after nine cycles. Both losses however came on the away. At Stade Chaban Bordeaux are enjoying a four match winning streak – five if one includes the victory over Maccabi. They will aim to maintain that perfect trend against Bayern.

Bayern Munich missed a chance to take control of Group A on match day 2 when they acquiesced to a scoreless draw against Juventus at home. Bayern will now hope to recover lost ground at the expense of Bordeaux who are showing clear signs of slowing down.

Bayern are after a 2:1 victory over at Freiburg at the weekend in Bundesliga action and they are undefeated in their last three matches. However, they could not prevent slipping in the table in spite of the semi-positive results. Bayern are now sixth in the table with an overall 4-3-2 mark. Indeed, modest by their standards and not an acceptable result given the talent on their bench.

Soccer Betting Verdict: Group A is wide open with Bayern and Bordeaux level on 4 points and Juventus nipping at their heels with 2 points. Maccabi have zero points but there are four matches left and still everything to play for in the group stage. The opportunity is there for the outfit willing to take the initiative.

It is a tossup as there is motivation on each bench to do so. Bordeaux will be confident with home edge and they are looking like a good bet at +155. Yet one can never underestimate Bayern Munich and at +170 they are a good bet as well to win this match and take control of the group. Given how tight the line is, the feeling is both sides will cancel each other out and settle for a draw at +225. In my opinion, neither side can afford to settle for the draw because it will then open the door for Juventus. They will play for the win. I fancy Bayern’s chances in this match as they are the more stoic side and better in pressure situations.

Free Soccer Picks: Bayern +170| Over 2.5 goals +115

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Champions League Football - VfB Stuttgart vs. Sevilla FC

Group G leaders Sevilla FC will be looking to continue their solid European form when they make the trek to VfB Arena in Stuttgart, Germany. The Spanish Primera outfit is after a narrow loss to La Coruna on the away in domestic action, ending a seven-match winning streak. They will be looking to rebound in UEFA Champions League action. Stuttgart meanwhile are having all sorts of problems both in domestic and European action. They are on the heels of back-to-back defeats in Bundesliga and this negative trend is after a disappointing 1:1 draw to Romanian Champions FC Unriea Urcizeni in Champions League group action.

Soccer Betting Line:

VfB Stuttgart +½ -130 +265 2½ O -105 U -115 Draw +225

Sevilla -½ +110 +105 2½ O -105 U -115 Draw +225

Match Time: 02:45 P.M. Eastern Time Tuesday October 20, 2009

Venue: VfB Arena - Stuttgart - Germany

Soccer Betting Verdict: Stuttgart started their European campaign with back-to-back draws against Rangers and Unriea, giving them two points in the competition and second place in Group G. However, this is not acceptable for the Bundesliga side. Moreover, they are even worse off in domestic action as they are middle of the table in 13th spot with an atrocious 2-2-5 mark. Stuttgart need to turn things around or else they will lose even more ground on both fronts.

Sevilla FC enter this match with everything to hope for and with a lot of confidence. Though they are after a narrow defeat to La Coruna on the away in domestic action they have been for the most part an impressive outfit in Primera. They are third in the table after hauling 15 points in seven cycles with a 5-0-2 mark. They are after hammering the Rangers 4:1 at the Ibrox on match day 2.

Free Soccer Picks : Sevilla at +105 is the value play. True, Stuttgart are undefeated in Europe but they are looking like they will succumb to their first defeat. You can bet on it. Sevilla are much too strong for them in my opinion and they are eager to win this match and take a stranglehold of Group G. There is nothing in Stuttgart’s current form to suggest they can stop the Spaniards. Expect this match to be another scoring showdown and the over 2 ½ -105 is the good bet.

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Premier League Betting: Fulham vs. Hull City

Fulham and Hull City are set to collide on Monday night at Craven Cottage. Fulham and Hull City are mired in the relegation fight after eight cycles in the Premier League. It is not a surprise to many soccer bettors that Hull is in the fight for survival but that Fulham is, is a bit of a surprise. Both sides are tied at 7 points, however, Fulham have a game in hand. Nevertheless, in light of such parity this match becomes even more important for both outfits to win.

Soccer Betting Line:
Fulham FC -½ -160 -160 2½ O Ev U -120 1½ O -115 U -105 Draw +260
Hull City +½ +140 +450 2½ O Ev U -120 1 O +140 U -160 Draw +260

Match Time: 03:00 PM Eastern Time Monday October 19, 2009

Soccer Betting Trend: The Cottagers are listed as the favourites at -160 to win outright, meanwhile the Tigers can be backed at discouraging odds of +450 t win outright. Hull city need the points just as much as Fulham. Both are sitting on seven points, with Hull’s atrocious goal difference pinning them down in the relegation quagmire ahead of 19th West Ham and 20th Portsmouth. Fulham has a chance to move to 11th spot in the table, a cushy mid-table spot, should they beat Hull tonight.

Fulham are 2-1-3 so far this season, which includes a 1-0-2 mark at home and a 1-1-2 mark on the road. More revealing is their recent scoring woes. In their three Premier League home matches, they failed to score in two encounters, combining for two goals for and four goals against.

Hull City have gone 2-1-5 so far this season, which includes a 2-0-2 mark at home and a 0-1-3 mark on the road. Hull City will be looking for their first road trip win on the season.

Discouraging is their terrible goal difference on the road. In their last four away matches, they have allowed 13 goals against and scored only four goals.

For all these parts and because of the importance of this match I expect this will be a cautious affair. A draw is a possible outcome as a loss to a relegation rival would be costly. However, Fulham has the home incentive and the balance tips in their favour in the market for the outright win at -160. Should Fulham manage to take all three points it will be through a marginal victory – 1:0 sounds about right. Therefore betting on a low goal tally is the best option. Take the Under 2 ½ -120 for combined team totals and Under 1 ½ -115 for Fulham.

Free Soccer Picks: Fulham -160 Team Totals Under 2 ½ -120 Fulham Under 1 ½ -115

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Monday Night Football: Broncos vs. Chargers – Football Predictions

When planning out how the conclusion to the NFL betting card for Week 6 would shape up, this matchup between the Denver Broncos and San Diego Chargers couldn’t have been scripted any better. ESPN has to be happy with this matchup.

On one side of the field, an AFC West team that has surprised many with its .500 start and defensive struggles, desperately seeking to generate something positive out of its second divisional game of the year. And then on the other, an opponent that has already established dominance in the West with wins at home and abroad and looks to this game as a chance to prove to a national TV audience that they are indeed for real.

It all sounds about right; only thing is that somebody forgot to let the Broncos in on the plan.

In a complete role reversal, Denver has busted out of the gate this season with a 5-0 SU/ATS start. Critics shot holes in the record at 3-0, citing the win at Cincinnati as fluke and the triumphs over Cleveland and Oakland as compulsory. But come from behind victories the past two weeks against Dallas and a New England silenced most detractors. The Patriots response to that overtime loss in Denver – a 59-0 blowout vs. Tennessee on Sunday – quieted the rest.

Online sportsbooks have the odds on this one set at -3.5 on the home side Chargers heading into Monday’s football predictions betting action. San Diego’s 5-1 record vs. Denver in the past six meetings also had to be taken into account.

Denver’s defense has been the real story this year, led by linebacker Elvis Dumervil (five sacks) and inspired by a rejuvenated Brian Dawkins on the back end. It’s taken the heat off QB Kyle Orton, allowing him to pad a now very impressive 26-12 record as a starter by simple managing the football game, not win it on his arm alone.

Chargers QB Philip Rivers has thrived under the Monday Night lights, posting a 4-0 record and a sparkling 106.9 passer rating, but San Diego will need its 32nd ranked run-game to come around if it hopes to compete against Denver.

Betting on the Broncos D to keep opponents in check has produced a perfect record of five-straight picks on the "Under" and against this Charger team that cranked out 52 points against them in Week 17, capping a miserable 2008 season, revenge is the order of the day.

San Diego is fully rested off its bye week and Denver has a bye on-deck. The Broncos used to play well before a bye (11-2 ATS) but they are 0-2 SU/ATS the past two years, giving up 82 combined points in those losses. Offensive dominated both meetings last year as these hated rivals combined for 150 total points.

This is the first of three-straight divisional games for San Diego but this does not shape up as a look-ahead spot for either team. More likely, this should turn into one of the hardest hitting Monday games bettors have been treated to all year.

NFL Picks: The Broncos season has been very impressive, but I lean to the Chargers laying -3 (buy the hook), as they get the job done at home on Monday night football.

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Monday Night Football: Broncos vs. Chargers – Football Predictions

When planning out how the conclusion to the NFL betting card for Week 6 would shape up, this matchup between the Denver Broncos and San Diego Chargers couldn’t have been scripted any better. ESPN has to be happy with this matchup.

On one side of the field, an AFC West team that has surprised many with its .500 start and defensive struggles, desperately seeking to generate something positive out of its second divisional game of the year. And then on the other, an opponent that has already established dominance in the West with wins at home and abroad and looks to this game as a chance to prove to a national TV audience that they are indeed for real.

It all sounds about right; only thing is that somebody forgot to let the Broncos in on the plan.

In a complete role reversal, Denver has busted out of the gate this season with a 5-0 SU/ATS start. Critics shot holes in the record at 3-0, citing the win at Cincinnati as fluke and the triumphs over Cleveland and Oakland as compulsory. But come from behind victories the past two weeks against Dallas and a New England silenced most detractors. The Patriots response to that overtime loss in Denver – a 59-0 blowout vs. Tennessee on Sunday – quieted the rest.

Online sportsbooks have the odds on this one set at -3.5 on the home side Chargers heading into Monday’s football predictions betting action. San Diego’s 5-1 record vs. Denver in the past six meetings also had to be taken into account.

Denver’s defense has been the real story this year, led by linebacker Elvis Dumervil (five sacks) and inspired by a rejuvenated Brian Dawkins on the back end. It’s taken the heat off QB Kyle Orton, allowing him to pad a now very impressive 26-12 record as a starter by simple managing the football game, not win it on his arm alone.

Chargers QB Philip Rivers has thrived under the Monday Night lights, posting a 4-0 record and a sparkling 106.9 passer rating, but San Diego will need its 32nd ranked run-game to come around if it hopes to compete against Denver.

Betting on the Broncos D to keep opponents in check has produced a perfect record of five-straight picks on the "Under" and against this Charger team that cranked out 52 points against them in Week 17, capping a miserable 2008 season, revenge is the order of the day.

San Diego is fully rested off its bye week and Denver has a bye on-deck. The Broncos used to play well before a bye (11-2 ATS) but they are 0-2 SU/ATS the past two years, giving up 82 combined points in those losses. Offensive dominated both meetings last year as these hated rivals combined for 150 total points.

This is the first of three-straight divisional games for San Diego but this does not shape up as a look-ahead spot for either team. More likely, this should turn into one of the hardest hitting Monday games bettors have been treated to all year.

NFL Picks: The Broncos season has been very impressive, but I lean to the Chargers laying -3 (buy the hook), as they get the job done at home on Monday night football.

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World Cup Qualifiers: Russia and Germany battle for top honors in Group 4

Moscow , Russia – The most anticipated clash of the World Cup qualifiers set to kick off on Saturday is the billing between Russia and Germany. Germany currently lead Group 4 with 22 points, a point clear of second place Russia. Germany are undefeated in eight qualifying matches, going 7-1-0 and they will look to continue the positive run at Luzhniki Stadium in Russia.

Russia aim to shock Germany on Saturday and assume control of Group 4 but they will be going against the soccer betting trend in the market. Russia are second in Group 4 after hauling 21 points with a 7-0-1 mark – ironically, their only loss came to Germany in Westfaenstadion, Dortmund last October.

Soccer Betting Line:

Russia pk -135 +135 2½ O -105 U -115 Draw +225 Germany pk +115 +175 2½ O -105 U -115 Draw +225
Match Time: 11:00 AM Eastern Time Saturday October 9, 2009

Soccer Betting Verdict: In many circles, Germany stack up as the favourites to win top spot in this group, yet interestingly, the market is not leaning towards Germany securing top spot in Moscow at the weekend.

Germany enter this match marginally long, tipped at +175 to win outright, to Russia at +135. The bookies are not sure they can hold their own in Russia after all. They are undefeated and they have a tradition of excellence on big stages so you might want to pound those odds regardless.

Gus Hiddink has done wonders with Russia’s national team – not for nothing did they hire him. Russia has emerged as one of the leading national teams in Europe and many believe they will book their ticket to South Africa one way or another. If not by winning top spot, surely, in the playoffs they will.

Russian supporters will be looking to Arshavin to lead their nation to victory. The way the kid has been playing for Arsenal and for his national team, you almost want to believe he would accomplish the feat singlehandedly. Naturally, he was the only goal scorer for his side in their 2:1 loss to Germany earlier in the qualifying rounds. His goal in the 51’ minute gave Russia hope after Germany took the 2-0 lead before half time. Alas, it didn’t amount to much.

This time around, Russia will have home edge though and as they have been impressive in Luzhniki Stadium, it is not improbable for the home side to win even against one of the most feared national teams in Europe, Germany,
Free Soccer Picks: Russia +135 Over 2.5 -105

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Free Soccer Picks: World Cup Qualifiers: Turkey Vs. Serbia

Serbia lead Group 7 with 19 points and they are a match victory away from securing their passage but they come up against a very good European side in Romania. The Romanians have no hope in this competition but that doesn’t mean they will roll over. Meanwhile, Turkey are hoping to secure second place in Group 5 but it is down to the wire and they need maximum points to accomplish the feat.

Here is a look at these matches, complete with BetUS soccer betting odds and lines.

Soccer Betting Line:

Belgium Turkey

Match Time: 02:45 P.M. Eastern Time Saturday October 10 2009

Soccer Betting Verdict: Turkey have a mountain to climb in Group 5. They are currently in third place with 12 points, four points behind Bosnia-Herzegovina in second place. Turkey have to win this match to put stay in contention and hope that Bosnia, at the same time suffers, a loss. Otherwise, a winning effort in this match will count for nothing and their campaign would be done and done. Belgium are fourth in the table with no hope in the competition. They just lost to Armenia, ending any theoretical chance they might have had last month.

The market favours Turkey to take the away win and I would agree. This match is theirs for the taking. Turkey national team is simply too good to miss the world final in South Africa.

Free Soccer Picks: Turkey +120 | Over 2.5 goals -115

Soccer Betting Line:

Serbia Romania

Match Time: 02:30 P.M. Eastern Time Saturday October 10 2009

Soccer Betting Verdict: Serbia has the chance to move closer to advancing through to the World Cup with a victory over Romania and there is no doubt that they will open a good account to gain all three points. The market leans towards the home side winning this match, listing odds at -175 to win outright. Romania lost all chance of qualification but they don’t plan to be pushovers. They took a point of their last match against France and most likely, they will be playing for pride and no less than a point in this one. Serbia might be too good in the end.

Free Soccer Picks: Serbia -170 | Over 2.5 -115

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FIFA World Cup Qualifier: USA vs. Honduras

It may surprise you to know that FIFA claims to be trying to make soccer more popular in North America. I have a few issues with how this striving project is being handled so far. Firstly, how is televising a game that could potentially clinch a spot for the USA in the 2010 FIFA World Cup Championship in South Africa on closed circuit TV going to further that endeavour?

Make no mistake; this is not pay-per-view that you can order and watch from a comfortable cocoon on your couch at home. Far from it. It’s a bar, or something or other, for you US soccer fans where, most likely, you will have to pay admittance, sit in some uncomfortable chair, and dole out some more for snacks and drinks. With any luck, you’ll strut into an establishment showing the game in your preferred language – there will be English or Spanish.

So how did this happen? Apparently, FIFA has a tradition allowing the host countries of World Cup qualifiers to sell the video rights to whomever they choose. Honduran Federation sold the English and Spanish rights to a media company named Media World. ESPN tried to buy the rights from Media World but was unable to reach a deal, nor were any other American cable providers.

FIFA maintains this practice allows national soccer federations to raise funds to support their operating costs of their World Cup campaign.

In principle, there isn’t much to solve. The intent behind this practice is fine but surely in the light of this development and others that are similar – Ukraine vs. England will only be transmitted online for a fee – another solution could be brought about.

But FIFA’s wearing oversized blinkers, claiming this is the best way and it is for the good of the game. National team games are part of the national public interest.

Is it just me or is that contrary! I mean wouldn’t broadcasting the match to a wider audience be more in keeping with FIFA’s professed objective to spread soccer’s popularity in the US, draw the interest of casual fans and snap up a few new fans.

I don’t know but FIFA can take a few lessons from other sports. NFL Red Zone is a new channel that the NFL owns that gives the viewing public more access to NFL games across the country and not just in their states vicinity.

Imagine if FIFA were to start a channel. That would be more in keeping with their desire to spread soccer in North America. And it would allow them to make more money (that if they still wanted to, could use to help member associations). Just an idea.

For now, FIFA has many T’d off fans to placate in USA, and maybe, more around the world even.

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Champions League Playoffs - Olympique Lyonnais vs. RSC Anderlecht

At Stade de Gerland in Lyon, Olympique Lyonnais treated their fans to a master class performance, drumming RSC Anderlecht 5:1 to take a chokehold over their playoffs fixture. The sight of the French League 1 giants spilling forward and scoring almost at will may not be unfamiliar to their loyal fans. Yet, it did send a strong message to the rest of the Champions League playing field of the serious intentions they have should they advance (almost certainly so) into what will be their tenth consecutive season in Europe’s most prestigious competition.

Meanwhile, the Belgians have a mountain to scale when they host the Lyonnais at Constant Vanden Stock Stadium in Brussels. The humiliating 5:1 loss a tough one to swallow, RSC Anderlecht will try to save face before their adoring fans. Importantly, the market on this match is rather conservative, with Lyonnais only marginally short to Anderlecht on the money line.

Soccer Betting Line:
Anderlecht pk +105 +165 2½ O -130 U Ev Draw +225
Olympique Lyonnais pk -135 +135 2½ O -130 U Ev Draw +225

Venue: Constant Vanden Stock Stadium - Brussels - Belgium
Match Time: 02:45 P.M. Eastern Time Tuesday August 25 2009

Soccer Betting Analysis:
Olympique Lyonnais took a giant step toward ensuring a tenth consecutive sojourn in Europe’s top-flight competition with the impressive 5:1 win. But work is not done yet and they cannot be complacent yet. They are offensive minded so they are most likely to continue with that tactic, ensuring another exciting confrontation with the Belgians. They are on fire and motivated after the big win. They are also coming off a big win in domestic action, beating Auxerre 3:0.

RSC Anderlecht’s hopes of going to Champions League this season are fading fast. The huge goal deficit is a mountain to claw back from. Thus they are practically one foot out of the competition. RSC recovered nicely in domestic action, beating Zulte Varegem 2:0 (Belgian League 1). They have pride and they will want to redeem themselves in some small part in front of their fans. As such, they should put forward a good account of themselves.

Soccer Betting Verdict:

RSC Anderlecht have no option but to look for scoring opportunities. They will have to attack if they hope to mastermind what will be a huge upset. With no choice but to attack, Lyon will look to expose any vulnerability on the counterattack. As such, this game should be wide open with goals pouring a plenty. The over 2.5 goals at -130 is your best value play. Lyon for the win as well.

Soccer Free Picks: Lyonnais +135| Over 2.5 goals -130

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Fire, Busch stay hot with win over Wizards

Busch, who is tied for second in MLS with eight shutouts this season, made two key saves late in the first half and another midway through the second.

Rolfe handed Busch the lead just 13 minutes into the online soccer betting game, and Banner clinched the match in the 89th to help the second-place Fire move back within four of the Columbus Crew in the Eastern Conference.

Chicago (9-4-8) has lost just once in its last six matches - last week against the Houston Dynamo - and won its MLS-best sixth road match.

Kansas City (5-8-6) is now winless in five straight and eight of its last nine and fell below .500 at CommunityAmerica Ballpark as interim coach Peter Vermes dropped his first match in place of recently fired Curt Onalfo.

Chicago quickly spoiled Vermes' debut when Rolfe and Marco Pappa combined on a great give-and-go on the right side. Rolfe sent a backward pass to Pappa, then made a nice run into the area and received a perfect return ball.

Rolfe then easily slotted past K.C. goalie Kevin Hartman for his fifth goal of the season.

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Football betting - Colts Lose Pro Bowl Safety - online soccer betting

Indianapolis Colts safety Antoine Bethea broke a bone in his right hand at practice yesterday.
A return day was not set for Bethea’s return.
The Colts host the Minnesota Vikings on Friday and are listed as a pick’em.

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Football betting -Trojans’ Top QB Injured - Online soccer betting

Although penciled in as the USC Trojans’ No. 1 QB, Aaron Corp will miss one to two weeks with a “crack in the head of his left fibula” according to ESPN.
Corp suffered the injury on practice Monday and his spot on the first-team offense will be taken by Matt Barkley.
USC is listed at -325 to win the Pac-10 conference.

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online soccer betting - TO Day To Day With Sprained Toe - Football betting

Buffalo Bills WR Terrell Owens was absent from most of practice on Tuesday because of a sprained toe.
Head coach Dick Jauron told the AP that it will take time to determine whether TO will play in the team’s preseason game against the Chicago Bears this Saturday.

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Baseball betting - Pedro Martinez Makes ‘09 Debut - sportsbook

,Pedro Martinez will make his first start for the Philadelphia Phillies when they play the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field tonight
Pedro has struggled a bit in his last 20 road games, going 7-13 straight up.
The Phillies are listed at -115.

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Online Soccer Betting – Preview on Phillies vs. Cubs Series Betting – Football betting

The Football betting season may be 3-4 weeks away. 2009 Football betting on as many NCAA teams as he can before the 2009/10 season kicks off.
We start from the top and move our way down so keep checking in for more Football betting previews for the 2009-2010 NCAA Football Season!
The Eagles and Bears have solid Football betting this year, and their fans are hoping that they have as much success as the Phillies and Cubs, who are either leading their division or closing in on the top spot.
The two meet at Wrigley Field for a three-game set beginning on Tuesday.

Phillies vs Cubs odds - Tuesday, August 11-Thursday, August 13
J.A. Happ (8-2, 2.74) vs Rich Harden (7-7, 4.41) - Tuesday, 8:05 PM ET
Happ is coming off a complete-game four-hit masterpiece in a shutout in Cincinnati, improving his road record to 4-1 in 12 games (seven starts) and a 1.72 ERA. Harden has given up a homer in four straight starts, but he hasn’t allowed more than two runs in five outings in a row. He’s fared well against the Phillies in his career, going 1-0 in three starts with a sparkling 0.90 ERA. However, he’s struggled at home, and Happ is fighting for a rotation spot. Put the Phillies in Tuesday’s online soccer betting

Cliff Lee (9-9, 2.95) vs Jeff Samardzija (1-1, 6.29) - Wednesday, 8:05 PM ET
Lee has given up two runs in 16 innings since joining the Phillies, and he’s already been to Wrigley in 2009, taking a no-decision to leave his career record against the Cubs at 1-0 in two starts with a 2.45 ERA.
Samardzija gets his first career start for the injured Carlos Zambrano, and he’s 1-1 in three relief appearances against Philadelphia with a 7.36 ERA. Samardzija has struggled with his control in the past, and going against Lee isn’t what the young hurler needs. Take the Phillies again in your sportsbook
Joe Blanton (7-6, 4.02) vs Ryan Dempster (6-5, 4.04) - Thursday, 2:20 PM ET
Blanton has dropped two in a row, and an earlier no-decision against the Cubs left him with a clean slate in two career starts, although he has a respectable ERA of 2.45. Dempster hasn’t lost since June 22nd, but he’s given up five runs in two of his five starts during that time.
He’s made 20 appearances against the Phillies, including 13 starts, posting a 4-3 mark with a pair of saves and a 4.76 ERA.
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Football betting - Rams’ Avery Out With Foot Injury - online soceer betting

The St. Louis Rams have lost starting WR Donnie Avery for four to six weeks with an injury to his left foot.
According to the examiner.com, Avery sustained the injury in a scrimmage on Friday night and the best-case scenario has him returning for the Rams’ Week 1 road matchup against Seattle.
St. Louis sees itself listed as a 7-point underdog for that game.

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NFL Football Betting - Hall of Fame Game: Bills vs. Titans – Soccer Betting

Time to raise the curtain on the 2009 NFL Football Betting, as it all gets going this weekend in Canton, Ohio with the Hall-of-Fame game.

The Hall-of-Fame game odds have been listed for a while now. The Tennessee Titans are 3-point favorites over the Buffalo Bills, with a Total set at 31. The number has actually moved a little at a number of online sportsbook, with some of them now showing -2.5.

SPORTSBETTING.com reported fairly balanced action over the first few days the line was posted, but Bills money has been showing up lately. Buffalo has 68% of all the action wagered on this one as we head into the weekend.

I think the sports betting public has this one right with the Bills action. I haven’t made a play on the side yet, and actually I rarely have in the Hall-of-Fame game, but I’m definitely leaning to the underdog. I think the Bills will be motivated to pick up a win, and when handicapping preseason NFL football betting, motivation is a huge factor.

Coach Dick Jauron is on the hot seat and while yes, this is just an exhibition game, believe me, Jauron and the team do not want to look bad. It will start the sports talk show phone lines buzzing early and have the print reporters already taking shots.

The same can’t be said for Jeff Fisher in Tennessee. He’s one of the most secure coaches in the game, coming off a very successful season. Add in the fact Fisher has never been much concerned with preseason wins (he has a sub-.500 career ATS mark in the preseason). There is absolutely no pressure on him, his staff or players if they drop their preseason games.

I’m looking at a Buffalo team that tries to win this game and again, in preseason, if a team tries to win a game they usually do.

NFL Football Betting Preseason Pick

Let’s look at that Total. On only four other occasions has there been a Total set lower than 31. Take note that in each of those four games they all went “Over” the posted number. I like this one to go “Over” as well. Looking at each teams past preseason scoring averages over the years (both what they score and what they give up), the basic numbers come in around the 37 point-mark. But I also think we’ll see these offenses, most notably the second and third string offenses, be able to put up a few points, enough for us to cash on this “Over” play.

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Soccer Betting - “Giant” Deal For Manning – Online Betting

ESPN is reporting that QB Eli Manning has agreed to a six-year, $97.5 million contract extension with the New York Giants.

The youngest Manning brother is listed at +2000 to win the NFL’s regular season MVP award.

For Giants fans, that is great news; with training camp starting, Pierce can now get back to online betting.

The Burress incident in New York in late November was a major distraction to the Giants and Pierce. Late in the season, Pierce looked like a distracted player.

I would be too if legal figures were questioning me about a certain incident.

But now, that is over for Pierce.

Pierce can get back to being the captain and vocal leader of the Giants defense.

Some were saying online sportsbook at SPORTSBETTING.COM Pierce was getting too old and too slow last season, but I think the Burress incident was what caused Pierce to not play up to his expectation of play.

At 30-years-old, Pierce is still a great linebacker who hits hard, reads offensive plays and gets a ton of tackles and some sacks when blitzes.

Bottom line, Pierce is too valuable to lose on defense for the Giants.

Now that his mind is clear and he's out of any legal trouble, his focus goes back to winning football games and getting the Giants to a fifth straight playoff appearance.

Pierce is going to look to silence a lot of critics this year that dragged his name in the mud in the off-season. Some called him dumb, some called him a criminal, and some just called him stupid. Don't think Pierce forgot those comments.

Because those will add onto his motivation to be a better player in '09.

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Soccer Picks - Texas Two-Step

The Houston Texans saw two starters injured at practice yesterday.

Starting CB Jacques Reeves suffered a fractured left leg and starting C Chris Meyers suffered a high ankle sprain.

Houston opens exhibition play against the Kansas City Chiefs on August 15 and is listed as a 2-point underdog.

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Online Soccer Betting-English,Spanish soccer weekend preview

It's a busy weekend on the soccer pitch, as the EPL season continues, while La Liga kicks off in Spain.

In EPL action this weekend three of the big four are on the fixture, with Manchester United the only one getting the weekend off. On Saturday Arsenal takes on Newcastle United, while on Sunday Chelsea takes on Tottenham Hotspur, and Liverpool faces Aston Villa.

Arsenal is coming off an upset 1-0 loss to Fulham last weekend which paid well to any bettors who went with the underdog.

AT Sportsbetting.com the Gunners are heavily favored to bounce back this weekend against Newcastle United as a -235 favorite.
Newcastle United is a +745 underdog, and the draw odds were set at +310.

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