NFL - Week 3

No time for analysis this morning - just picks:

Jets (-1)
Eagles (-7.5)
Browns (+13.5)
Giants (-6)
Lions (+6.5)
Rams (+6.5)
49ers (+6.5)
Falcons (+4)
Bears (-2.5)
Bills (+6)
Dolphins (+5.5)
Steelers (-3.5)
Raiders (+2)
Colts (+3)
Texans (-4)
Panthers (+9)

Football Frenzy - 11 Hot Dog Weiners

This is the Saturday that we turn the college football season around. Get up on the train and ride it. Woo Woo!

Unpickable Master Locks - CFL

Minnesota @ Northwestern - Line is a Pick Em - We're very, very surprised by the Vegas line in this game. For a variety of reasons, we've had ample opportunity to catch a lot of Golden Gopher football so far this season - and we are impressed with this team. Sure they barely escaped an opening weekend trip to the Carrier Dome, but they got the W. Northwestern couldn't achieve the same result against the Cuse. More impressive was Minnesota's effort last week against a very good Cal team. The Gophers hung with Cal for a large majority of that game and simply ran out of gas. However, we have not seen anything remotely similar from Northwestern this season. Hence our surprise at this Pick Em line. By the way, if you have not had the opportunity to see Minnesota WR Eric Decker play, then you are missing out. That kid is a football player, plain and simple. We really, really like Minnesota in this game. Take them to win. LOCK IT UP

California @ Oregon - Line is a California -5.5 - The Locks has a very, very complicated relationship with the Bears. In almost every season we fall in love with the Cal team only to overload on a "LOCK" that they simply don't show up for. This pattern of behavior has caused us to be very wary of Cal. However, we've reached the point in the season - which we do every season - in which we believe that this Cal team is different and the normal rules don't apply. So, with that in mind, we firmly believe that the Bears will roll right through Oregon without looking ahead to USC and deliver a thoroughly impressive beating. We understand that Oregon is not a fun place to play. But let's not forget that this Oregon team's season ended with the punch heard round the world. Cal has everything to play for and we think they finally get this playing up to their potential correct. Here's to four more Jahvid Best touchdowns. Take California to cover the -5.5 points. LOCK IT UP

TCU @ Clemson - Line is Clemson -2.5 - We have to be completely honest, the only things we know about TCU, other than that they are nicknamed the Horned Frogs, we have read. We haven't seen a single snap involving this team this season. However, we like what we've read. Especially the part about how fast this team is. Speed is a hugely underrated advantage in the college game. Plus, we don't care for many of these middle-of-the-road ACC teams. They get too much love with not enough results. We love the fact that TCU is getting some points to play with here. They are going to be amped for the outright W and we think they get it done. Take TCU, buy half a point so you're getting 3 and enjoy the ride. LOCK IT UP

Iowa @ Penn St. - Line is Penn State -10 - We've been skeptical of Penn State all season. Not that we don't think they are a solid team, but we just don't think they have deserved the point spreads they've been granted. And you know what, at most they've covered one time, and we're not even sure that happened. This is yet another line that strikes us as a bit large. Iowa is a tough opponent and Penn State just doesn't seem to have the killer instinct. This feels like a hard fought, low scoring Big 10 battle that will go down to the end. Penn State will win with the help of their huge fan-driven "White Out" but not by enough. We say take Iowa and the points (+10). LOCK IT UP

Other Games to Strongly Consider:

Rutgers (-1) @ Maryland - Buy this down half a point to Rutgers (-.5)

Boise State (-16.5) @ Bowling Green - It is the Boise State Theorem. You got to trust math.

Cincinnati (-17) vs. Fresno State - Buy this down half a point to Cincy (-16.5)

Georgia vs. Arizona State - Take the over (51 points)

Florida State (-14) vs. South Florida - USF is starting a red-shirt freshmen QB after four-year starter blew out his ACL last week. Buy the line down half a point to FSU (-13.5)

Washington (+8.5) @ Stanford - How is Stanford getting this much respect?

Miami (-3) @ Virginia Tech - We are buying the Miami hype even though we're long-time Hokie supporters. Buy this one down half a point to Miami (-2.5)

Friday Night Lights

Just to get you warmed up for another football weekend, here are some Locks:

Unpickable Master Locks - MLB:

St. Louis @ Colorado - The Rockies are good and need to find wins to lock up that NL Wild Card, though the Giants certainly are not making that very difficult for Colorado. However, the Cardinals have come to town and they're placing on the game's premier pitchers on the mound at Coors Field. We love backing the Cards and we love backing Chris Carpenter. We'll do it again. Take St. Louis (-150) to spoil Aaron Cook's return to the Rockie rotation. Final score is 4-2. LOCK IT UP

Baltimore @ Cleveland - Fausto Carmona alert! One of the few starters in baseball for whom getting out of the first inning is not a given. How far has Carmona fallen since his stellar 2007? I'm not sure we have measuring devices equipped to provide an answer to that question. Here's another chance for the Locks to tout the young Orioles bats and a chance for those bats to earn some SportsCenter time. We like the O's in a laugher. Take Baltimore (-102) to win 8-3. LOCK IT UP

Atlanta @ Washington - Might as well make it 3 for 3 on road teams. Javy Vazquez is quietly having a very, very good season. There has never been any doubt about that guy's stuff. He's seeking win number 15 tonight and at this point of the season, these guys need to find something to play for. Washington showed spunk for about 10 days in August and is now back to being the horrible team that they are. We'll take the Bravos (-175) to win this one 7-2. LOCK IT UP

Unpickable Master Locks - CFL:

Missouri @ Nevada - (Line is Missouri -7.5) - I just got through preaching taking the home dog in prime time nationally televised games last night (and SC took care of business) and now I'm going to go against my own philosophy. You're damn right I am. The Wolfpack is not a good football team. They can do a little or this and a little of that on offense, but defensively they are bankrupt. And here comes the high-octane Mizzou offense showing no signs of missing Chase Daniels or Jeremy Maclin. This one does not appear to be shaping up to be a good game. We think it's over by the half. That said, we do advise purchasing .5 points to get the line down to an even 7. Take Missouri -7 (-120). Final score is 45-27. LOCK IT UP

A Vitrual Sporting Smorgasbord

Ahhhh, Thursdays in late September. These are hallowed days for sports fans. Not only do we have a few key baseball games being played with major playoff implications but we also have a big-time SEC battle in prime time. And, hold on a second, did I mention the biggest softball game in the storied history of the 70s Style Bush? Talk about playoff implications, the Bush's life is on the line tonight. So let's take tonight's action in order of importance, starting with least:

Unpickable Master Locks - MLB:

Seattle @ Toronto - This is the time of year you see studs whose teams or out of contention put in big performance in their quest to secure some award votes. This feels like such a game with King Felix looking for some way to close ground on Zack Greinke in the AL Cy Young chase. Felix ain't gonna get there but that won't be because of tonight's effort. Look to him to shut down a Toronto team that some folks thought was going to be relevant because they beat up on the AL's worst teams in April. The Blue Jays are a bunch of humps. From the starters to the bullpen to bench. They are a bunch of Canadian buttnuts. The King will not treat them kindly. Take Seattle (-155) to win north of the border. Final score is 4-2. LOCK IT UP

Boston @ Kansas City - The Royals have had a bit of fun knocking around the Sox this week. And, I must admit, I've had fun watching it happen. Be warned, the fun is over. Clay Buchholz who we don't love has been pitching very, very well. More importantly, the Royals, who have started the likes of Sidney Ponson and Bruce Chen this season, are giving the ball to Anthony Lerew who wasn't even in AAA. This does not have the makings of a competitive game. Take the Red Sox (-200) to move a step closer to clinching the wild card. Final score is 8-3. LOCK IT UP

San Diego @ Colorado - The Rockies are too good a team to drop two in a row this time of year vs. the Padres. Jason Hammel has been pitching like a fairly dependable starter recently. The Padres are playing out the string, albeit with dignity and effort. That got them a win last night. It doesn't mean there will be a second in a row. We like the Rocks (-200) to cruise to a 6-3 victory. LOCK IT UP

Unpickable Master Locks - CFL:

Mississippi @ South Carolina - (Line is Mississippi -4.5) - Ole Miss spent the summer being the face name of the tongue of nearly every analyst as this next big team to burst on the scene this season. So far, they've looked great.....against Memphis and Southeastern Louisiana - not exactly Florida and Texas. South Carolina will serve as the very first test for this untested team. The fact that this game is at South Carolina and in prime time does not bode well for Ole Miss in our estimation. We're usually fond of taking home dogs in Thursday night games on ESPN. They will typically be playing the biggest game of their season and in front of the biggest audience. This does amazing things to college kids. South Carolina has already shown an ability to hang with tough opponents both in and out of conference. The fact that they have been tested already this year is another big plus for them. We're not sure the Gamecocks will win this game but we do think they'll keep it close to the end. With that in mind, we'll take South Carolina and the points (+4.5). LOCK IT UP


Unpickable Master Lock - Pleasant Hill D League Softball:

70s Style Bush @ Blash - This is a make-up game from earlier this season when the Blash couldn't get their team together. It figures that it got moved to the final week when playoff lives and seedings are on the line. Blash is comfortably in the playoffs but can slide as low as the three seed with a loss tonight. The Bush is not as lucky. A loss to Blash coupled with an expected win by the Dirtbags and 70s Style will not even have the opportunity to defend their title in the post-season.

This is the type of game the Bush has proven adept at winning in recent seasons. Nothing wakes this team more than having its back against a wall or, in Cadillac's case, a creek bed. Sadly, the team goes into this, its biggest battle, without a full platoon. Absences by Pink Cadillac, Johnny Y, Fordo and Smitty thin out the bench and mean others will need to rise to the occasion. The Locks thinks that happens. Pitching and defense are the hallmarks of this squad and they'll be on display tonight. The wild card is always the offense. Tonight, big hits will be supplied by Scurry, Hussle and Big John, while the rest of the team just does what needs to be done to move runners over and extend innings. When all is said in done, the Bush will prevail in this battle of teams for whom there is no love loss. We're locking up a trip to the post-season for the Bush. I can taste my celebratory PBR tall boy already. Final score 9-8. LOCK IT UP

LA Face with Oakland Booty

Oh, my, god. Becky, look at her butt.
It is so big. *scoff* She looks like,
one of those rap guys' girlfriends.
But, you know, who understands those rap guys? *scoff*
They only talk to her, because,
she looks like a total prostitute, 'kay?
I mean, her butt, is just so big.
I can't believe it's just so round, it's like,
out there, I mean - gross. Look!
She's just so ... black!

That's right, it's a long overdue return to rapping hump day MLB picks. Here we go, with a little inspiration from Coolio:


Unpickable Master Locks - MLB:

Cincinnati @ Pittsburgh - As I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I take a look at my and realize there's not much left. Coz I've been blastin and laughin so long, that even my mama thinks that my mind is gone.

The Locks imagines that the Reds' Homer Bailey was taking a similar stroll through death's valley in mid-August. He was sitting on a 2-4 record with a 7.53 ERA and had just gotten lit up yet again, this time by the weak-hitting SF Giants. But you know what? Little Homer has come full circle for the Locks this season. Whereas we used to mortgage the farm against Cincy when Bailey took the ball, we're now seeking out games he's pitching to back the Reds. A little stretch of 3-1, 1.83 over six starts will do that. There has never been a doubt about HB's ability, he's just needed to learn how to pitch at the big league level. Looks like he might have put in enough tutoring time because the results are speaking for themselves. Plus, the Reds dominate the Pirates - having won 6 straight against the Bucs. Cincy should make that 7 straight tonight and push Pitt another game closer to another 100 loss season. Take the Reds (-131) to win, 6-3. LOCK IT UP

Detroit @ Cleveland - I'm a loc'd out gangsta set trippin' banger and my homies is down so don't arouse my anger, fool. Death ain't nothing but a heartbeat away, I'm living life, do or die, what can I say. I'm 23 now, but will I live to see 24? The way things are going, I don't know.

Wee Ricky Porcello is not even 21, no less 23 but the way he has pitched as a rookie, he should be seeing 24 and 34 and maybe even 44. This guy is definitely "trippin' banger" - whatever that means. However, the biggest question for him tonight, and most nights, is whether his offensive homies will be down. With the Tigers, the answer to that question has been no more often than not this season, fool. Detroit seems to have finally realized that they are playing meaningful games in the midst of an important pennant race, so we're expecting guys like Miggy, Curtis and Placido to start to turn it on. That will be music to Porcello's ears as he locks down his third win against the Tribe this season. Take Detroit (-120) to win 7-4. LOCK IT UP

Minnesota @ Chicago - Power and the money, money and the power. Minute after minute, hour after hour. Everybody's running but half of them ain't looking. What's going on in the kitchen, but I don't know what's kickin'. They say I gotta learn, but nobody's here to teach me. If they can't understand it, how can they reach me. I guess they can't, I guess they won't. I guess they front, that's why I know my life is out of luck, fool.

I could have sworn I heard a drunk Ozzie Guillen reiterate this passage verbatim this season. It reeks of Ozzie, right down to the kitchen/kickin' line that really doesn't make any sort of sense. The larger point though, is that Guillen thinks his guys can't and won't and that they front - none of which is good for a ball player. The Twins on the other hand are somehow playing meaningful baseball games in late September yet again. Not sure anyone really saw this happening, especially with Morneau on the shelf. Yet, here they are and they ain't going away. Tonight's starter Brian Duensing is on fire of late: 4-0, 1.45 in his last 6 starts. This one is a simple case of one team wanting the win and another team that is running but half of them ain't looking. Oh, by the way, Mark Buehrle is pitching and he has been terrible since tossing his perfect game. Take Minny (+106) to win 6-2. LOCK IT UP

Spending most our lives, living in the gangsta's paradise
Tell me why are we, so blind to see
That the one's we hurt, are you and me*

* You only hurt yourself by disregarding the Locks' UMLs.

Monday Night Football - Colts - Dolphins

This is a huge game this week for the Locks. Following a lackluster Sunday in which we went 6-9, we need this game to prevent the dreaded 10-loss week. Here we go:

Indianapolis @ Miami - (Line is Colts -3) - Over the past year or so we've rapidly shifted from Colts backer to Colts basher. This is all largely the result of Indy's inability to cover any spread. They are a good team that knows how to win. They just don't know how to win by enough. This was apparent yet again last Sunday when they beat the Jags by a mere 2 points at home. So how on earth do we expect them to go to Miami and cover a 3 point spread? Easily, because the Dolphins stink. There will be plenty of spotlight shining on Peyton tonight, which has not always been a great thing. However, we think he'll shine in this match up. Reggie Wayne and Dallas Clark will be the primary recipients of Manning's aerial assault and we expect to use the word rejuvenated when referencing Joseph Addai's effort tomorrow morning. The Fins on the other hand have very little to get excited about. They will try to establish a running game to neutralize Dwight Freeney and Co's pass rush. However, we don't have much love for Ronnie Brown, in fact we don't think he should be starting ahead of Mr. Medicinal Marijuana. The pass guy will be woeful as Pennington is lame and his receiving corp even lamer. This one will stay somewhat close (it is the Colts after all) but Indy will pull away in the fourth quarter. Take the Colts (-3) to win 27-20. LOCK IT UP

FOOTBALL!!!!!

NFL Week 2. No Lead-In Necessary:

Sunday Early Games:

Oakland @ Kansas City - Line is Kansas City -3 - The Raiders opened quite a few sets of eyes with their performance against the Chargers on Monday night. They look to be far from the joke that most expected coming into the season. Darren McFadden has changed the complexion of the Oakland offense, opening some passing lanes for Mr. Biggins (JaMarcus Russell) and making the Raiders a bit more dynamic. On top of that, the Oakland defense is legit and hard hitting. KC also played a much better game than most expected last week, keeping things tight in Baltimore will into the 4th quarter. However, we don't buy the talent level on this team. Especially with Matt Cassell another game time decision. Larry Johnson will not find any running room in this game and Tony Gonzalez lives in Atlanta these days. We'll take the Raiders and the points. Take Oakland (+3) to win 24-20. LOCK IT UP

Houston @ Tennessee - Line is Tennessee -7 - The Texans are not nearly as bad as the Jets made them look last week. Unfortunately, this might not be the week they get to show that to the public. The Titans are a nasty group, especially on defense. They're going to be awfully ornery following the loss to Pittsburgh. However, this is a divisional game and 7 points is a very big line especially when Andre Johnson and Steve Slaton are out to redeem their Week 1 performances. The fact is that everything that could have gone wrong for the Texans did in week 1. That won't happen again. They'll keep this one close but lose in the end. We'll take the Texans (+7) in a game that ends 27-21. LOCK IT UP

New England @ New York Jets - Line is NE -3.5 - Hands down, without a question, this it the game that has received the most hype this week. However, almost all the talk has come from the Jets side of the field. With the Patriots as their opponent, that makes me somewhat nervous. The world got to see just how slippery the Pats can be on Monday night when they pulled a rabbit out of their ass against the Bills. Now we have Bill Belichick coming into Jersey with a game plan for a rookie QB. Sanchez is going to see things he's never seen before. It doesn't help that Jerrod Mayo is out for this one. In the end, I don't think it will matter. Offensively, the Pats will provide a much, much bigger challenge than the Texans did. I'm not sure the much improved Jets D will be able to match up with Moss, Welker, Morris, Watson, etc. We think that Jets' fans will have to cool their jets for the week. To be safe, we'll buy the line down to 3. Take New England (-3) to win this one, 31-27. LOCK IT UP

Cincinnati @ Green Bay - Line is GB -9 - If the Bungels can't beat the pathetic Broncos at home, what the hell are they going to do against the Packers at Lambeau Field? The Packs offense should be able to go up and down the field fairly easily and the opportunistic Pack D will make things tough on Carson Palmer and the Ocho. So much for this being a year of optimism in Cincy. That week 1 meltdown is going to haunt them for a while. Take the Packers -9 to win handily, 34-17. LOCK IT UP

Minnesota @ Detroit - Line is Minnesota -10 - This is a very interesting game. The Lions have not won since 2007 and the Vikings looked pretty impressive pulling away from the Browns last week. However, we have reasons to believe that Detroit will keep this one closer than some expect. For one, Brett Favre is what we call a hump. We will not win the Vikings games this year, he'll only lose them. Secondly, as good as the Vikings run defense is, their secondary is suspect. We can see Megatron having himself quite a week and Matthew Stafford even turning a few heads. At the end of the day, AP will get his yards and win the game for the Vikings. However, running plays mean a running clock so this game will shorten up and make it a bit tougher to cover the big line. We are going to go out on a limb and support the lowly Lions. Take Detroit (+10) to hang in a game that the Vikings ultimately win 28-20. LOCK IT UP

New Orleans @ Philadelphia - Line is Saints -1.5 - This line has me scratching my head. Maybe that is because I think the Eagles are going to the Super Bowl this season. So you can imagine my surprise when I see Philly as a home dog - especially following their thorough domination of the Panthers last week. Sure McNabb may not play but it was the defense that looked the most impressive last week. The Saints are in for a big surprise this week. This is not the Detroit Lions that they are playing. Drew Brees will do well but not well enough to win in Philly. The Saints will get a steady dose of Brian Westbrook and LeSean McCoy. This will shorten the game and keep Brees on the sidelines. When Brees does get on the field, he'll taste a steady diet of the exotic blitzes that the Eagles have become known for. Not having a reliable run game (and no, I don't consider Mike Bell reliable) will also hurt the Saints. I'm not sure this game is even that close. Take the Eagles (+1.5) to win 27-24. LOCK IT UP

Carolina @ Atlanta - Line is Atlanta -6 - One thing to know about this game and all games between NFC South teams is that the home team always wins. Setting that aside, we kind of like the Panthers in this one. For one, we don't buy Atlanta one bit. They beat up on a bad Dolphins team last week. Nothing about that game impressed us. Granted, the Panthers looked like one of the worst teams in the league last week but they did get throttled by our pick for representing the NFC in the Super Bowl. We think that Jake Delhomme has a bit of a bounce back week and the Panthers run game will find much more room against the Falcons. In our mind, 6 points are just too many, especially in a big divisional match up. We'll take Carolina (+6) in a nail biter. Final score is Atlanta 21-20. LOCK IT UP

St. Louis @ Washington - Line is Washington -9.5 - I'm really surprised at the number of mediocre teams that are giving a significant number of points this week. What reason is there for the Skins to be a 9.5 point favorite against anyone? Jason Campbell is still their QB, right? The Rams are not as bad as they looked last week. The deeper we get into this season the more people will realize that the Rams played a very tough team last week at a very tough place to play. We don't think the Rams are a playoff team but they shouldn't be such a big dog to the Skins. That is simply absurd. Quote me on that. We're taking the Rams (+9.5). This game will be a 23-20 battle to the end. You pick the winner, we'll just take the points. LOCK IT UP

Arizona @ Jacksonville - Line is Jaguars -3 - We have to borrow a warning already issued by ESPN's Sports Guy with regard to this game. That would revolve around a West Coast team traveling East to play an early game. It rarely works out well for the road team. We'll plant this game firmly in that territory. Add that to the fact that we think the Cards are wildly overrated due to their nice Super Bowl run last season. MJD will have a field day tomorrow and the Cards will have a tough time getting their offense going. We like the Jags (-3) to win 20-14. LOCK IT UP

Sunday Afternoon Games:

Seattle @ San Francisco - Line is SF -1 - As we've written above, we're big fans of the Seahawks this season. Hasselbeck and the defense are both back. And while the Niners are vastly improved this is a week-by-week situation with that team. They'll have their ups and downs all season. Last week was an up, and an impressive one at that. This week will be a down. We like Hasselbeck to pick apart the Niners secondary and move the Seahawks up and down the field. The game will be close but the dog wins another. Take Seattle (+1) as they win 27-23. LOCK IT UP

Tampa Bay @ Buffalo - Line is Bills -4.5 - We love this game. The Bucs are terrible (don't be fooled by last week's game against Dallas) and on the road. The Bills are a resilient team that is only going to feed off of that Monday night collapse. Buffalo will come out swinging early and pull away in the second half. Bill Cosby and the rest of the Buttaneers will wish they had stayed in Flo-Rida. Take the Bills (-4.5) to win 31-14. LOCK IT UP

Cleveland @ Denver - Line is Denver -3.5 - I'd really rather not have to pick this game but I will anyway. This is a question of what team do we think is worse. That is an easy question because we don't think many teams are as bad as the Broncos (despite last week's miracle). The Browns did show some spunk last week against the Vikings before folding up shop in the second half. They also have Joshua Cribbs who can change any game in any number of ways in an instant. This one will be tough on the eyes but you will be able to make some dough. Take the Browns (+3.5) to win 17-13. LOCK IT UP

Baltimore @ San Diego - Line is San Diego -2.5 - The good news for Baltimore, they looked like an excellent offensive team last week. The bad news, they played Kansas City. Things won't be that easy this week, especially since they'll be traveling 3,000 miles or so. Folks are getting a bit up in arms over the Chargers based on their Monday nighter against Oakland. We're not one of them. Philip Rivers is going to be a major, major force this season and Darren Sproles will pick up the LT slack. We think the Ravens will not enjoy their stay in San Diego. The best they can hope is to stay classy. Take the Chargers (-2.5) to win 24-17. LOCK IT UP

Pittsburgh @ Chicago - Line is Steelers -3 - This one made me actually stop, rub my chin and take a breath. Wow. A battle that can go many ways. The Bears are missing Urlacher but played pretty darn well against GB last week despite 4 picks from Jay Cutler. The Steelers are missing Troy P and were very, very lucky to squeak out a win against Tennessee last week. Pitt can't run the ball but Big Ben looks like he's ready to carry the offensive load. Chicago expects to run with Matt Forte but this is a tough game for that to happen. The game is in Soldier Field. Jay Cutler needs to bounce back. The Steelers are defending Super Bowl champs who figure out how to win these types of games. Like I said, Wow. When all else fails, take the points. We'll go with Chicago (+3) and hope for the best. Final score is 17-16. LOCK IT UP

Sunday Night Game:

NY Giants @ Dallas - Line is Dallas -2.5 - We love the fact that Big Blue is a dog in this game. They will win it outright and it won't be that close. Look to Jacobs and Bradshaw to rack up the yardage and break Dallas' defensive spirit. Also look for Kevin Boss to go for not one but two red zone TDs. Romo may expose the Giants secondary at times but it will not be nearly enough. Romo will also spend several moments looking up at the new big screen from his back. Here's hoping that several punts hit the video screen and Jerry Jones is exposed for the knucklehead that he is. Gmen (+2.5) to win outright. Final score is 31-30. LOCK IT UP

The Day that College Football Made It Rain

We hope that you've got a bankroll to work with because we're providing a number of can't miss money makers. You're gonna make your bookie cry today. Enjoy it!

Unpickable Master Locks:

Cincinnati @ Oregon State - (Line is Cincinnati -1.5) - This is a game that pundits are going to try to convince you that the travel to the west coast might be an issue for Cincy. Let me dispel that right now. It won't be an issue. This Bearcat team is fired up and playing some of the best football in the country thus far. We love this team and love the fact that they give the Big East a bit of credibility. The defense is a swarming group that flies to the ball. They also have an under-the-radar playmaker in Mardy Gilyard. We expect the Bearcats to come out and make a statement tonight. Take Cincinnati (-1.5) to win 42-24. LOCK IT UP

Texas Tech @ Texas - (Line is Texas -18.5) - Here is another game that is getting a lot of hype as a "revenge" game. It is amazing all the time that the media spends making up reasons that the best teams in the country will play well. Isn't being one of the best teams in the country enough? In this case, we definitely think so. Texas is a very, very, very good team on both sides of the ball. This is a team that is not going to play many close games this season. Texas Tech is a nice story most years. They run a high-octane offense that many schools don't see enough to stop. However, the talent on offense has taken a hit with the departures of Harrell and Crabtree. Furthermore, Tech's offensive scheme is not going to surprise or confuse the Longhorns. We look to Texas to continue their march toward a potential bid in the national title game with a big win in Austin. Take Texas (-18.5) to win 52-27. LOCK IT UP

Michigan State @ Notre Dame - (Line is Notre Dame -10.5) - In previous years, we would have been all over Michigan State in this one. Those ND teams were not very good and Michigan State always played them tough. However, in spite of last week's loss to Michigan, this is a good ND team. I think they'll be able to put last week behind them and put forth a pretty dominating performance today. This is not a very good Michigan State team and the fans in South Bend will make this an uncomfortable game for the Spartans. Look for a big bounce back from Fighting Irish this week. Take ND (-10.5) to win 34-14. LOCK IT UP

Other Games to Consider:

Tennessee @ Florida - (Line is Florida -30) - This is the type of point spread that you expect when a top 5 team is playing a team that you've never heard of, not when you are looking at a key conference showdown in the SEC. Alas, these are the times we now live in with the Florida Gators. A lot is being made of Lane Kiffin providing Tim Tebow and the rest of the Florida squad added motivation in this game. You know what, we buy that thinking. When you're as good as Florida for as long as they've been, these games an tend to run together. It doesn't hurt for this team to a have a little bit of added incentive. We really are at a loss for seeing how Tennessee will score any points in this game. 10 points for the Vols will be a success. With that in mind, breaking down the point spread just means do you think the Gators can go over 40 points in this one. The answer is a resounding yes. Look to this one to get ugly early and then get uglier and uglier. Take Florida (-30) to win 59-10. LOCK IT UP

USC @ Washington - (Line is USC -19.5) - USC is getting a ton of respect in this game and Vegas is treating Washington like it is 2008 all over again. That is a mistake. This is Washington's game of the year, the one they have had circled all summer. Their stadium is one of the loudest in the country, which will not be good news for USC's back-up QB who gets the start with Barkley banged up. More importantly, UW has some playmakers this season. QB Jake Lockler is a man. He can throw and he can run and he knows how to run the offense. USC has got to experience a bit of a letdown following all the hype surrounding last week's game at OSU. We're not predicting a UW win but we do think this game stays a lot closer than some expect. USC is going to lean on the run which is going to eat up clock at shorten the game (making it much tougher to cover a big spread). Take UW and the points (+19.5). Final score is USC 31 UW 17. LOCK IT UP

Louisiana-Lafayette @ LSU - (Line is LSU -27.5) - We are going to continue to support LSU at our own peril. This team is so loaded with talent but is just a half-beat away from it all coming together. It will come together one of these weeks and we think Louisiana-Lafayette is the perfect opponent for that to happen against. LSU's QB Jordan Jefferson is a load who can run. You are going to begin hearing his name more often. Just a sophomore, he's going to be a force in the SEC in the next few years. We just think L-L is totally overmatched in this one. LSU will finally look the part of a top 10 team today. Take the Tigers (-27.5) to win 45-17. LOCK IT UP

Utah @ Oregon - (Line is Oregon -4.5) - Utah is another team that we seem to have an irrational love for. They'll underperformed both of the first two weeks in games that they should have dominated against Utah State and San Jose State. Like LSU, we expect that this team is going to put it all together one of these weeks. They are a talented team. Oregon on the other hand appears to have been a bit overrated coming into this year and have lost their start RB to suspension. We think they'll dig deep and salvage the season but that does not necessarily mean that they'll beat Utah by 5 points today. We think this one stays close down to the wire. Take Utah (+4.5) in a nail-biter. Utah 27, Oregon 24. LOCK IT UP

Florida State @ BYU - (Line is BYU -7.5) - People are jumping off the FSU bandwagon at an alarming rate. We think that reaction might be a bit premature. Christian Ponder is a stud at QB and that defense is fast and good. We're not surprised they experienced a bit of a letdown last week after the tough opening loss to Miami but that was last week. We expect that Bobby Bowden has these guys back on track. This is no slight to BYU who is a very, very good football team and has the benefit of the home field advantage today. However, we just have a feeling that the Seminoles are ready to put a nice effort together. We don't expect the win but think that line is too big. Take Florida State (+7.5) in a game that feels like BYU 27, FSU 24. LOCK IT UP

Northwestern @ Syracuse - (Line is Northwestern -2.5) - Talk about no respect at all. The Orange are home dogs against Northwestern. That doesn't seem right. The Orange have already played two much better Big Ten teams and busted the spread in both of those games. Now Northwestern comes to town having only beaten Towson and Eastern Michigan and the Cuse is supposed to be concerned? We think today is the day that Doug "Minga" Marone and Greg "Limp Wristed Lamar" Paulus get their very first win. The Cuse has a decent run game and a highly under appreciated stud at WR (Mike Williams). On top of that, the defense is tough and believes that they can make plays to win games. Our advice is don't come a knocking if the Dome is rocking. They'll be partying down on Marshall Street tonight. Take SU (+2.5) to win 20-17. LOCK IT UP

College Football

We have one game selections to get you. We'll add many games here shortly:

Unpickable Master Lock - CFL:

California at Minnesota - (Line is California -14) - Minnesota is overrated. California is totally nasty. The Bears went east a day early to adjust to the time change which we think is a great idea. Cal will roll. Take the Bears (-14). LOCK IT UP

The Picks Your Bookie Doesn't Want You to Know About

We're featuring another lightning round of college football and MLB today. We will follow up with an in-depth breakdown of many of the weekend's big college football games either this evening or early tomorrow morning. Until then, here you go:

Unpickable Master Locks - College Football:

Boise State @ Fresno State - (Line is Boise State -7.5) - I have it from one of the premier college football authorities around that he will roll all season with Boise State regardless of the spread. His thinking is that the Broncos need to throw up big blowouts to attract any attention at all from the BCS. There won't be any low-key second halves for these guys. That logic certainly makes sense to me. In fact, it makes me want to get a large women in a room and scream BRONCO! We'll start applying this Boise State Theorem this evening. Take the Broncos, give the points. BSU -7.5. LOCK IT UP

Unpickable Master Locks - MLB:

NYY @ Seatlle - AJ Burnett has got to figure this thing out one of these starts. He better be near perfect tonight because he faces King Felix. However, you're getting great value on the Yankees in this game. For that reason we say, "Go Bombers." Take the Yankees (-120) to win 5-3 in Seattle. LOCK IT UP

SF @ LA - Jonathan Sanchez has won us over and the Giants are now a very desperate team. As if they needed more motivation squaring off against the Dodgers. With Captain Swine Flu on the Hill (aka the Honorable H1N1; aka Vicente Padilla) we're surprised the G-men are dogs. We actually like that because will get paid more when they dispatch their southern rivals. Load up on San Fran (+127) to win 6-3. LOCK IT UP

LAA @ Texas - This one pains me since I've been a big Ranger supporter for a while now. However, even a Stevie Wonder can see that these guys are done. The Angels have been doing a lot of traveling (coming in from Beantown), just finished a brawl of a series with the BoSox and don't really fare terribly well in Arlington. Throw all of that out the window. The Halos are hungry to keep winning and would love to hammer the final nail in Texas' coffin. Take the Angels (-120) to beat up Tommy Hunter. Final score is 7-3. LOCK IT UP

Remaining Games to Consider:

Cardinals (-115)
Rockies (-145)
Red Sox (-140)
Tigers (+120)

No Time for Small Talk Just 2 Winning Wagers

We're always fond of getting the points in the Thursday night nationally televised game. Upon inspection of the line, we learn that the Top 25 team in the game is actually getting those points. All the better. People are way too high on Miami who barely beat a Florida State team that barely beat Jacksonville. Miami won't be as amped for this one as they were that FSU game and Georgia Tech has got to feel disrespected. Don't overlooked the Rambling Wreck. Take GT (+4) in a game that they will probably win outright. LOCK IT UP!

70s Style Bush plays its latest "biggest game of the season" tonight against the humps on Hit and Run. I guess the creative team was out to lunch when they chose a name. The Bush needs this win pure and simple. Plus we don't have any late scratches (no John Yannuzzi did not miss another flight today). Full strength + Must Win Game = VICTORY. The Bush gets er done tonight in convincing fashion. 70s Style wins 14-6. LOCK IT UP!

Dice-K Returns with Bang, Posada Delivers Bang to Head of Blue Jay

Baseball is certainly getting exciting. Sure only a handful of teams are playing meaningful baseball but that baseball is filled with emotion. Take for example just a few of the happenings from last evening:

Jorge Posada took exception to being thrown behind (come on Jorge, you can't have it both ways - the Yanks did plunk two Blue Jays) and initiated an ugly bench clearing brawl vs. Toronto. These brawls are particularly chaotic this time of year since the roster have expanded well beyond the 24 player limit that rules the majority of the season. That's more opportunity for guys who aren't the most experienced big leaguers to be throwing wild haymakers, punching managers and pulling on catchers' equipment. By the way, the Yanks lost 10-4.

Dice-K returned from an exile that saw his fitness regime overhauled and his mouth overstuffed with criticism for his employer to throw six stellar innings. This has got to be a huge boost to the Red Sox and their confidence heading into the playoffs. Now they don't have to rely on Paul Byrd anymore.

Barry Zito turned back the clock to 2002 and threw another high-pressure gem against the Rockies. Not that we should be surprised as Zito simply owns Colorado. The Giants have clawed their way back from the brink and now sit just 2.5 games behind the Rocks for the wild card. Tonight's final game of their series looms very, very large for both teams. De La Rosa and Cain square off. Should be neat.

Now that is high drama all the way around, from Coast to Coast. Tonight promises to deliver more of the same and here is how it will play out:

Unpickable Master Locks:

Milwaukee @ Chicago - We typically don't like Brandon Looper but have a feeling about this one and the moneyline is appealing. Rich Harden is a bit of a mess at home and throws way too many pitches which brings the Cubs bullpen into play (maybe we'll see former closer Kevin Gregg in the 5th tonight). The Brewers have some boppers who are now playing to pad stats (Braun and Fielder). We're taking the Brewers as Looper keeps the ball on the ground and in the park; Harden does not. Take Milwaukee (+150) to win 7-4. LOCK IT UP

Oakland @ Texas -What an absolutely fucking meltdown by the Rangers. They strung together 22 scoreless innings - many against the awful A's - in the heart of a playoff race. Shame on those Lone Star State Ladies. However, there is absolutely no way that they will get swept at home by the Athletic Supporters. It just ain't happening. Load up on Texas (-160) to win 6-3. LOCK IT UP

Chicago @ Seattle - Our man, Dr. Three Name, is pitching tonight for the M's. That makes this an easy pick. Ryan Roland-Smith has easy gas from the left side and we think that makes him a factor in the M's rotation for years to come. This kid is being overlooked in the Pacific Northwest. You heard it here. He's gonna be a 12-15 game winner every year. The White Sox have had a totally schizophrenic season. Up and down. Quit and battle. Blah, blah, blah. They just don't care anymore and I think Ozzie has started drinking on the bench. Ichiro is in a dog fight with Fat Albert for the highest batting average of the decade so you know he's here to play. Ride the M's at home (-110) as they win 4-3. LOCK IT UP

Colorado @ SF - We've bought into the magic hook, line and sinker. They keep teasing us with their mini-collapses and then battle back from the cliff. Tonight they look to complete their second consecutive three-game home sweep of Colorado and they have the arm of Matt Cain to make it happen. We like it. The offense has even been showing a bit of pep at just the perfect time. After tonight, only 1.5 games will separate these two. It will be a great ending to the season. Take the Giants (-122) to win a classic 5-4. LOCK IT UP

Other Games to Consider:

LA Angels of Anaheim (-124) - Paul Byrd's farewell start for the BoSox
NY Yankees (-210) - Don't make these guys angry, not with Chad Gaudin on the hill
Royals (+155) - Just because I want to cheer for Lenny Dinardo.

Monday Night Madness with a Bit of MLB Sprinkled In

What a wild Monday night of football. Two big favorites barely squeaking out W's while not coming close to covering large, potentially unjustified, point spreads. A predictable Sunday of football was quickly bitch-slapped by an upside-down Monday. That is what week 1 of the season is for. Proven some things you thought were true and obliterating other things you knew were true. We head into week 2 a bit wiser but still confident considering we did hit 11 of 15 games against the spread. However, we're getting a bit ahead of ourselves. It is only Tuesday and football is still multiple days away. What isn't days away is good ole MLB. We're trying to finish this season strong so we have unstoppable momentum rolling into the post-season. The following games should help get us started.

Unpickable Master Locks:

NY Pets @ Atlanta - Tommy-Boy Hanson got absolutely hosed his last start when he pitched 8-innings of 1-hit ball only to be replaced in the ninth by the Braves closer who will not be named. Bobby Cox really blew that one as the unnamed closer game up hit after hit after hit until the Astros were walking off the field with a 2-1 victory. We don't think the Bravos will have the same issue of run support for Hanson tonight against Pat Misch. Hanson will quiet the Pets' somewhat rejuvenated bats - Carlos Beltran is back and hitting. Take the Braves minus 1.5 runs (-120) to win 7-2. LOCK IT UP

Cleveland @ Minnesota - The Fausto Carmona experiment continues. He did look like he had a few things figured out there for a minute or two. Then came his last start against the Rangers when he didn't see the second inning. His efforts so far this year against Minnesota have not been much better. Scott Baker takes the ball for the Twinkies and he's been dominant against the Tribe (4-0, 0.93). Justin Morneau is on the shelf for the rest of the year but Joe Mauer still plays in the Twin Citites. That will be enough to lead Minny to victory. Take the Twins minus 1.5 runs (-105) to win 6-1. LOCK IT UP

Houston @ Cincinnati - Wandy Rodriguez deserved to win that game last night. Alas, he did not. The Stros will not win a second game in a row against the Reds. Especially with Roy Oswalt on the hill. Are you ready for Roy Munson's career numbers against the Reds? Would you believe that he is 23-1, 2.46 in his career against Cincy. That is not a misprint. 23-1! Holy Toldeo. We like his chances of improving upon that number. We love Houston in this one. Take the Stros minus 1.5 runs (EVEN) to win 6-2. LOCK IT UP

Other Games to Consider:

Giants (+124) - Zito owns the Rocks
DBacks (-138) - Harren will be dealing
Blue Jays (-127) - It's amazing this line is not bigger
Rangers (-182) - Won't lose to the Athletic Supporters twice in a row

Monday MLB Action

We have opening weekend in the NFL behind us (we were 11-2 yesterday, thank you very much) and it is time to return our laser-like focus to the world of baseball. Playoff races are heating up for a few select teams and the rest are just playing out the string. That makes things particularly interesting from a betting perspective. Have no fear, there are still winners out there to be had. So here we go.

Unpickable Master Locks:

Houston @ Cincinnati - Magic Wandy Rodriguez is having quite a nice year. It has taken us nearly the entire season to believe that he is for real. He is. And the Reds offense is not. Wandy should have no trouble notching win #14 tonight. Take the Stros (-132) to win 5-2. LOCK IT UP

Oakland @ Texas - The Locks has supported the Rangers for quite some time now and it wouldn't feel right to abandon them now. They get the chance to tee off on Brett Tomko tonight in the muggy Texas heat. 16-game winner Scott Feldman tries to bring some of his road magic home to Arlington. The Athletic Supporters stink. Take the Rangers (-220) to win 6-4. LOCK IT UP

Colorado @ San Francisco - Lincecum knows how badly the Giants need this game. He's money at home and we'll put our coin behind him in a big spot any day. The Rockies are on another magical run but they didn't have any luck the last time they came to the Bay Area. Timmy boy will make sure that streak continues tonight. Take SF (-186) to win 4-2. LOCK IT UP

Remaining Games to Consider:

Cardinals (-114)
Padres (-155)
Blue Jays (+235)
Orioles (+123)

Christmas Comes Early - NFL Opening Sunday

We're a bit late to the game seeing as we didn't profile the Steelers/Titans game on Thursday night but that does not mean the Locks is not incredibly fired up for tomorrow's real NFL opening day. 13 total games to wet your whistle. That's a lot to love whether you're a fantasy freak, a degenerate gambler, a nerd or some combination of all three. The Locks will endeavor to profile/project every NFL game this season (minus this past Thursday nighter). After profiling all the games, the Locks will also propose some nice exotic bets (parlays, teasers, etc) that might be enticing for you those of you who like to swing for the fences with your wagers. Our goal for the '09 season is to hit 63% of the NFL games. Let's see what we can do.

Sunday Early Games:

Miami @ Atlanta - Line is Falcons -4 - We're not too sure what to make of either of these teams. Miami was certainly headed in the right direction last season under the stewardship of Bill Parcells. However, some of their success needs to be attributed to the relative ease of their schedule. The Falcons were one of the league's nicest surprises last season making the most of the additions of Matt Ryan and Michael Turner. Now the question becomes what does this year look like for these teams? We can quite honestly see any number of things happening to these two but we think mediocrity is the most likely destination for both. So where does that leave us in Week 1. Matt Ryan vs. Chad Pennington. Michael Turner vs. Ronnie Brown. Roddy White vs. Ted Ginn Jr. Atlanta clearly dominates these high profile positional match ups. Add the modest benefit of playing at home and this certainly feels like an Atlanta win. However, we think the Dolphins will keep this one pretty close throughout. Pennington will flash his typical game management skills and the Parcells influence will continue to be felt on the defensive side of the ball. We've just talked ourselves into taking the points. The correct wager is Miami +4. LOCK IT UP

Kansas City @ Baltimore - Line is Ravens -13 - As of this writing, Matt Cassel remains a question mark for playing. He'd be well advised to take another week to get healthy and not have to stare into Ray Lewis' eyes all afternoon. We have nothing but feelings of scorn when it comes to the Chiefs. Larry Johnson is done (look to Jamaal Charles to be a major force by week 8) and Tony Gonzalez doesn't live there anymore. It's way too early for the Patriots influence to have any measurable impact. Baltimore on the other hand is a team that we can get behind. Sure they've lost some high profile names from the defense but they still have Ray and Ed and that is pretty darn good. Look to Joe Flacco to continue to progress in season two. He's going to be a good one. The Locks is also a huge fan of former Scarlet Lady, Ray Rice. He's going to be fun to watch. This game doesn't feel close at all which is good because 13 is a lot of points to lay in Week 1. It doesn't matter. Baltimore will cover. For those with weak hearts, use the Ravens in some teasers and trim that line down. Take Baltimore -13. LOCK IT UP

Philadelphia @ Carolina - Line is Eagles -2.5 - This is a game that we really like from a gambler's perspective. Philly is a team that we see as a strong favorite to be playing the Super Bowl. McNabb is primed for a big year and the death of Brian Westbrook has been wildly exaggerated. On the other side of the ball, the Panthers D looks suspect and that might be an insult to all you suspects out there. DeAngelo won't find a whole lot of running room in this one. Carolina will need to lean on Jake Delhomme for its offense and we all know how that usually turns out (I just vomited remembering that I drafted Steve Smith in my fantasy league). This one here is what you call easy money. Take the Eagles -2.5. LOCK IT UP

Denver @ Cincinnati - Line is Bengals -5 - Here is the first game of the year to make me regret stating that I would profile all of the season's games. Besides mental case wide receivers, is there really anything interesting to write about either of these teams? Also, when was the last time that the Bengals were a 5 point favorite. That seems a bit aggressive, no? I know there is a lot of love for the Bungals since they became TV stars but come on. However, we have Denver pegged as one of the 5 worst teams in the NFL this season. Choices, choices. As bad as we think Denver is, our rule is to typically take the points when we see a battle of stinkers. We also can't kick off the season looking at a TV during the 4th quarter of this game and wondering what in the hell we were thinking backing Cincy. Take the Broncos +5 in a game I recommend against watching. LOCK IT UP

Minnesota @ Cleveland - Line is Vikings -4 - This is a line that really struck us as odd. Particularly with all of the Favre-mania going on. We wouldn't have been surprised to see this as a -6 or -7 point spread, especially since home field advantage doesn't seem to matter that much anymore (just ask ESPN's Sports Guy). We don't buy Favre one bit but we certainly do buy AP and the Vikings defense. I'm not sure how the Browns are going to score points. All-Day will run wild here and the Vikings will not let Brad Childress cost them this game. Take the Vikings -4. LOCK IT UP

New York Jets @ Houston - Line is Texans -4 - This line has been slowly creeping down all week. We saw it at -5.5 just three days ago. So clearly there is love for the Jets out there. Where not sure why. We definitely think they'll be better under Rex Ryan and with their defensive imports but they are still the Mets of the NFL - we'll just call them the Pets. (Editor's Note: Matt Sanchez is the Locks' backup fantasy QB so we may very well become big bandwagon Pets fans at some point). We're also not buying the crazy Texans hype going into this season. People are talking up this team like mad. I think they're solid but making the playoffs would be a nice achievement for this group. This is another tough call so we'll take the points and hope for the best. Jets +4. LOCK IT UP

Jaguars @ Indianapolis - Line is Colts -6.5 - The Colts always get too much respect from Vegas. The funny thing is they don't earn it because it seems like they never cover. We're sticking with that theme in this one. The Colts will do enough to win but not enough to win by a TD. Look for this to be a grind-it-out, time of possession type of game that Peyton usually orchestrates. The pick here is Jags +6.5. LOCK IT UP

Detroit @ New Orleans - Line is Saints -13.5 - Jeez, another huge spread for a week 1 game. Don't worry, we'd take the Saints in this one even if the line was -20. This will not be close. The Lions can't stop anyone and Drew Brees and boys cannot be stopped. The Lions will do nothing offensively. Remember, this team has not won a game since 2007. Matt Stafford ain't changing that tomorrow. Take the Saints -13.5. LOCK IT UP

Dallas @ Tampa Bay - Line is Cowboys -5 - This feels like another line that is not necessarily correct. The Cowboys may have a number of questions marks (Roy Williams, Marion Barber, etc.) but the Bucs are downright putrid. They may lose 13 games this season. They are starting Bill Cosby at QB and some of their defenders are in their 50s. This is not going to end well for TB. It's not going to start well either. The Cowboys get to open their new mega stadium with a 1-0 record. Take the Boys -5. LOCK IT UP


Sunday Afternoon Games:

San Francisco @ Arizona - Line is Cardinals -6 - I can't get over how many dogs I am taking this week. Chalk up another one. The Cardinals are in for a long year. They caught lightning in a bottle last year and it was a great story. However, this is a new year and the odds of Kurt Warner staying among the living for another four months are not good. On the other end of the spectrum are the upstart Niners who are an entirely different team with Mike Singletary at the helm. Frank Gore and Glen Coffee are going to prove to be the league's next dynamic RB duo and Shaun Hill will do enough not to lose SF games. We think this all starts tomorrow in a game we like the 49ers to win outright. However, we'll happily just take the points. The pick is the Niners +6. LOCK IT UP

Washington @ NY Giants - Line is Giants -7 - Back up the truck for another dog and this one is tough based on our Giant fanaticism. However, with nobody to catch the ball and the Skins sporting an improved defensive front, we can't imagine this being a game the G-Man win by a TD. It feels much more like a FG win for Big Blue. The Skins will grind up some yardage and clock on the backs of Portis and Betts and their D will play admirably. At the end of the day it won't be enough to get them a win but it will help them bust the spread. Take the Redskins +7. LOCK IT UP

St. Louis @ Seattle - Line is Seahawks -7.5 - We're expecting big things from the Seahawks this year. They play in a horrific division and finally have a relatively healthy Matt Hasselback throwing the ball. The Housh significantly upgrades their receiving corp and Seattle remains one of the truly powerful home field advantages in the league. We think the Rams are slowly heading in the right direction but they are challenged in so many ways at the moment. They'll be lucky to keep this one close in the second half. We like the Seahawks -7.5 to cover. LOCK IT UP

Sunday Evening Game:

Chicago @ Green Bay - Line is Packers -4.5 -Here is another line that has been moving during the week - sliding to show support for the Packers. We're going to have to disagree with the general public on this one. While the Pack looks like their back and just in time to shove it up Brett Farve's ass, the Bears also look to be incredibly improved. We love Matt Forte and this is a big-time rivalry game in prime time. No way this is decided by more than a FG. This should be a really fun game to watch. Our pick is the Bears +4.5. LOCK IT UP

Monday Night Games:

Buffalo @ New England - Line is Patriots -11 - Note to league: the Patriots offense is back and looking to punish people. The Bills will get a first-hand demonstration of this on Monday night. It certainly doesn't help that Marshawn Lynch is suspended and TO is TO. It will be interesting to see what the NE defense can do this year but that offense is going to be silly good. This feels like another one-sided game. Take the Patriots -11. LOCK IT UP

San Diego @ Oakland - Line is Chargers -9.5 - Nice to cap off week 1 with another blowout. The Raiders are such a mess that players need several days to cope emotionally when they get traded to Oakland. That is not a joke. Poor Richard Seymour. Can you blame him? The Chargers love to throttle the Raiders and they'll do it again. LT reminds people that he is not done and Philip Rivers continues to grow into one of the leagues best QBs. This one is easy. Take the Chargers -9.5. LOCK IT UP

College Football - Week 2 - Introducing the 3-Team, 10-Point Teaser

Following an educational week 1 in college football, the Locks is ready to get down to business and start stockpiling victories. There are a number of intriguing games this week, and many more duds - all of which represent money making opportunities. We're going to introduce our all-time favorite type of bet this week - the 3-team, 10-point tease.

Unpickable Master Locks 3-Team, 10-Point Tease:

For those unaware, this bet allows you to take three separate games, move the point spread by 10 points in either direction in each game and bet that all three games parlay style. If you lose any of the games with the adjusted point spread, you lose the entire bet. The payout on this bet is 12-10 (you bet $12 to win $10). The Locks typically likes to throw down $120 to $100 on these bets. Here is this week's special:

Florida vs. Troy (original line = Florida -36.5; move line to Florida -26.5) - The Gators will continue to roll over vastly inferior opponents until the schedule stiffens a bit. After moving this line, Florida only needs to win by 4 TDs. While that sounds like a lot, it isn't for this offense. Troy will prove pitiful on Saturday. LOCK IT UP

Texas @ Wyoming (original line = Texas -33.5; move line to Texas -23.5) - This is certainly an interesting early season road trip for the Longhorns. Wyoming isn't right around the corner. That said, the men of Wyoming should stick to ranching and leave the football to Texans. That is a lesson that will be abundantly clear on Saturday. Similar to Florida, Texas will have no troubles as they wait for a real opponent to surface on the schedule. LOCK IT UP

Oklahoma St. vs. Houston (original line = Oklahoma St. - 15.5; move line to Oklahoma St. -5.5) - Houston is starting to get a bit of buzz in this game based on the ridiculous offensive numbers this team puts up against mediocre and/or poor opposition. Oklahoma St. and its defense does not fit into either of those groups. The Locks was very impressed with the beating that the Cowboys handed Georgia on Saturday. This is going to be a team to watch out for all season long. Saturday will be another impressive defensive display. LOCK IT UP

Unpickable Master Locks - Individual Games:

USC @ Ohio State (line = USC -7) - The Trojans look like they have not skipped a beat shifting from Matt Sanchez to Matt Barkley. I think the struggles of Ohio State vs. Navy are overblown. Navy is a very good team that always presents headaches for even the best opponents. That said, this game is about how good USC is, not how bad OSU played against Navy. We expect the Trojans to have way too much fire power for Ohio State to handle. They'll run the ball at will and that will set up Barkley to make enough plays with his arm. Terrell Prior will get his yards on the ground but the USC defense will likely turn those Ohio State drives into field goals instead of TDs. We love USC (-7) in this game. LOCK IT UP

Boston College vs. Kent State (line = BC -21) - The Golden Eagles are always an underrated football team and they are especially tough in Chestnut Hill. We don't know anything about Kent State and frankly, we don't want or need to. BC will roll in this one and it will be a blowout from the opening kickoff. Get on board. BC (-21) covers with ease. LOCK IT UP

South Carolina @ Georgia (line = South Carolina +7) - Here's an upset special for our loyal followers. There are a number of things that we like about this game from South Carolina's perspective. (1) They've had more time to prepare for the game since they played last Thursday as opposed to Georgia playing at Oklahoma St on Saturday and then having to travel back home. (2) Georgia's QB is trying to play through a shoulder injury which he described as follows, "It's nerve problems caused by a muscle that protects my rotator cuff. One of the muscles that protects the rotator cuff has wasted away and that puts pressure on the rotator cuff." I'm no doctor but a muscle in the should that has wasted away? Can that be good for a QB? (3) Neither of these offenses has shown the ability to score much so this looks to be a fairly low scoring affair which typically benefits the underdog. For all those reasons, and many others, the Locks says that South Carolina not only covers the spread but wins this game outright. However, our advice is take SC (+7). LOCK IT UP

Remaining Games to Consider:

Michigan vs. Notre Dame (line = Michigan +3) - These games are always close. ND is getting to much credit for shredding a bad Nevada team. Take UM and the points.

East Carolina @ West Virginia (line = East Carolina +6.5) - The Mountaineers are still trying to figure out who they are without Pat White at QB. East Carolina is always a scrappy football team. We think ECU actually wins this one though we advise you simply take them and the points.

Utah @ San Jose State (line = Utah -13.5) - This is a heck of a start to a season for SJ State. First USC and now Utah. We don't think the result is much different from last week. SJ State just can't hang with top 25 squads. Utah will roll in this game. Take them to cover.

Hump Day Money Train

Unpickable Master Locks:

St. Louis @ Milwaukee - I have been saying that I believe the Cardinals will be playing in the World Series for several weeks now. However, every time I watch them play, I'm unimpressed by their offense. I'm just not sure what I think about this team anymore. Sure, they find ways to win but shouldn't good teams be winning more convincingly? We'll give them another chance today. With Adam Wainright on the hill, they won't need a ton of offense to cover the spread. Take the Cards minus 1.5 runs (-120) to win 6-3. LOCK IT UP

Philadelphia @ Washington - Look for a major bounce back start tonight from Cliff Lee. He'll be back to his normal self. The Phils will get to Garrett Mock early and often and then abuse the Nattys pen. This one will not be close. Take the Phillies minus 1.5 runs (-125) to win 8-2. LOCK IT UP

Atlanta @ Houston - We like the Bravos as a dog in this game. Magic Wandy has had a very nice year but has not been good this year or in his career vs. the Braves. A number of Atlanta hitters like to face Wandy. On the other hand, we continue to be very impressed by Tommy Hanson. Look to the Braves to win a close, low-scoring affair here. Take Atlanta (+108) to win 4-3. LOCK IT

Remaining Games to Consider:

Rangers (-144)
Blue Jays (-200)
Tigers (-200)
Dodgers (+108)
Padres (+160)

A Look Back at College Football Opening Weekend - Plus Some MLB

Fortunately, the opening weekend of college football has come to an end. The Locks is always torn going into the opening weekend of either the CFL or NFL season. First, we're overcome with excitement by the prospect of once again gambling on football. On the other hand, we're reluctant to put money down before seeing any of these teams perform at least once. We once again come away from opening weekend thinking it should be used as a research tool as opposed to fertile ground for making money. Yet, we're gamblers at heart, so we'll always have the action rolling on opening weekend. So what did we learn this weekend:

Florida and Texas deserve to be 1 and 2 in the country but we didn't learn anything about them from their week 1 blowouts of two cupcakes

Cal and Oklahoma State are very, very good football teams

Miami is much further along in rebuilding a powerhouse than we thought

East Coast to West Coast trips never work out well for the traveling team (ask Maryland, as well as those who thought LSU would cover at Washington)

Greg Paulus may be an enormous upgrade at QB for the Cuse in terms of game management but his arm is one of the worst we've seen at a major D-1 school in a long time

USC is going to be fine with a freshman QB

Rutgers still deserves the name: "The Scarlet Ladies"

It will be a very frustrating year in Blacksburg unless VT can get some sort of production from its offense

Alabama has the best defense in the country, and it isn't very close

We need to see Notre Dame beat a real team before we anoint them as being back, though that was a nice start vs. Nevada

Ohio State does not look prepared for next week's visit from USC

Poor, poor Sam Bradford. That injury sucks much more for him personally then it does for the Oklahoma team

We're looking forward to week 2.

Unpickable Master Locks - MLB:

Detroit @ Kansas City - What a day for baseball fans. We didn't think we'd get another opportunity to bet against a team starting Bruce Chen in 2009. Lo and behold, Chen takes the hill tonight against the Tigers. Rick Porcello faces Chen and that doesn't seem fair. The Tigers like to beat up on lefties and are looking to gain momentum heading into the playoffs. Look to Miggy Cabrera and Placido Polanco to do most the damage against Chen and Porcello to pitch deep into the game. We love Detroit here. Take the Tigers (-165) to win 6-3. LOCK IT UP

St. Louis @ Milwaukee - Ride the Cards. Ride them all the way to the bank. Smoltz nearly pitched an excellent game against the Eww Crew five days ago. We think he learned enough to turn that excellent game in tonight. He'll need to do so since Manny Parra has been rather successful against St. Louis this year. However, he should regress back to his mean as a starter against this team. He'll slip enough to give this game to the Cards. Take St. Louis (-131) to win 5-3. LOCK IT UP

Texas @ Cleveland - Game 1 - This is a make up of yesterday's postponed game. We broke it down in yesterday's post and nothing has changed from our perspective. Take the Rangers (-131) to win 7-5. LOCK IT UP

Remaining Games to Consider:

Yankees (-150)
Marlins (-110)
Mariners (EVEN)
Padres +1.5 runs (EVEN)

A Day to Honor Labor By Getting Paid for Doing Nothing

That's right. Today is one of the Locks' all-time favorite days of the year: Labor Day. I love to celebrate my labor. My labor is worthy of celebration. So let us celebrate together. One day after the Locks, along with apprentice T-Roy Neves, all but locked up the East Bay Fantasy Football title with a monster draft, we're here to offer winners spanning both the MLB and college football.

Unpickable Master Locks - MLB:

St. Louis @ Milwaukee - Things didn't work out so well for Dave Bush his last start against the Cards. Nothing has changed in five days that will alter the outcome of his effort today. This is compounded by the fact that he faces off against Chris Carpenter. The Cards have served as an ATM machine for the Locks this year and we're going to continue with the withdrawals. Take St. Louis, minus 1.5 runs (-125), to trounce the Eww Crew, 8-3. LOCK IT UP

Boston @ Chicago - This is a straight percentage play. At some point, Josh Beckett is going to get back on track. It's now September and these games are critical. That is typically when he does his best work. Nearly everyone in the BoSox lineup has had great success facing Mark Buehrle. It's been a nice week for the ChiSox but we're going with Boston in this one. Take the Sox, the Red ones (-134), to win 6-4. LOCK IT UP

Texas @ Cleveland - The Rangers are reeling a bit after a tough trip to Baltimore. They are without both Michael Young and Josh Hamilton which is not good in the midst of a playoff push. However, they still do have some tremendous hitters in that lineup, namely Mr. Ian Kinsler, and they are a gritty bunch. They give the ball to arguably their most dependable starter this season, Tommy Hunter. Cleveland counters with Carlos Carrasco who came over in the Cliff Lee deal and got roughed up in his debut. Things won't get any easier for him today. We like the Rangers to get a badly needed W in Cleveland. Take Texas (-135) to win 7-5. LOCK IT UP

Other Games to Consider - MLB:

Yankees - Game 1 (-200)
Astros (+120)
Rockies (-270)
Dodgers (-110)
Padres (+142)
Yankees - Game 2 (-225)
Blue Jays (-115)

Unpickable Master Locks - College Football:

Cincinnati @ Rutgers - My good pal and college football collaborator Mark "Peking Boy" Borton once made the bold statement that if Rutgers could keep all the high school football talent in state, they would win the national championship. That might sound absurd to many folks (including me) but one thing you can't argue is the Greg Schiano has kept more of the high school talent in state and Rutgers has gotten considerably better. This is a tough early season test for both teams and might be the best Big East game of the entire season, which isn't saying much. Rutgers always kicks it up a notch at home and for nationally televised games. We like Cincy's team but not enough against a game Rutgers squad. Take the Scarlet Ladies (-4.5) to win and cover, 34-27. LOCK IT UP

Miami @ Florida St. - Another nice Labor Day match up for us to end the long weekend with. Florida State comes in with thoughts of winning an ACC crown and playing in a very meaningful bowl game. Miami would like nothing more than spoiling that for in-state rival FSU and jump starting what they hope to be another nice year in their quest to return to national relevance. FSU QB Christian Ponder doesn't have any more excuses. He's taken enough snaps in his career now to know what it takes to be a solid QB. We think he has it figured out. Combined that with what view as key advantages as the other offensive skill positions, and we think FSU has the goods to beat Miami somewhat convincingly. The Canes do have some exciting young talent so this won't be a cake walk. That said, we like the Seminoles (-6) to win at home 38-24. LOCK IT UP

Don't Forget the MLB

Here are a few games for you baseball lovers on a big college football Saturday.

Unpickable Master Locks:

SF @ Milwaukee - The Giants as a dog against the Brew Crew with Cain on the hill? That seems a bit peculiar to me. I like Yovani Gallardo as much as the next guy but he melts down every start. The Giants need every game the rest of the way and yesterday's comeback was pure grit. Grit is something these Brewers haven't had since last year. Take Cain and the Giants (+114) to win 4-2. LOCK IT UP

Florida @ Washington - We stay on the Josh Johnson bandwagon despite his recent hiccups. Don't forget, the Nats are the Nats after all. Johnson should mow them down. Take the Fish (-178) to win 7-3. LOCK IT UP

Rangers @ Baltimore - Texas is too good to lose these types of games during a playoff push in September. That is it. Baltimore will be a force, in 2010. Take the Rangers (-135) to win behind a quality start from Kevin Millwood. Final score will be 6-4. LOCK IT UP

Other Games to Consider:

Seattle (+143)
Boston (+105)
St. Louis (-125)

College Kick-Off

College football is going to take the Locks to the promised land. We can feel it. A number of games on the season's first Saturday jump out at us. Some are UMLs and other are just regular locks. Take your pick.

Unpickable Master Locks:

Alabama @ Virginia Tech - The game of the day, unless you like Georgia @ Oklahoma State more. We don't. This is the game to watch. VT is always a tough, tough team. Especially at home. This should be a nice defensive battle as both teams search for an offensive identity. We'll always take the points in a battle between two good defensive teams, particularly when there is a home dog. We'll go with Virginia Tech (+7) to cover the spread but lose 17-14. LOCK IT UP

LSU @ Washington - This is a long trip to make for LSU to open the season. That's the bad news. The good news is that UW has not won a game since 2007. The Tigers are looking to put last season behind them and compile a record that is consistent with their talent level. From a talent standpoint, this one is not even close. The score will not be either. We'll take LSU (-18) to cover this one fairly easily. Look for a final score in the range of 45-13. LOCK IT UP

Rice @ UAB - Get ready to read the name Rice over and over again this year. The Locks love this team. They are returning a senior QB who threw 44 TDs against 7 interceptions last season and more than 4,000 yards. We love the fact that not only can we have Rice tomorrow but we can also have points. That's right. The Rice Owls are underdogs at UAB and that is just fine with us. Take Rice (+6) in a game that we expect them to win outright. Final score 38-35. LOCK IT UP

Other Games to Consider:

Navy (+22) @ Ohio State
Akron (+29.5) @ Penn State
Oklahoma State (-5.5) vs. Georgia
Maryland (+21) @ California
USC (-34) vs. San Jose State
Syracuse (+7) vs. Minnesota

Football Friday Freakout

Sorry for the late entry today. We've been combing through countless MLB and CFL games identify only the strongest locks around. We'll be back later on with a slate of Saturday CFL games but for now we're focusing the Friday tilts.

CFL - Unpickable Master Locks:

Tulsa @ Tulane - We're sticking with our theme of favorites covering big lines during this opening weekend of the season. It didn't work with Utah but that will prove to be an exception this weekend. In tonight's game, Tulsa is a far superior team with a crackerjack offense that will score early and often. We love Tulsa here. However, just to check our CFL compass, we placed a call into college football guru, Marcus Borton I. Sir Borton confirmed our suspicions in the fewest words possible ("Tulsa to cover"). That is good enough for us. Take Tulsa -14 points but buy it down to -13.5 (-120). Tulsa will win 42-24. LOCK IT UP

MLB - Unpickable Master Locks:

Arizona @ Colorado - This one is all about Dan Harren and his domination of the Colorado Rockies. Harren is 2-1, 0.90 with 24 Ks in 2o innings against the Rocks this season. Those are pretty impressive numbers. Can Harren do it again tonight? No doubt. The question will be if whether the DBacks can score enough to support him. Arizona has been putting up runs recently so the Locks feels good about this one. Take the DBacks (-107) to win 5-2. LOCK IT UP

St. Louis @ Pittsburgh - Adam Wainright vs. Kevin Hart. We'll take the Cardinals (-250) to win easily. Final score is 6-2. LOCK IT UP

Seattle @ Oakland - The Locks is quickly becoming major fans of Dr. 3 Names, Ryan Rowland-Smith. This kid is a hard throwing lefty that has been pitching better and better throughout the season. The Athletic Supporters are terrible. So terrible that they are starting a hump named Clayton Mortensen tonight in the place of Vin Mazzaro. These names are absurd and so are the A's. The M's should win this one in a cake walk. Take Seattle (-112) to win 7-4. LOCK IT UP

MLB Remaining Games:

Giants (-109)
Rangers (-137)
Rays (-120)

You Didn't Think I Forgot About The Bush, Did You?

Huge game for 70s Style tonight. After last week's last inning defeat the team is playing for its playoff lives against the first place Bada Bing Club. These douche bags won the title in the other D League last season so this is somewhat of a battle of super heros. The Bush is back to full strength tonight so my guess is we are the Bada Bing's kryptonite.

We're going short on words tonight. Everyone on the Bush needs to contribute for a victory so there is no sense in singling anyone out. Big hits, tight D and solid pitching. That is what it is going to take for the upset. Bush gets er done. Take 70s Style (+145) to win 9-8. LOCK IT UP

Let's Play Some Football

Finally. That is the only word that can sum up the Locks emotions this afternoon. We love baseball. Absolutely love America's Pastime. However, having to pick nothing but baseball games for three months has been grating on us. Now we can combine a handful of daily baseball picks with football selections from both the pro and college ranks. And to get us started, we have two games tonight that we absolutely love. No reason not to get the football season started with two UMLs.

College Football Unpickable Master Locks:

Utah State @ Utah - Nothing like a nice big blowout to start the season off right. The talent discrepancy between these two teams is enormous. The Utes return seven of 11 starters on defense from last year's 13-0 team. They are working a new QB into the lineup but that is what these cupcake games are for. Utah has beaten Utah State 11 straight times by an average of 24.6 points. Tonight should be more of the same. Look to the Utes D to set the tone and the offense to follow with multiple touchdown drives. We're somewhat surprised this line is not bigger. We'll take Utah -21 but buy it down to 20.5 points. The Utes better their state mates, 45-17. LOCK IT UP

Oregon @ Boise State - Here's the game the Locks is really excited about. In previous years, we'd look at this match, discount Boise State and go with the representative from the power conference. Then Mark Borton got our ear about BSU and he hasn't stopped talking. At this point, it's hard to argue with either Borty or the results. Boise State is a very good team and nearly unbeatable at home. They are playing their biggest game of the season right out of the shoot and on national television. Boise State returns six starters on offense and six starters to a defense that was third in the country in scoring defense last year. Oregon will be no pushover as they sport one of the country's most dynamic offenses. However, the blue turf at Bronco Stadium is magical and BSU will ride that to a big time victory. Take BSU -3 but buy that down to 2.5 points. Final score will be 34-31. LOCK IT UP

MLB Unpickable Master Locks:

Atlanta @ Florida - Ride the arm of young gun Tommy Hanson as he keeps the Braves flickering playoff hopes alive. The Bravos seem like the better, more focused, more clutch team here. The Fish can't even get along. Ricky Nolasco is a worthy adversary for Hanson but won't be good enough. Take Hotlanta (-126) to win, 4-3. LOCK IT UP

NYY @ Toronto - Come on? You've got to keep riding these guys until they tap out of this ridiculous run. Chad Gaudin or not, the Yankees are the pick to keep the W's a'rolling. Take NYY (-135) to win 6-4. LOCK IT UP

Blue Turf Serves as Center Stage for CFL Kickoff

The day is finally here. College football kicks off the season with a slew of games today and tonight. While we are incredibly excited about this and have at least to Unpickable Master Locks for CFL games tonight, we need to get some day game MLB house cleaning out of the way. We'll be back with a football-focused post this afternoon (it will also include night MLB games). However, we have two MLB UMLs in early baseball action:

Unpickable Master Locks:

Milwaukee @ St. Louis - It goes without saying these days; if the Cards are playing, the Locks is loving them. John Smoltz stars in act two of his NL reclamation project today against a Milwaukee team that probably wants a do-over for the entire 2009 season. Manny Parra is the next in line to get paddy-whacked by the Cards. Hopefully he was not watching Dave Bush's effort last night. Take the Cards (-177) to win 6-4. LOCK IT UP

NYM @ Colorado - Things don't get any better for the Pets today as they march out Pat Misch (who?) to face Jason Marquis. I'm sure the Pets fancy themselves playoff spoilers but there isn't much that lineup can spoil beyond the sanity of their fans. The Rocks are dialed in to a major playoff race and can't afford a slip up against a far inferior team. Take Colorado (-250) to win 7-3. LOCK IT UP

Back with more later.....

Big Favorites Get Us Back on Track

Today we get back on track by backing a number of very big favorites. These match ups are simply too good to pass up. We're just on the prowl for winners at this point so will happily take the disadvantageous money lines.

Unpickable Master Locks:

NYY @ Baltimore - The offense keeps on rolling. Hard not to love the Yanks right now. Big CC continues his late season push for Cy Young consideration. Take the Yankees to win (-250). Final score is 8-3. LOCK IT UP

Milwaukee @ St. Louis - Chris Carpenter to the rescue. We don't expect this game to prove too challenging for the Cards with one of their two aces on the hill. It also helps that they get to tee off on the woeful Milwaukee pitching staff. Take the Red Birds (-275) to win 6-1. LOCK IT UP

NYM @ Colorado - The Rockies also get to hand the ball to their ace tonight, Umbaldo Jiminez. The Rockies get the Pets while their Wild Card challenger draws the Phils. Who do you think has the advantage. Don't look to the Rockies to blow this opportunity to get a leg up in the WC race. The Pets are starting Tim Redding who has been surprisingly adequate recently. This game will be somewhat close but the Rocks (-285) will prevail, 5-3. LOCK IT UP

Toronto @ Texas - The Blue Jays earned the distinction of getting swept in a double header last evening by the same score in both games (5-2). This team has mailed it in. At the same time, Texas is still clawing for the Wild Card. Tommy Hunter goes tonight and he has been as steady as it gets for the Rangers starters this year. We really like the Texas offense and think they find a way to pull this one out as well. Take the Rangers (-182) to win in the Texas heat, 6-3. LOCK IT UP

Remaining Games:

Royals (+140)
Angels (+113)
Tigers (-157)
Rays (-122)
Phillies (-215)

TOMORROW MEANS COLLEGE FOOTBALL