So here we are in the playoffs starting with Wildcard Weekend. Just like in the college bowls I keep separate stats for the playoffs so we are starting with a clean slate. Interesting games this weekend and trends that you must keep in mind for these games. Since 2002 the team with the better strength of schedule has gone a remarkable 37-14-1 ATS this would pick teams KC, Pitt, Minny and GB. The other trend is perfect when it comes up, a team that comes into the playoffs on a 8+ game SU winning streak in the first weekend of playoffs has gone once again a remarkable 0-13 ATS the last 13 times this has happened, the only team this affects is the Chiefs who have won 10 in a row. So as you can see there are conflicting trends here for the Chiefs/Texans game. Well it is time to make my picks for this weekend.
NFL PLAYOFF STATS
BEST BETS
Regular Plays
BEST BETS
My FIRST BEST BET this weekend is on the PITTSBURGH STEELERS/CINCINNATI BENGALS to go OVER 45. There is a trend here as the over is 6-2 ATS the last 8 times these 2 teams met in Cincinnati. Big Ben has been slinging the ball in recent games and with DeAngelo Williams out for this game Ben will not have much choice but the throw and throw and throw some more and Ben has thrown 6 INTs and 6 TDs the past 3 games vs Cleveland, Baltimore and Denver. If this trend continues this game could be over before the 4th quarter starts. So I am making the OVER in this game my first BEST BET of the weekend.
My NEXT BEST BET this weekend is on the GREEN BAY PACKERS/WASHINGTON REDSKINS to go OVER 45 1/2. I believe both these qbs will get there share of points and I see this game being in the high 40s mid 50s so with the line a 45 1/2 I like the over in this game. So I am making the OVER in this game my next BEST BET of the weekend.
My LAST BET is on the KANSAS CITY CHIEFS on the road spotting the Houston Texans 3 points. For the first time in a very long time I am bucking a very strong streak which goes against the Chiefs 0-13 ATS and instead I am backing the streak that is 37-14-1 ATS which favors the Chiefs. This is a gut pick as I think the Chiefs get the monkey off their backs and win this game but it will be an ugly game as both teams are conservative most of this game will be played between the 20s. However, when all is said and done the Chiefs will win this game by enough to cover the spread. I am making them my last BEST BET for this weekend.
Regular Plays
I like Cincinnati at home getting 3 points from Pittsburgh.
I like Seattle on the road giving 4 points to Minnesota.
I like Green Bay on the road getting a point from Washington.
Well that's it for Wildcard weekend in the NFL...
And as always - Remember to bet with your head and not over it.
