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Complete List of 2010 Daytona 500 Odds Can Be Found At The Bottom of This Post

NASCAR will officially kick off the 2010 season with the 52^nd running of the Daytona 500 this Sunday afternoon from Daytona International Speedway. The Daytona 500, known as the Great American Race, is the epic race for the top drivers in NASCAR at possibly the most exciting speedway on earth. 51 year old Mark Martin surprised everyone in 2009 by winning 5 races after coming out of retirement to finish 2nd to Jimmie Johnson in the points standings. Martin is off to another great start after winning the pole for the Daytona 500 and he will lead the field to the green flag this Sunday. Teammate Dale Earnhardt Jr will be on the outside of Martin in the number 2 starting spot and will be trying to shake off a disastrous 2009 season. Earnhardt has always run really well at the restrictor plate races and NASCAR’s most popular driver is long overdue for another victory.

The starting positions for the rest of the 43 car field will be determined Thursday in the Gatorade 125 Duel races. The unique aspect of the Daytona 500 is only the front row is locked in on qualifying times. The rest of the cars are split into two groups based on those qualifying times and will run 125 miles to determine the starting positions this Sunday. While qualifying is not a major concern at the restrictor plate races due to the amount of ground a driver can make up easily in the draft, history tells us that a strong starting position goes along way in the Daytona 500. Nearly 90% of all Daytona 500 winners have come from the top 15 starting positions and nearly half of those winners have come from the top 5 starting positions. However, it is still a restrictor plate race and any driver can have a chance. Just ask Brad Keselowski who captured his first victory last year at Talladega, a track similar to Daytona based on the use of restrictor plates, in just his 5^th career start.

One of the big changes involving the Great American Race this year is the change in the size of the restrictor plates. Over the last two seasons, the racing at restrictor plate tracks Talladega and Daytona have suffered in competition. The restrictor plates were keeping the field bunched up and making it chess match to get out front using the draft. However, bigger restrictor plates used this year will not only increase horse power but also increase throttle response for the drivers. This change should put a little more control into the driver’s hands and I believe you will see the premier restrictor plates racers up front this Sunday. Therefore drivers like Tony Stewart, Kyle Busch, Dale Earnhardt Jr, and Jeff Gordon should be some of the top picks to win the Daytona 500. In fact, Tony Stewart is the leading favorite to win the Daytona 500 at +700 odds. Stewart has never won the Daytona 500 even though he has proven to be among the best restrictor plate drivers in NASCAR. Stewart did win the July Coke Zero 400 at Daytona last year and has 4 other super speedway wins during his career.

Kyle Busch has also been lights out at the super speedways entering the race as a +800 favorite. Busch and the #18 team do have a new crew chief on board with Dave Rogers. Busch possibly is the most talented driver in NASCAR outside of Jimmie Johnson, but I would not encourage betting on a new team in a race of this magnitude. Speaking of Johnson, he will be starting his run at a 5^th consecutive championship. Johnson already broke all NASCAR record for winning 4 straight championships, but he has not faired too strong in the Daytona 500 despite winning the event in 2006. Johnson will be receiving +1000 odds this Sunday. Outside of the previously mentioned drivers, I would love to touch on a number of other possible contenders this Sunday but that could be everybody. Instead, I have listed a couple of possible bets for you to consider for the Daytona 500 this Sunday that I have listed below.

Driver to win the Daytona 500

I really think this is the year for Tony Stewart to pull off the victory. Stewart has been all too close in recent years and he knows how to stay in front of the pack. Consider he has led each of the last 7 Daytona 500’s including leading the most laps in two of those events and it is easy to see why he is due for the ultimate win in racing. The only downside is that Stewart is listed as the favorite to win the event and it has been 6 years since the last favorite won the Daytona 500 (Dale Earnhardt Jr 2004). However, still with the new rule changes it will benefit the best restrictor plate racers. Dale Earnhardt Jr and Kyle Busch come to mind, but their teams have not been very strong especially compared to Stewart’s. I believe those factors will come together and crown Stewart the winner of the Daytona 500 this Sunday.

Pick – Tony Stewart (8 to 1 @ Oddsmaker)

Long shot to win the Daytona 500

 There are a couple drivers that deserve a lot of attention due to their lack of respect from the line makers. Kevin Harvick just won his 2^nd straight Budweiser Shootout last week not to mention he is a previous Daytona 500 Champion and is receiving very profitable +1500 odds. Another driver I think should deserve some attention is Jamie McMurray. McMurray took over the #1 Bass Pro Shops machine this year and looked very strong in the Shootout last week. Not to mention former Dale Earnhardt Inc cars have always run well at the super speedways even though they are now a merger making Earnhardt-Ganassi Racing. Still, McMurray should be a driver to consider at +2200 odds. However, the driver I like is an even bigger dark horse. Brian Vickers had a great season in 2009 making the Chase over Kyle Busch by just 19 points. Vickers first career victory come at Talladega, another super speedway, and he was another driver that stayed at the front during the Budweiser Shootout. Vickers ran up front at both Daytona and Talladega in 2009 scoring 2 top 10 victories despite some trouble in the Daytona 500. However, I believe he is a guy that is going to hang around the front this Sunday and if he hangs around long enough he just might drive into victory lane. Plus to put some icing on this long shot, consider incredible +3500 odds if that predictions happens to come true.

Pick – Brian Vickers (30 to 1 @ Oddsmaker)

Duel 1 Race Match-Up

Mark Martin vs. Jimmie Johnson

One thing that was apparent from the start of practice last Thursday is that Mark Martin had the fastest car in the field. He came out and topped the charts in his first two laps and did the same during his two lap qualifying run. His position may already be locked in, but that will not stop him from trying to win the Gatorade 125. Starting out front, Martin already has the advantage not to mention again the fastest car. Plus Jimmie Johnson did not appear all too comfortable with the handling on this #48 Lowes Chevrolet. Expect the old man to get the job done.

Pick – Mark Martin

Duel 2 Race Match-Up

 Kasey Kahne vs. Martin Truex Jr.

 Neither of these two drivers is expected to be dominating forces at Daytona this weekend, but both have the talent to contend. Kasey Kahne finished 2^nd at the Amp Energy 500 at Talladega last season after scoring a top 15 at the Coke Zero 400 in Daytona. Also, Richard Petty Motorsports has made some solid strides to getting back to a competitive level. However, Michael Waltrip Racing who owns the car that Martin Truex Jr will be driving has not shown that type of strength. In fact, all the MWR cars appeared a bit underpowered last week including Michael Waltrip who has always run well at Daytona considering he is the only driver to have 2 Daytona 500 victories in the last decade. I expect Truex and company to struggle in this event and Kahne to have another solid run.

Pick – Kahne

Current & Latest Odds To Win The Daytona 500 @ Oddsmaker Sportsbook:
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Kyle Busch +800
Denny Hamlin +1200
Jimmie Johnson +1000
Dale Earnhardt Jr +800
Juan Pablo Montoya +1500
Carl Edwards +1500
Ryan Newman +2500
Jamie McMurray +2500
Martin Truex Jr +3000
Brian Vickers +3000
Kasey Kahne +2500
Greg Biffle +4000
Marcos Ambrose +5000
AJ Allmendinger +5000
Casey Mears +6000
Bobby Labonte +6000
Scott Speed +10000
Tony Stewart +800
Jeff Gordon +1000
Mark Martin +800
Kurt Busch +1200
Kevin Harvick +1200
Matt Kenseth +2000
Clint Bowyer +3000
David Ragan +3000
Joey Logano +2500
Jeff Burton +3000
David Reutimann +4000
Brad Keselowski +3000
Sam Hornish Jr +5000
Michael Waltrip +5000
Elliott Sadler +6000
Paul Menard +10000
Field (Any Other Driver) +3000

Are you sick of seeing the same ugly mugs on the television when you turn on SportsCenter, your favorite sports show, or the local news? Day after day, night after night, we continue to see and hear the latest on the same individuals over and over. It is understood that these are important figures in the sports world, but come on, give us a break on the same ole, same ole. We don’t need to know every twitter post from these guys! Here is the list of Media Darlings; the top 10 athletes loved by the media.

10. Manny Ramirez, left fielder, Los Angeles Dodgers.

How many times have you heard “that’s just Manny being Manny”? While the love fest for the left fielder has died down some since going to Los Angeles, he continues to get quite the coverage. Ramirez brought a lot of the news on himself, with his antics, such as going to the bathroom in between pitching changes, and his turbulent exit from Boston. Most recently, Manny served a suspension for breaking MLB’s performance enhancing drug policy. Ramirez helped lead his team to another NLCS this season, once again coming up short. After sweeping St. Louis, the Dodgers were downed by Philadelphia. Ramirez has 546 career homeruns.

9. Tom Brady, quarterback, New England Patriots.

I guess when you have a gorgeous celebrity wife, you can’t help but be put in the spotlight.  It can’t hurt that Brady has turned into a historic quarterback. Playing for Bill Bellichick never hurts either. Remember when Brady and his wife were expecting their child? What about when Brady got hurt? His coverage was all over, and still is today. Brady came back in 2009 as comeback player of the season, leading the Patriots to an AFC East title. Brady set another record this season by throwing for five touchdowns in one quarter (a win over Tennessee).

8. Alex Rodriguez, third basemen, New York Yankees.

No baseball player is dissected more than A-Rod. Rodriguez elected to make the jump from Seattle, to Texas, to the media capital of the world – in New York. It was iffy early in his tenure in New York whether he could survive or not, but the fall of 2009 proved he could. Whether it’s a ground out to third, a fly ball to right, or a grand slam, rest assured, you will see all of Alex Rodriguez’s at bats! Another steroid guy, as he admitted in February of 2009 to using them. A-Rod is just 17 homeruns short of 600, and is widely discussed as the next to break the all-time homerun record in Major League Baseball.

7. Lance Armstrong, cyclist.

For good reason, this guy is the best American cyclist ever. Luckily, for those of us ready to see Lance Armstrong retire for good, the Tour de France is only one month out of the year. If it were more, we would surely be getting a Lance overdose! Armstrong won seven straight Tour de France titles from 1995 to 2005. Armstrong is also known for his fight with testicular cancer, that he has had since 1996. Armstrong, in 2010, joined Team Radio Shack.

6. Terrell Owens, wide receiver, Buffalo Bills.

Known best for ripping apart talented football teams, Terrell Owens is slowly falling down the media love fest list. Owens was king during his final year with Tony Romo in Dallas. We still get to hear every comment he makes, just this time, nobody cares, because he plays in the northeast. No one is denying Owens’ talent. Out of Tennessee-Chattanooga, T.O. has been on six Pro Bowl teams, and amassed 1000 career receptions. Owens most famous sighting on television was with his great big goofy sun glasses, crying for his quarterback Tony Romo, in what may have been the biggest acting job by the wide receiver; “That’s my quarterback.  That’s my teammate.”

5. OchoCinco, wide receiver, Cincinnati Bengals.

Twitter loves OchoCinco and his antics. Good thing they do, because the NFL sure doesn’t. We hear every time Chad Johnson, errr, OchoCinco goes bathroom, as he posts it on Twitter. Every Sunday, if you turn on the TV, 85 will be shown doing whatever he did that week to get fined. Drafted out of Oregon State, Chad officially changed his name to “OchoCinco” in 2006. The wide receiver has made the Pro Bowl six times, and has caught nearly 700 passes, for just shy of 1000 yards and 62 touchdowns.

4. LeBron James, guard, Cleveland Cavaliers.

The King has been a hit with the worldwide leader of sports since his high school days. The one guy that was getting his high school games covered by major cable channels. James’s issue with the hummer, along with his entire journey as a complete stud in the NBA have been chronicled daily. Currently, James is in the media for his status for the 2011 season. When he becomes a free agent, many believe James will bolt his home state and head to the money in New York. He has led the Cavaliers to the NBA finals once in his career. LeBron, who turned 25 in December, won his first Most Valuable Player award in 2009.

3. Brett Favre, quarterback, Minnesota Vikings.

Mr. retire and comeback, over and over again – Brett Favre. Favre is best known for hijacking the local news the last couple July’s. First it was his drama with his long time team the Green Bay Packers, then it was his desire to return. First to the Big Apple, with the New York Jets, followed by his retirement again, which led to another return; this time to Minnesota with the Vikings; a long time rival of the Packers. Favre, in 2009, had a scuffle with his head coach Brad Childress that led to ongoing media coverage lasting for weeks. Favre and the Vikings have righted the ship, and he is leading the high powered offense into the Big Easy to take on the Saints in the NFC title game.

2. Tim Tebow, quarterback, University of Florida.

As one individual put it when discussing Mr. Tebow and the media coverage, “no person has had the media on their knees more than Tim Tebow.” Known widely for the most popular collegiate athlete, Tebow has let his talking be done on the field. Tebow helped lead Florida to two national championships, and also has a Heisman to boot. Tebow is talked about as the second coming of God for all his countless missionary deeds. Most recently, Tebow has spent the past three summers in the Philippines, working with his father’s missionary and orphanage.

1. Tiger Woods, golfer, sex addict.

Especially now. Tiger Woods was plastered all over the news for weeks after his car accident, which led to his marital status going down the drain. Even before all the drama went down with Tiger, he was the lead story on weekends for all major tournaments. Woods has won 14 major golf championships, which is second most of any male golfer in history. Tiger has been awarded with the PGA Player of the Year for a record of ten times. Woods announced an indefinite leave from golf to focus on his marriage and family in December of 2009. Tiger has recently been reported to have been seen in Mississippi at a rehabilitation center to be treated for his sex addiction.

Others receiving an absurd amount of coverage:

Derek Jeter, shortstop, New York Yankees

Shaquille O’Neal, center, Cleveland Cavaliers

Rafael Nadel, Tennis star

Peyton Manning, quarterback, Indianapolis Colts

Tony Romo, quarterback, Dallas Cowboys

Donovan McNabb, quarterback, Philadelphia Eagles

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The 2009-10 NFL Football Playoff Bracket Can Be Found Below

We have been tracking the playoff race for nearly a month now and finally the 2010 NFL playoffs layout is set in stone. Wildcard weekend will get started off in an exciting way featuring two week 17 rematches in the NFC and also another week 17 rematch in the AFC. The question that everyone will be asking now is what can everyone expect heading into the start of the postseason? The Indianapolis Colts appeared to be on track for an undefeated season, but opted to rest their star players which resulted in two straight losses. Will the Colts be able to regain their rhythm when they take the field after their first round bye? The same can be asked for the New Orleans Saints in the NFC who were also on the route to perfection before losing 3 straight games to close out the year. Take a look as we give a brief preview of what to expect from both conferences and the teams to watch for during the rest of the playoff season.

NFC Predictions

The Dallas Cowboys defense pitched two straight shutouts to close out the season including a 24-0 win over the Eagles to win the NFC East crown. The Eagles and Cowboys will battle again in the first round of the playoffs and their defensive play should draw some attention. The Cowboys offense has been able to post points this year so if their defense continues to play well they are dangerous. Expect them to sneak by the Eagles in a much closer game, but nonetheless take down Philadelphia for the 3rd time this season. The other game to kickoff wildcard weekend in the NFC will be Green Bay at Arizona. The Packers blew out the Cardinals in the desert last weekend 33-7. The Cardinals exploded with magic last year during the playoffs and they will be a long shot to pull of those accomplishments again. The Packers have really played well all season and the Cardinals inconsistent play causes concern. Unless, the Cardinals defense really steps up the Packers will repeat next weekend. The Packers also could be the surprise team of the playoffs because if they can pull off another Arizona defeat they will take on the suddenly struggling Saints. If Aaron Rodgers continues to play well, the Packers could be waiting in the NFC Championship game to take on the winner of a Dallas/Minnesota match-up. The Cowboys and Vikings would be a very interesting match-up considering the Vikings explosive balanced offense. The Cowboys postseason drought may come to an end this season, but we give the Vikings the edge in a close one setting up Green Bay at Minnesota in the NFC Championship Game.

AFC Predictions

The loss of Wes Welker really hurt the Patriots chances for postseason success considering how Randy Moss has quietly ended the season. QB Tom Brady has also been banged up and their meeting with the Ravens should be very interesting. Expecting the Patriots offense to be less dynamic, the Ravens and Patriots should be a in a low scoring defensive battle. The game may be a toss-up, but running back Ray Rice for the Ravens could be the difference and capture Baltimore the victory. The other wildcard meeting features the week 17 rematch with the New York Jets and Cincinnati Bengals. The Jets stomped the Bengals to earn their playoff berth with a 37-0 blowout. However, the Bengals starters were on the bench so do not expect another massacre. The Jets definitely have the momentum, but the Bengals defense will give a big effort and Carson Palmer will throw a few interceptions and score what many will believe as a mild upset. After those pair of games, the playoffs will move to the 2nd round with anticipated meetings with Indianapolis/Baltimore and New York/San Diego. The Chargers remain the hottest team in the league. Even with QB Phillip Rivers on the bench last week, backup Billy Volek directed a game winning drive to beat the Redskins 23-20. The Jets offensive up and downs will be apparent as the Chargers will roll. The Colts and Ravens should also present an interesting match-up. The Ravens defense can frustrate the Colts up front and short passes over the middle of the field. The Colts still have the advantage, but the Ravens could make things interesting. However, QB Peyton Manning and company should be ready after the week off to post a stellar offensive effort. The Colts take down the Ravens forcing a San Diego at Indianapolis battle for the AFC Championship.

A few weeks ago we broke down some of the most exciting players in college basketball giving you detailed looks at both the point and shooting guard positions. Now we want to switch focus from the back court to down inside the paint to break down some of the big men in the middle. Of course there are plenty of big forwards around the nation, but we actually want to break down the centers in college basketball. These are the beast on the inside that manufacture points and control the boards. Often times at the college level, centers do not get the respect they deserve. However, you never know when some emerging youngster is going to become a Dwight Howard type player in the NBA with the ability to capture 20 rebounds and 20 points per game. There is not any doubt that there are some big time centers on the hardwood this season in college basketball, but who are the best? Take a look as we break down the top 10 centers in college basketball.

#10. Dexter Pittman 6’10 (Texas)

Dexter Pittman is quite possibly the best center in the Big 12 and an experienced senior that has helped the Longhorns get off to an undefeated 12-0 start. Pittman has averaged 13.8 points per game even though his scoring is often times hot and cold. However, he is an extremely effective shot taker and is knocking down a lucrative 74% from the field. The problem that Pittman has is his size does not allow him to move around well without the ball and when he gets the ball he has troubles creating scoring opportunities. Also, the Longhorns would love for Pittman to increase his rebounding total on the inside. However, he is still a big time player and dropped a season high 23 points in the Longhorns biggest victory of the year against the North Carolina Tarheels.

#9. Jerome Jordan 7’0 (Tulsa)

Jerome Jordan is the 2nd of many seniors on our list. Jordan posted 13.8 points and 8.6 rebounds per game in his junior campaign. However, Jordan has started heating up in the past few weeks and it appears that he could have a great opportunity to increase those numbers from a year ago. Despite back to back losses, Jordan is just one rebound short of 3 straight double-double performances. Jordan is a big guy that normally takes high percentage shots close to the basket. In fact, he could finish his career with a 70% field goal percentage. Jordan has also become a solid defensive player and if he continues improving on the defensive side of the ball his stock will continue to rise.

#8. Soloman Alabi 7’1 (Florida State)

Soloman Alabi is a guy that is going to be a big force in a short time period. Alabi is an extremely big sophomore standing at 7’1 for the Seminoles of Florida State. Alabi is still developing, but leads the Seminoles with 12.3 points per game along with 7.1 rebounds. Alabi has proven to have the ability to post big scoring numbers, but the problem is consistency. Alabi has posted 20 plus points on 3 different occasions this season, but has also been held to less than 8 points on 4 occasions as well. If he can develop into the consistent threat the Seminoles need, he will be a big player in the ACC.

#7. Larry Sanders (Virginia Commonwealth)

Larry Sanders is the leading playmaker for the Virginia Commonwealth Rams and is grabbing some mainstream attention for his efforts. Sanders and the Rams play a pretty light schedule in terms of competition. However, Sanders has played well against the top teams on the schedule dropping 17 against Oklahoma and a season high 23 against East Carolina. Sanders currently averages 14.8 points per game and is also pulling down 8.5 rebounds on average as well. Sanders ability to grab some rebounds has improved dramatically since the start of the season and he could be averaging double-double figures by season’s end.

#6. Trevor Booker 6’7 (Clemson)

Trevor Bookers is a guy that many will have listed as a forward, but he actually plays as a center for the Tigers. Booker has been the rock for the Tigers over the past few years. He currently leads the team in scoring averaging 15 points per game against the brutal competition in the ACC while also bringing down 9 boards per game. Booker seems to always step up in the pressure situations whether it involves a needed basket or an important rebound. Clemson would definitely not be the team they are if not for their experienced senior in the paint.

#5. JaJuan Johnson 6’10 (Purdue)

JaJuan Johnson is coming off his biggest performance of the season posting 25 points against the Mountaineers on New Year’s Day. Johnson sometimes gets overshadowed behind teammates Robbie Hummel and E’Twaun Moore. However, Johnson is becoming a big scorer inside the paint and knocking down a healthy 54% from the floor. The Boilermakers are undefeated on the season and a big part of that can be contributed to Johnson’s 13.8 point average on the season. However, he still needs to improve against the glass before he becomes a dominating presence on the inside. Johnson’s 6.5 rebound average is the highest of his career and that is something that will definitely need to improve.

#4. Jarvis Varnado 6’9 (Mississippi State)

Jarvis Varnado has slowly developed into a monster for the Bulldogs inside the paint. Varnado leads the SEC as the all-time blocked shots leader and broke the single season record last year with 171 blocked shots. If Varnado can stay on pace, he will break the NCAA all-time blocked shots record at 535. However, Varnado can do much more than just block shots. He has slowly developed into a solid scoring threat averaging 14.1 points per game. Also, Varnado has steadily improved against the boards and this is his first season averaging over 10 rebounds per game. Varnado is a guy that with some continued hard work could make get immediate playing time at the next level just for his defensive tendencies, but overtime will contribute as a scorer.

#3. Omar Samhan 6’11 (St. Mary’s)

Omar Samhan may be a guy that few people know about around the nation, but he is a guy terrorizing the West Coast Conference. Samhan has exploded as a dominating scorer averaging 20.8 points and also takes care of business on the boards averaging 11 rebounds per game. Samhan is a big guy that moves around well and creates a lot of scoring opportunities. What may be even more impressive is that he tends to play very well against the top competition the Gaels’ face and has dropped a couple of 30 plus point performances. While Samhan may not face the level of competition that most will face, he is definitely an experienced threat that is proving his self week in and week out. A few games against Gonzaga and other respectable teams in the near future will give us an even better idea of just how good the St. Mary’s star has become.

#2. Greg Monroe 6’11 (Georgetown)

If you remember watching Georgetown last year, then perhaps you can recall the 7’0 monster kid on the inside that looked a little lost at time. Monroe had the size the moment he stepped on the court. However, Monroe spent most of his freshman year learning how to use that body. Monroe attempted very few shots in his freshman campaign, but still averaging 12.7 points per game with 6.5 rebounds. So far this season, Monroe is slowly emerging as the go to guy in the paint which should have been the case all along. However, Monroe has scored at least 15 points in 5 straight games and currently averaging 15 points with 10.3 rebounds per game. Monroe is definitely the guy with the most potential on our list and there is no doubt that he could be the top center in the nation by the end of the year. Considering the number of games he puts up really high rebounding totals, he will be an eye catcher on NBA Draft boards.

#1. Cole Aldrich 6’11 (Kansas)

Cole Aldrich put up some very solid numbers as a sophomore scoring 14.1 points and pulling down 11.1 rebounds per game. Easily the most experienced and possibly even one of the most important big men in the country for the number 1 Kansas Jayhawks. This season Aldrich is averaging double-double numbers yet again with 11.2 points and 10.1 rebounds per game. Aldrich is one of those guys that consistently get his numbers. However, once he learns how to use his body and become a true post player he is going to be even more dangerous at the next level. Most NBA scouts believe Aldrich will shine outside of the college system and some boards have him listed as a potential lottery pick in the NBA Draft.

The NFL heads into the final week of the regular season this Sunday and there are still playoff possibilities up for grabs. The NFC playoff race was decided when the Cowboys beat the Redskins with the help of a Giants loss. However, the AFC postseason race still has a ton of different possible outcomes that could unfold in week 17. We have updated the playoff picture and take a look at what is still on the line for each team heading into the final week of the season.

NFC East

Philadelphia Eagles (11-4) – Clinched playoff berth

The Eagles are still fighting for the NFC East crown when they travel to Dallas this weekend in a rematch from a 20-16 loss to the Cowboys in week 9. So what is the real significance of the win? Well not only will the Eagles win the division and host their first playoff game, but a win also grabs the Eagles a first round bye thanks to the Vikings meltdown over the past few weeks.

Dallas Cowboys (10-5) – Clinched playoff berth

The Dallas Cowboys clinched a playoff berth with a 17-0 shutout over the Redskins this weekend. The question everyone will be asking now is can the Cowboys end their postseason winless drought that dates all the way back to 1996. The Cowboys of course will also be battling for the division title against the Eagles this Sunday. A win will also earn the Cowboys the opportunity to host the first round of the playoffs.

New York Giants (8-7) – Out

Washington Redskins (4-11) – Out

NFC North

Minnesota Vikings (11-4) -Clinched division

The Vikings have now lost 3 of their last 4 games and may miss out on a first round bye if the Eagles beat the Cowboys. However, if the Eagles lose the Viking still wrap up the first round bye with a victory over the Giants this Sunday.

Green Bay Packers (10-5) – Clinched playoff berth

Chicago Bears (6-9) – Out

Detroit Lions (2-13) – Out

NFC South

New Orleans Saints (13-2) – Clinched division and first round bye

Even with a overtime loss to the Buccaneers last Sunday, the Saints still locked up home field advantage through the playoffs thanks to the Vikings loss to the Bears. However, the back to back losses are causing a lot of concern in regards to just how far the Saints can go in the playoffs.

Atlanta Falcons (8-7) – Out

Carolina Panthers (7-8) – Out

Tampa Bay Buccaneers (3-12) – Out

NFC West

Arizona Cardinals (10-5) – Clinched division

San Francisco 49ers (7-8) – Out

Seattle Seahawks (5-10) – Out

St. Louis Rams (1-14) – Out

AFC East

New England Patriots (10-5) – Clinched division

New York Jets (8-7) – The Jets had everything go right last week. The Jets ended the Colts dream of a perfect season with a 29-15 victory in Indianapolis. The Jets also got a ton of help in the wildcard race with losses from Miami, Jacksonville, and Denver. Once a long shot at the postseason, the Jets control their own destiny and will be in the playoffs with a win over Cincinnati this week.

Miami Dolphins (7-8) – The Dolphins postseason hopes were nearly destroyed after their 2nd straight loss this week. The Dolphins have to beat the Steelers who will also be fighting for postseason chances this weekend as well. However, even if the Dolphins win they will need the Jets, Ravens, Jaguars, and Texans to all lose.

Buffalo Bills (5-10) – Out

AFC North

Cincinnati Bengals (10-5) – Clinched division

Baltimore Ravens (8-7) – The Ravens close loss to the Steelers last week was a big disappointment, but they still control their destiny for the playoffs. Baltimore simply needs to beat the struggling Raiders and they will lock down one of the wildcard sports in the postseason.

Pittsburgh Steelers (8-7) – The Steelers once written off as dead have battled their way back into the playoff picture after big wins over Green Bay and Baltimore. The Steelers still need some help, but they can make the playoffs in 3 possible scenarios if they beat the Dolphins this weekend. These things have to happen if the Steelers win this weekend: Jets and Texans lose, Texans and Ravens lose, or Jets, Ravens, and Broncos lose.

Cleveland Browns (4-11) – Out

AFC South

Indianapolis Colts (14-1) – Clinched Division and home field advantage throughout.

Houston Texans (8-7) – The Texans took care of business this week jumping all over the Dolphins early and then holding them off for a 27-20 victory. The Texans now need to beat the Patriots this week and get a little help. Even if the Texans win they will need these possible scenarios to play out: Jets and Ravens lose, Jets and Broncos lose, or Ravens and Broncos lose.

Jacksonville Jaguars (7-8) – The Jaguars were embarrassed last week by the Patriots and only a late score kept them from being shutout 35-7. The Jaguars will now need to capture a win over the suddenly surging Browns this Sunday and get a lot of help. With a win over Cleveland the Browns will still need the following scenarios to play out: Steelers, Ravens, Broncos, and Texans lose, or Steelers, Ravens, Broncos and Jets lose, or Steelers, Ravens, Texans, and Jets lose, or Steelers, Broncos, Texans, and Jets lose, or finally Jets, Broncos, Texans, and Ravens lose.

Tennessee Titans (7-8) – Out

AFC West

San Diego Chargers (11-3) – Clinched division and first round bye

Denver Broncos (8-7) – The Broncos struggles continued after a close loss to the Eagles last week. The Broncos appeared as locks for the playoffs, but after losing 3 straight games suddenly need some help even if they can bring down a win this week against Kansas City. If the Broncos can beat the 3-12 Chiefs, the following events need to occur: Jets and Ravens lose, or Jets and Steelers lose, or Jets and Texans lose, or Ravens and Steelers lose, or Ravens and Texans lose, or Ravens lose and Texans win. If the Broncos do not beat the Chiefs they will need the Steelers to lose and the following to happen: Ravens, Texans, and Jaguars lose, or Ravens, Texans, and Jets lose, or Ravens, Jaguars, and Jets lose, or Texans, Jaguars, and Jets lose. One other long shot scenario could also get the Broncos into the playoffs regardless what happens against the Chiefs and that would be if the Dolphins, Jets, Ravens, Texans, and Jaguars all lose.

Oakland Raiders (5-10) – Out

Kansas City Chiefs (3-12) – Out

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Last week in the NFL, scoring returned in a big way. After a couple weeks of really low scoring, there were a ton of points score in week 15. In fact, six different games had more than 50 points scored while 3 of those contests combined for more than 65 total point a piece. As a result, the over totals held an 8-6 advantage over the under totals this past weekend. However, heading into week 16 there is not a single game with a total over 49 which should be something to keep an eye on if scoring surges again. Another popular trend last week was the number of impressive road performances. The road teams were 8-5 SU last week. As a whole, road teams were 8-4-1 ATS against the home field advantage. It was also the first week in the month of December where the favored teams did not hold the advantage over the underdogs. The underdogs were also 8-4-1 ATS and road underdogs were even more impressive going 6-2 ATS. In fact, road underdogs are the big trend when looking at the week 16 NFL lines. Road teams will be underdogs in 14 of 16 contests this weekend. The only games that will feature away teams that are favored will be Sunday and Monday night featured NFC battles. However, the more important factor that will continue to shape out this week will be the postseason race. The NFC picture is becoming clearer, but the AFC race is still wide open with 6 different teams at 7-7 trying to fight their way into a wildcard spot. Check out all of those important playoff games with their respected betting lines below as we continue to approach the end of the NFL regular season. All of these week 16 NFL lines from BetUS Sportsbook can be found below. You can get a HUGE 100% Bonus (Up to $500) at BetUS Using This Exclusive Link. Be sure to also check out the complete Week 16 NFL Playoff Pitcure below to see which teams are still alive and which teams will be watching the playoffs on TV.

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Last week a lot of NFL team’s postseason chances came to an end primarily in the NFC. However, the AFC wildcard race is still completely up for grabs with a host of teams lingering at the 7-7 mark on the season. Among those teams are the defending Super Bowl Champions in the Pittsburgh Steelers who kept their chances alive with a Ben Roethlisberger game winning touchdown pass as time expired in a big victory against the Green Bay Packers. However, the odds may be stacked against the Steelers to find a position in the playoffs. Find out the Steelers chances to make the playoffs along with all the other teams in the NFL as we continue to breakdown the postseason playoff picture.

NFC East

Philadelphia Eagles (10-4) – Philadelphia clinched a playoff berth with their 27-13 win over the 49ers this weekend. However, the Eagles can still do more damage. They currently sit a top the NFC East and could clinch the division with another win combined with a Dallas loss. The Eagles could also lose to the Broncos this week and still win the division with a victory against Dallas in the finale. Also, the Eagles could still get a first round bye in the playoffs with another Vikings loss as long as they continue to win.

Dallas Cowboys (9-5) – The Cowboys stunned the football world with a big victory over the previously unbeaten Saints last weekend. The milestone victory ended at ever going talk of the December slump and kept the Cowboys in the wildcard position for the playoffs. Dallas is currently in a race with the Giants for the final wildcard spot. The Giants would win the tie breaker due to the head to head sweep, but the Giants trial by one game currently. Dallas also has the same record as Green Bay meaning they could also guarantee a spot in the playoffs with one more victory if the Packers lost their remaining two. However, all those scenarios are given if the Cowboys lose another game but they still control their destiny if they continue to win. Also, if the Cowboys get by Washington this weekend they will have the chance to take down the division against the Eagles in week 17.

New York Giants (8-6) – The Giants just crushed Washington this past Monday 45-12 in an all around impressive effort. The Giants would currently be out of the playoffs if the season ended today, but they are also the only team still alive outside of the 6 teams that are currently in the playoffs. The Giants could close the door with another Dallas loss if they were to win out. Also, if the Packers lose their last two games the Giants could earn a spot with two more victories. If the Giants just split the last two games, they would need Dallas to lose both games.

Washington Redskins (4-10) – Out

NFC North

Minnesota Vikings (11-3) – Clinched Division

The Vikings loss to the Panthers opened the door for the Eagles to have a chance at taking their first round bye. Minnesota would lose the tie breaker for 2nd best record in the NFL with another loss (given the Eagles win) due to their conference record.

Green Bay Packers (9-5) – The Packers last second loss to the Steelers this week was a setback in regards to the postseason. However, the Packers still have a good chance to lock in a spot with just one more victory due to their head to head victory over Dallas and two game advantage over the Giants. However, if they lost their remaining two games they would need Dallas or New York to at least lose one game.

Chicago Bears (5-9) – Out

Detroit Lions (2-12) – Out

NFC South

New Orleans Saints (13-1) – Clinched Division and first round bye.  New Orleans pursuit of a perfect season ended last week to the Cowboys. However, they are still poised for a deep playoff run and another victory would wrap up home field advantage throughout the playoffs.

Atlanta Falcons (7-7) – Out

Carolina Panthers (6-8) – Out

Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2-12) – Out

NFC West

Arizona Cardinals (9-5) – Clinched Division

San Francisco 49ers (6-8) – Out

Seattle Seahawks (5-9) – Out

St. Louis Rams (1-13) – Out

AFC East

New England Patriots (9-5) – The Patriots definitely have not been the dominating New England team we are accustomed to this time a year. However, last week’s 17-10 victory over Buffalo puts the Patriots just one victory away from clinching the division. The Patriots could also clinch the division guaranteeing a postseason berth with another Miami loss.

Miami Dolphins (7-7) – The Dolphins are just one of six teams currently sitting at 7-7. The Dolphins could still advance if a few scenarios play out. One of course would be if the Patriots lost their last two and the Dolphins win out to steal the division title. For Miami to capture a wildcard spot, they would need either Denver and/or Baltimore to lose their final two games while winning their last two games.

New York Jets (7-7) – The Jets are also at the 7-7 mark on the season after a 10-7 loss to the Falcons last week. The Jets can not win the division so their only option is to somehow win a wildcard position. The Jets absolutely have to win their remaining two games and hope for the following: Jacksonville loses to New England and Miami loses to Houston, plus either of the following: have Baltimore lose at Pittsburgh or Denver lose at Philadelphia.

Buffalo Bills (5-9) – Out

AFC North

Cincinnati Bengals (9-4) – The Bengals dropped their 2nd straight game last week in an emotional 27-24 loss to the Chargers keeping the door open in the division race. Cincinnati still needs one more victory to clinch the AFC North or a Baltimore loss.

Baltimore Ravens (8-6) – The Ravens blew out Chicago last week 31-7 to strengthen their playoff chances. Baltimore is also still alive in the division, but would need the Bengals to lose their remaining two games to reach that goal. The Ravens could clinch a playoff berth with a win this week with the following scenarios playing out: Jacksonville loss along with Jets or Broncos loss. Ravens could also earn a spot with losses by Jets, Broncos, and Dolphins this week as well.

Pittsburgh Steelers (7-7) – The Steelers kept their postseason chances alive last week with a clutch victory against the Packers. Pittsburgh still has an uphill battle to climb given their 4-6 conference record. There are tons of scenarios that could play out. One interesting scenarios would be if the Steelers win out they would need Houston, Jacksonville, Denver, and New York to lose at least one game. (All of those teams are underdogs for week 16) Of course there are many other scenarios given all the teams fighting for wildcard spot, but one thing is certain that is the Steelers must win.

Cleveland Browns (3-11) – Out

AFC South

Indianapolis Colts (13-0) – Clinched Division and home field advantage throughout.

Jacksonville Jaguars (7-7) – The Jaguars played really well against the Colts last week nearly ending their undefeated season. However, the loss put them right in the middle of a pack of 7-7 teams. Still, the Jaguars chances are pretty good or at least better than other teams with the same record. The Jaguars control their own destiny with another Denver or Baltimore loss.

Tennessee Titans (7-7) – The Titans kept their slim postseason chances alive with a 27-24 victory over Miami last Sunday. Tennessee must win their final two games of the season and get a lot of help. The Titans need both Denver and Baltimore to lose their final two games. Also, Tennessee would nearly need to finish ahead of all the current teams at 7-7 given they have the worse conference record of every team except Houston.

Houston Texans (7-7) – The Texans are also still alive for just one more week, but they need more help than anyone. Houston needs Denver and Baltimore to lose out. The Texans will also need the Jets to possibly lose out along with losses from both Pittsburgh and Jacksonville. All of those scenarios have to play out and the Texans must win their final two just to be eligible of a few of the tie breaker scenarios.

AFC West

San Diego Chargers (11-3) – Clinched Division

The Chargers may just be the hottest team in the AFC even with the Colts still undefeated. San Diego’s winning streak in December is now 17 straight games and they have also posted 9 straight wins currently. The Chargers are already in the postseason, but need just one more victory to capture a first round bye and home field advantage in their first playoff game.

Denver Broncos (8-6) – Denver’s postseason chances took a big hit with an unexpected loss to Oakland last week. The Broncos still currently own the final wildcard position and control their own destiny. However, they would lose tie breakers to Baltimore, Jacksonville, and Pittsburgh in the wildcard race meaning another loss would really devastate their chances. If the Broncos had to take a loss, they can not afford to lose to the Chiefs in the finale considering that would really damage their conference record. A win over Kansas City would increase their chances at 9-7, but there are too many scenarios that could play out if that happens. The main thing for Denver is to approach each game as a “must win.”

Oakland Raiders (5-9) – Out

Kansas City Chiefs (3-11) – Out