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Tuesday, December 31, 2013

Football Picks, January 1st

Several New Year's Day bowl games on the docket. One looks like an opportunity to make a few bucks.

$22 on North Texas State (-220) over UNLV
Almost a home game for the Mean Green, the Heart of Dallas bowl is an hour and a half from campus. The 7-5 Rebels have split their last 6 games and are 2-3 on the highway. North Texas comes in at 8-4 and finished strong, winning 6 of their last 7 games.


Starting Bankroll                           $1,500.00
Profit/Loss                                      $61.50
Current Bankroll                           $1,561.50

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at your own risk.

Good luck!

Basketball Picks, December 31st

Several games in the hoops world are worth a peek.

$20 on Butler (+150) over Villanova
The Bulldogs are 10-2, with both losses by 2 points to top 100 teams. They're 7-1 when eating home cookin'. The Wildcats are 11-1 overall and 1-1 on the road. They're 2-0 on neutral courts.
$23 on Golden State (-230) over Orlando
The Warriors are hot, winners of 5 straight and have only lost 1 game to an Eastern Division team this season. The Magic are 4-11 in their last 15, but have won their last 2. They've lost 9 of 11 to Western Division foes.
$11 on the OVER (213 1/2) Sacramento/Houston
The OVER has covered in 6 straight Kings games. Betting lucky #7 will happen tonight.
$11 on the OVER (185) Toronto/Chicago
The OVER has covered in 4 of the last 6 Raptor games and 185 is a low number.
 Starting Bankroll                           $1,500.00
Profit/Loss                                      $31.00
Current Bankroll                           $1,531.00

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at your own risk.

Good luck!

Football Picks, December 31st

The Liberty Bowl match up between Conference USA Champ Rice and an average SEC team (Mississippi State) is interesting.

$21 @ -105 on Mississippi State (-7) over Rice
This is a big step up in competition for the Owls. The 6-6 Bulldogs have won their last two games and are 4-0 ATS in their last 4. Rice comes inwith an impressive 10-3 record with 4 straight wins, but are a pedestrian 2-3 ATS in their last 5 games. Missy St. is 4-1 in their last 5 bowl games.
Starting Bankroll                           $1,500.00
Profit/Loss                                      $41.50
Current Bankroll                           $1,541.50

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at your own risk.

Good luck!

Monday, December 30, 2013

NFL Picks Contest- Week 17 Results and Standings


Defending champ MOJO leads the pack going into the playoffs.

With the playoffs beginning Saturday, those games will be eligible for our contest. All I ask is that you have your pick to me at least two hours before the kickoff of the game you're picking.

I'll post the picks as soon as I have received everyone's best guess meticulously researched selection.

Here are the Week 17 results and standings in the NFL Picks Contest.

lightning36- Denver (W 34-14)= 30 pts.
TwoMinuteWarning- New Orleans (W 42-17)= 35 pts.
Full House538- New Orleans (W 42-17)= 35 pts.
Music City Momma- San Diego (W 27-24)= 13 pts.
Coach-  San Diego (W 27-24)= 13 pts.
MOJO-  New Orleans (W 42-17)= 35 pts.
Vegas Vic- Denver (W 34-14)= 30 pts.
Captain Crunch- San Diego (W 27-24)= 13 pts.
cokeboy99- Philadelphia (W 24-22)= 12 pts.
OneAndDone- New Orleans (W 42-17)= 35pts.
angerisagift- Pittsburgh (W 20-7)= 23 pts.

Here are the current standings;

MOJO -                             345+ 35= 380 pts..
TwoMinuteWarning-        326+ 35= 361 pts.
lightning36-                       326+ 30= 356 pts
Full House538-                  315+ 35= 350 pts.
OneAndDone                    301+ 35= 336 pts.
Coach-                               301+ 13= 314 pts.
angerisagift-                      289+ 23= 312 pts.
Vegas Vic-                        280+ 30= 310 pts.
Captain Crunch-                244+ 13= 257 pts.
Music City Momma-         174+ 13= 187  pts.
cokeboy99-                        130+ 12= 142 pts.

Thanks for playing.

Wildcard Week picks are due two hours before the kickoff of the game you are selecting.

Good luck!

Football Picks, December 30th

One bowl game today is worth a peek.

$10 on Georgia Tech (+140) over Mississippi
The Yellow Jackets are averaging 312 YPG rushing with their option attack. The Rebels have surrendered an average of 155 YPG rushing this season. QB Bo Wallace has thrown for over 3,000 yards and 17 TD this season. The 7-5 Rebels have lost their last 2 games and are 2-3 on foreign soil. Georgia Tech is also 7-5, but have lost 2 of their last 3.
Starting Bankroll                           $1,500.00
Profit/Loss                                      $51.50
Current Bankroll                           $1,551.50

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at your own risk.

Good luck!

Basketball Picks, December 30th

Two college games on tonight's menu look interesting.

$10 on Western Kentucky (+115) over Mississippi
The Hilltoppers are 8-4 overall and a perfect 7-0 at home, including an upset win over Southern Mississippi. The Rebels are 8-3 this season, but 2-3 in their last 5 games and are 2-1 on the highway.
$10 on Vanderbilt (+140) over St. Louis
The Commodores are 7-1 at home. The Billikins are 11-2 overall and 3-1 in enemy territory. This one could come down to free throws. St. Louis' PG shoot 58% from the line, so Vandy will know who to foul when the time comes. Vandy shoots 62% as a team, so the Billikins will have several choices on whom to foul.
Starting Bankroll                           $1,500.00
Profit/Loss                                      $51.00
Current Bankroll                           $1,551.00

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at your own risk.

Good luck!

Saturday, December 28, 2013

NFL Picks Contest- Week 17 Picks


Here are the picks for this week. Looks like the Saints are the popular choice.

lightning36- Denver
TwoMinuteWarning- New Orleans
Full House- New Orleans
Music City Momma- San Diego
Coach- San Diego
MOJO-  New Orleans
Vegas Vic- Denver
Captain Crunch- San Diego
cokeboy99- Philadelphia
One&Done- New Orleans
angerisagift- Pittsburgh

Good luck!!!

Football Picks, December 29th

One NFL match looks worth betting.

$23 on Carolina (-230) over Atlanta
A big game for the Panthers and nothing more than the final game for the Falcons. Carolina has won 10 of 11, including a 34-10 drubbing of Atlanta earlier this season. The Birds have won 2 of their last 4, but lost 5 in a row before that. Look for Cam and company to waltz into the playoffs with another win under their belt.
Starting Bankroll                           $1,500.00
Profit/Loss                                      $41.50
Current Bankroll                           $1,541.50

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at your own risk.

Good luck!

Hockey Picks, December 28rh

Doing this on my phone, so this will be short and sweet.

$45 on Anaheim (-165) over Phoenix

The Ducks are 3-0 against the Coyotes this season and have won their last 9 games. Goalie Hiller is 7-0-1 versus Phoenix.

Thursday, December 26, 2013

Basketball Picks, December 27th

Three games on the NBA menu are worth a gander.

$11 @ -105 on Oklahoma City (-8 1/2) over Charlotte
The Thunder are 18-2 in their last 20, and are 6-0 ATS in their last 6 road games. They sport a 10-4 record on the highway and have covered versus Charlotte 5 straight times. The Bobcats have won 4 of their last 5 games, but are a pedestrian 8-9 at home this season.
$33 on Miami (-330) over Sacramento
The Heat are a stellar 22-6 this season and have run off 6 wins in a row. The Kings have lost 12 of 16 and have struggled at home, winning only 5 times in 16 games.
$11 @ -105 on Phoenix (+6 1/2) over Golden State
The Suns have won 8 of 9 and are 1-0 versus Golden State. The Warriors are also playing well, winning 4 of 5. 
Starting Bankroll                           $1,500.00
Profit/Loss                                      $64.00
Current Bankroll                           $1,564.00

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at your own risk.

Good luck!

Football Picks, December 27th

One game on the bowl docket today looks promising.

$21 @ -105 on Washington (-3) over BYU
BYU features a Top 25 defense, but has several starters that may not play. The Huskies are led by RB Bishop Stankey who has run for 1,775 yards and 18 TD. Washington has won 4 of their last 5 and the Cougars have split their last 4 games.
Starting Bankroll                           $1,500.00
Profit/Loss                                      $21.50
Current Bankroll                           $1,521.50

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at your own risk.

Good luck!

Wednesday, December 25, 2013

Football Picks, December 26th

Two bowl games on the day after Christmas. One is worth a peek.

$21 @ -105 on Bowling Green State (-4) over Pittsburgh
The 10-3 Falcons have won 5 straight, outscoring the enemy by a 223-44 margin. They have the #5 defense in the land, surrendering only 14.8 PPG. The only negative is that they will be playing under an interim coach. How much of a distraction will that be? The 6-6 Panthers have struggled on the highway, going 2-3. They have also lost 4 of their last 6 overall.
Starting Bankroll         $2,000.00
Profit/Loss                     $42.50
Current Bankroll          $2,042.50

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at you own risk.

Good luck!

Merry Christmas

It will be a special Christmas at the Duck Blind this year. For the first time in 15 years, we will be staying home. In almost 33 years of marriage it will only be the second time we have stayed in Waco.

Ms. Duck and I attended a Christmas Eve service at our church tonight, but neither of our kids were able to join us. My daughter is sick with either a cold or the flu (hopefully the former) and Sonny Boy was headed for a Christmas party with his girlfriend.

We usually make the 5 hour drive to share Christmas with my in-laws, then jump in the car after lunch and make the 5 hour return trip home. We take about an hour to open presents and then head for my mothers for another tree. By the time we finish there and head home, we are dead tired.

Ms. Duck's sister works at the county jail as a nurse and was unable to get time off for Christmas, so we will make the aforementioned drive Friday and return Saturday. I'm sure we'll be plenty tired by Saturday night, but being able to have a relaxed Christmas at home will make it worthwhile.

Wishing each of you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy and Healthy 2014!

Tuesday, December 24, 2013

Basketball Picks, December 25th

One game on the Christmas schedule is worth a look.

$10 on LA Clippers (+130) over Golden State
The Clippers are on a roll right now, winning 5 in a row and 7 of 8. On the road they have won 8 of 15. The Warriors are having a strong season too, winning 9 of 13 at home and 3 of their last 4. LA won the only game between the two this season.


Starting Bankroll                           $1,500.00
Profit/Loss                                      $74.00
Current Bankroll                           $1,574.00

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at your own risk.

Good luck!

NFL Picks Contest- Week 16 Results and Updated Standings


"Meet the new boss, same as the old boss."- Pete Townsend


Defending champ MOJO ascends to the throne, but most of the field is still in range.

Here are the Week 16 results and standings in the NFL Picks Contest.

lightning36- Seattle (L 10-17)= (7)pts.
TwoMinuteWarning- San Francisco (W 34-24)= 20 pts.
Full House538- Denver (W 37-13)= 34 pts.
Music City Momma- Detroit (L 20-23)= (3)pts.
Coach-  Kansas City (L 7-23)= (16)pts.
MOJO-  San Francisco (W 34-24)= 20 pts.
Vegas Vic- Denver (W 37-13)= 34 pts.
Captain Crunch- San Francisco (W 34-24)= 20 pts.
cokeboy99- Seattle (L10-17)= (7)pts.
OneAndDone- Detroit (L 20-23)= (3)pts.
angerisagift- Cleveland (L 13-24)= (11)pts.

Here are the current standings;

MOJO -                             325+ 20= 345 pts.
lightning36-                         333- 7= 326 pts.
TwoMinuteWarning-        306+ 20= 326 pts.
Full House538-                   281+34= 315 pts.
Coach-                                317- 16= 301 pts.
OneAndDone                       304- 3= 301 pts.
angerisagift-                       300- 11= 289 pts.
Vegas Vic-                        246+ 34= 280 pts.
Captain Crunch-                 224+20= 244 pts.
Music City Momma-            177- 3= 174  pts.
cokeboy99-                           137- 7= 130 pts.

Thanks for playing.

Week 17 picks are due by Saturday at 6pm (CST). Only Sunday and Monday games are eligible.

Good luck!

Monday, December 23, 2013

Football Picks, December 24th

Only one game in town today.

$21 @ -105 on the OVER (65) Boise St./Oregon St.
Two good offenses, both averaging around 470 ypg against two sketchy defenses that are surrendering over 400 ypg. Could turn into a track meet.


Starting Bankroll         $2,000.00
Profit/Loss                     $63.50
Current Bankroll          $2,063.50

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at you own risk.

Good luck!

Hockey Picks, December 23rd

One game on a full NHL menu stands out.

$17 on St. Louis (-165) over Calgary
The Blues have outscored their opponents 11-1 in their last 2 outings. They are 24-11 this season, including a 10-6 road record. The Flames are home after a 5 game road trip in which they dropped their last 4. Overall they are 13-23 and a poor 6-10 on home ice. St. Louis won the only match up between the two this year.
Starting Bankroll                                $1,500.00
Profit/Loss                                           ($158.00)
Current Bankroll                                $1,342.00

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at your own risk.

Good luck!

Sunday, December 22, 2013

Football Picks, December 23rd

One bowl game on the schedule tonight.

$11 @ -105 on the OVER (62) East Carolina/Ohio
The Pirates are averaging 40 ppg this season. QB Shane Carden has thrown for 55 TD in the last two seasons. The Bobcats' Tyler Tettleton isn't far behind, tossing 66 touchdowns in 3 seasons at the helm. Will the defenses be able to get enough pressure to keep the score down? I don't think so.
Starting Bankroll         $2,000.00
Profit/Loss                     $74.50
Current Bankroll          $2,074.50

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at you own risk.

Good luck!

Saturday, December 21, 2013

NFL Picks Contest- Week 16 Picks


Here are the picks for this week. Looks like there will be some movement in the standings.

lightning36- Seattle
TwoMinuteWarning- San Francisco
Full House- Denver
Music City Momma- Detroit
Coach- Kansas City
MOJO-  San Francisco
Vegas Vic- Denver
Captain Crunch- San Francisco
cokeboy99- Seattle
One&Done- Detroit
angerisagift- Cleveland

Good luck!!!

Hockey Picks, December 21st

Two games on the docket are worth risking a few bucks.

$38 on Pittsburgh (-215) over Calgary
The Penguins are playing their best hockey of the season, winning 6 straight and 11 of 12. They are tough at home, winning 16 of 19. The Flames have dropped 3 in a row and are 7-12 in enemy territory this season.
$15 on St. Louis (-150) over Edmonton
The Blues are 23-11 on the season and 9-6 on the highway. The Oilers have struggled this year, posting an 11-26 record and have lost 5 straight. They are 5-11 at home. 



Starting Bankroll                                $1,500.00
Profit/Loss                                           ($176.75)
Current Bankroll                                $1,323.25

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at your own risk.

Good luck!

Friday, December 20, 2013

Football Picks, December 21st

The bowl season gets underway with four of them on tap. All but one are worth a look.

$11 @ -105 on the OVER (65 1/2) Washington St./Colorado St.
Expect a lot of scoring between these two teams. CSU sophomore Kapri Bibbs rushed for 1,572 yards and 28 TD this season. The Cougars give up 184 YPG rushing, so Bibbs should have a big day. On the other side of the ball, WSU quarterback Connor Halliday averages 365 YPG in the air. The Rams surrender 265 YPG passing. Add it all up and it looks like the total points will be closer to 70 than 60.
$10 on Fresno St. (+230) over USC
Fresno QB Derek Carr threw for almost 5,000 yards and 48 TD this season, but is facing the #2 Pac 12 defense in USC, so it should be an interesting match up. FSU has a weak secondary, so the Trojans should be able to move the ball. USC will be playing under an interim head coach, so some adjustment will need to be made. I rate this game a toss up that will probably be decided by a late turnover, so at +230 the Bulldogs are the smart choice.
$11 on San Diego St (-110) over Buffalo
The Bulls only give up 22 PPG, which placed them 27th nationally. Not bad. The Aztecs are healthy again, getting back two O-linemen and a tight end. The Bulls are 1-5 ATS when playing against winning teams.
Starting Bankroll         $2,000.00
Profit/Loss                     $64.00
Current Bankroll          $2,064.00

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at you own risk.

Good luck!

NFL Picks Contest-Picks Due Tomorrow

Just a friendly reminder that your pick for the NFL Picks Contest is due by 6 pm (CST) Saturday evening. I have most of them, but if you haven't sent yours yet, it's time to get with it! Please e-mail me at nfl.picks@ymail com or leave a comment here with your pick.

Good luck!

Hockey Picks, December 20th

One game on the NHL menu is worth a peek.

$17 on Chicago (-170) over Vancouver
The Blackhawks are 5-1 in their last 6 games. The Canucks have dropped their last 2, but won their 7 previous. They caught a red eye flight out of Texas after getting spanked by the Stars last night. Now they run into the Blackhawks. Tough duty. Chicago is 12-6 at home this season while Vancouver is 10-9 on the highway.
Starting Bankroll                                $1,500.00
Profit/Loss                                           ($159.75)
Current Bankroll                                $1,340.25

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at your own risk.

Good luck!

Wednesday, December 18, 2013

Basketball Picks, December 18th

One pro game and one college game are worth a gander.

$11 @ -105 on Portland (E) over Minnesota
Portland has won 20 of 22 and are 12-2 on foreign soil this season. The T-Wolves are 5-9 in their last 14 games and are 1-4 ATS in their last 5 home games. The Blazers have beaten Minnesota 5 straight times.
$11 @ -105 on LSU (-3 1/2) over Texas Tech
The 6-2 Tigers are 2-2 against teams ranked in the top 100, including a 2 point loss at UMass. The Red Raiders are 7-3 overall, but 0-3 against top 100 teams, losing by an average of 18+ points.
Starting Bankroll                           $1,500.00
Profit/Loss                                      $74.50
Current Bankroll                           $1,574.50

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at your own risk.

Good luck!

Tuesday, December 17, 2013

Basketball Picks, December 17th

Several games look interesting on the court tonight.

$11 @ -105 on Oklahoma City (-2) over Denver
The Thunder is white hot, winning 14 of 15. The Nuggets are 3-3 in their last 6. OKC won the only match up this season.
$11 @ -105 on Portland (-4 1/2) over Cleveland
The Trailblazers have run off 19 wins in their last 21 games. The Cavs are 3-1 in their last 4.
$10 on Arkansas State (+130) over Toledo
The Red Wolves (I remember when they used to be the Indians) are a perfect 3-0 at home this season. The Rockets are a perfect 9-0 overall. They've won 4 of those on the highway, but all have been close, with their biggest win by 4 points. Defense and rebounding will be the name of the game for the Wolves if they are going to pull this one out.
Starting Bankroll                           $1,500.00
Profit/Loss                                      $85.00
Current Bankroll                           $1,585.00

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at your own risk.

Good luck!

Monday, December 16, 2013

NFL Picks Contest- Week 15 Results and Standings


Lightning evicts Coach from the penthouse and leads the pack for the first time.

Here are the Week 15 results and standings in the NFL Picks Contest.

lightning36- Carolina (W 30-20)= 20 pts.
TwoMinuteWarning- Carolina (W 30-20)= 20 pts.
Full House538- Seattle (W 23-0)= 33 pts.
Music City Momma- New Orleans (L 16-27)= (11)pts.
Coach-  New Orleans (L 16-27)= (11)pts.
MOJO-  Carolina (W 30-20)= 20 pts.
Vegas Vic- Carolina (W 30-20)= 20 pts.
Captain Crunch- Carolina (W 30-20)= 20 pts.
cokeboy99- Seattle (W 23-0)= 33 pts.
OneAndDone- Carolina (W 30-20)= 20 pts.
angerisagift- Dallas (L 36-37)= (1)pts.

Here are the current standings;

lightning36-                       313+ 20= 333 pts.
MOJO -                             305+ 20= 325 pts.
Coach-                                328- 11= 317 pts.
TwoMinuteWarning-         286+ 20= 306 pts.
OneAndDone                      284+20= 304 pts.
angerisagift-                          301- 1= 300 pts.
Full House538-                  248+ 33= 281 pts.
Vegas Vic-                          226+20= 246 pts.
Captain Crunch-                204+ 20= 224 pts.
Music City Momma-          188- 11= 177  pts.
cokeboy99-                        104+ 33= 137 pts.

Thanks for playing.

Week 16 picks are due by Saturday at 6pm (CST). Only Sunday and Monday games are eligible.

Good luck!

Basketball Picks, December 16th

One match up in the hoops world is worth a peek.

$11 @ -105 on Indiana (-10) over Detroit
The Pacers have won 11 of their last 13. The Pistons have been sputtering of late, losing 4 of 5. Indy won the only game between the two this season.
Starting Bankroll                           $1,500.00
Profit/Loss                                      $96.00
Current Bankroll                           $1,596.00

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at your own risk.

Good luck!

Hockey Picks, December 16th

One game in the Keystone State tonight looks good.

$30 on Pittsburgh (-150) over Toronto
The Penguins have won 8 of their last 9 and 7 straight on home ice. The Mapleleafs have dropped 8 of 9 on the highway and 8 of 11 overall. The teams have split 2 games this season.
Starting Bankroll                                $1,500.00
Profit/Loss                                           ($184.75)
Current Bankroll                                $1,315.25

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at your own risk.

Good luck!

Sunday, December 15, 2013

Vegas or Bust Poker League

We had all 10 league players seated around the poker table last Friday competing for two all expenses paid WSOP trips to Las Vegas next summer. This would be the eighth of 12 league tournaments. From left to right were Dealer Larry, Bobby Dee, Lil' Annie Okie, Ranger Rick, Big Daddy, J-Dawg, Philly Phanatic, Stamps, Tin Man, and yours truly, Lucki Duck.

Coming into the tourney I was in third place, trailing Philly by four points and needing to close the gap. One thing I couldn't afford was to lose any more ground. With only four tournaments left after this one, I needed to stay on his heels.

The first big hand I was involved in was with my main nemesis Philly. With blinds at $20-40 (starting stacks were $1500), I open raised to $100 from middle position with K-Q off. J-Dawg called from the small blind, as did Philly from the big. Both opponents checked a K-4-4 board and I pushed $150 chips out. J-Dawg folded, but Philly raised to $500. Since he hadn't 3 bet me pre flop, I didn't put him on A-K, but he loves playing baby aces and I was afraid he might have backed into trips with A-4. If I called, I figured I would be in the same position on the turn and river, and would probably end up with all my chips in the middle.

One thing I learned long ago is that you can't win a tournament in the early levels, but you can sure lose one. At this point in the tourney, I felt like it wasn't worth the risk, since an early exit would severely hurt my chances at one of the seats to the WSOP. I folded my king face up and Philly tabled K-T. Sometimes you're wrong and fold the best hand :(

Just a few hands later I got involved in another big pot, this time with Big Daddy. Raising from the cut off with A-Q, he was my only caller. We both checked a K-T-4 rainbow board, but I bet $150 when my Q paired on the turn. Big Daddy made the same play that Philly had and 3 bet me with a $500 raise. It was a tough call, but his body language didn't portray strength,  so I tossed in the calling chips. We both checked the river and my queens were good. Whew.

Big Daddy was eliminated a few hands later, followed by J-Dawg, who had his A-A cracked when Lil' Annie Okie flopped a set of sixes. Bobby Dee was next to fall on his sword, with Philly dropping next. His elimination was huge for me as it allowed me to make up some ground on my main opponent.

Tin-Man and Stamps were next to go, leaving just four of us at the table. The all-ins kept doubling up, and we were all still in it when we reached the top blind level ($500-1000) where we capped it. Usually we are done to heads-up play when the top level of blinds are reached, so this was pretty unusual.

Ranger Rick finally knocked out Dealer Larry, then also felted Annie and suddenly we were heads up with almost identical chip stacks.

I started getting some big hands and was able to take a 4-1 chip lead when the final hand was played. I completed from the SB with 8-5 of clubs and we saw a flop of 6c-9c-kd. Rick moved all-in with his top pair and I felt I had enough outs (flush draw + gutter) to justify a call. The turn was a blank, but the river was a 7, completing my straight and giving me a much needed tournament win.

Because of Philly's relatively early exit, I not only closed the gap, but actually moved into second place. Now all I have to do is hang on. Easy, right?

CLICK HERE for the current standings.

Till next time, win the flips.

NFL Picks Contest- Week 15 Picks


Here are the picks for this week. Carolina is the flavor of the week..

lightning36- Carolina
TwoMinuteWarning- Carolina
Grange95- ?
Full House- Seattle
Music City Momma- New Orleans
Coach- New Orleans
MOJO-  Carolina
Vegas Vic- Carolina
Captain Crunch- Carolina
cokeboy99- Seattle
One&Done- Carolina
angerisagift- Dallas

Good luck!!!

Saturday, December 14, 2013

Football Picks, December 15th

One game sticks out on the Week 15 menu.

$21 @ -105 on Arizona (-2 1/2) over Tennessee
The Cards have won 5 of 6 and are 4-1-1 ATS. The Titans have lost 7 of their last 9 and have dropped 4 straight at home.


Starting Bankroll         $2,000.00
Profit/Loss                     $44.00
Current Bankroll          $2,044.00

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at you own risk.

Good luck!

Basketball Picks, December 15th

One game on the Sunday NBA schedule looks good.

$11 on Portland (-2 1/2) over Detroit
The Trailblazers have won an amazing 18 of 20 and the Pistons have lost 3 of 4. Portland is 10-2 on foreign soil this season while Detroit is 6-7 at home. The Pistons have lost 4 straight ATS.


Starting Bankroll                           $1,500.00
Profit/Loss                                      $107.00
Current Bankroll                           $1,607.00

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at your own risk.

Good luck!

Hockey Picks, December 14th

There are a couple of games on the NHL schedule tonight that are worthwhile.

$16 on Chicago (-160) over Toronto
The Hawks have won 3 straight, scoring 19 goals, the Leafs have given up 14 goal in their last 3 games, losing them all.
$16 on St. Louis (-155) over Columbus
Both teams are playing well with St. Louis winning 3 of 4 and the Jackets 4 of 5. 



Starting Bankroll                                $1,500.00
Profit/Loss                                           ($179.50)
Current Bankroll                                $1,320.50

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at your own risk.

Good luck!

Friday, December 13, 2013

NFL Picks Contest-Picks Due Tomorrow

Just a friendly reminder that your pick for the NFL Picks Contest is due by 6 pm (CST) Saturday evening. I have most of them, but if you haven't sent yours yet, it's time to get with it! Please e-mail me at nfl.picks@ymail com or leave a comment here with your pick.

Good luck!

Hockey Picks, December 13th

Not much shakin' on the Friday NHL schedule, but there's one game worth a peek.

$17 on Pittsburgh (-170) over New Jersey
The Penguins have won 6 of their last 7. The Devils have lost 4 of 5. Let's hope the trend continues.
Starting Bankroll                                $1,500.00
Profit/Loss                                           ($189.50)
Current Bankroll                                $1,310.50

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at your own risk.

Good luck!

Thursday, December 12, 2013

Hockey Picks, December 12th

One game on the ice tonight that's worth a few bucks.

$48 on St. Louis (-230) over Toronto
The Blues are 12-4 on home ice and have won 7 of their last 10 overall. The Leafs have lost 7 of their last 8 on foreign soil and have dropped 7 of 9 overall.
Starting Bankroll                                $1,500.00
Profit/Loss                                           ($210.50)
Current Bankroll                                $1,290.50

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at your own risk.

Good luck!

Wednesday, December 11, 2013

Basketball Picks, December 11th

One game on the NBA schedule is worth a peek.

$11 @ -105 on Oklahoma City (-5) over memphis
The Thunder is hot, hot, hot, winning 1 of 12. They are 6-4 on the highway while the Grizzlies are 5-7 at home. Memphis has dropped 5 of their last 7 and are 1-4 ATS versus +.500 teams in their last 5 games.
Starting Bankroll                           $1,500.00
Profit/Loss                                      $96.50
Current Bankroll                           $1,596.50

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at your own risk.

Good luck!

Tuesday, December 10, 2013

Vegas or Bust Poker League

What, a poker post? Are you kidding me?


It's been a couple months since I've given an update on our little poker league. Since there's nothing worth betting in the sports world for the second consecutive day, I thought this would be a good opportunity to bring you up to speed.

Currently I'm positioned in third place, still in striking distance of winning one of the two WSOP trips to Las Vegas. In our October monthly tournament I made a couple of errors and finished a disappointing fifth out of 10 players. My biggest mistake was allowing the blinds to catch up with me and I lost my fold equity. I was ahead of two of the other players and tried to outlast them to move up a couple positions and win a few extra points. Unfortunately it backfired on me as they kept winning their all-in hands.

Last month I felt like I played well, but when the blinds started getting big I went card dead. Bad timing. I did manage to hang around long enough to pull off a fourth place finish.

Our league has 12 monthly tourneys and we have completed seven. Our December tournament is this Friday, so I'll be hoping to close the gap on Philly Phanatic and Lil' Annie Okie. I think Annie probably has one of the spots wrapped up unless she messes up badly during the last five tournaments. Philly is another matter. He plays aggressively and gets caught from time to time, as he did in the November game. If he goes out early again, that will open the door for me. We'll see.

This is our second year to have our league and it has really been a lot of fun. Of course, I won one of the Vegas trips in the first one, so my view may be skewed. However, we generally play for very small stakes (small potatoes), and I think our league players enjoy playing for a sizable prize once a month.

I'll be plugging away at the table Friday and will do a write up sometime next week. You can CLICK HERE for the latest standings if you're so inclined.

Wish me luck!

Till next time, win the flips.

Monday, December 9, 2013

NFL Picks Contest- Week 14 Results and Standings


Coach hangs on to his lead for a fourth week. Defending champ MOJO quietly moves into third place.

Here are the Week 14 results and standings in the NFL Picks Contest.

lightning36- Denver (W 51-28)= 33 pts..
TwoMinuteWarning- Denver (W 51-28)= 33 pts.
Grange95-  0 pts.
Full House538- New England (W 27-26)= 11 pts.
Music City Momma- New England (W 27-26)= 11 pts.
Coach-  New England (W 27-26)= 11 pts.
MOJO-  Arizona (W 30-10)= 30 pts.
Vegas Vic- New England (W 27-26)= 11 pts.
Captain Crunch- Denver (W 51-28)= 33 pts.
cokeboy99- New England (W 27-26)= 11 pts.
OneAndDone- Pittsburgh (L 28-34)= (6)
angerisagift- Cincinnati (W42-28)= 24 pts.

Here are the current standings;

Coach-                              317+ 11= 328 pts.
lightning36-                        280+ 33= 313 pts.
MOJO -                            275+ 30= 305 pts.
angerisagift-                       277+ 24= 301 pts.
TwoMinuteWarning-          253+ 33= 286 pts.
OneAndDone                       290-6= 284 pts.
Grange95-                          249+ 0= 249 pts.
Full House538-                 237+ 11= 248 pts.
Vegas Vic-                        215+ 11= 226 pts.
Captain Crunch-               171+ 33= 204 pts.
Music City Momma-        177+ 11= 188  pts.
cokeboy99-                       93+ 11= 104 pts.

Thanks for playing.

Week 15 picks are due by Saturday at 6pm (CST). Only Sunday and Monday games are eligible.

Good luck!

Sunday, December 8, 2013

NFL Picks Contest-Week 14 Picks


Here are the picks for this week. For the second straight week the Patriots are the favorite selection.

lightning36- Denver
TwoMinuteWarning- Denver
Grange95- ?
Full House- New England
Music City Momma- New England
Coach- New England
MOJO-  Arizona
Vegas Vic- New England
Captain Crunch- Denver
cokeboy99- New England
One&Done- Pittsburgh
angerisagift- Cincinnati

Good luck!!!

Saturday, December 7, 2013

Football Picks, December 8th

Three games on the NFL menu are worth a peek.

$11 @ -105 on Kansas City (-3) over Washington
The Chiefs (politically okay) are 9-3 overall and 4-1 on foreign soil. However, they've lost three straight, but 2 of those were against Denver. Meanwhile, the Redskins (not politically correct) are a dismal 3-9 and have lost 4 straight. They're also only 1-5 ATS in their last 6.
$11 @ -105 on Pittsburgh (-3 1/2) over Miami
The Dolphins have lost 6 of 9 after a 3-0 start. The Steelers are moving in the opposite direction, winning 3 of their last 4 and covered in all 4 games. 
$10 on NY Giants (+175) over San Diego
The Giants have won 5 of their last 6 and are 5-2 ATS in their last 7. The Chargers are 1-4 in their last 5 and also 1-4 ATS.




Starting Bankroll         $2,000.00
Profit/Loss                     $54.50
Current Bankroll          $2,054.50

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at you own risk.

Good luck!

Basketball Picks, December 7th

Dallas visits a blazing hot Portland team tonight.

$11 @ -105 on Portland (-5) over Dallas
The Trailblazers have won 4 straight and are tough to beat at home, losing only once in 10 games. They also own a 15-5 record ATS this season. The Mavs are 3-6 on foreign soil and are 1-5 ATS in their last 6.


Starting Bankroll                           $1,500.00
Profit/Loss                                      $107.50
Current Bankroll                           $1,607.50

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at your own risk.

Good luck!

Football Picks, December 7th

SEC Championship Game looks like an opportunity.

$10 on Missouri (+110) over Auburn
Mizzu's defense has stiffened over the last month, surrendering less than 13 ppg. Auburn is averaging 48 ppg in their last 6. Six of their wins have been by less than 8 points, with their last 2 in miracle fashion. The big question is how focused Auburn will be following an emotional win over the #1 team in the nation and their biggest rival last week.


Starting Bankroll         $2,000.00
Profit/Loss                     $64.50
Current Bankroll          $2,064.50

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at you own risk.

Good luck!

Friday, December 6, 2013

NFL Picks Contest- Picks Due Tomorrow

Just a friendly reminder that your pick for the NFL Picks Contest is due by 6 pm (CST) Saturday evening. I have most of them, but if you haven't sent yours yet, it's time to get with it! Please e-mail me at nfl.picks@ymail com or leave a comment here with your pick.

Good luck!

Thursday, December 5, 2013

Basketball Picks, December 5th

Trying to out do Rob.
The Heat visits a Rose-less Bulls team tonight.

$11 @ -105 on Miami (-4 1/2) over Chicago
The Heat has 10 of their last 11 while the Bulls have dropped 6 of 7. Miami has won 5 straight heads up. Chicago is 5-1 at home this season. Miami is 5-2 on the highway.
Starting Bankroll                           $1,500.00
Profit/Loss                                      $118.50
Current Bankroll                           $1,618.50

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at your own risk.

Good luck!

Hockey Picks, December 5th

One tilt on the ice tonight is worth a gander.

$50 on St. Louis (-200) over NY Islanders
The Blues are 11-3 at home this season while the Isles are 3-9 in enemy territory. St. Louis has won 7 of their last 10 and NY has dropped 7 straight. The boys from Missouri have won 3 of the last 4 match ups between the teams.
Starting Bankroll                                $1,500.00
Profit/Loss                                           ($235.50)
Current Bankroll                                $1,275.50

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at your own risk.

Good luck!

Wednesday, December 4, 2013

Basketball Picks, December 4th

A couple of games on the hardwood tonight look interesting.

$11 @ -105 on Denver (-3 1/2) over Cleveland
The Nuggets have won 7 straight and are 6-1 in their last 7 against the Cavs. Cleveland has dropped 5 of their last 6.
$10 on Ball St. (+150) over Valparaiso
The Cardinals are 2-4 this season, but play better at home as evidenced by their 2-1 record. The Crusaders are 5-4, but 0-3 on the road. This one's a toss-up with a nice overlay.
Starting Bankroll                           $1,500.00
Profit/Loss                                      $139.50
Current Bankroll                           $1,639.50

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at your own risk.

Good luck!

Tuesday, December 3, 2013

Hockey Picks, December 3rd

A couple games are worth a peek on the rink tonight.

$15 on San Jose (-150) over Toronto
The Sharks have been patrolling the waters well lately, winning 8 of 9 and 5 in a row. The Mapleleafs have dropped 4 straight and 5 of their last 6. 
$21 on Chicago (-210) over Dallas
The Blackhawks have won 6 straight and have also beaten the Stars 6 in a row. Dallas has struggled lately, posting a 1-4 record in their last 5 games.
Starting Bankroll                                $1,500.00
Profit/Loss                                           ($224.50)
Current Bankroll                                $1,275.50

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at your own risk.

Good luck!