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Don't miss out on the NHL showdown between the Bruins and Blue Jackets. The game is starting at 7:00 ET on ESPN+, and it's hosted by the Blue Jackets at Nationwide Arena in Columbus, OH. Get ready to place your bets! The Bruins are favored by -1.5 in this Eastern conference contest against the Blue Jackets. The game's over/under currently sits at 6.5 goals.<h3>BOSTON BRUINS VS COLUMBUS BLUE JACKETS BETTING PICK</h3>The Pick: Columbus Blue Jackets +1.5This game will be played at Nationwide Arena at 7:00 ET on Friday, December 27th.<h3>WHY BET THE COLUMBUS BLUE JACKETS:</h3><ul><li>Despite being 1.5 goal underdogs, we predict the Blue Jackets to come out on top with a final score of 4-3.</li><li>We like the Blue Jackets on the moneyline (+135)</li><li>The Blue Jackets are also our pick on the spread at +1.5</li></ul><h3>Will Boston Come Through as Road Favorites?</h3>Boston improved to 19-13-4 with a 2-0 win over the Kraken. The Bruins were favored on the puck line and covered with the victory. The total was set at 6 goals, but the combined score of 2 fell well short of that number. 

Both of Boston’s goals came in the first period, starting with Justin Brazeau’s goal at 3:23. Charlie Coyle added another at 9:57, giving the Bruins all the scoring they needed.Boston’s offense got off to a quick start in their 2-0 win over Seattle, with Justin Brazeau netting his 5th goal of the season just 3:23 into the game. Charlie Coyle followed with his 2nd goal, which came on a power play at the 10:03 mark of the first period. The Bruins fired 33 shots on goal but were held scoreless after the first period. They recorded 16 giveaways and picked up 4 assists, including Brad Marchand’s 7th and Elias Lindholm’s 6th of the season.Defensively, the Bruins were rock solid in their last game, shutting out the Kraken 2-0. Jeremy Swayman made 23 saves with a perfect 100% save percentage. The Bruins' defense also contributed 5 takeaways and 15 hits.<h3>Can Columbus Lock in a Home Win?</h3>Columbus fell to 14-15-6 after a 7-2 loss to the Capitals. The Blue Jackets were underdogs on the puck line, and the total of 9 goals easily surpassed the pre-game line of 6.5. 

Defensively, the Blue Jackets struggled from the start, allowing 5 goals in the first period. Damon Severson and Kevin Labanc each scored for Columbus, but the Capitals kept the pressure on throughout the game.Columbus took 36 shots on goal but only managed to score twice in their 7-2 loss to Washington. Damon Severson netted his 4th goal of the season, while Kevin Labanc added his 2nd. The Blue Jackets were held scoreless in the first period before Severson got them on the board 49 seconds into the second. Columbus recorded 13 giveaways in the game. Sean Monahan earned his 5th assist on Labanc’s goal, and Zach Aston-Reese picked up his 2nd assist of the season.Columbus's defense struggled early, giving up five goals in the first period, including one just 56 seconds in. They allowed two more goals later in the game, one at 4:51 in the second period and another at 18:34 in the third. Goalie Daniil Tarasov made 15 saves with a 68.2% save percentage, while the Blue Jackets' defense recorded 10 takeaways and 17 hits.

Boston Bruins vs Columbus Blue Jackets Betting Pick & Prediction 12/27/24

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The 2021-22 NBA season continues Tuesday, November 30, with the highly-anticipated Pacific Division showdown at Footprint Center in Phoenix, Arizona, so we bring you the best Warriors vs. Suns betting pick and odds.&nbsp;



Golden State and Phoenix open their four-game regular-season series, as we’re about to see a couple of the hottest teams in the Association. The Suns are small 2.5-point home favorites on <a href="https://www.bangthebook.com/sportsbooks/bookmaker/">Bookmaker Sportsbook</a>, while the totals are listed at 221.0 points.



<h2>The Warriors beat LA for their seven consecutive W   </h2>



The Golden State Warriors (18-2; 15-4-1 ATS) are coming off a 105-90 road victory at the Los Angeles Clippers this past Sunday. It was their seventh win on the spin, and the Dubs have gone perfect against the spread during that stretch.



Stephen Curry led the way for the Warriors on Sunday, posting 33 points on 12-for-22 shooting from the field and 7-for-13 from downtown. He also had six assists, five rebounds, and a whopping six steals. The Dubs held the Clippers to 40.0% shooting from the field and just 18 assists, forcing 25 turnovers and allowing 36 points in the paint.



Curry is averaging 29.8 points and 7.1 assists per game over his last nine outings. The Warriors are scoring 113.7 points per 100 possessions (2nd in the NBA) on 47.9% shooting from the field (also 2nd) and 36.8% from beyond the 3-point line (4th). They lead the NBA in assists per 100 possessions (29.2).



<h2>The Suns easily outlasted Brooklyn to extend their ridiculous streak     </h2>



The Phoenix Suns (17-3; 11-9 ATS) are rolling on a 16-game winning streak following a 113-107 road victory at the Brooklyn Nets this past Saturday. They wrapped up a four-game road trip in style, dominating KD and the Nets for all 48 minutes and leading by as many as 22 points.



Devin Booker led the charge for Phoenix on Saturday, accounting for 30 points on 9-for-18 shooting from the field and 4-for-6 from beyond the arc. Chris Paul had 22 points, eight rebounds, and five assists, while Mikal Bridges added 13 points and seven steals.



The Suns own the fifth-highest offensive rating in the NBA, averaging 111.7 points per 100 possessions. They shoot 48.1% from the field (1st in the NBA) and 36.2% from beyond the 3-point line (8th) while handing out 26.1 assists per 100 possessions (3rd).



Trends:



Golden State:



<ul><li>13-1-1 ATS in the last 15 games overall</li><li>5-1 ATS in the last six games against the Pacific Division</li></ul>



Phoenix:



<ul><li>1-4 ATS in the last five games against the Western Conference&nbsp;</li></ul>



<h2 id="h-golden-state-warriors-vs-phoenix-suns-pick">Golden State Warriors vs. Phoenix Suns Pick</h2>



There’s no easy money in this game that could easily go either way. I’ve mentioned how good these two teams have been so far this season. The Warriors boast the best defensive rating in the league, allowing only 100.1 points per 100 possessions, while the Suns are third in the NBA with 104.2 points allowed per 100 possessions.



I’m expecting a tight battle down the stretch, so give me the Warriors as 4.5-point dogs. Golden State will have a problem slowing down the Suns’ frontcourt, but the visitors certainly have enough firepower to keep it close against the hottest team in the NBA.&nbsp;



Pick: Take Golden State Warriors +4.5 at -150&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;



The Total:



The totals are a tricky wager because both teams execute well on both sides of the ball while playing at a fast pace. The Warriors average 99.8 possessions per 48 minutes (6th in the NBA), while the Suns are registering 100.8 (4th).



Also, both teams defend the 3-point line well, so I’ll go with the under. The Suns will probably try to exploit the Warriors’ low-post defense and slow down the tempo a bit. The under has hit in eight of the previous nine encounters between Golden State and Phoenix.



Pick: Go under 221.0 points at -110&nbsp;

Golden State Warriors vs. Phoenix Suns Odds, Pick, Prediction 11/30/21

At 9:30 ET, the Utah Jazz (+225) will host the Houston Rockets (-282) in a Western Conference matchup. The Rockets are favored by 7.5 points, and the over/under line is set at 229.5.

Houston (37-35) is currently on a 10-game winning streak and is 11th in the Western Conference. The Jazz (29-44) have lost seven straight and are 12th in the West.<h3>HOUSTON ROCKETS VS UTAH JAZZ BETTING PICK</h3>The Pick: Utah Jazz +7.5This game will be played at Delta Center at 9:30 ET on Friday, March 29th.<h3>WHY BET THE UTAH JAZZ:</h3><ul><li>We have this one finishing with a projected score of 111-107 in favor of the Rockets.</li><li>Our projections have Jalen Green finishing with Jalen Green points, 5 rebounds and 3 assists.</li><li>From the field, we have the Rockets finishing with a field goal percentage of 44.0% and knocking down 12 threes.</li></ul><h3>Can The Rockets Secure a Win at Salt Lake City?</h3>The Rockets are favored by 7.5 points today against the Jazz and have a record of 22-5 as the favorite this season. As the favorite, they have won their last eight games straight up and have an ATS record of 19-8. On average, they have won by 10.3 points per game when favored.

Houston has an ATS record of 42-29 for the season and has covered the spread in seven straight games. On the road, they are 15-19 ATS compared to 27-10 ATS at home.

The Rockets' O/U record for the season is 34-38, and they have gone over the line in their last five games. On average, their games have finished with 227 points per game, which is higher than today's O/U line of 229.5.

In their last game, the Rockets beat the Thunder by a score of 132-126. The O/U line for that game was 226.5, and Houston covered the spread as 4.5-point underdogs.

This season, the Rockets are 37-35 overall and have won 10 straight games. In the Western Conference, they are currently in 11th place and are 3rd in the Southwest Division.On the season, the Rockets are scoring 114.4 points per game, which is 15th in the NBA. However, they are averaging just 112.1 points per game on the road compared to 116.7 at home.

When it comes to three-point shooting, Houston is 16th in the league with 12.5 made threes per game. Overall, they are shooting 35% from beyond the arc, which is 24th in the NBA.

So far, the Rockets are 26th in field goal percentage at 46%. In terms of pace, they are 13th in the league at 99.3 possessions per game.This season, the Rockets' defense is the 10th ranked defense in the NBA at 10th PPG. So far, they have held opposing offenses below the NBA scoring average in 56.9% of their games. When it comes to forced turnovers, the Rockets are forcing 12.3 per game, which is 12th in the league. They also come into the game sitting 24th in blocked shots at 4.6 per game.<h3>Do the Jazz Have What it Takes at Home?</h3>Today, the Jazz will look to end their seven-game losing streak as they host the Rockets. In their last game, the Jazz lost to the Spurs by a score of 118-111. Utah was favored by 4 points in that game.

This season, the Jazz have an ATS record of 37-36 and are 22-15 ATS at home. Their average scoring margin ATS at home is +2.7 points per game, and they have failed to cover the spread in their last four home games.

As the underdog, the Jazz are 25-29 ATS this season and have gone 16-38 straight-up. Today, they are 7.5-point underdogs and have gone 6-3 ATS as the underdog.

In Western Conference play, the Jazz are 14-30 and are currently in 12th place. Against the West, they are 15-14 compared to 14-30 against non-conference opponents. In their last 73 games, the average O/U line has been 233.4 points, and their games have averaged 237.3 points.In terms of pace, the Jazz are 8th in the league with 99.8 possessions per game. When it comes to scoring, Utah is 11th in the NBA at 116.5 points per game. At home, they are averaging 120.8 points per game, which is 6th in the league.

So far this season, the Jazz have scored below the NBA scoring average in 41.1% of their games. In terms of field goal percentage, they are 18th in the league at 46%. When it comes to three-point shooting, Utah is 13th in made threes per game but just 20th in three-point percentage.

In terms of free throws, the Jazz are 5th in the NBA with 18.8 made free throws per game. When it comes to assists, Utah is 10th in the league.Coming into the game, the Jazz will be looking to improve their defense, as they are currently giving up 120.8 points per game (28th). Inside the arc, the Jazz defense is giving up a shooting percentage of 54.9% and 39.6% from three-point territory.

Houston Rockets vs Utah Jazz Betting Pick & Prediction 3/29/24

The Lightning and Panthers are set to face off at 7:00 ET on ESPN+. The Panthers will host the game at Amerant Bank Arena in Sunrise, FL. The over/under for this Atlantic division contest is set at 6.5 goals, with the Panthers being favored by -1.5 at home against the Lightning.<h3>TAMPA BAY LIGHTNING VS FLORIDA PANTHERS BETTING PICK</h3>The Pick: Florida Panthers -1.5This game will be played at Amerant Bank Arena at 7:00 ET on Monday, December 23rd.<h3>WHY BET THE FLORIDA PANTHERS:</h3><ul><li>With the Panthers being favored by 1.5, our NHL analytics models has this one playing out 4-3 in favor of the Panthers.</li><li>Take the Panthers on the moneyline</li><li>On the spread, we like Lightning (+1.5)</li></ul><h3>Do the Lightning Have What it Takes in Sunrise?</h3>Tampa Bay fell to 18-11-2 after a 7-4 loss to the Jets. The Lightning initially led 2-0, but their defense faltered, allowing seven unanswered goals. Tampa Bay was the underdog on the puck line, and the total of 11 goals easily surpassed the pre-game line of 6.5. 

Four different players scored for the Lightning in this one. They held a 2-0 lead in the first period but couldn’t hold on. The game was tied 4-4 in the third before the Jets pulled away with three straight goals.Brandon Hagel opened the scoring for the Lightning with his 7th goal of the season, while Brayden Point followed with his 8th, which came on a power play. Mitchell Chaffee added his 4th goal, and Nikita Kucherov found the net for the 10th time this season. The Lightning took 30 shots on goal and recorded 8 giveaways. They finished with 4 assists in the 7-4 loss to Winnipeg.Defensively, the Lightning will need to regroup after allowing 7 goals to the Jets. Jonas Johansson made 27 saves with a save percentage of 84.4%. Tampa Bay's defense also recorded 6 takeaways and 16 hits. The Lightning were tied 4-4 in the 3rd period, but their defense gave up a goal at the 7:38 mark and two more late in the period, both empty-netters.<h3>Can the Panthers Grab a Win at Home?</h3>Florida improved to 22-11-2 with a 4-2 road win over the Stars. The Panthers covered the puck line as -1.5 goal favorites, and the total of 6.5 goals went under, with the teams combining for 6. 

Four different players scored for the Panthers, with A.J. Greer breaking a 2-2 tie at 2:32 in the third period. Sam Reinhart added an empty-net goal to secure the win.Carolina’s offense took 25 shots on goal in their 4-2 win over Dallas. A.J. Greer scored his first goal of the season in the third period, while Sam Reinhart added his 10th with an empty-netter. The Panthers had 16 giveaways and scored once on the power play. Carolina’s scoring was spread out, with four different players finding the net. They opened the scoring with Evan Rodrigues’ third goal of the season in the first period. Matthew Tkachuk added his third goal in the second period.Spencer Knight made 23 saves with a 92% save percentage, helping the Panthers secure a 4-2 victory over the Stars. Defensively, Florida recorded 8 takeaways and 22 hits. After allowing two goals in the second period, the Panthers' defense held firm in the third, not giving up another goal.

Tampa Bay Lightning vs Florida Panthers Betting Pick & Prediction 12/23/24

ESPN is handling the television broadcast for this week's IS4S Salute to Veterans Bowl, which features a matchup between the South Alabama Jaguars and Western Michigan Broncos. Kick-off is set for 9:00 ET from Cramton Bowl in Montgomery. Even though Western Michigan is considered the home team, the game is being played on a neutral site. The over/under line is at 59.5 points, and South Alabama is favored by -10 points. Both teams come into this game with a 6-6 record for the season.<h3>SOUTH ALABAMA JAGUARS VS WESTERN MICHIGAN BRONCOS BETTING PICK</h3>The Pick: South Alabama Jaguars -10This game will be played at Cramton Bowl at 9:00 ET on Saturday, December 14th.<h3>WHY BET THE SOUTH ALABAMA JAGUARS:</h3><ul><li>We have the South Alabama Jaguars winning this one by a score of 33 to 19</li><li>Not only do we have the South Alabama Jaguars winning straight-up, we have them covering the spread at -10</li><li>We see this game finishing below the line of 59.5 points</li></ul><h3>Will The South Alabama Jaguars Take Care Of Business As The Favorite?</h3>South Alabama enters Week 13 with a 6-6 record, going 3-3 on the road and 2-3 at home. They’ve been favored in seven of their 12 games, holding a 3-4 record as the favorite. As the underdog, they’ve gone 2-2 this season. The Jaguars have a +9.4 average scoring margin but are 4-7 against the spread. They’ve gone 2-5 ATS as the favorite and 2-2 as the underdog. South Alabama’s over/under record is 4-7, with their games averaging 60.1 points. Their average over/under line is 58.2 points, and this week’s line is set at 59.5 points.South Alabama’s offense is averaging 34.8 points per game, ranking 17th nationally. They are 28th in rushing, with 196.3 yards per game. Fluff Bothwell has 834 rushing yards, 13 touchdowns, and averages 7 yards per carry. Quarterback Gio Lopez has thrown for 2,557 yards and has a passer rating of 103. The Jaguars are 24th in completion percentage, completing 65% of their passes. Lopez has 18 touchdowns and five interceptions. Jamaal Pritchett leads the receivers with 1,126 yards and nine touchdowns on 91 catches.South Alabama's defense struggled in their recent game, allowing 45 points in a 45-38 loss to Texas State. They gave up 534 total yards, including 286 rushing yards and four rushing touchdowns, while also allowing 248 passing yards. Despite forcing two interceptions, the defense allowed 28 first downs. On the season, South Alabama is giving up 25.3 points per game. They rank 146th in the nation in passing yards allowed, surrendering 253.2 yards per game, with a 63.9% completion rate. Against the run, they are allowing 149 rushing yards per game.<h3>Will Home Field Advantage Help The Western Michigan Broncos Upset The South Alabama Jaguars?</h3>Western Michigan enters Week 13 with a 6-6 record, hosting South Alabama. They’ve gone 3-1 at home but are 2-5 on the road. As the favorite, the Broncos are 4-1, while they’ve gone 0-5 as the underdog this season. Their ATS record is 5-6, with a 3-1 mark at home. They’ve covered three of five games as the favorite, going 3-0 ATS at home in those matchups. Western Michigan’s over/under record stands at 6-5, with their games averaging 60.8 points. The average line has been 54.8 points, and this week’s total is set at 59.5 points.Western Michigan’s offense is averaging 29.4 points per game, placing them 42nd nationally, and they are ranked 61st in our offensive power rankings heading into week 1. Their rushing game is their strength, averaging 191.2 yards per game on 36.6 attempts. Jaden Nixon leads the ground attack with 876 yards, 12 touchdowns, and an average of 6 yards per carry. Quarterback Hayden Wolff has thrown for 2,212 yards with 17 touchdowns and 7 interceptions, giving him a passer rating of 99. The Broncos are 96th in passing attempts per game, averaging 186.1 yards through the air. Kenneth Womack leads the receivers with 456 yards and one touchdown.Western Michigan's defense has struggled this season, allowing an average of 31.4 points per game. They rank 141st nationally in rushing yards allowed, giving up 188.3 yards per game on the ground. Opposing quarterbacks have posted a 95.9 passer rating and averaged 218.6 passing yards per game against the Broncos.In their recent game, Western Michigan's defense gave up 18 points but held Eastern Michigan to just 91 passing yards, while allowing 203 rushing yards. They also forced one interception in the game.

South Alabama Jaguars vs Western Michigan Broncos Betting Pick & Prediction IS4S Salute to Veterans Bowl

The Bobcats and Panthers are set to face off at 2:00 ET on ESPN+. The Panthers will host the game at GSU Convocation Center in Atlanta, GA. The over/under for this Sun Belt conference contest is set at 140 points, with Georgia State being favored by -5 at home against Texas State.<h3>TEXAS STATE BOBCATS VS GEORGIA STATE PANTHERS BETTING PICK</h3>The Pick: Georgia State Panthers -5This game will be played at GSU Convocation Center at 2:00 ET on Saturday, February 24th.<h3>WHY BET THE GEORGIA STATE PANTHERS:</h3><ul><li>We have this one finishing with a projected score of 77-69 in favor of the Panthers.</li><li>Not only will Georgia State pick up the win, but look for them to cover at -5.</li><li>The over/under is currently sitting at 140 points, and we like the over with a projected 146 points.</li></ul><h3>Taking a Look at the Bobcats Chances on the Road</h3>Heading into tonight's game against Georgia State, Texas State is a 5-point underdog and has an overall record of 11-17. The Bobcats have lost three straight games, and their record in Sun Belt Conference play is 4-11.

On the road this season, Texas State has gone 4-11, and their average scoring margin is -9.1 points per game. Over their last 10 road games, the Bobcats have gone 2-8.As the underdog, Texas State has struggled vs. the spread this season, going just 5-12. On the road, their ATS mark is 6-9. Over their last 10 games as the underdog, the Bobcats are just 2-8 vs. the spread.So far this season, the over/under record for Texas State games is 11-15. Today's line of 140 is higher than the average OU line in their games (137.4). Over their last three games, the OU record is 2-1 with an average scoring total of 146 points.Texas State is fresh off a strong offensive showing, putting up 76 points versus Georgia Southern. This output is higher than their season-average of 68.3 points per game. Offensively, the Bobcats have a season long field goal percentage of 43%, which is 273rd in the nation. In terms of three-pointers, they are 319th in percentage and 362nd in three-pointers made.So far, the Bobcats' defense is ranked 139th in the country at 70.9 points per contest. In their previous game vs. Georgia Southern, the Eagles finished with a field goal percentage of 52% and a total of 84 points vs. Texas State.<h3>Is a Home Win Possible for the Panthers?</h3>Georgia State will host Texas State as five-point favorites. The Panthers have a record of 13-14 this season, including a 7-8 mark in Sun Belt Conference play. They have won two games in a row, and their record at home is 6-3.

Georgia State's average scoring margin at home is +5.3 points per game, and they have gone 9-4 when favored this season. In their most recent game, they defeated Coastal Carolina by a final score of 72-71.Georgia State's ATS record for the season is 11-13-1, including a mark of 4-4-1 at home. Over their last 10 games as the favorite, the Panthers are 5-4-1 vs. the spread.Today's over/under line of 140 is lower than the average over/under line in Georgia State's games this season (149.3). The average scoring total in their last three games is 140 points, which is equal to today's over/under line.In their previous game, the Panthers' offense finished with 72 points, which is right in line with their current average of 76.9 points per contest. The team's top scorer is Lucas Taylor, who comes into today's matchup with an average of 13.9, while Toneari Lane also maintains a PPG average of 13 leading up to the game.Currently, the Panthers' defense holds the 231st rank in the nation, allowing 74.1 points per game. In terms of field goal percentage allowed, Georgia State's defense has allowed opponents to shoot 40.4% from the field, including a three-point shooting percentage allowed of 26.8% this season.

Texas State Bobcats vs Georgia State Panthers Betting Pick & Prediction 2/24/24

Looking to win big? The Red Wolves and Blazers face off at 6:00 ET on ESPN+. The Blazers are hosting the game at Bartow Arena in Birmingham, AL. The over/under for this non-conference contest is set at 159 points, with UAB being favored by -3.5 over Arkansas State.<h3>ARKANSAS STATE RED WOLVES VS UAB BLAZERS BETTING PICK</h3>The Pick: UAB Blazers -3.5This game will be played at Bartow Arena at 6:00 ET on Sunday, December 15th.<h3>WHY BET THE UAB BLAZERS:</h3><ul><li>We have this one finishing with a projected score of 80-67 in favor of the Blazers.</li><li>Not only will UAB pick up the win, but look for them to cover at -3.5.</li><li>The over/under is currently sitting at 159 points, and we like the under with a projected 147 points.</li></ul><h3>Are the Red Wolves Ready for a Win at Birmingham?</h3>Arkansas State improved to 7-3 on the season with an 83-79 win over UT Arlington on Thursday. The Red Wolves were -7.5 favorites at home but didn’t cover the spread. The total points for the game reached 162, surpassing the over/under line of 156.5. After trailing 39-35 at halftime, Arkansas State turned things around in the second half, outscoring the Mavericks 48-40 to secure the win.Arkansas State put up 83 points in their last game, despite shooting just 40.4% from the field and 26.1% from three-point range. Their effective field goal percentage was 45.6%, but they made up for it by hitting 31 of 42 free throws, good for 73.8%. The Red Wolves also grabbed 16 offensive rebounds and dished out 11 assists. Taryn Todd led the way with 23 points and 8 rebounds, while Jaden Wells added 19 points, hitting 5 threes. Diante Smith was efficient, shooting 75% overall and 60% from deep, finishing with 15 points in 22 minutes.Arkansas State's defense gave up 79 points while allowing the opposing team to shoot 40% from the field. They were 17/34 on two-point attempts, hitting 50% of their shots inside the arc. From three-point range, the opponents shot 6/23, making 26% of their attempts. Arkansas State also sent them to the free-throw line 42 times, where they converted 31 free throws at a 73% rate. The Red Wolves allowed 16 offensive rebounds.<h3>Can UAB Pull Off a Home Win?</h3><h3>UAB Blazers Recent Game/Games</h3> 

UAB improved to 4-5 on the season with a dominant 95-66 win over Prairie View A&M on Friday. The Blazers, who were -25 favorites, covered the spread in this home victory. 

Leading 39-29 at halftime, UAB pulled away by scoring 56 points in the 2nd half while allowing 37. The game’s total points of 161 fell short of the 172 O/U line.UAB's offense was firing on all cylinders, putting up 95 points with a 55.7% shooting performance from the field. Their effective field goal percentage stood at 63.9%, thanks in part to hitting 43.5% from beyond the arc, connecting on 10 of 23 attempts. Inside the arc, the Blazers shot 63.2%, making 24 of 38 two-point attempts, and they added 17 free throws on 70.8% shooting. UAB also dished out 24 assists and grabbed 14 offensive rebounds in the win.Despite UAB's defensive struggles, they managed to limit their opponent to 66 points. The Blazers allowed 34 field goals on 55% shooting, including 24 two-pointers at a 63% clip. From beyond the arc, UAB's defense gave up 10 threes on 23 attempts, a 43% rate. They also sent their opponent to the line 24 times, where they hit 17 free throws, shooting 70%. UAB allowed 14 offensive rebounds.

Arkansas State Red Wolves vs UAB Blazers NCAA Basketball Betting Pick & Prediction 12/15/24

Remember sitting around the TV with your family during the holidays, everyone cheering for their favorite football team? Those memorable moments of sports and family time are getting a new twist these days. More and more families are adding friendly betting pools to their holiday traditions, making every touchdown and field goal even more exciting.



In recent years, as sports betting has become legal in many states, family gatherings have started to look a little different. Instead of just wearing team jerseys and sharing snacks, relatives are now creating fun prediction games and friendly wagers around the big holiday games. Whether it's picking winners for the New Years bowl matchups or guessing which basketball team will score first on Christmas Day, these activities are adding extra spark to family celebrations.



These new betting traditions aren't just about winning or losing – they're changing how families experience sports together. From grandparents sharing their sports knowledge with grandkids to siblings competing for yearly bragging rights, holiday betting pools are creating fresh ways for families to bond over their favorite games. Let's explore how these modern traditions are bringing new excitement to holiday sports gatherings while keeping the spirit of family togetherness alive.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The History of Sports and Family Holiday Traditions</h2>



Sports have been bringing families together during the holidays for generations. Since the first Thanksgiving NFL game in 1934, when the Detroit Lions played the Chicago Bears, watching football has been as much a part of Turkey Day as stuffing and cranberry sauce. The same goes for New Year's Day, where families have gathered around the TV for decades to watch <a href="https://bangthebook.com/college-football">college football</a> bowl games while recovering from their midnight celebrations.



Long before smartphones and betting apps, families found creative ways to make holiday games more interesting. Uncle Bob might have run the family football pool, where everyone put in a dollar to guess the final score. Cousins would compete in season-long fantasy football leagues, leading to heated holiday dinner discussions about who made the better trades. These friendly competitions weren't really about money – they were about having fun and staying connected with family members, even those who lived far away.



These casual games and family pools laid the foundation for what we see today. While past generations might have used paper grids for <a href="https://www.nfl.com/super-bowl/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Super Bowl</a> squares or shared fantasy league updates through phone calls, these same activities have evolved with technology. The spirit of friendly competition that started with notebook paper and cash in envelopes has grown into something bigger, as more families embrace legal sports betting platforms to keep their holiday traditions alive – just with a modern twist.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://admin.bangthebook.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/betting-pools-timeline-1024x441.png" alt="" class="wp-image-53599"/></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Rise of Holiday Betting Pools</h2>



Family betting pools changed dramatically when sports betting became legal in many states. What used to be informal wagers written on napkins during holiday dinners has evolved into organized family competitions that everyone can enjoy safely and legally. Many families now create their own holiday betting leagues with clear rules and reasonable limits, making sure the focus stays on fun rather than serious gambling.



The holiday <a href="https://knupsports.com/calendars/sports-betting-calendar/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sports calendar</a> provides perfect opportunities for family betting pools. Thanksgiving brings three NFL games that span the entire day, giving families plenty of chances to predict scores, guess which player will score first, or create prop bets like...



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">
Will grandpa fall asleep before halftime?
</blockquote>



The NBA's Christmas Day games have become another holiday betting tradition, with five exciting matchups that keep families engaged from morning until night. New Year's Day rounds out the holiday season with college football bowl games that let families start the year with friendly competition.



Modern technology has made it easier than ever for families to keep their betting pools going, even when everyone can't be in the same room. Popular sports betting apps allow families to create private groups where they can set up pools, track everyone's picks, and watch the results unfold in real-time.



Cousins who moved across the country can still join in the family's Thanksgiving pool, and grandparents can participate in Christmas Day basketball predictions from their winter home in Florida. Some families even use video calls to announce their picks together, making distance feel a little less distant.



These new digital tools have also made it simpler to keep betting pools organized and fair. Instead of arguing over who actually picked which team or trying to remember everyone's predictions, apps keep perfect records of all bets and automatically calculate winners.



Many families use this technology to create season-long competitions, where holiday games count for extra points in their ongoing family standings. The person with the most points at the end of the year might win a special trophy or the honor of hosting next year's holiday gathering.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Why Betting Pools are Becoming a Holiday Staple?</h2>



Holiday betting pools have caught on because they give everyone a way to join in the fun, whether they know everything about sports or just show up for the snacks. Grandma might not know the quarterback's stats, but she can still win the family pool by picking teams based on her favorite uniform colors.



Kids too young for real betting can participate with monopoly money or points, learning about sports while joining in the family excitement. These pools create a level playing field where sports knowledge isn't the only path to victory.



The friendly competition of holiday betting pools does something special – it gives family members new ways to connect and share experiences. Instead of everyone staring at their phones during holiday gatherings, they're comparing picks, playfully trash-talking, and celebrating or groaning together as games unfold. Some families have started traditions like having the previous year's winner create special categories for the next holiday's pool, or letting the kids invent silly prop bets like "how many times will dad check his phone during the game?"



Even the most boring game becomes thrilling when family members have predictions riding on it. A fourth-quarter field goal in a blowout game suddenly becomes the most exciting moment of the day when it determines whether Aunt Sarah or Uncle Mike wins the family pool.



These shared moments of suspense create memories that families talk about for years to come. Stories like "Remember when Junior won the Thanksgiving pool because he was the only one who picked the Lions?" become part of family lore, retold every holiday season.



The beauty of these pools is that they add excitement without overshadowing what really matters – spending time together as a family. While everyone wants to win, the real victory is in the laughs shared, the traditions created, and the bonds strengthened.



Whether it's teaching younger generations about sports, giving far-flung family members a reason to stay connected throughout the holiday, or simply making that post-turkey football game a little more interesting, betting pools are adding a new dimension to family holiday traditions.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://admin.bangthebook.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/holiday-betting-pools-1024x585.webp" alt="Holiday Betting Pools" class="wp-image-53598"/></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Challenges and Controversies</h2>



Not every family jumps at the idea of adding betting pools to their holiday traditions. Some parents worry that even friendly wagers might send the wrong message to kids about gambling, while grandparents might remember the days when betting was strictly taboo.



These concerns often come from a good place – wanting to protect family members and keep holiday gatherings focused on togetherness rather than winning and losing. Some families also worry that betting pools, even small ones, might be a problem for relatives who have struggled with gambling in the past.



The good news is that many families have found ways to enjoy betting pools while keeping things safe and comfortable for everyone. The key is setting clear ground rules from the start. Successful family pools often stick to small stakes – maybe $1 per game or using point systems instead of money.



Some families create "fun currencies" like holiday tokens or special family monopoly money, keeping the excitement of competition while avoiding real gambling. They also make sure everyone knows it's perfectly fine to watch and cheer without placing bets, ensuring no one feels pressured to participate. 



When families focus on making memories rather than making money, holiday betting pools can be a positive addition to their traditions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Tips for Starting a Holiday Betting Pool</h2>



Want to start a holiday betting pool with your family? Here's how to create a fun and stress-free experience that everyone can enjoy.



Start with Something Simple Pick contests that don't require deep sports knowledge to participate. A straightforward "pick the winner" format for Thanksgiving football games lets everyone join in, even if they don't know a touchdown from a field goal. Create fun categories like "Which team's mascot would win in a dance contest?" or "Who will score first?" to keep things light and entertaining.



<ol class="wp-block-list">
<li>Set Family-Friendly Rules Keep stakes low -- maybe $5 for the whole day of games, or use a point system instead of money. Create clear age guidelines, like having kids under 18 use a points-only system while adults can opt for small-dollar bets. Write down all the rules and share them before the holiday so everyone knows what to expect. Remember to include a "no pressure" rule – anyone can watch and cheer without betting.</li>



<li>Make Technology Your Friend -- Take advantage of free apps and websites that handle all the tricky parts of running a pool. Apps like <a href="https://www.cbssports.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CBS Sports</a>, <a href="https://sports.yahoo.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Yahoo Sports</a>, or ESPN offer easy-to-use pool features where family members can make picks right from their phones. For a more personal touch, create a family group chat where everyone can share their picks and react to the games together.</li>



<li>Add Special Family Twists Create categories unique to your family -- maybe "Dad's Bold Prediction" or "Grandma's Gut Feeling" that earn bonus points. Consider making a special trophy or crown that gets passed around each holiday to the winner. Take plenty of pictures of the winner each year to create a fun family betting hall of fame.</li>



<li>Plan for Remote Relatives -- Include family members who can't be there in person by setting up video calls during key moments or creating a shared online space where everyone can post reactions. Make sure to pick apps or websites that work well for less tech-savvy relatives so nobody feels left out.</li>



<li>Keep Score in Style -- Create a fun way to track everyone's progress throughout the day. Maybe use a big poster board with everyone's names and picks, or create a digital scoreboard that you can share on the TV screen. Consider giving out small prizes for different categories like "Best Comeback" or "Most Creative Pick" to keep everyone engaged even if they're not winning overall.</li>
</ol>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Predictions for the Future of Holiday Sports Betting Traditions</h2>



The future of family holiday betting pools looks as high-tech as a new smartphone and as comfortable as your favorite holiday sweater. As artificial intelligence and apps get smarter, family pools might soon include features like automatic odds adjustments based on who's playing, or personalized prop bets created just for your family's interests.



Imagine an app that knows Uncle Steve always picks the underdog, or that Cousin Maria has a perfect record when it comes to predicting overtime games. These smart systems could make pools even more entertaining by creating custom categories that match each family's unique betting style.



Holiday betting pools are already breaking free from just sports predictions. Families are creating pools around everything from guessing which Thanksgiving dish will run out first to betting on how many times grandpa will tell his favorite holiday story.



Some families are running Oscar prediction pools during holiday gatherings, while others are making friendly wagers on holiday baking competitions or seasonal reality TV shows. This trend suggests that the future of holiday betting pools isn't just about touchdowns and three-pointers – it's about finding new ways to make any family activity more engaging.



Looking ahead, putting together the family betting pool might become as natural as hanging stockings or lighting the menorah. As younger generations who grew up with fantasy sports and betting apps become parents and grandparents themselves, these tech-savvy traditions will likely become even more ingrained in holiday celebrations.



But unlike many modern traditions that keep people glued to their phones, these betting pools seem to be doing something special – they're using technology to bring families closer together, creating shared experiences that bridge generational gaps and keep far-flung relatives connected during the holidays.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Conclusion to Holiday Betting Pools</h2>



Holiday traditions are like family recipes – they get better when you add your own special ingredients to the mix. Sports betting pools are becoming that extra dash of spice in many family gatherings, creating exciting new ways to enjoy time-honored traditions. From Thanksgiving football to Christmas Basketball to New Year's Day bowl games, these friendly competitions are writing a new chapter in the story of how families celebrate together.



The key to success isn't about how much money is won or lost – it's about creating moments that bring smiles to faces and give everyone something to look forward to each holiday season. Whether your family sticks to simple pick'em contests or creates elaborate prediction games, the real victory comes from the shared excitement, the playful trash talk, and the stories you'll tell for years to come.



The best holiday betting pools are like the best family traditions: they welcome everyone, create lasting memories, and give people reasons to stay connected, even when they're miles apart.



Do you participate in holiday betting pools? Whether you're a seasoned pool organizer or thinking about starting your first family competition, there's always room for new ideas and traditions. Share your experiences with other families – maybe your creative betting categories or fun twist on classic games will inspire others to start their own holiday traditions. After all, the best part about family traditions is that they're always growing and changing, just like families themselves.

How Holiday Betting Pools Are Changing Family Sports Traditions

Planning on watching today's Billikens and Bulldogs game? Catch the action at The Knapp Center in Des Moines, IA, as the Bulldogs hosts this showdown at 8:00 ET on ESPN+. The over/under goal line for this matchup is currently at 151.5 points, and the Bulldogs are favored to win at home against the Billikens.<h3>SAINT LOUIS BILLIKENS VS DRAKE BULLDOGS BETTING PICK</h3>The Pick: Saint Louis Billikens +15.5This game will be played at The Knapp Center at 8:00 ET on Wednesday, December 6th.<h3>WHY BET THE SAINT LOUIS BILLIKENS:</h3><ul><li>We have this one finishing with a projected score of 73-71 in favor of the Bulldogs.</li><li>Even though we have Drake winning straight-up, we like Saint Louis at +15.5.</li><li>The over/under is currently sitting at 151.5 points, and we like the under with a projected 144 points.</li></ul><h3>Can Saint Louis Pull Out the Win as Road Underdogs?</h3>After their recent 101-62 loss to Southern Illinois, the Billikens enter today's game with a 5-4 record. In road games, they have a 1-1 record and they are 3-3 at home this season. Saint Louis has an ATS record of 3-5, which is below .500. In games played on the road this season, Saint Louis is 1-1 vs. the spread, and in their last ten road games, they have a 4-6 ATS record.In nine games, Saint Louis comes in with an over/under mark of 5-3-0, with their games averaging 148.9 points per game. Looking at the Billikens' last three games, their over/under record is 2-1 with their games averaging 150 points per game.Against Southern Illinois, the Saint Louis had a tough time putting up points compared to their season average of 75.2 points per game. They scored 62 points and posted a field goal percentage of 43.1% in the game. Tim Dalger led the team in scoring, putting up 18 points. Additionally, Gibson Jimerson contributed 10 points for the Billikens.Currently, the Billikens' defense holds the 192nd rank in the nation, allowing 75.8 points per game. So far, the Saint Louis defense is giving up an average of 9.3 offensive rebounds per game and are turning teams over 10.2 times per game (294th).<h3>Can the Bulldogs Live Up to the Hype at Home?</h3>Today, with a record of 7-1, Drake will be playing against Saint Louis. On the road, the Bulldogs have a 2-1 record this season, while they are undefeated at home with a 4-0 record. As of now, Drake is sitting below .500 against the spread with a record of 3-4. However, in their last five games, they have gone 3-2 vs. the spread.Drake comes in with an over/under record of 5-2-0 through eight games, with their games averaging a combined 148.9 points per game so far. When assessing the Bulldogs' performance in their last three games, their over/under record stands at 2-1, with their games averaging 142 points per game.The Drake offense is coming off a game where they scored 74 points against Missouri State. They posted a field goal percentage of 43.2% and connected on 6 threes. Offensively, the Bulldogs have a season long field goal percentage of 48%, which is 65th in the nation. In terms of three-pointers, they are 314th in percentage and 165th in three-pointers made.At this time, the Bulldogs' defense is positioned 116th in the country, permitting 69.8 points per game. In their previous game vs. Missouri State, the Bears finished with a field goal percentage of 43% and a total of 57 points vs. Drake.

Saint Louis Billikens vs Drake Bulldogs Betting Pick & Prediction 12/6/23

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