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By Dave Consolazio, November 24, 2005 10:00 am

Dave’s Dime
“Because Two Cents Just Isn’t Enough”

THE INTRO

Happy Thanksgiving everyone! Welcome to the special Thursday morning addition of the Dime, brought to you due to the Thanksgiving games that take place today. Interestingly enough, the better I get at picking winners, the more people start asking me to remove them from my list (2 this week). But thats okay; I know I still have about 3 – 7 loyal readers out there. Maybe its safe to actually start betting on my picks (God forbid)? Since getting the Zen book, I’m 48 – 35 – 3 (57.8 win %) and 16 – 9 – 2 money picks (64 win %). Last week, after starting off 4 – 6, I had a 5 – 1 stretch to salvage another winning week. In any case, enough praising myself – lets just get this over with so we can all get back to stuffing our faces with whatever food is within arms reach (after all, if we actually MOVED MORE THAN OUR ARMS to get to food, we’d be burning extra calories, and that wouldn’t be the American way)!

THE RECORD

Last Week
With the spread: 9 – 7 – 0 (.563)
Without the spread: 10 – 6 – 0 (.625)
$$Money Picks$$: 3 – 3 – 0 (.500)
^^Zen Picks^^: 2 – 1 – 0 (.666)

Season
With the spread: 82 – 74 – 4 (.526)
Without the spread: 99 – 61 – 0 (.619)
$$Money Picks$$: 18 – 16 – 3 (.530)
^^Zen Picks^^: 11 – 5 – 0 (.688)

LAST WEEK’S RECAP OF DAVE’S BRILLIANCE AND FOOLISHNESS
(Usually Brilliance?!?)

Arizona 38 2 – 7 (+10.0) @ St. Louis 28 4 – 5 (-10.0)
This is just stupid, and this is also why St. Louis can not be taken seriously.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: LOSS – St. Louis
ICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: LOSS – St. Louis

Carolina 3 7 – 2 (-2.5) @ Chicago 13 6 – 3 (+2.5)
A high powered defense with a low powered offense that doesnt get any credit from anyone but experts, despite massive winning streak… reminds me of a team from Baltimore a few years back…
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: LOSS – $Carolina
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: LOSS – Carolina

Detroit 7 4 – 5 (+8.0) @ Dallas 20 6 – 3 (-8.0)
“I don’t think there’s any question that Dallas is going to win. However, can they win by 8? Initially I was going to say no, but re-zoning in to my Zen training, I say that after Dallas got away with one and essentially stole the game last week, they will come home and put on a show for the home crowd, and actually earn this one.” – Huge Zen pick here, helped keep my morning within reason.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: WIN – ^Dallas
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: WIN – Dallas

Jacksonville 31 6 – 3 (-4.5) @ Tennessee 28 2 – 7 (+4.5)
Shouldn’t have been anywhere near this close, but to Jacksonville’s defense, a win is a win.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: LOSS – $Jacksonville
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: LOSS – Jacksonville

Miami 0 3 – 6 (+1.5) @ Cleveland 22 3 – 6 (-1.5)
“Saban is running a great program in Miami, he just doesn’t have the talent on his team to win too many games. Fortunately, you don’t need talent to beat the Browns.” – Clearly you do.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: LOSS – *Miami
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: LOSS – Miami

Oakland 16 3 – 6 (+5.0) @ Washington 13 5 – 4 (-5.0)
The one week I pick against my Raiders, they go out and beat a great team at home. They always find a way to torture me, but damn it, I still love em.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: LOSS – ^$Washington
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: LOSS – Washington

Philadelphia 17 4 – 5 (+7.0) @ N.Y. Giants 27 6 – 3 (-7.0)
“Both teams are coming of demoralizing losses, but theres a difference; New York is much better, and they are at home. They will take care of the Eagles.”
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: WIN – $N.Y. Giants
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: WIN – N.Y. Giants.

Pittsburgh 13 7 – 2 (-3.5) @ Baltimore 16 2 – 7 (+3.5)
This is why even the best pick at only around 60%. Credit me for not money picking it.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: LOSS – Pittsburgh
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: LOSS – Pittsburgh

Seattle 27 7 – 2 (-12.5) @ San Francisco 25 2 – 7 (+12.5)
San Fransisxo has been playing well lately, but don’t have the talent to back it up just yet.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: LOSS – Seattle
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: WIN – Seattle

Buffalo 10 4 – 5 (+9.5) @ San Diego 48 5 – 4 (-9.5)
“The league’s worst rushing defense VS. the league’s best running back. Reggie Bush’s incredible performance may be challenged in this one” – Actually, it was Brees’ turn to do the damage, but a massive win no less.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: WIN – $San Diego
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: WIN – San Diego

Indianapolis 45 9 – 0 (-4.0) @ Cincinnati 37 7 – 2 (+4.0)
“Could this game go Cinci’s way? Most definitely. They are at home, and have a great team. Still, Indianapolis has a better team, and I’m not sure I can pick against them this year until they falter.” – As good a game as anyone could have reasonably asked for.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: WIN – Indianapolis
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: WIN – Indianapolis

N.Y. Jets 0 2 – 7 (+12.5) @ Denver 27 7 – 2 (-12.5)
“And then theres the Jets, who I love, and the Broncos, who I hate. Does it matter? The Jets are on par with the Raiders this year (they have an excuse at least – they are injured), and the Broncos are near the tops in the league. The verdict? Another Jets pounding.” – Only regret here is that it wasn’t money.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: WIN – Denver
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: WIN – Denver

Kansas City 45 5 – 4 (-6.5) @ Houston 17 1 – 8 (+6.5)
After dropping a game to Buffalo last week and seeing their division rivals playing in easy games, the Chiefs NEED a win this week, and I think they can get one without a problem against awful Houston.” – Right again
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: WIN – $Kansas City
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: WIN – Kansas City

Minnesota 20 4 – 5 (+3.5) @ Green Bay 17 2 – 7 (-3.5)
Crucial win for the all of a sudden hot Vikings, and my week needed it big time (9 – 7 VS 8 – 8). Who cares about the
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: WIN – *Minnesota
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: LOSS – Green Bay

DAMN, I’M GOOD

New Orleans 17 2 – 7 (+10.0) @ New England 24 5 – 4 (-10.0)
Yes, New Orleans sucks pretty darn bad. That much has been established. They are on a 5 game losing streak, and now they are heading into the defending Super Bowl Champion’s stadium. If you can’t get pumped up for this, you might as well hang up the cleats now. I don’t think they will win, but I do say they play their hearts out this week.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: WIN – ^*New Orleans
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: WIN – New England
- A risky pick, and it paid off.

Tampa Bay 30 6 – 3 (+6.0) @ Atlanta 27 6 – 3 (-6.0)
My first instinct said that the Falcons would win, but upon further review, I don’t think they will. Tampa has the defense to contain them, and after coming off of a huge exhilarating win against Washington, I think the momentum is going to carry over into this one.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: WIN – *Tampa Bay
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: WIN – Tampa Bay
- A true upset pick, and a damn good one.

THE PICKS

* – Indicates Upset Pick
$ – Indicates Money Pick
^ – Indicates Zen Pick

Today’s Games

Atlanta 6 – 4 (-3.0) @ Detroit 4 – 6 (+3.0)
Sorry for getting the picks out late, but please trust me on this one. I had Atlanta picked, I swear. Coming off of a disappointing loss last week, Atlanta needed to have a huge game this week, and I picked them to do so. It would appear so far that they are doing so. I was actually going to make it a money pick, but that much I’ll hold off in due to having seen the score.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: Atlanta
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: Atlanta

Denver 8 – 2 (+2.0) @ Dallas 7 – 3 (-2.0)
This one, I will take the money pick on. While it is Dallas tradition to win on Thanksgiving, Denver is a very very good team this year, and Dallas is due for a letdown. Denver should win this one by about a touchdown.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: *$Denver
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: Denver

Rest O’ The Weekend

Carolina 7 – 3 (-4.0) @ Buffalo 4 – 6 (+4.0)
I have a gut feeling about Buffalo winning this game, but absolutely nothing in the stats allows me to justify picking them. So I’m going to go with the significantly better Carolina team in this one.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: Carolina
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: Carolina

Baltimore 3 – 7 (+9.0) @ Cincinnati 7 – 3 (-9.0)
This is a Zen pick through and through. Baltimore coming off an impressive win against Pittsburgh can certainly win WITH 9 points, right? Wrong. They are due for a let down, and Cincinnati will want to bounce back strong after last weeks emotional loss. At home, they take care of Baltimore without trouble.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: ^Cincinnati
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: Cincinnati

San Fransisco 2 – 8 (+7.0) @ Tennessee 2 – 8 (-7.0)
Over the last few weeks, SF has been playing wonderfully, but good play minus talent still equals losses. The Titans, however, are just as talentless. SF is hungrier, and I’ll take the TD spread as well as the straight up pick in this one.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: *San Fransisco
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: *San Fransisco

New England 6 – 4 (+3.0) @ Kansas City 6 – 4 (-3.0)
One of the few picks I’m confident with this week. The Patriots can not stop the Chiefs, thats pure and simple. While this game may very well be a shootout, I’m confident that KC will last just a bit longer than New England, and edge out the victory.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: $Kansas City
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: Kansas City

Cleveland 4 – 6 (+4.5) @ Minnesota 5 – 5 (-4.5)
Statistically, Cleveland is the favorite here. But that doesn’t matter. For whatever reason, the Vikings have just been winning every game they’ve been playing. Motivated my a bad division and super bowl champion QB Brad Johnson, the Vikes are hot, and Cleveland shouldn’t be able to slow them down.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: ^Minnesota
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: Minnesota

Chicago 7 – 3 (+3.0) @ Tampa Bay 7 – 3 (-3.0)
One of the biggest surprises of this season has been the Chicago Bears, who are now owners of a 6 game winning streak. Tampa Bay slipped up, but is now back on track with a 2 game winning streak. This should be a good game, but the Bears defense is just impenetrable right now, and I don’t see the Buccaneers finding a weakness.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: *Chicago
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: *Chicago

San Diego 6 – 4 (-3.0) @ Washington 5 – 5 (+3.0)
One of the main reasons why I’m so successful these days is because I’m not only looking at the numbers, but I’m looking at the emotions, too. Washington is coming off of a heartbreaking loss, and the Chargers are coming off of a blowout victory. They are ripe for a letdown game in Washington. While SD is the much better team, upsets make the NFL, and this is going to be one of them.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: ^*Washington
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: *Washington

St. Louis 4 – 6 (-3.5) @ Houston 1 – 9 (+3.5)
Even without Bulger, St. Louis should definitely be good enough to beat Houston, who can’t beat much of anyone. Especially after losing to Arizona last week, St. Louis should be hungry and excited to face such a bad team this week.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: St. Louis
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: St. Louis

Miami 3 – 7 (+7.0) @ Oakland 4 – 6 (-7.0)
Miami had a terrible loss last week, and Oakland had an emotional win. That means, by Zen standards, that Miami should win the game Sunday. I don’t think they are talented enough to do so, but I do think they can keep it close. And the Raiders on a winning streak? How sweet that would be.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: ^*Miami
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: Oakland

Jacksonville 7 – 3 (-3.5) @ Arizona 3 – 7 (+3.5)
What is there to say? Jacksonville will probably win by like 2 and screw me over on the spread, but point is, they will win. And for 3.5 points, I’ll take my chances.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: Jacksonville
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: Jacksonville

Green Bay 2 – 8 (+4.0) @ Philidelphia 4 – 6 (-4.0)
Here are two bad, disappointing teams this year. While statistically this game favors the Packers, I think that the Eagles are long over due for a team win. Without McNabb and without Owens, I still feel that they can beat this weak GB teams and give their fans a rare something to cheer about.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: ^Philidelphia
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: Philidelphia

New York Giants 7 – 3 (+5.5) @ Seattle 8 – 2 (-5.5)
Out of nowhere, Seattle has the best record in the NFC. Many would argue, though, that the Giants are the team to beat. This game will say alot. I’m not giving up 5.5 points to a team as talented as the Giants, but I will say Seattle holds on to win it at home.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: *New York Giants
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: Seattle

New Orleans 2 – 8 (+2.5) @ New York Jets 2 – 8 (-2.5)
What an awful, awful game this will be. I had New Orleans typed in, but I’m gonna change it to the Jets. Both teams are bad, but the Jets are at home, and they have played a lot of really tough opponents of late. I think they will be thrilled at the chance to play a team at their level, and they can notch the win in this one.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: ^New York Jets
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: New York Jets

Pittsburgh 7 – 3 (+7.0) @ Indianapolis 10 – 0 (-7.0)
Bet on Indianapolis as often as you can. They have proven Zen wrong time and time again, and they just consistantly win football games by alot. Will they go undefeated? Maybe, maybe not. But I certainly don’t think this is the week they are in jeopardy.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: $Indianapolis
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: Indianapolis

KINGS HOCKEY

No news on this front; the Kings are still good. In fact, they are very good; They are winners of 5 of their last 6, and have gained 13 of a possible 16 points in their last 8 games (thats 6 wins, one loss, and one loss in overtime, which counts for a point).

Today, the Kings face off against Nashville, the team responsible for that one regulation loss stated above. And then, the weekend. Saturday, the Kings face Chicago, and I am going to be in attendence. Next, Monday, the Kings face the Red Wings, which I will also be in attendence for. Those of you keeping score know that the Kings are a perfect 6 for 6 with me there. Of course, Detroit has won their last EIGHT against the Kings. So which will break first, my streak, or Detroit’s? And can Chicago prevent me from heading into that game undefeated? Only time will tell.

Want my prediction?

End of Monday night: Consolazio 8 – 0, Detroit 8 – 1

Enjoy your Thanksgiving and the rest of your holiday weekend!

Love the Dime? Hate it? Please send feedback!
For past issues of the DIME, visit my website: Dave’s Dime

MY TEAMS RECORDS
OAKLAND RAIDERS: 4 – 6 – 0
USC TROJANS: 11 – 0 – 0
LOS ANGELES KINGS: 15 – 6 – 1

TROJAN OUTSCORING O-METER
Season:
TROJANS 534
OPPONENTS 237

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By Dave Consolazio, November 17, 2005 10:00 am

Dave’s Dime
“Because Two Cents Just Isn’t Enough”

THE INTRO

WHAT A GAME!

Colorado got off to a quick start to take a 1 – 0 lead, but the Kings bounced back by the end of the period, making it 2 – 1 Kings. Colorado scored to tie it up, but the game didn’t stay tied long, as Pavol Demitra scored the go ahead goal early in the 3rd. Once again, Colorado tied it up with about 10 minutes left in the game. Remarkably, Pavol Demitra scored not only the game winner but his 3rd goal of a night, a hat trick, with only 3 minutes left on the clock to bring the Kings an outstanding and exhilirating win at Staples.

Wait a second…

Yeah, that was a really damn good game. But I DIDN’T SEE IT. I was too busy watching the game that all of you THOUGHT I was going to comment on, and have probably stopped reading at this point because you believe the Dime has turned in to a hockey column. No no, there was a game that had a bit more than 7 points in it Saturday night.

The Trojan’s 50 – 42 victory over the Fresno State Bulldogs last night was an absolutely incredible football game. I haven’t checked the papers yet, but I have a good feeling on what they and many smart asses on campus are going to say. They are going to talk about how weak our defense is, how Texas should be able to exploit it, and how they will be able to contain our offense. Giving up 42 points, even to such a high powered offense, is inexcusable.

Do me a favor. Shut up.

If what was supposed to happen on paper happened on the field week in and week out, there wouldn’t be sports. No, there would just be the BCS; a number crunching machine that doesn’t take seemingly useless things like EMOTION into account. Winning 33 straight games is difficult. Winning 33 straight games is even more difficult when every week you face a team that is putting their heart and soul, their very best into beating you, because they want to be the team that beat the champions, the team that broke the streak. People are STILL talking about Cal. that was 3 years ago, and it wasn’t the 2nd longest winning streak in NCAA history, either. Some games are going to get crazy, but all that matters at the end of the day is one thing; the W. All of you self proclaimed experts can go on as long as you want about how Texas is going to beat us, but until this Trojan team loses a game, I just don’t see how anyone can possibly bet against them. They are just magical, for lack of a better word. They just win football games.

3 more comments on this week’s game, then I actually have to move on to the PROS, which this column is SUPPOSED to be about. First of all, what made this game so special was that it was at home. I personally think this is the 3rd best game of the season, not the 1st. The difference? #1 was in Notre Dame, #2 was in Arizona. Here at home, we have been treated to a steady onslaught of offensive and defensive domination. Not on this night. On this night we met a foe as strong as we were on both sides of the ball. And for the first time this season, it wasn’t because Leinart was off, or (enter excuses here). No, this was just good football. And this time, we weren’t barking at television sets; we were there. Not since the Cal game last year has the Coliseum been treated to such an awesome game. Secondly, Reggie Bush. 513 all purpose yards. Soon to be heisman trophy winner. Best player in college, etc. Nothing I say here can be anything you haven’t already read or thought up yourself. Except for one thing. I triumphantly yelled that I wanted to have Reggie Bush’s children at the game yesterday. This recieved applause and laughter from my fellow students. I wasn’t kidding though, I really do. The only problem is, I’m pretty sure that even with the sex change operation, I don’t have too good a shot, considering my competition is one of the best looking groups of girls I’ve ever encountered – the entire USC female student body. So, I guess I’ll stick to being a man for now, and continue to leave you all with traumitizing mental images.

Lastly, Fresno State, I’m sorry. I said you guys would be pushovers, and an easy win. I was wrong. I’m sorry. There, I said it.

On the pro side of things, I’ll make this short, as this is already an outrageously long intro. Last week, Donovan McNabb threw away more than his game and his season. He threw away my week while he was at it. What would have been 8 – 5 – 1, $ 3 – 1 (pretty) quickly became 7 – 6 – 1, $ 2 – 2 (poor) in Donavan’s throwing one of the most boneheaded interceptions I have ever seen. Not good, Donavan, VERY bad.

THE RECORD

Last Week
With the spread: 7 – 6 – 1 (.538)
Without the spread: 8 – 6 – 0 (.571)
$$Money Picks$$: 2 – 2 – 0 (.500)
^^Zen Picks^^: 0 – 0 – 0 (N/A)

Season
With the spread: 73 – 67 – 4 (.521)
Without the spread: 89 – 55 – 0 (.618)
$$Money Picks$$: 15 – 13 – 3 (.536)
^^Zen Picks^^: 9 – 4 – 0 (.692)

LAST WEEK’S RECAP OF DAVE’S BRILLIANCE AND FOOLISHNESS
(Usually Foolishness)

Arizona 21 2 – 6 (+4.0) @ Detroit 29 3 – 5 (-4.0)
Yeah, even the LIONS can beat the Cardinals.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: WIN – Detroit
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: WIN – Detroit

Baltimore 3 2 – 6 (+7.0) @ Jacksonville 30 5 – 3 (-7.0)
“As is often the case with Jacksonville, I see them most certainly winning the game, but not winning it by too much. I’ll bet on the Ravens to keep it within reason.” – Sorry, Jax, forgot just how awful Baltimore was.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: LOSS – *Baltimore
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: WIN – Jacksonville

Houston 17 1 – 7 (+17.5) @ Indianapolis 31 8 – 0 (-17.5)
“So, yes, I’m giving up that many points (despite my Zen of Gambling mentor telling me not to do so) and taking the Colts.” – Who do I think I am, betting against my Zen book?
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: LOSS – Indianapolis
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: WIN – Indianapolis

Kansas City 3 5 – 3 (+2.0) @ Buffalo 14 3 – 5 (-2.0)
Heres another botched Zen pick. If the spread doesn’t look right, your supposed to go with that team. Stupid me.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: LOSS – *$Kansas City
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: LOSS – *Kansas City

Minnesota 24 3 – 5 (+9.5) @ N.Y. Giants 21 6 – 2 (-9.5)
Not even the Zen book could have seen this one coming.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: LOSS – NY Giants
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: LOSS – NY Giants

Denver 31 6 – 2 (-2.0) @ Oakland 17 3 – 5 (+2.0)
Don’t need a zen book or a fortune telling book. Just look up moron loyal fan in the dictionary, and I’ll be there giving the huge thumbs up.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: LOSS – *Oakland
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: LOSS – Oakland

N.Y. Jets 3 2 – 6 (+9.0) @ Carolina 30 6 – 2 (-9.0)
“Carolina carries a 5 game winning streak into this game, and has become a legitimite NFC powerhouse. They are the real deal, and unfortunately for the Jets, I think they are going to be playing the role of punching bag this week.” – I’m good. Real good. But not “Damn I’m good”… this is the Jets after all, not rocket science.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: WIN – $Carolina
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: WIN – Carolina

Green Bay 33 1 – 7 (+9.0) @ Atlanta 25 6 – 2 (-9.0)
Very rare win with the spread lose without it here. But, I guess in the end, I make money off of this pick.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: WIN – *Green Bay
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: LOSS – Atlanta

St. Louis 16 4 – 4 (+6.5) @ Seattle 31 6 – 2 (-6.5)
“This game is always a good one, and so I’m not super sure on the 6.5 points. Still, you know my Seattle at home rule (they are 3 – 1 against the spread at home this year, so I’m not completely on my own here), so I’ll take em.” – Indeed.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: WIN – Seattle
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: WIN – Seattle

Washington 35 5 – 3 (+1.0) @ Tampa Bay 36 5 – 3 (-1.0)
Gruden goes for 2 and gets it to give the Bucs the 1 point lead, and screw me over. Normally, I’d whine, but I like Gruden and the Bucs, so instead I’ll just mutter to myself.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: TIE – *Washington
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: LOSS – *Washington

Cleveland 21 3 – 5 (+8.0) @ Pittsburgh 34 6 – 2 (-8.0)
“Pittsburgh is quietly doing what it does so well; winning football games. Everyone is so caught up in the Colts that no one seems to notice that despite injuries, the Steelers keep winning. Are they the team to beat anymore? Maybe not. But after this week, they are going to be 7 – 2.” – Sometimes I’m okay at this.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: WIN – Pittsburgh
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: WIN – Pittsburgh

Dallas 21 5 – 3 (+2.0) @ Philadelphia 20 4 – 4 (-2.0)
This was just stupid. I’m still cursing and throwing things a week later. Credit Dallas on their awesome season thus far, though.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: LOSS – $Philadelphia
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: LOSS – Philadelphia

DAMN, I’M GOOD

New England 23 4 – 4 (-3.0) @ Miami 16 3 – 5 (+3.0)
Despite downright awful play, the Patriots still find themselves winning their awful division. Fact of the matter is, Bilichick and Brady are proven winners, regardless of the circumstances. They won’t let the opportunity to get back over the .500 mark slip away here, and they will take down the Dolphins in Miami.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: WIN – $New England
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: WIN – New England
- There are few things I like more than being right. Food, girls, football, hockey, sleep. Scratch that, there are 5 things.

San Francisco 9 2 – 6 (+12.5) @ Chicago 17 5 – 3 (-12.5)
Chicago all of a sudden boasts a 4 game winning streak, and with one of the worst teams in the league on the menu this week, they should make it 5. However, I don’t think they are going to do so in monster fashion. SF has been playing relatively decent football, and I think they can keep it around 10 points.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: WIN – *San Francisco
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: WIN – Chicago
- Proud of this one, too.

THE PICKS

* – Indicates Upset Pick
$ – Indicates Money Pick
^ – Indicates Zen Pick

Arizona 2 – 7 (+10.0) @ St. Louis 4 – 5 (-10.0)
Arizonas second straight game on the road, that always takes a toll on teams. The Rams happen to be very good at home, and also happen to be coming off a demoralizing loss. The result? A big St. Louis victory.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: St. Louis
ICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: St. Louis

Carolina 7 – 2 (-2.5) @ Chicago 6 – 3 (+2.5)
Two of footballs hottest teams square off here, with Carolina carrying a 6 game winning streak and Chicago carrying one of 5 games. I do feel Carolina is a better team, as on top of their defense they have a very impressive offense. The Bears should not be able to keep up with them in this one.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: $Carolina
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: Carolina

Detroit 4 – 5 (+8.0) @ Dallas 6 – 3(-8.0)
I don’t think there’s any question that Dallas is going to win. However, can they win by 8? Initially I was going to say no, but re-zoning in to my Zen training, I say that after Dallas got away with one and essentially stole the game last week, they will come home and put on a show for the home crowd, and actually earn this one.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: ^Dallas
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: Dallas

Jacksonville 6 – 3 (-4.5) @ Tennessee 2 – 7 (+4.5)
Let me double check my records.

Yeah. Jacksonville is good and Tennessee sucks, alot.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: $Jacksonville
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: Jacksonville

Miami 3 – 6 (+1.5) @ Cleveland 3 – 6 (-1.5)
Saban is running a great program in Miami, he just doesn’t have the talent on his team to win too many games. Fortunately, you don’t need talent to beat the Browns.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: *Miami
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: Miami

New Orleans 2 – 7 (+10.0) @ New England (-10.0)
Yes, New Orleans sucks pretty darn bad. That much has been established. They are on a 5 game losing streak, and now they are heading into the defending Super Bowl Champion’s stadium. If you can’t get pumped up for this, you might as well hang up the cleats now. I don’t think they will win, but I do say they play their hearts out this week.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: ^*New Orleans
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: New England

Oakland 3 – 6 (+5.0) @ Washington 5 – 4 (-5.0)
I’m sorry, fellow Raider faithful. I still bleed silver and black, but after a devastating one point loss last week, the Redskins are going to be itching to just pound the crap out of the next team they play, and the Raiders are just perfect for pounding.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: ^$Washington
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: Washington

Philadelphia 4 – 5 (+7.0) @ N.Y. Giants 6 – 3 (-7.0)
I know I’m definitely getting a little too trigger happy with my money picks this week, but what can I say? Every game seems to fall right into a trend I like. It’s probably going to kill me, but oh well. Both teams are coming of demoralizing losses, but theres a difference; New York is much better, and they are at home. They will take care of the Eagles.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: $N.Y. Giants
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: N.Y. Giants.

Pittsburgh 7 – 2 (-3.5) @ Baltimore 2 – 7 (+3.5)
Pittsburgh = Great football, Baltimore = Awful football. My brother’s $20 down on the Raven’s to win the super bowl ticket is worth less then the paper it was printed on (so sad that the poor paper was tarnished). This isn’t a money pick because for some reason Pittsburgh will probably only win by a field goal.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: Pittsburgh
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: Pittsburgh

Tampa Bay 6 – 3 (+6.0) @ Atlanta 6 – 3 (-6.0)
My first instinct said that the Falcons would win, but upon further review, I don’t think they will. Tampa has the defense to contain them, and after coming off of a huge exhilarating win against Washington, I think the momentum is going to carry over into this one.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: *Tampa Bay
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: Tampa Bay

Seattle 7 – 2 (-12.5) @ San Francisco 2 – 7 (+12.5)
While surprise teams in the NFC like the Cowboys, Redskins, and Bears and disappointments like the Eagles and Vikings steal all the headlines, the Seahawks just keep on racking up the wins. Sometimes its nice to stay under the radar.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: Seattle
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: Seattle

Buffalo 4 – 5 (+9.5) @ San Diego 5 – 4 (-9.5)
The league’s worst rushing defense VS. the league’s best running back. Reggie Bush’s incredible performance may be challenged in this one
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: $San Diego
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: San Diego

Indianapolis 9 – 0 (-4.0) @ Cincinnati 7 – 2 (+4.0)
Could this game go Cinci’s way? Most definitely. They are at home, and have a great team. Still, Indianapolis has a better team, and I’m not sure I can pick against them this year until they falter.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: Indianapolis
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: Indianapolis

N.Y. Jets 2 – 7 (+12.5) @ Denver 7 – 2 (-12.5)
And then theres the Jets, who I love, and the Broncos, who I hate. Does it matter? The Jets are on par with the Raiders this year (they have an excuse at least – they are injured), and the Broncos are near the tops in the league. The verdict? Another Jets pounding.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: Denver
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: Denver

Kansas City 5 – 4 (-6.5) @ Houston 1 – 8 (+6.5)
After dropping a game to Buffalo last week and seeing their division rivals playing in easy games, the Chiefs NEED a win this week, and I think they can get one without a problem against awful Houston.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: $Kansas City
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: Kansas City

Minnesota 4 – 5 (+3.5) @ Green Bay 2 – 7 (-3.5)
I hate that this is the Monday game, because my week always seems to ride on this game, and I am completely torn. While 3.5 points is an awfully small window, I do feel that Green Bay is going to win, but barely – so I’m going to take the points in this one and keep my fingers crossed.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: *Minnesota
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: Green Bay

What a week! Pretty much every game is money or zen, and 2 of my division rivals are money picks and I’m picking against the Raiders… this is one week I wouldn’t mind being totally wrong. Also is it a coincidence that last week no Zen picks = mediocre picking? We will see if this week’s Zen can rejuvenate me

KINGS HOCKEY

When King’s hero goaltender Jason Labarbara left the team for an unknown period of time to deal with family matters, he left Mathieu Garon between the pipes, who came in to this season with huge expectations surrounding him, but had failed to deliver. He had 5 games; two against very poor teams, and three against three of the top teams in the western conference. And, for the first time this season, the Kings got what they paid for out of him. Outstanding in net over the span of 5 games, Garon helped the Kings win 4 of them. It seems now that the Kings can do no wrong in the goaltending department, as many teams in the league are struggling to find one quality goaltender, all of a sudden we find ourselves with two. Coupled with the amazing play of the Conroy – Frolov – Demitra line (all three netting hat tricks this week), and strong play from the entire team, the Kings are looking more and more like a true competitor every week. But I’m trying not to get carried away – we’ll take things one game at a time.

By the way, hop on the bandwagon. If you wait til the end of the season, I’m not going to be too happy.

Enjoy your Sunday and the rest of your week! Love the Dime? Hate it? Please send feedback! For past issues of the DIME, visit my website: Dave’s Dime

MY TEAMS RECORDS
OAKLAND RAIDERS: 3 – 6 – 0
USC TROJANS: 11 – 0 – 0
LOS ANGELES KINGS: 14 – 6 – 1

TROJAN OUTSCORING O-METER
Season:
TROJANS 534
OPPONENTS 237

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By Dave Consolazio, November 10, 2005 10:00 am

Dave’s Dime
“Because Two Cents Just Isn’t Enough”

THE INTRO

“Tons of money picks this week, I’m feeling extremely confident. The question is, is that a good thing?”

That was the comment I made on my picks last week, and the answer is yes, confidence is a good thing. While the age old adage that “girls love confidence” hasn’t panned out for me yet, it is pretty damn clear that the Football Gods do. 9 – 3 – 2 with the spread and 12 – 2 without it are the kinds of numbers that could potentially turn this column into a legitimate source for betting tips, and perhaps more relevantly, a pretty boring read (after all, me belittling my pathetic take on the world of football would lose its steam if I were actually good at picking winners).

But lets not get ahead of ourselves. The dictionary defines a fluke as follows;

fluke (flook) n.
1. A stroke of good luck.
2. A chance occurrence; an accident.

Which, of course, there is a very decent chance that last week was. Only time will tell. On an unrelated note, I now have memorized all of the NBA Championship teams to add on to my World Series and Super Bowl champion lists. Next time you see me, give me a year, and I’ll tell you who won each of those championships. Eerie, huh?

Well, the Trojans successfully exorcised and demons that may have been left over from 2 seasons ago in Cal this Saturday, but not in the dramatic fashion that many were expecting. I personally expected the game that we saw, but many thought we would see a nailbitter. As is often the case, “many” were wrong. I think its worth noting that the Trojans defense has overcome a number of key injuries and still had success, and also, many points that we give up are in the latter stages of games where our backups (of backups!) are in the game. I for one am not afraid of Texas, regardless of the fact that “many” say they will give us a good run.

Again, we find joy in another team’s loss yesterday, as Alabama finally lost in a tough game against LSU. This means that there are only two undefeated teams left; us and Texas. Assuming neither team loses, there will be no controversy this year ladies and gentleman; it will be the battle of two undefeateds to crown an undisputed national champion.

THE RECORD

Last Week
With the spread: 9 – 3 – 2 (.750)
Without the spread: 12 – 2 – 0 (.857)
$$Money Picks$$: 3 – 0 – 2 (1.000)
^^Zen Picks^^: 1 – 1 – 0 (.500)

Season
With the spread: 66 – 61 – 3 (.520)
Without the spread: 81 – 49 – 0 (.623)
$$Money Picks$$: 13 – 11 – 3 (.542)
^^Zen Picks^^: 9 – 4 – 0 (.692)

LAST WEEK’S RECAP OF DAVE’S BRILLIANCE AND FOOLISHNESS
(Usually Foolishness)

Atlanta 17 5 – 2 (-2.5) @ Miami 10 3 – 4 (+2.5)
“Atlanta is a much better team than Miami, simple as that. Even in Miami, the Dolphins should be getting more than 2.5 points. Maybe I’m wrong, but I think Atlanta winning by at least a field goal is most certainly in the cards.” – 1 down, 8 to come.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: WIN – $Atlanta
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: WIN – Atlanta

Carolina 34 5 – 2 (+1.0) @ Tampa Bay 14 5 – 2 (-1.0)
“Out of nowhere, the Tampa Bay Bucs have lost 2 of 3 (both to lousy teams) and the Panthers have won 4 straight. Still, Green Bay, Arizona, Detroit, and Minnesota aren’t exactly wins to write home about. But a win is a win. As much as I want to pick the Bucs, I don’t think QB Chris Sims has what it takes to exploit Carolina’s weakness (its passing defense), so Carolina should win this in a close one.” – Was wrong about it being close, but wasn’t wrong with my pick.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: WIN – ^*Carolina
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: WIN – *Carolina

Cincinnati 21 6 – 2 (-3.5) @ Baltimore 9 2 – 5 (+3.5)
“Cincinnati has the better offense and defense. Probably special teams, too, but I didn’t look up the stats on that. Cinci shouldnt have too big of an obstacle in tackling the spread this week.” – Nothing but smooth sailing this week
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: WIN – Cincinnati
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: WIN – Cincinnati

Detroit 14 3 – 4 (-1.5) @ Minnesota 27 2 – 5 (+1.5)
Actually, there were a few waves, and this one was the biggest. Detroit (especially Harrington) really is awful.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: LOSS – Detroit
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: LOSS – Detroit

Houston 14 1 – 6 (+11.0) @ Jacksonville 21 4 – 3 (-11.0)
“Jacksonville doesn’t blow teams out, and Houston has seemingly found some sort of a sync after starting the season off hideously. That being said, I’m going to go Zen here.” Bad idea, shoulda taken my research over a Zen philosophy (this time, anyways)
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: LOSS – ^Jacksonville
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: WIN – Jacksonville

San Diego 31 4 – 4 (-5.0) @ N.Y. Jets 26 2 – 5 (+5.0)
The Jets made a valient effort to come back, but all they ended up doing was foiling the spread.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: TIE – $San Diego
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: WIN – San Diego

Tennessee 14 2 – 6 (+3.0) @ Cleveland 20 2 – 5 (-3.0)
“It is awfully difficult to pick Cleveland, who has lost three straight including last week to the league’s worst team, but that is partially why I am picking them. They owe it to their home crowd to go out and have a big game, and I think they’ll do just that against an equally weak Tennessee.” – Was I on or what?
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: WIN – Cleveland
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: WIN – Cleveland

Chicago 20 4 – 3 (-3.0) @ New Orleans 17 2 – 6 (+3.0)
Another win for Chicago, but an unspectacular one.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: TIE – $Chicago
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: WIN – Chicago

N.Y. Giants 24 5 – 2 (-10.0) @ San Francisco 6 2 – 5 (+10.0)
San Fran held the Giants to a much lower score than I expected, but they still couldn’t win the game.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: WIN – $N.Y. Giants
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: WIN – N.Y. Giants

Seattle 33 5 – 2 (-4.5) @ Arizona 19 2 – 5 (+4.5)
This game proved to be as easy as it looked to pick, too.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: WIN – Seattle
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: WIN – Seattle

Pittsburgh 20 5 – 2 (-6.5) @ Green Bay 10 1 – 6 (+6.5)
My one bad pick of the week. Thought Green Bay had some magic left in the tank. Clearly, I was wrong.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: LOSS – *Green Bay
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: LOSS – *Green Bay

Philadelphia 10 4 – 3 (-1.0) @ Washington 17 4 – 3 (+1.0)
As predicted, Washington took care of business against the emotionally distraught Eagles.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: WIN – $*Washington
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: WIN – *Washington

DAMN, I’M GOOD

Oakland 23 3 – 4 (+4.5) @ Kansas City 27 4 – 3 (-4.5)
I’d really love to pick Oakland, but these two teams match up awfully well, and considering that the Cheifs have won in our last 5 meetings and are at home, I can’t pick against them. I do think however it will be a field goal that decides it, and will take the Raiders with the points.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: WIN – *Oakland
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: WIN – Kansas City
- Just a solid pick, but a very tough loss for my Raiders.

Indianapolis 40 7 – 0 (-3.0) @ New England 21 4 – 3 (+3.0)
New England always beats Indianapolis, they have their number. You know what else they had in past years? A better team. Thats not the case anymore – Indi is better on BOTH sides of the ball (yes, remarkably, the COLTS have a better defense than the Patriots. Must be awfully cold in Hell). It is long over due that they took some revenge on the Pats, and I think they will this week (Sorry Danielle).
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: WIN – $Indianapolis
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: WIN – Indianapolis
- Picking the Colts over the Patriots is a tough pick regardless of the rosters, so I’m proud of this one.

THE PICKS

* – Indicates Upset Pick
$ – Indicates Money Pick
^ – Indicates Zen Pick

Arizona 2 – 6 (+4.0) @ Detroit 3 – 5 (-4.0)
There is no question that Detroit sucks this year, but there is also no denying that Arizona sucks even more. In what is sure to be an absolutely fantastic game of football (…) I’ll reluctantly take the Lions.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: Detroit
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: Detroit

Baltimore 2 – 6 (+7.0) @ Jacksonville 5 – 3 (-7.0)
As is often the case with Jacksonville, I see them most certainly winning the game, but not winning it by too much. I’ll bet on the Ravens to keep it within reason.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: *Baltimore
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: Jacksonville

Houston 1 – 7 (+17.5) @ Indianapolis 8 – 0 (-17.5)
Nope, that isn’t a typo. I’ve double checked. SEVENTEEN AND A HALF POINTS. I guess this is what happens when you pair the league’s best and worst. Houston lost by 18 when these two teams met in Houston, and they were still hungry for their first win. With that out of the way, and in Indianapolis, I don’t see how they could possibly make this a game. So, yes, I’m giving up that many points (despite my Zen of Gambling mentor telling me not to do so) and taking the Colts.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: Indianapolis
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: Indianapolis

Kansas City 5 – 3 (+2.0) @ Buffalo 3 – 5 (-2.0)
Sure, Buffalo plays well at home – against bad teams. They have the worst rushing defense in the league, as is exposed week in and week out, and the Chiefs have Larry Johnson. I’ll give Buffalo the 2 points back, and take Kansas City in an easy one, thank you.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: *$Kansas City
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: *Kansas City

Minnesota 3 – 5 (+9.5) @ N.Y. Giants 6 – 2 (-9.5)
The Giants are on a roll, and their opposition has scored an average of a field goal each over their last two games. Unfortunately for the Vikings, I don’t expect this to be the team to stop their flow.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: NY Giants
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: NY Giants

New England 4 – 4 (-3.0) @ Miami 3 – 5 (+3.0)
Despite downright awful play, the Patriots still find themselves winning their awful division. Fact of the matter is, Bilichick and Brady are proven winners, regardless of the circumstances. They won’t let the opportunity to get back over the .500 mark slip away here, and they will take down the Dolphins in Miami.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: $New England
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: New England

San Francisco 2 – 6 (+12.5) @ Chicago 5 – 3 (-12.5)
Chicago all of a sudden boasts a 4 game winning streak, and with one of the worst teams in the league on the menu this week, they should make it 5. However, I don’t think they are going to do so in monster fashion. SF has been playing relatively decent football, and I think they can keep it around 10 points.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: *San Francisco
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: Chicago

Denver 6 – 2 (-2.0) @ Oakland 3 – 5 (+2.0)
As usual, the Raider game is tearing me up. My gut pick was the Raiders even though I know they are the weaker team. Then I decided that was stupid, checked the numbers, and picked Denver. But then I really analyzed the numbers and see a huge hole in Denver’s passing defense, exactly where the Raiders can exploit them, and took the Raiders. Then I figured I was probably just spinning the numbers for my team, and changed to the Broncos. THEN I considered some Zen factors like home field, rivalry, etc. and am completely torn, right down the middle, 50/50. And I have to pick between the team I love the most and the team I hate the most. Flip a coin.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: *Oakland
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: Oakland

N.Y. Jets 2 – 6 (+9.0) @ Carolina 6 – 2 (-9.0)
Carolina carries a 5 game winning streak into this game, and has become a legitimite NFC powerhouse. They are the real deal, and unfortunately for the Jets, I think they are going to be playing the role of punching bag this week.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: $Carolina
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: Carolina

Green Bay 1 – 7 (+9.0) @ Atlanta 6 – 2 (-9.0)
I love Atlanta, and am certainly not going to make the mistake of picking against them at home. Green Bay, as much as I am having trouble accepting it, really are as bad as their records. That being said, they are still playing their hardest, and I do think they can cover with 9 points to work with.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: *Green Bay
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: Atlanta

St. Louis 4 – 4 (+6.5) @ Seattle 6 – 2 (-6.5)
This game is always a good one, and so I’m not super sure on the 6.5 points. Still, you know my Seattle at home rule (they are 3 – 1 against the spread at home this year, so I’m not completely on my own here), so I’ll take em.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: Seattle
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: Seattle

Washington 5 – 3 (+1.0) @ Tampa Bay 5 – 3 (-1.0)
I wonder what Washington has to do to gain some respect from the book keepers? Underdogs against the reeling Buccaneers? I’m rooting for the Bucs as much as anyone in this game, but that isn’t going to disuade me. Just like they caught the Eagles at the right time, I think the Bucs, too, are ripe for the picking.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: *Washington
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: *Washington

Cleveland 3 – 5 (+8.0) @ Pittsburgh 6 – 2 (-8.0)
Pittsburgh is quietly doing what it does so well; winning football games. Everyone is so caught up in the Colts that no one seems to notice that despite injuries, the Steelers keep winning. Are they the team to beat anymore? Maybe not. But after this week, they are going to be 7 – 2.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: Pittsburgh
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: Pittsburgh

Dallas 5 – 3 (+2.0) @ Philadelphia 4 – 4 (-2.0)
Philadelphia has been the best team in the NFC for quite some time, and now they find themselves dead last in their surprisingly good division. The whole TO thing has diverted everyone’s attention away from the simple fact that even without him, they are still a solid team. Reid and McNabb will find a way, in front of their home crowd, to right the ship this week. I’m sure of it.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: $Philadelphia
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: Philadelphia

Half of the games have a TD or more spread! Talk about lopsided…

KINGS HOCKEY

For the second time this season, the Kings played the Red Wings tough, but still came up with the loss in overtime. Other then the Red Wings though, the Kings seem virtually unstoppable. Perhaps the most interesting stat I’ve seen in a while is that when the Kings give up the first goal of the game (which they have done 11 times) they have won an unprecidented 8 times! Usually, the team that gives up the first goal loses a bit over 50% of the time. For the Kings to have come back from an early one goal deficit 8 times speaks volumes not only of their resiliancy, but also of what an exciting league the new NHL is; no lead is safe.

Enjoy your Sunday and the rest of your week! Love the Dime? Hate it? Please send feedback! For past issues of the DIME, visit my website: Dave’s Dime

MY TEAMS RECORDS
OAKLAND RAIDERS: 3 – 5 – 0
USC TROJANS: 10 – 0 – 0
LOS ANGELES KINGS: 11 – 5 – 1

TROJAN OUTSCORING O-METER
Season:
TROJANS 484
OPPONENTS 195

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By Dave Consolazio, November 3, 2005 10:00 am

Dave’s Dime
“Because Two Cents Just Isn’t Enough”

THE INTRO

Last week marked the 3rd straight time that I took a 7 – 6 record into Monday night football, but for the first time in 3 weeks, the Monday night team did not cover the spread and I ended up with a 7 – 7 record. Not very good, but then, I suppose it’s better than having a losing record (I guess this goes under the tie is like kissing your sister category?). Maybe my off week had a little something to do from the fatigue of going crazy at both the Kings AND the Trojan’s game on the same day? Well, if thats the case, prepare for another mediocre week, as I did the same thing this Saturday. Exciting shootout win for the Kings, awesome blowout win for the Trojans. That coupled with a pair of false fire alarms going off at 1:30am and 4:30am requiring us here at Parkside to evacuate the building twice Friday night/Saturday morning could mean bad news for my picking abilities.

Then again, no one reads this for my “abilities”. Until I break the .500 barrier, I can’t refer to them as that. On the bright side, if you wanted professional insight, you’d have to pay top dollar. For mediocre insight, you get it for free!

Again not much new on the Trojan front, came out and did exactly what we had to do against Stanford, putting them away early. The bigger news is that previously undefeated UCLA got destroyed by petty Arizona, 52 – 14. The “Aww, I wanted them to be undefeated when they played us” thing does not fly with me. They have played down to the level of a lot of mediocre teams, and yet have recieved national attention with their high ranking due to their excellent ability to close out games. They deserved this loss. Trust me, one loss is not going to compromise the intensity of our game against them. They won’t be coming back from any 21 point deficits on a team as good as the Trojans, and if its even going to be interesting, they are going to have to play all four quarters, something they have not done very well at all.

Oh, and before I move on, let me point out that I do realize that we haven’t played all 4 quarters every game, either, and have gotten off to some slow starts ourselves. This is true, and has led to some frustration. The difference, however, is skill. The Trojans have a pro offense that is perfectly capible, once finding its rhythm, of scoring at will on anyone. The Bruins have an impressive offense, but they don’t have a team close to the calibur of the Trojans, and this is why they have played so many close games against teams that should result in blowouts. With V-Tech losing to Miami, it looks like its a 2 horse race between the Trojans and the Longhorns, and baring some major slip up by one of us, it should make for a damn good rosebowl.

THE RECORD

Last Week
With the spread: 7 – 7 – 0 (.500)
Without the spread: 9 – 5 – 0 (.643)
$$Money Picks$$: 1 – 2 – 0 (.333)
^^Zen Picks^^: 2 – 2 – 0 (.500)

Season
With the spread: 57 – 58 – 1 (.496)
Without the spread: 69 – 47 – 0 (.595)
$$Money Picks$$: 10 – 11 – 1 (.476)
^^Zen Picks^^: 8 – 3 – 0 (.727)

LAST WEEK’S RECAP OF DAVE’S BRILLIANCE AND FOOLISHNESS
(Usually Foolishness)

Arizona 13 2 – 4 (+7.5) @ Dallas 34 4 – 3 (-7.5)
“Now, comfortably back at home against a weak team, I think they are definitely going to cover the spread and take care of the Cardinals handily.” – Always nice to start off strong.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: WIN – Dallas
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: WIN – Dallas

Chicago 19 3 – 3 (+3.0) @ Detroit 13 3 – 3 (-3.0)
This is the only game of the week I wish I could take back. I knew Chicago would win, but went with Detroit because I like them better. Not very zen like.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: LOSS – Detroit
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: LOSS – Detroit

Jacksonville 21 4 – 2 (-3.0) @ St. Louis 24 3 – 4 (+3.0)
This game was stupid – Jacksonville is better than this, and they really disappointed me in this one.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: LOSS – Jacksonville
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: LOSS – Jacksonville

Minnesota 13 2 – 4 (+7.0) @ Carolina 38 4 – 2 (-7.0)
“WWZD? Or, what would ZEN do? Dave would pick the Vikings with the TD to cover the spread, coming off that awesome game last Sunday. But this isn’t Green Bay, and this isn’t at home. Carolina is a much better team than the Vikings, and whether I like them or not, they are probably going to lose this game convincingly.” – Hooray for Zen!
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: WIN – ^Carolina
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: WIN – Carolina

Oakland 34 2 – 4 (-2.0) @ Tennessee 25 2 – 5 (+2.0)
“Tennessee Titan’s Coach Jeff Fisher referred to the Raiders as the “Best 2 – 4 team I’ve seen in 10 years”. While I don’t have an elaborate enough knowledge of 2 – 4 teams to tell you whether or not that statement is true, I can tell you that the Raiders are a better team than the Titans. The passing games should be plentiful, and LaMont Jordon should have another strong week to start a (and I can’t believe I’m saying this) Raider’s winning streak.” – I’ve picked the Raiders as money picks 3 times, and am 3 – 0 in doing so. As a fan, should I just keep doing it even when I know its not right?
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: WIN – $Oakland
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: WIN – Oakland

Washington 0 4 – 2 (+3.0) @ N.Y. Giants 36 4 – 2 (-3.0)
I do not regret this pick, even if I did have the Giants typed in, I really did thing Washington would pull it off. The Giants played an outstanding game, I have no problem giving credit where it’s due.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: LOSS – ^*Washington
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: LOSS – *Washington

Kansas City 20 4 – 2 (+4.5) @ San Diego 28 3 – 4 (-4.5)
“San Diego is coming off an absolute heartbreaker in Philidelphia… LaDanian Tomlinson was rendered completely useless for the first time in ages. In front of the home crowd, San Diego has a ton to prove today. The numbers don’t matter – San Diego needs to just come out and pound the Chiefs. And I assume they will.” – 8 points isn’t a pounding, but they took the lead early and never lost it.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: WIN – ^San Diego
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: WIN – San Diego

Miami 21 2 – 4 (+2.0) @ New Orleans 6 2 – 5 (-2.0)
Rarely do I get a New Orleans pick right, but I guess they are getting easier; Pick against.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: WIN – *Miami
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: WIN – Miami

Philadelphia 21 4 – 2 (+3.0) @ Denver 49 5 – 2 (-3.0)
“I was getting ready to type Denver into the box, as they are at home and always win at home. But I stopped and looked at the numbers, and I do not see anything that suggests that the Broncos can stop the Eagles’ passing game. The Eagles have a great run defense, so they could very well hold Denver’s rushing yards down. This could be the beginning of the Broncos’ yearly slide, and I’m going to go against my original instinct and say that it will be.” – Don’t think the Zen book could forsee the Broncos jumping out to a 28 – 0 lead early in the game.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: LOSS – ^*Philidelphia
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: LOSS – Philidelphia

Tampa Bay 10 5 – 1 (-10.0) @ San Francisco 15 1 – 5 (+10.0)
These last three games make me really angry. I’m still in disbelief over this one. Are you kidding me?
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: LOSS – $Tampa Bay
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: LOSS – Tampa Bay

Buffalo 16 3 – 4 (+7.0) @ New England 21 3 – 3 (-7.0)
Heres another one. The Raiders just got done destroying these guys. This is their second straight road start, and your fresh off a buy WITH your emotional leader AT home. And you just squeak by?
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: LOSS – $New England
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: WIN – New England

Baltimore 19 2 – 4 (+8.5) @ Pittsburgh 20 4 – 2 (-8.5)
I wasn’t particularly thrilled with the spread here… still, Pittsburgh should not have had this much trouble with such a sub-par team.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: LOSS – Pittsburgh
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: WIN – Pittsburgh

DAMN, I’M GOOD

Cleveland 16 2 – 4 @ Houston 19 0 – 6 (Pick’em)
The numbers add up in Cleveland’s favor, but when your dealing with the worst team in the league, the numbers will always add up against them. This is Houston’s 3rd game at home in 4 weeks, and this crowd and city is just itching for a win. I think they are going to come out with the same intensity that they did against the Colts, and considering that the Browns are about 10 times weaker, actually pull off their first win here.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: WIN – Houston
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: WIN – Houston
- Any time you can pick a winless team to get its first victory successfully, you might as well take props for it, even if it wasn’t far too difficult.

Green Bay 14 1 – 5 (+7.5) @ Cincinnati 21 5 – 2 (-7.5)
Cincinnati is not going to be upset again – at least, I hope not. At home again, they should definitely be able to get the win against a reeling Green Bay team. I don’t think it is going to be a blowout, though – I will take the touchdown spread.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: WIN – *Green Bay
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: WIN – Cincinnati
- Short, sweet, and right; no complaints here.

THE PICKS

* – Indicates Upset Pick
$ – Indicates Money Pick
^ – Indicates Zen Pick

Atlanta 5 – 2 (-2.5) @ Miami 3 – 4 (+2.5)
Atlanta is a much better team than Miami, simple as that. Even in Miami, the Dolphins should be getting more than 2.5 points. Maybe I’m wrong, but I think Atlanta winning by at least a field goal is most certainly in the cards.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: $Atlanta
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: Atlanta

Carolina 5 – 2 (+1.0) @ Tampa Bay 5 – 2 (-1.0)
Out of nowhere, the Tampa Bay Bucs have lost 2 of 3 (both to lousy teams) and the Panthers have won 4 straight. Still, Green Bay, Arizona, Detroit, and Minnesota aren’t exactly wins to write home about. But a win is a win. As much as I want to pick the Bucs, I don’t think QB Chris Sims has what it takes to exploit Carolina’s weakness (its passing defense), so Carolina should win this in a close one.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: ^*Carolina
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: *Carolina

Cincinnati 6 – 2 (-3.5) @ Baltimore 2 – 5 (+3.5)
Cincinnati has the better offense and defense. Probably special teams, too, but I didn’t look up the stats on that. Cinci shouldnt have too big of an obstacle in tackling the spread this week.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: Cincinnati
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: Cincinnati

Detroit 3 – 4 (-1.5) @ Minnesota 2 – 5 (+1.5)
It seems that the only way to beat Detroit is with a good defense, as their 3 wins came against weak defensive teams. Good defense? Minnesota has far from that. I really hate to see them slide, but I think they will continue to do so.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: Detroit
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: Detroit

Houston 1 – 6 (+11.0) @ Jacksonville 4 – 3 (-11.0)
Jacksonville doesn’t blow teams out, and Houston has seemingly found some sort of a sync after starting the season off hideously. That being said, I’m going to go Zen here. There is no reason Houston should have to give up that many points coming off of 2 straight strong games, and Jacksonville is coming off of a pretty weak loss. Yet, 11 points it is. Houston seems like the easy pick. Vegas must be setting a trap. I need to avoid it.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: ^Jacksonville
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: Jacksonville

Oakland 3 – 4 (+4.5) @ Kansas City 4 – 3 (-4.5)
I’d really love to pick Oakland, but these two teams match up awfully well, and considering that the Cheifs have won in our last 5 meetings and are at home, I can’t pick against them. I do think however it will be a field goal that decides it, and will take the Raiders with the points.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: *Oakland
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: Kansas City

San Diego 4 – 4 (-5.0) @ N.Y. Jets 2 – 5 (+5.0)
This game I’d put the house on, but I’ve already lost you a house this year, so maybe I’m wrong. The injured Jets are far inferior to the Chargers, and on top of that, they were the ones that eliminated the Chargers from the playoffs this year. San Diego will be looking for revenge and really shouldn’t have too much trouble exacting it.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: $San Diego
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: San Diego

Tennessee 2 – 6 (+3.0) @ Cleveland 2 – 5 (-3.0)
It is awfully difficult to pick Cleveland, who has lost three straight including last week to the league’s worst team, but that is partially why I am picking them. They owe it to their home crowd to go out and have a big game, and I think they’ll do just that against an equally weak Tennessee.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: Cleveland
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: Cleveland

Chicago 4 – 3 (-3.0) @ New Orleans 2 – 6 (+3.0)
Chicago has made a believer out of me. With an offense that does just enough and a killer defense, they seem to find ways to win football games. Against a New Orleans team that seemingly loves to lose, they should get the win.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: $Chicago
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: Chicago

N.Y. Giants 5 – 2 (-10.0) @ San Francisco 2 – 5 (+10.0)
Lightning will not strike twice here. The Giants have a much more potent offense than the Bucs, and just shut out the Redskins who have an offense superior to that of the 49ers. The Giants will safely return San Fran to their being blown out ways.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: $N.Y. Giants
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: N.Y. Giants

Seattle 5 – 2 (-4.5) @ Arizona 2 – 5 (+4.5)
Only reason that this isn’t a money pick is because Seattle is never a sure thing on the road. I’ll tell you who is money though; Shawn Alexander. He has done exceptionally well against Arizona in the past, and this game should be no different.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: Seattle
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: Seattle

Pittsburgh 5 – 2 (-6.5) @ Green Bay 1 – 6 (+6.5)
Sometimes you just know it. There’s no rhyme or reason to it at all, so I won’t bother trying to justify it with any silly facts. This is one of those games. Green Bay takes the huge upset in front of their home crowd.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: *Green Bay
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: *Green Bay

Philadelphia 4 – 3 (-1.0) @ Washington 4 – 3 (+1.0)
Randy Moss or Terrell Owens? Owens goes to the team he WANTS to play for (thats right, he actually hand picked them) and goes all the way to the Super Bowl. However, he’s unhappy with his grossly large contract, so he asks for more money. He fights with the coach. He insults his QB in public. Now, he’s suspended indefinitely and will likely not play in an Eagles jersey again. I’ll take Moss – he may be a character but he isn’t as much of a cancer to a team as Owens is. Ironically, the only team I think that could deal with such an arrogant bastard as Owens IS the Raiders… but then, having the two of them on the same team would open up a whole new can of worms. Best recieving core and worst attitudes in NFL history.
There was a point to this tangent. With Owens’ suspension, I’d love to believe in the pick-me-up story of the team no longer divided overcoming their tough division rivals, but I can’t. Westbrook hasn’t been strong enough to carry the team, and McNabb doesn’t have any weapons anymore. Washington should take care of this one easily enough.
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: $*Washington
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: *Washington

Indianapolis (-3.0) @ New England (+3.0)
New England always beats Indianapolis, they have their number. You know what else they had in past years? A better team. Thats not the case anymore – Indi is better on BOTH sides of the ball (yes, remarkably, the COLTS have a better defense than the Patriots. Must be awfully cold in Hell). It is long over due that they took some revenge on the Pats, and I think they will this week (Sorry Danielle).
PICK WITH THE SPREAD: $Indianapolis
PICK WITHOUT THE SPREAD: Indianapolis

Tons of money picks this week, I’m feeling extremely confident. The question is, is that a good thing?

KINGS HOCKEY

This just in – the shootout is great for hockey. I know some traditionalists would disagree, and I was actually on their side. Until I got to experience one yesterday. The atmosphere in the building was like that of a playoff game. When the forward took the puck, the entire crowd held its breath. When our goalie made the stop, the place went crazy, people jumping and hugging and screaming. Hold breath again. This time, the Kings scored, and that elation repeated itself tenfold. We’re only through one round. Another LaBarbara save, more madness. A Kings goal by Roenick to win it, and the crowd was acting like we’d just won the Stanley Cup. Traditional? Not in the least bit. But I guarentee you that anyone at that game is going to be coming back for more, and thats exactly what the NHL needs right now.

Two side notes; 1) I don’t know whether Coach Andy Murray read the Dime, or if he figured it out himself, but Jason LaBarbara has played every minute of every game since my last column was written. 2) I have been to 6 games this year, and the Kings have won all 6. That’s 6 – 0. Without me there, the Kings are 1 – 3 at home. Coincidence? Perhaps, but I don’t think so! GET ME SOME SEASON SEATS!

Enjoy your Sunday and the rest of your week! Love it? Hate it? Please send feedback! For past issues of the DIME, visit my website: Dave’s Dime

MY TEAMS RECORDS
OAKLAND RAIDERS: 3 – 4 – 0
USC TROJANS: 9 – 0 – 0
LOS ANGELES KINGS: 10 – 5 – 0

TROJAN OUTSCORING O-METER
Season:
TROJANS 449
OPPONENTS 185