WTA Finals Day 3 Tennis Picks 2025 (Monday 3rd November)

A number of years ago, the ATP Tour tried to create Group formats for some of the tournaments they were using outside of the 500 and upper events.

It never really worked, but it has been a solid format for the end of year Championships.

There is still going to be a strange feeling for some of the players as they prepare to head back onto the court just a couple of days after losing opening matches- both Amanda Anisimova and Madison Keys have not had a lot of experience of playing at the WTA Finals and the two American players are looking to bounce back with a victory that will give them a chance of progressing.

It is the second match scheduled on the day, but first the World Number 2 Iga Swiatek takes on Elena Rybakina in what looks to be a really good match. Both players will have genuine ambitions of winning the title here and picking up late momentum that they hope will carry over to Melbourne in mid-January when the Australian Open gets underway.

Iga Swiatek - 1.5 games v Elena Rybakina: Two wins is usually good enough to earn a spot in the Semi Final at the end of year Championships, but that is not always the case.

However, the winner of this Group match will move into a very strong position after both Iga Swiatek and Elena Rybakina came through opening matches in straight sets.

Winning this one in straight sets would put that player into a really strong spot and there is a chance that the Semi Final spot will have been secured before they play again on Wednesday. That will be dependent on the other match in the Group, but the focus for both Iga Swiatek and Elena Rybakina has to be on winning this match and not having to worry too much about other results.

Iga Swiatek goes into this match as favourite, although both players really did impress in the way they were able to win opening matches here in Riyadh.

However, you have to believe the Pole is going to be feeling confident with this match up considering how well she has competed with Elena Rybakina in 2025. All four matches played between the two have ended in wins for Iga Swiatek and three of those wins have been on the hard courts, which is perhaps something of a surprise considering how effective Rybakina can be on this surface.

Both will be keen to impose themselves with the serve, but in the recent matches against one another, it is Iga Swiatek who has been able to get a more out of her delivery. The way she has protected the second serve has been key and allowed the fine margins to lean in her favour and it may be something that is evident when Iga Swiatek and Elena Rybakina face each other on Monday.

If Elena Rybakina can bring the form she was producing in her opening win into this match then she will be very dangerous.

The problem will be if Iga Swiatek reaches the level she was operating at in the opening win and that would give the World Number 2 the edge to win and cover the handicap mark set.

In the four wins over Rybakina this season, Iga Swiatek would have covered this line three times and she can do the same in Riyadh to all but secure a spot in the WTA Finals last four.

Amanda Anisimova - 3.5 games v Madison Keys: Missing time on the Tour after the US Open was going to make things difficult, but Madison Keys would have expected a lot more from herself in the opening Group match at the WTA Finals. The crushing loss to Iga Swiatek is a disappointment, but the good news is that the WTA Finals are played in a different format and all is not lost just yet.

The pressure is on Madison Keys to bounce back and another defeat is likely to spell elimination.

However, that is a situation that will be cleared up before this second match takes place- a win for Iga Swiatek over Elena Rybakina will mean Madison Keys cannot be definitively eliminated on Monday, although another straight sets loss is going to be hard to overcome.

The same fate awaits Amanda Anisimova after she struggled to stick with Rybakina in her opening Group match.

The difference for the younger of the two American players is that she needs a win from Elena Rybakina earlier in the day if Anisimova is to avoid definite elimination with a second defeat at her maiden WTA Finals event.

It would be a surprise if either player is thinking about another loss and still having ambitions to reach the Semi Final here in Riyadh so the focus has to be on recovering from opening losses. Both Amanda Anisimova and Madison Keys proved to be second best by a significant margin in those losses and so there is a lot of room for improvement, although the edge may have to be given to the former having had a decent Asian swing prior to this event beginning.

You also have to note that Madison Keys has lost all three matches played against top ten Ranked opponents on the hard courts since she won the Australian Open title at the very start of the year. Those defeats have all been pretty one-sided and now Madison Keys will have to take on Amanda Anisimova who has a 5-2 record against the top ten Ranked players she has faced on the hard courts in 2025.

The numbers show that Amanda Anisimova has been able to look after her second serve more effectively than Madison Keys, while she has also been a stronger return player.

Amanda Anisimova will have had a lot of respect for Madison Keys when growing onto the Tour and she will have noted the kind words that Keys had for after taking the time away to get on top of her mental health a couple of years ago. These two will have a lot of time for one another away from the court, and that should see the match played in good spirit.

The edge has to be with the favourite, who should have the stronger rhythm on the court and the match could get away from Madison Keys if she does drop the first set. It may be a situation where getting through to the WTA Semi Finals becomes a secondary ambition compared with preparing to recover and get ready to defend the Australian Open crown won this year and Amanda Anisimova can stay alive in the Group with a quality win.

MY PICKS: Iga Swiatek - 1.5 Games @ 1.85 William Hill (1 Unit)

Amanda Anisimova - 3.5 Games @ 1.87 Bet Victor (1 Unit)

WTA Finals: 1-3, - 2 Units (4 Units Staked, - 50% Yield)

NFL Week 9 Picks 2024 (Thursday 31st October-Monday 4th November)

Week 9 is on the board and that means we are halfway through the regular season and teams are beginning to be 'who we think they are'.

The trade deadline is fast approaching and so we are at a time in the season when teams have to decide whether they genuinely believe they can reach the Playoffs or not. Some will be thinking to next season and others will still feel that a positive run can move them into a position to play Football deep into January, although the internal thoughts of each team will become clearer at the trade deadline.

The 1972 Miami Dolphins are still waiting to crack the champagne for being the only unbeaten team in NFL history with the Kansas City Chiefs at 7-0, but surprisingly there are only six others teams in the AFC that have a winning record.

On the flip-side, only five teams in the NFC have a losing record as we move into the halfway mark of the season and so there is still a feeling that all is to play for as we approach November.

Eight weeks are in the books and seven of those have returned a profit after the 4-2 mark last week.

I had fortune- the Chicago Bears must still be wondering how they are were beaten by the Washington Commanders after one of the most ridiculous of Hail Mary's was completed. That ensured a 4-2 record for the Week 8 Picks rather than a 3-3 mark, but it is very unlikely that we are going to have that kind of luck every week.

Jordan Love's injury prevented Green Bay from covering when in a strong position against the Jacksonville Jaguars so maybe that bit of fortune was deserved. However, it will be all the better if selections made can produce winning marks without having to go through another Hail Mary play and keeping the winning mark going is the only ambition for these pages.

Thursday Night Football looks an interesting one in Week 9 before some big games to be played over the weekend as the clock turns to November. Picks will be added to this thread in the coming days, but there is a selection from the first game of Week 9 and that will open up this thread.

Houston Texans @ New York Jets Pick: Fans of the New York Jets (2-6) were expecting vast improvements now they finally could look at their Quarter Back with a much higher degree of success than some of the others that have tried to make that position their own. Last season could be excused after Aaron Rodgers play just four snaps, but even the most pessimistic of Jets fans could not have anticipated that the first half of the 2024 season will have gone as poorly as it has.

Even a Head Coaching change has not prevented the Jets from losing for a fifth time in a row and there is plenty of criticism to go around.

Some of the wounds have been self-inflicted- the Jets lost by a point to the Denver Broncos, missed multiple Field Goals in a 3 point loss to the Buffalo Bills and gave up a late Touchdown to lose to the New England Patriots in Week 8. That doesn't mean that things are going to turn around quickly, but the Jets will feel their record could look a lot stronger than it does currently.

On a short week, the Jets host the Houston Texans (6-2) who have taken a big grip of the AFC South having beaten the Indianapolis Colts for a second time this season.

That is the positive news, but the negative is that Stefon Diggs suffered a season-ending injury in that win and Houston will also be without Nico Collins for this game. CJ Stroud looks like one of the best young Quarter Backs making his way through the NFL, but it is no surprise that his passing numbers are down with the absences in the Receiver position.

It may be more of the same for Stroud in Week 9 against this New York Jets team that have a Secondary capable of making some big plays. They can perhaps chase CJ Stroud out of the pocket and force mistakes in the passing game, especially from lesser experienced Receivers, although it may make the game plan a little easier for the Houston Texans.

Joe Mixon has played well since arriving in Houston and he should be able to get something going on the ground against the Jets Defensive Line. That could be important in what may be a game that is about field position more than Touchdowns and will give Houston a chance.

However, the short week and the fact that Houston have taken complete control of their own Division may also be a factor to consider. This Texans team may be thinking about how they are going to replace Stefon Diggs rather than worrying about the struggling New York Jets and that could give Aaron Rodgers and company an opportunity.

Allan Lazard is missing for the Jets, but the overall Receiving corps look in decent shape, although there is a real pressure on Aaron Rodgers.

Much like the Texans, New York could lean on the Offensive Line and look to establish the run to put Rodgers in a good position to keep the chains moving. It will also be key to just slow down the Houston pass rush, which can be a highly disruptive force, and that may just give the Jets Quarter Back an opportunity to begin turning this season around.

Passing against this Secondary has not been easy and partly down the pass rush pressure that the Texans have put together, but that could be different for the Jets if they are running the ball well.

Even then, it is not easy to trust a New York team finding ways to lose games.

The spot looks a decent one for them and the injuries suffered by Houston may mean they may struggle on a short week and especially after taking control of their own Division. Aaron Rodgers is clearly not the player he once was, but he may be able to lean on the run and make enough plays to the likes of Davante Adams and Garrett Wilson to help the Jets come away with a victory on Thursday Night Football and keep post-season hopes alive.

Washington Commanders @ New York Giants Pick: Backing the Washington Commanders (6-2) in Week 8 proved to be hugely fortunate as they converted a Hail Mary with time ticking off the clock to beat the Chicago Bears. In reality the Bears blew the assignment, but the Commanders will not care one bit as they continue to lead the NFC East.

They have recorded one win over the New York Giants (2-6) in 2024 and the sweep will keep some momentum behind the Commanders before heading into a tough stretch of games. The likes of Pittsburgh, Philadelphia and Dallas are on deck so it is very important to avoid dropping a game to a struggling Divisional rival playing on a short week.

New York did not play badly on Monday Night Football and it was a competitive loss, which is an improvement on the previous two blowouts. Despite that, it was a loss and this is a team that is spiralling again and likely going to be making big changes once the 2024 season comes to a close.

Motivation can be found in trying to play spoiler for teams within the Division so the players should be ready, even on the short week.

It helps the struggling Giants Offensive unit that they are facing a Washington team besieged by injury on the Defensive side of the ball. Problems along the Defensive Line have been evident all season and the Commanders have not really gotten a grip with slowing down the run, which is hugely important for Daniel Jones and the Giants.

The Quarter Back has the ability to tuck the ball and make plays with his legs and the Giants have been able to find some solid gains on the ground even without Saquon Barkley. However, the problem has been when games get out of hand and they have to become a little one-dimensional with their play-calling, which has left Daniel Jones in a tough position to make plays down the field.

His Receiving options are back at full strength, but Jones has been constantly harassed when he has stepped back to allow routes to develop. In recent games, the Commanders have found a decent pass rush, which in turn has helped elevate the play of the Secondary and also forced turnovers that could be critical to the outcome of the game.

Having a dual-threat Quarter Back of their own has really propelled this Washington Offensive unit and Jayden Daniels will be bouncing after the fortune of last week. He is grounded enough to know the whole team will need to be better if they are going to achieve something special this season, but Daniels can lead the way on the ground to make things easier for himself in the passing game.

After what we have seen in recent games, the Giants Defensive Line may not be able to deal with Jayden Daniels, Brian Robinson and Austin Ekeler and it should mean Washington are playing in third and manageable spots for much of the afternoon. Jayden Daniels has shown his qualities as a passer too, but the reliance will be on the ground game to just ease the powerful New York pass rush and open things up against a Secondary that have actually played pretty well at times.

The big play will open up if Washington are pounding the rock as expected and it may lead to a solid win for the Commanders on the road.

Prior to the meeting in Week 2, Washington had not won any of four games against the Giants and has lost three in a row. They has over 100 more Offensive yards in the first meeting between the teams and the Commanders can back that up with a wider margin of victory than they achieved at home, while pushing the Giants that much further towards the top of the next Draft order.

Denver Broncos @ Baltimore Ravens Pick: Two AFC teams with the same record meet in Week 9 of the NFL season when the Baltimore Ravens (5-3) host the Denver Broncos (5-3). The Broncos have won two in a row, while the Baltimore Ravens had won five in a row before losing in Week 8 to the Cleveland Browns, although the Ravens are huge favourites to win this one.

For the second game in a row, the Ravens will be facing a tough Defensive unit and arguably one that is stronger than the Cleveland Browns unit they faced last time out.

Everything begins with the running game as far as Baltimore go Offensively, and there is no doubting the ability of both Lamar Jackson and Derrick Henry when it comes to pounding the rock. They have continued to pile up the yards on the ground, although they did surprisingly move away from those plays in the loss to the Cleveland Browns even when the game was competitive.

Moving the ball on the ground against the Denver Defensive Line is a different challenge and the battle on the Line of Scrimmage is going to be huge. In recent games, the Broncos have held opponents to less than 100 yards per game on the ground, although it has to be pointed out that Denver have faced nothing like the tandem that will be in front of them in Week 9.

It is important for Baltimore to run the ball if only to make sure Jackson is playing Quarter Back from third and manageable and to make sure the Denver pass rush is not breaking things up.

If he is given time, Lamar Jackson could make a few big plays into the Denver Secondary, but this Broncos team have to be confident in at least keeping things close on this side of the ball. This has been the game plan for Sean Payton and his team in compiling their winning record and they will not want rookie Bo Nix to have to have a huge day in a tough road environment.

Instead the key will be making sure Bo Nix knows he does not have to push the boat out in order to give his team the best chance to win. Keeping the scoreboard manageable is important to that end, especially as Denver may not be able to rely on their Offensive Line as much as they have in recent games.

Running the ball against the Baltimore Ravens is a huge challenge for any team and so Bo Nix may be forced to have to make a few big plays in the passing game to keep this one competitive. The Secondary is struggling with injuries so there is a chance that Nix can have some success, although the Quarter Back will have to be careful when it comes to turnovers.

If he can avoid those, Denver can keep this one closer than expected and avoid the blowout loss.

Opposing Baltimore proved to be a rough situation a couple of weeks ago when they crushed the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, but the Broncos Defensive unit perhaps have a better chance of stalling some drives. This should at least give Sean Payton a chance to create some Offensive plans to help his rookie Quarter Back make enough plays through the air to help the Broncos remain competitive throughout.

Dallas Cowboys @ Atlanta Falcons Pick: The loss out of the Bye Week at the San Francisco 49ers has dropped the Dallas Cowboys (3-5) behind the Philadelphia Eagles and Washington Commanders in the NFC East and a couple of games below 0.500 for the season. There is still time to turn things around, but the Cowboys need to change their fortunes pretty quickly and some of the players are showing their frustration to the media.

They will head to the Atlanta Falcons (5-3) who have taken control of the NFC South after sweeping the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Kirk Cousins has played well at times, but the Falcons will know that the veteran Quarter Back may need to improve if they are going to reach the post-season and then have a big impact in the Playoffs.

This should be a game in which the whole Falcons Offensive unit can find a very strong balance with their play-calling and that should keep drives moving forward. The Offensive Line should help establish the run against this struggling Cowboys Defensive Line and that should mean Kirk Cousins is able to drop back and make his plays to his big time Receivers.

Running the ball should also mean Cousins is playing from third and manageable spots, while keeping the pocket cleaner by needing less time for routes to develop. The Dallas Cowboys Secondary have had their own problems and Atlanta should be able to keep the chains moving and put up plenty of points.

However, there is every chance that Dallas can at least keep up for a while.

In previous seasons, Dallas might have dominated behind the Offensive Line, but running the ball has been much more challenging in 2024 and that has perhaps been a bigger reason the record is where it stands. Becoming one-dimensional Offensively is never a good thing and Dallas have perhaps been too reliant on the Dak Prescott arm.

The Cowboys could have a few more running lanes against this Falcons team, but they are not easy to trust to take advantage considering the issues. Ezekiel Elliot has been ruled out, which does not help, and so it will be up to Prescott to do what he can from the Quarter Back position.

Dak Prescott may benefit from throwing out of a cleaner pocket than he has been used to in recent starts, especially against this Falcons Secondary that has not made enough plays. Over the course of the season there has been better signs from the Atlanta Secondary, but this could become a shoot out and Dallas can certainly play their part.

Teams have been able to throw against Atlanta, but they have not been having it all of their own way- the Falcons have been capable of turning the ball over and Interceptions have been an issue for Dak Prescott, which is where this game could be won or lost.

If the Falcons can turn the ball over, those extra possessions may be key to determining this spread and Atlanta can do enough to cover. They are not that easy to trust with inconsistent performances through eight games, while Atlanta are just 2-3 at home.

However, this looks a good opportunity for the Falcons to just use their Offensive balance to eventually get the better of the Cowboys with a late Interception perhaps the difference on the day.

Miami Dolphins @ Buffalo Bills Pick: We are almost halfway through the season, but it is already feeling pretty comfortable to use a marker, rather than a pencil, when placing the Buffalo Bills (6-2) in the NFL Playoffs. The nearest rivals in the Division have just three wins and the Bills can keep their foot down on the other three teams by beating the Miami Dolphins (2-5) for the second time this season.

The first game will be remembered for the big concussion suffered by Tua Tagovailoa, one that had some thinking that the Quarter Back should think about retirement. Instead he returned last week after several weeks in recovery, but Tagovailoa was not able to inspire the Miami Dolphins as they were down by a Field Goal in the dying embers of the Fourth Quarter.

Time is running out already for the Miami Dolphins as far as the 2024 season is concerned, and that could lead to big changes in the off-season. One win could quickly turn things around, and that could be even bigger if the Dolphins can get the better of the Buffalo Bills, who have dominated this series in recent seasons.

Buffalo have won three in a row overall and they have beaten Miami five times in a row, even when the Dolphins looked on course to win the AFC East last year.

Josh Allen is an impressive Quarter Back and he should have an impact on this game with both his legs and arm, while the dominance of the Dolphins since arriving in Buffalo is very hard to ignore. He should be able to lean on this Offensive Line and Allen and James Cook are expected to pound the ball with plenty of success through the course of this game.

Time in the pocket will make things that much more comfortable for Josh Allen and he has a new weapon in Amari Cooper that could open things up for the other collection of Receivers in Buffalo. The Bills have looked strong in their three game winning run as they have beaten up on bad teams, and that may feel the case again in Week 9 even with Tua Tagovailoa back behind Center for Miami.

Having the Quarter Back that they started the season will help Miami, but they will have a test in finding the right balance in this one against a team that has regularly gotten the better of them. The Dolphins Offensive Line have been helping to establish the run in recent games, although this time they are up against a Buffalo team that have looked much more effective at clamping down on the run of late.

Winning at the Line of Scrimmage is huge for the Miami Dolphins if only to keep Tua Tagovailoa ahead of the chains and see if that the run can open up the passing lanes. The likes of Jayden Waddle and Tyreek Hill are capable of breaking open any possession, and there have been times where the Buffalo Secondary have just made a mistake or two.

This should give Miami an opportunity, but they will just have to be aware of the Buffalo pass rush and especially with the concerns around Tua Tagovailoa.

It does feel like a game in which Miami will have some success, but they have not enjoyed playing in Buffalo in recent times and this is going to be cold. The Dolphins will not appreciate the conditions and the last three games against Buffalo have ended in blowout losses to the Bills.

A backdoor cover is a danger with the Miami Offensive unit being led by a Quarter Back with another week of recovery and practice behind him. However, Tua Tagovailoa has not matched up well against Buffalo at his best, and Josh Allen has enjoyed playing Miami and has regularly helped his team pull clear against them.

This is a considerable spread considering the Offensive firepower the visitors bring, but the Bills are capable of securing a win and cover.

MY PICKS: New York Jets - 2 Points @ 1.91 William Hill (1 Unit)

Washington Commanders - 3.5 Points @ 1.91 Paddy Power (1 Unit)

Denver Broncos + 9.5 Points @ 1.91 Bet Victor (1 Unit)

Atlanta Falcons - 3 Points @ 1.91 Paddy Power (1 Unit)

Buffalo Bills - 6.5 Points @ 1.95 Bet Victor (1 Unit)

Week 8: 4-2, + 1.72 Units (6 Units Staked, + 28.67% Yield)

Week 7: 4-3, + 0.73 Units (7 Units Staked, + 10.43% Yield)

Week 6: 4-2, + 1.67 Units (6 Units Staked, + 27.83% Yield)

Week 5: 4-2, + 1.64 Units (6 Units Staked, + 27.33% Yield)

Week 4: 6-2, + 3.45 Units (8 Units Staked, + 43.13% Yield)

Week 3: 3-3, - 0.23 Units (6 Units Staked, - 3.83% Yield)

Week 2: 4-2, + 1.62 Units (6 Units Staked, + 27% Yield)

Week 1: 5-2, + 2.67 Units (7 Units Staked, + 38.14% Yield)

NFL Week 9 Picks 2019 (October 31-November 4)

I've had a tremendously busy week which included having to attend a wedding on Saturday which has meant little time to place my NFL Picks for Week 9.

Expect a much fuller thread next week, but you can see my selections below.


MY PICKS: Jacksonville Jaguars + 1 Point @ 1.91 William Hill (2 Units)
Minnesota Vikings - 3.5 Points @ 1.91 Bet Fred (2 Units)
Tennessee Titans + 3.5 Points @ 1.95 Bet Fred (2 Units)
Pittsburgh Steelers - 1 Point @ 1.95 Bet365 (2 Units)
Seattle Seahawks - 5 Points @ 1.91 Ladbrokes (2 Units)
Oakland Raiders - 2.5 Points @ 1.91 Paddy Power (2 Units)
Green Bay Packers - 3.5 Points @ 1.91 Bet Fred (2 Units)
Dallas Cowboys - 6.5 Points @ 1.91 Bet Victor (2 Units)

College Football Week 10 Picks 2018 (November 3rd)

After the early games had been concluded it looked like Week 9 was going to be a disappointing week for the College Football Picks, but a 4-0 run from the late afternoon kick offs ensure another winning week has been produced.

We enter the final month of the regular season and that means the first College Football Play Off Rankings were announced.

I don't think anyone was surprised by seeing Alabama, Clemson and Notre Dame in the top four, but it was very interesting to see the LSU Tigers in the Number 3 spot. While some moaned about that, I am of the opinion that the Tigers are playing to prove they are worthy of a Play Off spot or being eliminated this week when they face the Alabama Crimson Tide.

Either way the Play Offs don't begin tomorrow so I wouldn't be worrying too much about LSU's current Ranking going into Week 10.

More interesting is seeing the Michigan Wolverines in at Number 5 and Georgia Bulldogs at Number 6 ahead of the potential Big 12 Champion Oklahoma Sooners. There are so many twists and turns to come though that none of the Head Coaches will be overly concerned about their current Ranking and instead will be urging players to win out and see where they stand at the end of November and then after the Championship Games to be played in early December.


Michigan State Spartans @ Maryland Terrapins Pick: You have to describe the situation at Maryland as being a mess as first they reinstated Head Coach DJ Durkin amidst protests, but then decided to fire him one day later. Most of the players will be satisfied with the overall decision to get rid of Durkin as Head Coach who has been largely blamed for the death of Offensive Lineman Jordan McNair back in the summer.

It has not been ideal preparation for the Terrapins but this is a team who has been under the guidance of an interim Head Coach all season and already surpassed the number of wins earned in 2017. They are one win away from being Bowl eligible and Maryland will want to draw a line under the Durkin era by moving on immediately in this very big home game.

Michigan State Spartans are needing a lot of things to go their way if they are going to have a chance to play in the Big Ten Championship Game, but they are trying to avoid all distractions as they look to back up the win over the Purdue Boilermakers in Week 9. The Spartans are 3-2 in Big Ten play, but they can still match the 10 wins they earned in 2017 if they can win out, although Michigan State can't overlook Maryland and focus on the big game with Ohio State in Week 11.

The Spartans do have to make a big decision at Quarter Back with Brian Lewerke due back this week, but Ricky Lombardi performed above expectations in the win over the Boilermakers. It is a good problem for Mark Dantonio to have although this will be a tough game for whoever starts behind Center.

Much of the success Maryland have had this season is thanks to the strong Defensive performances they have put together, but take away the win over the Texas Longhorns in Week 1 and the Terrapins have really been a team who have beaten those they should and lost to those they shouldn't. The losses to the Temple Owls, Michigan Wolverines and Iowa Hawkeyes have all come in comfortable fashion too which makes the test of facing the Spartans a big one for Maryland.

It does feel that the key to the entire game is going to be on the Maryland Offensive Line and whether they can impose their run game on the Spartans Defensive Line. Over the course of the season Michigan State have been very strong at stopping the run, but they have faced a tough three games in a row and there is a suggestion they are wearing down up front while some of the players could want to keep something in the tank for the home game with the Buckeyes next week.

However the Spartans will feel clamping down on the run will at least put Maryland in a tough position to win this game. Michigan State are also getting healthier on the Offensive side of the ball and I think they are the superior team and can take advantage of any distractions that the Terrapins are dealing with.

The Terrapins did blow out Illinois in Week 9, but they are just 1-10 against the spread in their next game following a win by 20 plus points. Maryland are just 20-41 against the spread in their last sixty-one games following a win and with all the goings on in College Park means I will back the road favourites.


Nebraska Cornhuskers @ Ohio State Buckeyes Pick: You have to expect that any major College Football programme will be heading into the Play Offs if they remain unbeaten, but that is no longer an option for the Ohio State Buckeyes. They have had a couple of weeks to think about the defeat to the Purdue Boilermakers, but that won't hinder them from making the final four if Ohio State are able to win out.

Coming out of the Bye Week, Ohio State have the weakest of the four teams left on the schedule as they take on the Nebraska Cornhuskers. After this Ohio State face Michigan State and Maryland on the road before hosting the Michigan Wolverines who currently hold the Number 5 Ranking in the College Football Play Off picture and are the only team who have yet to lose a Big Ten Conference game.

The Buckeyes will be making a big mistake if they are looking towards that game at the end of November as they won't be doing anything but playing spoiler with one more loss before then.

They should not be slipping in this one despite Nebraska going 9-2 out of their Bye Week in recent years, but Scott Frost is still trying to get his ideas across to this team. It can't be ignored both of Nebraska's losses out of a Bye in that run have come against Ranked Big Ten opponents on the road and back to back wins has done little but paper over the obvious cracks.

First year Head Coaches can go through some trying moments and Frost will be hoping the back to back wins at least give his players some belief that big things will come if they pay attention to what he wants. The Cornhuskers need to win out if they are going to be Bowl eligible, but that looks a long shot considering they will be underdogs in three of their remaining four games.

Even reaching the four wins they earned in 2017 looks beyond Nebraska. They could have some Offensive success in this one with the balance they try and play with and now facing an Ohio State Defensive unit that has underachieved to this point.

Adrian Martinez has shown some growth at Quarter Back, but he has to show he can perform much better on a big stage after overseeing Nebraska being blown out by the Michigan Wolverines. That is going to be the test for the entire Nebraska team when they head to Columbus having been beaten by 46 points by the Wolverines.

I do think Nebraska will have more success on both sides of the ball in this one but I am not sure that will be enough to get within this point spread. Martinez and the Cornhuskers should make some good Offensive plays, but the Buckeyes have a Quarter Back in Dwayne Haskins Jr who has been throwing the ball very well having become the first player in Buckeyes history to have three consecutive 400 yard passing games.

The Nebraska Secondary have continued to struggle so I would expect Haskins Jr to have another strong day at Quarter Back. Nebraska have stiffened on the Defensive Line when it comes to clamping down on the run, but they may leave more space up front as they look to defend the pass and I think the Buckeyes move the chains with some consistency throughout this game.

Ohio State have covered in their last four games against Nebraska and the Buckeyes have a strong 26-11-1 record against the spread in their last thirty-eight games following a loss. The motivation should be high to remind the College Football Play Off Committee as to how good the Buckeyes and that means trying to produce a big win here and I do like Ohio State to win and cover this number.


Georgia Bulldogs @ Kentucky Wildcats Pick: There is still every chance that two teams from the SEC Conference are going to be invited into the College Football Play Off, but we are going to see some of the contenders being separated in Week 10.

There is a huge game being played in Death Valley between two of the top four Ranked teams, but don't ignore this one in Lexington as the Kentucky Wildcats host the Georgia Bulldogs in a game that may decide which of these teams is going to represent the SEC East in the Championship Game.

Both have lost one SEC game already, but they are the top two teams in the Division at 5-1 in Conference play. The Wildcats may feel a little fortunate to be in this position having needed to score a Touchdown with an untimed Down last week in their victory over the Missouri Tigers.

While that was happening for Kentucky, the Georgia Bulldogs blew out the Florida Gators which means both the Bulldogs and Kentucky have beaten the Gators this season. Whichever of these teams wins on Saturday is likely to be playing in the SEC Championship Game in early December and that means there is some pressure that the players have to deal with.

The superior team looks to be the Bulldogs who have perhaps been underestimated by fans because of their loss to the LSU Tigers. That doesn't look a bad defeat at the moment, and could look even stronger if LSU beat Alabama, while the Bulldogs have looked more dominant than the Kentucky Wildcats.

Both teams certainly will feel they have the Defensive players who can make a huge difference in this game, but it is the Bulldogs who look to have the edge at Quarter Back and that may be the reason they are able to win this game. I love the way the Kentucky Defensive unit have been playing but they have been struggling on the other side of the ball and Georgia could cover this number if they score 20 points.

Much of that feeling is because the Wildcats have been mainly stagnant on the Offensive side of the ball and have not scored more than 15 points in any of their last three games. Those have been played against SEC opposition, but Texas A&M, Vanderbilt and Missouri do not match up to the kind of Defensive unit that the Georgia Bulldogs will bring to town.

Home advantage is important for the Wildcats who are having a very good season regardless of how this game ends up. Benny Snell was kept in check on the ground by the Missouri Tigers last week, but the Wildcats really need him to break some runs in this one if they are going to upset Georgia, because it is going to be very difficult for the inconsistent Terry Wilson to make enough plays through the air to keep the chains moving.

There have been some concerns about Georgia Quarter Back Jake Fromm too, but he is 19-3 as a starter and I think he can make some big plays through the air to put the Bulldogs over the top. Kentucky do have a fierce pass rush led by expected First Round Draft Pick Josh Allen, but Fromm should show enough poise to make the plays that gives Georgia a good looking win with which to impress the Play Off Committee.

Georgia have covered the spread in the last five of this series, while they are 11-3 against the spread in their last fourteen road games. The Wildcats are a much improved team, but I think they will be shut down Offensively and the Defensive unit won't be able to hold out through the entire 60 minutes of this Week 10 game.


Alabama Crimson Tide @ LSU Tigers Pick: The first Play Off Rankings of the season were produced last Tuesday and that means we are going to be seeing a game between two of the top three in Death Valley in Week 10.

For the LSU Tigers this is already essentially a Play Off game as a win would keep them in a position to be picked as one of the top four teams in the nation. However a defeat would mean they have two losses and there has yet to be a two loss team who have made the final four, which would not be likely for the Tigers as they won't even be able to reach the SEC Championship Game.

That puts plenty of pressure on the home team, but they are also going to come into this one without much expectation of the masses as a huge home underdog.

A defeat for the Alabama Crimson Tide would not be as catastrophic as we have seen them make the final four just twelve months ago despite missing out on the SEC Championship Game to the Auburn Tigers. It turned out to be the right decision as Nick Saban was able to guide the Crimson Tide to another National Championship and the feeling for me is that Alabama could afford one loss and still be picked to play in the Play Offs.

In most cases you would think that eases some of the pressure on the players, but Saban is not someone who will leave things to chance and knows the best way to make the Play Offs is by winning every game they play.

Alabama haven't even looked like coming close to a loss so far this season and there is a feeling this is the most talented team they have had under Saban. That's a big statement considering how many National Championships Alabama have won over the last few years, but they have the best Quarter Back this time around and the Crimson Tide have been roughing up every opponent they have faced.

Both teams have had a Bye Week to prepare for this one.

The LSU Tigers will be hoping it has given them time to rest the Defensive Line who have been giving up some chunk yards on the ground in their last few games. It will be a real problem for them if they have not resolved those issues because the Crimson Tide will still look to power through on the ground which will then open things up for Tua Tagovailoa who announced himself in the National Championship Game in the 2017 season and has taken over as the full time starter at Quarter Back.

Saban has spoken highly about the Tigers Defensive strength, but this Crimson Tide have not been worried about reputation and I do fully expect them to find a way to move the chains with some consistency.

The Offensive Line should be able to set things up by protecting their Quarter Back and also opening things up for the running game.

On the other side of the field it is going to be very difficult for the Tigers to move the chains as confidently as I feel the Crimson Tide will be able to do. Joe Burrow has given them a boost at Quarter Back which has been a position that has been tough to fill for the Tigers over the years, but he won't have played against too many Defensive teams like the Alabama Crimson Tide.

It will all be up to Burrow too who won't be given much support from the run game against a powerful Alabama Defensive Line who have clamped down on Running Backs and dared teams to throw on them. If the run can't be established it will be tough for the LSU Offensive Line to protect Burrow and I do think their drives are going to stall much more often than the Alabama Crimson Tide drives.

This is a big spread- a two Touchdown road favourite in a game featuring two of the top three teams in the nation at this point of the season is clearly a very big number.

However I think Alabama are head and shoulders above the rest of the College Football participants and that is going to show up here. The favourite is also 4-1 against the spread in the last five in this series while Alabama are 13-6 against the spread in their last nineteen when playing a team with a winning record at home.

The Tigers do have some impressive numbers against the spread at home, but they are 3-9 against the spread in their last twelve hosting the Crimson Tide and I am going to back the Number 1 team in the College Football nation to underline that position.

MY PICKS: Michigan State Spartans - 2.5 Points @ 1.91 Bet Victor (1 Unit)
Ohio State Buckeyes - 18.5 Points @ 1.91 Bet Fred (1 Unit)
Clemson Tigers - 38.5 Points @ 1.91 Bet365 (1 Unit)
Georgia Bulldogs - 8 Points @ 1.91 Bet Victor (1 Unit)
Iowa Hawkeyes + 2.5 Points @ 1.95 Bet Fred (1 Unit)
TCU Horned Frogs - 9.5 Points @ 1.91 Bet Victor (1 Unit)
Alabama Crimson Tide - 14 Points @ 1.95 Paddy Power (1 Unit)

Week 9: 5-3, + 1.73 Units (8 Units Staked, + 21.63% Yield)
Week 8: 6-4, + 1.46 Units (10 Units Staked, + 14.60% Yield)
Week 7: 5-5, - 0.45 Units (10 Units Staked, - 4.5% Yield)
Week 6: 5-5, - 0.59 Units (10 Units Staked, - 4.5% Yield)
Week 5: 5-3, + 1.55 Units (8 Units Staked, + 19.38% Yield)
Week 4: 7-4, + 2.41 Units (11 Units Staked, + 21.91% Yield)
Week 3: 5-5, - 0.55 Units (10 Units Staked, - 5.5% Yield)
Week 2: 6-5, + 0.52 Units (11 Units Staked, + 4.73% Yield)


Season 2018: 44-34, + 6.08 Units

Weekend Football Picks 2018 (November 3-5)

There is one more big week of domestic and European action before the final international break of the 2018 calendar year.

While there will be plenty of fans looking forward to watching their teams play this weekend, the Football Leaks that came out on Friday made for stunning reading. It is such a shame that the sport is as corrupt as it is and the promotion of a European Super League which is being pushed by the biggest clubs in England, France, Spain, Germany and Italy could have a profound impact on European Football in the coming years.

A European Super League has felt like it would be inevitable since the changes made to the Champions League in recent years, but the back handed way the rich are trying to get richer leaves a sour taste in the mouth.

At the moment you would think these teams are all going to remain in their domestic Leagues, but I wouldn't put anything past them in a bid to rinse more money out of the game.


This is another busy weekend of Premier League Football with games to be played from Saturday lunchtime through to Monday evening. We could see big impacts made at the top and bottom of the Premier League by the end of the weekend ahead of the Champions League and Europa League Match Day 4 games to be played next week.


Bournemouth v Manchester United Pick: Not many would have predicted this Premier League game in early November would be featuring two clubs in the top eight of the table and even fewer would have tipped Bournemouth to be heading into the fixture higher in the table than Manchester United.

That says as much about the poor three months Manchester United have had as it does about how well Bournemouth have been playing under Eddie Howe.

Make no bones about it- this is a huge test for Manchester United at the start of a week in which they have to visit Juventus in the Champions League and then Manchester City in the Premier League before the final international break of the calendar year.

At least the recent Premier League performances will give the fans some real belief that Manchester United have turned a corner. Games against Newcastle United and Chelsea have seen huge improvements in the second half and Manchester United could have easily won both of those, but the more heartening game may be the start made against Everton.

In recent games it has been a criticism that Manchester United have started slowly as they have trailed at half time in 3 games in a row before leading against Everton. Making a fast start could be key at the Vitality Stadium as they take on a confident host who remain unbeaten here in all competitions.

Bournemouth are dangerous as highlighted by the fact they have scored at least twice in 7 of their 8 home games in the 2018/19 season. Eddie Howe's style suggests they will take the game to Manchester United and I don't know many United fans who will believe they are capable of securing a clean sheet here.

However Bournemouth are a team that can be attacked and Everton, Leicester City and Blackburn Rovers have all scored at least twice in fixtures here. This is also the first really big test for Bournemouth this season having negotiated a comfortable fixture list to this point and, while I have been impressed, I am looking to see how they deal with a team with plenty of quality all around.

Defensively it is hard to see how Manchester United keep Bournemouth out though as Jose Mourinho himself admitted the side just cannot keep clean sheets at the moment. On the other side of the field I do think Manchester United have looked dangerous going forward in recent Premier League games and I am going to back at least three goals to be shared out by these teams with a lean towards Manchester United winning the game at a big price.

Not many of the top six from last season will be odds against to win at the Vitality Stadium so the price on a Manchester United win is very appealing. The only negative is that they have not been consistent enough to back at those prices and will need to score at least twice here to win so goals looks the most likely outcome of this fixture.

Fantasy Star: Anthony Martial- the form the Frenchman is displaying means he is the biggest threat going forward for Manchester United who have to be favoured to win here.

Alternative: Callum Wilson- Bournemouth score goals and in Josh King's absence it is going to be Callum Wilson who leads the line and is on penalty duties.


Cardiff City v Leicester City Pick: One week after owner Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha tragically lost his life in a helicopter crash that also killed four other people his football club will take to the field against Cardiff City in what is surely going to be an emotional occasion for everyone inside the Stadium.

It is tough to really know how the Leicester City players are going to react and I imagine Claude Puel will be keeping a very close eye on the group and picking those who look to be dealing with matters the best. Human nature means we all respond differently to difficult times, but the players agreed that they needed to play this Premier League fixture in honour of the owner who had been such a big support to them and the entire city during his time with the club.

Neil Warnock has to be urging his players to avoid the sentiment of the occasion and instead focus on trying to earn an important three points in their fight against relegation. That isn't going to be easy for the Cardiff City players, and this fixture is going to come down to which of the players deal with the entire day the best.

That simply is a factor that can't really be determined until the game kicks off and certainly makes it more difficult to know how the fixture will develop.

There is obviously going to be a high motivation in the away dressing room to put on a big performance for their owner's family who will likely be at the Cardiff City Stadium. In recent games Leicester City have been playing well enough to believe they can become the latest club to get the better of Cardiff City who simply have not defended anything near the level they need to if they want to avoid an immediate return to the Championship.

Cardiff City have conceded at least two goals in 5 straight home games in all competitions and Leicester City have shown they have an appetite for goals away from home. They might have seen their run of at least two goals scored snapped at 3 away games in a row when losing at Arsenal, but anyone who saw that game will have noted the amount of chances Leicester City can create with slightly more composure in the final third.

I think we will see that on Saturday as they look to produce a big performance and Leicester City have shown they can be a very dangerous team when pulling in the same direction. The home team will try and use the occasion to their benefit, but Leicester City are the stronger team and I think they produce one of their better games in the trying situation they find themselves in.

Fantasy Star: Jamie Vardy- I expect Leicester City to honour their owner in the best manner possible.

Alternative: Ben Chilwell- gets forward from defence and I think Ben Chilwell could also have the chance of earning a clean sheet.


Everton v Brighton Pick: Both Marco Silva and Chris Hughton have to be very happy with the starts their Everton and Brighton teams have made to the Premier League, although the fans of both clubs are likely disappointed they are not involved in the League Cup. There is just a point separating these teams in 9th and 11th place respectively, but you have to believe home advantage gives Everton a real edge in this contest.

The teams have contrasting home/away with Everton playing well here, while Brighton have continued to struggle on their travels. Some fans will point out the 0-1 win at Newcastle United last time out, but Brighton had lost 8 of 12 away games in all competitions prior to that win and it can be argued they were somewhat fortunate to escape with the three points in that fixture.

Brighton have won 3 games in a row by the same 1-0 scoreline, but all of those have had a touch of fortune on their side and I can't see how that can be sustained. The defence may have 3 clean sheets, but teams continue to create chances against them and Everton have shown they have a good idea where the goal is.

Everton have now scored at least twice in their last 2 home Premier League games and their attacking football has been rewarded in recent games with the points they have earned. Even last weekend at Old Trafford they fashioned some decent positions, while Everton can't expect Brighton to produce the same intensity Manchester United did.

There is a threat from Brighton because they are in a confident frame of mind, but I can't see them sustaining the charmed life their own goal has been leading. I expect Everton will prove too good going forward and I think the home team can be backed to win a fixture that features at least two goals with the chances they are likely to create and the expected opportunities Brighton should be able to find against the home defence.

A few months ago it ended 2-0 in favour of Everton in the corresponding fixture and a similar margin of victory would not surprise me.

Fantasy Star: Richarlison- he is currently being played in the Number 9 position and Everton should be an attacking force at home.

Alternative: Gylfi Sigurdsson- the Icelandic midfielder has been in good form of late and is a real avenue for goals and assists.


Newcastle United v Watford Pick: I think most of us will be looking at Watford and wondering how long they can maintain the standards of football they have been producing in the first three months of the 2018/19 season. Twelve months ago they made a similarly impressive start under Marco Silva before really losing their way around early December, but Javi Gracia has pulled his team out of a poor run of form.

Winning at Wolves and then beating Huddersfield Town at home has given Watford new momentum as they sit in the heady heights of 7th in the Premier League table.

Inconsistencies still exist though and there have been games where Watford have looked really impressive and others where they have struggled wildly. The 0-4 defeat at home to Bournemouth is a real case of the latter, but those games have not been as frequent as in previous years and that means all credit has to go to the manager.

One thing Watford have maintained is a strong sense of a team that can play very good attacking football and one that will create chances. Even in losses they have managed to do that and that makes them very dangerous for a Newcastle United team who have been far from convincing going forward.

However The Magpies have to point to the last home game with Brighton and I would suggest a similar performance will get them more rewards in future. There is still a feeling they don't have a striker they can rely on at the moment which is going to temper any enthusiasm you can have for them, but Newcastle United could be more dangerous against a Watford defence that has been far from convincing themselves.

Even with that in mind I am surprised you can back Watford on the 'Draw No Bet' handicaps at a bigger price than Newcastle United. They have won back to back games which will give them confidence and the last 2 trips to St James' Park have seen Watford come away with the three points.

You can't ignore the fact that Watford look to have a lot more goals in the side too and I think The Hornets can be backed to win on the handicap knowing the stake will be returned in the event of a draw. If Watford can score twice here, as they have on their previous two games at Newcastle United, I fear the home side will be ready to take their sixth consecutive home defeat to open the 2018/19 Premier League season.

Fantasy Star: Roberto Pereyra- he was the right call last week and could be Watford's main creative threat in this one.

Alternative: Jose Holebas- the defender has been a real attacking threat for Watford and could return this weekend having missed out last weekend. Newcastle United's lack of goals means there is a clean sheet chance here too.


West Ham United v Burnley Pick: There is no doubting that West Ham United look incredibly short to win this game considering their run of 3 losses in their last 4 games since their incredible win over Manchester United.

However the layers seem to have cottoned onto the fact that The Hammers are actually not playing that badly and it feels like a matter of time before results turn their way. Last weekend it took a very late leveller from Leicester City to prevent West Ham United and an inspired Hugo Lloris somehow kept them at bay when they hosted Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League a couple of weeks ago.

There is some pressure on Manuel Pellegrini to get a result here considering he rested so many players in the 1-3 loss to Spurs in the League Cup, but they could be facing Burnley at the right time.

A few months ago Burnley came here and won 0-3 so they should be respected by the home players, but the performances in 2018/19 have been way short of the standards produced last season. They may have picked up some vital points of late, but Burnley are not playing as well as those results suggest and I do think West Ham United should have too much all around for them.

It is hard to trust an erratic team like West Ham United, but they are creating more chances than Burnley and you do have to feel another win is not too far away. Missing their first choice central midfield is a blow, but I am not sure Burnley are playing well enough to capitalise while back to back heavy losses to Manchester City and Chelsea will have dented some of the confidence of the players.

Sean Dyche may not have expected much in terms of results from those two games, but the manner of the defeats would have hurt and I will back West Ham United to find a way to a narrow win in this one. Odds on quotes don't appeal to me here, but I can't imagine West Ham United winning this game if they concede twice and I don't think they are capable of battering too many teams at the moment.

With a tight win expected, you can find a big price on West Ham United winning a game that doesn't feature a lot of goals.

Fantasy Star: Marko Arnautovic- he was rested during the week in the League Cup and the Austrian is the main West Ham United threat.

Alternative: Fabian Balbuena- a threat from set pieces and West Ham United could become the latest club to keep a clean sheet against Burnley.


Arsenal v Liverpool Pick: I have never liked watching Liverpool win any game of football, but I was looking forward to seeing a very big price for them to win at the Emirates Stadium after Arsenal put together an 11 game winning run in all competitions.

Anyone who has been following the Arsenal performances will know there were a number of games in that winning run where this team had ridden enough luck to cover a full season, but the layers seem to be of the same mindset as I am.

Ultimately it boils down to an Arsenal defence that simply isn't as good as it should be for the tactics employed by Unai Emery and I really do fear for them against this Liverpool dynamic attack. I would be surprised to see Emery change his own tactics which means Arsenal will push high up the pitch and leave gaping holes behind the defence in which they are expecting Rob Holding and Shkodran Mustafi to beat out Sadio Mane, Roberto Firmino and Mohamed Salah in foot races.

Hector Bellerin's potential absence only makes the back four that much slower and the likes of Watford and Leicester City have shown what athletic, quick attackers can create against Arsenal.

Going forward Arsenal have looked good, but Liverpool's defence is much improved from the one that came here and conceded three goals in eight second half minutes to blow a 0-2 lead. Last season the back five had Simon Mignolet, Ragnar Klavan and Dejan Lovren, but this time you would think Alisson and Virgin Van Dijk plus an even more improved Joe Gomez make a significant difference.

Liverpool have played Tottenham Hotspur, Chelsea and Manchester City in the Premier League and conceded just twice- the two London clubs both hosted Liverpool which makes that number that much more impressive. Arsenal have created a lot of chances with a strong attacking unit left over from the Arsene Wenger regime, but there have been games where they have simply showed more composure than opponents and that has been enough to turn things in their favour.

A couple of weeks ago you may have had some doubts about Liverpool's attack having seen them score just 4 goals in 4 games. However those fixtures were against Chelsea (twice), Napoli and Manchester City and I would say this Arsenal team is significantly weaker at the back.

Honestly I think this could be a big defeat for Arsenal... Liverpool to win by two or more goals is a big, intriguing price.

That might be being greedy though despite what I feel could be a real statement win from Liverpool as they expose the soft underbelly of Arsenal which has just about been unexposed by clubs in recent weeks. Liverpool are much stronger going forward than many Arsenal have faced in the last couple of months since back to back losses to Manchester City and Chelsea and I will back the away team at odds against to win here.

As a Manchester United fan I would love to be wrong, but my judgement of this football game is that Liverpool win and win well.

Fantasy Star: Mohamed Salah- I think Liverpool could expose the Arsenal defensive vulnerabilities so all of the Liverpool attackers are worth a back. I've listed Mohamed Salah here on current form as the goals have begun to flow again.

Alternative: Roberto Firmino- Salah and Sadio Mane have earned recent praise, but it could be time for the Brazilian to grab some headlines of his own.


Wolves v Tottenham Hotspur Pick: There are three live games on Saturday in the Premier League and the last of those is being played on Saturday evening as Wolves host Tottenham Hotspur. Part of the reason for the schedule is the Champions League game Tottenham Hotspur have to play on Tuesday night, although the Premier League have created a Saturday evening slot which will come into play from the 2019/20 season.

It can be tough on the fans in these late starts, particularly the away fans, but I think Tottenham Hotspur will just be happy to be playing on a surface that resembles a Premier League football pitch.

Playing away from Wembley Stadium has been a recipe for success for Tottenham Hotspur so far this season with 5 wins from 6 away Premier League games, but this is a very difficult place to play. Wolves have come into the top flight and really imposed themselves in matches and having taken points from both Manchester clubs I don't think they will be too worried about having to face Spurs.

Back to back Premier League defeats will have dented the confidence of the players, but Wolves were very good at Brighton last week and deserved much more than they got. They will feel they can get after this Tottenham Hotspur defence which has looked a little vulnerable without leader Jan Vertonghen and Wolves have created enough chances in their Premier League games to believe they can pose more issues for this opponent.

Defensively there have been some lapses though and I also expect Tottenham Hotspur to have some success. The returns of both Christian Eriksen and Dele Allis is a huge boost for Tottenham Hotspur and this is a team that has got a threat going forward and I think the game is going to be an entertaining one.

Tottenham Hotspur look short to win at a ground where Manchester City did not this season, but I can understand the layers not wanting to give too much away on their price. For a moment Wolves intrigued me with the start on the Asian Handicap, but that is short enough too considering they have lost back to back League games and failed to score in either.

The chances created and those that Tottenham Hotspur have given up suggests that streak will be snapped at two games, but I think the away team will have their opportunities too. Backing both teams to score looks like it has every chance of being the right play and that is where I will head with this selection.

Fantasy Star: Harry Kane- the England international is the biggest threat for Tottenham Hotspur and the returns of Christian Eriksen and Dele Alli could boost the creativity of the side.

Alternative: Matt Doherty- don't lose faith in the left wing back who has been close to adding to the one League goal he has scored so far this season.


Manchester City v Southampton Pick: The injury to Kevin De Bruyne would have cast a shadow over Manchester City's dominant performance against Fulham in the League Cup, but they have shown they can live without their Belgian star.

There is no doubt that Pep Guardiola would love to be able to call on De Bruyne, but the likes of David Silva and Bernardo Silva have stepped up their play without him and I don't expect Manchester City to suddenly drop off a cliff.

It would be a huge upset if that was to happen on Sunday at the Etihad Stadium as Manchester City go for a fourth straight win here and fifth overall since the goalless draw at Anfield. Defensively Manchester City have looked very composed and that does not make for much optimism for a Southampton team who have only scored more goals than Huddersfield Town so far this season.

Lacking goals has become a long-term problem for Southampton which is a surprise with the likes of Danny Ings, Nathan Redmond and Charlie Austin in the squad. It has also perhaps led to a lack of composure in the final third as shown in their goalless draw against Newcastle United when critical errors occurred at inopportune times as Southampton surely should have been scoring.

You do feel teams will always have one or two chances when they visit the Etihad Stadium simply because of the way Manchester City play, but the home team have been displayed strength when put under pressure. They have kept clean sheets in 6 straight Premier League games and I am confident they are likely going to have a seventh once this fixture is concluded.

While I think there is a good chance Manchester City keep a clean sheet, it would b a huge surprise if they were not able to score. Even without De Bruyne there is plenty of attacking threats sprinkled around the side and Southampton have conceded at least twice at Everton, Liverpool and Wolves in the Premier League this season.

Manchester City may not blow Southampton away, but it should be noted that both Liverpool and Chelsea have beaten them by the same 3-0 scoreline this season. I will just look for Manchester City to keep their run of clean sheets going by backing them to win this fixture without conceding.

Fantasy Star: David Silva- with Kevin De Bruyne ruled out for five weeks, David Silva can continue to shine in the creative midfield spot.

Alternative: Aymeric Lapore- Man City should be able to earn another clean sheet and Aymeric Laporte has scored two goals already this season.


Chelsea v Crystal Palace Pick: There is only one live offering from the Premier League on Sunday and that comes from West London as Chelsea prepare to host Crystal Palace.

I really think this is a difficult game for Roy Hodgson and his players as they have continued to show little consistent attacking threat. Last weekend they were much better against Arsenal, but Crystal Palace needed two penalties to salvage a draw and the Arsenal defence is significantly poorer than the Chelsea one.

In saying that Chelsea have struggled for clean sheets and both Manchester United and Derby County have scored twice in recent visits to Stamford Bridge. That may be a slight concern for Maurizio Sarri, but as long as Chelsea continue to provide the attacking threat they have been I believe the Italian will be very comfortable with the performances being produced.

Eden Hazard could return this weekend, but Chelsea showed they can handle things without the Belgian by scoring seven goals over the last week. Willian is a huge threat and Ross Barkley is beginning to exert more and more influence in centre midfield and the entire team look much happier being asked to play the way Sarri wants.

The Crystal Palace defence is far from watertight and I think they are going to have a difficult time in trying to contain a Chelsea team who have scored at least twice in 6 of their 8 home games under the Italian manager. Crystal Palace have conceded twice in each of their last 2 away Premier League games and I think Chelsea will be on the front foot in this one for much of the contest.

Wilfried Zaha can pose a threat with his pace and trickery, but it should not be enough to derail Chelsea in keeping tabs with the Premier League leaders. Eden Hazard can be a big performer on his return to the starting eleven and I will look for Chelsea to prove too good with a win by two or more goals on the day.

Fantasy Star: Willian- Eden Hazard may not get a lot of minutes and Willian has been thriving under Maurizio Sarri.

Alternative: Alvaro Morata- he has been scoring goals and is expected to lead the line with Olivier Giroud ruled out.


Huddersfield Town v Fulham Pick: Monday Night Football comes from the John Smith's Stadium and there is no doubting the importance of this fixture between Huddersfield Town and Fulham.

Two clubs inside the bottom three playing in November might not be a critical time of the season, but neither Huddersfield Town or Fulham dare to lose this game. In fact you may even argue that both David Wagner and Slavisa Jokanovic have to win this game for different reasons.

Jokanovic's case is simply that he needs to win to remain in his job as manager of Fulham. The 0-3 home defeat to Bournemouth has put Jokanovic on the brink of being shown the exit and you have to imagine a defeat here and one at Liverpool next weekend is likely going to be results where the board say enough is enough.

David Wagner is less likely to lose his job even if Huddersfield Town were to be relegated, but he will be conscious of the fact that anything less than a win would speed The Terriers towards the trapdoor. They have already failed to beat Cardiff City at home this season and a failure to beat another relegation rival will make it very difficult to know where the points are going to come from.

They are facing a Fulham team who have really struggled at the back and even a Huddersfield Town team that have yet to score at home should be able to take advantage. It has been a mix of poor finishing and some misfortune which has prevented Huddersfield Town from scoring goals in the last couple of games here and I do think that can be turned around against a Fulham team who just don't defend well.

On the other hand I am fully expecting Jokanovic to stick by his principles and set Fulham up to attack. They have shown they can score goals in the Premier League and the manager will likely live or die by his principles at this stage of his tenure when all the pressure is building on him.

It does feel like a game that will produce at least three goals.

That may be a surprising suggestion, but Fulham really do defend so poorly that I am expecting Huddersfield Town to find some good chances in this one. Remember Cardiff City had scored just four goals in 8 Premier League games before doubling that against Fulham, while the West London club have conceded at least twice in all 5 away games played in the League.

Huddersfield Town have only kept one clean sheet, so Fulham have to feel they can create chances having scored twice at Brighton and Cardiff City. The last time these teams played in the same Division two seasons ago saw them share out at least five goals in both League games and I think we are going to see goals when they meet on Monday.

At odds against I think backing three goals or more to be shared out is an option.

Fantasy Star: Steve Mounie- this could be a game with little entertainment and it's hard to pick a fantasy player who could thrive. This is a selection opposing Fulham and their porous defence.

Alternative: Aleksandar Mitrovic- he hasn't scored in his last four Premier League games, but Aleksandar Mitrovic could be the biggest threat to Huddersfield Town having scored at Tottenham Hotspur and Brighton in the League.

MY PICKS: Bournemouth-Manchester United Over 2.5 Goals @ 1.75 Betfair Sportsbook (2 Units)
Leicester City - 0.25 Asian Handicap @ 1.85 Bet365 (2 Units)
Everton & Over 1.5 Goals @ 2.00 Ladbrokes (2 Units)
Watford 0 Asian Handicap @ 2.00 Bet Victor (2 Units)
West Ham United & Under 3.5 Goals @ 2.30 Boyle Sports (2 Units)
Liverpool @ 1.95 Bet Fred (2 Units)
Wolves-Tottenham Hotspur Both Teams to Score @ 1.72 Bet Fred (2 Units)
Manchester City Win to Nil @ 1.80 Paddy Power (2 Units)
Chelsea - 1.5 Asian Handicap @ 1.85 Bet Victor (2 Units)
Huddersfield Town-Fulham Over 2.5 Goals @ 2.05 Bet365 (2 Units)