Ricky’s 10* RUN-LINE ULTIMATE OF THE ULTIMATE on the Cubs.

Jose Quintana (10-7, 4.11 ERA) is performing at his highest level in quite some time and I believe he’s worth laying the 1.5 runs for the pick-em price. Quintana most recently gave up two runs (only one earned) over six innings, while also going on to strike out 14 in what turned out to be an unfortunate no-decision to the hard-hitting Phillies on Tuesday. Over his last four starts Quintana has given up four runs and struck out 26 spanning 19 frames of work. Mitch Keller (1-1, 7.94) has been a train-wreck in his limited time so far for the Pirates, although after being recalled last week he would hold the Angels to one run over five innings in earning his first victory. The book is out on Keller clearly and I believe he’s in well over his head in this matchup. 

Key Trends:

- The Cubs are 7-2 in their last nine National League night road games in which they’re a favorite in the -135 to -200 range.

- The Pirates are only 8-11 in their last 19 home games as an underdog in the +150 to +225 range.

The verdict: Quintana has the experience and momentum to close out the regular season strong. The Cubs won’t be lacking for motivation here either after a scuffling stretch. Keller comes in off a great start, but an immediate return to mediocrity is imminent in my opinion; lay the 1.5 runs!

Ricky’s 10* play on the under Hawks/Vikes.

I think the Vikes take the foot off the gas here after their high-scoring 34-25 road win in New Orleans. Certainly Minnesota is going to face a much better defense in the Seahawks. Last year the Vikes won this game 21-20, but I’m expecting a much lower-scoring “battle” this time around. Seattle has already said that Chris Carson is going to the be the No. 1 RB, so now it’s a battle at that position for the rest of the preseason. The Hawks have their QB, but a strong run game is essential for Russell Wilson obviously. The top spots are filled in Minnesota, so the team is just trying to fill in some weak spots at this point.

The verdict: With Seattle committed to focusing on its run game in the preseason and with the expected letdown here from the home side after last week’s road offensive explosion, all signs point to this one sneaking below the posted number once it’s all said and done!

Ricky’s 10* play on the LA Chargers.

Both teams come in off Week 1 losses. But the Saints looked downright terrible defensively last week in their 34-25 setback at home to the Vikings. With starting QB Drew Brees expected to see little or no time once again, I think New Orleans struggles again here defensively (overall the Vikes had 213 rushing yards and 247 passing.) Taysom Hill and Teddy Bridgewater admittedly both looked decent in their battle for No. 2. The Chargers eventually fell 17-13 in Arizona in Week 1. LA also got good QB play from its potential backups, with Easton Stick passing for 78 yards and rushing for 51, while Cardale Jones was 4 of 6 for 47 yards. Tyrod Taylor though was 6 of 6 for 72 yards, while rushing for 34 more. 

The verdict: LA looked a lot better on the defensive side last week than New Orleans and I believe that will once again be the difference maker for the Chargers this weekend. I think the Saints get caught looking ahead to their all important Week 3 dress rehearsal; lay the points.