NFL Betting Tips

A vote for Pedro

Philadelphia Phillies manager Charlie Manuel announced Tuesday that Pedro Martinez will start Game 2 of the World Series. Martinez is 1-1 with a no-decision in his last three starts against the New York Yankees, all as a member of the New York Mets. In the 2004 ALCS with Boston, Martinez was 0-1 with a 6.23 ERA in three appearances vs. the Yankees. He has made one start in this postseason, tossing seven scoreless innings vs. Los Angeles. By pitching Game 2, Martinez would be able to pitch Game 6 on an extra day of rest.

Ready for liftoff?

When the Houston Rockets visit the Golden State Warriors, they will be looking to extend a pair of streaks. The Rockets have won the previous six meetings, going 5-1 against the spread. Houston also is 4-1 against the spread in the second of back-to-back road games, dating to December. The Rockets are getting 6.5 points with a total of 216.5.

Grounded

Philadelphia Eagles running back Brian Westbrook may miss Sunday night's key NFC East game vs. the New York Giants with a concussion suffered Monday night at Washington, the Philadelphia Daily News reported. Westbrook sat out Week 3 with an ankle injury and has just 81 yards on 15 carries since. He would be replaced by LeSean McCoy, who actualy leads the Eagles in rushing yards. Philadelphia is giving one points with a total of 44.

Road warriors

The Buffalo Sabres put their 3-0-0 road mark on the line against the New Jersey Devils. The Sabres have allowed just four goals on the road this season, offsetting a road power play that ranks 29th. They also have won their last two visits to New Jersey. Buffalo is +112 with a total of 5.5.

Howling Wolf

The Minnesota Timberwolves will have center Al Jefferson for their season opener vs. the New Jersey Nets. Jefferson had been bothered by an Achilles tendon injury but has been pain free lately. Last season was shortened by a torn Achilles tendon. The Timberwolves are giving two points - just the second time in the last 20 games that they are favored - and are 9-2 against the spread in their last 11 meetings with New Jersey.

Notable quotable

"It’s just weird because a couple years ago we were talking about maybe pitching in a World Series together. Now we’re in different clubhouses. We’re close. You know, we always have been. We came up together."