Wild Cards: 5 NFL QBs with plenty to gain - or lose - on Wild Card Weekend

The NFL Playoffs are here, and a lot of quarterbacks making their first career postseason starts have plenty to gain - or lose.

Here are my Top 5 QBs with the most to gain -or lose - on Wild Card Weekend. 

1.) Daniel Jones: So, what if Danny talks less than your favorite subway conductor does on the way to Times Square each morning? 

After years of being treated like a second class citizen by most Giants fans, all Jones has done this season is throw for over 3,000 yards, if not run for the hills when needed. 

Jones, a big reason why the Giants are 7-1 against the spread on the road, has perfected the art of play-action passes and could send the Vikings packing with a big performance.

Jones staring at a multi-year deal in the off-season, no matter what happens on Sunday.

2.) Justin Herbert: If not now, then when for the oftentimes cuddled, former first-rounder out of Oregon? 

This is the perfect time for the Chargers to give Herbert, making his first career playoff start, mind you, the chance to let it fly, and not restrict their entire offense to six yards at a time. 

That's if, the Chargers, an organization for years short on quarterback stardom, are really serious about Herbert being a star.

Not just another blonde quarterback forever swaying to the beat of the waves. 

In order to do so, Herbert should look for Keenan Allen a lot on Saturday night, since it's likely to take 30+ points to get out of Jacksonville with a playoff win. 

Especially with Trevor Lawrence on the other side.

3.) Brock Purdy: Purdy, the lowest-drafted rookie quarterback to start a playoff game, has more than enough toys on offense to guide the 49ers into the Super Bowl.

However, beating the Dolphins in November is not the same as trying to get away from Micah Parsons in January. 

It's a cute story, and one cut for Disney, but Purdy will eventually have to make a big throw at some point in these playoffs.

Is he capable of doing just that? 

4.) Trevor Lawrence:  The clock is also ticking for Lawrence, making his first playoff start. 

For all his success down the stretch, Lawrence has five turnovers in his past four games. 

A bit to reckless at times, is he capable of just doing enough to help the Jaguars get past the Chargers? 

Lawrence, still a huge part of the Jaguars future plans, win or lose on Saturday night, isn't under a lot of organizational pressure, let's say, but a big outing vs the Chargers would likely get him a few more commercials!

5.) Geno Smith: Another incredible story! 

I'm just not sure how many NFL teams are going to run to give a 32-year-old a big bag of 💰?

'Wild Card' Underdogs: NFL Playoffs Betting (101) using Jaguars, Dolphins & Buccaneers

Not only do you root for a Florida-based NFL team such as the Jaguars, Dolphins or Buccaneers, you're charged up for whenever sports betting is legalized in Florida.

But you're ready to bet now on the NFL Playoffs Super Wild Card Weekend and not waiting around for some politicos in Tallahassee. If so, here is a short 3-Game, NFL Betting (101) Primer (using the playoff-bound Jags, Dolphins and Bucs as examples).

(Note: Check out your favorite sportsbook site for updated spreads, moneyline odds and other type bets for the NFL's Super Wild Card Weekend. 

Please bet responsibly and contact The National Council of Problem Gambling at 1-800-522-4700, if you or anyone you know has a gambling problem.)

Chargers (-1.5) @ Jaguars: Its been so long since the Jaguars were NFL anything, you think your father is making reservations to his favorite buffet spot each time you hear him say 'Mark Brunell'. 

You also own (16) Trevor Lawrence Wawa Night Wigs and are ready to bet on the 'home underdog' Jags, playing in their (home stadium and getting points) in this spot vs. a Chargers team traveling across the country. 

If so, the Jaguars must (1) defeat the Chargers or (2) lose by one point for you to win your against the spread bet on the home underdog Jaguars in what is expected to be a close game on NFL Playoffs Super Wild Card Weekend. 

Dolphins @ Bills (-11):  You're so excited about the Dolphins making the NFL Playoffs for the first time since Pitbull was cool, you just ordered another Skyler Thompson jersey.

You're also convinced the Dolphins, who lost as (-7) road underdogs just several weeks ago in Buffalo, despite covering the spread, can hang with the Bills. 

You also believe Dan Marino can jump out of a window, land on his feet and throw a touchdown pass -- this very second. 

In that case, you're going to ignore the fact your favorite NFL head coach looks like a computer creeper and bet the Dolphins (+11), who must defeat the Bills or lose by 10 points or less for you to win your bet on the road underdogs in this spot. Dale! 

Cowboys (-3) @ Bucs: You sleep with a sword in your mouth and have spent $865.17 in TB 12 merchandise since 2020, the same year you cancelled your Netflix to replace it with a fitted cap and kale diet package signed by the G.O.A.T., because you want to look and feel like Tom Brady. 

You're also convinced it was all Gisele's fault and that the home underdog Bucs (+3) can't possibly lose at home to the Cowboys, so you want to place a bet on Tampa Bay. 

That means the Bucs must beat the Cowboys straight up or lose by two points or less for you to win your bet on the home underdog in this spot.

(Sidenote: If the Cowboys win 20-17, Gisele keeps the house in Miami and you get your money back, assuming the spread is +3 when you place your bet on the home underdog Bucs.)

(Like my work on here? It would be great to hear from you. I'm open to all comments, suggestions and thoughts. Thanks for your time and support around here.)

Vibrant, Intense & Seductive: The (2023) Miami Open

The Miami Open, one of the most popular events on the tennis tour, will be here before you know it and you can guarantee yourself a front-row seat to all of the intense action by buying your tickets right now!

Hey South Florida ..

Already in the mood to get swept up by the vibrant flair of a multicultural crowd as you delight in the sexiest of cocktails and tropical cuisine, while some of the world's top tennis players smash shots all over the hard courts?

You must be one of the thousands of South Florida tennis aficionados feeling çaliente about buying tickets now for The 2023 Miami Open, the annual, two-week tennis extravaganza, this year taking over Hard Rock Stadium from March 19-April 2. 

That's right! 

Always one of the most anticipated stops on the tennis tour, The Miami Open, captivating fans from all over the world while drawing from it's proximity to Latin America to create a multicultural experience like no other, will be back in South Florida before you know it ..

And it's time you guarantee your seats to all the exhilarating and vibrant action of The 2023 Miami Open.

Because whether it's day or night, The 2023 Miami Open, ready to make you feel the heat with electric DJ spins, smashing shots and world-class culinary options, among other exciting happenings, will definitely have you begging for more.

So, don't dare miss out on one of South Florida's most popular events of the year.

Buy your tickets for The 2023 Miami Open now! 

Just visit https://www.miamiopen.com or call (305) 943-Open for more information.

Prop Up: 3 Player Prop Bets To Consider For TCU vs. Georgia

With No. 1 Georgia (14-0) and No. 3 TCU (13-1) set to meet in the National Championship Game on Monday night, there are plenty of Player Prop Bets to be had featuring top-performers such as TCU QB Max Duggan and Georgia TE Brock Bowers. 

Here are 3 Player Prop Bets for all to consider before all the betting action takes over SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California:  

TCU RB Kendre Miller To Score A Touchdown: Miller, listed as questionable with a knee injury, isn't a sure bet to play vs. Georgia. But Miller, who scored a touchdown in every game this season, expect in the CFP semifinal game vs. Michigan, was one of the nation's leading touchdown scorers with 17.

His ability to find the open field combined with poor tackling habits by the 'Dawgs D as of late, including plenty of missed tackles vs. Ohio State, definitely makes Miller a solid prop bet option (*if he plays.)

TCU QB Max Duggan Over 29.5 Rushing Yards: The Horned Frogs would not be in this position, if not for Duggan, the Heisman Trophy runner-up who quickly went to work on his made-for-Disney script after being inserted at quarterback in early September. 

But for all the magic he created with his right arm (3,546 passing yards and 32 touchdown passes), Duggan also filled the unlikely script with his legs, rushing for 461 yards and eight touchdowns this season. 

Much of Duggan's ground work came at critical points in games, especially when opposing teams forced him out of the pocket and provided him with room to run. 

Georgia's speedy defense, meanwhile, has a tendency to over extend (pursuit) on plays, which could set up plenty of opportunities for Duggan to do just that. 

Besides, it will take just one long run to get Duggan at or near over 29.5 rushing yards.

That's why .. I'm betting he goes over 29.5 rushing yards.

Fit to run: Will TCU QB Max Duggan, who rushed for 461 yards this season, go over 29.5 rushing yards vs. Georgia on Monday night? Photo Courtesy: TCU Athletics

Georgia TE Brock Bowers Over 62.5 Receiving Yards: If the big fav 'Dawgs get into a blow-for-blow TD fest with the Horned Frogs, look for their explosive tight end to have a big game. Bowers, arguably Stetson Bennett's favorite target, led Georgia in receptions (56), receiving yards (790) and receiving yards (6) this season. Bowers has posted two receptions of 25+ yards in each of the last two games.

I'm Fernie Ruano, a South Florida-based sports guy with plenty of experience eating free hot dogs inside a press box near you.

But in-between making sure my arteries are still intact, I also write lots of niche copy with a concentration in sports, music and pop culture. Need a copywriter (or have a sports/creative question, suggestion or idea)? 

It would be great to hear from you on here.

(Note: Please check out your favorite sportsbook for updated odds and numbers in time to make your prop bet of choice before the National Championship Game. 

Please bet responsibly and if you or anyone you know has a gambling problem, contact the National Council of Problem Gambling at 1-800-522-4700. Thank You.)

TCU vs. Georgia: 3 Reasons Why The Horned Frogs Are The Right Side To Bet On

Coming off a 6-2 (ATS) record during the bowl games, including (3-0) in best bets to move to 27-17 overall for the college football season, I'm as motivated right now to give you my pick for TCU vs. Georgia as JJ McCarthy is when he opens his eyes each morning. 

But before Katya changes her mind, let's take a look at 3 reasons why I think TCU (+12.5 at BetMGM) is a solid bet to score the upset vs. Georgia in the national championship game. And being we can all bet on a little extra motivation to start 2023, and I don't buy into trends too much, I'm going to use 3 words starting with the letter 'M' to make my case for the Horned Frogs. (Note: If you or someone you know has a betting problem and wants help, please call the National Council For Problem Gambling at 1-800-522-4700.)

1.) Motivation: This one is too easy. Georgia (14-0), the big moneyline favorite (-450 or so at your sportsbook of choice) with all the Sunday toys and chardonnay-zipping fan base, was pegged by most experts at the beginning of the season to be right where they are now. 

So, this is nothing new for the 'Dawgs, playing for a second straight national championship. 

Its TCU, the little school from Ft. Worth, Texas that was unranked to start the college football season, and still double-digit 'dogs in this spot, that has to be feeling a little extra juice come Monday night. If not, disrespected. Still.

2.) Momentum: For all of Georgia's success over the last two years, including running through the SEC, they're in this spot because (1) Ohio State failed at time management late in Saturday's semifinal game and (2) a field goal kicker missed a long attempt under extreme pressure. 

The Horned Frogs, on the other hand, raced out to an 18-point lead against Michigan, before holding off a late rally by the Wolverines to secure their spot in the national championship game. 

TCU, which hasn't played for a football national championship since 1938, is also the team with the unheralded coach (Sonny Dykes) in his first season in Ft. Worth and the starting QB (Max Duggan) who not too many schools wanted. 

But all Duggan has done is overcome heart surgery on his way to becoming a Heisman Trophy runner-up this season. This after losing the starting QB role after his junior season. 

Sounds like a Disney movie to me. Stetson Bennett IV? His story is old by now.

3.) Money: Despite their dominant ways for much of the season, the Bulldogs are just 7-7 against the spread heading into the matchup vs. TCU, including 5-5 in their last 10 against the spread. 

Georgia failed to cover as significant favs against Missouri, Florida and Kentucky. 

The Horned Frogs, meanwhile, were 10-3 overall against the spread and covered four times as favorites in their last 10 games.

So, be careful in putting too much stock in one team over the other .. before placing your bet. If you haven't already decided to bet on the Horned Frogs on Monday night!

 

Get Sharp: 3 Tips To Improve Your NFL and College Football Betting Skills (In Time For The National Championship Game and NFL Playoffs)

Whether you're a pro or college football bettor tracking line moves as easily as ESPN cams locate Katya Kuropas or just a beginner with eyes for the cash window, making money while betting on NFL and NCAAF games isn't easy. 

Especially, if you're new to betting on football and/or want to become famous for all to see.

But with the National Championship Game and NFL Playoffs on the horizon, here are 3 tips on how to become a stronger football bettor. (Note: Please bet responsibly and within your limits.)

1.) Shop Around: Just like JJ McCarthy's girlfriend might not be for everybody, I really, really hope, you should go 'Line Shopping', if you're serious about making money on the National Championship Game and/or NFL Playoffs.

For Example: If you think TCU (+13.5) can beat or hang with Georgia in the National Championship Game,  I would suggest looking around for a 'book that might be offering the 'Frogs at (+14) or better... 

Think about if JJ went shopping for a gift to give to Katya Kuropas, and smart, he probably wouldn't buy the first ring he saw. You probably wouldn't buy your new shirt at the first store you visited, either. Unless, the offer was too good to pass up. Same here! Also: If you haven't taken TCU at (+13.5) already, it might also be a good idea to sprinkle a little something on the moneyline, if you really think TCU can get by the 'Dawgs. 

2.) Use Your Head, Not Your Favorite TCU T-shirt: Think about it: At some point Katya will have to make a decision on whether to go long - or not - with JJ! The same goes when you have to pick a team to bet on. You may love rooting for the Cowboys or think the Steelers will always be trash, but staying neutral and leaving emotions out of your betting game, will definitely be a big plus. For example: For as much as you may dig everything about the Cowboys, you have to take a step back if you're starting quarterback is Cooper Rush, and not Dak Prescott, in the NFC Championship Game vs. the 49ers, right? Well ... I really hope so!!

 3.) Go Beyond The Trends: 

You might think JJ's dad is a real creeper after watching a few minutes of Michigan-TCU the other night .. but maybe the old man has eyes for some of the other finer things in life as well.

Same here! Don't get caught up in recent trends. Especially, during the postseason. So, just because the Bills have scored 30+ points in consecutive weeks doesn't mean their offense will go crazy against the Steelers in the Wild Card Round. Instead, check the injury reports and the weather conditions, among other things, as well!  

#nfl #betting #tips #collegefootball #trends #kayla #jj ##shop #bet #playoffs 

Running Start To The New Year: 3 Steps To Become A Better Runner in 2023

Whether it's running your first race, running at a faster pace or simply running an extra mile, you can ring in 2023 by setting plenty of goals on how to become a better runner.

Here are (3) steps to help you become a better runner in 2023.

1.) Just run: Want to start the new year off and running? Take time out of your schedule to run (or walk) with enough consistency to build up a routine. 

You might be surprised (or not) on how a 15-minute walk - to start with - can eventually lead to uninterrupted runs, if done as a regular routine. (Tip: Don't try to do too much from the start, especially if you're a beginner. However, log your progress and stick to a schedule. No excuses!!)

2.) Keep Running: Continue to run - no matter what! And set new running routine goals in 2023, in order to brush up on your (current) running weaknesses. Perhaps, you struggle running on windy days or avoid your running sneakers when it's a little chilly out .. Set a goal, like wanting to get new running sneakers, perhaps, and head out for your run. 

3.) Sign Up (For A Run): Confident enough that you have completed a trail run? Now, sign up for an official run (race) that you think might be a lot of fun for you, if not play to your strengths as a runner. Whether you enjoy flat courses, cold weather runs or running over bridges, there's a finish line in sight for runners of all levels.

Stay hydrated, listen to your body and treat yourself!