Bodog Odds for 2008 Heisman Trophy Winner

Each year, the Heisman Trophy is awarded to the nation’s most outstanding college football player. The ceremony takes place at the Downtown Athletic Club in New York, and the winner is guaranteed much hype and media attention. They’ve also got a real good chance of completely busting in the NFL (only eight have made it into the NFL Hall of Fame), but that’s a whole other story.

Traditionally, the award usually goes to either a running back or quarterback. The only defensive player to win the award was Charles Woodson in 1997. Two offensive ends have been awarded the trophy, as have a wide receiver and kick returner. Otherwise, it’s been all runners and signal callers.

BODOG ODDS FOR 2008 HEISMAN TROPHY

With the college football season underway, everyone is already debating who will be the next Heisman Trophy winner. If you head on over to Bodog, you can even place some money on the outcome. Why not? It’s fast, easy, and they offer some really interesting odds. Take a look.

Sam Bradford 5/2

Donald Brown 55/1

Daryll Clark 15/1

Michael Crabtree 20/1

Chase Daniel 7/1

Matt Grothe 100/1

Max Hall 50/1

Graham Harrell 6/1

Percy Harvin 30/1

Jeremy Maclin 50/1

Colt McCoy 2/3

Knowshon Moreno 13/2

Todd Reesing 100/1

Javon Ringer 9/1

Zach Robinson 50/1

Evan Royster 18/1

Mark Sanchez 30/1

Charles Scott 55/1

Matthew Stafford 40/1

Tim Tebow 10/1

John Parker Wilson 45/1

HEISMAN TROPHY FAVORITES

According to the odds from Bodog, the following players are the biggest favorites to win the 2008 Heisman Trophy:

Colt McCoy 2/3 - starting quarterback for the Texas Longhorns.

Graham Harrell 6/1 - starting quarterback for the Texas Tech Red Raiders.

Chase Daniel 7/1 - starting quarterback for the University of Missouri Tigers.

HEISMAN TROPHY UNDERDOGS

On the other hand, these players are the biggest longshots to capture the trophy in 2008.

Todd Reesing 100/1 - starting quarterback for the Kansas Jayhawks.

Matt Grothe 100/1 - starting quarterback for the University of South Florida Bulls.

Donald Brown 55/1 - running back for the UConn Huskies.

Bodog Odds for 2008 Heisman Trophy Winner

New Online Slot Machines Available

Online slot machines are always being released for play over the Internet, but October has seen a real explosion. Competition between the major online software vendors has resulted in a number of new products, and slot machine fans are the ultimate benefactors. In fact, there may have been more games released this month than in other month in history.

Rival Gaming has wheeled out four new games, while Playtech has countered with two. Both Microgaming and Cryptologic have also gotten in on the fun, with each releasing three new online slot games.

And if you’re looking for more traditional online slot machines, you can always pop on over to Bodog’s online casino. They have more than enough slots to satisfy your gaming urges.

Now, let’s take a look at what’s available from each developer.

RIVAL GAMING NEW ONLINE SLOT MACHINES

The following are new online slot machines from Rival Gaming:

Major Moolah - One of Rival’s first network linked progressive jackpot games.

Strike Gold - The other network linked progressive jackpot game from Rival.

Baby Boomers - a new I-slot from Rival.

Gobbler’s Gold - a new video slot machine from Rival.

MICROGAMING NEW ONLINE SLOT MACHINES

These new online slot machines are available from Microgaming.

Spike’s Night Out - new online slot from Microgaming.

Bob’s Bowling Bonanza - new online slot machine from Microgaming.

Johnny Specter - 20-line video slot similar to the old Ghostbusters film.

PLAYTECH NEW ONLINE SLOT MACHINES

The following new online slot machines are available from Playtech:

Greatest Odyssey - 25-line slot machine with a bonus feature. The setting is an underwater adventure.

Geisha Story - a beautiful 15-line online slot machine from Playtech.

CRYPTOLOGIC NEW ONLINE SLOT MACHINES

Ultimate Revenge - sequel to the Hulk online slot machine.

Wolverine - features a combat-style bonus game.

Spiderman - Another new slot machine from Cryptologic.

Sub-Mariner - the latest new Marvel online slot machine from Cryptologic.

For more gambling news, see the following:

WPT and MySpace Unite for Online Poker

Iran is World Leader in Online Gambling

New Online Slot Machines Available

World Series Betting Odds from Bodog

The fifth and perhaps final game of the 2008 World Series will be played tonight in Philadelphia. The hometown Phillies, while holding a 3-1 series lead, will attempt to finish off the suddenly cold Tampa Bay Rays. The game will be broadcast on FOX.

THE SERIES SO FAR…
Up until Game Four, the series was very closely contested. In Game One, the Phillies went on the road and pulled out a 3-2 victory. The Rays rallied at home in Game Two to tie the series with a 4-2 win. The series moved to Philadelphia for Game Three, and the Phillies responded with a 5-4 win.
Last night, the wheels really seemed to fall off for the Rays, and the Phillies walloped them 10-2. Phillies pitcher Joe Blanton had seven strikeouts and Ryan Howard knocked in two homers. Blanton also became the first pitcher to hit a home run in the World Series in 34 years.
“I just closed my eyes and swung in case I made contact,” said Blanton.

THE TAMPA BAY RAYS…WHAT HAPPENED?
After downing the Red Sox in the ALCS, many had anointed the Rays as this year’s team of destiny. But their luck appears to have finally run out. They’ve committed five errors in the series, and rookie sensation Evan Longoria went a pitiful 0 for 4 in Game Four, bring his series total to 0 for 16. While the team had 16 homers in the ALCS contest, they have only managed three in the World Series.
According to Rays manager Joe Maddon, “We’re definitely not swinging the bats as well as we can. We didn’t play well tonight, and we’ve got to get better - fast.”

WORLD SERIES GAME FIVE
With the Phillies leading 3-1 and having home field advantage, the Rays will be sending Scott Kazmir to the mound. He’s 12-8 on the season, with an ERA of 3.49.
“I want the ball, definitely,” said Kazmir. “It’s going to be a tough one. They’ve got their best guy out there and it’s do or die for us, but I definitely want the ball in this situation.”
On the other side, Cole Hamels will be starting for the Phillies. He’s a perfect 4-0 in the postseason, and his record for the year is 14-10 with a 3.09 ERA.
The Rays have a season record of 97-65, and they are 40-41 on the road. The Phillies are 92-70 for the year, and their home record stands at 48-33.

WORLD SERIES ODDS FROM BODOG
Here are the current World Series odds from Bodog for Game Five. If you’ve never tried Bodog before, what are you waiting for? They offer excellent customer service and quick payouts. In fact, they offer pretty much everything you could ever want in an online sports book. And I’m not just saying that because I’m an affiliate!

Tampa Bay Rays (runline) +1 ½ (-135) (moneyline) +162
Philadelphia Phillies (runline) -1 ½ (+115) (moneyline) -177
The over/under is 7 ½ points, with the over being +105 and the under at -125.

World Series Betting Odds from Bodog

Sophie Sandolo - Babe of the Week

This week's Hottie is Sophie Sandolo, a professional golfer from Italy. She also releases a calendar each year which features her sweet body in the buff.

Sophie Sandolo - Babe of the Week

NFL Odds and Predictions Week Eight

Last week, I finished 7-7 on my NFL picks. I then vowed to make major improvements this week and finish above .500. Was I able to do it? Actually, I’m proud to say that I was. I finished week seven with a record of 9-3, improving my season record against the line to 42-38-1. Now I’m looking to keep the momentum going and bring you another week of winning NFL predictions.

Here goes nothing!

WEEK EIGHT NFL BYES

If you play fantasy football, be sure and remember these bye weeks for week eight:

Denver Broncos

Chicago Bears

Green Bay Packers

Minnesota Vikings

WEEK EIGHT NFL INJURIES AND SUSPENSIONS

As always, there are plenty of NFL injuries to go around. But there also seem to be a surprising number of suspensions as of late. Keep these in mind when making your picks for the week.

Reggie Bush - Out following knee surgery.

Larry Johnson - Suspended by team for off-the-field issues (assault charges).

Tony Romo - Out with broken finger.

Carson Palmer - Out with elbow injury.

Matt Hasselbeck - Out with back injury.

Laurence Maroney - Placed on IR.

Joseph Addai - Out with a hamstring injury.

Willie Parker - Out with knee injury.

Santonio Holmes - Suspended for marijuana possession.

Kellen Winslow - Suspended for one game.

NFL WEEK EIGHT ODDS AND PREDICTIONS

My picks are in bold. The betting lines are courtesy of Bodog‘s online sports book, which is one of the best in the business.

Raiders +7 ½ @ Ravens -7 ½

Chargers -3 @ Saints +3

Chiefs +14 @ Jets -14

Bills -2 @ Dolphins +2

Buccaneers +2 @ Cowboys -2

Falcons +9 @ Eagles -9

Rams +8 @ Patriots -8

Cardinals +4 @ Panthers -4

Redskins -8 @ Lions +8

Browns +7 @ Jaguars -7

Bengals +9 @ Texans -9

Giants +3 @ Steelers -3

Seahawks +6 @ 49ers -6

Colts +4 @ Titans -4

For more on the NFL, see the following links:

NFL Week Seven Betting from Bodog Sportsbook

Week 6 NFL Betting from Bodog

NFL Odds and Predictions Week Eight

WPT and MySpace Unite for Online Poker

If you’re a fan of both poker and MySpace, then I’ve got great news for you. Yesterday, the social networking site known as MySpace and the World Poker Tour announced a partnership to create a premier online community for Internet poker players. It will be referred to by the ClubWPT brand name and offer “must-see content for poker die-hards and casual fans alike.”

CLUB WPT FEATURES

The new site will feature all kinds of goodies for the poker enthusiast. These include player profiles, video clips, tournament news, suggestion and tactics from expert players, as well as behind-the-scenes footage from the World Poker Tour and their ClubWPT.com television series. After all, wouldn’t you like to see what Phil Hellmuth and Tony G act like when the cameras aren’t rolling?

In addition, poker fans will be able to play online poker using software developed by Oberon. Tournament play will be available, and participants can also pay $19.95 per month to become VIP members. For this fee, they will be eligible for a number of sweepstakes. In addition, members will be able to compete for prizes in excess of $100,000 per month, plus seats at WPT events and on their new television series.

STEVE LIPSCOMB SPEAKS

According to Steve Lipscomb, founder of the World Poker Tour, “Poker and social networking have separately reached and engaged people around the globe in ways like nothing we’ve seen before. As poker continues to see major growth across the globe, this partnership meets the demand for a poker experience that appeals to enthusiasts of all levels by connecting consumers in one unique, fully-integrated gaming and entertainment environment.”

No doubt, Steve believes every word of that. There’s no way he would be saying that just to make a buck.

But regardless of whether or not Steve is telling the truth or just hyping a product, there’s no doubt that this will be a great new format for poker fans to interact and compete. Hop on over to MySpace and check it out.

For more gambling news, see the following links:

Online Poker Room is Out of Business

Bodog Makes History with Online Poker Tournament

WPT and MySpace Unite for Online Poker

UFC 89 Results - UFC 90 Betting Odds from Bodog

This is a busy week for the UFC. On Saturday, October 18th, UFC 89: Bisping vs. Leben was broadcast for free on Spike TV. Seven days later, UFC 90 will be hosted on pay-per-view. Looks like it’s a great month to be a MMA fan.

RESULTS FOR UFC 89

This event was held at the National Indoor Arena in Birmingham, England. The co-main event was Michael “The Count” Bisping vs. Chris “The Crippler” Leben and Keith Jardine vs. Brandon Vera. While not the most exciting card ever, it was free. Keep that in mind before you bitch too much.

Preliminary Card

Lightweight bout: Samy Schiavo vs. Per Eklund - Eklund wins via Submission (Rear Naked Choke) at 1:47 of round 3.

Welterweight bout: Akihiro Gono vs. Dan Hardy - Hardy wins by Split Decision (29-28, 29-28, 28-29)

Heavyweight bout: Shane Carwin vs. Neil Wain - Carwin defeated Wain by TKO (Strikes) 1.31 of round 1.

Lightweight bout: Jess Liaudin vs. David Bielkheden - Bielkheden defeated Liaudin via Unanimous Decision (30-27, 29-28, 29-28)

Lightweight bout: Sam Stout vs. Terry Etim - Etim defeated Stout via Unanimous Decision (30-27, 29-28, 29-28)

Lightweight bout: David Baron vs. Jim Miller - Miller defeated Baron by Submission (Rear Naked Choke) at 3:19 of round 3.

Main Card

Welterweight bout: Marcus Davis vs. Paul Kelly - Davis defeated Kelly by Submission (Guillotine choke) 2:16 of round 2.

Light Heavyweight bout: Rameau Thierry Sokoudjou vs. Luis Cane - Cane defeated Sokoudjou by TKO (Strikes) 4.15 of round 2.

Welterweight bout: Chris Lytle vs. Paul Taylor - Lytle defeated Taylor via Unanimous Decision (30-27, 29-28, 29-28)

Middleweight bout: Michael Bisping vs. Chris Leben - Bisping defeated Leben via Unanimous Decision (30-27, 30-27, 29-28)

Light Heavyweight bout: Keith Jardine vs. Brandon Vera - Jardine defeated Vera via Split Decison (29-28, 29-28, 28-29)

UFC 90 - FULL CARD AND MMA BETTING ODDS

Now that the freebies are out of the way, it’s time to turn our attention to the UFC’s next pay-per-view event. UFC 90 will take place on October 25th at the Allstate Arena in Rosemont, Illinois, and it features a middleweight bout between Anderson Silva and Patrick Cote as the main event.

Here’s the full card. Keep in mind that Bodog will have betting odds for every fight on the card in the days leading up to the event. At the moment, the only betting line being offered is for the main event.

Preliminary Card

Lightweight bout: Hermes Franca vs. Marcus Aurelio

Middleweight bout: Matt Horwich vs. Dan Miller

Welterweight bout: Josh Burkman vs. Pete Sell

Lightweight bout: Spencer Fisher vs. Shannon Gugerty

Middleweight bout: Thales Leites vs. Drew McFedries

Main Card

Lightweight bout: Gray Maynard vs. Rich Clementi

Lightweight bout: Sean Sherk vs. Tyson Griffin

Heavyweight bout: Fabricio Werdum vs. Junior dos Santos

Welterweight bout: Thiago Alves vs. Josh Koscheck

Middleweight championship bout: Anderson Silva -650 vs. Patrick Côté +450

UFC 89 Results - UFC 90 Betting Odds from Bodog

Ana Paula Mancino - Babe of the Week

This week's Babe, Ana Paula Mancino, is a true-blue Italian babe. She plays professional volleyball, and she also does some modeling on the side. Be sure and check out her website, as there's some really hot content.

Ana Paula Mancino - Babe of the Week

Dancing with the Stars - Rocco Eliminated!

Another contestant was eliminated Tuesday on Dancing with the Stars, and this time is was celebrity chef Rocco DiSpirito. That leaves eight contestants remaining on the hit television show.

FAREWELL TO ROCCO DiSPIRITO

Rocco DiSpirito, best known for his reality show “The Restaurant,” would probably have been eliminated a week earlier if not for the withdrawal of Misty May-Treanor due to an injury. But despite the judge’s lack of enthusiasm, he soldiered on and tied 82-year-old Cloris Leachman for the lowest score of the week.

DiSpirito was a gracious loser, telling the judges, “Carrie Ann, for always having something gracious and positive to say, and Len, absolutely you’re a class act.”

To his partner, Karina Smirnoff, he said, “I know teaching me how to dance must feel like pushing a stone uphill sometimes, but thank you so much. I owe you for the gift of dance. I really appreciate it.”

As the show drew to a close, Rocco added, “I have nothing but grateful feelings to the entire cast and crew. This is a once in a lifetime experience.”

And with that, Rocco walked off into the sunset. Well, there wasn’t actually a sunset, but you know what I mean.

BETTING ODDS FOR DANCING WITH THE STARS

Next week, the final eight contestants will dance to either the jitterbug, hustle, salsa or West Coast Swing. If you haven’t wagered on a favorite yet, it’s not too late. Bodog will have odds throughout the season, and they’re constantly updating their information.

Can Cloris Leachman hold on to win, or will the ever-popular Brooke Burke come away with a victory? And don’t count out Lance Bass. He’s really come on as of the last few weeks.

Lance Bass 3/1

Toni Braxton 5/1

Brooke Burke 3/2

Maurice Greene 7/1

Cloris Leachman 100/1

Cody Linley 7/1

Susan Lucci 5/1

Warren Sapp 2/1

Wow! Right now, it appears Warren Sapp is the odds-on favorite to win the competition. I woulda never thought a former Raider would have a chance at winning anything. Way to go, big guy.

Dancing with the Stars - Rocco Eliminated!

NFL Week 7 Betting from Bodog Sportsbook

Week seven of the NFL season is here, and my wacky season of predicting winners and losers continues. In week five, I finished at 5-5. I was hoping to do better last week, but all I could manage was a lukewarm 7-7. That brings my overall record to 33-35-1. This time last season, I was sitting at 36-33-5, and I finished with a decent record..

That’s why I’m going out on a limb this week and guaranteeing that I’ll finish above .500. This ship has got to get turned around, and it’s my responsibility to do that as the captain. Keep your fingers crossed.

WEEK SEVEN BYES

Whether you’re making wagers with Bodog or setting your fantasy football line-up, don’t forget that the following teams are on bye this week:

Jacksonville Jaguars

Atlanta Falcons

Philadelphia Eagles

Arizona Cardials

NFL BETTING ODDS FROM BODOG

As always, I pick against the line set by the fine folks at Bodog. If you’re looking for a new (or better) sports book, why not give them a try?

My picks are in bold print.

Titans -8 ½ @ Chiefs +8 ½

Chargers -1 @ Bills +1

Steelers -10 @ Bengals +10

Ravens +3 @ Dolphins -3

Vikings +3 @ Bears -3

Saints +3 @ Panthers -3

49ers +10 ½ @ Giants -10 ½

Lions +9 @ Texans -9

Jets -3 @ Raiders +3

Browns +7 ½ @ Redskins -7 ½

Seahawks +11 @ Buccaneers -11

Broncos +3 @ Patriots -3

Odds were posted for the Cowboys/Rams and Colts/Packers. The Cowboys were 7 points favorites when it was believed that Brad Johnson would be filling in for the injured Tony Romo (broken pinky finger). However, it has been reported that Romo told coaches he was ready to play on Sunday, so the whole thing has been thrown into doubt.

The Colts were two point favorites over the Packers, but it was announced today that RB Joseph Addai will miss 2 to 4 weeks with a partially torn hamstring. For this reason, Bodog scrapped the old odds and will no doubt post new ones by tomorrow.

For more on NFL betting, see the following links:

NFL Week 6 Betting Odds from Bodog

NFL Week 5 Betting Odds from Bodog

NFL Week 7 Betting from Bodog Sportsbook

Kelly Pavlik vs. Bernard Hopkins - Boxing Odds from Bodog

Kelly “The Ghost” Pavlik and Bernard “The Executioner” Hopkins will clash this Saturday at the Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, New Jersey. The fight will be shown on HBO pay-per-view and take place at a catch-weight of 170 pounds.

PAVLIK VS. HOPKINS - TWO STARS COLLIDE

Pavlik, the rare white boxing star, has captured the imagination of boxing fans ever since his upset win over Jermain Taylor in the later part of 2007. Since that time, he’s defeated Taylor in a rematch and also knocked out mandatory challenger Gary Lockett to retain his undisputed middleweight title. Now he‘s ready for a big payday against Hopkins, but he‘ll be moving up in weight to do so.

Hopkins, meanwhile, is coming off a split decision loss to Joe Calzaghe. Many have speculated that this fight could be the last for the 43-year-old Hopkins, but Hopkins has defied his critics before. After all, this is a man who held the middleweight title for a decade.

The undefeated Pavlik is known for his punching power, but some doubt the durability of his chin. Hopkins is a slick veteran who has never been knocked out, but he’s been known to tire in the later rounds. This should be a great fight for fans of the sport, and the bookies will no doubt be busy.

BERNARD HOPKINS - TALE OF THE TAPE

Bernard “The Executioner” Hopkins is 43 years old. He stands 6’1” with a 75” reach. Out of 55 fights, his professional record stands at 48wins, 5 losses, 1 draw and 1 no contest. He has 32 wins by knockout.

Hopkins has held titles at both the middleweight and light heavyweight level.

Notable wins include Felix Trinidad, Antwun Echols, William Joppy, Oscar De La Hoya, Antonio Tarver and Winky Wright. Notable losses include Roy Jones Jr., Jermain Taylor (twice) and Joe Calzaghe.

A crafty Philly fighter, Hopkins won’t hesitate to get inside and fight dirty. He’ll seek to rough up Pavlik and take him into the deep waters, where fighters either rise to the occasion or get overwhelmed. Without a doubt, Pavlik has never faced a fighter with the ring savvy of Hopkins.

KELLY PAVLIK - TALE OF THE TAPE

Kelly “The Ghost” Pavlik is 26 years old. He stands 6’2 ½” tall with a 75” reach. Out of 34 fights, Pavlik has a perfect record of 34-0.

He is currently the undisputed middleweight champion of the world.

Notable wins include Bronco McKart, Edison Miranda and Jermain Taylor (twice).

Expect Pavlik to rely on his power and attempt to put Hopkins away early. While he often enjoys a reach advantage over his opponents, that won’t be the case in this fight. Pavlik will need to stick with his gameplan, as Hopkins is a master of getting fighters off of their game.

The biggest question with many observers is how the added weight will affect Pavlik. Since he’s more of a power fighter, the difference may not be noticeable, as long as he’s able to take his power with him to the 170 pound level.

HOPKINS VS. PAVLIK - BETTING ODDS FOR BOXING

According to Bodog, here are the current odds for the fight:

Pavlik -350 vs. Hopkins +275

Total Rounds - 11 ½ (Over -205, Under +165)

Kelly Pavlik vs. Bernard Hopkins - Boxing Odds from Bodog

Oktoberfest Girl - Babe of the Week

It's October, so cities all over the world are holding their versions of Oktoberfest. That means beer, sausages and, of course, lots of hot blonde girls with braided hair and revealing costumes. What I want to know is why there isn't a damned Novemberfest or Decemberfest?!

Oktoberfest Girl - Babe of the Week

Week 6 NFL Betting Odds from Bodog

Week 5 of the 2008 NFL season has come and gone, and there were the usual upsets, shocks and downright thuggery. The Lions and Bengals continued their losing ways, and one has to wonder who will be the next coach to get canned this season? Lane Kiffin and Scott Linehan are out, by the way (if you haven’t already seen Al Davis’ bizarre press conference, be sure to look for it on the Internet).

LAST WEEK’S RESULTS

I finished a meager 5-5 on my picks last week. That brings my overall season record to 26-28-1. I’m way behind where I was last season, so I’m gonna have to really start taking a closer look at these contests. The toughest thing, to me, is forgetting all about what a team did last season and trying only to focus on the current year. I keep thinking, “This team was great last year,” so I keep expect a losing franchise to turn things around.

Picking winners on a consistent basis is certainly harder than one might think.

NFL KEY INJURIES - WEEK 6

Here are some of the key injuries in the NFL for the sixth week of the season:

QB - Matt Hasselbeck (Seahawks) - Hyperextended knee. Didn’t practice all week, but he will play this Sunday.

QB - Brian Griese (Buccaneers) - A shoulder injury knocked him out of the game, and expect Jeff Garcia to make a run at getting his job back.

QB - Jon Kitna (Lions) - Back spasms. He’s pretty much lost the starting job.

RB - Ladainian Tomlinson (Chargers) - Injured toe. Looks like this nagging injury may hamper LT throughout the season.

RB - Brian Westbrook (Eagles) - Sprained ankle and 2 fractured ribs. With the Eagles getting a bye in week 7, expect Westbrook to sit.

WR - Eddie Royal (Broncos) - Suffered a lower leg injury and is out for this week’s game.

WR - Chris Chambers (Chargers) - Lower leg injury. Looks to miss this week.

TE - Tony Scheffler (Broncos) - Strained left groin. Out for this week.

WEEK SIX BYES

By the way, don’t forget that the following teams have the week off:

Tennessee Titans

Kansas City Chiefs

Pittsburgh Steelers

Buffalo Bills

NFL WEEK SIX - BODOG BETTING ODDS

Bodog has all your betting odds for week six of the NFL season. Why not give it a shot? You might end up being a natural at picking the winners (which is more than I can say for myself).

My picks for the week are in bold.

Raiders +7 @ Saints -7

Ravens +4 @ Colts -4

Bengals +6 @ Jets -6

Panthers +1 ½ @ Buccaneers -1 ½

Lions +13 ½ @ Vikings -13 ½

Bears -3 @ Falcons +3

Dolphins +3 @ Texans -3

Rams +14 @ Redskins -14

Jaguars +3 ½ @ Broncos -3 ½

Eagles -6 @ 49ers +6

Cowboys -6 @ Cardinals +6

Packers +3 @ Seahawks -3

Patriots +5 @ Chargers -5

Giants -8 @ Browns +8

Week 5 NFL Odds and Predictions from Bodog

Results from EliteXC - Kimbo Slice Loses

Week 6 NFL Betting Odds from Bodog

Online Poker Room Is Out of Business

Online poker suffered a loss this week when DuplicatePoker.com was forced to close down operations. Many were caught unaware by the development, as the site had just registered its 250,000th player on September 20th.

THE DEATH OF DUPLICATE POKER

Just 20 days ago, Duplicate Poker had issued a press release claiming to be “one of the fastest growing online poker communities.” But as of Sunday, visitors to the site were greeted with this somber message:

Dear players,
Duplicate is sadly bidding farewell to its players. Caught in the middle of the global financial situation, the company is not able to continue to provide service. We are a small victim of the global financial crisis.
Regretfully, as of the today, October 5th, 2008, we are closing our service. We thank our players for being with us. Hopefully, at a later time and in a better economic climate, Duplicate Poker will re-appear.

Sincerely,
The Duplicate Poker Team

SUCCESS OF DUPLICATE POKER

Back in April, the site had unveiled a new look for the public. They also sent a tournament winner to the World Series of Poker. All of this confirmed what their press release called “the growing interest and success of this unique skill-based online poker game.”

The site used a novel approach where players at different tables were dealt identical hands. It was then up to the customers to play these hands to the best of their ability, and money was won or lost based on how well the hand was played compared to other players with the same hand.

This also allowed the game to fall into the skill-based category. This was a big plus, as it allowed DuplicatePoker to sidestep the angry advances of many anti-gambling organizations and politicians.

According to Pinhas Romik, founder and CEO of the site, “Our revenues have increased six-fold since the public launch, and we expect the game’s popularity to continue its upward trajectory.”

Sadly, that was not the case.

BODOG IS STILL GOING STRONG

But while the global economy has killed off Duplicate Poker, the online casino and poker rooms of Bodog are still going strong. From blackjack and poker to craps and roulette, Bodog has everything that a gambler might crave. If you used to be a customer of Duplicate Poker and are looking to fill that void, why not click on the link above and give Bodog a try?

For more poker and online casino news, see the following:

Six Online Casinos in Trouble

Meet the Members of Team Bodog

Online Poker Room Is Out of Business

Dancing with the Stars Bodog Odds - Kim Returns?!

There’s never a dull moment on Dancing with the Stars. Now in its seventh season, the show which features celebrities trying their hand at ballroom dancing continues to provide spills, thrills and genuinely shocking moments. Who can forget the season one showdown between John O’Hurley and Kelly Monaco? Or how about Heather Mills competing with a prosthetic leg, or Marlee Matlin dancing without being able to hear the music?

DANCING WITH THE STARS - LATEST ELIMINATION

On the September 30th show, Kim Kardashian was eliminated. At the time, that left 10 dancers to battle it out for the title. Kim’s sister told an online magazine that she was “relieved” to be eliminated, as she was tired of being torn apart by the judges on a weekly basis.

MISTY MAY-TREANOR WITHDRAWS!

But even though another celeb wasn’t scheduled to be eliminated until tonight, there’s one less contestant on Dancing with the Stars. On Friday, volleyball star Misty May-Treanor tore her Achilles tendon while rehearsing. On last night’s show, she appeared on crutches and announced that she was being forced to withdraw.

Rumors are now swirling that Kardashian might be asked back to fill the void. She told Ryan Seacrest during a radio interview, “If they ask me to, I’m available.” Tonight’s episode may answer that question.

Cloris Leachman, by the way, has received the lowest scores from the judges three shows in a row. Somebody will get the axe tonight, and the smart money is on Cloris. Speaking of smart money…

DANCING WITH THE STARS - BETTING ODDS FROM BODOG

Bodog has the latest odds for Dancing with the Stars, and these are updated throughout the week. This is an excellent chance to make a little cash, and May-Treanor’s withdrawal leaves the field wide open. Will Brooke Burke continue to remain the favorite, or will the large but lovable Warren Sapp charm his way to a win?

Stay tuned to Dare to Gamble, as we’ll keep you updated on all the developments.

Lance Bass 4/1

Toni Braxton 5/1

Brooke Burke 2/1

Rocco Dispirito 25/1

Maurice Greene 6/1

Cloris Leachman 100/1

Cody Linley 4/1

Susan Lucci 5/1

Warren Sapp 5/2

For more on Dancing with the Stars, check out the following:

Dancing with the Stars Season Seven - Betting Odds from Bodog

Dancing with the Stars - Season Seven Cast Announced

Dancing with the Stars Bodog Odds - Kim Returns?!

Babe of the Week - Lizzie the Hot Jewish Chick

Lizzie is hot and she's Jewish. When she's not wagging her tongue seductively at the camera, she's going to med school and listening to 30 Seconds from Mars. Like most Jewish girls, she's got a rack that just won't quit. God bless Israel!

Babe of the Week - Lizzie the Hot Jewish Chick

Results from EliteXC - Kimbo Slice Loses!

The day before the EliteXC: Heat event, Ken Shamrock was doing a light workout. He accidentally butted heads with his training partner and noticed a few drops of blood trickling down. Long story short, Shamrock had to get the cut sutured and no doctor would clear him to take part in Saturday night’s scheduled fight against Kimbo Slice. No doubt, CBS was thrilled.

INTRODUCING SETH PETRUZELLI

As a replacement, EliteXC grabbed Seth Petruzelli, a light heavyweight from Texas, off of the undercard. Slice agreed to face this new opponent on short notice, and a new main event was on.

The fight lasted 14 seconds. After clipping Slice on the jaw with a short punch, Petruzelli followed up and rained down bombs. Slice tried to recover, but he was just too dazed. The referee had no choice but to step in and call the fight. And so dies EliteXC’s golden goose.

Petruzelli, his hair dyed black and pink, jumped to his feet and tossed his mouthpiece into the crowd. He seemed as shocked as everyone else. Slice continued to be dazed, even going so far as to grapple with the referee, who he mistook for his opponent.

ELITE XC - THE AFTERMATH

Already deeply in debt, this card may have spelled the end for EliteXC. The cancelled main event was announced at the start of the show, but many viewers may have hung around anyway to watch Slice. With his loss, however, his mystique as a badass brawler may have been wiped away. Sure, there will still be some who follow him with interest, but the novelty has officially worn off.

And it’s not like EliteXC will be able to turn Petruzelli into the next Slice. While he’s certainly got some talent, he’s just another boring white guy in a sport filled with interchangeable white guys with short-cropped hair.

On the positive side, both Gina Carano and “Cyborg” Santos won their fights, setting up the highly-anticipated bout between these two female MMA titans. Unfortunately, that’s not going to be enough to save the company.

ELITE XC - FULL FIGHT RESULTS

Preliminary Card

Lightweight bout: Nicolae Cury vs. Jorge Bouchat - Cury defeated Bouchat via submission due to a triangle choke at 1:35 of round one.

Bantamweight bout: Bryan Hamade vs. David Gomez - Hamade defeated Gomez via submission due to a guillotine choke at 2:03 of round one.

Welterweight bout: Lorenzo Borgomeo vs. Mickey Gomez - Gomez defeated Borgomeo via submission due to an armbar at 4:06 of round two.

Lightweight bout: James Edson Berto vs. Conor Heun - Heun defeated Berto via TKO (Strikes) at 2:18 of round two.

Women's bout: Cristiana “Cyborg” Santos vs. Yoko Takahashi - Santos defeated Takahashi via Unanimous Decision (30-26, 30-27, 30-27)

Main Card

Middleweight bout: Benji Radach (+190) vs. Murilo Rua - Radach defeated Rua via KO (punch) at 2:31 of round two.

Women's bout: Gina Carano (-625) vs. Kelly Kobold - Carano defeated Kobold via unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 29-28)

Heavyweight bout: Andrei Arlovski (-500) vs. Roy Nelson - Arlovski defeated Nelson via KO (punch) at 3:14 of round two.

Welterweight Championship bout: Jake Shields (-550) vs. Paul Daley - Shields defeated Daley via submission (armbar) at 3:47 of round two to retain the EliteXC Welterweight title.

Heavyweight bout: Kimbo Slice vs. Seth Petruzelli - Petruzelli defeated Slice via TKO (strikes) at 0:14 of round one.

For more MMA info, check out the following links:

Bodog Odds for Kimbo Slice vs. Ken Shamrock

Ken Shamrock and Kimbo Slice at EliteXC on CBS

Results from EliteXC - Kimbo Slice Loses!

Week 5 NFL Odds and Predictions from Bodog

Week 5 of the NFL season is right around the corner, so it’s time for our weekly look at the betting lines being offered by our pals at Bodog. There are a few lines not yet available, but they’ll no doubt be posted prior to the Sunday kickoff.

NFL PREDICTIONS

I was on vacation last week, so I didn’t make any picks. The week before, I finished with a record of 7-9, giving me a total of 21-23-1. Yuck. Here’s hoping we can all do better in the future.

NFL WEEK 5 ODDS FROM BODOG

Here are the betting lines for all the Week 5 showdowns in the NFL. My predictions are in bold print.

Colts -3 @ Texans +3

Titans @ Ravens (NO LINE YET)

Chargers -7 @ Dolphins +7

Chiefs +10 @ Panthers -10

Redskins +6 @ Eagles -6

Bears -3 ½ @ Lions +3 ½

Falcons @ Packers (NO LINE YET)

Seahawks +7 ½ @ Giants -7 ½

Buccaneers +3 ½ @ Broncos -3 ½

Patriots -3 @ 49ers +3

Bills -1 @ Cardinals +1

Bengals @ Cowboys (NO LINE YET)

Steelers @ Jaguars (NO LINE YET)

Vikings +3 ½ @ Saints -3 ½

For more gambling info, check out the following:

NFL Week Two Betting Odds from Bodog

Meet the Members of Team Bodog

Week 5 NFL Odds and Predictions from Bodog

EliteXC: Heat - Bodog Odds for Kimbo Slice VS. Ken Shamrock

EliteXC: Heat will be held on October 4th at the Bank Atlantic Center in Sunrise, Florida. Broadcast for free on CBS, the main event will feature the always-popular Kimbo Slice taking on veteran fighter Ken Shamrock. The smoking’ hot Gina Carano will also be on the card, and she may be headed for an eventual showdown with undercard attraction Cristiana Santos. Other familiar faces will also be featured, including Murilo “Ninja” Rua and Andrei “The Pitbull” Arlovski.

ELITE XC FINANCIAL TROUBLE

Elite XC is teaming up with fellow MMA company Affliction for this show, getting heavyweight champ Andrei Arlovski in the process. They need all the help they can get, as they have lost $55 million since 2006. Their financing runs out at the end of the year, and Dana White is chomping at bit to say “I told you so.” If they don’t have a huge show, this could be the end for EliteXC.

ELITEXC PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES

Here are a few of the best quotes delivering during the Elite XC: Heat press conference:

“Ken’s fighting in Florida, which is no place for an old man.” - Kimbo Slice

“I come from a bare-knuckle background, so fighting with gloves is like hitting with mittens.” - Kimbo Slice

“I am going to walk across the ring, hit him on his ugly beard and break his leg.” - Ken Shamrock

ELITE XC FIGHT CARD AND BODOG ODDS

As always, Bodog has all the odds for this upcoming fight card. If you don’t see odds listed for your favorite fighter, be sure and check back later, as Bodog will be adding more options prior to the event.

Main Card

Heavyweight Bout: Kimbo Slice -325 vs. Ken Shamrock +250

Welterweight Title Bout: Jake Shields -550 vs. Paul Daley +350

Heavyweight Bout: Andrei Arlovski -500 vs. Roy Nelson +300

Women's Bout: Gina Carano -625 vs. Kelly Kobald +425

Middleweight Bout: Benji Radach +190 vs. Murilo Rua -240

Preliminary Card

Women's Bout: Cristiana “Cyborg” Santos vs. Yoko Takahashi

Lightweight Bout: James Edson Berto vs. Conor Heun

Light Heavyweight Bout: Seth Petruzelli vs. Aaron Rosa

Welterweight Bout: Lorenzo Borgomeo vs. Mickey Gomez

Bantamweight Bout: David Gomez vs. Brett Jackowski

Lightweight Bout: Jorge Bouchat vs. Nicolae Cury

For more MMA action, click on the following links:

Brock Lesnar and Bodog Betting Odds

Ken Shamrock vs. Kimbo Slice at Elite XC

EliteXC: Heat - Bodog Odds for Kimbo Slice VS. Ken Shamrock