Monday, October 9, 2006

Baltimore Ravens at Denver Broncos

As Week 5 closes, the undefeated Ravens hope to be flying high at Invesco Field against the Broncos.

Line: Broncos -5½ (Opening: Broncos -4½)

Over/Under: 33 (Opening: 34)

Key Points: Both teams look relatively healthy going into their Monday night matchup with few bodies on the injury reports.

Baltimore TE Todd Heap and DE Terrell Suggs are both nursing thigh injuries but both are expected to play.

Of the few injuries on the Denver roster, only the usual suspects will miss the game, including DE Courtney Brown (doubtful, knee) and P Todd Sauerbrun who is serving the final game of his suspension for substance abuse.

Monday night numbers and trends: The Broncos have been feeling Mile High at Invesco winning 11 straight at home and are 33-14 ATS when facing teams with records above .500.

Although Denver is 0-1 ATS when favored at home this season.

Going into this week the Ravens were second only to the San Diego Chargers in defense, among the impressive stats, a league best 63.2 rush yards allowed per game.

Baltimore has paid out the last four times vs. Denver and has gone under 13 out of their last 18 vs. teams from the AFC West.

The Ravens have yet to lose on the road or while playing on grass this season.

Winneronline Opinion: It should be a good tight battle but the Broncos are rested and that could be of benefit. Take the Broncos to cover. No one would accuse you of being crazy if you took the under as well.