Jim Feist

The Los Angeles Clippers (20-17) are set to host the Miami Heat (20-17) on Monday at Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California. The Clippers are coming off a 126-103 loss to the Denver Nuggets on Wednesday. Prior to that, they had won three consecutive home games, showcasing strong performances at Intuit Dome. The Heat secured a 119-98 victory over the Portland Trail Blazers on Saturday, indicating positive momentum as they continue their road trip. Norman Powell leads the Clippers with an average of 23.5 points per game (PPG). The Heat are led by Tyler Herro with 23.6 PPG, shooting 46.9% from the field and 86.2% from the free-throw line. The Heat are 20-17 O/U this season while the Clippers are 13-24. The Clippers have the worst over record in the NBA while the Heat are a top 8 over team. A bit of a contrast in styles here tonight but I look for the Heat to control the tempo. Today's total is right at 215 and the Clippers have at least 214 total points in their last four games with 229 or more in two of the last three games. I'm going to take the OVER here tonight.

The NFL Wild Card matchup between the Minnesota Vikings and the Los Angeles Rams is scheduled for Monday. Due to wildfires in Southern California, the game has been relocated to State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona. Minnesota Vikings finished the regular season with a 14-3 record, securing the No. 5 seed in the NFC. Despite their impressive record, they enter the playoffs as a wild card team after losing the NFC North title to the Detroit Lions in Week 18. Los Angeles Rams concluded the season with a 10-7 record, earning the No. 4 seed and the NFC West division title. They rested key starters in their Week 18 loss to the Seattle Seahawks, focusing on playoff preparedness. These teams met in Week 8 of the regular season, with the Rams securing a 30-20 victory at SoFi Stadium. In that game, quarterback Matthew Stafford threw for 279 yards and four touchdowns, effectively countering the Vikings' aggressive defense. Minnesota Vikings Sam Darnold (QB) completed the regular season with 4,319 passing yards and 35 touchdowns, ranking fifth in the NFL for both categories. His performance in the playoffs is crucial for the Vikings' success. Justin Jefferson (WR) recorded 1,533 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns, leading the league with 28 receptions of 20-plus yards. His deep-threat capability is a significant asset for Minnesota's offense. Rams' Matthew Stafford (QB) brings extensive playoff experience, having led the Rams to the postseason in three of his four seasons with the team. His ability to handle pressure situations is a key factor for Los Angeles. I have to believe the relocation of this game and fires in So. Cal will have some effect on this Rams team. Look at the LA Chargers over the weekend, they were trounced by the Texans. The Rams lose a home game here on Monday against a better team. Take the Vikings.

 The Southern Conference matchup between the Furman Paladins and the Wofford Terriers, originally scheduled for January 11, 2025, has been rescheduled to Monday, January 13, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. due to winter weather conditions. Holding a 14-2 overall record, the Paladins are 2-1 in conference play. They secured a 67-63 victory against The Citadel Bulldogs on January 8, 2025. With an 8-8 overall record and a 2-1 mark in the Southern Conference, the Terriers are coming off a 77-69 win over Western Carolina on January 8, 2025. Furman Paladins average 70.9 while allowing 66.8 ppg. Pjay Smith Jr. is averaging 16.7 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game, shooting 50.0% from the field and 47.7% from beyond the arc. Wofford Terriers are averaging 70.3 ppg while allowing 73.1 ppg. B.J. Anderson scored 23 points in the recent game against Western Carolina, indicating his offensive capabilities. Furman boasts a strong offense, averaging 70.9 points per game, and a solid defense, allowing 66.8 points per game. Their efficient shooting and balanced attack make them a formidable opponent. The Paladins also have home court. A lot of items line up on the home team side today. Play Furman.

The Elon Phoenix are set to host the Campbell Fighting Camels in a Colonial Athletic Association (CAA) matchup on Monday at the Schar Center in Elon, North Carolina. Holding an 11-5 overall record, the Phoenix are 2-1 in CAA play. With a 7-9 overall record, Campbell also stands at 2-1 in conference games. The Phoenix have been strong at home, boasting a 6-0 record at the Schar Center. They are averaging 80.3 points per game while allowing 65.4 points to opponents. The Fighting Camels are coming off a 66-55 victory against the Hampton Pirates, where Jasin Sinani led the team with 21 points. They average 71.7 points per game and have outscored opponents by an average of 6 points per game. Elon is led by Nick Dorn with an average of 15.3 points per game, Dorn is a significant offensive threat. Campbell is led by Jasin Sinani averaging 13.1 points and 5.3 rebounds per game, Sinani is a key player for Campbell's offense. Elon's perfect home record and scoring advantage will have me on that side tonight. Play Elon.