This is close to my 50th NFL season of 'capping games and I must admit this year reminds me a little of the year the Rubik's cube came out. Man, I tried and tried to solve that thing. I know I tossed more of them into the drink than I ever completed. I do recall the day I finally "cracked the code"... the truth is, it took me the better part of one month but I finally got it done. I was so proud! Thank god the internet didn't exist then, I might have committed Hari Kari ! Now, at the touch of a button, you can witness someone solving the "puzzle" in under 20 seconds. VERY DEPRESSING!
The fact remains that I have been successful for most of those close to 50 years eking out a profit albeit a very few bucks in the leanest years. This year has presented a very different approach to successful handicapping.
It started when the flags started to fly in the preseason at an alarming rate. That precedent has carried through into regular season games. Don't get me wrong, I understand that there will be missed calls. Human error has always been a factor in professional and collegiate sports and I accept that. However, when questionable (to put it politely) calls are made that influence the out come of games to the degree they are today, it's time to take a stand.
It's no secret that I'm a 49er fan, the truth is I'm a FOOTBALL fan, regardless of your team of choice. I want a level playing field for all. When a third party (officials) is empowered to the point where they actually supersede the teams playing the game, the game loses it's value no matter which side you are on.
Wagering on the games has become a "coin flip" at best unless you consider the rule changes which may give an advantage to the astute totals player. I'm not sure where we are heading with regard to the "New NFL" but so far, I don't like what I see...
Good Luck Handicappers!