20* Heat/Hawks NBA on TNT Total ANNIHILATOR on OVER 188.5

Miami vs. Atlanta, 01/05/2012 20:00 EDT, Score: 116 - 109

Total: -107/+188½ Over

Sportsbook: 5Dimes

Result: Win

The Miami Heat have changed their philosophy this season, and I'm going to continue to ride their OVERS early because of it. Miami coach Erik Spoelstra visited Oregon football coach Chip Kelly to gather in as much information as he could this offseason. His goal was to learn about the pace and space philosophy, which he has installed in Miami.

The Heat are looking to fast break every chance they get to maximize the athleticism on this team, which is clearly the best in the NBA. They have been scoring at will in the early going. Miami is averaging 108.3 points/game this season while allowing 95.7 points/game, which is an average combined score of 204.0 points/game. That number is well above tonight's posted total.

Miami and Atlanta combined for 192 points in their first meeting. Atlanta won that game 100-92 as Miami wasn't able to execute their pace and space offense. Look for the Heat to execute a lot better tonight while also pushing the tempo more than they did in the first meeting.

The OVER is 12-4-1 in Miami's last 17 games as a favorite. The OVER is 11-5 in Miami's last 16 games vs. Eastern Conference opponents. The OVER is 5-0 in Hawks last 5 games after scoring less than 75 points in their previous game. Oddsmakers have missed their mark badly tonight. Bet the OVER in this game Thursday.