Sean Murphy

My selection is on New Orleans plus the points over Utah at 8:05 pm et on Thursday.

The Jazz are red hot right now, winners of 10 games in a row. I do expect them to face a stiff challenge in New Orleans on Thursday night, however. While the Jazz are on top of the league rankings in offensive rating over their last 10 games, the Pelicans also find themselves inside the top 10 in that category. While New Orleans sits inside the top 10 in pace rating as well, Utah is in 21st over its last five contests. I simply like the way the Pelicans are playing right now and certainly feel they'll be up for this showdown at home. Take New Orleans (10*).

My selection is on Marshall minus the points over Charlotte at 7 pm et on Thursday.

I'll lay the points with Marshall in this spot. Charlotte has yet to lose a game in January, going a perfect 3-0. Only one of those wins was of the impressive variety, however. That coming at home against UAB on January 2nd. Note that the 49ers have won just once in five tries on the road this season and that came against 5-14 NC-Wilmington. Marshall has split four games so far this month. Keep in mind, both of the Thundering Herd's losses came against winning opposition including an 11-point setback at aforementioned UAB last time out. Look for them to get back on track here. Take Marshall (10*).