Adding to his stuffed trophy case, The Wildcat captured first place over more than 50 foes in the 2006-07 edition of Playbook’s long-running Wise Guys Contest with an overall record of 25-11 (going 16-2 on top plays, and closing with 11 in a row). Including the 1997-2006 seasons in The Post, Cat’s 12-year record in print stands at 332-270 (55.1 percent) against the spread.
TOMORROW
Arizona (+7) over ARIZONA STATE: Blessed with an ideal schedule (six home games, plus two roadies against Stanford and Washington State), Dennis Erickson opened 8-0. Dates at Oregon and against USC sullied the dream. Not that the Sun Devils aren’t talented, but cluster offensive-line injuries are now a serious concern, especially when up against a blood-rivalry opponent boasting a dedicated defense, and the best quarterback (Willie Tuitama)/most imaginative offense Tucson’s ever hosted. Wildcats (+7) draw blood, for one unit.
SUNDAY
EAGLES (-3) over Seahawks: Both sides are coached by guys who frequently treat the rushing game like an ugly stepchild. Interesting that ‘Hawks have won the three games Shaun Alexander has missed, but expect him back for this. Brian Westbrook continues to shine for Philly, and if Donovan McNabb doesn’t go, AJ Feeley’s career record as an Eagles starter is more than adequate. Eagles might be better than good if they actually spent close to their full salary-cap allotment on viable talent. But “good” will do here against an outfit a long way from home, and cruising atop the softest division in the league. Eagles (-3) soar, for one unit.
LAST WEEK: 1-2 (minus one unit). Happy Thanksgiving, Brett Favre (Lions, minus one unit). Perfect game! (Maryland, plus one unit). Cat and David Carr harbor irreconcilable differences (Panthers, minus one unit).
SEASON: 14-14-1.
To contact Cat about his comprehensive advisory service, write PO Box 739, Hightstown, NJ, 08520, or visit http://www.thesharpmoves.com.