The set-up: Pittsburgh dropped its first two games, but it then won its second two. All four Penguins' games have flown over the posted number this year, but I think that this game vs. the Rangers, who hit the road for their first trip away from friendly confines, sets up as more of a defensive affair. The Rangers are off a 4-3 loss to the Devils. Alexandar Georgiev posted a shutout in his first start, but allowed four goals in that setback. New York will be especially focussed here, as dating back to last season it has just one road win over its last seven.

The pick: Pittsburgh's mortal enemy is Washington, and after two straight victories over it, including a 5-4 shootout win in the second, I think a predictable mental letdown is in the cards here vs. the lowly Rangers. Let's not over-react to early offensive and defensive numbers, but instead use our heads and look at the situation as the way we base our selection today. I'll finally point out as well that the Pens have seen the total go "under" the number in eight of their last 11 home games after scoring four or more goals in an overtime or shootout in their previous outing. This number is high, the plays is the under.

This is a 10* TOTAL BLOOD-BATH on the UNDER Rangers/Penguins.