The defending champion San Antonio Spurs have really elevated their game as the playoffs approach. They beat the Oklahoma City Thunder by a score of 113-88 last night, and they look to keep the ball rolling as they host the Rockets tonight. I think these teams should bring plenty of defensive intensity in a game between two playoff teams, and the total looks a little high.

Here are my keys to the game:

1. Home Cookin' - The Spurs have held opponents to an average of less than 90 points during a seven game home winning streak. We've also seen 17 of the Spurs last 25 meetings home meetings with Houston go under the total.

2. Injuries - The Spurs have the luxury of depth off the bench, but with a player of the caliber of Tony Parker sidelined by injury, it could slow the offense a little.

3. X-Factor - The under is 6-1 in Rockets last 7 road games vs. a team with a home winning % of greater than .600.

Selection: This is a play on the Rockets@Spurs to go UNDER the total (10*)