The set-up: I'm expecting these non-conference opponents to push the pace from start to finish and I look for this total to fly "over" sooner than later. Boston will be eager to get back on track here after a two-game losing streak ended in a 6-3 setback at Colorado on Wednesday. Dallas is also eager to get back on track after a listless 2-1 loss to Columbus on Monday. In fact, Dallas has lost four of its last five.

The pick: From a situational stand point, there's no doubt this one definitely sets up as a higher-scoring affair in my opinion. But it also sets up great from a trend based stand point, as note that Boston has seen the total go "over" in 18 of its last 28 road games when the total in the contest is set at 5.5, while Dallas has seen the total go "over" the number in five of six already this year at home when the total in the contest is set at 5.5. Play the "over."