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Football Handicapper is Really in 'The Game'

LAS VEGAS, Nevada – Sept. 6, 2000--Veteran football handicapper Tobin Hensgen brings a succint philosophy to the business of betting sports.

"It's not whether you win or lose," he says, "it's whether or not you cover."

It's an outlook that should serve him well this fall, which marks Hensgen's debut as an entrant in the Las Vegas Hilton's "SuperContest."

Hensgen has been ranked in the top 10 by monitoring services Sportswatch and the National Handicapping Bowl during his 15-year career as a football handicapper.

This year he opted to duel with the big guns of football betting in the Hilton contest, which carries a $1,500 entry fee and will award a top prize of about $114,000.

"I could write a book about the preparation for a football season," Hensgen said recently at the Hilton. "As far as going up against the world's best handicappers ... I don't know what the heck to expect."

Hensgen has agreed to share his thoughts and opinions -- along with some NFL picks -- with the Sun throughout the season.

Observers can also follow his progress in the contest standings under the alias "The Game," which comes from the name of his website (www.thegame-nfl.com). There's also a link from Bill Valante's highly regarded website Sillysports.com.

Hensgen, a Chicago native who owns an MBA in telecommunications, uses computers in his football analysis as much as any modern-day bettor.

"I've been involved with computers and statistical studies for a long time," he said. "I develop my own set of power ratings, which is critical to success in handicapping whether you're betting on horses or the NFL."

Hensgen got out of the gate quickly in the Hilton contest, going 4-1 in Week 1. (Contestants pick five NFL games against the spread.) He had winners with the Panthers, Cardinals, Eagles and Jets; and the lone loser with the Titans.

Hensgen is holding off on his Week 2 picks until later in the week because of the numerous injuries around the league. But don't be surprised to see him going against the Redskins again (and again?) as the season progresses.

"I consider Washington the poster boy for an over-hyped NFL team," he said.

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