It was a busy, but not overbearing week leading up to New Year, both booking and playing.

The dynamic has changed with nonstop action on bowls, final NFL regular season games and the opening week of the new-look NBA. So much to deal with and you probably just got done opening your last Christmas gift.

The bromide for years past is the bookmaker having many things to deal with so he figures to step in a few potholes, which will create some advantages for the players.

Next Sunday will be somewhat challenging as late info comes in as to whether frontline players take the field if their playoff seeding will not be affected by the outcome. That is on us and not on you.

Never before in booking the NBA have you seen drastic power ratings adjusted in just a few short weeks. Again that will be on us.

Don’t feel so bad. To a large degree we deal with human emotion and know that leads to your girlfriend giving you the pitch or your tranny just went out and it’s a dime to get it fixed.

Taking 13½ with the Bears on Sunday night and seeing the field goal team coming onto the field. All this going through your noggin and games flying at you at warp speed. This is what balances out to a level playing field with the week we all are facing.

Remember, most people bet teams and not numbers. So if you see something most have missed in this topsy turvy week, bet it! If it wins, cash it! If it loses, blame the one who gave you the "pitch."

Next week we can all use our New Year’s resolutions and start from scratch.

Take care, Jimmy V.

Jimmy Vaccaro is the director of sports operations for Lucky’s sports books.