By Dave Brower, Meadowlands Handicapper — Early Double Analysis — Saturday, December 4, 2021
Race 1
1 TORONTO – Waiting on a wakeup call for this fella. I guess he just got too high in class? Don’t be shocked if he turns in a much better effort from the pole tonight. I’ll be watching the tote board too! Has faced better along the way.
2 OREGON TRAIL – Not bad last week! Snaked through between horses late and had some kick to pick up a check. Made the trip worth it. Gets a better post for second recent go here. Should still offer a square price, if you like.
3 WALKNAFTER MIDNITE – Makes second east coast start for the new stable and first start on Lasix. Either factor could contribute to an improved effort. Did good work in Ohio last year. That 51 mile at Northfield is pretty good. Talented.
4 BETTEROCK – Might have the best chance of upending the fave. That one start here was solid. Went all the way out to Indiana for couple stakes and did okay. Back to Club Med and will be using his speed. So will #5. Good matchup!
5 BETTORS DONTTELL – I tried to tell you on-air last week that this guy had a big shot for the upset. Dave M drove perfect and they catapulted by the barnmate late. So, what do you do tonight? Will be closer to 7/5, not 7-1!
6 STRAIGHT TALK – Also in from Indiana. Looks like he had a few good moments out there, but racing at a very high level. Normally, this is supposed to be easier, but in reality it’s not! Stuck outside the faves. Lacks early zip too!
7 TRUFFLE DOG – Put a pretty good scare into Joe last week, so that’s a high-quality effort. But, is he in even tougher now? The answer might be yes. Poor horse has been suffering the bad post blues for a while now. It continues.
8 CAPTAIN ROMANCE – I guess he’s got to be considered the longshot tonight. I just don’t see how he reaches from way out here.
DRIVER CHOICES:
Scott Zeron 3 over 2 Tim Tetrick 5 over 6
Top Contenders 4-5-1-6
Race 2
1 PUT TO RIGHT – Amps up the class ladder despite getting caught last two up at the Ridge. New barn in play, so not sure what to expect. It’s not an easy spot, but I never take anything for granted with the Burke Brigade. They’re good!
2 BETTER TAKE IT – The Crew have two in, one good post, and one bad post. This guy also gets forced up the ladder here and this is the level where the waters get deeper. Wasn’t Tim’s choice, but I expected that. I’ll pass for now.
3 DA DELIGHTFUL – Yes, that was a very good try last week, but now he’s in too tough again. A longshot again.
4 DECISION DAY – Pretty consistent of late. And, at long odds. Might get a little more respect from the bettors tonight for the improved post. He’s got tons of back class, so not worried about that. At right price, toss onto the ticket.
5 STONE HANOVER – I don’t have a good history of guessing on this fella, but I do recognize that in a spot like this, he’s got a big chance! The post is perfect. That qualifier was strong. No reason not to like, except for possible short price.
6 SCHNITZLEDOSOMETHIN – The Schnitz has made some good appearances here in the past. Got a little more than a month off, which he probably needed. That qualifier at home base screams ready! Pretty hard to go against.
7 SAYING GRACE N – Not in a very good spot out here. He doesn’t usually leave, and the pace scenario in here may not be in his favor. Nice trip and perfect drive to beat the lesser group. Will have to step it up with even more now.
DRIVER CHOICES:
Tim Tetrick 2 over 1,7 Scott Zeron 5 over 4
Top Contenders 6-4-5-1
