Why NASCAR bettors are racing to back Nevadans against Tar Heels

Of the myriad betting propositions on Sunday’s UAW-Dodge 400 at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, one best reflects the ever-changing NASCAR landscape.

It’s available at the sports books at all Station Casinos properties, and it pits drivers from Nevada against drivers from North Carolina in Sunday’s Sprint Cup race. Winning wagers will be determined by which group has the better finish in the race.

“Traditionally you think of North Carolina as the epicenter of everything having to do with NASCAR,” said oddsmaker Micah Roberts, sports book director at Sunset Station, who created the prop. “But if you think about it some more, there are really only five drivers currently in North Carolina, whereas 15 years ago there probably would have been 20 drivers.”

Haney's odds on the field at the National Heads-Up Poker Championship

Coming off his victory in last year’s 64-player field, Paul Wasicka will enter the fourth National Heads-Up Poker Championship as one of the favorites.

To win the $500,000 top prize again this weekend at Caesars Palace, Wasicka will have to outlast another tough field of top “live game” players, Internet poker stars and celebrity invitees.

Taylor handles loss like a true pro

What is wrong with Jermain Taylor, anyway?

His attitude appears way out of line for a modern, big-time professional athlete.

After 30 pro fights, hasn’t he learned the etiquette that governs how to behave after losing a close decision?

You’re supposed to act outraged. Claim bias. Denigrate your opponent.

It’s de rigeur to make a three blind mice reference, and virtually mandatory to declare you (all together now) “don’t know what fight they were watching.”