Super Bowl Odds 2012: 15 Betting Strategies to Make Sure You Come Away a Winner

Super Bowl 2012 will surely break a record for the amount of money placed on a football game. The key is to find value when gambling as if it was the NFL draft.

The prop bets range from the intuitive to the ridiculous. However, there are a few ways to make some change.

There are also plenty of game-related options for those with football knowledge to scrounge up a few ducats. 

The following guide will provide specific bets varying form the length of the national anthem to the outcome of the game. Choose wisely, and you'll be able to call into work on Monday.

All odds courtesy of www.bovada.lv.

Eli Manning for MVP

If you believe the New York Giants are going to win, then lay your money on Eli Manning being the Most Valuable Player.

He's currently getting 9-4 odds, which is almost double the payout of the New York's money line (+115).

Since only three defensive lineman have ever won the award, it isn't likely that one of their vaunted trio of pass-rushers will garner the honor.

Eli is the most likely of the Giants to of win the MVP as Victor Cruz is next at 8-1. Additionally, this is a nice hedge if you like the New England Patriots.

Ahmad Bradshaw as Long-Shot MVP

Ahmad Bradshaw has yet to explode this postseason, but the storm clouds are gathering. 

The lightning portion of the thunderstorm duo with Brandon Jacobs has the ability to change games. He's a tough runner with a breakaway burst.

The New England Patriots boast a stout run defense, so this pick isn't sure to payoff at 20-1. However, laying a few dollars on it could yield big results.

It's called gambling for a reason.

Over 3.5 Peyton Manning Sightings

The payout of -130 isn't great, but consider this one easy money.

There are too many factors making it the obvious play.

The game is in Indianapolis, where Peyton Manning is playing out an uncertain scenario regarding his future. Additionally, it is being reported that he has been medically cleared to play, which only adds more intrigue.

Lastly, the game prominently features his little brother. If the Super Bowl is close, it's guaranteed they will cut to Peyton to capture his reactions.

Most Valuable Player Thanks Teammates First

The odds of 5-4 will not make you rich. However, it will be nice to have a winner.

The MVP is always surrounded by his teammates when handed the trophy. They just finished a grueling season enduring incredible amounts of adversity together.

There is no way the MVP isn't praising his teammates first and foremost. Especially considering that neither quarterback is known for his religious prowess, thanking God doesn't seem to the first priority. 

The National Anthem Goes Under 1:34

Kelly Clarkson is not a neophyte to the big stage. From American Idol to sold-out shows, she will not be intimidated by the moment.

She also isn't the type to drag out certain words or elements of the song. The link shows her flying through the national anthem in approximately one minute and 28 seconds.

That's too much leeway to go with the over considering both bets will cost you -120.

Eli Manning Throws for over 315.5 Yards

Do not be fooled that the odds are -135. The sacrifice of payout for promise is worth it.

The books want you to bet the under, which is why it is listed at +105. 

The New York Giants have Mario Manningham, Hakeem Nicks and Victor Cruz lining up opposite two former practice-squad players and a wide receiver.

Now is not the time to overanalyze it.

Hakeem Nicks Will Have over 11.5 Total Receiving Yards on His First Catch

Hakeem Nicks averaged 15.7 yards per catch in the regular season. He has increased that number to 18.6 in the postseason.

Again, gambling is all about value. Both sides of the bet are valued at -115, so there is no advantage to either side numerically.

Doesn't it seem intuitive that the New York Giants will attempt to slam into that tough, amped-up New England Patriots defense to start the game? Thus, they will need some serious yardage to move the chains.

It just makes sense.

Chad Ochocinco Will Have One Catch

This seems to be exactly what Bill Belichick would do. Chad Ochocinco, who has barely played this postseason, will end up with a couple catches in the Super Bowl.

With Rob Gronkowski not playing at 100 percent, the New England Patriots' alternate weapons will see a greater concentration of coverage. The former Pro Bowler should be able to find at least one hole in the defense.

Besides, you're already putting money on the national anthem.

Just don't put a lot of coin on this one.

The New York Giants over 27 Points And/or the New England Patriots over 28.5

The last 20 Super Bowl winners have averaged 31.6 points in the big game. Therefore, make a play on the team that you're picking to win.

If the New England Patriots win, the -120 odds provide a better payout than the money line (-135). However, if you take the New York Giants scoring over 27 points, you will receive a hedge against the Pats becoming champions.

These are two capable, high-flying offenses. Grab this opportunity for a little protection against your other selections. 

There Will Not Be Three Unanswered Scores

Again, both of these teams are capable of lighting up the scoreboard with the bevy of playmakers on both squads. 

The three-point spread indicates that this game will not be a blowout. 

In addition, this isn't basketball. Each team doesn't take turns making runs in football. 

Each side has an experienced quarterback and head coach who will not panic. At +150, the odds are too great not to take a chance.

BenJarvis Green-Ellis Scores the First Touchdown

The New England Patriots will open their first offensive drive by hitting wide receivers and tight ends. Tom Brady will be locked in while flinging the ball all over the field.

As Hank Stram liked to say, the Patriots will "matriculate" the ball down to the 7- or 8-yard line of the New York Giants. That's when Bill Belichick will unleash Law Firm up the gut for the necessary yardage. 

Tom Brady Will Have One More Completion Than Eli Manning

The odds are -115 for both sides, so the only value to be found is in the players themselves. The "Eli Manning is elite" movement may be warranted, but it is an established fact that Tom Brady is Tom Brady.

Therefore, take one of the best quarterbacks of all time when it comes to a duel between the two signal-callers. 

Additionally, the New York Giants have more talent in the backfield than the New England Patriots. That talent requires that the running backs be given the ball.

It just makes sense.

The First Half Will End in a Tie

The instant and following pick are high-odds plays. It's always fun to have a couple.

They're unlikely to hit, but you'll get paid if they do.

These teams will be trading punches throughout the first half, while keeping things close to the vest.

The Super Bowl usually isn't won in the first 30 minutes. However, it can be lost.

At +475, lay a couple dollars on the line. Let yourself dream a little. 

New England Will Score 32 Points Exactly

This slide is a preview of the pick to win. It was pointed out earlier that the winning team averages about 32 points per Super Bowl, so why not take a chance on 40-1 odds?

The New York Giants have a great defensive line with a mediocre secondary. There is little doubt that the New England Patriots offensive line has listened to people write them off all week.

Additionally, Randy Moss is no longer here. Bill Belichick will utilize shorter passes to his explosive playmakers to neutralize the Giants' pass-rushers.  

That extra motivation could be the spark to a large payday. 

New England Patriots -3 over the New York Giants

The teams are evenly matched physically, which is reflected by a three-point line. Thus, look to the intangibles.

Do you really want to bet against a revenge-seeking Tom Brady and Bill Belichick? In addition, those two are looking to cement their places in history as the best at their respective positions. 

Just as the offensive line hasn't forgotten, rest assured that neither has Brady or his coach. 

The Pats might be favored, but they have the feel of an underdog. The "nobody believes in us" factor cannot be discounted.

It's hard to find a single person who doesn't believe in the New York Giants after the recent run they've enjoyed. That will be the final nail in the coffin.

New England Patriots 31, New York Giants 27