Super Bowl Odds 2012: Why the Smart Money Is on the New England Patriots

The New England Patriots are currently three-point favorites over the New York Giants in Super Bowl XLVI. After the season Tom Brady and the Patriots have had, the smart money is on them in Sunday's big game.

New England has won 10 straight games, and over that span the Patriots have averaged 35.9 points per game. While the Giants have played well of late, New England has been so good, I'm not sure New York has the firepower defensively to stop Brady and his offense.

The Patriots finished the regular season ranked second in the NFL in total offense, averaging 428.0 yards per game. They were also second in passing yards, averaging 317.8 yards per game.

The Pats will line up against a Giants team that was abysmal defensively. New York finished the season ranked 27th in total defense (allowing 376.4 yards per game) and 29th against the pass (allowing 255.1 yards per game). 

With the way New England is currently playing, things shape up very well. This matchup clearly favors the Patriots and their explosive offense, even if the Giants can move the ball when they have it. 

This game will come down to whether or not New York can slow down and even stop Brady from chewing up yardage through the air. While the Giants have a great pass rush, New England boasts a fantastic offensive line that doesn't allow much pressure. 

When you consider that the Patriots have been on such a long winning streak, and given how well the offense has played lately, the smart money is on them to come away with a world championship.