2012 NFL Schedule: Dallas Cowboys vs. New York Giants, Early Betting Odds

There's definitely a buzz within the sports betting community after today's NFL announcement that the Super Bowl champion New York Giants will host the Dallas Cowboys to kick off the 2012 season inside MetLife Stadium on Sept 5th.

BetOnline sports book has released the Giants as 3.5-point home favorites in this high-profile matchup between NFC East rivals that will be nationally televised on NBC.

New York swept last year's series, and rewarded sports bettors by covering the spread in each contest, including a 31-14 win as three-point home favorites in the regular-season finale on Jan. 1st.

The Giants won their final six games en route to lifting the Lombardi Trophy, capping the season with a 21-17 come-from-behind victory over the New England Patriots as three-point underdogs in Super Bowl XLVI inside Lucas Oil Stadium.

Dallas will be eager to get back on the gridiron after finishing the season with losses in four of their final five games. Before the collapse, the franchise seemed destined to win the division after moving its record to 7-4 following a 20-19 win over the Miami Dolphins on Thanksgiving Day in Week 12.

The Cowboys were also one of the more balanced teams in the National Football League statistically last year, ranking 11th and 14th in total offense and defense respectively.

A Super Bowl hangover is always something to consider in your early-season handicapping, but it's important to note that the last six defending champions have tallied a 5-1 against-the-spread record in their season opener.

I suggest taking the points with the Cowboys if you're looking for some early action, as this number will likely head towards three barring any major injuries.

Early Pick: Dallas Cowboys +3.5