Ravens vs. Patriots Predictions: Best Prop Bets for AFC Championship Game

The 2013 AFC Championship Game may feature the same exact teams as last year, but it promises to be an exciting matchup between two of the better franchises in the NFL.

There’s also a ton of storylines, great players and much more to tickle your fancy, but those who need constant, edge-of-their-seat action should look into placing a few wagers down.

While most bettors will gamble on the point spread and over/under and leave the rest be, some of the more adventurous types will start getting into prop bets. We’re here to help with those, so keep reading for our advice and picks on some of the better props in this contest.

*Prop bets and odds courtesy of ScoresAndOdds.com.

 

Will Either Team Score in the First Five-and-a-Half Minutes?

Our pick: Yes (-115)

We believe that there will certainly be a quick strike in the first few minutes of this contest, as both offenses are capable of making big plays and are fresh off wonderful performances.

There isn’t a ton of value in the bet (risking 1.15 units to win 1.0), but betting on “No” requires the same risk vs. reward.

Considering these defenses are more known for their opportunistic tendencies rather than straight-up stoning their opponents, we foresee an easy field goal coming early in the contest.

 

Which Player Will Score First Touchdown?

Our pick: Tom Brady (+1800)

While we do believe the first actual score will be a FG in the early moments, eventually some touchdowns are going to go up on the board.

We like a long shot in Tom Brady—a master of the QB sneak play—at 18/1 to punch it in. There have been plenty of times over the years that he has marched his offense down to the goal line and punched it in with a quick snap and a dive.

If you aren’t sold on Brady, some other great candidates for the first TD include Ray Rice and Aaron Hernandez at 8/1, Shane Vereen at 10-1 and Anquan Boldin at 12/1.

Will There Be a Defensive or Special Teams Touchdown?

Our pick: Yes (+150)

As mentioned earlier, these are two extremely opportunistic defenses. Both the Ravens and Patriots corners and safeties are adept at picking off passes and often take risks to accomplish this.

Outside of a possible pick-six, we are dealing with great special teams units with electrifying returners. There will be a looming threat of a punt or kick being brought to the house in this one.

Of course, you can’t discount fumble recoveries, either. Each squad will continually try to force the ball out. Both squads also possess the speed to take one in for a score if the ball is cleanly recovered.

At plus-150, we think this is one of the most valuable props on the board. Taking “No” at minus-180 seems foolish.