Super Bowl XLIV Odds: Patriots Top Steelers As Favorites

Is Tom Brady going to return to form in 2009? The sportsbooks certainly think so as the New England Patriots are the odds-on favorites to win Super Bowl XLIV. Despite the fact they didn’t even make the playoffs last season, Bill Belichick’s team is +550.

The defending Super Bowl Champion Pittsburgh Steelers are next at +900, followed by a couple of teams with a quarterback named Manning.

A year removed from their magical playoff run and Super Bowl victory, the New York Giants lead NFC contenders at +1000. The Indianapolis Colts are at +1200. Indianapolis enters year one of the post Tony Dungy era as Jim Caldwell takes over as head coach for the retired mentor.

While not exactly touting a long shot, Gary Cliborne, of the online casino site CasinoBettingNews.com, believes that Dallas at +1400 should be the favorites. “Terrell Owens wore out his welcome and will be addition by subtraction,” said Cliborne of the disposed controversial receiver. “But with Marion Barber, Felix Jones, and Tashard Choice, they have a running back rotation that could bring back memories of the 1972 Miami Dolphins” the only undefeated Super Bowl Champions in NFL history.

One of the top NFL betting odds experts ever Stevie Vincent, Senior Handicapping analyst for OffshoreInsiders.com said that if LaDainian Tomlinson returns to form the Chargers at +1400 are “the most talented team in the NFL.”

Those looking for possible value will want to grab the Minnesota Vikings at +1800, a number that will go down if they sign Brett Favre.

For more information: The top NFL handicappers and football betting tips are part of the Offshore Insiders Network.