The New England Patriots had the best regular season in NFL history last year, but they fell short of their main goal as they were upset in the Super Bowl by the New York Giants. The Patriots return this year as the top team according to NFL betting odds, but they will be challenged by Dallas and San Diego.
The Patriots are favored at +305, and they essentially have their whole squad back, although there is some concern around quarterback Tom Brady's foot injury, but the reigning MVP says he will be fine to go. The Patriots are also worried about Wes Welker, who led the league in receptions. Welker has been bothered by a rib injury for most of the offseason by a rib injury, and he is an integral part of the New England offense, as he opens up the field for Randy Moss. Defensively, the Patriots have to replace All-Pro cornerback Asante Samuel, who left for Philadelphia.
The Cowboys sputtered badly near the end of last season, especially their highly-touted offense that averaged just over 12 points over their final four games. Marion Barber will get the chance to prove he can carry a team's backfield, but the Cowboys need another receiver to pair with quarterback Tony Romo and All-Pro receiver Terrell Owens. Let's face it, Patrick Crayton is not a No.2 NFL receiver. Defensively, all eyes will be on troubled cornerback “Pacman” Jones and whether or not he can stay on the field and not in a jail cell. Based on talent alone, the Cowboys have Super Bowl odds of +350.
The Chargers are faced with a major decision, as All-Pro linebacker Shawn Merriman has decided to pass up surgery on two torn knee ligaments. One bad hit, and the Chargers lose one of the premier pass-rushers in the NFL. However, they still have LaDainian Tomlinson, who had a “down year” by his standards and still led the league in rushing. It will also be interesting to see if quarterback Philip Rivers is fully recovered from his knee injury. If Merriman's knee gives out, expect the Chargers' Super Bowl odds of +530 to drop dramatically.
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