The New England Patriots are not the favorites to win this year’s Super Bowl in online betting but they are definitely a contender. Internet betting lists the Patriots at 10-1. They are behind only the Indianapolis Colts, New Orleans Saints, San Diego Chargers and Dallas Cowboys in Super Bowl odds.
Online betting a year ago was not as successful on New England as in previous years. The Patriots lost six times last year and many of them were frustrating losses as they led at the half in four of those games. The Patriots were outscored by almost 60 points in the second half of their six losses. Another problem for New England last year is that they played poorly on the road. New England were just 2-6 on the road a year ago. “When it comes down to it, games that we lose in the fourth quarter, games that we lose in the second half, or losing on the road like we did, that can be lack of trust, lack of confidence,” quarterback Tom Brady said on Boston radio station WEEI, “There are a lot of issues you have when that repeats itself time and time again over the course of the season.”
New England made the playoffs a year ago but they were blown out in online betting, losing 33-14 to Baltimore. Brady did not play well in the game as he threw four interceptions. The season was really one of frustration for the Patriots and they have made some changes heading into 2010. The team added free agent receivers Torry Holt and David Patten. It was Patten who played with New England from 2001-2004. He had some success with Brady throwing him the ball. The Patriots also get receiver Brandon Tate back from injury. They will need him because it is unlikely the team will get star receiver Wes Welker back until the middle of the season.
The Patriots finished last season ranked 3rd in total offense but they were only 11th in total defense. The Patriots open up the 2010 regular season at home as they host the Cincinnati Bengals. The Patriots will be favored in Internet betting in that matchup and it is likely the Patriots will be favored a lot in 2010. Their first four games are home against the Bengals, at the Jets, home vs. the Bills and at Miami.