Super Bowl matchup expected to break betting records

By Lonnie White, Los Angeles Times Staff Writer

The story lines behind the game between the undefeated New England Patriots and underdog New York Giants push many into the pool.

No one will be surprised to see this year's Super Bowl break all kinds of betting records because of the story lines connected with the New England Patriots and New York Giants.

For bettors who like heavy favorites, you have the undefeated Patriots, who have attracted big money for their games throughout the season.

Then there are the Giants, who have grown into the role as longshot underdogs through their impressive late-season run and the playoffs.

Patriots versus Giants. It's a matchup that's expected to shatter the Nevada state record handle for a Super Bowl, set two years ago at $94.5 million when Pittsburgh defeated Seattle.

Even though this year's Super Bowl is 11 days away, action for the game has already had an effect on the point spread.

Las Vegas Sports Consultants Inc. recommended the Patriots as 14-point favorites and most boards opened with them at 13 1/2 points. But by Tuesday afternoon, the line had dropped to 12 points in many places as a result of major support given to the Giants.

"The early wagers are from the professionals," said Ken White, chief operating officer of Las Vegas Sports Consultants. "The line is overinflated, due to the success of the New England Patriots this season.

"The general public will not wager until a couple of days before the game, which represents 80% of the money. . . . Look for the line to go back up to 13 or higher."

Another reason for the decline in the point spread could be the reaction to New England quarterback Tom Brady's foot or ankle injury. New York supporters probably jumped all over the news about Brady wearing a medical boot Monday.

But White said that may be a reach.

"If there was anything seriously wrong with Brady," White said, "he would've been on crutches."

More Super Bowl: This year's game has a good chance to become Nevada's first $100-million handle for a Super Bowl. And if Internet betting, private pools and street bets were added in, the matchup could easily generate more than $1 billion in wagering.

Last Super Bowl note: A total of $93 million was wagered on last year's game when Indianapolis defeated Chicago, 29-17. The Colts were seven-point favorites and the total was 47.

Do you guys agree with premise in here that if you like the Giants, you should wait to bet and if you like New England, get your money down now?

Absolutely. Line will go back closer to 14 by gametime as fears over Brady's cast go away and more public money comes in.