Super Bowl XLVIII: My Predictions

It is a Super Bowl matchup that many predicted at the beginning of the season (not me).  The high-powered offense of Denver, led by one of the greatest quarterbacks of all time, versus the Legion of Boom and  a defense that has been able to play up to all of their self-proclaimed hype this season.  It is just unfortunate that a Super Bowl matchup that has all the makings of a great game has the potential to be marred by an inclement East Coast winter.  Fortunately, per my most recent weather check, it appears as though the Super Bowl will most likely avoid snow.   Let’s take a look at the final matchup of the NFL season. 

Seattle Seahawks (13-3) vs. Denver Broncos (13-3) @ Met Life Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ

Sunday, February 2^nd, 6:25 PM ET (Current Line, Broncos -2.5)

There is plenty to talk about in this matchup.  The #1 defense vs. the #1 offense.  The unreasonable amount of hate Richard Sherman is receiving.  Peyton Manning’s legacy, and how NFL pundits are already deciding how this one game will define his entire NFL career.  The unreasonable amount of love Sherman is receiving in response to all the hate he is receiving.  The constant talk about how Moreno is an underrated running back.  Lynch not talking to the media.  How Peyton plays poorly in cold weather.  Lynch’s love for Skittles.  Peyton Manning’s looming retirement.  And, the 12^th man (which won’t even be at the game). 

Anyways, I am just going to give my prediction, since sports outlets have already exhausted all of these topics.  And more importantly, I will provide some insider information to some of the Super Bowl’s most intriguing betting options. 

Prediction: We get a back and forth game, and at halftime, the score is 10-10.  I spend halftime watching Animal Planet’s “Puppy Bowl” halftime show and miss the opening kickoff, which is returned by Trindon Holliday for a touchdown.  However, the Seahawks come back and lead 24-20 with less than 2 minutes to play.   The Broncos drive down the field and with 12 seconds left, Manning throws a 7 yard touchdown pass to Decker on an over-the-shoulder fade route to the back left corner of the end zone.  Broncos win 27-24.

More Great Betting Opportunities

The Coin Toss

A classic.  Heads or Tails.  It is not as simple as one might think.  The coin toss has come up Heads in 5 straight Super Bowls and seems to have a lock on this era of the NFL.  However, I’m sure we all remember Tails’ most dominant era is Super Bowl history, Super Bowl 32-40 (1998-2006), where Tails came away with 8 of 9 tosses.  However, Heads is showing unprecedented dominance, as this 5 flip streak is the longest streak in Super Bowl history.  With all this information at my disposal, the choice seems obvious.   

Prediction: TAILS.  The flip is slightly lower than usual, not allowing Heads to gain its usual advantageous position.  Tails makes a quick move for top spot on the Super Bowl field, and after 22 rotations in the air and three bounces on the ground, Tails is victorious. 

Will Wes Welker Drop a Pass?  (Even)

If the ball touches the phalanges, you gotta make the catch.  The prior sentence is not relevant to my prediction. 

Prediction: YES.  Welker drops 3 passes in the first quarter and is benched at halftime.

What Number Will the First Player to Score a TD be Wearing? (Over/Under 79.5)

I see the first touchdown coming on the ground because my psychic told me so.    

Prediction: UNDER.  Moreno or Lynch will score first.

Who will be seen on TV first, Pam Oliver (46%) or Erin Andrews (54%)?

I’m leaning towards Oliver here, even though she is the slight underdog.  I think Andrews is a little overhyped because of the attention that her interview with Richard Sherman received.

Prediction: OLIVER shines in an epic initial Super Bowl appearance. 

Will Knowshon Moreno cry during The National Anthem? (3/2)

I’m thinking Knowshon Moreno is all out of tears after crying before the Broncos-Chiefs game.  I’m going with the odds here. 

Prediction: NO.

Over/Under 47

I predicted a score of 27-24 above.  Peyton Manning leaves it late, but with his final touchdown pass, we will all be celebrating victory, as our bet on the “Over” pays off. 

Prediction: OVER

So, drink a beer.  Make some bets.  Laugh at some commercials.  Avoid the halftime show (but don’t miss the kickoff).  And hopefully we can all enjoy a memorable Super Bowl.  I will be wearing my Nnamdi Asomugha jersey.  Go Raiders.