Bobby Burack
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Cam Newton’s agreement to join the New England Patriots noticeably shifted the odds for the upcoming NFL season. On Fox Bet, since the news came out, the Patriots’ chances to win the Super Bowl increased from 25/1 to 16/1. Similarly, New England’s odds to win the AFC went from 10/1 to 7/1.
Cam Newton to the Patriots just changed things majorly ?
— FOX Bet (@FOXBet) June 29, 2020
New England has the third-best odds in the AFC, with a steep fall after the Chiefs (+600) and Ravens (+650). That’s high for the Patriots. Yes, signing Newton is low-risk, high-reward. But let’s not assume the latter will be fulfilled.
Newton’s health is a major question mark and he’s now surrounded by the worst offensive cast of his career. There’s also a history of players failing to meet expectations who don’t fit the “Patriot Way.” Which he likely won’t after the first press conference following a loss.
The Patriots, today, are not a better team than their division rivals, the Bills. Buffalo, at +2800, is an appealing bet. Sticking with the AFC, Houston remains the best value bet on the board. At +5000, you are getting a top-five quarterback, who routinely makes fools out of his doubters. I wouldn’t take New England over Houston head-to-head. Let alone with that type of value.
By the way, are we sure Newton will start or finish the season as the starter? What are those odds?
