Feature Story
Super Bowl XLI
Written by Frank 'The Ace' Rosenthal on February 03, 2007
Dolphin Stadium - The Host of the XLI Superbowl
Forecasting this Superbowl or any other game of chance is not "a piece of cake." To the contrary, it's just about equal to shooting craps in sin city. Regardless, let's give it a shot. The current line is split from 6.5 to 7 plus the juice, which may vary depending on your favorite bookshop. The totals: dropping rather quickly from 49 to 47.5… the top (CRIS) shop and one who does not move their line carelessly or without cause, reads colts-6.5 & 47.5…
Another industry leader, the fellows @ (Jazz) reads colts-7 dog 115, and 47.5…this top-shop deals to high level sharpies, and their lines are well respected.
When the line opened at 6.5 & 49 my thoughts were, "a bit on the cheap side. Rex Grossman vs. Peyton Manning is a man versus a boy." That hasn't changed, but here's what has. The colts on the road have just once covered by more than 7 and that's significant, but not totally compelling. So, let's look at the overall pros & cons for each side.
The big bad Bears:
Good offensive line, with 2 solid runners. Their receivers are above average. Their defense has been inconsistent, regardless of the fact that they held the leagues highest scoring (Saints) to 14 points in the Conference Championship. True, they did manhandle (Drew Brees) one of leagues premier quarterbacks. Grossman did not self destruct, and the Bears running game did just about whatever they wanted.
The Colts:
Super QB, and very talented receivers. Good running game. Their defense is anchored by all-pro Dwight Freeney, and Bob Mathis, who is reportedly banged-up, along with starting cornerback Nick Harper. Like they say - "6.5/7 is a lot of wood to chop." However, I wouldn't take it, nor would I lay-it. Under 49/48 is the "right side." Warning: the right side doesn't always win, but I'm there. Good luck!
Ps. Final score: Colts 27 - Bears 20