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After a final week of the NFL regular season that was less than spectacular, bettors are eager to again see football that matters. They get their wish this weekend as the four wild-card playoff games kick off the NFL postseason. Bodog has posted the odds.
"Although the regular season had its fine moments, the playoffs are when football gets truly exciting," says Calvin Ayre, Founder and CEO of Bodog. "With the unprecedented success rate of favorites, Bodog bookmakers had their work cut out to balance the action. Now it's time for the playoffs, so there's no rest for the weary."
With a 12-4 regular-season record, the Jacksonville Jaguars meet the New England Patriots (10-6) Saturday evening in Foxboro, Mass. Early betting action has been on the Patriots, who are 7.5-point favorites. The Jaguars, who are expecting the return of quarterback Byron Leftwich, face an uphill battle against the two-time defending Super Bowl champions.
The other Saturday game showcases a duel between two great football minds. Tampa Bay Buccaneers coach Jon Gruden leads his Buccaneers (11-5) against the Redskins (10-6) and coach Joe Gibbs. Early action has been on Tampa Bay , which opened as 3-point favorites.
On Sunday, the Cincinnati Bengals (11-5) play host to the Pittsburgh Steelers (11-5). Bookmakers, citing home-field advantage, originally opened lines with the Bengals as 1-point favorites. Bettors, clearly unimpressed with the Bengals' recent performances, responded by betting heavily on the Steelers. The current line sees the Steelers as 3-point favorites.
Also on Sunday, the Carolina Panthers (11-5) visit the New York Giants (11-5). The Giants will rely on running back Tiki Barber to carry their offense while hoping their defense can contain the Panthers' star receiver, Steve Smith. Bodog bookmakers opened the Giants as 3-point favorites.
For more information on Bodog's NFL wagers, see BoDog