Before this weekend, just five NFL playoff games since 1966 have featured a team favored by at least 15 points. Just one of those underdogs won the game (Google “Joe Namath” if you need more information on that).
Oddsmakers don’t think Brock Osweiler should guarantee the 16-point underdog Houston Texans can beat Tom Brady and the Patriots in New England. In fact, even if Brady were not playing, the Patriots would be favored by nearly two touchdowns.
“Normally, he is worth six to seven points to the spread, depending on the opponent,” said Scott Cooley, spokesman for BookMaker, an offshore book and casino. “But in this situation it changes a bit because the Patriots have a very capable backup in Jimmy Garappolo, who we’ve seen perform well in meaningful games. If Brady wasn’t playing this weekend, we would make the Patriots 12- to 13-point favorites.”
The Patriots (14-2) beat the Texans 27-0 in Week 3 with third-string quarterback Jacoby Brissett leading the way.
Brady, of course, will be under center against the Texans and he’s playing some of his best football. He’s taking nothing for granted because coach Bill Belichick wouldn’t have it another way.