After looking at Sportsbook.com’s “Betting Trends” for this weekend’s Divisional NFL Playoff picks, it appears as if the ‘betting public’ is deviating from its norm of routinely backing the favorite NFL picks. As most know by now, on any given weekend throughout the NFL season, bettors side with the favorites more often then not; usually upwards of 75-80% of the bettors don’t mind giving the points.

This weekend is a whole different story. Of the four games scheduled, ‘Joe Public’ sees value in taking the points in three of the games. After further analysis the popularity of the dogs this weekend isn’t too surprising considering they are all getting more than a touchdown to play with. Headed into the weekend 68% of the bettors recognize the fact that Seattle (+8) covered seven out of their last nine. About 57% of the early bettors recognize that Jacksonville (+13.5) is 5-1 ATS versus teams with a winning record this season while New England is 1-5 ATS in their last six games. Finally, an overwhelming 78% of the early bettors love the fact that New York (+7.5) is getting points considering they are 8-1 ATS away from home this season.

The only underdog that isn’t getting any love from the Sportsbook.com public this weekend is San Diego (+8.5) as 76% of the early bettors prefer Indianapolis. Even though San Diego is 10-3 ATS versus AFC opponents this season and covered four out of their last five times in Indy, bettors seem more concerned with the fact that star TE Antonio Gates most likely won’t play and that the QB match-up of Peyton Manning vs. Phillip Rivers is a bit lopsided.

“When the lines came out I was surprised by how many points San Diego was getting, considering they are on a 7 game covering and winning streak,” stated Sportsbook.com spokesman Dave Staley. “However, if the chronically average Phillip Rivers is without his top target (Gates), he could be in for a long day especially considering he will be facing a Colts defense that averaged 2.3 takeaways per game.”

All-Pro RB LaDainian Tomlinson will surely get plenty of touches on Sunday, especially with the uncertainty of Gates’ status. LT’s stats might have been down from his record setting 2006 campaign but top to bottom they were still the best of any RB this season. After an inconsistent first half of the season, LT dominated down the stretch averaging almost 6.6 yards per carry while getting in the endzone 7 times between weeks 13 thru 16. Indy’s rushing defense is much improved this season but they are still pretty mediocre surrendering almost 107 yards per game.

With plenty of money still to come in, be sure to monitor Sportsbook.com’s “Betting Trends ” throughout the weekend. By doing so, you will best be able to predict a possible line movement, therefore getting the best value for your play .

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