Kern: Bettor way to wager on Super Bowl
FOR SOME reason that I've yet to figure out, I've done reasonably well on these Super Bowl prop bets. Which, of course, are for chuckle purposes only. Anyone can back somebody to win. But what other game lets you take a stand on anything from the coin toss to the halftime show? As long as it's all in fun and gives you something to cheer for other than more cold beverages. So bring it on.
FOR SOME reason that I've yet to figure out, I've done reasonably well on these Super Bowl prop bets. Which, of course, are for chuckle purposes only. Anyone can back somebody to win. But what other game lets you take a stand on anything from the coin toss to the halftime show? As long as it's all in fun and gives you something to cheer for other than more cold beverages. So bring it on.
I stay away from chalk. I'd rather bet less on more things that offer higher odds. I mean, the goal is to cash. So I'm not going to bang on anyone who takes Tom Brady to win the MVP and leaves it at that. I'd rather spread it around and take my chances. Sue me.
Let's start with the national anthem. I don't know Luke Bryan from Luke Skywalker, but I'm taking the under of 2 minutes, 15 seconds. Just because. Seven of the last 10 have gone under. It's called research. Bryan did it in 2:03 at the 2012 MLB All-Star Game. Just saying. If nothing else, it gives you a reason to watch. And time it. Could be close.
I like the longest field goal to be over 451/2 yards. Both kickers have shown they have that kind of range, and it's being played indoors. I'm going to take the Pats to win by both 1-6 points at 7-2, and 7-12 at 5-1. Their Supes have all been close, and they've won four of six with Mr. Hoodie.
The year Seattle scored first on a safety, I almost took it at 50-1. Been smacking myself ever since. In that same spirit, I'll say the game goes into overtime for the first time, at 7-1. Doesn't have to be a big bet. And it's bound to happen some year, like that safety. Just for kicks, I'll also take the game being tied at halftime and going to OT, at 50-1. Again, for something small. And I'll take the game being tied at halftime with both the Pats (18-1) and Falcons (22-1) winning. That way, I'm just rooting for a halftime tie. Which has happened only three times. But twice it involved the Pats (2005, 2015).
For first touchdown, I'll try Dion Lewis (12-1), Mohamed Sanu (15-1) and Danny Amendola (25-1). Root for Danny boy. And the third as the highest-scoring quarter (9-2). And Chris Hogan (7-1) to have the most receiving yards. Stab away.
Now for Lady Gaga, which I know everyone's been waiting for. I'm going with "Just Dance" as her first song, even though it might have a better shot at being the finale. And even though I'm an Elton John (10-1) guy, I'll take Tony Bennett (5-1) as the artist who'll perform with her. And while I was leaning toward George Michael (5-1), I've opted for David Bowie (5-2) as the artist she'll cover.
Got all that? May the force be with you. Or at least the challenge flag.
@mikekerndn