Once a day leading up to Super Bowl XLIX and on game day itself, we will discuss one of the many proposition bets (“props”) Nevada sports books offer on Patriots-Seahawks.
Then, we’ll turn to you and let you decide what side of the bet you would take. (Hypothetically, of course.)
We’ll call it “PFT’s Prop Challenge.” After the Super Bowl, we’ll tally the results, with each vote one hypothetical betting unit.
Then, we’ll see if PFT Planet is ready for the high-roller room at one of Terry Benedict’s casinos.
So let’s get down to business.
The first prop comes courtesy of the Westgate Las Vegas SuperBook, which has set an Over-Under on the Super Bowl receiving yards gained by Patriots wide receiver Brandon LaFell.
The Over-Under is 50.5 yards.
Both the OVER and UNDER have the standard house vigorish, meaning bettors have to lay $11 to win $10.
Now, a few data points.
Since moving into the starting lineup in Week Three, LaFell has averaged 65.2 receiving yards per contest, exceeding 50.5 yards receiving in 11-of-16 games (including the postseason).
That’s the good news for those who like the OVER.
Now, the bad news.
Seattle has given up more than 50.5 receiving yards to just 11 wide receivers this season: Jordy Nelson, Green Bay (twice); Randall Cobb, Green Bay (twice), Kelvin Benjamin, Carolina (twice); John Brown, Arizona (twice); Emmanuel Sanders, Denver; Wes Welker, Denver; DeSean Jackson, Washington; Dez Bryant, Dallas; Terrence Williams, Dallas; Odell Beckham Jr., N.Y. Giants; Preston Parker, N.Y. Giants.
Of course, there are multiple ways to hit the OVER. Perhaps the Patriots fall behind early and have to pass throughout. Recall how pass-happy they were in the second half of the divisional-round win vs. Baltimore.
Now, the question: do you like the OVER or the UNDER on 50.5 receiving yards for Brandon LaFell? In short, does he exceed 50.5 yards or finish with less than that total?
Let us know via the poll and in the comments, and check back Saturday for the next prop, which will be Seattle-related.