The past two weeks, I was lulled into the trap of believing the Giants were a better bet at +12.  You know, since the Giants played the last game of the season so close, the 12-point spread seemed too high.  But you know what?  This morning I asked myself the question: who learned more from that last game of the season?  I’m going with Bill Belicheck and the Patriots.  Expect them to get a big lead early and force Manning to come from behind.  The rout will be on.

Full disclosure: I grew up in Maine, so I may be subconsiously biased in my analysis.

[POST-GAME EDITOR’S NOTE: I am reminded why I don’t bet on sports.  Congrats to the Giants, especially to their D-Line, on a game well-played.]