When scanning the preseason futures for the NFC representative for the Super Bowl, plenty of names come to mind. When betting, however, we are not necessarily best served in going with the chalk or favorite. Let us look at some of the contenders, as well as eliminate the pretenders and see if we can find some true value in our NFC Super Bowl pick before the 2009-2010 NFL season begins.

Not Even Close
Several NFC Teams can be outright eliminated from conversation, as they are nowhere near the level it takes to speak the words Conference Champion in the NFC. Scratch Detroit and St. Louis from consideration.

The Chalk
Currently, the Eagles and the Giants at nine to two odds are the odds on favorite to head to the Super Bowl. While both teams are NFC powerhouses, and certainly capable of Super Bowl contention, the nine to two odds seem a bit overstated for action on either of the two sides.

The Contenders
The Dallas Cowboys, plagued by injury and locker room drama are back a year later, and plenty wiser. After releasing TO in the off-season, as well as ditching Adam Pac Man Jones, the Cowboys are ready to make a bid for the online football betting Super Bowl in drama-free fashion. At seven to one odds, the Cowboys could offer some bang for your buck in the futures market.

While Dallas may be a value at seven to one, I find the Vikings a bit overpriced at the same odds. Quarterback issues, especially since Brett Favre is not coming back are sure to plague this talented team.
Atlanta, Carolina and the Saints each come in at ten to one odds. While each team has a shot at the Super Bowl, only a healthy New Orleans team has the firepower to make a convincing run. At ten to one odds, they are a possibility.

The Defending Champs
You did not think we forgot the Super Bowl rep from the NFC, did you? The defending NFC Champion Arizona Cardinals receive little preseason loving at twelve to one odds. While the Sports Books surely factor in that last year’s Super Bowl run was a fluke, this is a value bettor’s dream come true. The Cardinals boast the league’s most potent aerial attack led by Kurt Warner and the most talented receiving trio in the league with Fitzgerald, Bolden, and Breaston. Add into the mix the upgrade in what was a virtually non-existent running game, and you have yourself a legitimate Super Bowl contender.

At nfl odds of twelve to one, I see tremendous value in betting a return to the Super Bowl by making Arizona my NFC Champion. The other teams do not speak nearly the value the Cardinals line is presenting. My money is on the Cards.