AFC CHAMPIONSHIP ODDS

The difference between the New England Patriots with and without Tom Brady under center is obvious to even the most casual observer. With the talented quarterback set to make his return to NFL competition after a knee injury sidelined him for most of last year, the Patriots will start the new season as big favorites to win the AFC. The Pats are listed at +200 to capture the conference crown despite not even making the playoffs without Brady last season.

That's the difference Brady makes. The Patriots' offense should once again be one of the best in the NFL with Brady throwing to Randy Moss and Wes Welker. The last time the Patriots had that trio healthy for the entire season they went a perfect 16-0. That seems unlikely to happen again, but the conference title is thought to be New England's to lose.

If Brady and the Pats do stumble, which teams should be there to challenge for the championship? Look for the contenders to include San Diego or Pittsburgh. The Chargers may have barely limped into the postseason last year at 8-8, but they should bounce back with a strong regular season this year. At Sportsbook.com they enter the season as a +400 underdog to win the AFC. Playing in the weak AFC West, the Chargers are almost guaranteed six wins against their divisional competition. Injuries and bad luck plagued the Chargers last year, but as long as Phillip Rivers remains healthy San Diego should cruise to a division title and battle for their first conference title since 1994.

The Steelers are the defending Super Bowl champs and that has to earn them some respect. The oddsmakers at Sportsbook.com have given them +500 odds to capture the conference again. The Steelers boasted the best defense in the NFL last season, and despite showing some age at a few positions they should be among the best once again. The Steelers' offensive attack is dangerous as well, but they need to protect pivot Ben Roethlisberger more. Roethlisberger was sacked 46 times last season - second-most in the NFL - and an injury to him could derail the Steelers' offense.


AFC Championship Odds at Sportsbook.com

Win Only

• New England +200
• San Diego +400
• Pittsburgh +500
• Indianapolis +600
• Baltimore +800
• Tennessee +900
• Houston +1500
• NY Jets +2000
• Jacksonville +2500
• Miami +2500
• Buffalo +3000
• Cincinnati +3000
• Kansas City +5000
• Cleveland +5000
• Oakland +5000
• Denver +5000