Given the fact that the Cowboys have not started a season 5-0 since 1983, it is amazing that 94% of the early bettors at Sportsbook.com are betting against them. Then again, given the fact that they will face off against the 5-0 Patriots, perhaps this high percentage isn’t so amazing after all. An important trend that the public seems to not be taking into account is the value in home underdogs. Through the first five weeks of the season, home teams that were getting points are 17-8 ATS. Given that most bettors prefer backing the favorite, this scenario has wreaked havoc on the public’s betting accounts.

If the fact that both of these teams are undefeated wasn’t enough, there is plenty of media hype leading up to the game. Many believe this will be a preview of Super Bowl XLII. As a matter of fact, this match-up is currently the overwhelming favorite (5-2) to meet up in early February.

As for the game itself, most are expecting a high scoring affair considering each team’s high powered offenses. So far, the Pats and Boys are combining for 71.6 points per game. Even more impressive is that out of the combined 10 games, only one time did either of them fail to score 34+ (Dallas last Monday). It is no wonder; these two have each covered the OVER four out of five times. Just like the side, TOTAL betting has been pretty one sided as well. 69% of the early bettors that are taking advantage of Sportsbook.com’s -105 Fridays think this game will surpass the 53 point TOTAL. Bettors can’t ignore the equally impressive defensive numbers each has put up this season. Patriots’ opponents average only 13 points a game and the most they have given up was 17. The Cowboys only surrender 19.2 points per game and they have not given up an offensive touchdown in their last two games. If the Cowboys are going to surprise the public and keep this game close, it is imperative that they don’t turn the ball over. At +7, the Patriots have the best turnover margin in the NFL which could concern Cowboys faithful as Tony Romo is coming off a 6 turnover game.

Whether you are riding the public’s favorite or see value in home dogs, be sure to check Sportsbook.com’s betting trends to monitor any line movements. Also, back by popular demand this weekend is Sportsbook.com’s NFL Shutout Promotion. If you back a team on the money line and they get shutout, your will receive a full bonus refund.