No...

as you say... it's manipulating prospective bettors. Odd makers ain't in it due to fan enthusiasm.

So lets make a run at it ourselves. I think the Ram's should be the favorites in the NFC West... but then, I thought that last year and they started 0-4... and as much as I HATE admitting this I thought they were toast... or not quite toast but definitely on life-support.

This year #1... and I would place Seattle 2nd BUT.... Niners scare me....

They are going thru one major rebuild and I'm one of those who thinks Shanahan is a damn good coach and knows what he's doing. Don't agree with his game calling or planning but the man puts together talent. So I'm not writing off SF this year.... should they best Seattle I won't be shocked.. just a little surprised.

In the NFL I think the Ram's have a shot, a legitimate one. Can't pronounce them a 'favorite' BUT... I really don't see any other team, including the Eagles, as MORE likely. to make it.

I still think the AFC has the edge in the numbers of good teams.

And I'll finish with this... score that TD and win against the Eagles last year and the Ram's would currently be world champs... yes, they would have beaten the Chiefs. - JamesJM