posted September 6, 2007 at 17:33 in NFL Betting Trends

Tonight's match up between the New Orleans Saints and Indianapolis Colts figures to be an offensive juggernaut, but should the NFL betting community invest on the over with the total listed at 53?

On paper, this game should go over. But keep everything in mind and be careful buying into the high total displayed in the NFL odds.

This first game of the year features two offensive powerhouses that's being played on primetime television creating a contest that many ''squares'' (general betting public) will be getting down on. These types of highly profiled games force oddsmakers to bump up the total, because the majority of money will be wagered on the over.

Let's face it, who wants to root on teams to not score? For that reason, the over becomes a popular play amongst betting novices. Indianapolis scored 26.7 points per game last year as the NFL's third-best offense, while the Saints put up 25.8 which was fifth-best.

The Colts' offense is led by none other than quarterback Peyton Manning himself, who completed 65 percent of his passes for 4,397 yards, 31 touchdowns and a career-low nine interceptions during the 2006 regular season.

Quarterback Drew Brees was equally as impressive last year for the Saints. New Orleans led the league in total offensive yards (6,387), passing yards (4,503) and scored a franchise-best 416 points. Brees threw for 4,418 yards and 26 touchdowns.

Before letting these staggering numbers influence you, take into consideration both offenses are created around quarterbacks who heavily rely on timing. Both play callers performed like well oiled machines last season, but it may take a game or two before they reach that status again this year.

Defensively, both clubs allowed their fare share of points in 2006 but they were better than what sports betting enthusiasts may think. Indy gave up 22.5 points per game and the Saints a respectable 20.1.

It should not be expected for each team to immediately pick up where they left off last year. Rust and fatigue should be kept in mind. This could have an impact on offense until players reach game shape.

As they take center stage this evening, as millions watch, jitters could play a role preventing the offenses from exploding early in the game. This makes betting on under 24 -115 in the first half a solid selection.

The 2007 NFL betting season is here in full force! If you like to bet on the NFL, you are in the best possible place for online betting. The BetUS sportsbook has NFL odds up on a ton of futures, and you will also find NFL lines up for early games as well. Join BetUS today and we'll help guide you right through to Super Bowl XLII and beyond!