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Football is a sport that is full of surprises and unexpected outcomes. Throughout history, there have been numerous underdog teams that have defied the odds of in-person and online sports books to achieve remarkable victories. From college football to the National Football League (NFL), these underdog stories have captivated fans and inspired future generations. This article will explore how sportsbooks set betting lines and determine odds. It will also visit some famous underdog teams in college football as well as legendary and unbelievable upsets in the NFL.
Before diving into the underdog stories, it is important to understand how sportsbooks set betting lines and determine odds. Sportsbooks use a combination of statistical analysis, expert opinions and historical data to calculate the probability of a team winning a game. The odds are then set based on these calculations, with the favorite team having lower odds and the underdog team having higher odds. Whether it's wagering at one of the best casinos featured on Outlook India or placing a bet at a popular sportsbook, gamblers typically shop around for the best odds.
Factors such as team performance, injuries, weather conditions and home-field advantage are taken into consideration when setting the betting lines. Sportsbooks aim to create a balanced betting market, where they can attract bets on both sides of the game and minimize their risk.
College football has witnessed some incredible underdog stories over the years. These teams, often considered the "David" against their opponents, "Goliath," have shown great determination and resilience. Here are four famous underdog teams in college football that defied the odds:
1. Appalachian State Mountaineers (2007): In one of the biggest upsets in the history of college football, the Appalachian State Mountaineers defeated the heavily favored Michigan Wolverines. Despite being a Division I-AA team, the Mountaineers showcased their talent and shocked the football world by defeating Michigan 34-32.
2. Boise State Broncos (2007): The Boise State Broncos, known for their blue turf field, pulled off an incredible upset against the heavily favored Oklahoma Sooners in the Fiesta Bowl. Despite being 7-point underdogs, Boise State pulled off a series of trick plays, including a memorable Statue of Liberty play in overtime, to secure a 43-42 victory. This game is considered one of the greatest bowl game upsets in history.
3. Boston College Eagles (1984): Led by quarterback Doug Flutie, they faced the defending national champions, the Miami Hurricanes. With just six seconds left on the clock, Flutie threw a 48-yard Hail Mary pass that was caught in the end zone, securing a 47-45 victory for Boston College. This game is often referred to as the "Miracle in Miami."
4. Clemson Tigers (2017): In the 2017 College Football Playoff National Championship, the Clemson Tigers faced the Alabama Crimson Tide who were aiming for their fifth national title in eight years. Despite being considered the underdogs, the Tigers delivered a remarkable performance and clinched the championship with a last-second touchdown.
The NFL has also witnessed its fair share of underdog victories that have left fans in awe. These legendary underdog wins have become part of football folklore. Here are four unforgettable upsets in the NFL:
1. New York Jets (Super Bowl III): In Super Bowl III, also known as the "Miracle on Ice," the New York Jets, led by quarterback Joe Namath, faced the heavily favored Baltimore Colts. Despite being 18-point underdogs, Namath famously guaranteed a victory before the game. The Jets delivered on his promise, defeating the Colts 16-7 and solidified Namath's place in football history.
2. New England Patriots (Super Bowl XXXVI): The New England Patriots, led by quarterback Tom Brady, faced the St. Louis Rams - also known as the "Greatest Show on Turf" - in Super Bowl XXXVI. As 14-point underdogs, the Patriots secured a thrilling 20-17 victory with a game-winning field goal as time expired. The game marked the beginning of their dynasty and put Tom Brady on the map as he would eventually become arguably the greatest quarterback of all time.
3. New York Giants (Super Bowl XLII): Facing the undefeated New England Patriots, the Giants were given little chance of winning. Their defense put on a masterclass, though, sacking Patriots quarterback Tom Brady five times and holding the high-powered offense to just 14 points. With less than two minutes remaining in the game, NY quarterback Eli Manning orchestrated a game-winning drive, culminating in a touchdown pass to Plaxico Burress. The game is largely remembered by the "Helmet Catch" — an incredible play by Manning to escape tremendous pressure, and a spectacular catch by WR David Tyree. The Giants emerged victorious with a final score of 17-14, completing one of the greatest upsets in Super Bowl history.
4. Philadelphia Eagles (Super Bowl LII): In Super Bowl LII, the Philadelphia Eagles faced the New England Patriots, who were the defending champions. Despite being underdogs, the Eagles put on an offensive showcase and secured a 41-33 victory, winning their first-ever Super Bowl.
These underdog stories remind us that anything is possible in football. They inspire us to believe in the power of determination, teamwork and the ability to overcome the odds. Whether it's a college football team or an NFL franchise, underdogs have the potential to create history and leave a lasting impact on the sport.