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Super Bowl 2025 could bring back defensive dominance in a high-scoring era

The Super Bowl's high-flying era may hit a wall this year. Experts say defences—and smart betting—could steal the show in 2025.

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Super Bowl 2025 could bring back defensive dominance in a high-scoring era

This year's Super Bowl could mark a return to lower-scoring games, according to veteran broadcaster Brent Musburger. He points to stronger defences and fewer hurry-up offences as key factors. Meanwhile, betting experts like Steve Fezzik and VSiN are offering strategies and predictions ahead of the big match.

Early Super Bowls often featured dominant defences and conservative play. In Super Bowl I, the Green Bay Packers crushed the Kansas City Chiefs 35-10, with Vince Lombardi's power-run philosophy controlling the game. The 45-point total was modest for the era, but defences ruled.

In Super Bowl III, the New York Jets upset the Baltimore Colts 16-7, with Joe Namath's offence breaking through a run-heavy league. The Jets' defence stifled the Colts, a contrast to today's pass-heavy schemes and rule changes favouring offences. By Super Bowl VI, the Dallas Cowboys' defence under Tom Landry held the Miami Dolphins to just three points in a 24-3 win. Such defensive dominance has faded in recent years, with high-scoring teams like the Chiefs setting new standards.

Betting trends reflect these shifts. Pro bettor Steve Fezzik advises checking prop lines an hour before kickoff to spot inflated odds and bet against them. Musburger, meanwhile, favours a prop bet on Sam Darnold throwing an interception, citing Darnold's struggles with interior pressure and Seattle's weak offensive line. The odds stand at -132 for "Yes."

Off the field, Musburger also joined a Super Bowl promotion with Jim McIngvale, aka Mattress Mack. He bought a mattress with a refund guarantee—if the Patriots win. VSiN is adding to the buzz with over 280 Super Bowl picks for its Pro subscribers.

The game's outcome may hinge on defensive strength rather than explosive scoring. Bettors are watching for last-minute line movements, while analysts note the shift from past defensive battles to today's high-octane offences. The mix of old-school strategies and modern betting trends sets the stage for an intriguing matchup.

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