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Seahawks Remain 4.5-Point Favorites Despite Key Injuries

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Tuesday, February 3rd 2026 at 12:31 GMT by WTOP News
      Locales: Massachusetts, Washington, UNITED STATES

Glendale, Arizona - February 3rd, 2026 - As the hype surrounding Super Bowl LXI builds, the Seattle Seahawks remain the 4.5-point favorites over the New England Patriots, according to leading sportsbooks like BetMGM. However, the initial lines established earlier today have already seen significant movement, fueled by crucial injury updates and a surge in public betting.

The Seahawks opened as comfortable favorites, but the news of safety Jamal Adams's knee injury sustained during the NFC Championship game has introduced a level of uncertainty. Adams, a key defensive player, is confirmed out for the Super Bowl, forcing Seattle to adjust their defensive strategy and potentially opening opportunities for the Patriots' offense. The impact of his absence wasn't factored into the initial lines, creating a ripple effect in the betting markets.

On the Patriots' side, the situation is equally challenging. Quarterback Mac Jones remains sidelined with an ankle sprain suffered in the AFC Championship, leaving the Patriots to rely on a backup signal-caller. While the identity of the starting quarterback hasn't been definitively announced as of this writing, the change at the helm undeniably impacts New England's offensive capabilities and has tempered expectations.

Line Movements and Public Sentiment

The current spread, as of 2026-02-03T17:30:27+0000, sits at Seahawks -4.5 (-110). This indicates that bettors need to wager $110 to win $100 on the Seahawks covering the spread. The Over/Under total is set at 43.5 (-115), suggesting that a combined score of 44 or more points is favored by oddsmakers, though a significant 55% of betting tickets are currently on the Over.

The moneyline odds reveal the perceived likelihood of each team winning. The Seahawks are currently priced at -210, meaning a $210 wager would be required to win $100. Conversely, the Patriots are at +170, offering a potentially lucrative payout for those willing to bet on the underdog, with a $100 wager yielding $170 in profit if they pull off the upset. Public betting trends further underscore the Seahawks' popularity, with 60% of bets to cover the spread placed on Seattle.

Player Prop Bets: Key Players Under the Microscope

Beyond the game and spread, player prop bets are drawing significant interest. Geno Smith, the Seahawks' quarterback, has an Over/Under passing yardage total of 269.5 yards. Bettors are gauging whether Smith can maintain his consistent performance despite the loss of a key defensive back for the opposing team. On the Patriots side, running back Rhamondre Stevenson is set at 75.5 rushing yards. His ability to establish a ground game will be crucial for the Patriots, particularly with an inexperienced quarterback under center.

DK Metcalf, the Seahawks' star receiver, presents another popular prop bet, with an Over/Under of 6.5 receptions. Metcalf's big-play potential makes him a prime candidate for a high-volume receiving game. These player props add another layer of engagement for fans and bettors alike.

Impact of Injuries and Strategic Adjustments

The injuries to Adams and Jones are undoubtedly the most significant factors influencing the betting landscape. The Seahawks' defense will need to compensate for Adams's absence, potentially relying more heavily on their remaining defensive backs and implementing different coverage schemes. The Patriots, meanwhile, will need to adapt their offensive approach to suit their backup quarterback, likely focusing on a conservative game plan emphasizing short passes and a strong running attack.

Looking Ahead: Continued Line Movement Expected

Sports analysts predict continued fluctuations in the betting lines as the Super Bowl draws nearer. Any further injury news, strategic adjustments revealed during press conferences, or even weather forecasts could significantly impact public perception and betting activity. The status of practice squad players and potential emergency quarterback signings could also play a role in shaping the odds. Bettors are advised to stay informed and monitor the lines closely for potential opportunities. The Super Bowl is not only a clash of football titans, but also a fascinating spectacle for those engaged in the world of sports betting.