Sports gamblers are in the market for 'sure things,' and what could be more comforting than Peyton Manning at the helm? Although the Denver Broncos were utterly disassembled by the Seattle Seahawks in the Super Bowl, their preseason odds to bring home a ring rank at 11-2, putting them atop the leaderboard. The Seahawks are close behind with 6-1 odds, followed by the Patriots, 49ers and Packers at 8-1.

It's hard for betters to convince themselves that the Seattle Seahawks improved over the offseason. As is the case with many previous Super Bowl champs, the victory can spell a big payday for players elsewhere in the league. Golden Tate, Brandon Browder and Chris Clemons all left the Seahawks in search of bigger contracts.

The Denver Broncos, in opposition, have made huge changes that will undoubtedly shift their lacking defense in a positive direction. DeMarcus Ware, Aqib Talib and T.J. Ward are key additions that address everything that Denver seemed to be lacking. On the offensive side of the ball the Broncos lost long time wide receiver Eric Decker, but Peyton Manning largely made Decker. The addition of Emmanuel Sanders will help to bring more speed to the Broncos passing attack.

Further down the line, the Patriots, 49ers and Packers are merely preseason favorites. All three teams have serious problems, but their top-tier quarterbacks and coaches should be enough to offset any unforeseen issues.

The 49ers in particular have been falling quickly in betting circles. The suspension of Aldon Smith and a preseason lackluster offense are two big worries that coach Jim Harbaugh will have to address quickly. Navarro Bowman will also be out until at least the seventh game of the season, which will prove to be difficult for the usual defensive powerhouse.

The New England Patriots are the class of the NFL, which means even if they don't look good on paper; they somehow find a way to come out on top. Having Rob Gronkowski back will be key for Tom Brady to return to his usual passing attack. While their defense remains a bit weak, the offseason addition of Brandon Brower should prove to be key, if he can keep his off-the-field antics to a minimum.

The Green Bay Packers will have an early season test when they face-off against the Seattle Seahawks in tonight's NFL opener. Whichever team can come out on top will likely be looked at as the NFC favorite.