There are many difficult challenges in sports betting but one of the most difficult, if not the most difficult game to handicap is the NFL Pro Bowl. Especially when the rosters are depleted by injuries and filled with only ‘above average’ players.

And since winning the game means so little most players who get to enjoy a fat bonus check and nice vacation whatever the result, there are untold variables that come into play. But if the NFC is going to win this edition of the NFL Odds all star game hosted in Miami there are few things that need to happen.

First, the NFC needs to limit the damage that QB Matt Schaub and Andre Johnson are going to do. Familiarity between QB and WR in this game is a huge bonus and Schaub and Johnson were the best combo in betting NFL action this year and will have a huge advantage against this NFC defense.

If the NFC defense can limit the damage when Schaub is in, it’s not likely that back-up QBs Vince Young and David Garrard are going to have a major impact in the NFL wagering. But perhaps even more important will be limiting the league’s Offensive Player of the Year, RB Chris Johnson. With great vision and patience this guy is all but unstoppable if he finds a seam. No one on the NFC roster will be able to catch him if he breaks through to the second level and they must keep Johnson in check at the line.