Vegas Odds

By Keith Ott

Being that we’re at Vegas, the betting capitol of the world, it’s only right that we start here with their lines on the race and other racing items that get bet on.  Because, you name it, if there’s a way to make a wager out of it, they will.   

The Top 10: Johnson (9-2); J. Gordon (6-1); Kyle Busch, Edwards (8-1); Stewart (9-1); Kenseth (10-1); Earnhardt (12-1); Kurt Busch (14-1); Hamlin (15-1); Biffle (16-1)

Selected Others: Kahne (20-1); Newman (25-1); Truex Jr. (25-1); Burton (28-1); Harvick (30-1); Montoya (40-1); R. Gordon (100-1); Schrader (200-1); Mayfield (200-1)

These are just the odds posted Wednesday, so don’t bet the farm.  They do seem to be covering the spread, though.  They have plenty of multiple race winners with Johnson, Kenseth, and Gordon.  Johnson, who is going for his fourth consecutive Vegas win, is seldom ever a bad pick.  So, with the Gibbs boys, the Hendrick’s stable, the local Busch Brothers, strong Roush Fords and a Penske Dodge, it’s improbable the winner will come from outside the top group.  But, that’s why they race.  Just remember.  No-one in Vegas is there to make you richer.  Separating you from your money is still the only game in town.

Other Bets:

Johnson – Third consecutive Cup title (4-1)

Knaus – Serves another suspension (15-1)

Earnhardt – Wins a race (2-5); Makes the Chase (2-5)

No First time winner in 2008 – (3-1)

Open wheel rookie wins a race – (20-1)

Toyota wins a race – (even)

As a final note, the weather predicted for Vegas is calling for clear skies and a moderate temperature of around 68 degrees.  I would bet that the only potential chance for weeping here would be if you actually placed a bet.