We’re through the looking glass, people. The Patriots are 23-point favorites Sunday against the visiting Eagles. This is the highest spread, according to ESPN’s Sal Paolantonio, since the Steelers laid 24 points to the Buccaneers back in 1976. Pittsburgh won that game 42-0 in a battle of first against worst.

Philadelphia is hardly the worst team in the league at 5-5 SU and ATS. But bettors have swarmed the Pats like killer bees, bumping the spread in Vegas up from 17 at the open. That’s one hell of a middle opportunity.

Part of the reason for this mammoth spread are the thumb and ankle injuries suffered by Eagles QB Donovan McNabb, who may not play Sunday. The bigger reason is that New England coach Bill Belichick is refusing to bow to football tradition. He’s keeping his first-team unit on the field even in blowout situations. Critics say Belichick is running up the score. Bettors have no problem with that.