How can Blues be favourites?

I'm finding it very hard to understand how the Blues can be favourites to win the first game of State of Origin, yet underdogs to win the series. Anyone got any answers?

BLUES FAVOURITES FOLLOWING HEAVY BACKING

Sportingbet Australia punters have backed NSW in from $2.08 to $1.87 to take Game One of the state of Origin Series as Queensland continue to struggle with injury to key players.

Sportingbet Australia Michael Sullivan said punters had rallied for the Blues since Queensland confirmed Cameron Smith would miss the game.

“Cameron Smith is a huge out and the market has swung around since his absence was confirmed,” said Sullivan.

“We’ve taken bets on NSW including one of $15,000 at $1.91 and $10,000 at the plus two points and they’re all the rage with punters at the moment.”

Sullivan said he was still keen to take NSW on.

“"Queensland is still a better side on paper and look more dangerous across the park," Sullivan.

"The Maroons have won four series in a row and I am happy to be on them as outsiders as they always relish the underdog tag."

Despite losing the favourite tag for Game One, Queensland are still Series favourites at $1.80 with NSW $2.00 outsiders.

STATE OF ORIGIN – GAME ONE
Sportingbet Australia Market
NSW 1.87
Queensland 1.95

STATE OF ORIGIN – SERIES WINNER
Sportingbet Australia Market
Queensland 1.80
NSW 2.00