Indeed Boro and Burnley were two leading favourites at the start of the season so the bookies will be liable for a big payout if they win. So they shorten them and offer good odds on us to spread the liability, reduce the profit maybe if we win but ensure they can possibly make money if Boro or Burnley win.
Middlesbrough are massively underpriced (along with Derby) because the bookies are over exposed with them. Not only are we outsiders, but we look to be the value bet.
8/1 is very generous, IMO. I would put our chances at nearer 5/1 I think.