On this page
Sports Betting
Introduction
I have a ton of stuff on this website about sports betting. Way to much to fit on one page. If you're already familiar with the basics of how to make a sports bet, I invite you to go to skip this page and jump to one of my pages on a specific sport, as follows:
If you're new to sports betting, this page will endeavor to teach you the major types of bets. We'll use the photo above as a reference for some of them. In particular, we'll focus on the Rams/Vikings game, which looks like this:
Oct. 11, 2009 — Vikings Vs. Rams
| 401 | Vikings | -10 | -600 |
| 402 | Rams | 41 | +400 |
In all sports betting, the odds are on a "to one" basis. In other words, you always get your bet back, plus winnings, if you win. So, for example, if you must bet $11 to win $10, then you would present $11 at the window and the writer will give you a ticket worth $21 if it wins.
Money Line
Money Line bets are simply on whom will win. No point spreads or any other nonsense.
Most of the time, one team will be favored over the other. So, if you bet the underdog, then you're rewarded with more than even money if they win. If you want to bet the favorite, then you will have to risk more than what you stand to win.
Consider game numbers 401 and 402 in the example above. The +400 for the Rams means that a bet on the Rams would pay 4 to 1. The -600 on the Vikings means that if you bet them, then you have to lay 6 to 1.
Examples:
- A $100 on the Rams would win $400.
- A $600 bet on the Vikings would win $100.
Point Spread
The most common way to bet football and basketball is with a point spread. Most sports bettors like a wager that has about a 50% chance to win. Less than that and you'll probably lose. More than that and you won't win much if you do win.
Compare Online NBA Odds
Basketball : Basketball Euroleague
Today
| Upcoming matches | Game | Money Line | Spread | Total | Featured Insight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Thu Nov 21st 12pm | Anadolu Efes - Paris Basketball |
|
|
|
Anadolu Efes is a strong team with a robust defense. Paris Basketball will need to play aggressively to compete. Home court advantage may favor Anadolu Efes. |
| Thu Nov 21st 1pm | AS Monaco - ASVEL Lyon Villeurbanne |
|
|
|
AS Monaco is a strong favorite, given their recent form and home advantage. ASVEL must improve defensively to compete. Expect a high-scoring game. |
| Thu Nov 21st 2pm | KK Crvena zvezda - KK Partizan NIS |
|
|
|
Crvena zvezda and Partizan are fierce rivals with close matches. Consider home advantage, recent form, player injuries, and head-to-head stats for informed betting decisions. |
| Thu Nov 21st 2pm | Olympiacos - Saski Baskonia |
|
|
|
Consider Olympiacos' strong home court advantage and Sasaki Baskonia's inconsistent performance on the road. Key player injuries and recent form could impact outcome. Analyze recent statistics for better predictions. |
| Thu Nov 21st 2pm | Pallacanestro Olimpia Milano - Maccabi Tel Aviv |
|
|
|
Olimpia Milano has a strong defense, while Maccabi Tel Aviv excels in fast breaks. Key players could decide the tight matchup. Home advantage might favor Milano slightly. |
| Thu Nov 21st 2pm | Real Madrid - ALBA Berlin |
|
|
|
Real Madrid is favored against ALBA Berlin. Key players, home advantage, and recent form could influence the outcome. Consider point spread and over/under lines for potential bets. |
This Week
| Upcoming matches | Game | Money Line | Spread | Total | Featured Insight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fri Nov 22nd 1pm | Žalgiris - Panathinaikos | Zalgiris and Panathinaikos clash promises high intensity. Key players: Zalgiris's Milaknis and Panathinaikos's Papapetrou. Home advantage may benefit Zalgiris. Expect tight score. Consider under 160 points. | |||
| Fri Nov 22nd 2pm | FC Bayern München - FC Barcelona Bàsquet | Expect a close game between Bayern Munich and FC Barcelona. Analyze player form and injuries. Consider defensive strategies and recent head-to-head performance for more accurate betting insights. |
Basketball : NBA
This Week
| Upcoming matches | Game | Money Line | Spread | Total | Featured Insight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Thu Nov 21st 7pm | Charlotte Hornets - Detroit Pistons |
|
|
|
Charlotte Hornets have a strong home record. Detroit Pistons struggle on the road. Key players could impact the result. Consider Hornets as favorites. Watch injury reports closely. |
| Thu Nov 21st 7pm | Toronto Raptors - Minnesota Timberwolves |
|
|
|
Toronto Raptors lean on defense against Minnesota Timberwolves. Key players: Siakam, Gobert. Watch Raptors' perimeter shooting and Timberwolves’ rebounding advantage. Close match expected. |
| Thu Nov 21st 8pm | San Antonio Spurs - Utah Jazz |
|
|
-110 (222.5)
|
San Antonio Spurs face a challenging matchup against Utah Jazz. Key players' performances, team dynamics, and home-court advantage may influence game outcome. Monitor injury reports for potential impact. |
| Thu Nov 21st 10pm | Los Angeles Lakers - Orlando Magic |
|
-105 (-5.5)
|
|
Lakers have a strong home record. Magic shows inconsistent form away. LeBron key player for LA. Monitor injuries. Consider point spread for betting advantage. |
| Fri Nov 22nd 7pm | Philadelphia 76ers - Brooklyn Nets |
|
|
|
Philadelphia's strong offense may overpower Brooklyn's defense. Key players and matchups could impact outcomes. Consider Philadelphia's form and Brooklyn's injuries when placing bets. |
| Fri Nov 22nd 7pm | Washington Wizards - Boston Celtics |
|
|
|
Boston Celtics are favored with stronger defense and current form. Washington Wizards need a tactical shift and star performances to succeed. Expect a high-scoring game with key player matchups. |
| Fri Nov 22nd 7pm | New Orleans Pelicans - Golden State Warriors | Pelicans' injury issues may favor Warriors' aggressive play. Evaluate team form and home advantage. Monitor pre-game reports for last-minute updates. Consider over/under betting for potential high-scoring game. | |||
| Fri Nov 22nd 8pm | Milwaukee Bucks - Indiana Pacers |
|
|
|
Bucks strong defense and star player Giannis could dominate. Pacers rely on fast offensive plays. Home court might give Indiana edge, but Milwaukee remains favorite. Injuries to key players critical. |
| Fri Nov 22nd 8pm | Houston Rockets - Portland Trail Blazers |
|
|
Houston Rockets face challenges but seek home win. Trail Blazers show strong offense. Key factors: defense strength, shooting accuracy, bench depth, star player performance. | |
| Fri Nov 22nd 8pm | Chicago Bulls - Atlanta Hawks |
|
|
|
Chicago Bulls need strong defense against Atlanta Hawks. Hawks focus on offense. Key players: Zach LaVine, Trae Young. Watch for injury updates. Tight game expected, betting line careful analysis needed. |
Next Month
| Upcoming matches | Game | Money Line | Spread | Total | Featured Insight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wed Dec 25th 12pm | New York Knicks - San Antonio Spurs |
|
|
|
The Knicks have a strong defense this season, while the Spurs struggle on the road. Expect a low-scoring game with the Knicks as favorites. |
| Wed Dec 25th 2pm | Dallas Mavericks - Minnesota Timberwolves |
|
|
|
Consider player matchups, recent performance trends, and home-court advantage. Dallas's offense versus Minnesota's defense could be pivotal. Injuries and bench strength might influence outcomes. |
| Wed Dec 25th 5pm | Boston Celtics - Philadelphia 76ers |
|
|
|
The Boston Celtics have a strong lineup but face tough competition from the Philadelphia 76ers. Consider player injuries and recent performance trends for informed betting. |
| Wed Dec 25th 8pm | Golden State Warriors - Los Angeles Lakers |
|
|
|
Warriors' strong perimeter shooting meets Lakers' tough defense. Watch Curry vs. LeBron duel. Lakers' size advantage could be key. Close match expected with high-scoring potential. |
| Wed Dec 25th 10pm | Phoenix Suns - Denver Nuggets |
|
|
|
Consider Denver's strong home record. Suns' depth increases their competitiveness. Check injury reports for impact players. Nuggets' Jokic is a key factor. Look at recent head-to-head performance. |
Basketball : NBA Championship Winner
Later
| Sat May 31st 6pm | Competitor/Team | Quote |
|---|---|---|
| Boston Celtics |
|
More odds |
| Oklahoma City Thunder |
|
More odds |
| New York Knicks |
|
More odds |
| Dallas Mavericks |
|
More odds |
| Cleveland Cavaliers |
|
More odds |
| Denver Nuggets |
|
More odds |
| Phoenix Suns |
|
More odds |
| Golden State Warriors |
|
More odds |
| Minnesota Timberwolves |
|
More odds |
| Los Angeles Lakers |
|
More odds |
| Milwaukee Bucks |
|
More odds |
| Philadelphia 76ers |
|
More odds |
| Memphis Grizzlies |
|
More odds |
| Orlando Magic |
|
More odds |
| Miami Heat |
|
More odds |
| Indiana Pacers |
|
More odds |
| Sacramento Kings |
|
More odds |
| Los Angeles Clippers |
|
More odds |
| Houston Rockets |
|
More odds |
| New Orleans Pelicans |
|
More odds |
| San Antonio Spurs |
|
More odds |
| Atlanta Hawks |
|
More odds |
| Chicago Bulls |
|
More odds |
| Utah Jazz |
|
More odds |
| Brooklyn Nets |
|
More odds |
| Charlotte Hornets |
|
More odds |
| Detroit Pistons |
|
More odds |
| Toronto Raptors |
|
More odds |
| Washington Wizards |
|
More odds |
| Portland Trail Blazers |
|
More odds |
Basketball : NCAAB
Today
| Upcoming matches | Game | Money Line | Spread | Total | Featured Insight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Thu Nov 21st 11am | UIC Flames - James Madison Dukes |
|
|
|
James Madison Dukes hold a stronger record. UIC Flames need robust defense to contend. Consider point differential and home advantage in betting insights. |
| Thu Nov 21st 12pm | Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders - Ohio Bobcats |
|
|
|
The Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders and Ohio Bobcats compete intensely. Watch player matchups. Key stats: Blue Raiders' defense vs. Bobcats' offense. Betting tip: Consider recent performance and team morale. |
| Thu Nov 21st 12pm | Drake Bulldogs - Miami Hurricanes |
|
|
|
Drake Bulldogs have strong defense but lack depth. Miami Hurricanes show offensive versatility. Key players could tilt the match; watch for turnovers. Betting line favors Miami slightly. |
| Thu Nov 21st 1pm | UC San Diego Tritons - La Salle Explorers |
110
⇗5.00
|
|
|
The matchup between UC San Diego Tritons and La Salle Explorers highlights balanced teams. Key factors include turnovers and three-point accuracy. Player performances will likely tip the scales in this close contest. |
| Thu Nov 21st 2pm | Florida Atlantic Owls - Oklahoma St Cowboys |
100
|
|
|
Florida Atlantic's strong defense will challenge Oklahoma State. Expect a tight game with potential for an upset. Key players will determine the outcome. |
| Thu Nov 21st 2pm | Portland Pilots - South Florida Bulls |
320
|
|
|
Portland Pilots strong at home, South Florida Bulls weak on defense. Look for Portland's offense to exploit. Favor Portland with close watch on point spread. |
| Thu Nov 21st 4pm | Jacksonville St Gamecocks - East Carolina Pirates |
140
|
|
|
Analyze team performance, recent games, and player injuries. Consider Jacksonville's defense and East Carolina's home advantage. Betting odds suggest a tight game. Stay updated with live stats. |
| Thu Nov 21st 5pm | Youngstown St Penguins - Monmouth Hawks |
|
|
|
Youngstown State’s defense is solid, Monmouth struggles on the road. Favor Penguins, consider the under. Key players’ stats and recent form vital for bets. |
| Thu Nov 21st 5pm | VCU Rams - Seton Hall Pirates |
-278
|
|
|
VCU Rams' defense is key, ranking top in steals. Seton Hall favors a strong offense. Watch for scoring trends before betting on the game outcome and totals. |
| Thu Nov 21st 5pm | Texas State Bobcats - Bradley Braves |
|
|
|
Evaluate Texas State's defense and Bradley's offensive strategy. Watch for key players' performance. Betting odds might differ based on recent team form. Consider both teams' historical matchups. |
| Thu Nov 21st 6pm | Cornell Big Red - Robert Morris Colonials |
-420
|
|
|
Cornell's fast-paced offense challenges Robert Morris' defense. Consider player matchups and recent performance. Home-court advantage could play a crucial role. |
| Thu Nov 21st 6pm | Stetson Hatters - Toledo Rockets |
650
|
|
|
Toledo Rockets favored with strong offense; Stetson Hatters must improve defense. Watch team injuries and recent performance trends for potential betting opportunities. |
| Thu Nov 21st 6pm | Indiana Hoosiers - UNC Greensboro Spartans |
-2000
|
|
|
Indiana Hoosiers are favored due to strong defense. UNC Greensboro Spartans could cover the spread with effective outside shooting. Key players' performance and turnovers might decide the outcome. |
This Week
| Upcoming matches | Game | Money Line | Spread | Total | Featured Insight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Thu Nov 21st 7pm | Kent State Golden Flashes - Niagara Purple Eagles |
-1000
|
|
|
Kent State's strong defense faces Niagara. Consider home court advantage and recent form. Interesting matchup to watch for underdog bettors. |
| Thu Nov 21st 7pm | Oakland Golden Grizzlies - Eastern Michigan Eagles |
|
|
|
Oakland Golden Grizzlies have a strong home record. Eastern Michigan Eagles struggle on the road. Consider Oakland as favorites, but watch for EM's potential upset with key players. |
| Thu Nov 21st 7pm | Texas Longhorns - Syracuse Orange |
-455
|
|
|
Texas Longhorns' strong defense may challenge Syracuse's offensive strategies. Watch for Texas' rebounding and Syracuse's zone defense. Key players could tilt the game. Odds may reflect recent team performances. |
| Thu Nov 21st 7pm | South Carolina Gamecocks - Mercer Bears |
-1700
|
|
|
South Carolina Gamecocks are favorites over Mercer Bears. Consider their home advantage and recent performance trends. Watch for injuries. Mercer might struggle defensively. Bet cautiously. |
| Thu Nov 21st 7pm | Stonehill Skyhawks - Bryant Bulldogs |
|
|
|
Analyze team statistics and current form. Consider home advantage and injuries. Check head-to-head history. Evaluate betting odds for Stonehill Skyhawks vs. Bryant Bulldogs based on these factors. |
| Thu Nov 21st 7pm | Bucknell Bison - NJIT Highlanders |
|
|
|
The Bucknell Bison's strong offense faces the NJIT Highlanders' resilient defense. Home advantage may play a crucial role. Key players could sway momentum. Monitor injury reports for late changes. |
| Thu Nov 21st 7pm | Clemson Tigers - Radford Highlanders |
|
|
|
Clemson Tigers hold a home advantage. Radford Highlanders’ defense is strong but inconsistent. Key players will determine a close match. Monitor injury reports before betting. |
| Thu Nov 21st 7pm | St. John's Red Storm - Baylor Bears |
|
|
|
Expect a high-paced game between St. John's Red Storm and Baylor Bears. Look for Baylor's strong defense to challenge St. John's offense. Possible slight edge for Baylor. |
| Thu Nov 21st 7pm | Central Arkansas Bears - SE Missouri St Redhawks |
|
|
|
Consider recent performance trends: Central Arkansas Bears have a weaker defense compared to SE Missouri St Redhawks. Check player injuries before placing bets; home advantage favors SE Missouri State. |
| Thu Nov 21st 7pm | Stephen F. Austin Lumberjacks - Presbyterian Blue Hose |
|
|
|
Consider Stephen F. Austin's strong home record. Presbyterian struggles on the road. Lumberjacks' defense could be decisive. Check player injuries before betting. |
| Thu Nov 21st 7pm | Nevada Wolf Pack - Vanderbilt Commodores |
|
|
|
The game between Nevada Wolf Pack and Vanderbilt Commodores shows potential for a close match. Consider the teams' recent performance and player health before placing bets. |
| Thu Nov 21st 8pm | Wright St Raiders - Princeton Tigers |
240
|
|
|
The Princeton Tigers have a strong defensive lineup, whereas Wright St Raiders excel in offense. Betting insight focuses on the total points being over the usual predictions. |
| Thu Nov 21st 8pm | Valparaiso Beacons - Lindenwood Lions |
-550
|
|
|
Valparaiso Beacons favored; strong defense and solid recent form. Lindenwood Lions struggling offensively but can surprise. Consider options and latest news before betting. |
| Thu Nov 21st 8pm | Ole Miss Rebels - Oral Roberts Golden Eagles |
-4500
|
|
|
Ole Miss Rebels have the home advantage. Oral Roberts Golden Eagles show strong offense. Key players' performance can sway the game. Betting on close scores might be strategic. |
| Thu Nov 21st 8pm | Sacred Heart Pioneers - Central Connecticut St Blue Devils |
|
|
|
Sacred Heart Pioneers are favorites due to better form, while Central Connecticut State relies on strong home performance. Watch key player matchups for betting insights. |
| Thu Nov 21st 8pm | Oklahoma Sooners - Texas A&M-Commerce Lions |
|
|
|
Oklahoma Sooners have a strong home record. Texas A&M-Commerce Lions struggle against tougher teams. Consider betting on Sooners. Watch for any last-minute injuries impacting team performance. |
| Thu Nov 21st 8pm | Texas A&M-CC Islanders - Tenn-Martin Skyhawks |
|
|
|
Texas A&M-CC favors a defensive game. Tenn-Martin has a strong offense. Consider low-score bets. Watch key players' matchups. Defensive stamina and turnovers may influence the outcome. |
| Thu Nov 21st 8pm | Michigan Wolverines - Tarleton State Texans |
|
|
Michigan Wolverines have a strong defense but watch Tarleton State Texans for an upset. Key players' performance will influence betting odds significantly. | |
| Thu Nov 21st 9pm | New Mexico Lobos - Grambling St Tigers |
|
|
|
The New Mexico Lobos have a strong home advantage, while Grambling State Tigers are improving defensively. Look for a close game with possible value on the underdog's spread. |
| Thu Nov 21st 9pm | Virginia Cavaliers - Tennessee Volunteers |
600
|
|
-105 (125.5)
|
Virginia Cavaliers' strong defense meets Tennessee Volunteers' dynamic offense. Home advantage and recent form could favor Tennessee. Consider point spreads and over/under lines for strategic betting decisions. |
| Thu Nov 21st 9pm | Saint Joseph's Hawks - Texas Tech Red Raiders |
430
|
|
|
Texas Tech Red Raiders have a stronger defense, while Saint Joseph's Hawks rely on fast-paced offense. Betting advantage leans towards Texas Tech, especially in home court settings. |
| Thu Nov 21st 9pm | Washington St Cougars - Eastern Washington Eagles |
-650
|
|
|
Washington St Cougars vs Eastern Washington Eagles: Look for Cougars' strong defense against Eagles' agile offense. Key players could sway game's outcome. Consider under on points total. |
| Thu Nov 21st 10pm | Oregon St Beavers - Oregon Ducks |
205
|
|
|
Oregon Ducks have a solid track record against the Beavers. Key players' performance and home court advantage make the Ducks slight favorites in what promises to be a close game. |
| Thu Nov 21st 10pm | San Francisco Dons - Memphis Tigers |
-110
|
|
|
Consider Memphis Tigers' strong defense and San Francisco Dons' recent road performance. Key players and recent stats might influence the match outcome. Check injuries and latest form for betting decisions. |
| Thu Nov 21st 10pm | California Golden Bears - Air Force Falcons |
|
|
|
Expect a competitive game; Golden Bears possess strong defense, while Falcons exhibit remarkable offense. Key players and recent performances suggest a tight scoreline. Bet cautiously on point spread. |
| Fri Nov 22nd 10pm | Arizona Wildcats - Duke Blue Devils | Duke Blue Devils have a strong home record. Arizona's defense will be tested. Key players may decide the outcome. Expect a competitive game. |
To achieve about a 50/50 chance of winning a bet on a lopsided game, like the Rams vs. Vikings above, the sports books have come up with the "point spread."
Before I go on, let me clarify some terminology. Despite it being probably the most popular way to bet, there is no particular term for a bet against the spread. Many people call this a "straight bet." However, this term can also be used, and is printed on tickets for, money line bets, total bets, and any other bet involving just one game. For purposes of this page, I call such bets a "point spread" bet, and invite the rest of the world to adopt this terminology.
A point spread is simply a handicap you give the weaker team, or deduct from the stronger one, depending on how you look at it. For example, if my average scoring in bowling is 120 and I play somebody with an average of 140, then to make a wager fair, I might be given a free 20 points. In this case you would say my point spread is +20.
In the example above you can see a -10 next to the Vikings. That means that the Vikings are favored to win by 10 points. So, if you bet the Vikings you give up ten points and if you bet the Rams you get 10 points.
Usually with point spread bets you risk $11 for every $10 you stand to win.
Examples:
- A $110 bet on the Rams would win $100 if they win the game or lose by less than 10.
- A $110 bet on the Vikings would win $100 if the Vikings win by more than 10.
Both bets will push if the Vikings win by exactly 10.
Total
Total Bets are similar to point spread bets, except the bettor bets on the total points scored. In the example above the bettor bets whether the total points combined between the Vikings and Rams will be over or under 41. Like point spread bets the bettor must generally risk $11 to win $10, for a house edge of 4.54%.
Examples:
- A $55 bet on the under would win $50 if the total points in the game were 40 or less.
- A $55 bet on the over would win $50 if the total points in the game were 42 or less.
- Any bet on the over or under would push if the total points in the game were exactly 41.
Parlays
Parlay bets are a good and popular way to potentially win big with a small wager. The way they work is the bettor picks two or more events, which all must win or push to win the bet. One or more loss will cause the whole parlay bet to lose. In the event of a push, that "leg" of the parlay bet will be ignored and the win will be reduced to whatever it would pay if that selection were never made.
The way the win on parlay bets is calculated is as follows:
- If the player made two or more picks that are at -110 odds, then a parlay table will be used to determine to determine the win for just those events. These tables offer stingy odds, except for the two-leg parlay.
- After that, a mathematical calculation will be used for the other legs, as if the player made each bet independently.
As an example, consider the following parlay bet I made at the Golden Nugget, for the purposes of example only.
Note the parlay above contains four legs at -110 odds and one at +210. The Golden Nugget pays 11 to 1 for a four-leg parlay. The total return of a parlay, including the return of the original bet, is the product of what every bet would be on a for one basis. In this case, $10 × 12 × 3.1 = $372.20.
My advice on parlays is to never include more than two legs at -110 odds.
For more information on parlays, please see my section on parlay bets the NFL. You can also find a survey of Las Vegas parlay tables at Wizard of Vegas.
Compare Online NFL Odds
American Football : NFL
This Week
| Upcoming matches | Game | Money Line | Spread | Total | Featured Insight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Thu Nov 21st 8pm | Cleveland Browns - Pittsburgh Steelers |
|
-110 (3.5)
|
-110 (36.5)
|
Cleveland Browns have a strong defense this season. Pittsburgh Steelers rely on their passing game. Expect a close match, but turnovers could decide the outcome. |
| Sun Nov 24th 1pm | Carolina Panthers - Kansas City Chiefs |
|
-110 (11)
|
|
Kansas City Chiefs are favorites with a strong offense, while Carolina Panthers struggle defensively. Consider betting on Chiefs to cover the spread due to their superior performance this season. |
| Sun Nov 24th 1pm | Chicago Bears - Minnesota Vikings |
162
|
|
-110 (39.5)
|
Vikings are favored due to stronger offense, while Bears have a chance if their defense can contain Minnesota's key players. |
| Sun Nov 24th 1pm | Washington Commanders - Dallas Cowboys |
|
|
|
Dallas Cowboys are favored, strong defense crucial. Washington Commanders need offensive consistency. Watch for key player matchups. Weather and home advantage might influence outcomes. |
| Sun Nov 24th 1pm | Indianapolis Colts - Detroit Lions |
|
|
-110 (50)
|
Colts' strong defense challenges Lions' passing attack. Key players: Colts' Taylor, Lions' Goff. Watch for turnovers. Weather impact minimal. Both teams have playoff ambitions. |
| Sun Nov 24th 1pm | Houston Texans - Tennessee Titans |
|
|
|
Injuries and defensive matchups play crucial roles. Consider home advantage, recent form, and key player performance. Turnover battle significantly impacts the outcome. Monitor quarterback play for strategic betting. |
| Sun Nov 24th 1pm | Miami Dolphins - New England Patriots |
|
|
-110 (46)
|
Miami Dolphins bring offensive firepower. Patriots' defense remains strong. Dolphins' speed vs. Patriots' tactics. Watch for turnovers. Key players: Tua Tagovailoa, Mac Jones. Weather may influence outcomes. Special teams crucial. |
| Sun Nov 24th 1pm | New York Giants - Tampa Bay Buccaneers |
|
-105 (6)
|
-110 (41.5)
|
The Giants face an uphill battle against a strong Buccaneers team. Tampa Bay's defense and Tom Brady's leadership make them favorites. Giants need a strong offense to compete. |
| Sun Nov 24th 4pm | Las Vegas Raiders - Denver Broncos |
|
-110 (6)
|
-110 (41)
|
Raiders vs. Broncos: Both teams have strong defenses but inconsistent offenses. Home-field advantage could favor Broncos. Key injuries may impact the outcome. Consider under for total points. |
| Sun Nov 24th 4pm | Arizona Cardinals - Seattle Seahawks |
-105
|
|
-110 (47.5)
|
Cardinals face Seahawks. Key players to watch: Kyler Murray for Arizona, D.K. Metcalf for Seattle. Check team performance under high pressure situations. Betting lines favor Seattle. |
| Sun Nov 24th 4pm | Green Bay Packers - San Francisco 49ers |
|
-105 (-2)
|
-110 (47.5)
|
Consider 49ers' strong defense and Packers' recent form. Key players may impact odds. Weather may influence game dynamics. Home advantage could benefit 49ers. |
Next Week
| Upcoming matches | Game | Money Line | Spread | Total | Featured Insight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sun Nov 24th 8pm | Los Angeles Rams - Philadelphia Eagles |
|
|
|
The Eagles' strong offense faces the Rams' resilient defense. Key players could swing the game. Monitor injuries and weather conditions as they may impact betting odds. |
| Mon Nov 25th 8pm | Los Angeles Chargers - Baltimore Ravens |
130
|
|
|
Chargers' high-powered offense faces Ravens' resilient defense. Expect a high-scoring game with potential turnovers. Key players: Herbert (LAC), Jackson (BAL). Betting focus: point spread, over/under. |
| Thu Nov 28th 12pm | Detroit Lions - Chicago Bears |
|
|
-110 (48.5)
|
Detroit Lions have momentum with a strong offense; Chicago Bears face defensive challenges, making Lions likely favorites. Watch QB performances and turnovers for game impact. |
| Thu Nov 28th 4pm | Dallas Cowboys - New York Giants |
-145
|
-110 (-2.5)
|
-110 (39.5)
|
The Dallas Cowboys' strong offense clashes with the New York Giants' resilient defense. Watch for standout performances from key players and potential game-changing turnovers. Betting leans towards the Cowboys. |
| Thu Nov 28th 8pm | Green Bay Packers - Miami Dolphins |
|
-110 (-3.5)
|
-110 (47.5)
|
Packers-Dolphins clash highlights dynamic offenses. Watch for Rodgers’ passing skills against Miami’s defense. Dolphins’ home advantage may be crucial. Close game expected with potential upsets. Key players could decide outcome. |
| Fri Nov 29th 3pm | Kansas City Chiefs - Las Vegas Raiders |
-355
|
|
-110 (44)
|
Kansas City Chiefs are favored. Key players: Patrick Mahomes, Travis Kelce. Raiders need strong defense. Watch for turnovers. Expect high scoring game. |
| Sun Dec 1st 1pm | Minnesota Vikings - Arizona Cardinals |
|
-110 (-3.5)
|
-110 (47)
|
Vikings strong offense faces Cardinals’ dynamic defense. Key players: Jefferson for Vikings, Simmons for Cardinals. Weather clear, slight edge to Vikings. Monitor injuries. Bet carefully, unpredictable game. |
| Sun Dec 1st 1pm | Atlanta Falcons - Los Angeles Chargers |
|
-110 (1.5)
|
-110 (47)
|
The Falcons' run game faces Chargers' weak rush defense. Betting trends favor the Chargers due to better passing offense. Watch injury reports and weather conditions for a closer view. |
| Sun Dec 1st 1pm | Cincinnati Bengals - Pittsburgh Steelers |
|
-110 (-1.5)
|
-110 (47.5)
|
Cincinnati Bengals and Pittsburgh Steelers face off with dynamic offenses. Bengals' Joe Burrow shows consistency, while Steelers' defense can capitalize on turnovers. A thrilling matchup is expected. |
| Sun Dec 1st 1pm | Jacksonville Jaguars - Houston Texans |
|
-105 (6.5)
|
-110 (42.5)
|
Jaguars have a stronger roster, but Texans could surprise at home. Key players to watch: Trevor Lawrence and Dameon Pierce. Weather and turnovers will influence the outcome. |
| Sun Dec 1st 1pm | New England Patriots - Indianapolis Colts |
152
|
100 (2.5)
|
-110 (43)
|
The Patriots' strong defense may challenge the Colts' offense. Monitor injuries and weather conditions. Patriots slight favorites. Consider point spread bets. |
| Sun Dec 1st 1pm | New York Jets - Seattle Seahawks |
|
-110 (-1.5)
|
-110 (44)
|
The Jets face a strong Seahawks defense. Key players return for both teams. Weather could be a factor. Watch betting lines, as matchups favor Seahawks’ home advantage. |
| Sun Dec 1st 1pm | Washington Commanders - Tennessee Titans |
|
-110 (-7)
|
-110 (44.5)
|
Commanders vs Titans: Titans have edge with strong defense; focus on their rushing game. Commanders’ offense inconsistent but can surprise. Key player injuries may impact both teams. |
| Sun Dec 1st 4pm | Carolina Panthers - Tampa Bay Buccaneers |
|
-110 (6.5)
|
-110 (44)
|
Panthers focusing on ground game to exploit Bucs' weak run defense. Buccaneers rely on Brady's passing against Carolina's vulnerable secondary. Close matchup expected with defensive plays being crucial. |
| Sun Dec 1st 4pm | New Orleans Saints - Los Angeles Rams |
|
100 (2.5)
|
-110 (46.5)
|
The Saints' strong offense might outperform the Rams' defense. Key players to watch include Alvin Kamara for Saints and Aaron Donald for Rams. Consider betting on a high-scoring game. |
| Sun Dec 1st 4pm | Baltimore Ravens - Philadelphia Eagles |
|
-105 (-3)
|
-110 (50.5)
|
The Ravens' defense is solid, but the Eagles' high-scoring offense could pose a challenge. Key players and turnovers may determine the outcome of this closely-matched game. |
Next Month
| Upcoming matches | Game | Money Line | Spread | Total | Featured Insight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sun Dec 1st 8pm | Buffalo Bills - San Francisco 49ers |
|
-110 (-3.5)
|
-110 (47)
|
Buffalo Bills' strong defense clashes with San Francisco 49ers' versatile offense. Key players: Josh Allen, Stefon Diggs. Watch injury reports closely. Weather may impact game's pace. Bet cautiously. |
| Mon Dec 2nd 7pm | Denver Broncos - Cleveland Browns |
135
|
-110 (-6.5)
|
-110 (40.5)
|
Denver Broncos are underdogs against Cleveland Browns, who have a strong defense. Consider Browns' home advantage but watch Denver's potential for a surprise performance. |
Teasers
Teasers are similar to parlays except the point spread on each game moves a certain number of points in the player's favor. In football the player gets 6 to 7 points, and in basketball, 4 to 5 points. The player pays for this in the form of much lower winnings. For example, if the Vikings were part of a 6-point teaser, then they would only need to win by more than 4 points to cover. If the Rams were part of a teaser, they could win, or lose by less than 16, and cover.
More information:
- Teaser bets in the NFL.
- Vegas sports book comparison for the teaser odds at all the Vegas sports book groups.
Buying Half a Point
In football and basketball, the straight bet player has the option to move the point spread 1/2 point to his advantage. The cost of this half point is laying 120, as opposed to 110. Not all sports books allow this, and if they do, they usually don't let you buy off of the common three-point margin of victory in football.
Futures
Futures are a bet on who will win the championship when there are still more than two possible teams to bet on. The house edge on futures varies substantially from one sports book to another. However, in general, they are a sucker bet.
More information:
- For information on who does offer the best futures in Las Vegas visit my sports betting appendix 5.
- You can also use my sports futures calculator to calculate the overall house edge of a set of futures bets.
Propositions
Often big games will have "proposition" bets on things not directly related to the final score of the game. These are usually abbreviated to "prop" bets. For example, in football whether or not the first score will be a touchdown. In baseball whether a run will be scored in the first inning. In hockey/soccer, whether anybody will score a hat trick. The odds on these are expressed like point spread bets. For example, as I write this the Golden Nugget has the following proposition bet on Super Bowl 49:
Will there be a safety in the game?
Yes: +500
No: -700
This means a bet on the "yes" pays 5 to 1, and on the "no" pays 1 to 7.
More information:
Basic Strategy
I could talk all day about betting sports but I know some of my readers just want it simplified to nice sound bites. For them, here is my basic strategy for sports betting:
- Money lines: Bet underdogs.
- Point spread bets: Bet underdogs.
- Totals: Bet unders.
- Parlays: Bet off the board as opposed to the cards. Either do a three-team parlay or mix in one event that doesn't pay -110 odds.
- Teasers: Unless you know to cross the key numbers (namely 3 and 7 in football), avoid teasers completely.
- Futures: Avoid them, as they carry a high house edge of about 30%. If you must bet them, for entertainment reasons, do so in strict moderation.
- Propositions: Bet unders and things not to happen.
- All bets: Shop around. Lines can vary from one sports book to another. It pays to compare lines for extra points or better odds.
Internal Links
- Betting the NFL In-depth look at betting professional football.
- Betting College Football In-depth look at betting college football.
- Parlay Bets in the NFL
- Teaser Bets in the NFL
- Pleaser Bets in the NFL
- Betting the MLB In-depth look at betting professional baseball.
- Betting the NBA In-depth look at betting professional basketball.
- Appendix 1 Comparative study on who has the best lines in Vegas.
- Appendix 2 Various topics in sports betting.
- Appendix 3 List of Las Vegas sports book families.
- Appendix 4 Fair prices to buy and sell points in the NFL.
- Appendix 5 Explores sports futures in greater depth.
- Appendix 6 Lost and expired tickets.
- Appendix 7 Companion to appendix 1, showing NFL money line pairs from several Internet sportbooks.
- Appendix 8 Comparative study on who has the best lines offshore.
- Appendix 9 Companion to appendix 8, showing NFL money line pairs from offshore sportbooks.
- Appendix 11 College football money lines.
- Total number of kickoffs in Super Bowl 43. Were there 9 or 10?
- Vegas sports book comparison at WizardOfVegas.com. Who offers what odds on parlays and teasers, as well as rebate percentages.
Calculators
- NFL proposition bet calculator: The fair line on lots of common props, given the spread the total.
- Sports parlay calculator: To see what an off-the-board parlay pays, that isn't all -110 legs.
- Straight bet calculator: Calculate the house edge of any straight (two outcome) bet.
- Sports futures calculator: Calculate the house edge of a set of futures bets.
Sports Book Reviews
Outside Links
- For a simplified explanation of sports betting, please visit my companion site Wizard of Vegas.
- My sports betting advice in Spanish at LasApuestas.mx.