Sports betting is more popular than ever in the USA. With so many options to choose from, it can feel a bit overwhelming at first. But don’t worry! We’ll break down the different types of bets in a simple and fun way. Whether you’re a beginner or just need a refresher, this article has got you covered.
Let’s dive in!
1. Moneyline Bets
This is the most basic kind of sports bet. You’re just picking who will win the game. That’s it!
- Example: Bet on the Lakers to beat the Celtics.
- If the team you picked wins, you win!
You’ll notice a minus (-) or plus (+) sign next to a team’s name. The minus means that team is the favorite. The plus means they’re the underdog.
Example: -150 means you need to bet $150 to win $100. +200 means you win $200 from a $100 bet. Simple, right?
2. Point Spread Bets
This type of bet adds a twist. It evens the playing field between a strong and a weak team.
Example: The Cowboys are -7.5 against the Giants.
- If you bet on the Cowboys, they need to win by more than 7.5 points (basically 8).
- If you bet on the Giants, they can either win or lose by less than 7.5 points.
It’s great for games where one team is much better than the other.
3. Over/Under (Totals)
This bet has nothing to do with which team wins. It’s all about the final score.
The sportsbook gives a number — a total score prediction for both teams combined.
Example: Over/Under is set at 45.5 for a football game.
- If the combined score is 46 or more, the “Over” wins.
- If it’s 45 or less, the “Under” wins.
This is a fun bet if you just want to cheer for a high or low scoring game!
4. Parlays
Parlays are like betting combos. You pick 2 or more bets and group them together.
If all your picks win, you win big. But if just one loses, the whole bet loses.
- They’re fun and offer higher payouts.
- But they’re riskier too.
Example: Bet on the Packers, Yankees, and Lakers all to win. If any lose, no money for you!
5. Teasers
Teasers are like parlays, but with a twist — you adjust the point spreads in your favor.
This gives you a better chance to win, but your potential payout is lower than with regular parlays.
6. Prop Bets (Proposition Bets)
These are fun and sometimes a little wacky. You’re betting on specific things in a game — not just the final score.
Examples:
- Will Patrick Mahomes throw for over 300 yards?
- Which team will score first?
- Will the coin toss be heads or tails?
Great for big events like the Super Bowl!
7. Futures
These bets are about events that will happen…later. Sometimes much later.
Examples:
- Who will win the NBA Championship?
- Who will be MVP?
You usually place these bets weeks or months in advance. They can offer big payouts if you’re right!
8. Live Betting (In-Game Betting)
This type of betting happens while the game is being played.
The odds change in real-time based on what’s happening.
- Bet on the next team to score.
- Who will lead at halftime?
- Will the next play be a run or a pass?
Fast, exciting, and perfect for watching while betting.
So… Which One Should You Try?
It depends on your style and the fun you’re looking for!
- Like simple? Try Moneyline.
- Love stats? Go for Over/Under or Prop bets.
- Feeling lucky? Try Parlays or Futures.
No matter what you choose, always bet responsibly. It’s meant to enhance the fun, not cause stress.
Now that you know the basics, you’re ready to get in on the action. So grab your game-day snacks and pick your bets!