Trying your luck betting on NFL games can turn an ordinary Sunday into a thrilling experience. But before you dive in, it’s essential to get a strong grasp of how the process works. In this simple guide, you’ll learn what you need to know about NFL betting odds, wager types, reading lines, and making smart choices with your money.
Understanding the Basics of NFL Betting
Before you place your first bet, it helps to understand the foundational principles of sports betting, especially when it comes to football.
What Are Betting Odds?
Think of betting odds as a way to measure both your chance of winning and how big your payout might be. In the U.S., most sportsbooks show odds with plus (+) or minus (–) signs. A negative number, like –150, tells you how much to risk to win $100. A positive number, such as +130, shows how much you’ll win if you wager $100 on the underdog.
Bankroll Management is Key
Managing your money wisely can make all the difference between a fun NFL season and a stressful one. Set aside a comfortable amount for betting and avoid spending more than you planned. Many experienced bettors recommend risking only 1-3% of your total bankroll per game—this helps keep your betting sustainable.
Common Types of NFL Bets
The NFL offers a variety of betting options, and understanding your choices will help you place more confident wagers.
- Moneyline: For this wager, you simply pick which team you believe will win the game—no need to worry about the margin of victory.
- Point Spread: Bookmakers set a spread to balance the odds between teams. Choosing the favorite means they need to win by a specific number of points; picking the underdog lets you win if they keep the game close or pull off an upset.
- Total (Over/Under): Bet on whether the final combined score will land above or below the number the sportsbook sets.
How to Bet on NFL Games and Read the Lines
Placing a bet isn’t just about choosing a team—you’ll want to understand what the betting lines actually mean.
Decoding the Point Spread
Let’s say the Dallas Cowboys are favored at –7.5 against the New York Giants. This means if you bet on Dallas, they must win by 8 or more points for your bet to win. If you choose the Giants at +7.5, you win your wager if they win outright or lose by seven points or fewer.
Advanced NFL Betting Concepts
After you’ve got the basics down, you might enjoy exploring more complex strategies and bet types.
- Parlays: This lets you combine several bets into one ticket for a bigger potential win. However, every bet (or “leg”) must be correct—miss one and the whole parlay loses.
- Teasers: With teasers, you can adjust point spreads in your favor, usually across multiple games, though the payout drops accordingly.
- Prop Bets: These let you bet on individual moments or player accomplishments, like whether a quarterback will pass for more than 250 yards.
Factors to Consider Before Betting
Smart bettors don’t just rely on gut feelings. Here are some things to think about before you lay down your money:
- Pay attention to injury reports and team lineups.
- Study how teams have performed recently, both home and away.
- Compare head-to-head results from previous matchups.
- Look at weather forecasts, which can impact the outcome.
- Watch for line movement that may signal sharp betting action or late-breaking news.
Conclusion
Mastering how to bet on NFL games isn’t just about luck—it’s about understanding your options, doing the homework, and making responsible choices. Start with the most common types like moneyline and spread bets, keep your wagers small, and enjoy every game knowing you’re betting smart. For tips on responsible gambling and staying in control, check out the National Council on Problem Gambling for practical advice and resources. And above all, always gamble responsibly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the easiest bet for NFL beginners?
The moneyline bet is the most straightforward—just pick the team you think will win, no math required.
Why do betting lines move before the game?
Lines shift when a lot of money comes in on one team, or if important news breaks, such as injuries or weather changes.
Can I wager on player stats or moments, not just the final score?
Absolutely! These are called proposition or “prop” bets, and they add another layer of excitement to each NFL game.
How much should I risk on each NFL wager?
Try sticking to 1-3% of your total bankroll per game; this approach limits losses and keeps betting fun.
Is it smarter to pick the favorite or the underdog?
There are good bets on both sides—what matters most is finding value by comparing odds with your own research and intuition.
You may also read: Sports Betting for Beginners: A Simple Guide to Get Started
