Understanding NFL Odds and Betting Lines

Read Time:2 Minute, 41 Second

The popularity of sports betting is no secret. After online sportsbooks, there has been a rapid increase in their adoption. Betting on NFL football requires a thorough understanding of how odds work and how they are read. To make informed bets, you must know this information.

In order to equalize the playing field, bookmakers use odds to even out bets. Despite the fact that the NFL is generally parity, some teams have more success than others.

Before betting on an NFL game, you should understand the types of bets and their payout structures. To maximize your total payout, you can utilize several popular NFL betting options each week of the season.

Types of NFL Bets

Moneyline

It is the most straightforward way of wagering in an NFL match. All you need is to pick a team that you believe will win the match. Each match features a favorite and an underdog. The name tells you all.

The favorite team is considered to win the match and the odds are indicated by a minus sign. Similarly, an underdog has the least chance of winning the match, and the odds are designated by a plus sign.

NFL lines are determined using several factors; Stats, head-to-head records, venue, and players are some elements that help in formulating odds. For example, in a match between the LA Rams and Las Vegas Raiders, the Rams would have odds of -200, and the Raiders would have +200.

It means if you bet $100 on the Raiders, in case of a win, you would win $300 in total. Whereas you need to wager $200 on the Rams to win $100. Since an underdog is a risky option, the payout is higher and vice versa.

Over and under odds

This is another simple way of betting in the NFL. The odds are easy to read as the oddsmaker sets total points considering all the factors. In this bet, you need to select if the total score of the match will be under or over, regardless of the outcome.

For example, in a match between the Rams and the Raiders, the total points are set at 48. If you bet at over, it means the combined total must be 49 or more. If you choose under, it means the total points must be 47 or lower.

How to pick a winner in the NFL match?

There are several elements that you need to consider before wagering.

Venue

Home and away matches give an equal opportunity to both teams competing. The home advantage is relevant and affects the odds of winning.

Matchups

Divisional matchups and playing in playoffs are two separate things. Many teams perform well within the division, and matches tend to be closer. It is crucial to consider this factor when wagering.

Day and time of the match

This may not sound important, but it is critical. Fatigue and back-to-back matches can impact performance. Traveling across the country to play a match can affect the result.

Injury reports

Being a team sport, reliance on quarterbacks is not enough. You need to look at the injuries of other players as well. If there will be any substitution, you should have information about it.