Sports betting is an increasingly popular way to bet on sporting events. It’s legal in 20 states and is available at a variety of online and retail sportsbooks. However, before you start gambling, there are a few things you should know:
The first step to becoming a sports bettor is understanding the basics of the sport and the different betting types. You’ll also need to familiarize yourself with the language and terminology that bettors use.
Money lines: These are bets on which team is expected to win a game and are most common in baseball and hockey games. They can be a great way to find value when lines change.
Point spreads: These are bets on which team will win a game by a specific number. They’re often used in college football and the Super Bowl, but are also available in other high-profile sports like basketball and golf. For example, in the 2019 Super Bowl, New England was a 2.5-point favorite to win over Los Angeles. The Patriots won by 10, so a bettor would win this bet if they chose New England.
Totals: These are bets on how many points will be scored in a game, including overtime or extra innings. These bets are often made as part of a teaser wager.
Futures: These are bets on events that happen further down the line – or in the future. They can be good for a quick payout, but can also be risky, especially when teams lose key players during the season.
Ignoring the noise:
This may sound obvious, but many bettors make the mistake of relying on media buzz and other sources to pick the winners of a game. They can get caught up in the opinions of national TV shows and talk radio hosts, and can even overlook local beat reporters and their insights.
If you’re serious about a career in sports betting, you need to stop listening to the noise and take your time researching each team and player. Doing enough research is the only way to ensure that you’re making the right bets and getting the best possible odds.
Bet on teams you know and trust:
If it’s your first time betting on a certain team, make sure to check out their past records. You can do this by visiting the team’s website or looking up their recent results in the sports section of your newspaper. You can also ask around to friends who follow the team and ask them which players they think will perform well.
Stay away from teams with pretty uniforms:
If you’re a fan of one particular team, it’s important to set that fandom aside when placing your bets. This can be difficult, but it’s crucial to be able to separate yourself from your emotions.
The sportsbooks will be very happy to help you place your bets, but you need to have a clear head and not let your emotions influence your decisions. You can do this by taking a few deep breaths and making sure that you’re 100% clear on your thoughts before placing your bets.