How to Bet on Sports at a Sportsbook
Written by
Moneyline bets
If you’re a newbie to sports betting, moneyline bets can be a good way to get started. Just make sure you select the right team, player, or combination of teams. Moneyline prices can vary wildly from one sportsbook to the next. In general, you should bet at least $150 to win $100 on the favorite, and $150 to win $100 on the underdog.
Although there is a slight house edge on moneyline bets, the odds are generally low enough that they’re worth placing if you’re confident in your pick. Before placing a moneyline bet, be sure to carefully read all the rules and odds. Here are a few tips to help you make a wise choice:
First, choose a game with high liquidity. This will allow you to place multiple bets and free up your time. You can also consider placing a parlay bet, which combines several individual wagers into one bet. These bets are more complicated than straight bets, but can be incredibly lucrative when used correctly.
Parlays
Parlays are a great way to bet on multiple games. With a parlay, you can place a bet on the total score of several games, and the oddsmakers will set a number for each game. For example, if you bet on two basketball games with over/under totals, the total score must be less than 60 points. On the other hand, if you bet on two football games with totals of more than 45 points, the total score must exceed the predicted score.
You can include favorite teams in your parlay. These teams usually have no value as single-game wagers, but adding them to your parlay will boost your overall parlay odds. However, keep in mind that the odds for favorites will not increase as much as the spread line, so it is a good idea to use them as a safety bet.