NFL
American Football Betting Guide: How to Bet on NFL
American Football has exploded in popularity worldwide, and with that growth comes a thriving world of NFL betting.
Whether you’re new to American football or a seasoned fan, understanding the markets, odds, and strategies can make watching the games even more exciting and potentially rewarding.
This guide covers everything you need to know about betting on the NFL, from the basics to advanced tips.
The Basics of NFL Betting
Before placing any wagers, it’s important to understand the core types of NFL bets. The three most popular markets are moneyline, point spread, and total points.
Moneyline Bets
Moneyline bets are the simplest and most straightforward way to bet on an NFL game. Here, you’re simply picking which team will win the game outright.
Odds reflect the perceived chances of each team winning. Favourites are offered at lower odds because they’re more likely to win, while underdogs provide higher payouts to reflect their lower chances.
For example, if the Kansas City Chiefs are favourites against the Houston Texans, a £10 bet on the Chiefs may return £18, while the same stake on the Texans could return £50 if they win. Moneyline bets are ideal for anyone looking for a simple way to bet on a game.
Point Spread Betting
Point spread betting, also called handicap betting, is a more strategic option. The bookmaker sets a points figure for each team to balance the contest.
- Favourites receive a negative spread (they must win by more than this number of points).
- Underdogs receive a positive spread (they can lose by fewer points than the spread or win outright).
For example, if the Chiefs are -9.5 and the Texans +9.5, a bet on the Chiefs only wins if they beat the Texans by 10 or more points. If they win 30-25, the Texans have “covered the spread,” and bets on the Chiefs lose. Understanding point spreads requires insight into team form, injuries, and matchups.
Total Points (Over/Under)
Total points betting, often called over/under, asks you to predict whether the combined score of both teams will be higher or lower than a number set by the bookmaker.
For instance, if the line is 48.5 points, an over bet wins if the final score adds up to 49 points or more, while an under bet wins if the total is 48 or fewer. This market is perfect for those who follow team scoring trends and game pace closely.
Other NFL Betting Markets
While the main markets cover most wagers, NFL betting also includes a variety of other options that can add excitement throughout the season.
Outright Betting
Outright bets focus on season-long outcomes rather than single games. Common markets include:
- Super Bowl winner
- Conference champions
- Playoff qualifiers
- Regular season MVP or Coach of the Year
These bets are placed before or during the season and often offer high odds, rewarding those who can spot teams and players set to excel over the long term.
Prop Bets
Prop bets, or proposition bets, focus on specific events within a game rather than the final result. Examples include:
- First team to score a touchdown
- Player rushing for over a certain number of yards
- Team with the most turnovers
Prop bets are highly popular because they allow for a range of strategic wagers and keep matches engaging even when the overall result seems predictable.
Parlays and Accumulators
NFL parlays (accumulators) combine multiple selections into a single bet. While every selection must win to succeed, the potential returns are significantly higher than betting individually. Parlays are ideal for experienced bettors who want to leverage research across multiple games.
How to Build Your NFL Betting Strategy
Successful NFL betting goes beyond luck. It’s about preparation and informed decision-making. Here are some key strategies:
- Research Teams and Players – Examine recent form, head-to-head records, and any injuries or suspensions that could impact performance.
- Understand Betting Markets – Don’t focus only on favourites in the game result markets; spreads, totals, and prop bets offer opportunities to find value.
- Manage Your Bankroll – Set a betting budget and stick to it. NFL games can be unpredictable, and careful staking reduces risk.
- Consider Live Betting – In-game betting lets you respond to momentum shifts and scoring patterns, offering dynamic opportunities for profit.
Why NFL Betting is Growing
Betting on American football combines strategy, analysis, and the thrill of the game. The NFL season is long and packed with storylines, making it ideal for both match-by-match betting and season-long wagers. From Super Bowl betting to prop bets and point spreads, there’s something for everyone.
By understanding the markets, studying the teams, and applying smart strategies, NFL betting can add a new layer of enjoyment to one of the world’s most exciting sports and can be a gateway for casual punters to become hardened NFL fans.
