Introduction to Sports Betting

If you’re a huge sports fan and are looking for a fun and profitable hobby, online sports betting is for you. You may already enjoy playing at one of the best USA casinos and want to try your hand at something new. There are several online sportsbooks clamoring for your business and willing to offer bonuses. Before creating an online sportsbook account, you should take a minute to familiarize yourself with the different types of bets available.

Making a Straight Bet

The most common type of bet is a straight bet in which a bettor wagers on either the favorite or underdog to win. In basketball and football, a point spread is taken into consideration. For example, if you bet on the Miami Dolphins, who are favored by two points over the Oakland Raiders, Miami must win by at least three points in order for you to win the bet. If Miami wins by two, it is a tie and the funds are re-deposited into your account.

Making a Money Line Bet

With a money line bet, you simply select a winner with no regard for the point spread. If you bet on the underdog to win, your payout would be much higher than picking a heavy favorite, where the odds are much higher for a victory.

Making a Totals or Over/Under Bet

If you’re not sure which team to bet on, you can bet on the total points the two teams will combine to score. This type of bet is known as totals or over/under bet. For example, it is projected the Houston Texans and Buffalo Bills will score a total of 44 points and you bet on the under. The two teams must score no more than 43 points for you to win.

Making a Parlay Bet

The parlay offers bettors an opportunity to make big bucks without risking much. A parlay bet involves two to 12 games and increases in payout the more games you wager on. If you have a five game parlay and one of the games has a no action outcome, you still get paid out on the other four games. If any of your wagers lose, it kills the rest of the parlay.

Making a Teaser Bet

A teaser bet is similar to a parlay in that it involves multiple games but differs because it gives you the ability to alter the point spread. The ability to move the point spread increases your chances to win. However, the amount of money you are awarded is much lower than a standard parlay with the actual spreads.