Points betting is a relatively new form of sports betting that has emerged in recent years. Unlike traditional fixed odds betting, where you bet on who will win or lose a game, points betting allows you to bet on how much a team will win or lose by. With points betting, the more points scored above or below the spread, the more you win or lose. This type of betting adds an extra element of excitement to watching sports, as you have an interest in every point scored. In this article, we will take a closer look at exactly what points betting is and how it works.
How Points Betting Works
Points betting operates by setting a spread, or margin, on a given sports event. This is usually set by the bookmaker or betting agency. For example, in an NFL game between the New England Patriots and Miami Dolphins, the bookmaker may set the spread at Patriots -7 points. This means the Patriots are expected to win by 7 points.
If you bet on the Patriots, you are betting that they will win by more than 7 points. If you bet on the Dolphins, you are betting they will lose by less than 7 points or even win the game outright.
For every point the Patriots win by over 7, you win an amount proportional to your stake. So if they win by 10, you win 3 times your stake. If they win by 17, you win 10 times your stake.
However, points betting also means you can lose more than your original stake. If the Patriots only win by 3 points, you would lose 4 times your stake.
This is how points betting amplifies both wins and losses compared to regular fixed odds betting. The thrill comes from having an interest in every single point scored above or below the spread.
Advantages of Points Betting
There are several key advantages to points betting for sports enthusiasts:
- Adds excitement by having an interest in every point scored
- Allows you to win big if your team exceeds expectations
- Gives losing teams a chance to cover the spread and win bets
- Allows betting on lopsided games by adjusting the spread
- Can lead to less disappointment on close losses
Points betting also levels the playing field between favorites and underdogs. Heavy underdogs can cover a wide point spread and allow their backers to win big.
Risks and Downsides
While points betting can increase excitement and payouts, there are some downsides to understand:
- Increased volatility compared to fixed odds betting
- Potential for large losses if the point spread is missed badly
- Requires an understanding of how spreads are set
- Needs constant attention throughout the game
- Can lead to losses in the final minutes or seconds
It is important to manage your bankroll properly when points betting, as the volatility means you can lose money quickly on a bad day. For this reason, points betting is not suited to all bettors, especially those adverse to risk.
Tips for Getting Started
If you want to get started with points betting, here are some useful tips:
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Start small | Place small bets initially to understand how spreads and payouts work |
| Focus on your best sport | Only points bet on sports you know extremely well |
| Manage bankroll | Be conservative with how much you risk on each bet |
| Don’t chase losses | Stick to your process even after losses |
| Shop for odds | Compare spreads at multiple sportsbooks |
While points betting is complex, it’s easy to grasp with a bit of guidance. Taking a measured approach allows you to enjoy it as an entertaining form of sports betting.
Common Strategies for Points Betting
There are many ways to approach points betting, depending on your style, sport knowledge, and level of risk tolerance. Here are some of the most common strategies used:
Betting Against Public Opinion: This involves fading popular public opinion by betting on the unpopular side. Public money often bets favorites, so underdogs against the spread can provide value.
Focusing on Totals Markets: Rather than spread markets, target over/under lines. Sports like basketball with high scores can lead to nice payouts on overs.
Identifying Steam Moves: Sharp bettors often drive odds movement. If a points spread jumps, it may signal smart money.
Buying Points: You can buy extra points on a spread for a higher potential payout. Useful if you feel the market has set the number just right.
Hedging Bets: Points bets on both teams in a game can hedge each other. Provides a chance at winning both bets.
There are many other advanced strategies like arbitrage and middling that skilled bettors use as well. Keep researching strategies and use those aligned with your risk tolerance.
Tips for Points Betting Success
Points betting introduces more complexity than simply picking winners. Here are some tips that can help lead to success:
- Specialize in one sport deeply rather than dabbling in many sports. The NFL, for example, has a defined season length, high scoring, and extensive stats for analysis.
- Handicap games yourself to form your own opinion on appropriate spreads. Don’t rely solely on published spreads.
- Follow line moves closely and understand why spreads are shifting. Be alert for injury news or sharp action.
- Have accounts with multiple sportsbooks to compare spreads and maximize value.
- Avoid betting outliers until you have sufficient bankroll. The most lopsided spreads come with the most risk.
- Employ proper bankroll management and bet small percentages of your overall capital. Avoid desperate chasing of losses.
- Develop iron-clad discipline to stick to your process during inevitable hot and cold streaks. Don’t bet outside your limits.
While points betting carries risk, approaching it systematically based on value can make it a rewarding addition to watching your favorite sports.
Points betting represents a new form of sports betting that has emerged in recent years. While the volatility may not suit everyone, it can add immense enjoyment when used properly. By understanding how it works, spreading risk, and sticking to a process, points betting opens up possibilities beyond simple win/lose bets. Approachable, entertaining and filled with potential, points betting promises to increase in popularity across many major sports in the years ahead.