Moneyline Betting: When and Why to Use It
Discover the simplicity of moneyline betting, where you simply pick the winner of a game. Learn when moneyline bets are a strategic choice compared to point spreads, especially when betting on underdogs.
What is a Moneyline Bet?
A moneyline bet is the simplest type of sports wager. You are simply betting on which team or player will win a game or match. There is no point spread to consider, making it a straightforward bet for beginners to understand.
How to Read Moneyline Odds
Moneyline odds are displayed in the American odds format, with a plus (+) and minus (-) sign to indicate the underdog and the favorite.
- The Favorite (-): The favorite is the team expected to win. The number next to the minus sign shows how much you need to bet to win $100. For example, if a team is a -200 favorite, you need to bet $200 to win $100.
- The Underdog (+): The underdog is the team expected to lose. The number next to the plus sign shows how much you will win for every $100 you bet. For example, if a team is a +150 underdog, a $100 bet will win you $150.
When to Bet the Moneyline
While the point spread is popular in sports like football and basketball, there are times when a moneyline bet is a better strategic choice.
- Betting on Underdogs: Moneyline bets on underdogs can offer significant payouts. If you believe an underdog has a good chance of winning the game outright, a moneyline bet can be more profitable than a point spread bet.
- Low-Scoring Sports: In low-scoring sports like baseball, hockey, and soccer, the moneyline is the most common way to bet. The small margin of victory in these sports makes point spread betting less appealing.
- When You're Confident in the Winner: If you are very confident that a team will win, but you are unsure if they will cover the point spread, a moneyline bet is a safer option. You won't have to worry about the margin of victory.
Moneyline vs. Point Spread
The choice between a moneyline and a point spread bet depends on the sport, the teams involved, and your confidence in your pick. Here's a quick comparison:
| Feature | Moneyline | Point Spread |
|---|---|---|
| Bet Type | Pick the outright winner | Bet on the margin of victory |
| Best For | Underdogs, low-scoring games | High-scoring games |
| Payouts | Varies based on odds | Typically around -110 |
By understanding the differences between moneyline and point spread betting, you can make more informed decisions and choose the best type of wager for each situation.