How to Bet on the NFL – Football Betting Explained
NFL Bet Types and Odds Explained
Taking the time to understand NFL-specific odds and bet types is some of the best advice you can get. When researching how to bet on sports, there are a few common wagers you’ll run into. We’ll start with moneylines, which are the easiest and most popular, before moving into spread betting, totals, props, futures, and more.
NFL Moneyline Betting
Betting on the moneyline is one of the simplest NFL wagers you can make, especially for beginners. The moneyline is a bet on whatever team will be on the winning side. There is no need to worry about the number of points scored in a game or how many points a team wins by. Simply predict who wins at the end of the game.
Moneyline Example:
Let’s take the example of the Dallas Cowboys at home against the Philadelphia Eagles. The moneyline odds might have the Cowboys as the favorite at -120. Favorites will always be shown with a negative sign. This means you would bet $120 to win $100 on Dallas. The Eagles would be the underdog, indicated by a positive sign, and their odds might be +110. Here, you would need to bet $100 to win $110 on the Eagles.NFL Spread Betting
NFL spread betting is a bet on which team is favored to win by a certain number of points. You can also wager on a team to not lose by a more than a certain amount of points. Essentially, betting on an NFL spread, is like giving the favored team a handicap that they need to cover, and vice versa for the underdog.
Spread Bet Example:
Keeping with the Philadelphia Eagles and Dallas Cowboys, the Cowboys might be favored at -2.5, so Dallas would have to win by 3 points or more for the bet to come through, as you obviously can’t win by a half point. In this example, Philadelphia is the underdog at +2.5, so they would need to lose by less than 2.5 points (2 or fewer), or win outright to cash their side of the bet. Most spreads are set by a half-point to avoid a push. A push means the outcome lands on that number, and the bettor just wins their wager amount back.NFL Totals Betting
Over/under betting is also referred to as totals betting. Here, you are betting on what you think the total points will be at the end of the game. Oddsmakers set a number for how many combined points in the game they feel will be scored, and NFL bettors wager on if the final score will go over or under the projection.
Totals Example:
The total for the Eagles/Cowboys might be 49.5. In this type of bet, you would wager on whether the final score will be over or under a certain total. If the final score if 30–27, that adds up to 57 points and would count as the over on a 49.5 bet. However, a score such as 23-20 would only equal 43 points, and would therefore go under a total of 49,5.NFL Prop Betting
Wagering on team and player prop bets don’t deal with the game’s outcome. Instead, they try to predict certain events that might happen to a player or a team within the game. Most props focus on statistical outcomes for either a team or individual player, but they can also focus on game situations like the coin toss winner, or for a team to be winning at halftime.
Player Prop Example
An example of a player prop in the NFL could be Patrick Mahomes’ passing yards line, set at 299.5. You would bet the over/under on that number for Mahomes’ total passing yards, trying to predict his outcome. The most popular player prop is betting on touchdown scorers—to either score first, or to find the endzone at any time in the game. Rushing yards, wide receiver receptions, which player will get the first penalty, and field goals are also popular.Team Prop Example
An example of a team prop might be, “Will the Packers score on their first drive?” You would bet a simple yes/no answer for this. Do your research on these types of props, as you might find out that the Packers are a fast-starting team. Simpler NFL team props could focus on the over/under for just one team’s total points scored or their number of TDs scored.NFL Futures Betting
Making futures bets is when you wager on long-term outcomes for a season. These can include division bets, conference winners, Super Bowl champs, win totals, and a wide variety of player milestones and awards.
Futures Examples:
For example, betting on Super Bowl winners can be a futures bet. Odds for Super Bowl winners are usually released as soon as the season ends, so you can bet on the outcome long before the season even starts. Other examples of NFL futures are NFL MVP, Rookie of the Year, Offensive Player of the Year, Coach of the Year, NFC/AFC Conference Champions, and season win totals.NFL Parlay Betting
Parlay bets are a popular bet type when you combine two or more bets into one large NFL bet. You can do this with moneylines, spreads, props, totals, and futures. The payouts on these bets will be larger and tempting to pursue. However, remember that you’ll need every outcome or “leg” of the parlay to hit in order to win.
Parlay Example:
Let’s stick with moneylines for this example. Say that the Dallas Cowboys are favored at -120, but you want to parlay that with the Miami Dolphins, who are -150 against the New England Patriots, and the Seattle Seahawks are a +140 underdogs at the San Francisco 49ers. Those odds would be calculated at +633, which means you would win $633 on a $100 bet. However, all three legs of the parlay have to win, or you lose the entire bet. It’s one of the more high-risk NFL bets, so do your research.NFL Teaser Betting
Teaser bets are like parlays but used for combining multiple alternate spreads or totals into one NFL bet. The payouts will be smaller, however, you’re adjusting the spreads or totals in your favor to increase your chances of winning.
Teaser Example:
Let’s take the above three teams and say that the Cowboys are favored at -2.5, the Dolphins are favored at -4.5 and the Seahawks are a +3.5 underdog. You can tease the lines to make it more tenable for you. If it’s a four-point teaser bet, you can make it Dallas -6.5, Miami at -8.5, and Seattle +7.5. The odds’ price change would vary, but you would receive less of a payout since you are buying points. Also, similar to parlays, all three legs of your teaser have to win to get paid out. Another teaser betting strategy is to play 6-point teasers where you tease favorites from -7.5 to -1.5 or underdogs from +1.5 to +7.5, therefore, crossing two key numbers of 3 and 7.Understanding NFL Odds (American Odds)
Understanding how betting odds work, especially American odds, can take a little getting used to, depending on how you are accustomed to viewing odds. Typically, sportsbooks show odds in three options—fractional, decimal, and American.
American Odds Example:
In American odds, the favorite is denoted with a “-” sign before odds, such as -200. Whereas, the underdog has a “+” sign, such as +150. And even-money wager is displayed as +100. So a $100 wager at +100 odds, would return $200 ($100 initial wager and $100 of profit). A +150 wager is essentially the same as a 1.5 return, meaning that same $100 bet would return a total of $250 ($150 profit). Meanwhile, a bet on -200 odds is the opposite, returning just a 50% ROI. Therefore, a $100 bet generates a $150 return and just $50 of profit.If you want a better idea of how to calculate NFL odds, check out our odds calculator.
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How To Create an Account and Place NFL Bets
You’ll have to create an online sportsbook account before your NFL betting journey can begin. It’s a straightforward process, but follow this quick guide to make sure you’re not skipping any crucial steps.
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Considering our recommendations, but most of all your preferences, select the sportsbook you’d like to start betting with. Take a peek at our other sportsbook reviews if you want further information on a particular site.
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After you’ve chosen a sportsbook to start betting with, navigate through their website or mobile app to find an option to register an account. Typically, this is a button that says, “Get Started” or “Join Now”.
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You’ll need to fill in the necessary personal details as prompted. For most betting sites, this includes your full name, date of birth, address, phone number, and email.
Some sportsbooks might request documents for further verification, including recent utility bills or a photo of your government I.D.
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After you’re registered, you’ll need to put money into your account. Visit the banking section of your chosen sportsbook and select your preferred option of payment.
Deposit your chosen amount and wait for your account to update your bankroll. Remember to only bet what you can afford to lose.
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Typically, sportsbooks offer welcome bonuses for first-time deposits. Sometimes, there will be multiple bonuses depending on their criteria, like crypto-specific bonuses. Make sure to confirm your sportsbook’s promotions beforehand.
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Now that your account has a bankroll, and you’ve redeemed your bonus, start making some NFL bets. Navigate to the NFL or football section of your sportsbook and explore the options at your disposal.
You’ll find moneylines, spreads, totals, and plenty of other types to experiment with. Remember to gamble responsibly and have fun.
What Is NFL Live Betting?
NFL live betting is growing in popularity each year as online sportsbook technology improves. It lets players bet on live NFL games and the ever-changing odds in real-time. If you’re curious to see it in action, Bovada and Everygame are two sportsbooks with an assortment of live betting options for the NFL and beyond.
For Example:
An NFL matchup between the Kansas City Chiefs and Denver Broncos might start with Kansas City’s spread at -7.5, meaning KC is favored by 7.5 points at kickoff. However, the Broncos are playing well and leading the game into the fourth quarter. The live odds for this game might have Denver’s spread at -1.5 at the start of the final quarter, making them the new favorites. If you had bet on the Chiefs at the beginning of the game, you might want to bet on Denver at this point to hedge your bet and attempt to come out even. NFL live betting odds can also adjust moneylines, totals, and more.Beginner Tips for NFL Live Betting
Always be prepared for live betting on the NFL, as the odds change quickly. If you aren’t, you might make snap decisions that lead to losing wagers. Here are a few tips to get you started on live betting:
Tips for NFL Betting
Whether you’re a newbie or you’ve been wagering on the NFL for a decade, betting advice on NFL games is essential. Here are our top five tips for helping you become a successful and profitable NFL bettor:
Make a Bankroll Management Strategy: Before placing bets, set aside funds you’re comfortable losing if a game doesn’t go your way. A good money-saving tip is to only bet 2–5% of your bankroll per game to ensure your money lasts as long as possible. Solid sports betting bankroll management can go a long way.
Shop Different Sportsbooks for the Best Odds: It’s always good to shop around for the best odds to see where you can get the most betting value. For example, you might see the New Orleans Saints at -200 to beat the Carolina Panthers at one sportsbook, but they could be -160 at BetOnline or BetUS. The latter line offers more value for you. Most sportsbooks have similar lines, but you can always find one with the most value.
Always Use Updated Data and Trends: Don’t bet on a team because their quarterback went to your favorite college or the team was good 2–3 years ago. Use the statistical analysis and trends in our resources above to support your NFL betting decisions.
Monitor Weekly Injury Reports: A serious injury to a player can damage a team’s hopes that week and impact their future success. Keep an eye on injury reports until kickoff (and even during games).
Limit the Amount of Parlays You Play: Parlays are enticing as payouts increase as you add more games. However, they’re also riskier as you need all the games to hit to win. Stick with moneylines, especially as you’re just starting out. The payouts aren’t as high, but you only depend on one outcome to get paid out.
Advanced NFL Betting Strategies
Betting on the NFL can be done in many ways and by following some additional strategies you can set yourself up for a successful season. We recommend following these advanced NFL betting strategies below to fine-tune your approach.
Line Movement and Timing: Betting early in the week will often create opportunities to get the best of the number. Most public bettors only bet in the days and hours before NFL games kick off and after key information like injuries have been released. Doing your research and betting early will often allow you to get better odds before the lines move.
Monitor the Weather: Weather conditions can wreak havoc in a game plan. Remember look ahead to any potential inclement weather that could impact your upcoming bets. Rain, snow, temperature, and especially wind, are key factors to consider.
Public vs Sharp Action: Monitor sources that track public and sharp betting action. Typically, you’re better off being on the side of the sharp or professional bettors. As most recreational bettors are longterm losing bettors, avoiding the most “public” bets can be a good strategy. However, remember that not all public bets lose and not all sharp bets win.
Track Reverse Line Movement: When the line moves in the opposite direction of public betting percentages, this often indicates that sharp money has been bet. For example, If 70% of bets are on Team A, but the line moves from -3 to -2.5 for Team B, sharp money is likely backing the dog.
Betting on Key Numbers: NFL scores are heavily clustered around key numbers like 3, 7, and 10, due to how points are scored. So for example, betting a team +3.5 instead of +3 provides significant value.
Pay Attention To Matchups: Targeting key matchups is crucial to improving your football betting. For instance, if a team with a strong receiving core is going up against a weak secondary on the defense, consider betting on the team with strong receivers. Or, consider targeting some of those receivers with yardage or reception props. Similarly, a team with a poor rushing defense, could be ripe for the picking against a team with a strong offensive line and running back.
Learn To Bet on the Super Bowl
Every year, the Super Bowl betting is expected to bring in billions of dollars in wagers, making it one of the featured events of the betting world. Below, we’ve provided five strategies for making better Super Bowl bets and finding increased value this season.
Where You Can Bet on the NFL
Betting on the NFL online is one of the easiest ways to bet on football this season. Online sportsbooks allow players to make a variety of bets like moneylines, spreads, and teasers. You’ll be able to shop for the best odds and lines for Super Bowl futures and player props.
Additionally, some of the best NFL sportsbooks offer exciting season-long and weekly handicapping contests.
Nearly every NFL betting site also offer lucrative welcome bonuses for new customers. With deposit matches for hundreds and even thousands of dollars, new customers can easily boost their bankroll by making a first-time qualifying deposit.
Top Recommended NFL Sportsbooks
Bovada Top Choice for New NFL Bettors
Bovada stands out for NFL betting with deep market coverage, including player props, alternate spreads, and same-game parlays. Its early line releases and sharp in-game betting tools make it a favorite among seasoned football bettors.
New players will appreciate the clean interface and helpful bet explanations, making it easy to get started. With crypto-friendly payouts, Bovada is built for both rookies and pros.
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Everygame Top Betting Event Coverage
Everygame offers a solid NFL betting experience with competitive odds, tons of weekly game lines, and a wide range of props—including team totals, player stats, and quarter spreads.
The sportsbook frequently runs NFL-specific promotions and parlay boosts that add extra value. New bettors will find the layout intuitive, while experienced players can appreciate the reliable live betting and early odds releases each week.
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Responsible Gambling for NFL Bettors
We encourage all players to gamble responsibly. Remember that online betting is a form of entertainment, not a source of income. Set loss limits and time limits. Budget your bankroll ahead of time to avoid losing more than you can afford to. Keeping these tips in mind will help you have fun and remain a responsible gambler.
If you are over-preoccupied with thoughts about gambling or exceed your budget regularly, you might benefit from some help. Consider the resources below if you recognize the warning signs and symptoms in yourself or a loved one:
- National Council on Problem Gambling: (202) 547-9204 or NCPGambling.org
- GambleAware: https://www.gambleaware.org/
- Gambler’s Anonymous: gamblersanonymous.org/ga/
- Responsible Gambling Council: http://www.responsiblegambling.org/
NFL Betting FAQs
Many U.S states have recently passed legislation for in-state regulated sports betting. As of 2025 there are 38 states, plus Washington D.C and Puerto Rico which have legalized sports betting. Additionally, online U.S sportsbooks allow for wagering offshore.
New NFL bettors should focus on creating a bankroll management strategy to decide how much they’re willing to risk per bet. From there, focus on stats, trends, injury reports, and other data-focused insights to create your bets, versus betting on popular teams or your favorite hometown team.
Yes, you can bet on NFL pre-season games. Standard wagers like moneylines, spreads, totals, and player props are available. Remember that betting markets may be more limited during the preseason and that not all of the star players always play.
Yes. Betting on individual player performances in NFL games can be done by betting on player props. Popular props include touchdown scorers, passing yards, receptions, penalties, and more.
The best NFL bet to make for a beginner is to wager on the moneyline. This type of football bet simply requires you to correctly predict the winner of the game.
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