Moneyline Betting: Complete Guide for US Sports Bettors (2025)

Quick Definition & Key Takeaways

A moneyline bet is the simplest form of sports betting: you pick which team or player will win the game outright. Unlike point spreads, you do not need to worry about margins of victory. If your pick wins, you win your bet.

Moneyline bets use American odds with plus and minus signs. Favorites show negative odds (like -150), meaning you risk more to win less. Underdogs show positive odds (like +130), meaning you risk less to win more. The bigger the favorite, the more negative the number. The bigger the underdog, the more positive the number.

At a glance, moneyline betting offers:

• Simple win-or-lose outcome with no point spreads to consider
• Favorites shown with negative odds, underdogs with positive odds
• Generally preferred when backing strong favorites or hunting underdog value
• Available across all major US sports including NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, and soccer

Jump to the Moneyline Calculator to see payouts instantly, or continue reading to understand how moneyline odds work and when they make the most sense for your bets.

Remember to bet within your limits and only with money you can afford to lose. More on safe staking and responsible gambling below.

Moneyline Betting Basics

What Is a Moneyline Bet?

A moneyline bet asks one simple question: who will win? You pick the team or player you think will come out on top, place your wager, and collect if your selection wins. There is no spread to cover, no total to go over or under. Just pick the winner.

For example, suppose the Kansas City Chiefs are playing the Denver Broncos. The moneyline might show Kansas City at -150 and Denver at +130. If you bet on Kansas City at -150, you need them to win the game. If they do, you collect. If they lose or tie, you lose your stake. The -150 tells you Kansas City is the favorite, so you risk more to win less. A 100 dollar bet on Kansas City at -150 wins about 67 dollars in profit.

If you bet on Denver at +130, you are backing the underdog. A 100 dollar stake wins 130 dollars in profit if Denver pulls off the upset. The positive number means you risk less to win more because Denver is less likely to win in the eyes of the oddsmakers.

This simplicity makes moneyline bets popular with beginners. You do not need to learn how spreads or totals work. You just need to know who you think will win.

For more on the absolute basics of moneyline betting, check our beginner-focused guide (coming soon).

How Moneyline Odds Work Across Sports

Moneyline betting is available in nearly every sport, but the format can vary slightly by league.

In most US sports like the NFL, NBA, MLB, and NHL, you see two-way moneylines. Each team gets a moneyline price, and the game result determines the winner. If the game ends in a tie in the NFL or NHL (after overtime in regular season NHL), most sportsbooks treat moneyline bets as a push and refund your stake. In the NBA and MLB, ties are extremely rare or do not happen, so the moneyline is always win-or-lose.

In soccer and some hockey markets, you may encounter three-way moneylines. These include three outcomes: Team A wins, Team B wins, or the match ends in a draw. For instance, a Premier League match might show Arsenal at +120, Chelsea at +200, and Draw at +220. If you bet Arsenal and the match ends 1-1, you lose. Three-way moneylines cover regulation time only, so draws are a real outcome you must account for.

Understanding whether you are betting a two-way or three-way moneyline is critical. Always check the market rules at your sportsbook before placing a bet. For a deeper look at three-way moneylines, we have a dedicated guide (coming soon).

How to Read Moneyline Odds & What +150 Means

Favorites vs Underdogs (Negative vs Positive Odds)

Moneyline odds in the US use the American format with plus and minus signs. The minus sign indicates the favorite, and the plus sign indicates the underdog.

Negative odds tell you how much you need to risk to win 100 dollars. For example, if a team is listed at -200, you must bet 200 dollars to win 100 dollars in profit. Your total return would be 300 dollars (your 200 dollar stake plus 100 dollars profit).

Positive odds tell you how much profit you win from a 100 dollar stake. If a team is listed at +150, a 100 dollar bet wins 150 dollars in profit. Your total return would be 250 dollars (your 100 dollar stake plus 150 dollars profit).

The bigger the negative number, the heavier the favorite. A team at -300 is a bigger favorite than a team at -150. The bigger the positive number, the bigger the underdog. A team at +250 is a bigger underdog than a team at +120.

When both teams are roughly even, you might see pick'em odds like -110 on both sides, or one team at -105 and the other at -105. These matchups indicate a close game with no clear favorite.

How to Convert Odds to Payout

Converting moneyline odds to payout is straightforward once you know the formula.

For negative odds, divide 100 by the absolute value of the odds, then multiply by your stake:

Profit = (100 / absolute value of odds) x stake

Example: You bet 50 dollars on a team at -150. Profit = (100 / 150) x 50 = 33.33 dollars Total return = 50 + 33.33 = 83.33 dollars

For positive odds, divide the odds by 100, then multiply by your stake:

Profit = (odds / 100) x stake

Example: You bet 50 dollars on a team at +200. Profit = (200 / 100) x 50 = 100 dollars Total return = 50 + 100 = 150 dollars

These formulas work for any stake amount, not just 100 dollars. If the math feels tedious, use the calculator below to get instant results.

Implied Probability – Turning Odds Into Percentages

Implied probability shows you the likelihood of an outcome based on the odds offered. This is useful for comparing bets and understanding value.

For negative odds, the formula is:

Implied probability = absolute value of odds / (absolute value of odds + 100)

Example: Odds of -200 Implied probability = 200 / (200 + 100) = 200 / 300 = 66.67%

For positive odds, the formula is:

Implied probability = 100 / (odds + 100)

Example: Odds of +150 Implied probability = 100 / (150 + 100) = 100 / 250 = 40%

These probabilities add up to more than 100% when you combine both sides of a moneyline because the sportsbook builds in a margin (the vig). For instance, a moneyline of -110 / -110 on both sides has an implied probability of about 52.4% for each side, totaling roughly 105%. That extra 5% is the house edge.

Understanding implied probability helps you spot value. If you believe a team has a 50% chance to win but the odds imply only 40%, you may have found a good bet.

Here is a quick reference table for common moneyline odds and their implied probabilities:

Moneyline	Implied Probability
-200	66.7%
-150	60.0%
-110	52.4%
+100	50.0%
+150	40.0%
+200	33.3%
+300	25.0%

For a deeper dive into converting odds and calculating implied probability, see our dedicated odds conversion guide (coming soon).

Moneyline Betting Calculator & Payout Examples

Use the Moneyline Betting Calculator (Interactive Tool)

The calculator below helps you quickly determine your potential profit and total return for any moneyline bet. Just enter your stake and the moneyline odds, and the calculator shows your payout and implied probability.

The calculator accepts American odds (like -150 or +200) and calculates:

• Profit: How much you win if the bet hits
• Total return: Your profit plus your original stake
• Implied probability: The likelihood the sportsbook assigns to this outcome

Use this tool before placing any moneyline bet to understand the risk and reward clearly.

Worked Examples Using the Calculator

Let me walk you through a few common scenarios.

Example 1: Favorite at -150 with a 50 dollar stake

Enter -150 in the odds field and 50 in the stake field. The calculator shows:

• Profit: 33.33 dollars
• Total return: 83.33 dollars
• Implied probability: 60%

This means you risk 50 dollars to win about 33 dollars in profit. The sportsbook implies this favorite has a 60% chance to win.

Example 2: Underdog at +200 with a 20 dollar stake

Enter +200 in the odds field and 20 in the stake field. The calculator shows:

• Profit: 40 dollars
• Total return: 60 dollars
• Implied probability: 33.3%

You risk 20 dollars to win 40 dollars in profit. The sportsbook implies this underdog has a 33% chance to win.

Example 3: Pick'em at -110 with a 100 dollar stake

Enter -110 in the odds field and 100 in the stake field. The calculator shows:

• Profit: 90.91 dollars
• Total return: 190.91 dollars
• Implied probability: 52.4%

This is a nearly even matchup with standard vig. You risk 100 dollars to win about 91 dollars in profit.

When to Rely on the Calculator vs Doing the Math Yourself

For quick checks or when comparing multiple bets, the calculator is your best friend. Live betting moves fast, and you do not always have time to work out the math by hand. The calculator also reduces errors, especially when dealing with unusual odds like -137 or +245.

However, understanding the formulas helps you make better decisions when a calculator is not available. If you can quickly estimate that -200 means risking twice your potential profit, or that +150 means winning 1.5 times your stake, you can evaluate bets on the fly.

For most bettors, using the calculator is the smart move. Speed and accuracy matter more than doing mental math during a game.

How to Bet Moneyline Step by Step

Step 1 – Choose a Legal Sportsbook in Your State

Before you place any moneyline bet, you need an account with a legal, regulated sportsbook operating in your state. Regulated operators like DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, Caesars, and others are licensed by state gaming commissions and follow strict consumer protection rules.

Do not bet with offshore or unlicensed sites. These operators are not regulated, offer no consumer protections, and may not pay out winnings. Stick to brands with valid US licenses.

Check which sportsbooks are available in your state. Availability varies widely. For example, New York has dozens of operators, while some states have only a handful. Compare odds across multiple books to find the best prices for your bets.

You must be 21 or older to bet in most states. Some states set the age at 18. Always verify your state laws and the sportsbook terms before signing up.

For a comparison of the best moneyline betting sites by state, see our sportsbook reviews (coming soon).

Step 2 – Find the Moneyline Market

Once you have an account, navigate to the sport and game you want to bet. Moneyline markets are usually displayed prominently alongside point spreads and totals.

On mobile apps, the moneyline is often shown as a single number next to each team name. For example:

Kansas City Chiefs -150 Denver Broncos +130

On desktop, moneylines may appear in a table or grid format with spreads and totals in adjacent columns.

For three-way moneylines in soccer or hockey, you will see three options: Team A, Draw, Team B. Make sure you understand which market you are betting before placing your wager.

Step 3 – Enter Stake & Confirm Your Bet

Click or tap the moneyline odds for your chosen team. The selection will appear in your bet slip, usually on the right side of the screen or in a pop-up on mobile.

Enter your stake in the bet slip. Most sportsbooks show your potential payout and profit automatically. Double-check these numbers match your expectations.

Before you confirm, review:

• The team or player you selected
• The odds you are getting
• Your stake amount
• The potential return

Once you confirm, the bet is locked in. You cannot cancel or change it after the fact in most cases.

Set a stake you can afford to lose. Sports betting should be entertainment, not a way to make money or solve financial problems. If you find yourself betting more than you planned, take a break and reach out for help. See our Problem Gambling Help page for free, confidential support available 24/7.

Moneyline vs Point Spread: Which Should You Bet?

Key Differences at a Glance

The moneyline and point spread are the two most common bet types in US sports. Both have their place, and understanding when to use each gives you more options and better value.

Feature	Moneyline	Point Spread
Win condition	Team must win outright	Team must win by more than the spread (favorite) or lose by less than the spread (underdog)
Odds format	Varies widely (-300 to +250, etc.)	Usually close to -110 on both sides
Best for	Picking winners, backing underdogs, avoiding close margins	Betting on favorites without laying huge prices, leveling the field

The moneyline rewards you for picking the winner. The spread rewards you for picking the team that performs better relative to expectations.

When Moneyline Makes More Sense

Moneyline betting shines in a few key situations:

Short to moderate favorites: If a team is favored at -150 or less, the moneyline often offers better value than laying points. You avoid the risk of a close game where your team wins but fails to cover.

Underdog hunting: When you like an underdog to pull off an upset, the moneyline pays better than taking the points. A +200 underdog that wins outright delivers a much bigger payout than a +200 spread bet.

Low-scoring sports: In sports like baseball or soccer, where games are often decided by one or two runs or goals, the spread (called the run line in MLB) can feel too narrow or too wide. The moneyline gives you a cleaner bet on the winner.

Live betting: When odds shift during a game, moneylines can move dramatically. If a strong favorite falls behind early, you might find value on their moneyline at a better price than the pre-game spread.

Use simple probability-based reasoning when choosing the moneyline. If you believe a team has a 55% chance to win and the moneyline implies only 50%, you have found value.

When the Spread Might Be Better

Point spreads work better when:

Heavy favorites: If a team is -300 or more on the moneyline, you risk too much for too little profit. Taking the spread at -110 gives you a more balanced risk-reward, though you need the favorite to win by enough points.

Close games with a lean: If you like a team but the game feels like a toss-up, the spread can give you a cushion. Betting a +3 underdog means you win if they lose by 1 or 2 points, or if they win outright.

When shopping for the best price, compare the moneyline and spread to see which offers better value for your opinion on the game. Sometimes the spread is priced poorly, and the moneyline is the smarter play. Other times, the opposite is true.

For a full breakdown of when to use each bet type, see our dedicated Moneyline vs Spread comparison guide.

Set clear limits before you bet. Only wager what you can afford to lose, and avoid chasing losses by doubling up on spreads or moneylines.

Moneyline Betting by Sport (NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, Soccer)

NFL Moneyline Betting

NFL moneylines are popular because of the league parity and the excitement of picking underdogs. Games are often close, and upsets happen regularly, making underdog moneylines attractive.

Typical NFL moneylines range from -110 to -200 for favorites and +110 to +180 for underdogs. Heavy favorites might reach -300 or more, but these are rare outside of blowout matchups.

Key angles to consider:

Short favorites in divisional games: Divisional rivals know each other well, and games tend to be closer than the spread suggests. Moneylines of -140 or less can offer value in these matchups.

Big favorites at home: When an elite team hosts a weaker opponent, the moneyline can reach -400 or higher. These bets rarely offer value. Consider the spread instead, or skip the game entirely.

Underdogs with strong defenses: In the NFL, a good defense can keep an underdog close or help them win outright. Look for underdog moneylines when the favorite has offensive struggles or injury concerns.

For sport-specific NFL moneyline strategy and weekly picks, see our NFL moneyline hub (coming soon).

NBA Moneyline Betting

NBA moneylines are volatile. Teams can be short favorites one night and heavy favorites the next, depending on rest, injuries, and travel schedules.

Short-priced favorites are common in the NBA. A team might be -200 or -250 at home against a weaker opponent. Heavy favorites can reach -500 or more when stars play against tanking teams.

Key angles:

Late injury news: NBA lineups are fluid. A star player ruled out 30 minutes before tip-off can swing the moneyline by 100 points or more. Monitor injury reports closely.

Home-court advantage: NBA home teams win about 60% of games, but this advantage shrinks in the playoffs. Be cautious with road favorites at inflated prices.

Back-to-back games: Teams playing the second game of a back-to-back, especially on the road, often underperform. Look for underdog value in these spots.

Big upsets happen in the NBA, but they are less predictable than in the NFL. Tread carefully when betting heavy favorites or long-shot underdogs.

For NBA-specific strategy, see our NBA moneyline guide (coming soon).

MLB Moneyline Betting

In Major League Baseball, the moneyline is the primary bet type. Run lines exist, but most bettors focus on picking the winner because baseball is a low-scoring game where one run can decide the outcome.

MLB moneylines vary widely. A top pitcher facing a weak offense might be -200 or more. A matchup between two evenly matched teams might show -110 on both sides. Underdogs regularly sit at +150 to +200.

Key angles:

Pitching matchups: Starting pitchers drive MLB moneylines. A Cy Young-caliber pitcher can turn a team into a heavy favorite, while a struggling starter can make a strong team an underdog. Always check who is on the mound.

Underdog opportunities: MLB underdogs win outright about 40% of the time, much more often than in football or basketball. This makes underdog moneylines a staple of profitable MLB betting.

First-five innings (F5) moneylines: Many bettors prefer F5 moneylines because they focus on the starting pitcher and avoid late-inning bullpen chaos. These bets grade after five innings, regardless of the final score.

For a deep dive into MLB moneyline strategy, including how to bet pitching matchups and find underdog value, see our MLB moneyline hub (coming soon).

NHL & Soccer Moneylines (Including 3-Way)

NHL moneylines are typically two-way bets. If the game ends in a tie after regulation and overtime, the bet is graded based on the shootout result in most cases. Some books offer three-way moneylines for regulation time only, where a tie after 60 minutes is a valid outcome.

Soccer moneylines are almost always three-way. You bet on Team A to win, Team B to win, or the match to end in a draw. If you bet Team A and the match ends 1-1, you lose. Three-way moneylines cover regulation time (90 minutes plus stoppage time), not extra time or penalty shootouts unless specified.

Example three-way moneyline:

Arsenal +120 Draw +220 Chelsea +200

If you bet Arsenal and they win 2-1, you collect. If the match ends 1-1, you lose. If Chelsea wins, you lose.

Understanding the difference between two-way and three-way moneylines is critical. Always check the market rules before betting. For more on three-way moneylines, see our dedicated guide (coming soon).

Use draw no bet markets in soccer if you want to eliminate the draw outcome. These bets refund your stake if the match ends in a tie, giving you a two-way moneyline instead.

Advanced Moneyline Strategies: Parlays, SGPs & Live Betting

Building Moneyline Parlays the Right Way

Moneyline parlays combine multiple moneyline bets into one wager. All selections must win for the parlay to cash. The payout multiplies with each leg, making parlays attractive for chasing bigger returns with smaller stakes.

For example, a three-team moneyline parlay with each team at -110 pays about +600 (6-to-1). A 10 dollar bet wins 60 dollars in profit. The same three bets placed separately at -110 would risk 30 dollars to win about 27 dollars total.

Pros of moneyline parlays:

• Bigger payouts from small stakes
• Fun and exciting for recreational bettors
• Can combine favorites across multiple sports

Cons:

• All legs must win. One loss kills the entire parlay.
• The more legs you add, the lower your chance of winning.
• The house edge compounds with each leg, making long parlays poor value in the long run.

Guidance for smarter moneyline parlays:

• Keep leg count small. Two or three legs give you reasonable odds of winning while still boosting the payout.
• Avoid stacking heavy favorites. A five-leg parlay of -300 favorites might pay +200, but one upset wipes you out. The math rarely works in your favor.
• Do not use correlated legs unless you are building a same-game parlay. Correlated means the outcome of one bet affects another. For instance, betting two teams from the same division on the same day is not correlated, but betting the same team to win and their quarterback to throw three touchdowns is.

For a full breakdown of parlay strategy, including how to size your stakes and manage risk, see our Parlay Betting Guide.

Same-Game Parlays (SGPs) with Moneyline Legs

Same-game parlays let you combine multiple bets from the same game into one wager. You might bet a team to win on the moneyline, their quarterback to throw over 250 yards, and the total to go over 45 points.

SGPs often include correlated outcomes. For instance, if you bet the Kansas City Chiefs moneyline and Patrick Mahomes over passing yards, those outcomes are positively correlated. If Mahomes throws for 300 yards, Kansas City is more likely to win. Sportsbooks adjust SGP pricing to account for this correlation, so the payout is lower than an equivalent traditional parlay.

Key points for moneyline SGPs:

• Correlation works both ways. Some outcomes are negatively correlated. Betting a team to win and the total to go under can conflict if the team needs to score a lot to win.
• Operators adjust prices differently. Shop around for the best SGP odds. One book might offer +400 for a three-leg SGP, while another offers +350 for the same bets.
• Treat SGPs as entertainment. The pricing reflects correlation, and the house edge is often higher than traditional bets. Bet small and have fun.

Strong RG emphasis: SGPs are designed to be exciting and engaging, but they come with higher risk and lower expected value. Set strict limits before building SGPs, and never chase losses by adding more legs.

For more on building smart SGPs with moneyline legs, see our upcoming moneyline SGP strategy guide (coming soon).

Live Moneyline Betting Strategy

Live betting lets you place moneyline bets after the game starts. Odds shift constantly based on score, momentum, injuries, and time remaining.

Simple scenarios where live moneylines can offer value:

Strong favorite falls behind early: If a -200 favorite trails by a touchdown in the first quarter, their live moneyline might move to -110 or even pick'em. If you believe they will come back, this is a chance to back them at a better price than pre-game. However, be cautious. Sometimes teams fall behind because they are not playing well, not just because of bad luck.

Underdog jumps ahead: If a +200 underdog takes an early lead, their moneyline might drop to +120 or +100. If you believe the favorite will respond, you can hedge or find value on the favorite live.

Impact of injuries and momentum: A key injury during the game can shift the moneyline dramatically. If a starting quarterback leaves the game, the moneyline might swing by 200 points or more. Monitor the game closely and act quickly when you see value.

Live betting moves fast. Odds change every few seconds during critical moments. Make decisions quickly but do not bet impulsively. If you feel rushed or uncertain, skip the bet.

Set limits before the game: Live betting is exciting, but it is easy to chase losses or bet more than you planned. Decide your maximum stake for live bets before the game starts, and stick to it.

For more on live betting strategy, see our upcoming live moneyline guide (coming soon).

Bankroll Management for Moneyline Bets

Bankroll management is the foundation of long-term betting success. No strategy works if you blow your bankroll on a few bad bets.

Simple stake sizing for moneyline bets:

Flat staking: Bet the same amount on every moneyline, regardless of odds. For example, always bet 10 dollars. This keeps things simple and prevents emotional decisions.

Percentage staking: Bet a fixed percentage of your bankroll on each wager, like 1% or 2%. If your bankroll is 1,000 dollars, a 2% stake is 20 dollars. As your bankroll grows or shrinks, your stakes adjust automatically.

Unit system: Define a unit as 1% of your bankroll. Bet 1 unit on standard plays and 2 units on high-confidence plays. This gives you flexibility while keeping stakes proportional to your bankroll.

Clear warning against chasing losses or doubling up: If you lose a bet, do not immediately place a bigger bet to get even. This is called chasing, and it leads to bigger losses. Stick to your plan, accept the loss, and move on to the next bet.

For more on bankroll management and staking strategies, see our upcoming bankroll guide (coming soon).

Common Moneyline Mistakes & How to Avoid Them

Avoiding mistakes is just as important as making smart bets. Here are the most common moneyline errors and how to fix them.

Over-parlaying heavy favorites: Stacking five -300 favorites in a parlay might pay +200, but one upset kills the ticket. The math rarely works. Instead, bet favorites individually or skip them if the price is too steep.

Laying extreme prices like -500 regularly: Risking 500 dollars to win 100 dollars is a losing proposition long-term. One loss wipes out five wins. If a team is -500, the spread is often a better bet, or you can skip the game entirely.

Ignoring line movement and news: Moneylines move for a reason. Late injuries, weather changes, or sharp money can shift the line significantly. Always check for news before placing your bet, and monitor line movement to understand where the smart money is going.

Betting offshore or unregulated sites: Offshore books are not licensed in the US, offer no consumer protections, and may not pay out winnings. Stick to legal, regulated sportsbooks in your state. Your money and your data are safer with licensed operators.

Not shopping for the best price: One sportsbook might offer -140 on a team, while another offers -130. Over time, those 10-cent differences add up. Always compare odds across multiple books before placing your bet.

For each mistake, here is the fix:

• Keep parlays small (2-3 legs max) and avoid stacking heavy chalk.
• Skip moneylines at -300 or worse unless you have a strong reason to believe the price is wrong.
• Check injury reports, weather, and line movement before betting.
• Only bet with legal, regulated sportsbooks.
• Use an odds comparison tool or check multiple apps to find the best price.

RG messaging: If moneyline betting stops being fun or starts affecting your life negatively, take a break. Set deposit limits, loss limits, and time limits on your sportsbook accounts. Reach out for help if you need it. Visit our Problem Gambling Help page for free, confidential support available 24/7.

Best Sportsbooks for Moneyline Betting (US-Regulated Only)

When choosing a sportsbook for moneyline betting, look for competitive odds, a variety of sports and markets, strong live betting features, and same-game parlay options.

Here are a few key factors to consider:

Competitive odds: Small differences in moneyline prices add up over time. Books with consistently sharp odds save you money in the long run.

Variety of sports and markets: A good sportsbook offers moneylines for all major US sports, international soccer, tennis, MMA, and more. More markets mean more opportunities to find value.

Live betting and SGPs: If you enjoy live betting or building same-game parlays, choose a book with a robust live betting platform and wide SGP availability.

Promotions and bonuses: Many sportsbooks offer sign-up bonuses, profit boosts, and parlay insurance. These can add value, but always read the terms and conditions carefully. Bonuses often come with rollover requirements or restrictions.

Below is a short overview of what makes a good moneyline sportsbook. Availability varies by state, so check your local regulations and the sportsbook terms before signing up.

You must be 21 or older to bet in most states. Always verify your eligibility and understand your state laws.

Only bet with legal, regulated operators licensed by your state gaming commission. Do not use offshore or unlicensed sites. They offer no consumer protections and may not pay out winnings.

Affiliate disclosure: We may earn a commission when you sign up with one of our recommended sportsbooks. This does not affect your experience or the odds you receive. We only recommend licensed, regulated operators that meet our standards for safety and quality.

For a detailed comparison of the best moneyline sportsbooks by state, including promotions and market variety, see our upcoming sportsbook reviews (coming soon).

Responsible Gambling & Safety Checklist

Sports betting should be fun, optional, and affordable. If it stops being enjoyable or starts affecting your life negatively, take a break and reach out for help.

Here is your responsible gambling checklist:

Bet within a budget: Only wager money you can afford to lose. Never bet with money needed for bills, rent, food, or other essentials.

Set deposit and loss limits: Most legal sportsbooks let you set daily, weekly, or monthly deposit limits. Use these tools to stay in control. If your book does not offer limits, consider switching to one that does.

Avoid chasing losses: If you lose a bet, do not immediately place a bigger wager to get even. This leads to bigger losses and poor decisions. Stick to your plan, accept the loss, and move on.

Do not use moneyline bets to escape problems or relieve anxiety: Betting should be entertainment, not a coping mechanism. If you find yourself betting to forget about stress, work, or personal issues, take a break.

Take regular breaks: Even if you are winning, take time away from betting. Sports betting is a marathon, not a sprint.

Links to national and state responsible gambling resources:

• National Problem Gambling Hotline: 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537)
• National Council on Problem Gambling: ncpgambling.org
• For free, confidential support available 24/7, visit our Problem Gambling Help page.

If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, help is available. You do not have to face this alone.

FAQ: Moneyline Betting Questions Answered

What is a moneyline bet in simple terms?

A moneyline bet is a wager on which team or player will win a game outright. You do not need to worry about point spreads or totals. If your pick wins, you win the bet.

Is moneyline betting easier than spread betting?

Yes, for beginners. Moneyline bets are simpler because you only need to pick the winner. Spread bets require you to understand margins of victory and how spreads work. However, moneyline bets can be more expensive when backing heavy favorites.

What does -150 mean in moneyline odds?

-150 means the team is the favorite. You must risk 150 dollars to win 100 dollars in profit. Your total return would be 250 dollars (your 150 dollar stake plus 100 dollars profit).

What does +200 mean in moneyline odds?

+200 means the team is the underdog. A 100 dollar bet wins 200 dollars in profit. Your total return would be 300 dollars (your 100 dollar stake plus 200 dollars profit).

Is moneyline a good bet for beginners?

Yes. Moneyline bets are the simplest type of sports bet. You just pick the winner. However, beginners should start with small stakes and avoid heavy favorites or long-shot underdogs until they understand the odds and probabilities.

Can you lose money on a safe heavy favorite moneyline?

Absolutely. No bet is guaranteed, and upsets happen in every sport. Betting a -500 favorite means risking 500 dollars to win 100 dollars. If the favorite loses, you lose your entire 500 dollar stake. One upset can wipe out five wins at that price.

How do live moneyline odds change during a game?

Live moneyline odds shift constantly based on the score, time remaining, momentum, injuries, and other factors. A favorite trailing at halftime might see their odds improve from -200 to -110 or even +100. Oddsmakers adjust the line to reflect the current state of the game.

Is moneyline or spread better for parlays?

It depends on the odds and your strategy. Moneyline parlays let you pick winners without worrying about spreads, but heavy favorites offer poor value. Spread parlays typically have more balanced odds (around -110), making them easier to calculate. Both have their place. Keep parlays small (2-3 legs) and avoid stacking extreme favorites or underdogs.

When should I bet the moneyline instead of the spread?

Bet the moneyline when you like a short favorite (around -150 or less), when hunting underdog value, or when the spread feels too narrow or too wide for the matchup. The moneyline is also popular in low-scoring sports like baseball and soccer, where spreads can be awkward.

Can I combine moneyline and spread bets in the same parlay?

Usually, no. Most sportsbooks do not allow you to parlay the moneyline and spread from the same game because they are correlated outcomes. However, you can combine moneylines and spreads from different games in a traditional parlay, or use same-game parlay features if your book allows it.

Are there any sports where moneyline is not available?

Moneylines are available in nearly every sport. However, in some niche markets or lower-tier leagues, sportsbooks may only offer spreads or totals. Always check the markets available at your sportsbook for the specific event you want to bet.

How do I know if I am getting a good price on a moneyline?

Compare the moneyline price to the implied probability and to prices at other sportsbooks. If you believe a team has a 60% chance to win but the moneyline implies only 55%, you may have found value. Always shop around for the best price before placing your bet.