NFL Game Props: The Smart Way to Boost Your Betting Odds
You’ve probably heard the saying, “Win on Saturday, give it all back on Sunday!” It’s a common sentiment among sports bettors, especially those who find betting on college football a bit easier than betting on the NFL. NFL games can be tricky, and even when you feel confident about your picks, things often don’t go as planned. For example, you might be sure about the outcome of a couple of games, but the moment you put together a parlay, things get complicated.
Luckily, there’s a better way to approach NFL betting: NFL Game Props. These types of bets give you more specific and, often, more predictable ways to wager. Instead of betting on the overall outcome of a game, you can focus on individual aspects like who scores first or how many field goals will be made. This guide will walk you through some of the most popular NFL prop bets and how they can help you improve your strategy—and your winnings.
1. Time of First Score
This is a fun and straightforward bet. You’re wagering on whether there will be a score within a certain amount of time in the first half. For example, will there be a score in the first 2 minutes? Or maybe in the first 5 minutes? It’s a simple yes or no bet that can pay off quickly. By looking at how teams typically start games—whether they come out aggressive or tend to feel things out—you can make smarter bets.
2. First Score Type: Touchdown, Field Goal, or Safety?
Here, you’re betting on how the game’s first points will be scored. Will it be a touchdown, a field goal, or maybe even a rare safety? Each option comes with different odds. If you know a team’s offense is a bit shaky or their defense is strong, betting on a field goal to come first might be a smart move.
3. Team to Score Three Unanswered Times
In this prop, you’re betting on whether one team will score three times in a row without the other team scoring. It could be a mix of touchdowns and field goals, but extra points and 2-point conversions don’t count. If you’re rooting for a team known for its powerful offense, this bet can keep things exciting even if you’re not sure about betting the spread.
4. Score in the Last 2 Minutes of the First Half
The last two minutes of the first half can often be chaotic, especially when teams push hard to get on the scoreboard before halftime. This bet is simply predicting whether there will be a score in that last two-minute window. It’s a yes or no bet that adds some drama to the end of the half, especially in close or high-stakes games.
5. Defensive or Special Teams Touchdown
This one is perfect if you’re betting on a game with a strong defense or standout special teams. You’re predicting whether there will be a defensive or special teams touchdown during the game. If you know one team is good at forcing turnovers, this bet can offer great value.
6. Longest Touchdown
Here, you’re betting on how long the longest touchdown of the game will be. For example, will the longest touchdown be over 40 yards? To make an informed decision, think about the quarterbacks’ arm strength, the receivers’ speed, and the opposing defense’s ability to prevent big plays.
7. Longest Field Goal
Like the longest touchdown, this bet focuses on the length of the longest field goal made during the game. If you know the teams’ kickers are known for their range, betting on a long field goal can be a good option.
8. Total Number of Touchdowns in the Game
This bet is pretty simple: you’re betting on the total number of touchdowns scored by both teams. You might see an over/under set at 4.5 or 5.5 touchdowns. If you expect a high-scoring game, betting the over might be the way to go.
9. Shortest Made Field Goal
Instead of focusing on long field goals, this prop bet is all about the shortest one. If you know that one or both teams tend to get stuck in the red zone and settle for short field goals, this can be a smart bet.
10. Total Field Goals Made by Both Teams
This bet focuses on how many field goals will be made by both teams combined. If you’re betting on teams that struggle to finish drives with touchdowns, this bet offers a great alternative to betting the total score.
11. Total Punts by Both Teams
This is a fun prop bet for those who enjoy defensive battles. You’re betting on the total number of punts during the game. If you expect the defenses to dominate and force a lot of fourth downs, this bet could pay off.
12. Total Sacks by Both Teams
Another great bet for defensive fans! You’re betting on the total number of sacks made by both teams. If you know that both defenses have strong pass rushes and the offensive lines are weak, betting on a high number of sacks is a smart play.
13. Double Result
This prop bet has you predicting the outcome of both the first and second half. For example, you could bet on one team to lead at halftime but the other team to win the game. It’s a bit more challenging, but if you anticipate momentum shifts, it offers some pretty nice odds.
14. Total Points Scored
This bet lets you predict the total points scored by both teams. You might see options like 21-30 points, 31-40 points, etc. Knowing each team’s offense and defense can help you make a more accurate prediction.
15. Winning Margin
In this bet, you predict the margin by which a team will win. For example, you might bet that the Packers will win by 7-12 points. It’s a more specific type of bet, but it can lead to bigger payouts if you get it right.
16. First Score Type: How Will the Game Start?
This prop bet is about how the first points will go up on the board. Will it be a rushing touchdown, passing touchdown, field goal, or even a safety? It’s a fun way to bet if you’re looking for a quick win early in the game.
17. Adjusted Lines: Alternative Point Spreads
Adjusted lines let you bet on a different point spread than what’s offered by the oddsmakers. For example, instead of betting on a team at -3, you might take them at -5.5 for better odds. It’s a good option if you think the spread is too conservative or too generous.
Conclusion
NFL game props open up a whole new world of betting options beyond just the final outcome. By focusing on specific parts of the game—whether it’s the number of punts, the length of the longest touchdown, or the total number of field goals—you can make more informed decisions based on your knowledge of the teams and players. Plus, prop bets add an extra layer of excitement to the game, giving you something to cheer for beyond just the score.
So next time you’re placing bets on an NFL game, mix in a few props. It could be the key to boosting your winning odds and making the most of your NFL betting experience.
FAQs
What are NFL game props?
NFL game props are bets on specific events or outcomes within a game, like who scores first or how many field goals will be made.
Are prop bets easier to win than regular bets?
Prop bets can feel easier because they focus on specific aspects of the game, but they still require research and understanding of the teams and players.
Which NFL prop bets are most popular?
Popular prop bets include first team to score, total points scored, and winning margin.
Can I combine prop bets into parlays?
Yes, many sportsbooks allow you to combine prop bets into parlays, but keep in mind this increases the risk, though it also offers a bigger payout.
How do I research for NFL prop bets?
Look at team and player stats, consider injuries, and understand game conditions to make more informed prop bets.
What’s the advantage of betting on defensive props?
Defensive props, like total sacks or defensive touchdowns, can offer good value if you’re familiar with the teams’ defensive strengths and matchups.