A money line bet is the simplest form of sports betting. It’s a wager on which team or competitor will win a particular event outright, without considering point spreads or other factors. If your chosen team wins, you win the bet. If they lose, you lose your wager. This straightforward nature makes money line bets popular among both novice and experienced bettors.
Money line bets are available for a variety of sports and events.
Understanding Money Line Odds
Money line odds indicate the payout for a winning bet and also reflect the perceived likelihood of each outcome. They are represented by positive (+) or negative (-) numbers next to the team or competitor’s name.
Negative (-) Odds: A negative number indicates the favorite. This number represents how much you need to wager to win $100. For example, a money line of -200 means you need to bet $200 to win $100 (plus your original $200 back, for a total of $300).
Positive (+) Odds: A positive number indicates the underdog. This number represents how much you would win for every $100 wagered. For example, a money line of +150 means a $100 bet would win you $150 (plus your original $100 back, for a total of $250).
A betting slip showcasing how money line odds are displayed.
How to Calculate Money Line Payouts
Calculating your potential payout on a money line bet is straightforward:
Negative (-) Odds: Divide 100 by the absolute value of the odds and multiply by your bet amount. For example, a $50 bet on -250 odds would pay out: (100 / 250) * $50 = $20 (plus your original $50 stake).
Positive (+) Odds: Multiply the odds by your bet amount and divide by 100. For example, a $50 bet on +150 odds would pay out: (150 * $50) / 100 = $75 (plus your original $50 stake).
Money Line vs. Point Spread Betting
While money line bets focus solely on who wins, point spread bets involve a handicap to even the playing field. The favorite must win by more than the spread, while the underdog can lose by less than the spread or win outright.
A comparison chart highlighting the differences between money line and point spread bets.
Advantages of Money Line Bets
- Simplicity: Easy to understand and wager on.
- Clear Outcome: Only two possible outcomes (win or lose, excluding ties).
- Potential for Higher Payouts: Underdogs offer larger potential returns.
The Bottom Line
Money line bets are a fundamental aspect of sports betting, providing a simple and direct way to wager on the outcome of an event. Understanding how money line odds work and how to calculate potential payouts is crucial for making informed betting decisions. Remember to gamble responsibly and within your means. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, resources are available to help. Contact the National Council on Problem Gambling at 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537).
