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NFL parlay betting has become a thrilling way for fans and bettors alike to increase their potential payouts while making each game day even more exciting. Whether you’re a seasoned bettor or new to NFL parlays, understanding how to make smart, informed picks can increase your chances of a big payout.
In this blog, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about NFL parlays—from what parlay bets are, to how to build them, to offering up today’s best NFL parlay picks and predictions. By the time you’re done reading, you’ll be well-prepared to craft a winning parlay and enjoy the action on the field.
Types Of NFL Parlays
While most bettors are familiar with the standard parlay, there are different types of parlays that can offer various betting opportunities. Knowing the differences can help you craft a parlay that fits your strategy.
1. Moneyline Parlays
A moneyline parlay simply involves picking the winner of each game, with no point spread involved. This is straightforward, as you only need to choose which teams will win. However, moneyline parlays often have smaller payouts unless you pick a combination of underdogs.
2. Point Spread Parlays
This is the most common type of NFL parlay. You bet on teams to cover the point spread. For example, if the Buffalo Bills are -6.5 favorites, they need to win by at least 7 points for that leg to hit. Point spread parlays can offer better payouts compared to moneyline parlays.
3. Over/Under Parlays
In these parlays, you’re betting on the total points scored in a game. The sportsbook sets a points total, and you can bet whether the actual score will go over or under that number. For instance, in a Kansas City Chiefs vs. New York Jets game, the over/under might be set at 47.5. If you think both teams will combine to score more than 47.5 points, you bet the over.
4. Same-Game Parlays
Same-game parlays (SGPs) are growing in popularity. These allow you to combine multiple bets from a single game into a parlay. For example, you could bet on a specific team to win, a player to score a touchdown, and the game’s total points going over a certain threshold, all in one parlay. The advantage of same-game parlays is the ability to focus on a single game where you may feel more confident in your predictions.
Betting platforms like DGbet can provide you with competitive odds to make these bets more rewarding.
Alright, you’ve got the types down; now let’s talk about strategies to make these parlays work in your favor.
Strategies For Building A Winning NFL Parlay
Given the high risk of parlay betting, it’s essential to approach them with a sound strategy. Here are some tips that can help increase your chances of winning.
1. Limit the number of legs
While it might be tempting to throw together a 10-leg parlay for a huge potential payout, it’s better to limit your parlay to 3-5 legs. The more legs you add, the harder it is to win. Sticking to fewer legs increases your chances of success while still offering an attractive payout.
2. Do your research
Every successful parlay starts with research. Before making any picks, make sure to:
- Check injury reports: Injuries to key players, especially quarterbacks or star defensive players, can significantly affect the outcome of a game.
- Analyze matchups: Teams match up differently against each other. For example, a team with a strong run defense may shut down a run-heavy offense, creating a betting edge.
- Study recent form: Teams that are on a hot streak can carry momentum into the next game, while teams struggling with consistency may be too risky to bet on.
3. Avoid too many risky bets
When building your parlay, you don’t need to bet on the most volatile matchups. While upsets can lead to bigger payouts, consider balancing riskier bets with safer ones. For example, you might pick a few favorites and one underdog that you feel has a strong chance of pulling off an upset.
4. Track line movement
Lines move throughout the week based on public betting, injuries, and other factors. Tracking these movements can give you insights into where the sharp money is going. For example, if a team opens as a -3 favorite but the line moves to -5 as the week progresses, sharp bettors may be backing that team heavily.
5. Consider hedging your parlay
If your parlay is doing well and only one leg remains, you can hedge your bet by placing a wager on the opposing team or the opposite outcome of your final leg. While this reduces your potential payout, it can also guarantee you some profit. For example, if three of your four legs have already hit, and you’re nervous about the final game, you can place a smaller bet on the other team to win or cover.
Let’s dive into the factors that can make or break your picks.
Key Factors For Making NFL Parlay Picks
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Now that you understand the basics and strategy behind building parlays, let’s break down the key factors to consider when making today’s NFL parlay picks.
1. Team news and injuries
Injuries are often the most critical factor in any NFL game. If a team is missing its starting quarterback or a key defensive player, the game dynamics can shift dramatically. For example, if the Buffalo Bills are without Josh Allen, their entire offensive game plan will be affected.
- Injury reports: Always check the official injury reports leading up to game day.
- Impact players: Some players are more critical to a team’s success than others. A star quarterback being out is far more impactful than a third-string wide receiver.
2. Recent performance and trends
NFL teams tend to go through streaks of form, both good and bad. A team that has won three games in a row is likely playing with confidence, while a team on a losing streak may be struggling with consistency or internal issues.
- Hot teams: Focus on teams that are playing well recently, particularly those on winning streaks or with dominant performances in recent weeks.
- Cold teams: Be cautious of teams that are struggling to find their rhythm, especially if they’re facing tough opponents.
3. Matchups and style of play
The NFL is often about matchups. For example, a team that excels at running the ball may have a huge advantage against a defense that struggles to stop the run. Similarly, a strong passing team could exploit a weak secondary.
- Offense vs. defense: Analyze how teams’ strengths and weaknesses match up. A team with a strong rushing attack facing a poor run defense could offer a favorable betting opportunity.
- Turnover-prone teams: Teams that frequently turn the ball over, particularly at the quarterback position, are riskier bets, as turnovers can swing a game.
4. Weather conditions
Don’t forget to check the weather, especially for games played in outdoor stadiums. Weather can significantly impact a game, particularly the passing game. Rain, snow, and high winds can lead to more turnovers and a reliance on the running game.
- Cold weather: Teams that play in warmer climates may struggle in cold, snowy conditions.
- Wind: High winds can affect the passing game, making it more difficult for quarterbacks to throw deep passes.
Conclusion
NFL parlay betting adds extra excitement to game day with the chance for big payouts. By sticking to smart strategies—like limiting the number of legs, researching matchups, and tracking key factors such as injuries and weather—you can boost your chances of success. While parlays come with higher risk, the thrill and potential rewards make them worth the gamble. Stay informed, bet wisely, and enjoy the action with today’s best parlay bets in the NFL!
