What Is a Moneyline Bet? Examples How to Bet the Money Line
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Last Updated: 11 July, 2025
A moneyline bet is a simple wager on which team or player will win a game, with no point spreads involved.
Odds are set for each side, with a minus (–) for favorites and a plus (+) for underdogs.
These odds help calculate potential payouts and show each side’s implied chance of winning.
Understanding these odds and comparing them to other bet types can lead to more informed betting decisions.
Quick overview
A moneyline bet is just a bet on who wins.
The odds tell you how much you can win based on your wager.
Favorites have negative odds (e.g., -180); underdogs have positive odds (e.g., +160).
No concern for the margin of victory — just the outcome.
Available in most sports, including the NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, UFC, and soccer.
Understanding moneyline betting
Moneyline betting is a popular and straightforward method in sports betting that involves selecting the outright winner of a game or event.
Unlike spread betting, point spreads, or over/under betting, there are no handicaps or total points assigned, making it a simple choice between two teams or participants.
How does moneyline work?
A moneyline bet consists of choosing one team or participant to win a particular game or event.
The odds for each side are represented through numerical values, which indicate the potential returns on a successful wager.
In moneyline betting, teams are categorized into favorites and underdogs based on their likelihood of winning the event.
Favorites are the teams or participants expected to win an event and are represented by negative odds.
Underdogs are the teams or participants expected to lose and are represented by positive odds.
The risk and reward ratio in moneyline betting depends on the odds assigned to each team or participant.
Generally, betting on the favorite offers a lower payout but a higher probability of winning, while betting on the underdog offers a higher payout but a lower probability of winning.
American odds format
In the American odds format, the odds for favorites are displayed as negative numbers, while the odds for underdogs are displayed as positive numbers.
The negative odds for favorites indicate the amount of money you would need to wager to win $100, while the positive odds for underdogs indicate the amount of money you could win for a $100 bet.
Example:
In this example, Team A is the favorite, and to win $100, you would need to wager $150.
On the other hand, if you wager $100 on Team B as the underdog, you would win $200 if they were to emerge victorious.
Betting on favorites and underdogs
Betting can appear to be a complicated matter, if you're not familiar, so let's take you through some basics: favorites and underdogs...
Identifying favorites and underdogs
In sports betting, understanding the distinction between favorites and underdogs is essential.
The favorite is the team that has a higher probability of winning, while the underdog is the team that is less likely to win.
These distinctions are made based on various factors, such as past performance, team composition, and public opinion.
When looking at betting odds, you’ll typically see a plus sign (+) or a minus sign (-) associated with each team.
That brings us to the next sub-section.
Plus sign and minus sign
The plus sign (+) and minus sign (-) are used to denote the odds of each team winning.
A minus sign (-) represents the favorite team with negative odds, while a plus sign (+) represents the underdog team with positive odds.
For example, a team with (-180) odds would be the favorite, whereas a team with (+150) odds would be the underdog.
In this case, the negative odds (-180) imply that you would need to bet $180 to potentially win $100, while the positive odds (+150) imply that a $100 bet could potentially win you $150.
By understanding the concepts of favorites and underdogs, plus signs and minus signs, bettors can make informed decisions on which team to place a wager on and set realistic expectations of their potential winnings.
Calculating payouts and implied probability
Now, let's get into some math.
Payouts
Your potential winnings from a moneyline bet depend on whether the odds are positive (an underdog) or negative (a favorite).
If the odds are positive (like +200):
You're betting on an underdog. To find your profit:
Multiply your bet amount by the odds divided by 100.
Example: A $100 bet at +200 odds would win $200 in profit.Total payout = $200 profit + $100 original bet = $300 total
If the odds are negative (like -150):
You're betting on a favorite. To find your profit:
Divide your bet amount by the odds divided by 100.
Example: A $100 bet at -150 odds would win about $66.67 in profit.Total payout = $66.67 profit + $100 original bet = $166.67 total
Most sportsbooks calculate this for you automatically, but it helps to understand how these numbers work, especially when comparing odds across platforms.
Implied Probability
Implied probability tells you how likely the odds suggest a team or player is to win. This helps you decide if a bet offers good value.
For positive odds:
Divide 100 by the odds plus 100.
Example (+200 odds):100 ÷ (200 + 100) = 100 ÷ 300 = 33.3%
This means the team is given about a 33% chance to win.
For negative odds:
Divide the absolute value of the odds by that number plus 100.
Example (-150 odds):150 ÷ (150 + 100) = 150 ÷ 250 = 60%
So, the team is expected to win about 60% of the time.
Many betting tools will do this math for you, but knowing how to read these percentages can help you compare bets and spot better odds.
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Moneyline betting in different sports
Moneyline betting is a popular and straightforward way to bet on various sports.
In this type of wager, bettors choose a team or individual athlete to win a game or match.
The outcome is determined by the team or athlete’s performance, rather than by a point spread or other factors.
Here, we will discuss moneyline betting in different sports such as football, basketball, baseball, soccer, hockey, and UFC.
Football
In football, specifically the NFL, moneyline bets are popular bets on individual games.
Bettors choose a team to win outright, without considering the point spread.
The odds depend on the perceived strength of each team and are adjusted based on factors such as form, injuries, and home-field advantage.
The moneyline bet is straightforward, making it a popular choice for novice bettors.
Basketball
In basketball, including the NBA, moneyline betting involves picking the winner of a single game or match.
The odds are set based on each team’s strength and other relevant factors, such as player injuries and recent performance.
Moneyline betting can be applied to both regular-season and playoff games, as well as individual player performance props.
Baseball
In MLB games, moneyline betting is focused on the outcome of individual games.
Bettors choose one team to win the game, without considering the run line (the baseball equivalent of a point spread).
The odds are set based on the starting pitchers, recent team performance, and other relevant factors.
Moneyline bets are an easy way for both experienced and novice bettors to wager on baseball games.
Soccer
In soccer, moneyline bets are also known as “three-way” bets because they include the possibility of a draw in addition to the two competing teams winning.
Bettors may choose a team to win or opt for a draw, depending on the odds and their analysis of the teams.
Moneyline bets can be placed on individual matches, tournaments, and even player performance props.
Hockey
In hockey, particularly the NHL, moneyline betting is a popular choice for wagering on individual games.
Bettors simply need to pick the team they believe will win the game without considering the goals or point spread.
As in other sports, the odds are set based on team strength, recent performance, injuries, and other relevant factors.
UFC
In UFC and other combat sports, moneyline betting is often applied to individual fights or matches.
Bettors pick a fighter to win, and the odds are set based on each athlete’s perceived skill, previous fight record, and other factors.
Moneyline bets in UFC are particularly popular due to the limited number of potential outcomes, making them a straightforward choice for bettors of varying skill levels.
Betting strategies and tips
Finding a good betting strategy will help you get the most out of moneyline bets, so here are some tips on how to manage it.
Analyzing teams and players
When it comes to moneyline betting, a crucial step is to analyze the teams and players involved.
Research their recent performance, winning and losing streaks, injuries, and other factors affecting their game.
For example, in a football game, consider the team’s offensive and defensive capabilities, player stats, and even the impact of weather conditions.
Comparing these variables can help bettors identify potential winning outcomes.
Managing bankroll
Successful betting requires proper bankroll management.
Bettors should determine a comfortable amount of money to allocate for placing bets, avoiding the temptation to invest too much in a single wager.
Instead, they should spread their funds over several bets to minimize risk, aiming to secure gradual profits.
A common strategy is the unit system, where bettors risk a set percentage of their bankroll on each bet, allowing for better control over potential losses.
Finding value in underdogs
Moneyline betting often involves finding value in underdogs.
These are typically teams or players with higher odds, which can lead to higher payouts if they end up winning.
While underdogs may not be as likely to win as favorites, upsets occur frequently in sports, making them a valuable prospect for bettors.
Assessing underdogs’ potential based on their recent performance and any relevant factors can reveal hidden opportunities for profits.
Remember to maintain a neutral perspective and consider both the risks and rewards when choosing to bet on underdogs.
Moneyline vs point spread betting
Moneyline odds, point spreads, and payouts.
All you need to know.
Comparing odds and payouts
Moneyline bets involve choosing the winner of a game or event without considering a handicap or point spread.
In this type of bet, odds are expressed as positive or negative numbers, e.g., +200 for the underdog and -150 for the favorite.
Positive numbers indicate how much profit you would make from a $100 bet, while negative numbers show how much you would need to bet to win $100.
On the other hand, point spread betting (also called handicap or spread betting) involves wagering on the difference in the final score between two teams.
Here, the bookmaker assigns a handicap to the teams, with one team receiving an advantage in points, while the other is given a disadvantage.
For example, Team A might have -3.5 points, while Team B has +3.5 points.
If you bet on Team A, they need to win by a margin of more than 3.5 points for you to win the bet.
Conversely, if you bet on Team B, they can lose by up to 3.5 points or win the game, and you would still win the bet.
Choosing the right bet
When deciding between moneyline and point spread bets, consider the following factors:
Payout: Moneyline bets usually offer higher payouts for underdogs and lower payouts for favorites. Point spread bets may have a more consistent potential payout, depending on the odds.
Matchup: If you believe the underdog could win the game outright or that the favorite can overcome a significant point spread, moneyline bets might be more attractive. Conversely, point spread betting is ideal if you expect a close game or believe that the underdog will lose, but cover the point spread.
Risk tolerance: Moneyline bets on underdogs can provide greater potential for profits but also entail higher risks. Point spread bets can be seen as a more conservative approach, as they account for the teams’ relative strengths.
Sport and playing style: Moneyline bets are more popular in low-scoring sports like the MLB or NHL, while point spread bets are common in higher-scoring sports like the NFL and NBA. The scoring tendencies of the teams involved should also be considered when choosing your bet.
By understanding the differences, odds, and payouts between moneyline and point spread betting, you can make informed decisions about which type of bet is better suited for your strategy and preferences.
Other betting types and terminology
There are many types of bets and plenty of terminology to navigate.
Here are the most common types explained.
Fractional odds
Fractional odds are a traditional method of representing odds, mainly used in the UK and Ireland.
They are expressed as a fraction, such as 5/1 or 10/3.
When reading fractional odds, the numerator (top number) indicates potential profit, while the denominator (bottom number) represents the amount you need to wager to gain that profit.
For example, if you bet $10 on a team with 5/1 odds, you could win $50 ($10 x 5) plus your original stake of $10, totaling $60.
Draw
In some sports, such as soccer, games can end in a tie or draw.
When this occurs, bettors who wagered on a draw outcome will win their bets.
However, sports like the NFL, where draws are relatively rare, usually offer bets on the outcome of games without a draw option.
For UFC events, a draw could mean a match ending in a split decision or majority draw, although these results are infrequent.
Vigorish
Vigorish, also known as the “vig” or the “juice,” is the commission that a bookmaker charges for taking a bet.
In essence, it’s how sports betting sites make their profit.
When looking at betting odds, the vigorish can be observed in the difference between the risk and potential payout.
For instance, a bettor might need to risk $110 to win $100 on the Yankees to win the Super Bowl.
The extra $10 represents the vigorish.
Popular sports betting events
Using moneyline in top sporting events should also be considered, alongside their respective sports.
Super Bowl
The Super Bowl is one of the most popular events in sports betting, as it decides the champion of the National Football League (NFL) each year.
Bettors can place various types of bets, including moneyline wagers predicting the winner.
Super Bowl moneyline bets typically see a huge surge in activity, owing to the excitement and attention the event garners.
World Series
The World Series is the championship series of Major League Baseball (MLB) and another popular event for sports betting enthusiasts.
During the World Series, fans place moneyline bets on individual games or the overall series outcome to predict the winning team.
The best-of-seven format provides multiple opportunities for bettors to place wagers and engage in the excitement of the fall classic.
NBA Finals
The NBA Finals determine the champion of the National Basketball Association (NBA) and are another popular sports betting event.
Fans place moneyline bets on individual games, as well as the series outcome, to predict the winning team.
The NBA Finals’ best-of-seven format allows for numerous betting opportunities and consistently draws interest from basketball fans and bettors alike.
College Football Championship
The College Football Championship, organized by the College Football Playoff (CFP) system, decides the winner of NCAA Division I FBS football.
This event typically attracts significant attention from both fans and bettors, with moneyline wagers placed on the championship game.
Given the high stakes and strong rivalries between competitor schools, the College Football Championship offers an exciting landscape for sports betting enthusiasts.
Sportsbook odds and considerations
When exploring the world of sports betting, understanding sportsbook odds and making well-informed decisions is essential.
This section will provide insights into choosing a reputable sportsbook and the importance of understanding line movements.
Choosing a reputable sportsbook
Picking the right sportsbook isn’t just about where to place your bets; it can impact everything from your payouts to how easily you can access your money.
A trusted, well-run platform gives you better odds, better service, and peace of mind.
Here’s what to look for when evaluating a sportsbook:
Key factors to consider
Reputation: Choose a sportsbook with a strong track record, proper licensing, and positive feedback from long-time users.
Fair Odds: Competitive odds mean better value on every bet. Even small differences can impact your long-term results.
Betting Variety: A good sportsbook should cover a wide range of sports, leagues, and bet types, not just the basics.
Ease of Use: Look for a clean, intuitive website or app. Navigation should be simple, and live betting should be smooth and responsive.
Customer Support: Responsive, helpful support (ideally 24/7) makes a big difference if you ever run into an issue with a bet or payout.
Fast, Secure Payments: Deposits should be instant, and withdrawals should be reliable and reasonably fast. Multiple payment options are a plus.
Understanding line movements
Line movements in sportsbook odds refer to the changes in betting odds as wagers are placed and sportsbooks adjust the odds to manage risk.
Tracking line movements can serve as a useful tool for bettors to identify advantageous betting opportunities or to gauge the overall betting sentiment behind a particular game.
There are two primary reasons for line movements:
Betting action: As more bets are placed on one side, sportsbooks may adjust the odds to balance the action, attracting more wagers on the other side. This helps them to minimize their risk.
Injury reports or breaking news: Unexpected news, such as injuries to key players or other relevant updates, can impact the odds. Sportsbooks quickly update the odds to account for these developments.
To effectively make use of line movements, bettors should pay close attention to both pre-game and in-game line movements.
By monitoring these changes, bettors can potentially take advantage of discrepancies in the odds and identify valuable betting opportunities.
This approach requires vigilance, as line movements can occur rapidly.
Remember, understanding sportsbook odds and the factors affecting them is vital for successful betting.
Choose a reputable sportsbook and utilize line movement information to make well-informed decisions that increase your chances of winning.
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Contributors
Josh Miller
Author
Josh Miller, Sporting Post’s Sports & Casino Editor, brings over five years of experience in feature writing, blogging, and SEO.
With a strong background in football coverage and sports betting, his work has been featured in VAVEL.
Josh also writes extensively about online casinos, providing expert insights into games, bonuses, and gambling trends.
His engaging and informative content makes him a reliable resource for Sporting Post readers.
Bradley Gibbs
Reviewed By
With over 12 years of experience, Bradley Gibbs is a seasoned sports betting writer and analyst specializing in uncovering value bets across football, horse racing, tennis, and golf.
His extensive coverage of these sports has been featured on numerous websites and in The Racing & Football Outlook, a renowned UK betting publication.
Bradley's expertise lies in identifying betting edges and delivering insightful, data-driven content for informed wagering.