Understanding Pick'Em Bets: A Guide to Even-Odds Sports Betting

Understanding Pick'Em Bets: A Guide to Even-Odds Sports Betting

By Michael Davidson

December 31, 2024 at 09:26 AM

A pick'em in sports betting occurs when two teams are considered evenly matched, resulting in identical or very similar odds for both sides. These bets typically feature moneyline odds around -110 for each team, meaning you'd need to bet $110 to win $100 regardless of which team you choose.

For example:

  • Cleveland Browns (-110) vs. Baltimore Ravens (-110)
  • Cincinnati Bengals (-115) vs. New England Patriots (-105)

Even when odds aren't exactly equal, a matchup may still be considered a pick'em if the difference is minimal.

Key factors to consider when betting pick'ems:

  • Home field advantage
  • Team power ratings
  • Recent form and head-to-head history
  • Key player availability
  • Weather conditions (if applicable)

Orange-helmeted player in sporting gear

Orange-helmeted player in sporting gear

With pick'em spreads, sportsbooks often don't offer point spreads since the teams are so evenly matched. If spreads are available, they're typically minimal (like 0.5 points).

Pick'ems are most common in:

  • NBA basketball
  • NFL football
  • College sports
  • Close playoff matchups

While pick'ems can be challenging bets, they aren't necessarily ones to avoid. Success comes down to thorough research and identifying small advantages that could tip the scales in one team's favor.

FAQs:

  • Pick'ems use moneyline odds but feature equal or near-equal odds for both teams
  • Regular moneylines typically show clear favorites (-) and underdogs (+)
  • Popular in basketball and football, especially during important games
  • Research and analysis are crucial for making informed pick'em bets

Related Articles

Previous Articles