The NFL Preseason is rapidly approaching, with the NFL Hall of Fame Game between the Las Vegas Raiders and Jacksonville Jaguars set for Thursday, August 4. With that in mind, it's time to recalibrate with NFL preseason betting strategies.
Unlike the teams involved, for gamblers, the goal in betting on NFL preseason games is to get paid. A loss counts for gamblers in the preseason, which means that gamblers must uncover any clues and information on game plans, playing time, and motivational situations that may provide an edge.
The preseason schedule attracts significant interest from fans and bettors alike. Training camp and preseason are preparation for the regular season, and while the games are mostly meaningless and the outcomes don’t count in the standings, there is still much interest and more to consider.
NFL preseason gamblers and handicappers are often more serious and savvier. They will research multiple sources for clues and information from teams, coaches, and media while evaluating the lines
First, betting on NFL preseason games is much different than betting during the regular season. There is very little game planning, and winning is not the primary goal for the coaches and teams. In fact, for many coaches, it just doesn’t matter much at all. The emphasis is on execution and not as much on the outcome. And for contending teams, they want to get out of the game injury free.
At the onset, you should read as much information as possible from the team and local websites, independent writers, and coaches. Some clues are available about how long starters will play, roster usage, and philosophies for a team or particular preseason game. Bigger line moves occur more often in preseason games, as sharp bettors take a position and oddsmakers make adjustments
Line moves are often a great tell for preseason betting. A team can open as an underdog and close as a solid favorite on game day. Thus, following the line moves can tell you where some of the sharp action may be in selected preseason games.
While the betting public isn’t always interested in NFL preseason, the smart money is, so be careful about fading line moves. Bookmakers say professional bettors often account for 50-70% of the money bet in the preseason.
Preseason Handicapping Checklist
Now, here are some items to research on your preseason play sheet.
Embrace Live Betting — Many Wise Guys have made a killing in the preseason by making in-game wagers. With all the lineup changes, this is the land of opportunity in exhibition games. Sharps make more money in the preseason with live betting than by any other method.
Quarterback Playing Time — Locate a handy QB depth chart list, and recognize which teams have more rookies and less experienced QBs playing, especially later in the contest. A veteran backup carries more potential in the preseason when going against backup players of an opposing defense.
Motivation — Although most NFL teams don’t care as much about these preseason games, there are some spots where the incentive is slightly greater. An example is when a team is 0-1 and playing at home after losing their first game and playing a team that is 1-0. Or a club is playing for a new coach trying to establish his culture.
Coaching Trends — Past preseason records provide clues surrounding coaches and their priorities and can identify which coaches take preseason more seriously.
Late week information — This is as important as the rest of the factors combined. Following the coach’s quotes on player rotations, playing time, injuries, and updates from camp can provide bettors with information and insight they can use and decipher when wagering while trying to stay ahead of potential line moves. Late information relates to the previously mentioned live betting opportunities.
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