Should You Bet on Favorites or Underdogs in Sports?

Introduction

One of the most debated strategies in sports betting is whether to bet on favorites or underdogs. Both options have distinct advantages and risks, and the right approach depends on factors such as odds, value, and bankroll strategy.

Favorites are teams or athletes expected to win, with lower payouts but higher probabilities of success. Underdogs, on the other hand, are less likely to win but offer significantly higher returns. While casual bettors often gravitate toward favorites, sharp bettors understand when and why betting on underdogs can be more profitable in the long run.

This article explores the advantages and drawbacks of both betting approaches, helping you make smarter wagering decisions on platforms like bet105.

Betting on Favorites: Pros and Cons

Why Bettors Choose Favorites

Favorites are typically the stronger team or player in a matchup. Sportsbooks assign lower odds to favorites because they are statistically more likely to win. Many recreational bettors prefer favorites because they feel “safer” and win more frequently.

• Higher win probability: Favorites win more often, providing a steady return for conservative bettors.
• Lower variance: Betting on favorites reduces the impact of losing streaks, making it easier to manage a bankroll.
• Easier analysis: It’s often simpler to analyze favorites since they have more consistent performance records.

Downsides of Betting on Favorites

While favorites win more often, their odds are typically lower, meaning smaller payouts. Over time, betting too heavily on favorites can result in losses, especially if a few high-stake bets fail.

• Lower payouts: Even if you win frequently, low odds can make it difficult to achieve long-term profitability.
• Overvalued lines: Public betting trends often inflate the odds on favorites, reducing their value.
• Upset risk: Even the strongest teams and athletes lose occasionally, and upsets can be costly when betting on heavy favorites.

Betting on Underdogs: Pros and Cons

Why Sharp Bettors Bet on Underdogs

Underdogs tend to have inflated odds because most of the betting public wagers on favorites. Sharp bettors recognize value opportunities when an underdog is undervalued by the market.

• Higher payouts: Since underdogs have longer odds, a single win can cover multiple losses.
• Value betting opportunities: Sportsbooks sometimes misprice underdogs, creating chances for profitable bets.
• Public bias: Many bettors overestimate favorites, leading to better odds for underdogs.

Downsides of Betting on Underdogs

Betting on underdogs carries higher risk, as they win less frequently. Without proper bankroll management, losing streaks can be devastating.

• Lower win probability: Since underdogs are expected to lose, you need a disciplined approach to remain profitable.
• High variance: Betting on underdogs requires patience, as losses can accumulate before a big win balances the books.
• Requires deeper analysis: Finding valuable underdog bets takes more research, as you must identify mispriced lines.

When to Bet on Favorites vs. Underdogs

Look for Value, Not Just Probabilities

The key to successful sports betting isn’t just picking winners—it’s identifying bets where the odds offer value. Whether you’re betting on a favorite or an underdog, the most important factor is whether the bet has a positive expected value (EV).

A favorite with odds that are too short (e.g., -300 when it should be -200) may not be worth betting on. Conversely, an underdog with odds of +250 when it should be +180 represents value, even if the chance of winning is lower.

Consider the Sport and Betting Market

Different sports have varying levels of unpredictability. In low-scoring sports like soccer and hockey, underdogs win more often due to the close nature of games. In contrast, high-scoring sports like basketball and football tend to favor favorites because talent differences have a greater impact.

• NBA & NFL: Favorites cover the spread more often but tend to be overvalued by the public.
• MLB & NHL: Underdogs win more frequently than in other sports, creating better betting value.
• Soccer: Draws can provide value in underdog betting, especially in closely matched games.

Use Line Movement to Your Advantage

Line movement can indicate where sharp money is going. If an underdog’s odds shorten (e.g., moving from +200 to +170), it suggests professional bettors see value in that team. Similarly, if a favorite’s odds drift, it may indicate public overbetting rather than true market value.

Why bet105 is the Best Place for Betting on Favorites and Underdogs

bet105 offers the sharpest odds and lowest margins, ensuring bettors get the best value on both favorites and underdogs. Unlike traditional sportsbooks, bet105 provides:

• Reduced juice on all major sports, increasing profitability for value bettors.
• Fast crypto payouts so you can access winnings instantly.
• No betting limits on sharp players, allowing professionals to bet freely.

Conclusion

Betting on favorites and underdogs each has its own risks and rewards. While favorites win more frequently, their odds often lack value. Underdogs, though riskier, can provide high returns when the odds are mispriced. The most successful sports bettors focus on finding value rather than blindly betting on one side.

With bet105, you can maximize your betting strategy with the best odds and lowest fees. Sign up today and start making smarter bets.

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