When most fans think of NFL betting, they imagine straightforward wagers such as moneylines, point spreads, and totals. These markets remain the backbone of football betting, but the rise of digital sportsbooks has introduced countless niche betting opportunities that go far beyond the traditional. These lesser-known NFL bets not only enhance the game-day experience but also allow bettors to get creative with predictions.
First Touchdown Scorer by Position
Most bettors are familiar with wagering on the first player to score a touchdown in a game. However, many sportsbooks also offer a unique twist: betting on which position will score first. Instead of backing a specific player, you can wager on whether a wide receiver, running back, quarterback, or even a defensive unit finds the end zone first. This market levels the playing field, especially when certain playersâ odds are too short, and it can add intrigue to games where unexpected scorers emerge.
Exact Margin of Victory
Point spreads cover whether a team wins by more or fewer points than predicted, but the exact margin of victory bet takes things up a notch. Here, bettors attempt to predict the precise number of points by which a team will win. For instance, wagering that a team will win by exactly seven points offers bigger payouts than simply backing them to cover a spread. While difficult to nail, this type of wager appeals to bettors looking for higher-risk, higher-reward opportunities tied directly to game outcomes.
Player Performance Combos
NFL betting has expanded to include more player-focused props than ever before. A unique offshoot is player performance combos, which link two or more stats into one bet. Examples include wagering on whether a quarterback will throw for 250+ yards and rush for at least one touchdown, or whether a receiver will record both 100+ receiving yards and two scores. These wagers test a bettorâs knowledge of player versatility and can be especially profitable when matching trends with favourable defensive matchups.
Offensive vs. Defensive Scoring Specials
One of the quirkiest NFL betting markets revolves around comparing which unit will score first: the offence or the defence. Imagine placing a bet on whether a kickoff return or a defensive pick-six will put points on the board before an offensive drive does. While rarer than offensive scores, these bets add extra excitement to high-stakes games where defences often rise to the occasion. Importantly, licensed sports betting sites will offer this type of bet, ensuring itâs available in regulated and safe markets.
First Offensive Play of the Game
Another niche bet type lets fans wager on what the first offensive play of the game will be. Options typically include a run, a pass, or sometimes a trick play like a reverse. Itâs a market that looks simple on the surface but often rewards bettors who have researched team tendencies. For example, teams with strong rushing games may be more likely to hand the ball off on their opening snap. This small detail adds a fun new layer to the very beginning of a matchup.
Conclusion
The NFL betting landscape has grown far beyond moneylines and spreads, offering bettors an array of unique ways to engage with the game. From guessing the first touchdown scorerâs position to predicting the first offensive player, these lesser-known bets showcase just how creative sportsbooks have become.
