Are you a passionate NFL fan who’s ready to take your love for American football to the next level? Whether you’re cheering for the Kansas City Chiefs, Dallas Cowboys, or your hometown heroes, betting on the NFL adds another layer of excitement to each game. With over 120 betting markets available at top bookmakers, you can bet on everything from the Super Bowl champion to who scores the first touchdown, and even the result of the very first drive.
NFL betting is not only fun—it also rewards knowledge, timing, and strategic insight. For fans who follow the season closely, it’s a great way to turn passion into potential profit. But before diving into the action, it’s essential to understand how NFL betting works and what types of bets are available.
In this complete guide, we’ll break down all major NFL outright bets, game-by-game markets, player props, and team stats betting options—and explain how to interpret them. Whether you’re a casual bettor or aiming for long-term success, this article will help you master the wide world of NFL betting.
Let’s get started.
Overview of NFL Betting
The National Football League (NFL) is the most popular American football league in the world, attracting millions of fans and bettors every season. The league features 32 teams divided into two conferences: the American Football Conference (AFC) and the National Football Conference (NFC). Each conference has four divisions, and the regular season typically runs from September through early January, followed by the NFL Playoffs, culminating in the Super Bowl in February.
The NFL’s structured schedule and statistics-heavy nature make it ideal for betting. Fans can wager on outcomes ranging from outright championship winners to individual player performances and in-play events like the next touchdown scorer or turnover.
If you're new to how the NFL works—its schedule, playoff format, or key statistics—make sure to check out our complete beginner's guide here:
Complete American Football Betting Guide
That page will help you get familiar with the rules of the game, scoring system, and how betting odds are typically calculated for NFL matchups.
Now, let’s explore the wide range of betting markets available throughout the NFL season, starting with Outright Bets.
NFL Outright Betting Markets
Outright betting in the NFL allows you to place wagers on long-term outcomes—such as which team will win the Super Bowl, who will be named MVP, or how many games a team will win during the regular season. These bets are typically placed before the season begins, but many sportsbooks offer them year-round with updated odds as the season progresses.
Here’s a breakdown of the most popular NFL outright betting markets:
1. Super Bowl Winner
Bet on the team that will win the Super Bowl at the end of the season. This is the most popular outright bet and is available well before the season starts. Odds are adjusted weekly based on team performance and injuries.
2. AFC/NFC Conference Winner
Wager on which team will win either the AFC or NFC and advance to the Super Bowl. This market typically offers better odds than simply betting on the Super Bowl favorite.
3. Division Winner
Bet on which team will finish at the top of their division (e.g., AFC West, NFC East). This market is often easier to analyze because it involves only four teams per division.
4. Division – Dual Forecast / Straight Forecast
Predict which two teams will finish first and second in a specific division, in the correct order (Straight Forecast) or in either order (Dual Forecast). These bets offer higher payouts due to difficulty.
5. Regular Season Most Wins
Bet on the team that will finish the regular season with the highest number of wins across the entire NFL. Tiebreakers may apply, and sportsbooks outline rules for these cases.
6. Regular Season Fewest Wins
Opposite of the above—wager on the team that will have the worst record. Often attractive for those following rebuilding teams or sides with a tough schedule.
7. To Reach the Playoffs – Yes/No
Choose whether a specific team will make the playoffs or not. This is a binary (yes/no) market and is often used in combination with other team props.
8. Regular Season MVP
Bet on which player will be voted Most Valuable Player for the regular season. Quarterbacks dominate this market historically, but longshots like top wide receivers or running backs can offer big value.
9. Postseason MVP (Super Bowl MVP)
This market focuses on who will be named Super Bowl MVP—typically awarded to the standout performer in the championship game. Quarterbacks have won it more than half the time.
10. Coach of the Year
Place a bet on the coach who will be voted best in the league. Often goes to coaches of teams who exceed expectations—not necessarily the top seed.
11. Offensive Player of the Year
Awarded to the league’s top offensive performer—often non-QBs like running backs or wide receivers. Ideal for bettors seeking value beyond MVP.
12. Defensive Player of the Year
Bet on the top-performing defensive player. Edge rushers, linebackers, and shutdown cornerbacks are typically the favorites in this category.
13. Player A’s Season Passing Yards – Over/Under
Bookmakers set a yardage total for a quarterback (e.g., 4,250 yards). Bettors choose Over or Under based on performance expectations and injury risk.
14. Player A’s Season Receiving Yards – Over/Under
Similar to above, but for wide receivers or tight ends. Ideal for fantasy football players who follow receiver trends and matchups.
15. Player A’s Season Receiving Touchdowns – Over/Under
A market focused on how many TDs a specific player will catch during the season. Be mindful of red zone usage and offensive schemes.
16. Player A’s Season Rushing Touchdowns – Over/Under
Bet on how many rushing TDs a player (usually a running back) will score. Consider offensive line strength and goalline opportunities.
17. Each Team’s Regular Season Wins – Over/Under
This popular bet involves predicting how many games each team will win during the regular season. Sportsbooks provide a projected win total and you choose Over or Under.
18. Specific Stats Leader Betting
Bet on which player will lead the league in passing yards, rushing yards, touchdowns, sacks, interceptions, etc. These long-term prop bets can offer high returns with the right research.
NFL Match Betting Markets
While outright bets focus on the long-term outcomes of a season, match betting markets allow fans to engage with individual games on a weekly basis. These bets provide more immediate results and are especially popular during the regular season, playoffs, and Super Bowl. From simple win/loss bets to highly detailed player and team performance props, sportsbooks offer an overwhelming variety of options—more than 100 markets per game in some cases.
Let’s explore the main categories and types of NFL match betting available.
Main Markets
19. Money Line
The simplest and most popular NFL bet. You’re wagering on which team will win the game outright, regardless of the point spread. Underdogs will have higher payout odds, while favorites offer lower returns.
20. Spread
Also known as the point spread, this evens out the matchup by giving points to the underdog and subtracting them from the favorite. For example, if the Kansas City Chiefs are -6.5 against the New York Jets, they must win by at least 7 points for the bet to win. Spread betting adds excitement and balance, even in lopsided matchups.
21. Total
Also called Over/Under, this market focuses on the total number of points scored by both teams combined. Sportsbooks set a number (e.g., 47.5), and you wager on whether the final score will go Over or Under that line.
22. Outcome of 1st Team Drive (4-Way)
Predict the result of the first offensive possession by a specific team. Options include:
Field Goal Attempt
Touchdown
Punt
Turnover
This is a fast-paced and fun prop bet that engages you from the very start of the game.
Main Prop Betting Markets
Prop bets, short for "proposition bets", let you wager on specific outcomes within a game—not just who wins or the final score. These bets are perfect for fans who know the game well and want to analyze game flow, momentum, and tendencies.
23. Total Points - Bands
Instead of a single over/under line, the sportsbook offers ranges (bands) for total points. For example:
41–50 points at 3.25 odds
51–60 points at 4.00 odds
You bet on which band the final total score will fall into.
24. Winning Margin
Predict the point difference between the winning and losing team. For example:
Eagles to win by 1–6 points
Cowboys to win by 7–12 points
Each margin range has different odds, depending on likelihood.
25. Double Result
Also known as Half Time/Full Time, this market requires predicting which team will be leading at halftime and which will win at full time.
Examples:
Chiefs/Chiefs
49ers/Bills
Great for bettors analyzing momentum and second-half adjustments.
26. Race to X Points
Wager on which team will reach a specific number of points first, e.g., 10, 20, or 30 points. If the chosen team reaches that point mark before the opponent, your bet wins.
27. Game to Go to Overtime
A simple yes/no market predicting whether the game will be tied at the end of regulation, resulting in overtime.
28. Highest Scoring Half
Bet on whether the first or second half will feature more points scored by both teams combined.
29. Highest Scoring Quarter
Similar to the above, but on a per-quarter basis.
Options include:Q1, Q2, Q3, Q4
30. Team with Highest Scoring Quarter
Predict which team will have the highest single-quarter scoring output in the game.
31. Total Odd/Even
Bet on whether the combined total points will be an odd or even number. While simple, it’s surprisingly popular for casual bettors.
32. Team To Make First Score 2-Way
Choose which team will score first, regardless of how (touchdown, field goal, etc.).
33. First Score Method 3-Way
Predict the type of score that opens the game:
Touchdown
Field Goal
Any Other (e.g., safety)
34. Time of First Score
Bet on whether the first points will occur before or after a specific minute (e.g., 7:00 in Q1).
35. Special Team or Defensive Touchdown Scored
Yes/No market: Will either team score via kick return, punt return, fumble return, or interception return?
36. Safety Scored Yes-No
Will there be a safety (2-point defensive score) during the game?
37. Total Touchdowns O/U
Predict the total number of touchdowns scored by both teams. Line varies per game.
38. Total Field Goals O/U
Predict the total number of field goals converted in the game.
39. Longest Touchdown Scored O/U
Bet on whether the longest touchdown in the game will exceed a certain yardage (e.g., over/under 39.5 yards).
40. Shortest Touchdown Scored O/U
Conversely, will the shortest touchdown be less than or more than a given line? Often focused on 1-yard runs.
41. Longest Field Goal Scored O/U
Wager on whether a successful field goal over a certain distance will be made (e.g., 49.5 yards).
42. Successful 2 Point Conversion Yes-No
Will either team successfully complete a 2-point conversion attempt?
43. Time of First Touchdown
Similar to first score timing, but specific to touchdowns. Predict if it occurs before or after a time threshold.
44. Time of First Field Goal Scored
As above, but applied to field goals.
45. Time to Score Last
Predict which team will score the final points of the game. A frequent choice for close games or those expected to be decided late.
Player Prop Betting Markets
Player prop bets are among the most exciting ways to engage with an NFL game. These markets allow fans to bet on the performance of individual players, turning each play into a betting opportunity. Below are the main player prop bet types offered by online sportsbooks.
Touchdown Scorers
46. Touchdown Scorers – First, Last, Anytime
Bet on a specific player to score the first, last, or anytime touchdown during the game. These markets are especially popular for star running backs, wide receivers, and red-zone targets.
47. Multi Touchdown Scorers – 2 or More, 3 or More
Wager on a player to score multiple touchdowns in a game. These bets usually offer high odds and are ideal for top-tier scorers expected to dominate.
48. 1st Quarter Touchdown Scorers – Anytime
Bet on a player to score anytime during the first quarter. This market is useful when a team tends to start aggressively or features scripted offensive plays.
49. 1st Half Touchdown Scorers – Anytime
Predict a player to score at any time during the first half. Target high-volume players on teams known for fast starts.
50. 2nd Half Touchdown Scorers – First, Anytime
Focus on who will score in the second half, either first or at any time. Perfect for players who shine late or are part of come-from-behind strategies.
51. Each Team Touchdown Scorers – First, Last
Bet on who will score the first and last touchdown for each team. This requires a strong sense of team dynamics and how players are utilized in different phases of the game.
Player Performance
52. Total Passing Yards
Wager on the total number of passing yards a quarterback will record. Ideal for analyzing matchups involving elite QBs and pass-friendly game scripts.
53. Passing Touchdowns
Bet on the number of TD passes a quarterback will throw. A useful market for high-powered offenses and pass-heavy game plans.
54. Receiving Yards
Wager on how many yards a wide receiver or tight end will gain via receptions. Look at targets per game and average yards per catch.
55. Receptions
Bet on how many catches a player will make. Best suited for slot receivers and possession receivers with high usage.
56. Rushing Yards
Predict a running back’s total rushing yards. Offensive line strength and defensive front quality are key to success here.
57. Interceptions
Bet on whether a quarterback will throw interceptions. Useful when QBs face elite secondaries or tend to take risks.
58. Rushing and Receiving Yards (Combined)
Wager on the combined total of rushing and receiving yards by one player. Versatile backs like Christian McCaffrey are ideal targets.
59. Passing Attempts
Bet on the number of pass attempts by a quarterback. Useful in games where a team is expected to trail and throw frequently.
60. Passing Completions
Predict how many passes a QB will complete. Short-passing offenses and high-percentage throwers are good picks here.
61. Longest Pass Completions
Bet on the longest successful pass by a QB. Great for teams that target deep threats or face weak secondaries.
62. Longest Receptions
Wager on the longest catch by a receiver. Look for speedy players capable of breaking off big plays.
63. Rushing Attempts
Predict how many rushes a running back will carry out. Useful when teams are expected to control the clock with ground-and-pound tactics.
64. Tackles and Assists
Bet on the total number of tackles and assists made by a defensive player. Linebackers and safeties typically lead in this stat.
65. To Record a Sack
Wager on whether a specific defender will record a sack. Defensive ends and outside linebackers are the main focus in this market.
Player Performance Over/Under
Over/Under markets are extremely popular in player props, offering bettors the chance to wager whether a player's stat line will go above or below a given total. These lines are set by sportsbooks based on player performance history, opponent strengths, and game context.
66. Passing Touchdowns Over/Under
Bet on whether a quarterback will throw more or fewer touchdowns than the listed total. For example, if the line is 1.5, and the QB throws 2 TDs, “Over” wins. Ideal for games featuring shootouts or struggling secondaries.
67. Rushing Touchdowns Over/Under
Wager on a running back’s or mobile QB’s total rushing touchdowns. Consider red-zone usage and goal-line carries when making your decision.
68. Receiving Yards Over/Under
Predict whether a receiver’s total yards gained through receptions will surpass the line. Usage, matchup, and coverage schemes all impact results.
69. Rushing Yards Over/Under
Will the player rush for more or fewer yards than projected? Look at defensive front stats, weather conditions, and offensive line health.
70. Passing Yards Over/Under
One of the most common props. Will a quarterback throw for more or less than the projected total? Ideal when projecting game flow and pace.
71. Receptions Over/Under
Bet on the number of catches a receiver or tight end will make. Slot receivers and RBs often excel in this market due to short passes and check-downs.
72. Rushing and Receiving Yards Over/Under
A combo market useful for versatile backs or hybrid WR/RB types. Total yardage from both rushing and receiving is counted.
73. Passing and Rushing Yards Over/Under
This prop suits dual-threat quarterbacks. Passing + rushing yards are tallied to see if the total goes over or under the line.
74. Passing Attempts Over/Under
Will the QB throw more or fewer passes than the posted number? Good for games expected to be high-scoring or ones where the team is likely to play from behind.
75. Passing Completions Over/Under
Similar to attempts, but only completed passes count. Short-passing offenses or high-efficiency quarterbacks are great targets here.
76. Longest Pass Completion Over/Under
This bet looks at the longest single completed pass by the quarterback. Deep-threat WRs and weak secondaries can affect outcomes.
77. Interceptions Over/Under
Will the quarterback throw more or fewer picks than expected? Turnover-prone QBs and opportunistic defenses make this bet attractive.
78. Longest Reception Over/Under
Wager on a player’s longest single catch. Speedy WRs or players involved in big-play designs are the best fits here.
79. Longest Rush Over/Under
Bet on the longest run a player will make. Watch for explosive backs and teams with soft run defenses.
80. Kicking Points Over/Under
A kicker’s total points scored, including field goals and extra points. Useful in low-scoring games where field goals are plentiful.
81. Tackles and Assists Over/Under
Wager on the combined total of solo tackles and assists for a defensive player. Middle linebackers often dominate this stat line.
82. Tackles Over/Under
Bet solely on solo tackles. Evaluate defensive alignment and expected time of possession by opponents.
83. Assists Over/Under
Bet on how many assisted tackles a player will make. Generally lower totals, but useful for defensive role players.
84. Defensive Interceptions Over/Under
Wager on a specific defender or defense to produce a certain number of interceptions. Great when facing a risky or rookie quarterback.
Team Prop Betting Markets
Team props focus on team-specific achievements rather than individual player stats or overall game outcomes. These markets are ideal for bettors who follow team trends, strategies, or matchups. They offer plenty of analytical angles and can often provide better value than traditional moneyline or spread bets.
85. Each Team Points Over/Under
Bet on whether a specific team will score over or under a set number of points in the game. This is often used when one team is expected to dominate or when weather impacts scoring.
86. Team to Score in Both Halves – Yes/No
Wager on whether a team will manage to put points on the board in both halves. This includes touchdowns and field goals, making it ideal for consistent offensive teams.
87. Outcome of 1st Team Drive – 2-Way (Score/Not Score)
Bet on whether a team will score or not on their very first offensive drive. Great for evaluating scripted plays and early game tempo.
88. Team to Make 1st Down on Their 1st Drive – Yes/No
A more micro-level prop: will the team earn a first down on their first possession? Good teams with strong opening playbooks are attractive here.
89. Each Team Total Specials
Wager on a variety of team stats such as:
Rushing Attempts
Rushing Yards
Rushing Touchdowns
Sacks
Tackles and Assists
Tackles
Great for bettors tracking team strengths and defensive matchups.
90. Both Teams to Score X Points
Bet that both teams will score at least a specified number of points (e.g., 20+). A popular option in evenly matched, high-octane games.
91. Both Teams to Score X Touchdowns in Each Half
Advanced prop where you bet on both teams scoring a minimum number of touchdowns in each half. Risky, but with high payouts.
92. Both Teams to Score X Field Goals in Each Half
Similar to above, but instead focuses on field goals. Ideal for games where defenses hold in the red zone.
93. Team to Lead After Every Quarter
Bet on a team to lead the game at the end of all four quarters. Useful in one-sided contests or when you expect dominant control.
94. Either Team to Score 3 Unanswered Times
Wager on whether any team scores three times in a row without the other team replying. Field goals and touchdowns both count.
95. Each Team Touchdowns Over/Under
Bet on each team’s total number of touchdowns, independently. Useful when predicting shootouts or defensive battles.
96. Each Team Field Goals Over/Under
Bet on each team’s total number of field goals made. Weather, red-zone defense, and kicker strength can impact this market.
97. Team to Win Every Quarter
Predict a team to win each individual quarter of the game. A challenging prop with long odds but high upside.
98. Team to Score in Every Quarter – Yes/No
Wager on whether a team will score at least once in every quarter. Great for balanced and consistent offensive units.
99. Team to Win Both Halves
Bet on a team to outscore their opponent in both halves, regardless of total points. Consistency and halftime adjustments are key.
100. Team Total Odd/Even
Bet whether a team’s final score will be an odd or even number. A pure numbers game—best used with bonus offers or fun punts.
101. Team Scoring First Wins the Game – Yes/No
Will the team that scores first also go on to win the game? Helps when analyzing game tempo and opening drive strengths.
Quarter Betting Markets
Quarter betting markets allow bettors to break down a game into smaller, more manageable sections—ideal for in-play betting, exploiting short-term momentum shifts, or analyzing game flow by specific timeframes. These bets focus on 15-minute windows, providing strategic depth and betting opportunities beyond just the full game.
102. 1st Quarter Lines – 2-Way
Bet on which team will win the 1st quarter, with a simple win/lose (draws may push). A great way to wager on teams with strong opening drives.
103. 1st Quarter Point Spread
Back a team to cover the point spread in the 1st quarter. Often used when one side is expected to start strong or exploit early mismatches.
104. 1st Quarter Total
Bet on the combined total points scored by both teams in the 1st quarter. Useful when you expect a slow or high-tempo start.
105. Both Teams to Score in Quarter – Yes/No
Wager on whether both teams will score in the selected quarter. Field goals or touchdowns count. Best in games with efficient offenses.
106. 1st Quarter Result – 3-Way
Bet on the exact result at the end of Q1: Home Win, Away Win, or Draw. Good for tactical early-game bettors.
107. 1st Quarter Winning Margin
Predict the winning margin in the first quarter (e.g., 1–6 points, 7–12 points). Offers better odds than just picking a winner.
108. 1st Quarter Race to X Points
Bet on which team reaches a specified number of points first in the first quarter. Popular in games with dynamic offenses.
109. 1st Quarter Total Odd/Even
Predict whether the total points scored in the 1st quarter will be odd or even. Random, but fun with bonus bets or promos.
110. 1st Quarter Double Chance
Choose two out of three outcomes (Home Win/Draw, Away Win/Draw, Home Win/Away Win) to improve win probability in Q1.
111. Quarter Touchdowns – 2-Way
Bet on whether there will be a touchdown scored in the quarter. Great for low-risk action during defensive matchups.
112. 1st Quarter Total Touchdowns
Predict the number of touchdowns scored in the first quarter (O/U or exact). Often aligned with offensive firepower.
113. 1st Quarter Field Goals
Bet on the number of field goals made during the 1st quarter. Good value in games with conservative red-zone strategies.
114. 1st Quarter Team Points
Wager on a specific team’s points scored in Q1, often available as Over/Under bets. Ideal for trend-based bettors.
115. 1st Quarter Team Touchdowns
Bet on how many touchdowns a specific team will score in the 1st quarter. Target teams with strong scripted plays.
116. 1st Quarter Team Field Goals
Bet on how many field goals a team will make in the opening quarter. Best used when teams stall in the red zone early.
117. 1st Quarter Team to Score
Pick which team will score first or score at all in the 1st quarter. Often offered as Yes/No or 2-way.
118. Any Quarter to End Scoreless? – Yes/No
Wager on whether at least one quarter will end with 0 points scored. Consider this in strong defensive matchups.
119. 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th Quarter Lines – 2-Way
Same concept as Q1 lines, but applied to each quarter separately. Each quarter has unique betting markets based on flow and performance.
Half Betting Markets
Half betting markets focus on the first and second halves of an NFL game, rather than individual quarters or the full game. These bets are especially useful for live betting or when analyzing trends such as a team's strong finishes or slow starts.
120. 1st Half Lines – 2-Way
Bet on which team will win the first half, without considering the second. Often used when one team is known to start fast.
121. 1st Half Point Spread
Back a team to cover the spread by halftime. Offers more value than the full-game spread when anticipating strong early performance.
122. 1st Half Total
Wager on the combined total points in the first half. Good in matchups with fast-paced offenses or sluggish defenses.
123. 1st Half Result – 3-Way
Pick the exact result at halftime: Home win, Away win, or Tie. Great odds, especially in tight contests.
124. 1st Half Winning Margin
Predict the margin of lead by halftime. Categories often include 1–6, 7–12, or 13+ point leads.
125. 1st Half Team Points
Bet on a specific team’s total points in the first half (O/U). Can exploit matchups with strong early offensive game plans.
126. 1st Half Total Odd/Even
Predict whether the combined halftime score will be an odd or even number. Often used in novelty markets or accumulators.
127. 1st Half Total Touchdowns
Wager on how many touchdowns will be scored in the first half. Often available as Over/Under or exact total.
128. 1st Half Field Goals
Bet on the total number of field goals in the first half. Good for low-TD red zone matchups.
129. 1st Half Team Touchdowns
Bet on how many touchdowns a team scores in the first half. Great for teams that script successful opening drives.
130. 1st Half Team Field Goals
Wager on how many field goals a team will score in the first half. Strong picks in tight defensive games.
131. A Score in the Last Two Minutes of the 1st Half – Yes/No
NFL teams often score in the final two minutes due to time management and aggressive playcalling. This is a popular live betting market.
132. 2nd Half Point Spread – 2-Way
Bet on who will cover the spread in the second half only, regardless of the first half result. Ideal for comeback scenarios.
133. 2nd Half Total – 2-Way
Wager on the total points in the second half. Often higher than the first half due to fatigue or urgency.
134. 2nd Half Team Points
Bet on the total points scored by a specific team in the second half. Useful in games where one side frequently adjusts well.
135. 2nd Half Touchdowns – 2-Way
Bet on whether there will be a touchdown in the second half (Yes/No). Often included in combo bets or bonus features.
136. 2nd Half Team Touchdowns – 2-Way
Bet on whether a specific team will score a touchdown in the second half. Combines well with passing prop bets.
137. 2nd Half Lines – 2-Way
Simple win/lose wager on who will perform better only in the second half. Can be a hedge or comeback strategy bet.
Conclusion: Mastering NFL Betting Markets
NFL betting is one of the most diverse and engaging forms of sports wagering available. From classic moneyline and spread bets to highly specific prop markets—there’s something for everyone. Understanding how each outright, match, player, team, quarter, and half market functions can help you tailor your bets based on your expertise, team analysis, or betting style.
Many sportsbooks offer live and micro-markets, including “Next Drive Outcome,” “Play Result,” and more, allowing real-time engagement. Combine your NFL knowledge with the wide selection of 130+ betting types explored in this guide to boost both your enjoyment and your edge.
Whether you’re backing a Super Bowl winner, betting on a QB’s passing yards, or targeting a specific half or quarter, this comprehensive market breakdown will help you approach NFL betting with confidence.
