The NFL betting landscape Wild Card Weekend brought a few surprises, with two clear blowouts and a pair of shaky showings that rocked Super Bowl odds. The Buffalo Bills and Baltimore Ravens stamped their authority on the bracket, winning by a combined 67-20 and setting the stage for a can’t-miss Divisional Round clash featuring MVP frontrunners Josh Allen and Lamar Jackson.
Wild Card Recap
The Bills cruised at home, dropping Denver 31-17 behind three total touchdowns from Allen. Buffalo’s convincing victory, plus hosting next week, boosted their in-future odds. Meanwhile, the Ravens smothered Pittsburgh 34-17, powered by Lamar Jackson’s MVP-like performance and a monstrous 165-yard day from Derrick Henry. Mark Andrews returned to further ignite Baltimore’s offense.
Elsewhere, the Texans beat the Chargers 32-12, the Eagles bested the Packers, and Justin Herbert suffered a meltdown.
Underdogs went 4-2 ATS at the best offshore sportsbooks, with four of six games hitting the Over. Points poured in particularly from Buffalo and Baltimore, intensifying confidence in both squads moving forward.
Impact on Super Bowl Odds
Buffalo’s route of Denver convinced many bettors to elevate the Bills in the AFC race, especially with Allen sizzling. The Ravens also soared on boards after dismantling the Steelers, but losing WR Zay Flowers (knee) could test their passing depth. Teams like the Chargers stumbled, while the Texans, Commanders, and Eagles gained ground.
Looking Ahead
Headlining the Divisional Round is Allen vs. Jackson—arguably the two best quarterbacking forces this season. Lamar’s ground game plus Henry’s presence can devour the clock, yet Allen’s ball security and scramble threat flourish in big games. Add the cold in Buffalo’s Highmark Stadium, and we’ve got a must-watch collision.
In the NFC, the Lions and Eagles look to fend off challengers, while the Chiefs in the AFC remain a looming favorite. With so many factors—like weather, injuries, and a surging underdog or two—buckle up for more seismic shifts in the Super Bowl odds once these Divisional matchups are decided.
Super Bowl Odds
The Kansas City Chiefs continue their reign as NFL champions after winning their second consecutive Super Bowl. However, will they achieve a historic three-peat? The Bills and Lions might have something to say about that.
The following are the latest Super Bowl odds courtesy of BetOnline (read our BetOnline review), as of January 18th, 2025. Currently, the Lions are the favorites. Feel free to check our betting analysis ahead of Super Bowl LIX!
Best Offshore Sportsbooks for NFL Betting
Choosing the right NFL top offshore betting site is crucial for a seamless and profitable betting experience. The experts at Rate Sportsbooks have meticulously reviewed countless platforms to bring you the absolute best NFL sportsbooks in the business, such as:
50% Free Bets Welcome Bonus
No strings attached, any winnings are yours. Minimum deposit is $50. Free Bets Expire in 30 days.
20% Welcome Bonus
5-time rollover requirement. Minimum deposit is $100.
100% Welcome Bonus
8-time rollover requirement. Up-to $500. All general Everygame Sportsbook rules apply.
100% Free Play Bonus
10-time rollover requirement - Promo Code: MB100
150% sports bonus (18x) + 50% casino bonus (30x)
A Comprehensive Guide for the 2024 Season
Ready to elevate your NFL betting game? You've come to the right place! This comprehensive guide will equip you with everything you need to know, from understanding the basics of NFL betting to uncovering advanced strategies and finding the best NFL offshore sportsbooks.
The preseason is in the rearview mirror, and bettors are eagerly counting the hours until the 2024 NFL regular season kicks off on September 5. The Kansas City Chiefs will begin their quest for a historic three-peat against the Baltimore Ravens. Patrick Mahomes and company opened as 2.5-point favorites and have remained there for most of the offseason, with some of the best NFL betting sites occasionally listing them at 3 points.
The Chiefs aim for dynasty status, and the best NFL sportsbooks seem to agree. As we head into the start of the season, the Chiefs are favored to win Super Bowl LIX, following the San Francisco 49ers, who opened as the early favorites.
2024 NFL Regular Season
This season promises exciting wagering opportunities for fans across the globe. The NFL expands its international presence with the first-ever South American game, as the Philadelphia Eagles face the Green Bay Packers in São Paulo, Brazil just a day after the Chiefs vs. Ravens. Add in three London contests and a matchup in Munich, Germany, and NFL betting sites will be buzzing with intriguing NFL odds all season long.
Placing your NFL bets at the best offshore sportsbooks unlocks a whole new level of wagering opportunities for football bettors. You'll find highly competitive odds and a wider variety of betting lines, giving you more value for your money. These platforms also offer a vast selection of betting options, from unique prop bets to thrilling live in-game wagering. Also, you'll enjoy the convenience of a wide range of deposit and withdrawal methods, including cryptocurrency options for added flexibility. And don't forget about the generous bonuses and promotions that offshore sportsbooks are known for.
Don't miss your chance to get in on the action. Discover the top NFL betting sites today and find the best platform to place your wagers on all the thrilling storylines and unpredictable outcomes that make the NFL a betting favorite. If you're hands are already itching, feel free to get started by checking out the NFL Week 1 odds and schedule.
Whether you're a seasoned pro or a rookie, we've got you covered.
Best Offshore Sportsbooks
Bet smarter, win bigger! Discover the top-rated offshore sportsbooks that offer unbeatable odds, generous bonuses, and secure betting. Join today and elevate your sports betting experience!
How We Rate NFL Betting Sites
Our team employs a rigorous rating system to ensure we recommend only the best NFL betting sites. We consider key factors such as:
Betting Odds & Lines: We compare odds across multiple sportsbooks to identify those consistently offering the most competitive lines.
Betting Market Depth: A wider variety of betting markets provides more opportunities to find value and tailor your wagers to your preferences.
User Interface & Mobile Experience: A user-friendly platform, both on desktop and mobile, is essential for a smooth and enjoyable betting experience.
Payment Methods & Payout Speed: We prioritize sites offering a variety of secure banking options and fast, reliable payouts.
Customer Support: Responsive and helpful customer support is crucial for addressing any questions or concerns that may arise.
Security & Licensing: We only recommend licensed and regulated sportsbooks in their respective jurisdictions with robust security measures to protect your information.
Why is the NFL So Popular for Betting?
The NFL's immense popularity translates into a betting paradise for fans and seasoned bettors alike. Here's why:
- Unpredictability: The NFL is known for its parity, with even underdog teams capable of pulling off upsets. This element of surprise keeps bettors on the edge of their seats and creates exciting wagering opportunities.
- Constant Action: With 17 regular-season games per team and a thrilling playoff format, the NFL offers a non-stop betting bonanza from September to February.
- Massive Media Coverage: Extensive media analysis, expert predictions, and statistical breakdowns provide bettors with a wealth of information to place their wagers.
- Diverse Betting Markets: The NFL offers an unparalleled range of betting options, catering to every type of bettor, from casual fans to seasoned sharps.
NFL Betting Tips & Strategies: Elevate Your Game
While luck always plays a role, successful NFL betting requires knowledge, strategy, and discipline. Here are some expert tips to improve your NFL betting prowess.
For Beginners
- Do Your Research: Knowledge is power in betting. Analyze team stats, player matchups, injury reports, and historical trends to make informed decisions. Don't rely solely on gut feelings or team loyalty.
- Shop for the Best Lines: Odds can vary slightly between different sportsbooks. Comparing lines and finding the best value for your wagers can significantly impact your long-term profitability.
- Understand Bankroll Management: Set a budget for your NFL betting and stick to it. Avoid chasing losses or betting more than you can afford to lose. A good rule of thumb is to risk only a small percentage (1-5%) of your bankroll on any single bet.
More Advanced
- Fade the Public: The public often bets with their hearts, inflating the lines on popular teams. Look for opportunities to bet against the public and capitalize on inflated odds.
- Consider Home Field Advantage: Home teams in the NFL have a historical advantage, but the impact can vary depending on the team and stadium. Factor in home-field advantage when analyzing matchups.
- Follow Line Movements: Pay attention to how betting lines move before a game. Significant line movements can indicate sharp money coming in on one side, potentially signaling a valuable betting opportunity.
- Don't Be Afraid to Bet Underdogs: Underdogs can offer value, especially in divisional matchups or games with close point spreads. Don't shy away from backing the underdog if your analysis suggests they have a good chance to cover.
- Manage Your Emotions: Avoid making impulsive bets based on emotions or recent outcomes. Stick to your strategy and make rational decisions based on your analysis.
- Take Advantage of Bonuses and Promotions: Maximize your betting bankroll by taking advantage of welcome bonuses, reload offers, and other promotions offered by sportsbooks.
How Do You Bet on the NFL?
NFL betting is simple, which is why it’s so popular. Just sign up for a sportsbook, choose the event you want to bet on and make your selections.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to bet on the NFL at the top online betting sites
Getting Started
- Research & Choose the Best NFL Betting Site: Compare things like sportsbook promos, betting limits, and user reviews of the online betting sites you’re considering to help you decide.
- Create an Account: Once you’ve chosen a sportsbook, visit their website and go through the registration process. You’ll need to provide some personal information, including your name, email address, and often your social security number. You will also provide your payment details.
- Deposit Funds: After creating your account, you’ll need to deposit money into your betting account. Offshore sportsbooks typically offer various deposit options, such as credit cards, cryptocurrencies (like Bitcoin), bank transfers, and e-wallets. Choose the method that works best for you. If you are claiming a deposit match bonus, make sure that you meet any minimum deposit requirements.
- Claim Bonuses (Optional): Many NFL sportsbooks offer sign-up bonuses to new customers. These bonuses can include bonus bet credits or deposit bonuses. Be sure to read and understand the terms and conditions associated with any bonus offers, such as the playthrough requirements.
Before Placing Your First Bet
- Browse NFL Betting Markets: Once your account is funded, navigate to the NFL section of the sportsbook’s website. You’ll find a wide variety of betting options, including point spreads, moneylines, over/under totals, prop bets, and futures bets for all the upcoming games in the NFL season.
- Place Your Bets: Click on the game or bet you’re interested in and enter the amount you want to wager. The sportsbook will calculate potential payouts based on the odds. Double-check your selections before confirming your bets.
- Review & Confirm: Review your betting slip to ensure all the details are correct, including the teams, bet types, and amounts. Once you’re satisfied, confirm your bets.
After Placing Your First Wager
- Monitor Your Bets: Keep track of your bets through your sportsbook account. You can monitor the progress of your bets and check for any potential winnings.
- Withdraw Winnings: If your bets are successful and you want to withdraw your winnings, navigate to the withdrawal section of the sportsbook’s website. Choose your preferred withdrawal method and follow the instructions to initiate the process.
The sign-up process at most NFL betting websites is very similar and straightforward. Once you’ve registered, you can start placing your bets immediately. One thing to keep in mind is that you may have to complete an identity verification process before you can withdraw any of your winnings.
Popular Types of NFL Bets
Online sportsbooks offer a variety of football bets to choose from throughout the regular season, like player props, team props, and futures bets. Below, we’ll explain some of the most popular football bets that fans place.
Moneyline Bets
A traditional moneyline is a bet on the winner of a single game. It is the easiest type of bet to understand. The sportsbook will assess each NFL team’s chances of winning and release odds on them. You just need to predict the team that will win.
Spread Bets
Spread betting levels the playing field in NFL games by assigning a handicap to the favorite team, creating a point spread. For example, betting on the Green Bay Packers at -3.5 means they need to win by more than 3.5 points.
Conversely, a bet on the Seattle Seahawks +3.5 means they must not lose by more than 3.5 points or win outright. This approach adds strategy, focusing not just on the winner but by how much they win or lose.
Over/Unders (Totals Betting)
Totals bets are a simple wager on the total combined score in a game, a half or a quarter, or by a certain team. For example, you might find betting action at -110 on over 48.5 points in an NFL game and -110 on under 48.5 points.
Parlay Bets
Parlay betting lets you combine two or more picks into a single wager. For example, you might bet on the Giants, Eagles, Commanders, and Buccaneers all to cover the spread. All four would need to be covered for the bet to succeed, but you will get a large payout if you can achieve this.
Proposition Bets
Prop bets offer a way for players to bet on in-game events without picking a winner. A player prop might focus on an individual player to score a touchdown or the number of yards per game (over/under) a running back will rush for.
Team props and game props betting markets are also available. These bets do not focus on the performance of an individual player but rather, on the team as a whole or a specific aspect of the game. Common team props include total points scored and total yards gained.
Game props can include things like the first team to score, total sacks in the game, whether there will be a safety, or the length of the longest field goal.
Futures Bets
NFL futures markets focus on long-term events. Examples include betting on the Super Bowl winner or the winner of a particular conference or division. You will find futures odds on a range of additional markets, such as a team to make or miss the playoffs or the team that will secure the last place in the division.
Many online betting sites also offer individual player futures. NFL player futures are bets like player props but for the entire season. These wagers focus on things like individual player awards.
NFL futures odds are typically presented in the American odds format as you see in moneyline betting.
NFL Player Props: Betting on Individual Performance
Player props add another layer of excitement to NFL betting, allowing you to wager on specific player achievements within a game.
Here are some common player prop examples:
- Passing Yards: Bet on whether a quarterback will throw for more or less than a specified number of yards.
- Rushing Yards: Wager on a running back's total rushing yards in a game.
- Touchdowns: Bet on whether a player will score a touchdown, with odds varying based on their likelihood of reaching the end zone.
- Receptions: Wager on the number of catches a wide receiver or tight end will make.
Biggest NFL Dates to Bet On
From the kickoff game in Kansas City on September 5, 2024, all the way to the big game in New Orleans, the entire NFL season is a major betting event that involves 272 games. The excitement ramps up right before the playoffs. These are the key dates to mark down in your diary:
- Thanksgiving: Thursday, November 28th, 2024
- Wild Card Rounds: January 11-13, 2025
- Divisional Playoffs: January 18-19, 2025
- Conference Championships: January 26, 2025
- Super Bowl LIX: February 9, 2025
Football bettors can bet on these major events in addition to any regular season games with their preferred football betting site.
Most Winning NFL Teams: A Legacy of NFL Greatness
The NFL boasts a rich history of legendary franchises and dynasties. Here are some of the most winning teams:
Pittsburgh Steelers (6 Super Bowl titles): Known for their Steel Curtain defense in the 1970s and a tradition of hard-nosed football.
New England Patriots (6 Super Bowl titles): A modern dynasty led by quarterback Tom Brady and coach Bill Belichick, dominating the 2000s and 2010s.
Dallas Cowboys (5 Super Bowl titles): "America's Team" rose to prominence in the 1970s and experienced a resurgence in the 1990s.
San Francisco 49ers (5 Super Bowl titles): A powerhouse in the 1980s and 1990s, known for their innovative West Coast offense.
How Do NFL Betting Odds Work?
NFL betting odds work by representing the probability of certain outcomes during an NFL game. They are typically displayed in the American format. This involves a plus or minus number, which indicates how much you stand to win or need to bet for a particular outcome.
For instance, let’s assume the Green Bay Packers are playing against the Dallas Cowboys. We’ll use these odds for an example:
- Green Bay Packers +150
- Dallas Cowboys -170
Here, the Cowboys are favorites, indicated by the minus sign. This means you would need to bet $170 to win $100 if Dallas wins. Conversely, the Packers are underdogs, as indicated by the plus sign. A $100 bet on Green Bay would yield $150 if they win.
Point spread betting is another common type of NFL betting. This involves not just who wins, but by how much. For instance, if the point spread is Cowboys -3.5, this means the Cowboys would need to win by more than 3.5 points for a bet on them to pay out. If they win by 3 points or less or lose the game, a bet on the Packers would pay out.
Lastly, over/under bets involve betting on the total points scored by both teams. If the over/under is set at 47.5, you can bet on whether the total score will be over or under that amount.
Remember, odds can change leading up to the game based on various factors like player injuries, weather conditions, and betting trends. It’s also important to note that different online sportsbooks may offer slightly different odds.
Our Verdict
Whether you’re a seasoned gambler looking for the sharpest odds or a newcomer eager to make your first foray into NFL betting, understanding the dynamics of each sportsbook, the variety of betting options available, and how to manage your bankroll can significantly influence your success.
The sportsbooks we’ve reviewed, such as BetOnline for high betting limits and early lines, offer unique advantages tailored to different betting preferences. Additionally, keeping abreast of ongoing bonuses, sign-up offers, promo codes, and other types of offers can provide added value to your bets.
Betting on the NFL is not just about picking winners but also about understanding the market and potential betting options, finding value bets, and strategically managing your funds. By applying the insights and strategies discussed in this guide, you are better equipped to make informed decisions that maximize your potential returns.
As the NFL season progresses, keep this guide handy as a resource for refining your betting strategies and staying updated on the best practices in NFL betting. Whether you’re wagering on the regular season football games, the playoffs, or the Super Bowl, the right knowledge and tools can turn your sports betting into a more profitable and enjoyable betting experience.
NFL Sportsbooks FAQs - Top NFL Betting Sites
There is no single "best" site, as the ideal platform depends on your individual preferences and priorities. However, some highly reputable and popular NFL betting sites include BetAnySports, BetOnline, Bovada, and MyBookie. Consider factors like odds, bonuses, user experience, and customer support when making your choice.
Is it legal to bet on the NFL online?
Yes, with the best offshore sportsbooks, you can bet on the NFL anywhere in the world, including any state in the US.
How do I choose a safe and reputable NFL betting site?
Look for sites that are licensed and regulated by reputable gaming authorities. Check for secure connections (HTTPS) and read reviews from other users to gauge the site's reputation for safety, fairness, and reliable payouts.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid in NFL betting?
Common mistakes include chasing losses, betting with your heart instead of your head, failing to shop for the best lines, and not understanding the terms and conditions of bonuses and promotions.
How do I withdraw my winnings from an NFL betting site?
Withdrawal methods vary depending on the sportsbook, but common options include bank transfers, credit/debit cards, cryptocurrency, and e-wallets. Be sure to check the processing times and any associated fees before requesting a withdrawal.
What are NFL player props, and how do they work?
Player props are bets on specific statistical achievements or occurrences for individual players within a game. For example, you could bet on a quarterback to throw for over or under a certain number of yards or a running back to score a touchdown.
