When the preseason rolls around, many sports bettors feel optimistic about their chances of having a good betting season. They want to start wagering as soon as possible, and they begin by betting on preseason games. It’s hard to find good value in any preseason contest in any sport. There are various reasons for this. Still, you may be able to test the waters a bit without much risk and by finding some value in a few preseason games.
Take It Slowly
No matter what sport you’re considering, wagering on the preseason is nothing like betting on the regular season. There are many more variables in preseason games, as coaches utilize these contests to try out new and unknown players, work on developing strategies, and get their starters warmed up without wearing them down or getting them injured.
Thus, if you are going to bet on the preseason, take it slowly. Look for one game early on that looks interesting and may be worthwhile. Try to find a money line wager, as point spreads are about as irrelevant as they can be. Remember that starters won’t play much early in the preseason, and there’s precious little information on the new guys.
Look for a game where you expect the favorite to rest most of its players most of the time, and you think the underdog will be more engaged. Also, if the weaker team is at home, that could help your cause. If, after taking the following points into consideration, the underdog looks good, put a little cash on them.
Later in the Preseason is Better
As teams get deeper into the preseason, they will start to solidify their rosters. There will be an attempt to play with the intensity of the regular season. A week or so before the season starts, when you have more information on all of the players and teams, look for a couple of games that may be worth wagering. Place a few bets on select games.
Practice for You, Too
The preseason is a great time for you to learn about each team, scout out their personnel, and work on your handicapping techniques. Handicap some games in the manner in which you normally would during the regular season. Write down as if you were going to really wager, which team you would bet on and how much. Track each fake bet to see how you would have done and, more importantly, to identify strengths and weaknesses in your handicapping.
Are You Ready for Some Real Action?
After weeks of practice, you should be ready to bet on the regular season and make some real cash. During the preseason, be sure to preserve your bankroll and be extra cautious with money management practices. The time before the regular season starts is all about flexing your sports betting muscles a bit, tuning up your game, and developing a true understanding of every team, player, coach, and owner. If you prepare properly, you’ll be all set for week one, where hopefully you’ll go on a tear and win a large percentage of your bets – or, at worst, break even.