Sports Betting 101

Americans will spend billions on betting on Sunday’s Super Bowl, the biggest sports wager of the year. Even people who know nothing about football can get in on the action, with bets placed on everything from who will win the coin toss to how long it takes Reba McEntire to sing the national anthem.

Whether you’re placing bets with friends or using an online bookmaker, there are several tips for betting smartly. It’s important to always check customer reviews and Better Business Bureau ratings before betting with a service, and to avoid being lured in by promises of guaranteed wins.

Bet sizing and money management are also key. A good rule of thumb is to risk no more than 1% to 5% of your bankroll per bet. This helps you avoid overbetting and chasing losses, which can lead to big setbacks.

Some fans believe that their knowledge of sports and teams can give them an edge in sports betting. They study analytics, listen to expert picks and watch game film to make informed bets. But that kind of expertise is not available to everyone, and it’s unlikely that anyone can make a living from sports betting.

Sports betting has become an integral part of sports, but it poses a threat to the health and well-being of our student-athletes and to the integrity of NCAA competition. We’re working hard to educate our players and their families on the dangers of gambling, and to help them identify and respond to any issues that may arise.