Betting: Understanding the Meaning of "+"

Introduction

In the world of betting, symbols and terminologies are essential for understanding the odds and potential returns on your wagers. One such symbol is "+", which plays a crucial role in indicating the favorite or underdog in a matchup.

What Does "+" Mean?

When you see a "+" sign in a betting line, it stands for a positive value. In betting, a positive value represents the amount of profit you can potentially earn if you bet on the underdog. This value is expressed as a multiple of the amount you wager.

For example, if you see a line that reads Team A +150, it means that if you bet $100 on Team A, you could potentially win $150 if they win the game.

How to Calculate Potential Winnings

To calculate the potential winnings from a positive betting line, simply multiply the amount of your wager by the positive value.

Example:

• Wager: $100
• Betting line: Team B +200
• Potential winnings: $100 x 200 = $200

Implications of a Positive Betting Line

A positive betting line indicates that a team is considered the underdog in the matchup. This means that they are less likely to win the game, and therefore, the potential payout is higher.

Other Symbols in Betting Lines

In addition to "+", there are other symbols used in betting lines to indicate favorites and underdogs:

• - (minus sign): Represents a favorite.
• 0 (zero): Indicates a pick'em (a matchup where both teams are considered evenly matched).

Effective Strategies for Betting on Underdogs

While betting on underdogs can offer higher potential rewards, it also comes with higher risk. Here are some effective strategies to consider:

• Research and Analysis: Conduct thorough research on the teams and their respective strengths and weaknesses. Look for underdogs with undervalued potential.
• Manage Risk: Bet only what you can afford to lose. Consider spreading your bets across multiple underdogs to reduce the risk of losing your entire stake.
• Value Betting: Look for betting lines that offer favorable odds. Focus on underdogs that you believe have a better chance of winning than the odds suggest.

Tips and Tricks

• Use betting comparison sites to find the best odds on underdogs.
• Be patient and don't bet on every underdog.
• Consider betting on underdogs in parlays to increase potential winnings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Betting on underdogs without proper research.
• Chasing losses by betting on more underdogs.
• Betting too much on a single underdog.

Stories and Lessons Learned

Story 1:

In the 2019 NFL Super Bowl, the underdog Kansas City Chiefs defeated the favored San Francisco 49ers with a score of 31-20. Bettors who wagered on the Chiefs at a +165 betting line enjoyed significant returns on their investments.

Lesson: Careful analysis and value betting can lead to lucrative wins on underdogs.

Story 2:

In a 2018 college basketball game, the underdog Gonzaga Bulldogs upset the heavily favored Duke Blue Devils by a score of 89-87. Gonzaga was a +400 underdog, meaning that bettors who wagered $100 on the Bulldogs won $400.

Lesson: Underdogs can defy expectations and provide surprising rewards.

Story 3:

In a 2020 Premier League soccer match, the underdog West Bromwich Albion held Manchester United to a 1-1 draw. West Brom was a +700 underdog, and bettors who backed the draw won a hefty payout.

Lesson: Even in the most lopsided matchups, underdogs can make a statement and reward bettors.

Conclusion

Understanding the meaning of "+" in betting is essential for making informed wagers. By embracing effective strategies, utilizing tips and tricks, and avoiding common mistakes, you can increase your chances of success when betting on underdogs. Remember, although betting on underdogs can be risky, it also offers the potential for substantial rewards.