The future of NFL betting: Why player props are expected to be king

The future of NFL betting: Why player props are expected to be king

Article brief provided by ESPN
  • David Purdum, ESPN
August 14, 2022 9:31 PM
  • David Purdum, ESPN

In the 1940s, Charles McNeil, a Connecticut math teacher turned Chicago bookmaker, revolutionized American sports betting. McNeil is credited with inventing the point spread, which has been the preeminent way to bet on football for 80 years.

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The point spread represents the margin of victory of the perceived favorite in a game. A 7-point favorite, for example, must win by more than seven points to cover the spread. The spread can make outclassed underdogs more attractive to bettors and add intrigue to lackluster matchups. Academic studies have shown spreads can even boost TV ratings, including lopsided affairs when the result of the game has been determined but who will cover is still up in the air.