American football is the most popular sport in the United States, but its reach is growing across the globe, offering ample NFL betting opportunities. In this article, we'll go over the NFL season, and list the top betting tips and sites.

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One of the reasons NFL betting online is great for UK punters is the amount of available stats. The NFL site displays stats for Passing, Rushing, Receiving, Fumbles, Tackles, Interceptions, Field Goals, Kick-offs, Kick-off Returns, Punting, and Punt Returns for individual players, as well as teams. They also offer Next Generation Stats for things like Fastest Ball Carriers and more.

Ultimately, betting on the NFL is much safer if you understand the game and its stats. For this reason, we'll be explaining all the rules of the game below.

Scoring

The game takes place with 11 players on each team, with the action unfolding over four 15-minute quarters. Teams score 6 points for a touchdown and 3 points for a field goal. After a touchdown, a team can either kick from 36 yards for a point or attempt a two-point conversion with their offense from the two-yard line. 

Touchdown

A touchdown is successful when the attacking side carries the ball over the designated line or end zone and touches the floor with the ball. Touchdowns happen when attacking players run with the ball until tackled, or throw the ball downfield to a teammate who carries the ball over. A touchdown can also be scored by a defensive player through an interception or fumble return to end zone. Scores can also occur special teams through a punt/kick/blocked kick/fumble return. 

Formations

The NFL is very strategic, with teams deployed in various defensive and offensive positions for each play. Teams are typically divided into three units, depending on the team’s position and who has the ball. Unlike European football (soccer) or rugby, teams can switch players, or even the whole team, between plays. They must also stay in formation until the snap of the ball.

Offensive Unit

When the team has ball possession, the goal is to get the ball to the other side of the field to score a touchdown. The team will form a legal offensive formation with the quarterback in the centre. There can be no more than four players on the backfield and no less than five on the offensive line.

Offensive Positions

The most important positions in the offensive unit are the quarterback (QB), halfback/tailback (HB/TB), and fullback (FB):

  • Quarterback: Generally seen as the team leader, he (or the coach) calls the plays. Quarterbacks usually call the plays in the huddle, before the teams line up. He stands behind the ‘center' to take the snap (the first pass backwards), and then passes or runs with the ball.
  • Halfback: Catches and carries the ball on running plays. They are also called ‘running backs' or ‘tailbacks'.
  • Fullback: Fullbacks are usually physically larger than halfbacks. Their job is to block the other team from tackling the quarterback or halfback. They sometimes function as runners, and pass less frequently.
  • Offensive Line Players: The offensive line consists of players who are responsible for blocking the other team from tackling the players with the ball. The middle player is the ‘center', who typically stands in front of the quarterback. On either side of him are the ‘guards', who are flanked by the ‘tackles'.
  • Receivers: Catch passes from the quarterback. They also function as decoys or blockers during plays. The principal receivers are the wide receivers (WR) and the tight ends (TE). Wide receivers line up close to the ‘center', while ‘tight ends' are further away. ‘Tight ends' also function as blockers.

Defensive Unit

When the other team has the ball, the defensive unit comes into play. Their goal is to tackle the ball carrier, or force turnovers by intercepting the ball or causing the other team to fumble a pass.

  • Defensive Line: The defensive line is made up of defensive ends (DE) and defensive tackles (DT). Defensive ends are at the end of the line, while defensive tackles are in the centre. Their job is to pressure and block the offensive line, stop the quarterback from running plays, and allow the linebackers to break through.
  • Linebackers: Linebackers are just behind the defensive line. They are divided into middle linebackers (MLB) and outside linebackers (OLB). They call the defensive plays and lead the defensive strategy. 
  • Defensive Backfield: Often called the secondary, the defensive backfield is made up of cornerbacks (CB) and safeties (S). Cornerbacks position themselves outside the defensive formation, often to cover a receiver. Safeties line up further back between the linebackers, and are the last line of defence against deep passes and touchdowns.

Special Teams Unit/PAT (Point After Touchdown)

Whenever the team has a chance to score a field goal, the special teams unit comes into play, being responsible for all kicking plays. It has three specific positions:

  • Placekicker (K or PK): Kicks the ball forward, either as a pass or an attempt at a field goal.
  • Long snapper (LS): Catches the ball and pass it to the holder or punter during punts.
  • Holder (H): Holds the ball for the kicker. There isn't always a holder in kickoffs, since the ball is usually kicked off a tee. However, in certain situations, a holder will hold the ball for the kicker. This is common in windy situations.
  • Kickoff Returner (KR): The player on the receiving end who catches the ball from the kickoff.
  • Punter: If an offence fails to convert on third down, they more often than not opt to kick the ball downfield back to their opponents using their punter.

There’s no bigger nor more important betting market in the NFL than the winner of the Super Bowl. Every year the Superbowl is one of the largest betting events in the world, with some of the most competitive odds and generous promotions. It can be the ultimate test of your betting predictions too, especially if you happened to bet early. This is, as they say, the big one.

And we now know that Super Bowl LVII will be played between Kansas City Chiefs vs Philadelphia Eagles on February 12th 2023 at the State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona.

It is set to be a true entertainment spectacular, with a headline performance by Rihanna in the famed halftime show in front of tens of thousands in the arena and millions at home. It will be available to watch in the United Kingdom and Ireland on ITV1, the first time since 2007, meaning our UK readers can enjoy this colossal sporting event for free. It will air at 11:30 UK time.

Below is an example of the extremely generous odds available on this event, with these specific examples currently available from bet365.

TeamOddsBookmaker
Kansas City Chiefs10/11bet365
Philadelphia Eagles11/10bet365

This would also convert to – 110 for the Kansas City Chiefs in American odds with an implied probability of 52.4%, making them slight favourites. The Philadelphia Eagles odds would be +110, with an implied probability of 47.6%, casting them as underdogs.

Do note that you can always convert your odds to however best suits your understanding.

If you put the implied probability of these together, that makes 100%, meaning there’s no bookmaker’s advantage known as the overround here at all. This almost never happens and is a showcase of just how great the odds for the Super Bowl can be, and a testament to the fact that the best UK bookmakers are as good as any in the world.

Bear in mind that these odds are not set in stone. Team news, betting activity, even the weather has the ability to change those money lines.

The NFL has a very different structure to most European sports. The NFL Draft is unique when compared with European contracts, and the season has an overall structure that starts with the Preseason, going up to the Playoffs, and finally the Super Bowl.

NFL Draft

Unlike in professional European football, where teams can offer contracts to any player and buy players during the transfer window, the NFL has a much more egalitarian system for assigning new players to the league.

Players are recruited from college after playing college football for at least three years. Every year, the best college football players are drafted into the NFL; rather than choosing their own teams, rookies are selected by NFL teams once a year.

The idea is that the worst team in the league should get the first choice of player. This goes on to the Super Bowl champion, who gets the 32nd pick:

  • Non-playoff teams: Choice 1–20
  • Eliminated in Wild Card round: Choice 21–24
  • Eliminated in Divisional round: Choice 25–28
  • Conference runners-up: Choice 29–30
  • Super Bowl runner-up: Choice 31
  • Super Bowl champion: Choice 32

In total, there are seven rounds of 32 picks. Teams can trade picks or make agreements, allowing them to trade picks in various rounds. They are also awarded compensatory picks if they have lost players in certain positions due to free agency. As such, NFL draft betting is one of the most highly anticipated betting events of the NFL season.

Trades

Players are traded rather than sold in the NFL. A trade has to occur during the offseason, or before the 8th week of the season. NFL teams can trade players for another player or for a draft pick, usually in one of the lower rounds.

Unlike professional soccer, a team cannot simply sell a player. They have the option to trade a player or cut, waive, or release him at the end of a contract. This makes a player a free agent who can sign wherever he pleases.

Free Agency

NFL free agency occurs at the start of the new league year in March. Players that are out of contract can then discuss terms and sign with new franchises after expiry of their previous deal.

The system was brought into place in 1993 to address balance in the NFL, allowing players to seek out the best financial deal possible on the open market from all 32 teams. Leading players in the NFL, such as Tom Brady and Peyton Manning, are among the most notable players to hit the open market.

Preseason

Before the start of each season, NFL teams play unofficial exhibition games before the regular season starts. It starts with a Pro Football Hall of Fame game in early August, leading up to five weekends of exhibition games.

Conferences

The NFL consists of two conferences, each made up of 16 teams, divided into four divisions of four teams each.

American Football Conference (AFC)

  • East Division: Buffalo Bills, Miami Dolphins, New England Patriots, New York Jets
  • West Division: Denver Broncos, Kansas City Chiefs, Las Vegas Raiders, Los Angeles Chargers
  • North Division: Baltimore Ravens, Cincinnati Bengals, Cleveland Browns, Pittsburgh Steelers
  • South Division: Houston Texans, Indianapolis Colts, Jacksonville Jaguars, Tennessee Titans

National Football Conference (NFC)

  • East Division: Dallas Cowboys, New York Giants, Philadelphia Eagles, Washington Commanders
  • West Division: Arizona Cardinals, Los Angeles Rams, San Francisco 49ers, Seattle Seahawks
  • North Division: Chicago Bears, Detroit Lions, Green Bay Packers, Minnesota Vikings
  • South Division: Atlanta Falcons, Carolina Panthers, New Orleans Saints, Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Season

The NFL regular season lasts for 18 weeks, running from early September to late December. Each team must play 17 games with one bye week after the league amended their schedule for the 2021 season to include an extra game.

NFL games are typically played on Sundays, although there is usually a Monday night game and Thursday night game as well. Normally, NFL games are absent on Fridays or Saturdays, at least until late in the regular season, as they are barred by federal law from competing with college or high school football.

Structure:

  • Each team must play against the other teams in the division twice a season. This gives a home game and an away game, for a total of 6 games.
  • A team must also play four games against four teams from another division in the same conference.
  • They must also play four games against four teams from another division in the other conference.
  • They must play two games against two teams from the two remaining conferences.
  • Finally, for the new regulations brought in for 2021, the team must play one side from other conference not in the division from their other inter-conference games.

Playoffs

Seven teams from each conference (14 teams in total) earn a spot in the NFL playoffs. The top team from each of the four divisions from each conference is selected for a total of eight teams. The three teams with the best record from each conference then get a wild card spot, which gives six more teams for a total of 14.

In the 2022 season, however, this format was temporarily changed. This was because of the cancellation of the January 2nd game between the Buffalo Bills and Cincinnati Bengals following the cardiac arrest of Buffalo football safety Damar Hamlin before the end of the first quarter.

As a result of this event, a potential Buffalo and Kansas City AFC Championship Game was scheduled on neutral ground. However, this was cancelled when Cincinnati beat Buffalo in a convincing 27-10 effort in the Divisional playoffs. Nevertheless, this does show that there is the possibility for structural changes to the NFL season in extraordinary circumstances.

Otherwise, the schedule will continue as follows:

First Week – Wild Card Round

In the first week, the teams with the best record from each conference get a bye week (a chance to rest). Meanwhile, the six other teams from each conference have to battle it out in an elimination round, which leaves three winners from each conference.

In the 2022 season, Kansas City Chiefs and Philadelphia Eagles were the top seeds and headed straight into the divisional playoffs.

Second Week – Divisional Round

In the divisional round, the four remaining teams in each conference play each other in direct elimination, and are seeded according to their records. The top seed from the both the AFC and NFC enters the fray.

This year, we saw Kansas City Chiefs, Philadelphia Eagles, Cincinatti Bengals and San Francisco 49ers emerge successful from this round.

Third Week – Conference Championship Round

The conference championship round sees the winners of the divisional round take each other on for the AFC and NFC Championships. The teams with the best records host the Championship Games. 

The NFC Championship game went on first and saw the Philadelphia Eagles dominate the injury plagued San Francisco 49ers with a convincing 31-7 victory.

Kansas City Chiefs has a tougher time against the Cincinnati Bengals in the AFC Championship, with a Harrison Butker’s 45 yard field goal seeing them win 23-20 with three seconds left on the clock.

Super Bowl

The Super Bowl is the most important event in the football year, seeing the AFC and NFC champions face off for the Vince Lombardi Trophy. It's a huge cultural event for Americans, with stars performing during halftime and plenty of other entertainment. 

This year will see the Kansas City Chiefs take on the Philadelphia Eagles in the ultimate NFL showdown of 2023.

The NFL made a commitment to broaden their reach outside of the United States to raise the popularity of the game. However, the league failed in their attempts to build a league outside of the States, with NFL Europe failing to capture the attention of fans across the continent. As a result, the league made the decision to play games in the United Kingdom, beginning in the 2007 season when the New York Giants played the Miami Dolphins.

They also expanded into Mexico in 2016, and into Germany in 2022, finally achieving this game of a broader international expansion.

The Buffalo Bills, Tennessee Titans and Jacksonville Jaguars are expected for the 2023 London Games.

In Germany, the designated home teams are the New England Patriots and the Kansas City Chiefs. The designated visitor teams have been unannounced so far.

It’s also worth noting that there is no Mexico game in 2023 due to renovations at Estadio Azteca.

Despite that small setback in Mexico, it’s clear that the NFL is looking likely to get bigger soon, with greater potential in the rest of Europe and the Americas, if not the whole world.

London Games History

DateTeamsScore
October 28 2007New York Giants @ Miami Dolphins13-10
October 26 2008San Diego Chargers @ New Orleans Saints32-37
October 25 2009New England Patriots @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers35-7
October 31 2010Denver Broncos @ San Francisco 49ers16-24
October 23 2011Chicago Bears @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers24-18
October 28 2012New England Patriots @ St Louis Rams45-7
September 29 2013Pittsburgh Steelers @ Minnesota Vikings27-34
October 27 2013San Francisco 49ers @ Jacksonville Jaguars42-10
September 28 2014Miami Dolphins @ Oakland Raiders38-14
October 26 2014Detroit Lions @ Atlanta Falcons22-21
November 9 2014Dallas Cowboys @ Jacksonville Jaguars31-17
October 4 2015New York Jets @ Miami Dolphins27-14
October 25 2015Buffalo Bills @ Jacksonville Jaguars31-34
November 1 2015Detroit Lions @ Kansas City Chiefs10-45
October 2 2016Indianapolis Colts @ Jackonsville Jaguars27-30
October 23 2016New York Giants @ Los Angeles Rams17-10
October 30 2016Washington Football Team @ Cincinnati Bengals27-27
September 24 2017Baltimore Ravens @ Jacksonville Jaguars7-44
October 1 2017New Orleans Saints @ Miami Dolphins20-0
October 22 2017Arizona Cardinals @ Los Angeles Rams0-33
October 29 2017Minnesota Vikings @ Cleveland Browns33-16
October 14 2018Seattle Seahawks @ Oakland Raiders27-3
October 21 2018Tennessee Titans @ Los Angeles Chargers19-20
October 28 2018Philadelphia Eagles @ Jacksonville Jaguars24-18
October 6 2019Chicago Bears @ Oakland Raiders21-24
October 13 2019Carolina Panthers @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers37-26
October 27 2019Cincinnati Bengals @ Los Angeles Rams10-24
November 3 2019Houston Texans @ Jacksonville Jaguars26-3
October 10 2021New York Jets @ Atlanta Falcons20-27
October 17 2021Miami Dolphins @ Jacksonville Jaguars20-23
October 2 2022Minnesota Vikings @ New Orleans Saints28-25
October 9 2022New York Giants @ Green Bay Packers27-22
October 20 2022Denver Broncos @ Jacksonville Jaguars21-17

Mexico City Games

DateTeamsScore
November 21 2016Houston Texans @ Oakland Raiders20-27
November 19 2017New England Patriots @ Oakland Raiders33-8
November 18 2019Kansas City Chiefs @ Los Angeles Chargers24-7
November 21 2022San Francisco 49ers @ Arizona Cardinals38-10

Germany Games

DateTeamsScore
November 12 2022Seattle Seahawks @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers16-21

Here are some online tips for betting on the NFL, as well as evergreen betting strategies for all you American football punters out there.

  1. Home field advantage matters: Just like in most team sports, the home team generally has a huge advantage. In the US, NFL teams must often fly for several hours to reach their opponent. They usually have even fewer of their home supporters than league matches in European sports. Dome (indoor) teams often perform worse outdoors when exposed to the elements, especially snow. Take all this into account when considering the NFL betting lines.
  2. Pay attention to time zones: Many punters overlook the fact that the US has three separate time zones. It can be a challenge for those teams based on the west coast of the US, who have to play games three hours earlier than usual. For a 1pm ET contest, it would be like playing at 10am PT. Therefore, their performance can be affected after being taken out of their normal routine. The same can be said vice versa, although the timings more often than not favour the teams on the east coast.
  3. Individual matchups are important: As they say in boxing and UFC, styles make fights. The same applies to football. While a team may have an overall better record than another, its weaknesses may play directly into the opposite teams strengths. This is why it is important to compare the individual players going head to head (for example, the offensive tackle versus the edge rushers, or a particular wide receiver against a cornerback).
  4. Pay attention to the coaching styles: Coaches are even more important in American football than in soccer. This is because every play has been planned and rehearsed by them. They tend to use recurring plays and strategies that work better against different opponents. They also know tendencies belonging to other coaches, and some can adapt better than others.
  5. Know which players are injured: Football is a team sport, so each player is an essential part of a larger whole. A small change to the line-up can have major implications, especially if it is a key position like a quarterback. Teams are required to submit injury reports on a daily basis after practice before confirming the eligibility of those ailing players to play in the upcoming game. Therefore, it is a good idea to pay attention to who is missing practice in a game week. Teams official websites, along with Twitter and Instagram, can be very helpful in this regard.
  6. Manage your bankroll: Whichever sport you wish to bet on, bankroll management is quite important, with the word bankroll referring to your wallet for betting. You can leave it on your account at your bookie, or even spread it between several bookies. If you want to bet on an NFL season, you can deposit a sum on a bookie or several bookies. It is usually best to bet between 2% and 5% of your total wallet, as this helps you keep your bets under control and gives you a chance to win back lost money.
  7. Look for value: While some punters will bet on whomever they think will win, regardless of the odds, this is not always a recipe for success, since bookies are very good at odds. It is up to you to see if you can find value in some bets. Value means odds are overpriced or underpriced, or what is more or less likely to occur, than what the odds of the bookies imply.
  8. Choose the best betting odds: Bookies often offer different odds for the same events. Each bookie has its own methodology for setting odds. Shopping between different bookies can often lead to better betting odds and more value. You may also be able to get more value signing up to multiples bookmakers for the purpose of utilising the best new promotions. There’s no limit to how many you can sign up to and use, and big events like the Superbowl often provide a large number of generous offers.
  9. Watch the betting lines: Betting odds are not set in stone. They move depending on how much money comes in at either side. Since NFL betting odds invariably move, you should monitor the movement. When odds drop suddenly, it is often a sign that big money has come in on a particular side. Often, this money is smart money, meaning money from other educated punters. In this case, you should look for a bookie where the odds have not dropped yet. Of course, odds can also drop because of hype money, with casual punters betting more than they should. Here, you would usually bet the opposite of what the masses are betting.
  10. Never tilt: This is a very common mistake. Even the best NFL punters lose bets of up to 40%. Whenever you lose a bet, do not get overemotional and try to win your money back on bets you have not analysed. A smart betting strategy means occasionally accepting your losses and always staying in control.

American football and betting on the NFL online is becoming increasingly popular outside of the US. This, in turn, means that the game has a growing audience this side of the ocean.

If any further proof was needed, NFL fixtures are taking in place in London each season, and there have even been whispers of a London franchise being created in the future, so the outlook for the game looks very bright indeed.

Overseas fixtures only make up a fraction of the regular season games, but national television networks across Europe have picked up the broadcasting rights. As a result, more and more fans are watching NFL at home, making this the perfect time to learn about different bet types for NFL betting.

Point Spreads

Betting against the spread, or spread betting, is the most popular type of betting in the NFL and American football. This is when a set number of points has been established pre-match by the bookmakers, and it's up to the bettors to decide where and what to put their money on.

Do you think that the favourites will win by more or less than the bookmakers suggest? Or will the underdogs lose by more or less than the number of points proposed by the odds-makers? This is similar to what is known as handicap betting on many UK bookies.

Moneylines

The moneyline in American football betting is essentially betting on who will win or lose the game, just as we do when betting on other sports.

Parlays

This type of American football betting is basically the US version of an accumulator: pick upwards of two winning selections for a larger payout.

Totals

Totals NFL betting online works by calculating how many combined points will be scored by both teams during the game. Bookmakers propose an option to bet on whether or not the total points will be either over or under the totals mark, requiring you to bet against it, similar to the spread.

Any Time Touchdown Scorer

Instead of backing a team, you can back an individual player to score a Touchdown at any point during a game. This is a fantastic option if you don’t think backing either team provides favourable odds. There are other variations of this as well, including First Touchdown Scorer, which can inject any game with excitement from the off.

Winning Margin

If you’re looking at a game where you think a team has a clear advantage, then simply betting on a winner might not provide particularly invigorating odds. However, by adding a minimum winning margin, you can lengthen your odds and intrigue in the game. This is almost like a simplified version of handicap/money line betting, meaning it is ideal for newcomers.

Quarter Total

Make every part of every game interesting with quarter betting. Here, you can bet on whether any quarter will provide over or under a specified number of points. This allows for a great deal of strategic depth, as it allows you to think about how both teams will behave in each portion of the game.

1st Half Winner

Another example of a market which breaks the game down into distinct time periods. 1st Half Winner is exactly what it sounds like, offering you the chance to simply bet on who will lead after the first half. The rest of the match is irrelevant to your returns. This is a great market if you think the teams are more predictable early on, and can therefore give you a better chance of selecting a winner in the opening half.

Player Specials

These are markets which offer markets on various achievements of individual players throughout an entire NFL season. For instance, it could be who provides the most passing yards in the Playoffs or who has most touchdown passes. Anything which relates to more broad playing statistics across the season tends to make up the player specials.

Other Bets

While we've outlined the more common American football betting markets, there are many more offered by bookmakers that you can consider. Really, so long as it is a predictable event of any kind taking part of surrounding the NFL, a bookmaker could conceivably provide odds on it.

You can even request a bet on several sites, meaning there really is no limit to what could potentially be available. Finally, there are also bet builders tools, which allow you to put together unique multiples. Many operators also provide great deals on pre-set bet builders that are certainly worth checking out.

Live Betting

Most of the markets mentioned above are also available via live betting. This means that you can bet on a game as it is going on with odds changing as events unfold.

It’s a fantastic challenge for those who wish to put their predictive skills to the test in a fluid, constantly moving environment. And it comes with opportunities along with challenges.

Ever changing odds means more opportunities, and if you can react smartly and swiftly, potentially additional returns.

Quarters betting, for instance, benefits from live betting, because you can adjust your expectations as the game goes along and you see how the teams are strategizing and performing.

Furthermore, there’s also the possibility of prop bets, where bookmakers can offer you up to the minute markets based on what is going on right at that moment. It could be whether a player makes an upcoming field goal, for instance.

And that's something pre-match markets can’t always provide.

Some people prefer to get their bets in before and enjoy the game; others enjoy live betting because it allows for interaction with the action. However you like to bet, we’re glad live betting gives us more choice.

The most eagerly-awaited match in the NFL is packed with Super Bowl betting opportunities. While sizing up your bets, keep these tips in mind:

  1. Don’t limit yourself to the money line: It is easy to suffer tunnel vision while betting on a headline event like this. It is almost like you feel obliged to back a winner. If you are not seeing value in either side, that is OK – in this day and age, there are so many markets available that you are spoilt for choice.Consider Over/Under Total Points, handicap bets, Both Teams To Score X Number of Points, and so on. There is a wealth of options out there, and they might provide better NFL betting odds and opportunities. It is also worth considering in-play betting as well. Not only does this provide ongoing up to date markets and therefore more chances to win, but also allows you to get an idea of how each team is playing before you make your decision.
  2. Study each team: The final focuses on just two teams. While there’s certainly plenty to consider, it is very rewarding and beneficial to research and wrap your head around all remaining participants. We recommend you look up their recent form, how they have performed in previous Super Bowl tournaments, any team news, past head-to-head meetings against upcoming opponents, as well as analysis on the weaknesses and strengths of each team.What is great about the Super Bowl and Super Bowl betting being so popular is that there is a lot of analysis out there. And while some of it is certainly more valuable than others, it is a great tactical policy to get as much information as you can. Remember that when it comes to sports betting strategies that work, there is no replacement for knowledge.
  3. Watch the games: While studying statistics and theory is useful and important, we do not think anything can replace simply watching the games as a vital NFL betting tip. And, when it comes to the Super Bowl, that of course means the playoffs and especially the Championship games. Even if you missed them, there’s still time before the Super Bowl to at least check out the highlights. Find the full games if you can. There’s no substitute for that kind of detail the games themselves can provide. It is the perfect place to start if you are a newcomer. And if you are a long-term fan, you do not need us to recommend the playoffs.
  4. Don’t let your heart overrule your head: The only problem with watching all those great games is that it is so easy to get emotionally invested to the point where you are not making the best decisions with regards to betting tips and strategy. Considering you are watching the best American football teams play towards the biggest event in their sport, you are going to be enjoying some thrilling stuff. The problem with this is that you can end up betting for what you want to happen, rather than what is likely to happen, and this can often make for unwise bets, poor strategy, and probable losses. You might get lucky, but generally speaking, we recommend avoiding this as much as possible. If you cannot back a team without emotions clouding your judgement, consider one of the many great alternative markets.
  5. Take advantage of the bookmakers generosity: Because Superbowl betting is so immensely popular, bookmakers will go out of their way to try and get you to choose them over all others. They do this through excellent odds, which are about as good as it gets without a Best Odds Guaranteed promotion. This is alongside great promotional giveaways. These commonly include enhanced odds, acca insurance, and free bet promotions.

Super Bowl Winner

The winner of the whole thing is naturally one of the most exciting and potentially rewarding markets out there. However, it is also a tricky one to predict. The top teams didn’t get this far without immense talent and ability, meaning that there’s rarely a clear-cut favourite. Nonetheless, the fact that there must be a winner and the odds are so very competitive does typically mean great value odds from decent bookmakers.

NFC/AFC Championship Winner

But of course, before you get to the Super Bowl finals, you must make your way through the NFC and AFC Championships. These aren’t just a great betting markets in their own right; they also allow newcomers to break down the different teams and dynamics and learn about the sport in an exciting and accessible way. Additionally, if you want to make multiple bets across the playoffs and the finals, you can back both the Super Bowl winner and the NFC/AFC Championship winner to craft a logical series of events. This results in a united betting strategy – perfect for accumulator betting.

Best Super Bowl betting site for Super Bowl and NFC/AFC Championship winner betting: bet365

MVP

And it’s not just teams you can bet on – another very popular market is to bet on the most valuable player of the entire Super Bowl tournament. This is a fascinating betting market, because you’re essentially trying to predict who will cement their legacy at this year’s annual championship. We recommend this for those of you who are more seasoned NFL fans and who have a good deal of prior knowledge of the players’ abilities.

Best Super Bowl betting site for MVP betting: Paddy Power

Over/Under Points

You don’t have to back a team to win to enjoy NFL betting online. If you can’t choose a winner or indeed, if who you think will win and who you hope will win are at odds, betting on over/under points can provide a perfect compromise. A typical betting line would be over/under 56 total points, to give an example. What makes this market so interesting is that you’re betting on the kind of game you think will take place, as opposed to the winner. This allows you to think about your favourite sports in a whole new way.

Best Super Bowl betting site for Over/Under points betting: Betfair

First/Last Touchdown Scorer

Getting away from team betting, with First/Last Touchdown scorer, you're wagering on an individual, and more specifically, which individual will be the first or last touchdown scorer. Here’s a market that is generally available when online NFL betting, but takes on extra importance here because it’s the kind of incident which could make someone a superstar for the rest of their career. Few people forget the winning touchdown in a Super Bowl final.

Best Super Bowl betting site for First/Last Touchdown Scorer: Betfair

Race to 10 points

One of the great things about Super Bowl betting markets is they can provide extra excitement at any point in the game. A race to 10 points means that your wager could be settled in the first quarter, really kickstarting the fun from the moment play begins. It’s a great market strategically, as you can consider not just who you think is the best team, but also who comes out of the gate hot and makes a difference early on. This is an especially pressing and interesting question with a game this high pressure.

Best Super Bowl betting site for Race to 10 points: Parimatch

First Score Method 6-way

This asks you how the first points will be won and give you six distinct possibilities to choose from. You’ve got Touchdown, Field Goal or Any Other method (this is a typical example – different bookmakers may set the parameters of this slightly differently of with alternate wording), with two markets for each representing each team. This market really narrows in on how you think that first blood will be drawn, and gives a whole new perspective of the strategy and strengths of each team. This is also ideal for those betting on multiple markets with the need to create a consistent narrative of how they think the game will unfold to be successful.

Best Super Bowl betting site for First Score Methods 6-way: bet365

Longest Touchdown Scored

At the Super Bowl, touchdowns aren’t just points on the scoreboard, but are also memories, legendary moments – the things which make careers and can change the game completely. And this is even more special when it’s an extra-long touchdown – something really spectacular. There are many touchdown markets as a result, taking a unique, statistical approach. A common over/under amount would be 43.5 yards, which serves as an example of how you can really back any facet of play, even including specific measurements.

Best Super Bowl Betting Site for Longest Touchdown Scored: Unibet

One thing that everyone seems to agree on is this could be anyone’s game. Both the Kansas City Chiefs and the Philadelphia Eagles have had astoundingly impressive seasons, to the point where most bookmakers have them at close to evens odds, with a slight edge to KC Chiefs.

And in all honesty, we could see that seesaw rebalance the other way before the Super Bowl happens, so on a knife edge is that position of favourites.

Here, we’re going to show you what we think. We have no crystal ball and can make no guarantees, but it should provide some food for thought as you consider which wagers to place.

Philadelphia Eagles to win

Like many of you, we’ve gone back and forth on this one, but are giving the slightest of nods in the direction of the Eagles. Our reason for this is threefold. First off, we think that that their dominant win over San Francisco provides a confidence boost compared to the trial that was Kansas City’s path to the State Farm Stadium.Beyond that, it’s the consistency of the performances by the Philadelphia team. While Kansas have astounded, we think Philly have an edge in stability. Finally, it’s the multitude of ways the Eagles have won, they’ve not just been successful, but have also proved they can score in so many different ways that we think that will be immensely tough to defend against.

Patrick Mahomes to be MVP

If you think this is a contradiction, think again. While Patrick Mahomes is on what we predict will be the losing side, it is possible to become MVP in such a scenario. The last and only time it has happened is with Chuck Howley in 1977, and we think Mahomes will become the second man to make that history. After the heroics against Cincinnati, we think Chuck has everything he needs at full recovery to be the star player no matter the end results.

Over 56 points scored, under 6 winning margin

Two predictions in one here for those looking towards the additional prop markets for betting opportunities. Put simply, we think the scoring prowess of both teams is such that we predict both a very high-scoring and close game. This is also a combination that sits logically together for those looking for multiple bet opportunities.

  • Buffalo Bills (Colours: Red, White, and Blue / Stadium: New Era Field)
  • Miami Dolphins (Colours: Turquoise, and White / Stadium: Hard Rock Stadium)
  • New York Jets (Colours: Green, and White / Stadium: MetLife Stadium)
  • New England Patriots (Colours: Red, White, and Blue / Stadium: Gillette Stadium)
  • Baltimore Ravens (Colours: Gold, White, and Blue / Stadium: M&T Bank Stadium)
  • Cincinnati Bengals (Colours: Orange, White, and Black / Stadium: Paul Brown Stadium)
  • Cleveland Browns (Colours: Orange, White, and Black / Stadium: FirstEnergy Stadium)
  • Pittsburgh Steelers (Colours: Yellow, White, and Black / Stadium: Heinz Field)
  • Houston Texans (Colours: Red, White, and Blue / Stadium: NRG Stadium)
  • Indianapolis Colts (Colours: White and Blue / Stadium: Lucas Oil Stadium)
  • Jacksonville Jaguars (Colours: White and Black / Stadium: TIAA Bank Field)
  • Tennessee Titans (Colours: White and Blue / Stadium: Nissan Stadium)
  • Denver Broncos (Colours: Orange, White, and Blue / Stadium: Empower Field at Mile High)
  • Kansas City Chiefs (Colours: Red and White / Stadium: Arrowhead Stadium)
  • Los Angeles Chargers (Colours: Yellow, White, and Blue / Stadium: Dignity Health Sports Park)
  • Oakland Raiders (Colours: White and Black / Stadium: Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum)
  • Dallas Cowboys (Colours: White and Blue / Stadium: AT&T Stadium)
  • New York Giants (Colours: Red, White, and Blue / Stadium: MetLife Stadium)
  • Philadelphia Eagles (Colours: Green, White, and Black/ Stadium: Lincoln Financial Field)
  • Washington Commanders (Colours: Red, White, and Gold / Stadium: FedExField)
  • Chicago Bears (Colours: Orange, White, and Blue / Stadium: Soldier Field)
  • Detroit Lions (Colours: Silver, White, and Blue / Stadium: Ford Field)
  • Green Bay Packers (Colours: Green, White, and Yellow / Stadium: Lambeau Field)
  • Minnesota Vikings (Colours: Purple, White, and Yellow / Stadium: U.S. Bank Stadium)
  • Atlanta Falcons (Colours: Red, White, and Black / Stadium: Mercedes-Benz Stadium)
  • Carolina Panthers (Colours: Black, White, and Blue / Stadium: Bank of America Stadium)
  • New Orleans Saints (Colours: Black and Gold / Stadium: Mercedes-Benz Superdome)
  • Tampa Bay Buccaneers (Colours: Red, White, and Black / Stadium: Raymond James Stadium)
  • Arizona Cardinals (Colours: Red and White / Stadium: University of Phoenix Stadium)
  • Los Angeles Rams (Colours: Gold, White, and Blue / Stadium: LA Memorial Coliseum)
  • San Francisco 49ers (Colours: Red, White, and Gold / Stadium: Levi's Stadium)
  • Seattle Seahawks (Colours: Gold, White, and Blue / Stadium: CenturyLink Field)

The finale between Kansas City Chiefs and the Philadelphia Eagles will be a showdown of superstars, positively overflowing with talent waiting to carve their name in the annals of NFL history. And, considering the form both sides have been on, we’d say that there’s barely a name on that field who doesn’t have the capacity to do just that.

But who do we think is most likely to emerge a legend from the Super Bowl 2023?

And, as far as Super Bowl betting on the MVP goes, who do we predict to be the most likely winners?

Here’s our list of top players to watch.

  1. Patrick Mahomes – Kansas City Chiefs: In terms of the MVP spot, most people think it will be a showdown of the two top quarterbacks in the 2022 NFL season and playoffs, and for the Kansas City Chiefs, that means Patrick Mahomes.Many think that he ended the discussion on who is the very best in the world right now in the final 17 seconds of the AFC Championship game against Cincinnati. Even with an injured leg, he managed to muscle through a first down. This set up a penalty following roughness from Joseph Ossai, which was just enough for Harrison Butker to nail a 45-yard field goal and win the game in spectacular fashion.It was an astonishingly gutsy performance following a high ankle sprain, featuring over 300 passing yards and touchdowns. Typical stats for Mahomes, but against that competition on one leg? Absolutely inspiring. With a decent break between that game and the Super Bowl, Philadelphia Eagles must be wary of what this man can do at 100%.
  2. Jalen Hurts – Philadelphia Eagles: It’s been an incredible journey for Philly quarterback Jalen Hurts. He went from a man few fans wanted to see drafted to the team, struggling to perform in 2020, to being the pillar on which their Super Bowl dreams hold weight.With him as their star, they have broken records for most touchdown runs in a season, and Hurts himself made history with a new single season record for a quarterback with his 15th rushing touchdown. Were it not for an injury, Hurts would have surely been the MVP of the regular season.Their rushing attack is a vital part of what makes The Eagles such a difficult team to face, and the likes of Jalen Hurts (and also Miles Sanders) make that possible. It could make all the difference here.
  3. Travis Kelce and Jason Kelce: Never before have we seen two brothers compete against each other in the Super Bowl, and as far as extra human-interest stories go, it’s no surprise this one has made headlines. We’ve seen their mother in the news racking up air miles by flying between games to see both her boys. Eagles’ legend Jason Kelce even wore Chiefs gear for the AFC Championship before immediately relinquishing it in preparation for this clash of football titans. And, make no mistake, for as entertaining a story as this is, it’s also a serious showdown. Both already are former Super Bowl winners, with Jason being a sure-fire hall of famer centre while Travis is considered among the top receiving tight ends in NFL history. Both can leave a serious mark on this Super Bowl final.

The NFL was first established in 1920 as the American Professional Football Association, with only 10 sides participating – all recruited from just four states. Two years later, the league took its current moniker, and from those original 10 sides, only two remain, also having different names. The Decatur Staleys and the Chicago Cardinals are now more famously known as the Chicago Bears and the Arizona Cardinals respectively, while the Green Bay Acme Packers are the oldest NFL franchise still calling their original location home.

In the past century, the NFL has seen more than its fair share of legendary performers, all-star winning coaches, and great nights in historic arenas, but which are the greatest of all time?

Most Successful Franchises in American Football and NFL History

Los Angeles Raiders

In 2020, the Raiders relocated from Oakland to Las Vegas, a change which appeared to provide improvements. They had not qualified for postseason since 2002, and managed it a year following the move in 2021. It’s a mere hint of their glory years.

For an entire decade between 1967 to 1977, the Raiders made the playoffs in all but one season, picking up their first Super Bowl in 1976. Within seven years, they had scooped up a further two Super Bowls to sit alongside their five conference titles and 15 division titles.

New York Giants

With four Super Bowls, the Giants have enjoyed success throughout NFL history, making NFL championship game appearances in each decade from the '20s through to the '60s. And while the '70s saw some barren years, they still won the Super Bowl in 1986, 1990, 2007, and 2011, which go nicely next to four pre-Super Bowl championships and 11 conference titles. They returned to the playoffs following the 2022 season, besting Minnesota in the Wild Card playoffs before eventually falling 7-38 to the Philadelphia Eagles. Considering Philly since dominated their way to the finals, it is worth pointing out that the Giants lost to arguably the best NFL team of 2022/23.

New England Patriots

In the 18 years between 2001 and 2018, the Patriots won 16 of their 20 division titles, which is almost unmatched in professional sport, let alone American football. Throw in another 6 Super Bowl wins and a further 11 conference titles, and you begin to see why the Patriots are one of the greatest franchises in world sport. The 2022 season has been the first they have not made the playoffs since 2008, and there’s no doubting the Patriots will be looking to return to their winning ways next season.

Pittsburgh Steelers

Since 1970, the Steelers have the best record in football, winning the most games and earning the best winning percentage. They have also scooped 23 divisional titles and six Super Bowl titles, while winning 10 out of 16 division titles and another eight conference titles. That’s a record that speaks for itself. Much like the Patriots, it was a surprise to see this legendary team fail to make the 2022-23 playoffs. However, considering they were a mere win away, we’d expect to see the Steeler’s back in the spotlight sooner rather than later.

Green Bay Packers

Established in 1919, the Green Bay Packers have, over the past century, amassed 17 division titles, nine conference titles, nine pre-Super Bowl championships, and four Super Bowl titles. Even the Super Bowl trophy itself is named after the man who coached the Packers to all those titles – the legendary Vince Lombardi. They were even favourites at the start of the season to win the Super Bowl in 2023; however, they fell short in what has continued to be a truly unpredictable year for the NFL.

FranchiseSuper BowlDivisionConference
New England Patriots62211
Pittsburgh Steelers6248
Dallas Cowboys52410
San Francisco 49ers5217
New York Giants42211
Green Bay Packers4219
Denver Broncos3158
Washington Commanders3156
Los Angeles Raiders3164
Miami Dolphins2135

Legendary Players

Walter Payton

During a 13-year career, Payton missed only one game, which gives you some idea as to the type of player he was. Nicknamed Sweetness due to his off-field persona, Payton refused to concede an inch on the pitch, punishing defenders with his plays for The Bears. He finally hung up his boots in 1987, but has never been forgotten.

Joe Montana

49ers star Joe Montana was the most decorated quarterback of his generation in the NFL, having retired winning four Super Bowls, eight Pro Bowls, and making the NFL’s All-Pro team an astonishing five times. In 1990 he was named MVP of the league for the second year straight, while he was also named MVP of the Super Bowl three times before his retirement in 1994.

Tom Brady

Tom Brady is another quarterback with a CV to make his rivals sweat. Over the past 20+ years, Brady scooped seven Super Bowls, five Super Bowl MVPs, three NFL MVPs, and 15 Pro Bowls, marking a truly blessed career spent almost entirely with the New England Patriots before his move to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2020. That inclusion helped lead the team to their first Super Bowl since 2002.

Brady continued to make history in 2021, setting a record for completions and was the leader in passing yards and touchdowns. He holds a record of 10 Super Bowl appearances over 22 seasons, and is considered by many to be the greatest quarterback of any generation.

After 23 seasons in the NFL, Brady announced that he would be retiring ‘for good' on February 1st, 2023 – a year to the day when he initially said he was quitting professional football before eventually returning to the Buccaneers for the 2022 season. However, this time around, it appears that his decision is final, with Brady having released an emotional video on Twitter thanking his friends, family, and teammates for their support over the years.

Jerry Rice

Widely considered to be the greatest wide receiver in NFL history, record-breaking Rice, who turned out for the 49ers, Raiders, and The Seahawks over a 19-year career that ended in 2004, is the highest-scoring touchdown scorer in the game’s history. Rice is also the all-time leading receptions maker, as well as having received almost 22,500 yards, way ahead of his closest challengers. Famed for his attitude and never-say-die work ethic, Rice never shirked a challenge and never shied away when it mattered most.

Jim Brown

Weighing in at 230 lbs and standing at over 6'2″, Jim Brown of the Cleveland Browns was unbeatable throughout his career, which sadly only lasted nine seasons. During that time, and using his considerable gifts, Brown was bigger, faster, and stronger than any of the competition, amassing eight rushing titles among his many records.

Previous Super Bowl Winners

Super Bowl Game & YearWinner
LVI – 2022LA Rams
LV – 2021Tampa Bay Buccaneers
LIV – 2020San Francisco 49ers
LIII – 2019LA Rams
LII – 2018Philadelphia Eagles
LI – 2017Atlanta Falcons
50 – 2016Carolina Panthers
XLIX – 2015Seattle Seahawks
XLVIII – 2014Seattle Seahawks
XLVII – 2013San Francisco 49ers
XLVI – 2012New York Giants
XLV – 2011Green Bay Packers
XLIV – 2010New Orleans Saints
XLIII – 2009Arizona Cardinals
XLII – 2008New York Giants

Previous AFC Championship Winners

Year Of WinWinner
2022Kansas City Chiefs
2021Cincinnati Bengals
2020Kansas City Chiefs
2019Kansas City Chiefs
2018New England Patriots
2017New England Patriots
2016New England Patriots
2015Denver Broncos
2014New England Patriots
2013Denver Broncos
2012Baltimore Ravens
2011New England Patriots
2010Pittsburgh Steelers
2009Indianapolis Colts
2008Pittsburgh Steelers

Previous NFC Championship Winners

Year Of WinWinner
2022Philadelphia Eagles
2021LA Rams
2020Tampa Bay Buccaneers
2019San Francisco 49ers
2018LA Rams
2017Philadelphia Eagles
2016Atlanta Falcons
2015Carolina Panthers
2014Seattle Seahawks
2013Seattle Seahawks
2012San Francisco 49ers
2011New York Giants
2010Green Bay Packers
2009Arizona Cardinals
2008New York Giants

Legendary Coaches

Don Shula

Collecting two Super Bowls and six Conference Championships, Don Shula was a '60s master of the NFL as he took charge of The Colts and then The Dolphins. He could have won even more times had the fates not decreed that Johnny Unitas be struck down by injury in the 1965 divisional round, forcing Shula into a reshuffle that ultimately saw his Colts side unable to see out a win against The Packers. By the end of his time coaching, Shula had won more games than any other NFL coach.

Bill Walsh

49ers legend Bill Walsh masterminded three Super Bowl wins on his way to legendary status back in the '70s. Quite rightly accepted as a reformer and a pioneer, Walsh’s brilliant take on the game originally came about by way of necessity when, as assistant with The Bengals, he designed an offence of three-step drops, quick reads, and short throws by way of overcoming a team injury crisis that would later carry his teams to many famous wins. Throughout his career, that short passing philosophy was his stock in trade, which redefined the game.

Paul Brown

Before founding the Cleveland Browns, Paul Brown devised the playbook while still working as a high school coach. In a career that would later see him coaching Ohio State and developing his football philosophy while serving during World War II, Brown did perhaps more than anyone to develop the game we know today, from naming a franchise after himself to devising the 40-yard dash. He really was an incredible man with an influence over the game like no one else before or since. That he achieved it all so young is even more remarkable. Oh, and you can throw in three NFL Championships and four AFC Championship wins too!

Vince Lombardi

Lombardi is quite rightly regarded as one of the greatest football coaches of all time, as evidenced by his all-conquering Green Bay Packers, which swept aside all before them during the 1960s. Scooping 2 Super Bowl wins and a further 3 NFL Championships, Vince served for five years as assistant coach to the New York Giants, where he played a critical role in the Giants’ success. This culminated in the league championship in 1956, after which The Packers came calling – and the rest is history.

Bill Belichick

The most decorated coach in the game, Bill Belichick of the New England Patriots has collected an incredible five Super Bowl wins and seven AFC Championships. He didn’t get there immediately, however, working first as Bill Parcells' defensive strategist with The Giants, before tanking as the head coach of The Browns. After going back to the drawing board, he redefined his game when he took up his ultra successful job with The Pats, which dominated for a generation. The New England Patriots may have failed to make the playoffs in the 2022-23 season, but if anyone can get them back there, it’s Bill.

Famous Venues

AT&T Stadium, Dallas Cowboys

The 100,000-seater AT&T Stadium, with a retractable roof and gigantic video board, is located in Arlington, Texas, and opened in 2009.

CenturyLink Field, Seattle Seahawks

Hosting soccer games as well as football, CenturyLink is generally accepted to be the loudest stadium in the NFL, especially when this downtown Seattle venue is at full 68,740-person capacity.

U.S. Bank Stadium, Minnesota Vikings

Built in 2016, the U.S. Bank Stadium is a modern venue that puts others to shame. This indoor glass and metallic cultural highlight holds 66,655 people, making it a true symbol of Minnesotan pride.

Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta Falcons

Complete with a floating, circular video board, the Mercedes-Benz Stadium is home to The Falcons, while also serving as home of Atlanta United FC of Major League Soccer. When the former play, the pitch gives way to allow up to 71,000 fans.

Lambeau Field, Green Bay Packers

Opening in 1957, Lambeau Field, named after founder, player, and coach, Curly Lambeau, is a classic stadium that harks back to the games’ golden age. Set outdoors on Green Bay’s notoriously cold frosty shores, this historical old ground is located on Lombardi Avenue, named in honour of former head coach, Vince Lombardi.

State Farm Stadium, Arizona Cardinals

This venue is legendary not only for being the home to what should be an iconic 2023 Super Bowl final, but also for the great NFL memories it already holds. The home of the Arizona Cardinals has already seen Super Bowl glory in 2008 and 2015, alongside providing a wonderful space for the season more generally.

No surprise considering what a technical marvel the stadium is, with the first retractable roof ever built on an incline making it perfect for all seasons, and the ability to increase seating capacity to 72,600 for the biggest sporting events. Outside the NFL it’s also a vital stadium for college football, basketball, and international soccer tournaments. We’re sure this year’s final will only add to its legacy, and they very well may need to make use of those extra seats.

Legendary Games

Green Bay Packers vs Dallas Cowboys – 31 December, 1967

Taking place on the last day of 1967, this classic match was christened the Ice Bowl, as the game was played between two of the league's most recognisable teams and took place in Arctic conditions as the winter of December’s final day blew in off Lake Michigan.

Players suffered, while Vince Lombardi and Tom Landry played out their chess match on the side of the pitch. This was before Lombardi ordered a final drive by Bart Starr to win the tie outright, rather than tie the game, forcing a horrid frozen overtime that nobody other than the fans really wanted.

Miami Dolphins vs Kansas City Chiefs – 25 December, 1971

This Christmas Day classic is still the longest NFL game ever played at 82 minutes and 40 seconds, and while The Dolphins came out on top, 27-24, it was The Chiefs who had raced into 10-0 lead and held good for a holiday win.

Miami fought back in the second quarter to draw the game level before almost allowing The Chiefs back in for the win in standard time, only to see them miss a game-winning field goal. Extra time proved to be just as wasteful, only this time for both teams, before The Dolphins clinched the win in the second overtime.

Denver Broncos vs Cleveland Browns – 11 January, 1987

In one of the most iconic games in NFL history, TV replays showed what in-play video reviews did not: the winning goal, struck by Broncos’ Rich Karlis, went wide of the posts instead of over them to deny Browns a place in the Super Bowl. What’s worse, the miss hit shot was launched as part of a play that started with only 5:32 left on the clock.

San Diego Chargers vs Miami Dolphins – 2 January, 1982

Every so often, you get a sporting contest where all involved play so well that no one deserves to lose. Such was the case with this '80s classic that led to Sports Illustrated labelling it “The Game No One Should Have Lost“. Although The Chargers stormed into a 21-0 lead, The Dolphins fought back to only lose by 41-38.

Baltimore Colts vs New York Giants – 28 December, 1958

The first NFL game to be broadcast live on TV, the networks really couldn’t have selected a better match to run with. Featuring the legendary Johnny Unitas starting at quarterback for The Colts, Unitas got the ball with a few minutes of play left before embarking on a two-minute drill that saved the game for his team, with seconds left to play and mark the first overtime in NFL championship history. In added time, The Colts repeated the trick to win the game 23-17.

New York Giants vs New England Patriots – 3 February 2008

The Patriots were aiming to become the first team in NFL history to go 19-0, after surging through the regular season and the first two rounds of the playoffs. The Giants were their only obstacle, who had scraped their way into the post-season and put forward an incredible run to reach Super Bowl XLII, beating the Dallas Cowboys and Green Bay Packers.

New York’s defence held MVP Tom Brady’s record-breaking offense in check for the majority of the contest. However, a late strike to Randy Moss appeared to have won the game for the Pats. Eli Manning had other ideas, orchestrating a drive that included the infamous ‘helmet catch’ to David Tyree before throwing a game-winning touchdowns to Plaxico Burress, breaking Patriot hearts and denying them the ultimate season.

New England Patriots vs Atlanta Falcons – 5 February 2017

The game will live long in the memories of Patriots fans and haunt the Falcons for the rest of their days. League MVP Matt Ryan guided the Falcons into a dominant 28-3 lead at Reliant Stadium in Super Bowl LI in the third quarter. Atlanta were rampant, and the statisticians predicted that they had a 99.7% chance of securing the Vince Lombardi Trophy for the first time.

However, Tom Brady was on the other sideline. After a terrible start to the contest, including a pick-six to Robert Alford, the GOAT revitalised the Patriots and delivered an emphatic 25-point comeback in the final 18 minutes of regulation to stun the Falcons. New England received the ball first in overtime, and James White found space to find the endzone to secure a fifth Lombardi and second in three years for the Pats.

Kansas City Chiefs vs Buffalo Bills – 23rd January 2022

Proof that you don’t have to look far for a truly great game of football is the Division Round showdown between Kansas City Chiefs and Buffalo Bills. The first three quarters saw back and forth action in this rematch from the 2020 AFC Championship, before the game exploded beyond our wildest expectations in the fourth to create a modern classic.

Let’s take you to the final two minutes, the Bills were down 26-21 when Josh Allen found an open on fourth down to dramatically take the lead, followed by a masterful two point conversion from Josh Allen to Stefon Diggs. Suddenly the seesaw had shifted to the Bills favour at 29-26.

But then, like lightning, Patrick Mahomes and Tyreek Hill quickly fused together in a lay for a 64-yard touchdown. Momentum had swung back once more in moments.

And, if you thought it was all over, you hadn’t counted on the resilience of Josh Allen and the skill of Gabriel Davis who hit touchdown number four with 13 seconds to go.

But then, a 49-yard field goal from Butkar sent the game into overtime.

Kansas City would go onto win the coin toss and the game, with an eight-yard touch yard pass to Travis Kelce that finally won the game as Buffalo Bills finals found themselves out of miracles.

It is considered by many to be the best two minutes of American football ever played.

Rugby

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Boxing

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Trophy

Golf Betting Online

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Horse

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Yes, you can, and what’s more, there are loads of options for you to choose from.

Betting on the NFL is simple and works exactly the same way as betting on, for example, soccer or rugby. Players can place accumulators, simple singles, or season-long bets that pay out when the trophies are awarded.

The most popular way to bet on the NFL is spread betting, also known as betting against the spread.

You can place your bets on the NFL in the same you would if you were betting on soccer. Pick your selection, add it to your betting slip, and place the bet.

Of course! These days, more and more people bet through their smartphones, and bookmakers make sure that their sites work on desktop, laptop, tablets, and mobiles on either Android or iOS.

Yes, there are loads of ways to watch your favourite NFL matches. Many European broadcasters have bought the rights to broadcast events, so you can watch the action take place from the comfort of your own home.

The NFL International Series is a slate of games that are played in London on a yearly basis. The league has played up to four matches from its schedule of regular season matches at Wembley Stadium and Tottenham Hotspur Stadium since 2007. It allows fans from Europe to attend matches without having to travel to the United States.

Yes. You can bet on the NFL International Series just as you would any other NFL game.

Absolutely you can. In fact, the Super Bowl is the biggest betting event in the American football sporting calendar.

Because the Super Bowl is such an immensely popular event, you can find many great operators which provide markets on the event, including our pick for best NFL bookies in general.

There are all kinds of great markets to choose from including winner of the whole competition, individual games, conference winners, handicap markets, and plenty of markets focused on individual players – including MVP of the whole tournament.

On February 12th, 2023, 11:30 UK time, the Kansas City Chiefs will take on the Philadelphia Eagles at the State Farm Stadium in Glendale Arizona.

By reaching the end of this article, you should now know how to bet, and who to bet on, in American football, from the teams involved to the traditions and histories they are playing for. You'll now be able to join in on the conversations, online or in person, that are becoming increasingly commonplace now that the game is picking up some serious traction this side of the Atlantic, incentivising bookmakers to offer even more opportunities to bet on this great sport.

The Super Bowl itself provides the perfect place to begin, being fairly easy to follow and get into, while being a suitably epic conclusion for long-term fans.

In 2023, you’ll be given the chance to bet on the sport's biggest betting event on February 12th 2023, when Kansas City Chiefs take on Philadelphia Eagles.

And just like watching the Super Bowl, betting on the NFL is easy for newcomers too, thanks to an exceptional variety of markets and so many great operators making them available. The future is exciting, but this sport can offer you more than enough to get involved right now.

WRITTEN BY Ben Gibson
View all posts by Ben Gibson

Ben has been writing professionally for over a decade. His articles are a great outlet for his inexhaustible supply of sporting facts and enthusiasm. He resides in Yorkshire, where his work is powered by the ever-present sound of a kettle.

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