A money line bet is the simplest wager in sports betting: pick the team or player that wins outright. No point spread, no margin of victory — just right or wrong.

What Does "Money Line Bet" Actually Mean?

The term shows up spelled two ways — "money line" and "moneyline" — and every major US sportsbook treats them identically. The bet itself strips everything down to one question: who wins the game? DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, and Caesars all offer moneyline markets on NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, college sports, MMA, and soccer.

It is the starting point for most new bettors, and it is still one of the most-used bet types among experienced ones. Money Line Bet Explained: Read Odds, Pick Winners covers the full landscape if you want the broader picture first.

How Do Favorites and Underdogs Show Up on the Moneyline?

US sportsbooks use American odds format. A minus sign means favorite; a plus sign means underdog. Here is how to read the two sides:

  • Favorite (–150): Risk $150 to profit $100. The higher the number, the bigger the favorite.
  • Underdog (+130): Risk $100 to profit $130. The bigger the number, the longer the shot.
  • Pick 'em (–110/–110): Both teams treated as equals. Each side carries a small vig built in for the house.

For a deeper breakdown of every scenario, see How to Read Moneyline Odds: Positive, Negative, and Pick 'Em.

What Does the Vig Mean for Your Bet?

The vig — also called juice or vigorish — is the sportsbook's built-in commission. On a standard –110/–110 pick 'em, a bettor needs to win roughly 52.4% of wagers just to break even. That cut is there on every single bet, so understanding it matters.

How Much Can You Win on a Money Line Bet?

The payout depends on the odds and your stake. Heavy favorites pay less per dollar risked; underdogs pay more. An NFL favorite priced at –700 only returns $100 profit on a $700 bet. Miss once and seven wins evaporate. Want to run the numbers before placing anything? Use the How to Calculate a Moneyline Payout Before You Bet tool.

Is a Money Line Bet Better Than the Point Spread?

Neither is universally better. The moneyline is simpler — you just need the winner. The spread demands a margin of victory. Backing a big favorite on the moneyline ties up a lot of cash for a small return, while the spread might pay closer to even money on the same team. Check out Moneyline vs Point Spread: Key Differences Every Bettor Should Know for a direct comparison.

Does a Moneyline Bet Cover Overtime?

In most standard markets, yes. Unless the sportsbook labels it "regulation only," the final score after overtime determines the result. One exception worth knowing: some soccer markets offer a 3-way moneyline, which includes a draw option and does not extend to extra time.

Where Is Money Line Betting Legal?

Online and mobile sports betting is live in 38+ states plus Washington D.C. as of 2025. California, Texas, Georgia, Alabama, and Florida do not have legal online markets. Minimum age is 21 in most states, though a handful permit wagering at 18. See the full breakdown at Where Is Moneyline Betting Legal? State-by-State Overview. Must be 21+ (18+ in select states). Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.

Ready to Place Your First Money Line Bet?

Once you understand the odds, the next step is picking a licensed app and placing the wager itself. How to Place a Moneyline Bet on a Legal Sportsbook App walks through the process step by step. If you want to compare platforms first, Best Sportsbooks for Moneyline Betting: DraftKings, FanDuel & More lays out the options side by side.

A money line bet stays relevant no matter how experienced you get. Master the basics here and the rest of sports betting opens up fast.