Prop Bet

Definition:

In sports betting, a prop bet is a wager on a specific event or outcome within a game, rather than the final score or winner. Prop bets can be tied to player performance, team milestones, or even off-the-field events (depending on the sportsbook).

They serve two main purposes:

1. Give bettors more variety by focusing on individual players or unique in-game events.

2. Create opportunities for specialized knowledge (ex. player stats trends) to be used for betting.

Real-World Example

NFL Game: Cincinnati Bengals vs. Baltimore Ravens

• Player Prop: Joe Burrow Over 1.5 passing touchdowns (–125).

  • A $125 bet would profit $100 if Burrow throws 2 or more touchdowns.

• Team Prop: Ravens to score first touchdown (+140).

  • A $100 bet would profit $140 if the Ravens score first.