How to Bet on Fantasy Football

Gambling on NFL football is a national pastime, and fortunately the NFL endorses betting on fantasy football. It is legal to place a bet on a fantasy team in many locations and leagues. Often the entry fees you pay to join a league go toward prizes at the end of the season. You can also bet on your own through a sportsbook in person, online or by phone.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Place to make bets
• NFL player and team statistics
• Money to bet

Bet for Real in a Fantasy Game

1. Make sure it is legal to gamble on fantasy football in your city and state or country. Some people consider it gambling to join a fantasy football league and compete for cash prizes, so be careful about what is considered legal. Consult an attorney if necessary.
2. Choose where to place your bets. There are many reputable sportsbooks online, such as Pinnacle Sports or Sportbet (see Resources below). Ensure that they accept the type of currency you plan to play with. Sportsbooks will accept your bet by taking a commission of your wager, usually about 10 percent.
3. Decide how much money you want to deposit into your new account with the sportsbook. There will probably be a minimum or maximum amount required to open an account and to wager. It helps to know how much you plan to gamble before you open the account.
4. Ask about fees. Some sites have fees for depositing amounts below a minimum or for depositing by wire transfer or cashier's check. The same holds true for withdrawing money that you win.
5. Develop a betting approach over time. Be realistic with your expectations. Even seasoned bettors do not usually win more than 60 percent of their bets. By paying attention to statistics and betting carefully, you will improve your skill at making a fantasy football bet.

Tips & Warnings

• Use the services of a handicapper if you don't have time to conduct extensive research and you do have extra money to spend. Handicappers use their own systems to develop winning picks and then sell their picks to the public. If you find a handicapper who is both skilled and honest, you could win more bets and realize a greater return on your investment.