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Middle

sports betting

Betting both sides of a game at different point spreads, creating a window where both bets can win.

Key Takeaways

  • 1Middling means betting both sides at different spreads
  • 2Creates a window where both bets can win
  • 3Maximum loss is just the juice on one side
  • 4Most valuable in NFL around key numbers

What is a Middle?

Middling is a strategy where you bet both sides of a game at different point spreads, creating a window where both bets can win. It's one of the most profitable (and rare) opportunities in sports betting.

How It Works

  1. Monday: Bet Chiefs -3 (-110) for $110
  2. Thursday: The line moves to Chiefs -6. Bet Eagles +6 (-110) for $110
  3. Total risk: $220 (but max loss is only $10 due to juice)

Possible outcomes:

  • Chiefs win by 4 or 5 → BOTH bets win (+$190)
  • Chiefs win by exactly 3 → Push on Chiefs, win on Eagles (+$100)
  • Chiefs win by exactly 6 → Win on Chiefs, push on Eagles (+$100)
  • Any other result → Lose one, win one (-$10)

Why Middles Are Valuable

Your maximum loss is the juice on one side ($10), but your maximum win is both sides ($190). The risk/reward is extremely favorable.

Finding Middles

  • Requires significant line movement (3+ points)
  • Most common in NFL due to key numbers
  • Bet the opening line, then look for movement
  • Works best around key numbers 3 and 7

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