Pick'em: A Bettor's Guide to Evenly Matched Contests

What is a Pick'em?

A Pick'em (often abbreviated as PK) is a term used in sports betting to describe a game or event where two opposing teams or players are considered to be evenly matched. In such a scenario, the sportsbook does not assign a point spread, meaning neither side is favored to win by a certain margin of points. Instead, bettors are tasked with a straightforward proposition: simply pick the winner. If the team you bet on wins the game, your bet is successful.

This type of wager is common in sports like football, basketball, and hockey, where point spreads are a popular way to level the playing field between a favorite and an underdog. When a game is designated as a Pick'em, it signals that the oddsmakers believe both teams have an equal chance of victory, making it a true test of a bettor's ability to predict the outright winner.

How It Works

In a Pick'em scenario, the moneyline odds for both teams will be very close, typically hovering around -110 for each side. This means that for every $110 you wager, you stand to win $100. The small difference between the amount wagered and the potential winnings represents the sportsbook's commission, also known as the "juice" or "vig."

To place a Pick'em bet, you simply select the team you believe will win the game. There are no point spreads to cover or complex calculations to consider. If your chosen team emerges victorious, you win your bet. If they lose, you lose your wager. In the rare event of a tie (in sports where that is a possible outcome), the bet is typically considered a "push," and your original stake is refunded.

Example

Let's consider a hypothetical NFL matchup between the Green Bay Packers and the Chicago Bears. The sportsbooks have analyzed the game and determined that both teams are so evenly matched that they have declared it a Pick'em. The moneyline odds for both teams are set at -110.

You, as the bettor, decide to wager $110 on the Green Bay Packers to win. If the Packers win the game by any score, you will receive a payout of $210 ($110 of your original stake plus $100 in winnings). However, if the Bears win the game, you will lose your $110 wager.

Why It Matters

Pick'em games are significant for several reasons. For novice bettors, they offer a simple and accessible entry point into the world of sports betting. Without the added complexity of point spreads, new bettors can focus on the fundamental aspect of picking a winner.

For experienced bettors, Pick'em games present a unique challenge. They require a deep understanding of the teams involved, including their recent performance, head-to-head history, and any potential injuries or other factors that could influence the outcome. In a Pick'em, there is no margin for error; your analysis must be sharp enough to identify the team with the slight edge.

Furthermore, Pick'em games can often provide excellent value for astute bettors. When the public is heavily favoring one side of a Pick'em, the odds may shift slightly to entice more action on the other side. A savvy bettor who has done their homework may be able to capitalize on these line movements and find favorable odds on a team they believe has a strong chance of winning.

In conclusion, a Pick'em is a fascinating and challenging aspect of sports betting. It represents a true test of a bettor's handicapping skills and offers a pure and simple way to wager on the outcome of a game. Whether you are a seasoned pro or a newcomer to the world of sports betting, understanding the nuances of a Pick'em is an essential part of a well-rounded gambling education.