Same-game parlays are where the excitement really kicks in. Instead of picking results from multiple games, you’re zeroing in on one NFL matchup and combining several bets from that game into one wager. The payoff? You can get larger payouts by linking several related outcomes that all hinge on the same game. However, just like with any parlay, it’s important to build it strategically—throwing in too many risky bets can cause everything to fall apart.
So how do you approach same-game parlays in a way that increases your odds of winning while still getting the big payout? Let’s dive into the tactics that can make these types of bets a valuable part of your NFL betting strategy.
What Is a Same-Game Parlay?
A same-game parlay allows you to combine multiple bets from the same NFL game into a single wager. For example, in a game between the Packers and Bears, you could bet on:
- The Packers to win (moneyline)
- Aaron Rodgers to throw over 250 passing yards
- The total points to go over 45
The key here is that these bets are all tied to the outcome of the same game. That means your selections should complement each other rather than contradict. For example, if you’re betting on a team to win, you might also want to bet on their star player having a big performance, because the two outcomes are related.
The Key to Winning Same-Game Parlays: Correlation
Correlation is everything in same-game parlays. This means that the bets you combine should have a logical connection, increasing the chances of them all hitting together. For instance, if you believe the Bucs will dominate a game, betting on Tom Brady to go over his passing yards and his top receiver to hit their yardage prop makes sense. If one of those bets hits, it’s likely the others will too.
1. Pair Moneyline or Spread Bets with Player Props
One of the most popular strategies is to combine a team’s moneyline or spread bet with player props. If you expect a team to win big, there’s a good chance that key players will hit their performance targets.
- Example: If you’re betting on the Chiefs to cover the spread, it could make sense to also bet on Patrick Mahomes to go over his passing yards and for Travis Kelce to hit his reception prop.
Tip: The idea is to find synergy between your bets—if one thing happens, it increases the likelihood of the other bets hitting as well.
2. Totals and Game Flow
Another strong approach to same-game parlays is combining the total points line with player or team performance bets. If you’re betting on a game to go over the total, it usually means both offenses will have strong performances, which makes betting on offensive player props a smart move.
- Example: Let’s say you’re betting on a game between the Bills and Ravens to go over 50 points. You could combine this with betting on Josh Allen to throw for over 300 yards and Stefon Diggs to score a touchdown.
Tip: Make sure the bets support each other. If you’re betting on a low-scoring game, don’t bet on a player to rack up massive yardage unless you’re targeting a defensive struggle where one player dominates.
3. Leverage Team Strengths and Weaknesses
Look for mismatches between teams, and use that information to build your same-game parlay. If one team has a weak secondary, you might bet on their opponent’s quarterback to throw for a lot of yards, along with one of his receivers hitting their over on receptions.
- Example: If the Cowboys are playing a team with a shaky pass defense, you could bet on Dak Prescott to go over his passing yards and CeeDee Lamb to hit his receiving yard prop.
Tip: Pay attention to injuries and weather conditions. A key injury in the secondary or rough weather that could favor the running game might make a big difference in how you build your parlay.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid in Same-Game Parlays
1. Overloading on Bets
It’s easy to get carried away and start stacking too many bets in a same-game parlay. While it’s tempting to keep adding legs for a bigger payout, each additional bet decreases your chances of winning. Keep it focused—2 to 4 well-correlated bets will give you a much better shot at success than a long-shot 6-leg parlay.
2. Betting Against Your Own Picks
The last thing you want to do is place a bet that contradicts the rest of your parlay. If you’re betting on a team to win big, it doesn’t make sense to bet on a player from the opposing team to have a standout performance. Make sure each leg of your parlay supports the overall outcome you’re betting on.
3. Ignoring Game Flow
If you’re betting on the total points, don’t forget to consider how the game is likely to play out. Is this a matchup between two high-scoring teams, or will one team dominate the time of possession and grind out a low-scoring win? Match your props and bets to how the game is expected to flow.
Best Markets to Include in a Same-Game Parlay
1. Moneyline or Spread with a Quarterback Prop
Betting on a team to win or cover the spread goes hand-in-hand with betting on their quarterback to perform well. This is a classic same-game parlay strategy because if the team wins, there’s a good chance the quarterback played a major role in that success.
2. Total Points with Key Player Props
If you’re betting on a high-scoring game, it makes sense to pair this with player props from key offensive players. The more points scored, the more likely that top players will rack up big numbers.
3. Running Back Props in a Run-Heavy Game
In games where one team is expected to dominate and run out the clock, betting on a running back’s yardage prop can provide great value. Combine this with a bet on the spread or the under, as these games tend to be lower scoring and dominated by time of possession.
Final Takeaways on Same-Game Parlays
Same-game parlays can offer big payouts, but they also require smart planning. By focusing on correlated outcomes, managing your number of bets, and paying attention to team strengths and game flow, you can build parlays that give you a better chance of cashing in.
- Use correlated bets: Combine bets that logically support each other.
- Limit your legs: Stick to 2-4 bets for better odds of winning.
- Pay attention to matchups: Focus on team strengths and weaknesses to inform your picks.
By strategically combining multiple markets from the same game, you can take advantage of specific scenarios and create valuable opportunities for bigger wins.