Prop bets let you wager on specific events within a game rather than just the final outcome — they're one of the most popular and fastest-growing bet types in modern sports betting.
Once you understand how props work, you'll see them everywhere and realize they can be one of the most research-friendly bet types available.
What Is a Prop Bet?
A proposition bet (prop) is a wager on a specific occurrence, statistic, or event within a game. Instead of betting on who wins, you might bet on:
- How many yards Patrick Mahomes throws for
- Whether a specific player scores the first touchdown
- Whether a pitcher strikes out more or fewer than 6.5 batters
- How many three-pointers Stephen Curry makes
Props exist across virtually every sport and cover everything from game-level events to specific player performances.
Types of Prop Bets
Player props — the most popular category. These are Over/Under bets on individual player statistics:
- NFL: passing yards, rushing yards, receiving yards, touchdowns
- NBA: points, rebounds, assists, three-pointers
- MLB: strikeouts, hits, total bases
- NHL: shots on goal, saves, goals
Game props — bets on specific events within the game (not tied to a single player):
- Will there be overtime?
- What will the first score of the game be?
- Will both teams score in the first quarter?
Team props — Over/Under on team-level stats:
- Total rushing yards for one team
- First team to score 20 points
Novelty props — common around major events (Super Bowl, awards shows):
- Coin flip result
- Length of the national anthem
- Award winner's acceptance speech length
Why Props Can Offer Better Value
Sportsbooks spend enormous resources setting spreads and moneylines for high-profile games. Player props — especially in lower-profile games and sports — sometimes receive less precise pricing, creating value for prepared bettors.
Researching injury reports, recent usage trends, and matchup-specific factors can give you an edge in player prop markets.
Track all your prop bets in Oddible and compare your prop performance against your spread and moneyline results to find your true edge.
