What Is a Push in Sports Betting?
In sports betting, a push, or a “no action bet” occurs when a bet neither wins nor loses, resulting in a return of your stake. While it causes no financial losses, a push bet is not ideal for bettors and sportsbooks.
🔑 Key Takeaways
- Learn the impacts of the push in various types of bets.
- Explore different ways to avoid a push bet.
What Does “Push” Mean?
A push in sports betting, also known as a “no action bet,” occurs when a wager neither wins nor loses, leading to a refund of the original stake. It’s as if the game’s outcome didn’t impact the bet. This situation arises when the predicted result aligns exactly with the actual outcome, such as a team winning by the precise point spread set by oddsmakers.
For instance, consider a basketball game where you bet on the Cavaliers with a -5 point spread against the Mavericks. If the game ends with the Cavaliers winning 105-100, the result matches the spread, resulting in a push. In these cases, sportsbooks review the game and refund the initial stake, marking it as a push, tie, or void.
While a push means no financial loss, it’s generally not ideal for either the bettor or the sportsbook. However, bettors can apply strategies to minimize the chances of encountering a push, which we will explore further.
The Impact of a Push in Different Types of Bets
Understanding how a push impacts various types of bets is essential for bettors aiming to make informed decisions. Let’s explore how this outcome affects moneyline, over/under, and point spread bets.
Push in Moneyline Betting
While rare, a push can occur in moneyline bets, particularly in sports that can end in a tie, such as soccer. However, in most American sports like baseball or football, a push typically does not apply to moneylines since there is a clear winner or loser.
If a moneyline bet involves a tie, as seen in some rare NFL games, it results in a push, and the bettor’s stake is refunded.
Push in Over/Under Betting
In over/under betting, a push occurs when the total points scored match the predicted total exactly.
For instance, in a Lakers vs. Celtics game with a total of 220 points, if the final score is 112-108, it results in a push. In such cases, both teams’ bettors receive a refund, as the expected total was met precisely.
Here’s a table to further exemplify push cases in over/under betting:
| Game | Total Points | Final Score | Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lakers vs. Celtics (Basketball) | 220 | 112-108 | Push |
| Cowboys vs. Giants (Football) | 45 | 24-21 | Push |
| Yankees vs. Red Sox (Baseball) | 9 | 5-4 | Push |
Push in Point Spread Betting
A push frequently occurs in point spread betting when the final score difference matches the spread exactly.
For example, if you bet on the Cowboys at -3 against the Giants and the Cowboys win 24-21, the outcome is a push. In this case, as with over/under bets, you receive your original stake back since there was no decisive win or loss according to the point spread line.
Tips and Strategies to Manage Push Bets
If you’re looking to minimize the occurrence of push bets, consider implementing these strategies:
1. Compare Odds Across Sportsbooks
Shop around to find the best sports betting odds. Different sportsbooks may offer slightly varied lines for the same game, so selecting the most favorable odds can help you avoid pushes. For isntance, opting for -105 instead of -110, where available, provides better value.
2. Understand Key Numbers
Be mindful of common score margins like 3, 7, and 10 in basketball and football. Knowing these can help you predict when a push might occur, such as when a team favored by 3 wins by exactly that margin.
3. Utilize Half Points
Betting on spreads with a half point, or a hook, can help you avoid pushes. Many sportsbooks list player props with half points, such as 14.5 instead of 14, to prevent ties. If no hook is available, consider buying a half point. While there may be a small additional cost, it’s often worthwhile to pay -125 for a -2.5 spread rather than sticking with -110 for a flat three.
4. Research Team Matchups
Conduct thorough research on team matchups. Examining recent performances, injury reports, and head-to-head statistics can help predict closer games, reducing the likelihood of a push.
So, Do You Know How to Avoid a Push Bet Now?
By using our proven betting strategies, you will navigate the intricacies of push bets and emerge successful! So the next time you wager on your favorite sports, keep our push betting tips in mind to make smarter wagering decisions and limit the outcome of the push.
Ready to take your sports betting game to the next level? Well, now’s the time to learn more from our comprehensive betting guides and dive deeper into more advanced strategies.