Submitted by rsteel on
In a perfect world everyday there would be many games that have value. The greater total dollars bet over the course of the year the greater profit in absolute dollars when you have a positive return on investment as I do year after year. However realistically how many games on a given day can there be weaknesses in the line. Regardless whether it is zero games or ten games on a given day your bankroll and mental approach should be prepared for either scenario. Your focus should be on value not quantity.
Common mistakes that send sports bettors to the sidelines include chasing losses and being an action junkie. In other words they force marginal plays for the sake of action forgoing value and profits. Yes, the more plays the better because it creates diversification BUT those plays must have value. Betting plays without value with no edge is the same as throwing a dart against the board. It is a 50-50 proposition at best and eventually the juice will eat you alive.
One of the biggest advantages the sports bettor has over the sports book is the player can pass. The sports book is obligated to post a line on virtually every game. Use this to your advantage and only bet the games that have acceptable value. That is what handicapping is all about. Remember the national anthem is played somewhere every day.
Next week I will talk about the toughest and most important concept for sports bettors to grasp.