Why Same Game Parlays Are Bad Bets

Same Game Parlays, or SGPs, are a series of bets on individual outcomes within the same game that can yield huge payouts. While these wagers may seem risky, they are popular because they drive betting volume and increase engagement while padding the sportsbooks’ bottom lines. Despite these advantages, same game parlays are often bad bets for bettors, so it’s important to understand why before placing one.

SGPs are limited to a single game, but this can be an advantage for sports bettors who like to do their research on a specific event. For example, an MLB SGP could include bets on the winner of the game, total points, and player props, all based on a particular team or player. This approach limits bettors’ exposure to the same event and gives them a better chance of winning a large payout.

The biggest reason SGPs are so popular is because of their high variance. While these bets offer massive payouts, most bettors will lose their wagers more often than they win them. This is especially true if they bet on a multiple-leg SGP, which can lead to a significant loss if even one of the legs loses. The structure of SGPs works in favor of the sportsbooks, and that’s why they aggressively promote them.

Another major drawback of SGPs is that the odds are adjusted to reflect the correlation between the bets. This means that the overall probability of winning an SGP is lower than a traditional parlay with the same number of legs. In other words, the sportsbooks are trying to balance the risk of the bets with their potential rewards.

Nevertheless, same game parlays are still extremely popular because of their high payouts and low expected value. If you’re comfortable with the risk and willing to place bets on a lot of different events, SGPs can be a great way to maximize your profits. However, it’s always important to remember that betting is supposed to be fun, so you shouldn’t bet more than you can afford to lose.

To make a Same Game Parlay, log into Sportsbook via the app or mobile web and select an event with the SGP logo. You can then select the bets you want to include in your SGP on the Event tab or game page. When the event is over, your SGP will be settled based on the results of the remaining legs. If a leg becomes voided, the SGP will settle at the odds of the next available leg. The odds of the remaining legs will be displayed on your bet slip. You can also edit your SGP by removing or adding new bets to your bet slip. If you’re unsure of how to set up an SGP, consult the Sportsbook’s FAQ for more information.