Sports betting has become increasingly popular worldwide, and one of the most exciting ways to bet is through a parlay bet – or same game parlay betting – an option that allows you to combine multiple wagers into one.
So, if you are looking to learn more about same game parlay betting, this article discusses how to place this type of bet, the pros, and cons of this wager type, its legality, and more.
What is Same Game Parlay Betting?
One of the newest forms of parlay betting is Same Game Parlay betting, which is gaining popularity in the United States and around the world. In fact, according to ESPN, in the Super Bowl LVI, same game parlay bets accounted for 31% of bets staked at BetRivers, Barstool, and other US sportsbooks, prior to the start of the game.
First, let’s discuss parlay betting. It is a type of wager where you combine two or more bets on the same ticket with the aim of increasing your potential payout.
For instance, you could bet on multiple basketball games and combine the point spread, the total points scored, and the moneyline from each game into one bet. If all of your individual bets are correct, you win the parlay bet, which will pay out at higher odds than if you had placed each bet individually.
Now, Same Game Parlay betting is similar, but the difference is that you’re placing multiple bets on different aspects of the same game. For example, you could bet on the point spread, the total points scored, and the first scorer in a football game on a single ticket, and if all your picks are correct, you could win a substantial amount.
For context, here is an example of a successful Same Game Parlay bet:
- This Twitter post shows a bettor winning a Same Game Parlay bet on a basketball game between the Los Angeles Lakers and Memphis Grizzlies by playing a series of player props options and earning a payout of $100.
How Does Same Game Parlay Betting Work?
When placing a Same Game Parlay bet, the bettor chooses two or more different outcomes from the same game and combines them into one bet. For example, in a basketball game, the bettor could bet on the point spread, the total points scored, and the first scorer. In a football game, the bettor could bet on the point spread, the total points scored, and the first touchdown scorer.
To calculate the potential payout for a Same Game Parlay bet, the bettor needs to determine the odds for each individual bet and then multiply them together. For example, let’s say you bet $10 on an NBA parlay for a game between the Los Angeles Lakers and Golden State Warriors with the following two bets:
- Spread: Los Angeles Lakers +6 (-110)
- Total points: U227.5 (-112)
To calculate the potential payout for the outlined Same Game Parlay manually, we need to combine the odds for the respective picks. And the process for combining the odds is outlined as follows:
- Convert the odds of each selection to their decimal equivalent using the following equations:
For negative American odds: Decimal odds = (100 / moneyline odds) + 1
For positive American odds: Decimal odds = (moneyline odds / 100) + 1 - The odds for the ‘Spread’ option is -110, and that of the ‘Total Points’ option is -112; thus their decimal equivalent is calculated as follows:
Spread: (100 / 110) + 1 = 1.91
Total points: (100 / 112) + 1 = 1.89 - To calculate the combined odds for the parlay, you would need to multiply these decimal odds together:
1.91 x 1.89 = 3.61 - Then, proceed to multiply the combined odds by your bet amount, which, in this case, would be:
10 x 3.61 = $36.1 - Subtract your original stake to get the parlay odds and winnings
$36.1 – $10 = $26.1
This means that a $10 Same Game Parlay bet would potentially pay out $26.1 if both outcomes are correct.
Historic Examples of Big Payouts on Same Game Parlays
In 2022, Twitter user @BostonConnr placed a $25 4-Leg Same Game Parlay on two separate football games — the Las Vegas Raiders vs. the Jacksonville Jaguars and the Los Angeles Chargers vs. Atlanta Falcons game.
The four bets placed were for:
- Davante Adams to score 2+ touchdowns
- Travis Etienne to score 2+ touchdowns
- Austin Ekeler to score 2+ touchdowns, and
- Cordaralle Patterson to score 2+ touchdowns
All four possible outcomes were correct, even before the completion of the 4th quarter in both matches! And this resulted in a massive payout of $38,751.50.
Similarly, in December 2022, Chicago-based super bettor, Marco Piemonte, placed an impressive $31,000 wager on a 5-Leg parlay in games involving the CLE Browns, MIA Dolphins, JAX Jaguars, LV Raiders, and MIN Vikings.
And not only did he get all predictions right, but he also earned a massive payout of almost $2.9 million!
Twitter user @MontyParly probably took a quick trip to the future before he, in equally stunning fashion, placed a $500 bet on a 3-Leg Same Game Parlay on Marcus Morris props in a basketball match involving the Denver Nuggets and the Los Angeles Clippers.
The bets placed were for:
- Marcus Morris under 12.5 points
- Marcus Morris under 2.5 rebounds and
- Marcus Morris under 2.5 assists
Each prediction was correct, and he ended up walking away with winnings of $21,790.72!
What are the Advantages of Same Game Parlay Betting?
With the global sports betting industry reportedly reaching a market size of $231 billion in 2022, there has never been a better time for US bettors to sample same game parlay betting, which offers several advantages over traditional wagers. And below are some of the key benefits of betting parlays:
1. Bigger returns
This bet type offers the potential for much bigger returns than regular wagers, thanks to the higher odds available when combining multiple outcomes within the same game. This means that even a small outlay can result in a substantial payout if the bettor picks the right outcomes.
2. Long-term profitability
While Same Game Parlay gambling can be riskier than traditional betting, picking the right parlays in the long term can result in profitable returns. This requires careful research and analysis of the different outcomes, but with a disciplined approach, Same Game Parlay betting can be a viable strategy for making money from sports betting.
3. Fun factor
Same Game Parlay betting is a fun way for recreational bettors to enjoy the excitement of following multiple outcomes within one game. It offers a level of engagement that single bets can’t match and allows bettors to cheer for multiple outcomes throughout the game.
4. Different options available
Playing Same Game Parlays is not the only type of parlay wager available to sports bettors. Parlay cards can be found in casinos, offering a range of different options for combining multiple bets across different sports and markets. Teasers and Round Robins are other types of parlay bets that can be used in different sports and markets.
5. Increased flexibility
It allows bettors to create custom wagers based on their own preferences and strategies. This flexibility allows bettors to take advantage of their knowledge of the sport and the teams involved and to create bets that suit their specific betting style.
6. Variety of options
It is available for a wide range of sports and events, giving bettors a variety of options to choose from. Whether you’re interested in football, basketball, baseball, or another sport, there are likely Same Game Parlay betting options available for you to try.
7. Easy to place
Same Game Parlay bets can be placed easily and quickly through online sportsbooks and mobile apps. This makes it convenient for bettors to place bets from anywhere, at any time, and to follow the results of their bets in real time.
Same Game Parlay Betting vs. Same Game Parlay Extra
Same Game Parlay (SGP) betting has become increasingly popular in recent years, as it allows bettors to combine multiple outcomes within a single game into one bet, increasing the potential for big payouts. However, some sportsbooks have now introduced an even more advanced option called Same Game Parlay Extra, which offers even more flexibility and potential for profits.
Same Game Parlay Extra allows bettors to combine multiple single bets and Same Game Parlays into one big SGPx – for instance, you can have two SGP’s in one overall bet. This means that bettors can create custom bets that include a wide range of different outcomes, such as moneyline bets, point spread bets, total bets, player props, and team props.
By including multiple types of bets within a single bet, bettors can increase the potential for a big payout, especially if they are able to correctly predict the results of multiple events within a single game.
One of the key advantages of Same Game Parlay Extra is its increased flexibility. With SGP betting, bettors are limited to combining outcomes within the same game, which can be limiting in terms of the types of bets that can be placed. With Same Game Parlay Extra, bettors can include a wider range of bets, giving them more opportunities to find profitable outcomes.
Another advantage of Same Game Parlay Extra is that it allows bettors to hedge their bets and reduce their risk. By including multiple outcomes within a single bet, bettors can reduce the risk of losing the entire bet if one outcome doesn’t go their way. For example, if you were NBA betting on the a Same Game Parlay Extra bet could include a combination of a moneyline bet on one team, a point spread bet on another team, and multiple player props. Even if one or two of the outcomes don’t go the bettor’s way, they may still be able to win the bet if the other outcomes are correct.
Most Popular Sports for Same Game Parlay Betting?
While same game parlays can be placed on almost any sport, there are a few sports that tend to be more popular for this bet type. Here are six of the most popular sports for betting parlays on the same game, along with some examples of the different types of prop bets and individual props/sides/totals that can be included in a same game parlay.
1. Football
Football is one of the most popular sports for same game parlays and betting in general in the United States, and in 2023, over $150 million was wagered on the Super Bowl in Nevada sportsbooks brands only. Popular prop bets for that can be used to build NFL parlays include player performance props such as total passing yards or total rushing yards. Point spreads, moneyline bets, and totals are also commonly used for NFL parlays.
2. Basketball
Basketball is another common sport for Same Game Parlays, with there being several NBA betting options to choose from. Common basketball prop bets for SGPs include player performance props such as total points or total rebounds, as well as point spreads, moneyline bets, and totals.
The NBA Parlay shown above is from the match involving the Los Angeles Lakers and the Golden State Warriors, and it combines the following options:
- Los Angeles Lakers win
- Anthony Davis to score 24+ points
- LeBron James to claim 10+ rebounds
3. Baseball
Baseball is a slower-paced sport that can equally lend itself well to same game parlay betting. Popular prop bets for baseball include player performance props such as total hits or total strikeouts. Bettors can also include baseball moneyline bets, run lines, and totals in their parlay picks.
4. Hockey
Hockey can be a bit more difficult to handicap for same game parlays, but it still remains a popular option for many bettors, and the common prop bet options include player performance props such as total shots on goal, puck lines, and totals.
In the above NHL game involving New Jersey Devils and Carolina Hurricanes, the following selections were combined to produce a Same Game Parlay:
- Carolina Hurricanes to win
- Martin Necas to score 1+ goals
- Dougie Hamilton to hit 3+ shots on goal
5. Soccer
Soccer is one of the most popular sports for betting in the world, and it has also become increasingly popular for same game parlays in the United States. Common prop bets for soccer include player performance props such as total shots or total tackles. Other popular options include moneyline bets, spreads, and totals.
The Same Game Parlay shown above was on a match involving Manchester City, and the following selections were made to complete the parlay:
- Man City to win
- Over 1.5 total goals
- Erling Haaland to score at least 2 goals
6. Tennis
While less popular than the other sports mentioned, tennis offers plenty of same game parlay opportunities. Bettors can include prop bets such as total games played, aces, and various individual player props on their Same Game Parlays.
How to Calculate a Parlay?
Calculating a parlay bet can be intimidating, but it’s actually a fairly simple process once you understand the basics. To calculate a parlay bet, you’ll need to determine the odds for each individual bet and then use those odds to calculate the overall parlay odds and potential payout. Here’s a step-by-step guide to calculating a parlay:
Step 1: Determine the odds for each individual bet
The first step in calculating a parlay bet is to determine the odds for each individual bet that you want to include in the parlay, whether it is an underdog or an evens betting favorite. This can be done by looking at the odds listed by your sportsbook or by using an online odds calculator.
Let’s say that you want to place an NFL parlay on two separate games, and the odds for each game are as follows:
Game 1: New York Giants (-110) vs. Philadelphia Eagles (+105)
Game 2: New England Patriots (-120) vs. Miami Dolphins (+110)
Step 2: Convert the odds to decimal format
Once you have the odds for each individual bet, you’ll need to convert them to decimal format. As outlined earlier, this is a simple process that involves adding 1 to the odds and then multiplying by the stake.
Alternatively, you can convert the odds using an online odds converter or parlay calculator such as the Statistics Kingdom tool.
Game 1: New York Giants (-110) vs. Philadelphia Eagles (+105)
Decimal Odds Conversion
- New York Giants: 1.909
- Philadelphia Eagles: 2.050
Game 2: New England Patriots (-120) vs. Miami Dolphins (+110)
Decimal Odds Conversion
- New England Patriots: 1.833
- Miami Dolphins: 2.100
Step 3: Multiply the decimal odds for each bet
Assuming the parlay is for the New York Giants to win game 1 and the New England Patriots to win game 2, you would need to combine and calculate overall odds.
To calculate the overall odds for the parlay, you have to multiply the decimal odds for each individual bet together. For example:
Parlay Odds = (New York Giants: 1.909) x (New England Patriots: 1.833) = 3.500
Step 4: Calculate the potential payout
To calculate the potential payout for the parlay, you’ll need to multiply the parlay odds by your stake. For example, if you bet $10 on the parlay, the potential payout would be:
Potential Payout = Parlay Odds x Stake = 3.500 x $10 = $35.00
Is Same Game Parlay Betting Legal?
Same game parlay betting is legal in some states in the United States, while in other states, it is not yet regulated or is still being considered.
As of May 2023, more than two dozen states have legalized sports betting, with states like New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Colorado, Indiana, Michigan, Illinois, Tennessee, Virginia, and several others allowing same game parlay betting.
However, it is important to note that the specific regulations and laws regarding sports betting, including same game parlay betting, can vary by state. Hence, it is always a good idea to check the laws and regulations in your state before participating in any form of sports betting.
Tips for Same Game Parlay Betting and Strategy
With the ability to combine multiple bets into a single parlay, this bet type offers the potential for huge payouts for small initial wagers. However, in order to be successful with this type of wager, it’s important to have a solid strategy and follow some key tips, and below, we outline some tips and strategies for same game parlay betting to help you enhance your chances of success.
1. Focus on a single game
Same game parlay betting is designed for betting on a single game, so it’s important to focus on the game you’re most familiar with. By focusing on a single game, you can take advantage of any insider knowledge you may have.
2. Choose your bets carefully
When building your same game parlay, be sure to choose your bets carefully. Don’t just throw together random bets in the hope of hitting a big payout. Look for value bets and try to find bets that complement each other.
3. Study the stats
Before placing your same game parlay, take the time to study the stats for the game. Look at the team’s recent form, their head-to-head record, and any key injuries or suspensions. This will help you make more informed betting decisions.
4. Don’t be afraid to hedge your bets
It can be risky, so don’t be afraid to hedge your bets. Consider placing smaller individual bets on the same game to give yourself some insurance if your wager doesn’t hit.
5. Shop around for the best odds
Different offshore gambling sites will offer different odds on the same game, so it’s important to shop around for the best odds. Use odds comparison websites to find the best odds on your chosen bets.
6. Don’t chase losses
Same game parlays can be a lot of fun, but they can also be frustrating when they don’t hit. Don’t chase your losses by placing more and more bets in the hope of recouping your losses. Stick to your betting strategy and bet responsibly.
Best Same Game Parlay Betting Sites
Same Game Parlay Betting – The Pros and Cons
While same game parlays can be a fun and exciting way to bet on sports, it’s important to understand the pros and cons and develop a solid betting strategy to increase your chances of success.
Below is a list of the pros and cons that come with betting on Same Game Parlays:
Pros:
- Bigger payouts: Same game parlays offer the potential for bigger payouts than traditional single bets. By combining multiple bets into one parlay, you can increase the odds and potentially win more money.
- Variety of options: Same game parlays allow you to bet on a wide range of outcomes within a single game. You can combine bets on the point spread, moneyline, totals, and even prop bets.
- Fun and exciting: Same game parlays can add an extra level of excitement to watching a game. With multiple bets on the line, every play can have a significant impact on the outcome of your bet.
- Easy to place: Placing a same game parlay bet is simple and can be done in just a few clicks on your computer or mobile device.
Cons:
- Higher risk: While this bet type offers the potential for bigger payouts, they also come with higher risk. The more bets you include in your parlay, the harder it becomes to win.
- Limited selection: Same game parlays are only available for certain games and markets. This can limit your options and make it harder to find value bets.
- Lower odds: Because this type of wager comes with higher risk, the odds for each individual bet are typically lower than they would be for a single bet.
- Harder to win consistently: Because of the increased risk and lower odds, it can be harder to win consistently with same game parlays. This can make them less attractive to professional bettors who are looking to make a long-term profit.
Conclusion: Best Site for Same Game Parlay Betting
Same Game Parlays are generally available on the best offshore sportsbooks, and if you are looking to carry out parlay gambling on the same game, we highly recommend that you give the BetOnline platform a try.
With its extensive range of markets, competitive odds, and easy-to-use platform, BetOnline offers a top-notch betting experience for both novice and experienced bettors alike. Additionally, their generous welcome bonuses and ongoing promotions make them an attractive choice for those looking to maximize their winnings.
FAQs
What is a parlay in sports betting?
A parlay is a type of sports bet that involves wagering on two or more outcomes in a single bet. To win a parlay, all of the individual bets within the parlay must win.
What are the benefits of a same game parlay?
Some of the benefits of Same game parlays include bigger payouts, more betting options, fun and excitement, low minimum wagers, and the potential to hedge bets.
Where can I bet same game parlays?
Same game parlays are available at many online sportsbooks, including popular platforms such as BetOnline, DraftKings, FanDuel, and PointsBet, among others.
What’s the difference between SGP and SGPx?
Same Game Parlay (SGP) and Same Game Parlay Extra (SGPx) are both types of parlay bets that allow bettors to combine multiple wagers within a single game. The main difference is that SGPx allows bettors to combine both single bets and existing same game parlays into one larger parlay. Essentially, SGPx is a combination of SGP and traditional single bets.
Is it better to straight bet or parlay?
The choice to straight bet or parlay depends on the bettor’s individual goals, risk tolerance, and betting strategy. Compared to parlay bets, straight bets are generally considered lower risk, as they involve betting on a single outcome and offer a higher chance of winning. However, they typically offer lower payouts, unlike parlay bets, which combine multiple wagers into one larger bet with higher odds and potentially bigger payouts.
Are parlays better than single bets?
Parlays and single bets each have their own advantages and disadvantages, and whether parlays are better than single bets depends on the bettor’s goals, betting strategy, and risk tolerance. Parlays offer higher potential payouts with higher odds, but come with higher risk, as all bets need to be won. Single bets are lower-risk as they involve betting on a single outcome with lower payouts.
How many selections are in a parlay bet?
A parlay bet generally involves the combination of two or more individual bets, also known as selections or legs, into a single wager.
Victor Arum
Victor is a professional iGaming writer with 5+ years of experience creating quality and well-researched gambling pieces. Currently affiliated with Sports Lens, Victor provides expert insights and analysis on the world of sports betting. He creates content to help sports bettors make informed betting selections and potentially increase their gambling winnings.Victor is a professional iGaming writer with 5+ years of experience creating quality and well-researched gambling pieces. Currently affiliated with Sports Lens, Victor provides expert insights and analysis on the world of sports betting. He creates content to help sports bettors make informed betting selections and potentially increase their gambling winnings.View All Posts By Victor Arum