Team Clark vs. Team Collier Preview & Prediction (July 19, 2025)
The star-studded showdown will take place without Caitlin Clark’s sensational presence on the court. It would be a big miss, as Caitlin Clark won’t come up against Team Collider in their WNBA All-Star clash, especially when the match is going down in front of her home crowd in Indiana. Her absence has hit her team hard, as the team has slipped even lower as the underdogs in the match. But there is still no lack of star power to bring us an epic showdown.
Last year, the WNBA vs. Team USA gave us a thriller that went as high as 226. For the regular WNBA game, 190 to 200 is considered high. As such, projections put this clash at over 250, even with Caitlin Clark on the sidelines. Team Collier has a stacked roster that would certainly give us a high-scoring match with plenty of rookie-veteran play dynamics to watch out for.
Betting-wise, the market might gravitate towards an under against the 250 mark. We expect the match to start in a relaxed manner before gaining momentum in the later rounds.
We’ll dig deeper into the team dynamics and give you a head-to-head comparison of the clash.
Game Details
- Matchup: Team Clark vs. Team Collier
- Date & Time: Saturday, July 19, 8:30 pm ET
- Venue: Gainbridge Fieldhouse, Indianapolis, IN
- How to Watch: ABC, WNBA League Pass
- Key Player Replacements: Brittney Sykes for injured Caitlin Clark and Brionna Jones for injured Satou Sabally (all in Team Clark)
Team Form and Momentum
Each of the two teams offer something very different. Check out their current form below.
Team Clark
As mentioned earlier, Team Clark isn’t lacking in star power even with Caitlin Clark’s absence. The team still boasts offensive firepower with A’ja Wilson as the leading scorer. A’ja Wilson has stellar stats for 2025, returning with 34 points, 16 rebounds, 4 assists, and 2 blocks to help the Aces beat the Valkyries. This game happened after she left Tuesday’s game because of a wrist injury and missed Thursday’s match against Washington as well.
Sabrina Ionescu is currently seventh on the preseason rankings with an average career-high 19.4 points per game. She made 34 points back-to-back in June and, for the all-star clash, remains a threat. The WNBA star’s intensity and efficiency have been crucial in keeping New York on track so far.
Then, we have rookies like Angel Reese, who remain a threat to Team Collier despite their experience level.
Team Collier
Team Collier has the edge in terms of experience. The team boasts stars like Napheesa Collier herself and Breanna Stewart.
Collier currently leads the WNBA in scoring. She leads by more than three points per game and is on the way to grabbing the Defensive Player of the Year award, as she averages a combined 3.2 steals and blocks per game as well. Since losing the MVP to A’ja Wilson, the star has established herself as the league’s best player and kept her team, the Lynx, as the league’s best team.
Breanna Stewart brings scoring power to Team Collier and will be one of the biggest threats on the court. You also have versatility from Paige Bueckers, who has been nothing short of stellar in her debut season in Dallas. She is the clear rookie favorite for the year and also ranks among the top 10 in scoring. Even better, she is one of the three players to average five assists in a game.
With Breanna Stewart on the scoring side and Napheesa Collier as one of the primary defensive anchors, Team Clark has their work cut out for them. Team Collier brings both experience and the edge in rebounding. Still, both sides are capable of hitting 100+ PPG in an all-star setting.
Head-to-Head & Trends
Due to its uniquely drafted format, there are no direct H2H results for the teams as you would get in regular WNBA games. Instead, we have to fall back on past All-Star games. These games have reached an average of over 180 points, with overs hitting more frequently than unders.
When it comes to the trends, past All-Star games typically went over. The key reason for that is the minimal defense from the teams, as they typically focus on scoring and creating an entertaining game.
The 2024 game saw Team WNBA upset Team USA 117-109. We expect a similar scoreline for Team Clark vs. Team Collier.
The Players to Watch Out For
Here are the key players to keep an eye out for in the game:
Player | Team | Key Stats and Role |
---|---|---|
A’ja Wilson | Team Clark | 27.2 PPG, 11.9 RPG; dominant scorer and rebounder. |
Sabrina Ionescu | Team Clark | 19.4 PPG, 6.2 APG; elite shooter, potential MVP. |
Angel Reese | Team Clark | 13.5 PPG, 11.9 RPG; rookie double-double machine. |
Napheesa Collier | Team Collier | 20.0 PPG, 10.2 RPG; versatile leader and favorite. |
Breanna Stewart | Team Collier | 19.3 PPG, 9.0 RPG; multi-time MVP with range. |
Paige Bueckers | Team Collier | 21.9 PPG (college), explosive rookie guard. |
Betting Odds
Below are the latest betting odds for this matchup, courtesy of ESPN BET:
Market | Team Clark | Team Collier |
---|---|---|
Spread | +4.5 (-115) | -4.5 (-115) |
Moneyline | +160 | -190 |
Total | Over 258.5 (-120) | Under 258.5 (-110) |
Best Bets
Bet #1: Team Collier ML (-170)
Rationale: The team has four stars. It also has superior depth and veterans like Stewart and Collier. The team is more likely to overwhelm Team Clark, even with the latter boasting star power of its own.
Bet #2: Over 178.5 Points
Rationale: All-star games typically feature lax defense with high scoring, and we expect this clash to be no different. Also, recent overs have cashed out.
Bet #3: Sabrina Ionescu Over 18.5 Points (prop)
Rationale: For prop bets, Sabrina Ionescu hitting over 18.5 points seems the most likely, as she is a hot shooter in exhibitions. She is also most likely to shine for MVP contention.
Team Clark or Team Collier? Here’s Our Pick
Team Collier has a balanced roster that is not only fun but also high-scoring. Our pick for the match is Team Collier wins 98-92.
Even so, we pick Sabrina Ionescu to earn the MVP honors for Team Clark.
Holloway vs. Poirier Prediction & Betting Preview: UFC 318
Poirier Will come into this fight against Holloway as the winner of their last two encounters. He won one match (on February 4, 2012) by submission and the other (on April 13, 2019) by decision. However, Holloway goes into the fight as the clear favorite. He is the current BMF titleholder and will be looking to retain his title and grab a win against Poirier in what would be their last match.
For Poirier, a win at UFC 318 will be a perfect three-win record against long-time opponent Holloway. He brings knockout power, slick submissions, and veteran guile. But will those be strong enough to checkmate Holloway’s relentless volume striking and unbreakable cardio?
While the odds change, the current figures put Holloway as the betting favorite while Poirier is the underdog. We’ll review each fighter’s profile and make our tactical breakdown. Then, we’ll recommend bets based on what we think will most likely happen.
Fight Overview
- Matchup: Max Holloway (26-8-0) vs. Dustin Poirier (30-9-0, 1 NC)
- Event: UFC 318
- Date: Saturday, July 19
- How to Watch: ESPN+ PPV
- Location: Smoothie King Center, New Orleans, LA
- Start Time (Main Card): 10:00 PM ET (Prelims at 8:00 PM ET, Early Prelims at 6:00 PM ET)
- Weight Class: Lightweight (155 lbs)
- Title on the Line: UFC BMF
- See the full UFC 318 card
Fighter Profiles
Max Holloway
Max Holloway is not the same fighter who faced Poirier a few years back. He has grown, amassing an impressive record of 26-8-0. While that is still shy of Poirier’s record, Holloway has made a mark for himself when it comes to unbreakable pace and UFC-record significant strikes.
In the UFC 300 lightweight fight on April 14, 2024, Max Holloway proved his evolution both in strikes and pace. He also got himself a knockout win against Justin Gaethje, who also has an impressive record of 26 wins.
Max Holloway’s transition to lightweight full-time has also had a significant impact on his strength, pace, and agility.
Dustin Poirier
Dustin Poirier won’t go down easily, as his past performances are even more stellar than Max Holloway’s. The veteran holds UFC records for knockouts in lightweight and fan-favorite wars. On March 10, 2024, Poirier took the win in his match against Benoît Saint-Denis. He won the latter via knockout.
Max Holloway currently sits below Dustin Poirier when it comes to the number of fights won. Dustin Poirier has won 30 fights, while Max Holloway has won 26 fights.
While Max Holloway embraces the hype surrounding the fight, Dustin Poirier remains unfazed by the hype. As a veteran, Poirier would rather focus on guillotine subs and left hooks. And let’s not forget that he will take on Holloway on home turf. The home crowd’s cheers in Louisiana are certain to add an emotional edge to this encounter.
When it comes to being a threat in the ring, Poirier has a well-rounded attack structure. The veteran is experienced in submissions and power strikes and will likely bring these into the fight.
Tactical Breakdown
Holloway won’t be so easy to take down, as the fighter currently boasts a strong takedown defense of 71%. But, we won’t count so much on his get-up game, as he isn’t renowned for his wrestling or grappling escapes. We expect him to rely more on his strikes and movements to avoid being taken down or to recover quickly.
Poirier has the takedown experience on his side and holds the submission edge with his guillotine and BJJ. While he may excel early in the fight, he is more likely to fade due to his age and mileage. If that happens, then Holloway’s superior endurance will most likely give the fighter the edge he needs to win the fight.
When it comes to the psyche and momentum, Holloway is in for revenge against Poirier for the past two losses. To him, it will be a moment to regain the narrative and keep his lightweight title.
For Poirier, a fight at home is enough for mental fortitude. We also expect him to be more tucked into the fight as he looks to make the most of his last chance at capturing a title and becoming the BMF champion before retirement.
If Poirier uses the guillotine choke to push Holloway into submission, then that will be the perfect storybook ending to an adventurous career. But to pull that off, he has to find a loophole in Holloway’s takedown defense.
Betting Outlook and Odds
- Current odds: Holloway -140, Poirier +115 (via BetMGM)
- Implied probability: Holloway (58.33%), Poirier (46.51%)
Betting Corner: Our Top Bets
Bet | Rationale | Confidence |
---|---|---|
Holloway to Win by Decision | Holloway has the durability and volume strikes to get the scorecards screaming in an intense five-rounder. | 🔥🔥🔥 Medium -High |
Fight Over 3.5 Rounds | Poirier and Holloway are likely to lock into a tactical fight of their strength and skill differences. We don’t expect a quick finish but a fight that will last more than four rounds. Moreover, both fighters have made the stretch in their recent big fights. | 🔥🔥 Medium |
Poirier by Submission | All Poirier needs is for Holloway to shoot or get sloppy in his movements. With that, the veteran will likely jump at the opportunity to use his guillotine choke. | 🔥🔥 Low–Medium |
Holloway vs. Poirier: Who Has the Final Edge?
To Poirier, the fight is a chance to grab a title before hanging up his gloves. For Holloway, it is an opportunity to get back at Poirier for the two previous fights and also retain his BMF title. His recent form and pace have a high potential of offsetting Poirier, especially in the later rounds. However, Poirier’s experience in wars and dominance is not to be swept under the carpet.
The different approaches between the two experienced fighters bring opportunities in the method of victory prop bets. You will also find valuable odds in over-round prop bets.
Do you think this fight will be the perfect retirement gift for Poirier? Share your predictions and picks with the community in the comment section, as we’d like to hear your thoughts as well.
Our Final Prediction: Max Holloway wins via unanimous decision.
Poirier will likely put up a good fight in the early rounds. And he is less likely to catch Holloway at this stage for a choke. Holloway’s superior cardio, volume, and motivation will likely keep him in the game long enough for Poirier to edge out.
Ready to put your picks to the test? Check out the top UFC betting apps to place your wagers at and ensure fast payouts on your winnings.
The Secret to Successful Parlays: Strategic Bet Building
Parlays are like catnip to bettors. Why? Because they have big odds, small stakes, and they promise to turn $10 into $500. And that’s a super easy sell.
Sportsbooks know this, and that’s why they market these bets so aggressively. The truth is that most bettors lose. It’s not because they’re clueless; it’s because by their very nature, parlays are built to wreck you for just one bad read.
But they’re not unwinnable. All you have to do is stop building them like they’re a lottery ticket and start to think like a trader. With some smarter construction, like using correlated outcomes, market awareness, and basic restraint, parlays can go from reckless to strategic.
You are never guaranteed anything in sports betting (or life), but that doesn’t mean you have to keep torching your bankroll on bad parlays!
Keep reading if you want to find out how parlays can work with smart construction tactics; we’ll tell you everything you need to know.
What Is a Parlay Bet?
A parlay bet is one wager that links together two or more individual bets (called legs) into one combined stake. To win a parlay, every leg has to win; if any one leg loses, the entire parlay loses.
Because the odds of each leg multiply, parlays offer way bigger payouts than single bets, but they are also a lot riskier! Three standard point-spread bets at -110 odds (implied ~52.4% each) can be parlayed together by converting to decimal odds (1.91 each) and multiplying:
Example of a 3-leg parlay: Three -110 spreads → decimal 1.91 × 1.91 × 1.91 ≈ 6.97. A $10 bet multiplies to $69.70, yielding +597 or about a 6-to-1 payout.
The above example shows how the odds compound: a two-team -110 parlay (~3.65 decimal) pays roughly +265, whereas a three-team parlay (~6.97 decimal) pays nearly +600. The draw is obvious; for small stakes, you could see a huge potential return.
But, and this is a big “but,” parlays also increase the risk. Each added leg multiplies the house’s edge and slashes the true win probability. The gambler has to cheer for every pick: one missed game? That means a $0 payoff. Investopedia says that parlays “Are riskier since they comprise many individual chances but give a bigger payout if all individual wagers win.” They are an all-or-nothing gamble.
Why Parlays Usually Fail
Sure, parlays are really tempting, and that’s understandable, but the odds are heavily stacked against bettors. The math works against you: Each bet is usually priced with a built-in bookmaker margin (the “vig”). When you combine bets, you not only multiply the positive outcomes but also multiply the vig.
With standard -110 lines (~52.4% true win chance, 4.54% house edge each), a 2-leg parlay has only a ~25% win probability (house edge ~8.88%), and a 4-leg parlay falls to ~6.3% win chance (house edge ~16.97%). So, adding legs quickly crushes your chance to win. A three-leg parlay might promise +596, but its raw win probability is only about 12.5%. The compounding effect? It explains why parlays generate large profits for sportsbooks.

In addition to that face, only one loss in a parlay wipes out the whole bet. You can get almost every leg correct, and if you miss one? Busted. And because each leg carries the book’s margin, the effective house edge on a multi-leg parlay is enormous; it’s much higher than any single bet’s 4–5%. If you treat a 3-leg parlay as a single bet, the house edge can be seen as ~12.5% from the bettor’s stake perspective, and this makes parlays long shots, not fair wagers.
Common Mistakes Bettors Make
Given the steep odds we talked about? It’s really easy to make common mistakes like the following:
A lot of bettors think
but each extra leg makes the parlay dramatically harder to hit. Going beyond 2–3 legs turns a bet into a lottery ticket. And a 5‑leg or 10‑leg parlay is almost a guaranteed loser. Why? Because even if you think some picks are “sure things,” the odds stack up. The more legs you add, the lower your true odds of winning go.
Some bettors will pad their parlays with underdog picks or so-called “locks” to inflate the payout. But if you wouldn’t take a bet singly, you shouldn’t toss it into a parlay! If you wouldn’t bet [a leg] as a single, definitely don’t include it in a parlay! Mixing strong picks with one random longshot only multiplies risk without any chance of a decent reward.
Betting a parlay every day as if it were just another regular wager is not smart. Some bettors will chase their losses by building bigger or more frequent parlays, hoping to recoup some of their money. This usually leads to consistent losses. Parlays should be special, occasional plays; never your main strategy. The house edge looms large over every single leg, so daily parlays are only gonna burn through your bankroll.
All selections in a parlay have their own vig, and those really add up! Each additional leg increases the house edge and lowers your odds of winning. In practice, even a small bookmaker margin, like -110 lines,gets multiplied out, making parlays worse than a single bet that’s being played repeatedly. A lot of bettors forget about this compound vig and wind up just tossing away value.
Smart Parlay Construction Tactics
So, we’ve established that parlays are really hard to win. Got it? Good. But intelligent parlay design can tilt the odds slightly in your favor. The goal is to preserve upside but minimize your risk. What are the smartest parlay construction tactics that informed bettors use? The following ones!
1. Limit the Number of Legs
Keep parlays short. Industry analyses and sharps recommend sticking to 2–3 legs max. With three -110 lines, your win chance is already only ~12.5%; with four legs, it drops to ~6%. Most professional bettors avoid parlays altogether or cap them at three picks. Fewer legs means a higher probability of hitting, so it’s a safer balance of risk and reward.
2. Stay Within a Single Sport or Market
Limiting to one sport (or even one game) helps leverage your expertise and decreases the unpredictable variables. Sticking to a familiar league means that you can apply specific knowledge (injuries, weather, matchup history, etc.) across all legs. Parlaying across different sports or random games adds unnecessary uncertainty. When you concentrate on a single sport or theme, you also avoid schedule misalignment and guarantee that your insights mean something.
3. Use Correlated Outcomes (When Allowed)
Look for legs that logically reinforce each other! When one outcome happens, it increases the chance of another; you’re finding a positive correlation. In an NFL game, you could pair Team A to win + QB passing yards over. If Team A wins, it usually means that their offense performed well, making a big QB stat more likely. If a running back’s rushing yards over tend to align with that team’s moneyline? The linked bets work in tandem.
Warning: Always check sportsbook rules! Some “obvious” correlations are disallowed. If a team’s moneyline and its point-spread bet are effectively guaranteed to correlate (if the team wins outright, they likely cover even a small spread), most sportsbooks won’t let you parlay those.
4. Shop for Best Odds on Each Leg
Always compare prices across sportsbooks, as even small differences in individual odds multiply in a parlay! The same 5-team parlay could pay out +6531 at one book but only +4000 at another. On a $5 bet? That’s a $200 payout versus $326, which is a big gap. A tiny edge in each leg can translate to big gains on the ticket. Use line-shopping tools or multiple accounts to snag the best line for every pick, and a sportsbook-specific parlay calculator will also highlight which sportsbook site is offering the highest payout for your combo!
5. Avoid Heavy Favorites Just to ‘Boost’ Payout
You might feel like it’s a good idea to pad a parlay with an extremely likely outcome (like a –500 favorite) to bump the total odds as a near-certain add-on, but it’s NOT. The heavy favorites almost always carry extra risk (upsets can and do happen), and they don’t move the needle on payout as much as you’d hope.
We actually advise avoiding massive favorites on parlay tickets. The teams with large expected leads usually ease off late, which makes big favorites less sure. Plus, steep favorites have low true plus-odds; adding one leg at –500 might only raise your parlay odds modestly while adding a considerable chance of ruin. Only parlay picks that you really believe in; don’t slip a presumed “can’t lose” pick onto the slip just for a little increased payout.
6. Use Bankroll-Protecting Strategies
Keep each parlay wager small (just a few percent of your bankroll). Always look at parlays (and all gambling) as entertainment, aka a chance at a big score, and not as a main strategy. We advise treating parlays like scratch-off lotto tickets. They’re cheap, fun, and easy to control, and you should never build your betting bankroll strategy around them.
The smartest approach? Mix parlays with regular straight bets: save the parlays for when you have really strong convictions on multiple legs, and otherwise place normal bets where the house edge is lower. Never chase a parlay; if you lose one, stick to your plan and do not double down.
Advanced Tips from Pros
We like to think of ourselves as pros, so we put together some more advanced tips for all of you parlayers!

Using Round Robins for Safety Nets
A round-robin is like buying partial insurance on a multi-leg parlay. Instead of one big parlay, you make several smaller parlays covering all combos of your selections.
If there are three teams, A, B, C, instead of one 3-team parlay, a round robin would place three separate 2-team parlays (AB, AC, BC). This way, if one team loses? You can still win one of the two-team tickets. You are sacrificing some of the maximum upside for a higher chance of a partial payout. A round robin requires more total stake (you’re placing multiple bets), but it decreases the chance of a complete loss. For bettors who are worried about a single upset wrecking the whole ticket, small round robins can be a really useful tactic.
FYI: Bigger round robins get expensive: a 5-team “full cover” round robin has 26 bets, so use them judiciously!
Building Same-Game Parlays Strategically
Same-game parlays (SGPs) let you combine multiple bets from one game. Pros use SGPs to exploit game-specific insights. If you foresee a high-scoring NFL game, you could parlay Team A moneyline + over X points total + a player prop (like QB over yards) in that same game.
The key here is logical consistency: your chosen bets should fit a coherent game narrative. Allowed combos include “team to win” with that team scoring over 110 points, since one doesn’t guarantee the other. Another expert tip? Focus on positive correlations, like if you bet on a team covering a big spread, it usually makes sense to include the over on total points, as high-scoring wins tend to cover spreads in blowouts. And parlaying player props with relevant game outcomes (like a star’s points over with the over on the game total) are better for coherence. Again, make sure that a sportsbook allows the combination!
Parlaying Props vs. Spreads/Totals
Props (player statistics and special bets) can add a lot of value if used carefully and correctly. Props usually have less efficient pricing, so sometimes value does exist. But props can also be highly correlated, like if a quarterback’s passing yards directly tie to his team’s success.
If you use props in parlays, treat them like you would any leg: make sure that they mesh logically with the others. Don’t parlay an NBA player’s rebound prop with an unrelated football game! If you like a soccer game’s over, you could parlay it with a relevant player’s goal prop. Traditional bets (spreads/totals) are straightforward but usually just stack the normal -110 vig multiple times. Props do allow for some nuance, but also come with a higher vig or are more complicated. You should only mix them when a solid reasoning connects the two.
Real Examples: Smart vs. Dumb Parlay Construction
We wouldn’t talk endlessly about parlay construction without giving you examples! Below are two; one is smart and one is straight up dumb.
Dumb Example (5-leg parlay)
Suppose you parlay Team X ML (–250), over/under in a different league, Team Y –3 (–110), MLB over 8.5, and Team Z –6 (–110). This ticket spans multiple sports and contexts, includes more than three legs, and has a heavy favorite. It’s a literal recipe for disaster. As we said earlier, mixing sports makes it harder to focus, and with five legs? The true hit probability is extremely tiny. Adding that –250 favorite will barely bump the payout, but an upset would blow the whole ticket. In practice, a loser on any one leg (very likely) pays nothing. This example violates so many rules: too many legs, cross-sport, and an unnecessarily heavy favorite.
Smart Example (2-leg correlated parlay)
Now let’s build a simpler ticket: In an NFL game, you take the Baltimore Ravens moneyline (+125) and Lamar Jackson over 80 rushing yards. Both bets are from the same game and positively linked. If the Ravens win,? Jackson probably rushed a lot. The parlay odds might be around +265 (just an example), and your chance is well above the ~12% of a 3-leg shot. Even if each individual leg is a moderate pick, together they form a reasonable upside (+165 combined in decimal ~2.65) with a plausible shared theme. This two-leg parlay is way more sensible: there are fewer legs, it’s the same game, and logically correlated, making it a calculated “stretch” and not a longshot lottery.
Analysis
The first parlay is pretty much doomed from the start. It flouts basic advice: “don’t overload parlays! Only 2–3 legs max,” and “stay far away from longshots or ‘just for fun’ add-ons.”.
The second parlay? It follows the smart guidelines, and that means a limit of two picks, keeping them within one game, and using their natural correlation. While it’s still not a lock, the smarter parlay has a much higher realistic chance and a solid strategy behind it!
When (and When Not) to Use Parlays
Okay, so when should you use parlays? And when should you not? Look below for our basic guidelines!
Parlays can make sense as a speculative tool, but never as a staple. Ideal scenarios include when you have a genuine edge or promotion! If a sportsbook offers a parlay booster or insurance (e.g., “4-leg parlay pays +50% more”) or if you identify multiple underpriced picks across the board, then that’s a signal.
If each leg carries a positive expected value on its own, stringing a couple together can multiply a real advantage. Also, if you are betting small stakes and simply want a slim chance at a large payoff, that’s a reasonable entertainment use. In the above cases, treat the parlay as a longshot lottery ticket that’s funded by a tiny budget, and do your homework so that each selection is well-researched.
Don’t even go near parlays if you’re emotional or chasing losses. Don’t throw together a parlay out of desperation, as that frame of mind usually leads to adding weak picks just to boost the payoff, which never works out.
If you haven’t thoroughly researched each leg, a parlay is a bad idea. Likewise, skip parlays when “on tilt” (angry or unlucky); personal bias will only make you stack assumptions. If you find yourself making parlays hoping one big score will bail you out, you’re not betting anymore, you’re dreaming.
Parlays are fine occasionally and for small stakes, but they are rarely profitable as routine bets. Sharps generally focus on straight wagers and only dabble in parlays here and there, and only under special circumstances!
Conclusion: Turning Risks Into Smart Strategies
Parlays aren’t broken; they’re just badly built! We have seen way too many bettors throw five random legs together and hope for a miracle, and then rinse and repeat when it falls apart.
That’s not a strategy; at that point, you are donating your money to sportsbooks, and you can’t even use it as a tax write-off!
If you’re going to bet parlays, treat them like you would any high-risk trade: minimal exposure, smart combos, and absolutely no filler. You’re not in any way gaming the system by stacking bets; what you’re doing is multiplying every flaw in your process. But when the construction’s solid, the math checks out, and the risk is managed? That’s when parlays can start to make sense. But only as an occasional treat, not as a daily one!
Here’s a brief refresher on parlays and how to build (and not build) them:
- Parlays do indeed offer big payouts but have really low win probabilities, and every added leg cuts your chances and multiplies the risk.
- Most bettors lose parlays due to compounding house edge and an unrealistic construction.
- Shorter parlays (2–3 legs) are always smarter. Anything longer usually turns into a losing ticket.
- Stick to one sport or game when possible, as it keeps your edge tighter and the unknown variables lower.
- Use correlated outcomes strategically (when allowed) to raise the probability of multiple legs hitting.
- Don’t pad parlays with heavy favorites; they usually add risk without adding any meaningful value.
Line shop every leg—even small odds differences can make a big payout difference. - Use parlays as an occasional tool, not a daily habit. Keep your bet size low and avoid chasing losses.
- Round robins and same-game parlays can offer a better structure for risk-conscious bettors.
Want to test out some parlay strategies? You can take advantage of our free Parlay Calculator when you are building!
Baltimore Orioles vs. Tampa Bay Rays Prediction & Top Bets (July 18, 2025)
The Tampa Bay Rays are welcoming the Baltimore Orioles (AL East rivals) to Tropicana Field (officially called the George M. Steinbrenner Field) for a three-game series that kicks off on Friday, July 18. The first pitch will be thrown at 7:35 p.m. ET!
Charlie Morton is slated to start for Baltimore, and Taj Bradley will get the ball for Tampa Bay.
The Rays are back from a break and trying to stop a four-game slide. They’ll open the second half with these three games at home against the Orioles, and that’ll be followed by another series against the White Sox.
Baltimore went 4–3 against Tampa Bay in the first half, splitting a four-game set and then taking two of three. The Orioles dropped their last two games before the break, but they won three in a row before that, which ended a disappointing first half.
Who’s got the advantage in this ballgame? Keep reading to find out the game details, the latest betting odds, starting pitcher stats, matchups to watch, and our handpicked three best bets!
Game Details
- Matchup: Baltimore Orioles vs. Tampa Bay Rays
- Date & Time: Friday, July 18, at 7:35 p.m. ET
- Venue: George M. Steinbrenner Field in Tampa; the Rays are playing their home games there this season due to Tropicana Field damage
- How to Watch: MLB Network, Marquee Sports Network (CHC region), NESN (BOS region), MLB.tv
- Starting Pitchers: TV coverage on MASN2 (Orioles) and FanDuel Sports Network Sun (formerly Bally Sports Sun) for Rays games; streaming available on MLB.TV
Betting Odds
Ready to put some money down on this game? Here are the current betting odds and lines courtesy of DraftKings:
Team | Run Line | Moneyline | Total Runs |
---|---|---|---|
Orioles | -1.5 (+157) | +100 | Over 9 (-107) |
Rays | +1.5 (-193) | -122 | Under 9 (-113) |
Starting Pitchers Breakdown
Who’s on the hill for the Orioles and the Rays? Here’s who’s starting:

Baltimore: Charlie Morton (RHP)
Record: 5-7 | ERA: 5.18 | WHIP: 1.37
Morton threw six really strong innings against the Mets in his last start, allowing only one earned run. But his walk rate is up, and lefty hitters are squaring him up more and more; they’re hitting .287 against him. Morton threw six strong innings against the Mets in his last start, allowing just one earned run. That said, his walk rate is up, and hitters are squaring him up more frequently—especially lefties, who are hitting .287 against him. His inability to get ahead is forcing him into reactive counts.

Tampa Bay: Taj Bradley (RHP)
Record: 5-6 | ERA: 4.60 | WHIP: 1.32
Bradley racked up 11 strikeouts against the Yankees last month, but he’s had a hard time working late into games because of his inconsistent pitching. The Orioles got to him in their last meeting; they took advantage when he fell behind in the count. When he misses? He’s giving up barrels and extra-base hits to both sides of the field.
Betting Trends & Insights
- The Orioles are 7–3 against the spread in their last 10 as underdogs.
- The Rays are 4–6 ATS in their last 10 games.
- The under has hit in 7 of the Orioles’ last 10 games.
- Baltimore’s bullpen has really improved with some midseason moves.
- Tampa Bay has a .701 OPS vs. right-handed pitching.
Player Matchups to Watch
Who should you be watching in this game? These three matchups!
- Gunnar Henderson vs. Taj Bradley: Henderson has already homered off Bradley once this season; he hits velocity really well and hunts early-count fastballs.
- Yandy Díaz vs. Morton: Díaz has a career .300 hitter off righties this year; he has low whiff rates and good numbers at this ballpark.
- Jorge Mateo on the bases: He’s a constant baserunning factor against Tampa. Mateo already has multiple steals in this matchup and has pushed throws out of position with really aggressive jumps. When he’s active, the infield and pitcher both speed up, trying to contain him.
Our Best Bets
How are we playing this one? Look below for our three best bets!
Pick | Confidence | Why Do We Like It? |
---|---|---|
Orioles +100 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5) | Baltimore’s just playing better baseball right now, and Morton has been more composed in his last two outings. |
Rays +1.5 (-193) | ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (3/5) | This is the safer option in what could be a close game in the late innings. |
Under 9 –110 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5) | Morton and Bradley have both started to limit hits, and this total feels like it’s one run too high. |
Back the Birds: Why the Odds Favor Baltimore
Final Score Prediction: Orioles 5, Rays 4
The game will be close, but the Orioles’ bullpen will work their magic in the later innings!
The Orioles are getting overlooked here. They’ve been the more reliable team coming out of the break, and Charlie Morton’s recent outings show real signs of improvement. Tampa Bay hasn’t been covering the run line at home, and Bradley’s outings have been short when he can’t stay ahead or manage contact. The total also leans toward the under based on how these two teams have been scoring (or not scoring) in the past few weeks!
Best Bets Recap
- Orioles Moneyline (+100) ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆: The Birds have better form, more momentum, and a starter who’s trending up.
- Rays +1.5 Run Line (-193) ⭐⭐⭐☆☆: There’s an added margin in a close game with extra value if it’s low-scoring.
- Under 9 Total Runs (-110) ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆: Both teams have been leaning under as of late, and the pitching matchup supports it!
Boston Red Sox vs. Chicago Cubs Betting Preview & Prediction (July 18, 2025)
It’s the Red Sox vs. Cubs at Wrigley Field in Chicago for a matinee game. What’s on deck for the teams? Only playoff standing!
Boston is at 53–45, only 1.5 games out of the AL East lead. And the Cubs are 57–39, two games behind Milwaukee in the NL Central.
Lucas Giolito is getting the ball for the Red Sox, and he’s had back-to-back wins where he went 6+ innings with only two runs allowed in each, and he’s only given up one homer in his last four. Colin Rea counters for the Cubs, and even though his ERA is under 4.00 at home, he’s been tagged for 17 hits in his last two starts at Wrigley.
Will it be Boston or Chicago? Keep scrolling to see the game details, betting odds, main storylines, and our three best bets!
Game Details
- Matchup: Boston Red Sox vs. Chicago Cubs
- Date & Time: Friday, July 18, 2:20 pm ET
- Location: Wrigley Field, Chicago, IL
- How to Watch: MLB Network, Marquee Sports Network (CHC region), NESN (BOS region), MLB.tv
- Starting Pitchers: Lucas Giolito (BOS) – 6‑1, ERA 3.36; Colin Rea (CHC) – 7‑3, ERA 3.91
Betting Odds
Feeling out how to play this one? Here are the current odds and lines via FanDuel:
Team | Run Line | Moneyline | Total Runs |
---|---|---|---|
Red Sox | +1.5 (-192) | +108 | Over 8.5 (+100) |
Cubs | -1.5 (+158) | -126 | Under 8.5 (-122) |
Storylines to Watch
Here’s what we’ll be watching for in this midday ballgame:
- Giolito trending up, Rea struggling by the 3rd: In his last two starts, Lucas Giolito has gone 7 innings twice, giving up only 1 earned run in each and posting 17 strikeouts. Colin Rea has been tagged for 9 runs across his last 8.2 innings and was yanked before the 5th inning in his last two outings for allowing 3+ runs by the end of the 3rd in both.
- Head-to-head: Boston is 5–2 in their last seven meetings with the Cubs and has won 3 of their last 4 at Wrigley. And in those three Wrigley wins? They outscored Chicago 21–10.
- Momentum: Despite three sellouts, Chicago’s offense has scored only 8 total runs during their last four games at Wrigley, and they lost three of them. The top of the order has gone 7-for-41 in that stretch.
- Weather & Ballpark: The first pitch forecast shows 10–12 mph wind blowing in from right-center. That’s not great news for lefties like Devers and Bellinger, who are two of the main HR props on the board.
Our Best Bets
Okay, for this matchup? We like the following three angles!
1. Red Sox Moneyline (+108)
Our Confidence Level: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
Why Do We Like It?
Boston’s won 5 of the last 7 in this head-to-head, including 3 of 4 at Wrigley. Lucas Giolito has gone at least 6 innings in six of his last seven starts, giving up two runs or fewer in four of them. Boston’s bullpen owns a lower WHIP and better strikeout-to-walk ratio over the past 30 games than Chicago’s.
What to watch: If Giolito gets through the first two innings without giving up a run? Boston becomes the live favorite, and their bullpen can protect a narrow lead if they get one.
2. Over 8.5 Runs (+100)
Our Confidence Level: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
Why Do We Like It?
This setup definitely favors offense. Wrigley’s wind is projected to be blowing out around 10–12 mph, and that’s worth noting for power-heavy lineups like Boston’s. Rea has a 1.28 WHIP and has allowed 12 home runs in his last 9 starts, and lefties are hitting .465 off him. The Red Sox have a lot of left-handed hitters.
Giolito’s been the better pitcher, but he’s also allowed 5+ hits in 4 of his last 5 starts and occasionally runs into high-pitch-count innings that shorten his outings. The Cubs have hit right-handers really well when they’re playing at Wrigley.
What to watch: If either starter runs up a high pitch count or takes a hit the second time through the order? It could turn into a bullpen-heavy second half. Chicago’s middle relievers have a 5.40 ERA in July, and Boston’s pen has allowed a .264 opponent average over their last 10 games. Add in wind blowing out and two aggressive lineups, and this total has a real chance of landing north of 8.5!
3. Red Sox +1.5 Run Line (–192)
Our Confidence Level: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
Why Do We Like It?
Boston has either won or lost by one run in 12 of their last 15 games. Giolito has kept his team in games with good 5–6 inning starts, and the Red Sox have found ways to stay in it, and that’s usually by scoring in the middle innings to even up the score.
What to watch: If the Cubs don’t build a lead by the sixth, Boston’s bullpen gives this line extra value. Their relief group has allowed only 5 earned runs over its last 21 innings and has been stranding runners at one of the best rates in the league since the end of June.
How to Bet Red Sox vs. Cubs
Boston has the advantage on the hill with Giolito, and their recent success at Wrigley gives this angle real value. Offensively, both clubs have enough pop to push this total higher because of suspect middle innings that we expect to see on both ends.
Best Bets Recap
- Red Sox ML (+108) – ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
- Over 8.5 Runs (+100) – ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- Red Sox +1.5 Run Line (–192) – ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
Boston is worth backing outright or with the cushion. The total leans high if either starter gets yanked in early innings and the matchups line up as expected, so lock in your bets before weather impact and line moves come into play!
Final Score Prediction: Red Sox 6, Cubs 4
Giolito gives up two runs over five. Boston scores three in the sixth off Rea, then adds another run in the seventh. The Cubs get one back in the eighth, but the Sox bullpen covers the final four innings and hangs onto the lead.
Manny Pacquiao vs. Mario Barrios WBC Welterweight Title Fight on July 19, 2025
When you think of boxing legends, a name that’s sure to pop into your mind is Manny Pacquiao. The “PacMan” is one of the most iconic boxers of the past 30 years, and on July 10? He’s back, baby!
And who is he ending his three-year retirement against when he bobs and weaves his way back into the ring at the MGM Grand in Vegas? Mario Barrios. The 46-year-old PacMan will take on Mario Barrios, the 30-year-old champion, for the WBC welterweight title.
Pacquiao hasn’t fought since his 2021 loss to Yordenis Ugas, and that bout ended his run with the WBA belt. He wants to make history again by breaking his own record as the oldest man to win a welterweight crown, one that he set when he claimed a belt at the age of 40.
Boxing fans, rejoice! You’ll be able to watch this fight and bet on all kinds of outcomes. Keep reading to see stats, betting odds, a tactical breakdown, expert analysis, our picks for the four best bets, prop and alt bets, and pairing recommendations!
Match Details
- What:Manny Pacquiao vs. Mario Barrios – WBC Welterweight Title Fight
- When: Saturday, July 19; Main card starts at 6:00 p.m. ET; Pacquiao vs. Barrios ringwalks expected to start around 11:00 p.m. ET
- Where: MGM Grand Garden Arena, Las Vegas, Nevada
- How To Watch: Pay-Per-View on Prime Video PPV ($79.99 in the U.S.); Also available on PPV.com; Prelims for Prime members begin at 5:30 p.m. ET
The Stakes
What’s on the line? Oh, only both fighters’ reps and egos.
- Barrios is defending the WBC welterweight title for the first time.
- Pacquiao is going right into a title fight after almost three years out of the ring.
- A win would make Pacquiao the oldest welterweight champion in history, breaking his own record.
- If Barrios wins, he takes out a global icon and adds a marquee scalp to his record.
- If Pacquiao pulls it off? He resets the age ceiling and walks away with another belt at 46 years old.
Tale of the Tape
- Pacquiao (46): PacMan’s fight record is 72–8–2, with 39 KOs; he’s a legendary southpaw, stands 5′5½″, and has a 67″ reach
- Barrios (30): Barrios’s fight record is 29–2–1, with 18 KOs; he’s 6 feet tall, has an Orthodox stance and a 70″ reach; he’s been the WBC title holder since 2024
What the Experts Are Saying
Bernard Hopkins, the oldest man to ever win a world title at 49, believes that Manny Pacquiao still has enough in the tank to beat Barrios if it goes the distance. “Manny’s got the speed, he’s got the experience… Manny could beat him by decision,” Hopkins told talkSPORT.
He doesn’t think a knockout is likely, but he’s not ruling out a smart, technical win from the veteran lefty.
Chris Algieri, who fought Pacquiao in 2014, sees a possible path for the 46-year-old, but only if his legs don’t give out. In a CBS Sports feature, Algieri said, “If Manny still has that first step, if he can still fire one of those left straights… we’ve got ourselves a fight.”
Still, he flagged conditioning as being the biggest concern if the fight goes past the midpoint.
And then there’s Sugar Ray Leonard, who knows a thing or two about late-career comebacks, and he stressed the mental side of the equation. “If he concentrates on his mental strength… that’s going to be the difference,” Leonard said in a talkSPORT interview. He feels that the biggest hurdle for Pacquiao isn’t physical, it’s psychological.
Latest Betting Odds
Putting some money on this pummeling? Here are the latest odds and lines courtesy of ESPN BET:
- Moneyline – Mario Barrios: –275 (favorite)
- Moneyline – Manny Pacquiao: +210 (underdog)
- Over/Under 10.5 Rounds – Over: –135
Tactical Breakdown

Mario Barrios: Stands 6′0″ with a 70″ reach—he’ll look to keep Pacquiao at range using his jab and straight right. He’s comfortable fighting off the back foot and has logged full 12-round fights against Thurman, Ugas, and Maidana. Doesn’t have fight-ending power, but he stacks rounds with steady output and body work. He’ll try to slow Pacquiao down early by targeting the midsection and forcing him to reset.

Manny Pacquiao: At 5′5½″ with a 67″ reach, he’ll need to slip inside Barrios’ longer frame to do damage. His best weapons remain the lead left hand and quick in-and-out bursts. His southpaw stance is his best advantage, but his age, inactivity, and diminished leg movement all raise serious questions about his ability to close space or maintain output for 12 rounds.
Our Best Bet Picks
Okay, we’ve crunched the numbers and stats, and we’ve narrowed it down to the following four best bets!
#1 Mario Barrios Moneyline (–275)
Our Confidence Level: ★★★★☆ (High)
Why Do We Like It?
Barrios is 30. Pacquiao is 46. That’s a 16-year age gap in a weight class where speed and stamina are all that matter. Barrios is 6′0″ with a 70″ reach, and Pacquiao gives up 6½ inches in height and 3 inches in reach. Barrios has fought three times since Pacquiao was last in the ring, including a clear decision win over Yordenis Ugas, and he beat Pacquiao in 2021.
Bottom Line: Pacquiao still has skills, but at this stage, age, timing, and activity all lean toward Barrios. It’s the most logical side, and it’s at a workable price.
#2 Over 10.5 Rounds (–135)
Our Confidence Level: ★★★☆☆ (Moderate)
Why Do We Like It?
Barrios has gone the distance in five of his last six. His game is built on volume and control, not on straight-up knockout power. Pacquiao hasn’t been stopped since 2009 and went 12 rounds with Ugas, Thurman, and Broner. Even at 46, he’s durable enough that he probably won’t get walked down in the first few rounds.
Bottom Line: If Barrios doesn’t carry late-fight knockout power and Pacquiao doesn’t gas out? This is a calculated bet.
#3 Value Bet: Barrios by Decision (+200)
Our Confidence Level: ★★★★☆ (High)
Why Do We Like It?
Barrios has two career knockouts after Round 6. He beat Ugas and Akhmedov by decision. Pacquiao has lasted all 12 rounds in six of his last seven fights. Barrios isn’t likely to force him onto his back foot, and Pacquiao’s ring IQ will cut down on clean exchanges. This one hinges on Barrios staying active, controlling range, and banking rounds, and that’s something he’s repeatedly done in fights.
Bottom Line: This is the most probable result if Barrios wins, and it pays out double what the moneyline does with the same risk!
#4 Longshot: Barrios to Win in Rounds 9–12 (+400)
Our Confidence Level: ★★☆☆☆ (Low)
Why Do We Like It?
Pacquiao slowed down in the second half of the Ugas fight and hasn’t fought since. Barrios has late-round finishes on his record: Rounds 8 (Juarez), 10 (Velasco), and 11 (Karl). If fatigue sets in, Barrios can capitalize with volume and body shots in the closing stretch.
Bottom Line: It’s a low-percentage play, but it’s viable if Pacquiao shows signs of decline after Round 8. A smaller bet with a big payout if it lands.
Five Prop Bets & Alt Markets
#1 Total Knockdowns – Under 1.5 Knockdowns (-200 range)
Our Confidence Level: ★★★★☆ (High)
Barrios hasn’t scored more than one knockdown in a fight since 2020. Pacquiao hasn’t scored a knockdown in over five years and isn’t likely to press for one at age 46. Neither man brings a high knockout volume at this stage of their careers. This matchup is more tactical than violent.
Why do we like it? A controlled pace, mutual respect, and two fighters who can take a punch point to limited knockdown risk. This has good value if you expect a few explosive exchanges!
#2 Fight to Go the Distance – Yes (–105)
Our Confidence Level: ★★★☆☆ (Moderate)
Barrios has fought all 12 rounds in five of his last six bouts. Pacquiao hasn’t been stopped since 2009 and went the full 12 with Thurman in 2019 and Ugas in 2021. This bet pairs well with Over 10.5 and “Barrios by Decision.”
#3 Winning Group of Rounds – Barrios Rounds 9–12 (+400)
Our Confidence Level: ★★☆☆☆ (Low Value Shot)
Pacquiao slowed noticeably in the second half of the Ugas fight and, as we keep saying, hasn’t fought since. If he fades again after Round 8, Barrios has the size, stamina, and body attack to break him down. He’s finished opponents in Rounds 8, 10, and 11 before, and it’s usually by accumulation over clean shots.
It’s a long shot, but this window makes the most sense if Pacquiao starts strong and then stalls physically in the final four rounds. There’s a high upside if you’re betting on age catching up with PacMan.
#4 Method + Round Combo – Barrios by KO in Round 10 (+1600)
Our Confidence Level: ★☆☆☆☆ (Super Speculative)
This one is extremely speculative, but Round 10 lines up with the scenario where Pacquiao’s output drops and Barrios pours it on. It’s a common breaking point for aging fighters. Barrios has recorded stoppages in the 10th before, and increases his volume as the fight wears on.
This is only for long-odds chasers. If Pacquiao fades after Round 8 and can’t stay off the ropes, this is the spot where it goes downhill.
#5 Pacquiao by KO/TKO (+650 to +750)
Our Confidence Level: ★☆☆☆☆ (Very Low)
Pacquiao hasn’t stopped anyone since Matthysse in 2018. In his last two fights, he landed solid shots but couldn’t close. Barrios has absorbed really heavy volume from aggressive opponents and stayed upright every time—no KO’s. There’s no evidence that Manny still has fight-ending power over multiple rounds.
We don’t like this bet. But if you’re playing the nostalgia card and banking on a one-shot moment? Go for it (please do not go for it).
Strategic Bet Pairing Recs
Wanna build a bet stack? You should match your main play with correlated props that align with how you see the fight playing out! Look at the table to see how to line it up based on your reading:
If you’re betting on… | Pair it with: |
---|---|
Barrios ML (–275) | Over 10.5 rounds, fight to go the full 12 |
Barrios by Decision (+220) | Total Knockdowns Under 1.5, Over 10.5 rounds |
Barrios late KO (+900) | Barrios to win Rounds 9–12, Pacquiao to lose by TKO |
Pacquiao by KO (+1400) | Under 10.5 rounds, Pacquiao to win in Rounds 7–9 |
Will the Legend Rise or Fall? Our Prediction
The PacMan doesn’t need to prove anything, but he clearly wants to get back in the ring. But he’s 46 years old, hasn’t fought in close to three years, and was clearly outpointed by Yordenis Ugas the last time we saw him fight. Since then, Barrios has been active and had a convincing win over that same opponent. He’s younger, taller, and hasn’t been on an extended break.
Pacquiao may very well still have the timing to steal a few early rounds, but this fight favors Barrios in every physical category. He doesn’t need a knockout; just sustained output and control. If Pacquiao loses steam by Round 6 or 7, Barrios wins it.
Best Bets Recap
- Barrios Moneyline (–275): ★★★★☆
- Over 10.5 Rounds (–135): ★★★☆☆
- Barrios by Decision (+220): ★★★★☆
- Barrios to Win Rounds 9–12 (+400): ★★☆☆☆
This fight will likely go the full 12 rounds, and Barrios by decision is the most realistic outcome, with round totals and knockdown props offering extra value if you expect a methodical, one-sided scorecard. Pacquiao would need to have a near-perfect early execution to change this, and that’s hard to trust when your opponent is 16 years your junior.
Our Final Prediction
Mario Barrios def. Manny Pacquiao via Unanimous Decision (Scores: 117–111, 116–112, 118–110)
Barrios will control the range, win the majority of rounds, and there won’t be any big exchanges.
We’ll see a few bursts of the Pacquiao we know, but he’ll gas out in late rounds and have a hard time maintaining an output of shots.
Looking to enjoy this fight by placing a few wagers? Head over to one of the top boxing betting apps to be able to bet at any time and from anywhere on this matchup.
The Open Championship Preview & Betting Picks: July 17-20, 2025
It’s kinda wild that the final men’s major of the golf season is already here! Sure, there’s still some golf left on the calendar, but for 156 players? The Open Championship is their final chance this year to nab a major win.
The British Open is back at Royal Portrush in Northern Ireland, and it’s a course that spent years waiting to become a stop on the Open Championship rotation.
The tourney tees off tomorrow (July 17) and runs through Sunday, July 20.
The field includes over 150 players, with 15 amateurs and 11 former champions, but only one golfer will leave Ireland with their name etched into the Claret Jug.
Masters champion Rory McIlroy is the hometown fav, and he arrived at Portrush early. The overall favorite is World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler, and he’s already cleaned up in 2025.
Weather might be a big factor, as steady rain is forecast and winds are expected to hover around 10–15 mph most of the week. It won’t be brutal, but it will be blustery enough to impact club selection and mess up wayward tee shots. For those with the later tee times? They’ll get the worst of the conditions.
For golf lovers, this is a must-watch event, and we have a ton of betting odds—everything from smart value picks, props, long shots, and our picks for the five best bets! We’ve also got some smart betting strategies so you can decrease your risk.
Where to Watch & Follow Live
How can you watch the Open Championship and follow it live? Look below!
NOTE: Royal Portrush is on British Summer Time, which is 5 hours ahead of Eastern Daylight Time
U.S. Time: Eastern (EDT): 5:15 pm; Central (CDT): 4:15 pm; Pacific (PDT): 2:15 pm
Streaming & TV Coverage (U.S. times)
Streaming/TV Coverage | Times |
---|---|
Peacock: Early streaming and featured groups |
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USA Network: Main coverage block for Rounds 1–2 |
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NBC: Weekend network broadcast |
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Live Leaderboards & Social Coverage
- Official leaderboard:TheOpen.com and PGA Tour site
- Shot-by-shot tracking: Open app + website
- Social updates: Follow @TheOpen on Twitter/X and Instagram
- Pre/post coverage: Golf Central via Peacock & NBC Sports app
Favorites & Their Betting Odds
If you’re betting on this tournament, here are the listed favorites and the latest odds and lines via DraftKings:
- Scottie Scheffler (+450): The current World No. 1, Scheffler, has the shortest Open-winning odds since Tiger Woods in 2009
- Rory McIlroy (+700): Rory has the home course advantage, and has great recent form; he completed a career Grand Slam, and was runner-up at the Scottish Open
- Jon Rahm (+1200): Steady form on LIV, strong history on links setups, and past experience at Portrush make Rahm a serious contender
Other Players at the Top of the Board
- Bryson DeChambeau (+1800–2000)
- Xander Schauffele (+2500)
- Tommy Fleetwood (+2500–2800)
Smart Value Picks — Top 5 / Top 10 Extras
If you don’t want to bet on the outright winner, you have more choices! Below are the players who are sitting right below the favorites; they’re not long shots, and they’re less expensive.
- Tommy Fleetwood (+2500–2800): Fleetwood was a runner-up at Portrush in 2019 and is really strong in links conditions.
- Shane Lowry (+3000–3300): The 2019 Open champion at Royal Portrush.
- Robert MacIntyre (~+3500 / 35‑1): This breakout Scot had a really strong U.S. Open showing and excellent links pedigree.
- Viktor Hovland (+3000–3300 / 30‑1–33‑1): Hovland is back in fighting shape with recent podiums and a strong U.S. Open result.
- Collin Morikawa (+2800–3000 / 40‑1): A former Open champ (2021) returning to links setups in good shape.
High-Upside Long Shots
And then we’ve got the long shots. But they aren’t as bleak as the odds look; they’ve all either played really well at Portrush or won recently, so don’t overlook them!
- Adam Scott (80/1): Scott is really sharp off the tee and usually doesn’t miss cuts
- Tony Finau (175/1): Finished third here in 2019 and knows the course well
- Kristoffer Reitan (300/1): Just won in Scotland and is trending on the DP World Tour
- John Parry (700/1): Parry has local experience and a DP win under his belt
- Justin Rose (+8000): Rose is flying under the radar on LIV but has been scoring really well lately
Props & Matchups
If you’re gonna take a pass on the outrights or the longshots, there’s still a lot of value in the side markets! Look below for first-round leader odds, stat-based props, and a few matchups that look off based on recent play and course history.
Popular Props
- First-Round Leader
- Scottie Scheffler (+1600): When Scottie has an early tee time, he usually finds his momentum when the conditions are stable
- Shane Lowry (+4000): Shane knows this course inside out and opens majors well
- Most Birdies – Round 1
- Scottie Scheffler (+2200): He tops the tour in birdie average and usually posts early numbers when the greens are soft
- GIR Leader (Greens in Regulation)
- Jon Rahm (+1200): Rahm is a super reliable ball-striker, and he stays near the top in approach stats across recent starts
- Corey Conners (+1800): Conners is precise with irons and usually close to the lead in GIR on slower courses
Matchups to Watch
- Adam Scott (–120) vs. Keegan Bradley: Scott has a better track record in majors and is a stronger choice for this course’s setup
- Robert MacIntyre (+105) vs. Tyrrell Hatton: MacIntyre played really well at Portrush in 2019 and is coming off a strong June
- Russell Henley (–105) vs. Joaquin Niemann: Henley’s results in harder courses this year give him a slight advantage
Our Best Bets
Where do we think the most value is? Here are our picks for the five best bets!
Pick | Confidence |
---|---|
Scottie Scheffler – Win (+450) | ⭐⭐⭐ |
Rory McIlroy – Win (+700) | ⭐⭐ |
Tommy Fleetwood – Top 5 (+2500) | ⭐⭐⭐ |
Shane Lowry – Top 10 (+3000) | ⭐⭐ |
Adam Scott – Long shot (+8000) | ⭐ |
Weather Watch & Course Notes
The weather will have a say in who does well here! Rain is forecast for every day of the tournament, and there’ll be winds around 15 mph that could impact the shot choices of every player.
And Royal Portrush itself has its own challenges: there are really tight fairways, compact greens, and the infamous Calamity Corner makes even small mistakes hard to come back from.
- Forecast: Rain is possible all four days; winds around 15 mph
- Course layout: Par‑71, 7,381 yards; small greens, really deep bunkers, and unforgiving angles
- Main stats: Driving accuracy and strokes-gained approach are the biggest separators at Royal Portrush
Reduce Risk – Betting Strategy
Want to cut back on your risk? Put the following betting strategies into play!
- Balance outright bets with top‑10 or top‑20 finishes
- Use each-way bets on long shots instead of full outrights
- Mix in stat-based props to round out your card without overexposing on winners
Final Thoughts & Winning Predictions for The Open 2025
Scottie Scheffler is the best tee-to-green golfer, but the number doesn’t offer a lot of room. McIlroy has the most history with this course, a game that’s built for it, and the advantage of playing at home, but all of that pressure is baked into the price.
Fleetwood and Lowry give you a better return without sacrificing course fit. Both have shown they can manage Portrush and stay in control when conditions are harder. For top-10 or top-5 bets? That’s where the edge is!
And even though Scott and Reitan are further down the board, they still tick the right boxes; both are strong off the tee, capable in crosswinds, and have recent form that matches up with how Portrush plays when it gets wet and slows down.
Because rain is expected and winds will hover around 15 mph, approach play and distance control will take priority over length. Players who flight it low, hold greens, and are patient when scoring slows down are the likeliest to stick around.
Don’t stack your card around a single outcome! Mix in outrights with top finishes and performance props. If the win odds don’t match the profile? Then there’s usually a better number in matchups or stat markets. Once the first day is over, live markets will show who’s adapting to the conditions and who’s not.
Track how the tournament unfolds with live updates! Weather windows, pin positions, and groupings will change scoring patterns throughout the day.
Our Final Prediction
That’s a wrap on our Open Championship picks! We think Rory will take it, but don’t count out Scottie. Or anyone else. Golf is one of the hardest sports to predict, so be ready to react as the leaderboard shuffles.
- Outright Winne – Rory McIlroy (+700): Top-5 in strokes gained tee-to-green over his last four starts; grew up playing Portrush
- Top Value Play – Tommy Fleetwood (Top 5 at +500): T2 here in 2019, ranked top-10 in proximity from 175+ yards
- Best Long Shot – Adam Scott (+8000): Gained over four strokes on approach in three of his last five; hasn’t missed a cut at The Open since 2009
Best Bets Recap
- Scheffler Top 10: ⭐⭐⭐
- Fleetwood Top 5: ⭐⭐⭐
- Rahm Top 10: ⭐⭐
- McIlroy Win: ⭐⭐
- Finau Top 20: ⭐⭐
Be sure to stay up-to-date on the odds as they continue to change. If you’re looking for help understanding what the odds indicate for implied probability for each player, be sure to use our free betting odds calculator to give you a quick breakdown.
LA Galaxy vs. Austin FC Prediction & Betting Preview (July 16, 2025)
The Galaxy is finally showing some signs of life at home! Marco Reus seems to have found his feet, and the attack is syncing up around him.
But they’ll have to break through one of the league’s best defensive setups in Austin FC, a club that doesn’t crack and has one of the league’s most disciplined defenses.
This Western Conference matchup kicks off on Wednesday night at Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California.
There’s a playoff push happening; LA wants to hang onto its momentum, and Austin is trying to get a spot in the top four.
We’re gonna get into it all below! Keep reading for recent game form, betting odds, H2H and tactical stats, and our three picks for your best bets!
Game Details
- Matchup:LA Galaxy (3‑6‑13, 15 pts, 15th in MLS) vs. Austin FC (7‑8‑6, 27 pts, 9th in Western Conference)
- Date & Time: Wednesday, July 16 at 10:30 pm ET
- Venue: Dignity Health Sports Park – Carson, California
- How To Watch: Streaming live on MLS Season Pass (Apple TV)
- Stakes: LA needs a win so they don’t drop further behind in the West. Austin is two points off the playoff line, and they can’t afford to lose points to the bottom seed.
Form & Stakes
There’s no nice way to say this, so we are just gonna say it: LA has the worst record in MLS. Austin has obviously played better, but they don’t travel well. Below is how both clubs have recently played!

LA Galaxy
The Galaxy opened the season at the bottom of the standings, but has begun to recover when they play at home. Their recent 2–1 win over D.C. United showed a much better balance through midfield and made better decisions in the final third.
Marco Reus is still their most active piece with 11 goal contributions in 11 matches, and continues to force defenders out of position with his movement. They’re still 15th in the West, but a win would at least get them a little closer to the rest and give them something to build on.

Austin FC
Austin is right below the playoff cutoff and is coming off a 0–0 draw with New England. Brad Stuver kept them in it with eight saves, including two from inside the six-yard box.
Yes, they’ve been more organized defensively, their away record has been up and down; they’ve rotated results with only one clean sheet in their last five on the road. A win here would stabilize their spot in the Western standings.
Betting Odds
Betting on this late-night game? Here are the latest odds and lines courtesy of FanDuel:
Moneyline (3-way)
- LA Galaxy -105
- Draw +250
- Austin FC +280
Both Teams to Score
- Yes -150
- No +118
Over/Under
- Over 2.5 (-128)
- Under 2.5 (+104)
Head-to-Head Stats
- Austin is ahead in the last five matchups: 2 wins, 2 draws, and 1 loss.
- Their 1–0 win in April came from a second-half breakthrough after controlling most of the midfield.
- LA failed to register a shot on target that night until stoppage time.
- The Galaxy has allowed at least one goal in all five of those meetings.
Tactical Matchup
- Galaxy’s buildup: Reus and Fagundez drive attacking sequences, with Reus slipping between defenders to create passing angles in the final third.
- Austin’s setup: Compact lines with quick outlet passes through the flanks, and Stuver covers a lot of ground behind the back four.
- X-factor: Wolff’s control in midfield against Galaxy’s slower transitions will be the tone-setter here; if Austin wins those micro battles, they’ll limit LA’s ability to stretch the field.
Main Players to Watch
- LA Galaxy: Marco Reus creates through the central channels and leads the team in main passes since he joined the club; Fagundez delivers from wide areas and draws fouls in more advanced spots.
- Austin FC: Brad Stuver has made 17 saves in his last three appearances and controls his box really well when he’s under pressure; Owen Wolff links play between the back line and front three, pushing the ball forward through narrow gaps.
Injury & Lineup Updates
- LA Galaxy: As of publication, there are no reported absences. Expect a front three of Reus, Fagundez, and Ramirez, so there’ll be pressure and creative play up and through the middle.
- Austin FC: They’re 100% defensively. Stuver starts in goal, a back four in front, and Wolff runs midfield transitions from the center.
Our Best Bets
Ok, so where is the value for this one? Based on the most recent trends, team setups, and scoring patterns, here are our three best bets!
Pick | Rationale | Confidence |
---|---|---|
Moneyline – LA Galaxy to win | Better form at home, Reus is creating chances, and Austin has lost 4 of their last 5. | Medium |
Both Teams to Score – Yes | LA allows a lot but generates enough to trade goals; Austin has found the net in 6 of their last 7. | High |
Correct Score – 2-1 Galaxy | Galaxy has finished with this score in 2 of their last 3 at home; Austin usually stays within reach. | High |
Match Prediction
Final Score Prediction: LA Galaxy 2 – 1 Austin FC
LA is still rock bottom in the standings, but this matchup gives them a chance to take points from a playoff hopeful. Reus has given the attack some structure, and the Galaxy have looked a lot more decisive in the final third at home.
Austin doesn’t concede a lot of space, and Stuver keeps bailing them out when the back line bends, but their control diminishes when they’re pressed for long stretches.
Best Bets Recap
- Both Teams to Score: High confidence
- LA Galaxy Moneyline: Medium confidence
- Correct Score: 2–1 Galaxy — Medium confidence
Watch to see how the midfield shapes up before you lock in any live plays, as it can change in a heartbeat! And, as always, gamble responsibly.
We think it’ll be close, but you should see for yourself and watch it if you’re up late!
Understanding Payout Speed: The True Measure of Casino Trustworthiness
What is the absolute quickest way to lose the trust of an online gambler? That’s easy! Slow payouts.
We’re talking turtle slow. Slug slow. Nothing kills the mood of winning money faster than not being able to get that money! And you shouldn’t have to wait.
In the world of online casinos, payout speed is so much more than an “oh, that’s nice!” It’s an all-important trust signal that is a main influencer of how players perceive a gambling site’s overall credibility. If a site drags its feet in paying out? Players will wonder what’s going on. Are there cash flow problems? Hidden terms? Is it a shady platform? Any payment delays can be a red flag of underlying issues with a casino’s reliability or integrity.
We know you want your money, and you want it yesterday! That’s why we are going to take a detailed dive into why fast withdrawals equal peace of mind for players and how slow payouts erode trust.
What are typical payout times? What’s considered fast vs. sluggish? And what are the warning signs you need to be aware of that could spell trouble? Ready to find out all about casino payout speed? Let’s do this!
What Is Payout Speed and Why Does It Matter
Payout speed refers to how long it takes for a player to receive their winnings after submitting a withdrawal request. That includes both the casino’s internal approval process and the time it takes the payment method to deliver the funds. A casino could approve your cashout in two hours, but if you’re withdrawing to a bank account, the money might not show up for another three days. Fast-paying casinos make both parts of that timeline short and predictable.
The most important thing to understand is that payout speed is not only a technical detail; it’s part of how a casino handles player money. If a casino processes your withdrawal fast, it means that they’re organized, well-funded, and not making you jump through a lot of totally unnecessary hoops. If they’re slow, it could, at worst, be a red flag, or at best, a sign that customer service isn’t a priority.
Getting your money out without a hassle or runaround reinforces that a casino is playing fair. It tells you the platform values players who win, not just those who deposit. When withdrawals are quick and consistent? It builds trust. Slow or inconsistent payments do the exact opposite. A player shouldn’t have to wonder where their winnings are or feel like they’re chasing a company that’s ghosted them after a win!
Fast withdrawals also make the player feel respected. It sends a message that you’re not just a deposit, and that your time and money matter even after the bet is over. If a gambling site is willing to make it simple to get paid, it’s showing that it operates with transparency.
Withdrawal speed is a major factor in whether players are loyal to a platform. If someone has to wait a week to get their money, or if they get stuck in an approval queue with no updates, they’re way less likely to come back. A player might tolerate one, or even two, long payouts, but repeat the experience? They’ll find another site to play on. Casinos with a rep for quick cashouts always have stronger long-term retention because the experience feels reliable.
The casinos that delay payouts? Even if everything else about the platform is rock solid? They are risking losing loyal players. Today’s players have too many options to tolerate any BS every time they want their money.
Most players don’t recommend casinos because of their welcome bonus or game variety. No, they recommend them because they got paid, and paid fast. Quick withdrawals show up in every Reddit gambling thread, forum post, and Discord server where players talk about platforms. A single glowing comment about a 20-minute PayPal payout can bring in new players. But one story about a player waiting three weeks for a bank transfer? That does the opposite.
Casino reputation travels fast in gambling circles. If a platform pays players quickly and doesn’t make them fight for their money, that rep spreads like wildfire. If a site’s name comes up constantly in payout complaints, players will not use it, no matter how good the games look on the surface.
Ultimately, payout performance affects the long-term reputation of a casino. Players remember how easy or hard it was to get their winnings out. Industry reviewers and comparison sites track payout issues really carefully, and most won’t recommend a platform that has unresolved complaints or ambiguous withdrawal policies.
A casino can’t claim that they are “player-first” if it makes withdrawals confusing or slow. Fast, predictable payouts are the difference between a platform that feels like a legit service and one that feels like a gamble in the worst sense.
Common Payout Timeframes by Method
With withdrawal times, the banking method you choose makes a huge difference. Below is an overview of typical payout speeds for the most common withdrawal methods!
Withdrawal Method | Typical Payout Time |
---|---|
Cryptocurrency | Usually under 24 hours |
E-wallets (PayPal, Skrill, etc.) | ~1–2 business days (often within 24h) |
Credit/Debit Cards | ~3–5 business days |
Bank Transfers (ACH/Wire) | ~5–7 business days |
Above are the general guidelines, but look below for a detailed breakdown for each category:

Cryptocurrency
Crypto withdrawals are the fastest option available. Because they bypass banks, payouts in Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other cryptocurrencies can be instant. In most crypto casinos, your withdrawal is processed and sent to your wallet within minutes, with the blockchain confirming the transaction shortly after. Even in less ideal scenarios (heavy network traffic or a manual approval step by the casino), crypto cashouts typically finalize within a few hours, and certainly under 24 hours.

E-wallets
Services like PayPal, Skrill, and Neteller are known for quick turnaround. Once the casino approves your withdrawal, funds sent to an e-wallet often arrive within the same day, sometimes within 1–2 hours of processing. Officially, most casinos cite 24-48 hours for e-wallet payouts, but in practice, these are among the fastest methods available. One advantage is that after reaching your e-wallet, the money is immediately usable (you can spend it directly from the wallet or transfer it to your bank).

Credit/Debit Cards
Withdrawing back to a Visa or Mastercard (when permitted) is going to be slower. The transactions go through banking networks and can take a few business days to post to your card account. Typically, you can expect about 3–5 business days for a credit or debit card withdrawal to clear. Some casinos and payment processors support faster card payouts (for example, Visa Fast Funds or Mastercard Send), which can shorten this to under 24 hours, but that isn’t universal. As a rule of thumb, plan on several days for card withdrawals; if you cash out on a Friday, the funds might not show up until mid-week the following week.

Bank Transfers (ACH/E-check)
Traditional bank withdrawals, like ACH transfers, wire transfers, or e-checks, are the slowest common method. They involve moving money between financial institutions, with clearance times and inter-bank processing delays. Expect roughly 5–7 business days for an online casino to send money to your bank account via ACH or wire. In most cases, it can be closer to 2–5 business days, but factors like the bank’s policies, intermediary banks (for wires), and weekends/holidays can push it toward a week. If you initiate a bank withdrawal on Thursday night, the business day counting might only start on Monday, delaying the payout.
5 Red Flags: When Slow Payouts Spell Trouble
You can’t be naive and think that all slow payouts are innocent “banking delays.” Sure, there are instances where it happens! But for the most part? A slow withdrawal can be indicative of problems within the casino. Below are the warning signs to watch out for!
Habitual Withdrawal Delays
Be super wary of casinos that routinely stall on paying out. If every withdrawal takes far longer than the advertised timeframe (or keeps getting “pending” with lame excuses), that’s a really bad sign. There are rogue operators who will intentionally drag their feet, hoping you’ll give up or cancel the withdrawal and gamble the money again.
Consistent, unexplained delays in receiving your funds can indicate that the casino is poorly managed or even experiencing financial difficulties. In extreme cases, a shady casino might not pay out at all, hiding behind vague reasons. There are reports of sites that flat out refuse to pay, which is outright theft. If a pattern of slow-pay or no-pay emerges, consider it a glaring red flag.
Hidden Terms & Extreme Rollover Requirements
Always read the fine print in the Terms and Conditions. Dishonest casinos can bury clauses that trap your money in limbo. How? By requiring an absurd wagering turnover on deposits before any withdrawal is allowed, or setting daily/weekly withdrawal limits that are so low that large wins take months or years to cash out. If you encounter “huh?” conditions when you attempt to withdraw (such as suddenly being told you must wager your deposit 5x over because of some obscure rule), you’re dealing with a casino that lacks transparency. Legitimate casinos are always upfront about any withdrawal limits or bonus wagering requirements.
Lack of Transparency about Payout Process
Does the casino state upfront how long withdrawals typically take, and do they update you on the status? If not, be suspicious. A trustworthy casino will publish its payout timeframes by method and provide a pending/processing status update. If you get vague answers like “it will be processed soon” or the casino support can’t tell you where your payment stands, that’s poor transparency. Secrecy or inconsistency in the payout process (e.g., one day they say 48 hours, then later it’s 10 business days) means the casino is unreliable or mismanaged. Players should never be left in the dark about their own money!
Last-Minute or Excessive KYC Demands
Verifying a player’s identity is normal and necessary, but beware of the casinos that only ask for KYC documents when you try to withdraw, especially if they pile on extraneous requests.
Rogue casinos can approve deposits, but as soon as you have a big win and cash out, they suddenly demand a barrage of documents, and not just the standard ID and proof of address, but notarized statements or certified translations. In some reported cases, scam casinos attempted to charge “verification fees,” which no legitimate site would ever do.
A reputable casino will have you complete KYC at registration or before your first withdrawal, and they won’t invent new verification steps just to delay payment. If your simple cash-out turns into an endless identity investigation without good cause, that’s a red flag.
Rogue Operator Reports
If a casino has a history of player complaints for non-payment, slow payment, or unethical behavior, do NOT play there. The online gambling community will identify and call out bad actors, and there are entire watchdog sites and forums dedicated to exposing casinos that don’t pay or that engage in shady tactics.
If you see multiple credible reports of players having to fight tooth-and-nail to get their winnings (or not getting paid at all), consider that casino blacklisted. Real-life case examples include casinos that vanished overnight with player funds or those that retroactively change terms to void winnings. We don’t have to name names here, but do your research; if a casino’s name pops up regularly in complaints or scam alerts, avoid it like the black plague.
What Influences a Casino’s Payout Speed?
Why do some casinos pay out in an hour and others take a week? There are several aspects to this discrepancy and how they influence a casino’s payout speed!
Licensing and Regulation
The regulatory body overseeing a casino plays the biggest role in all payout practices. Casinos licensed by strict, reputable authorities (like the UK Gambling Commission, Malta Gaming Authority, or in the U.S. state regulators) are held to high standards. These regulators require that customer funds be segregated and that withdrawals are not unreasonably delayed.
The UKGC explicitly mandates that players must be allowed to withdraw without unnecessary barriers or delays. Strong regulators also give players a way to escalate complaints if payouts are withheld. But the casinos under lax or obscure licenses (or no license at all) have less or zero oversight, so they feel free to stall payments because there’s no one looking over their shoulder. All legitimate, well-regulated casinos have both the means and obligation to pay quickly, whereas dodgy operations correspond with slow payout issues.
Internal Processes and Staffing
A casino’s internal process can affect payout speed as well. Some casinos have automated systems or ample finance staff to approve withdrawals around the clock, even on weekends. Those casinos that advertise 24/7 withdrawal processing? They likely have staff on hand day and night to review and push payments, so that requests don’t pile up.
A smaller or less efficient casino might only process payouts during limited business hours or require multiple manual checks, which slows things down. Risk and fraud protocols also factor in; if every withdrawal triggers a lengthy manual review, it will be slower than a casino that uses smart, automated checks for most transactions. The more streamlined and well-staffed the casino’s finance/verification team is, the faster the payouts. Casinos known for fast payouts all invest in better technology and training to minimize any internal holdups.
Payment Partners and Banking Systems
Even the most willing casino can only move as fast as the payment methods allow. The speed can be influenced by the third-party payment processors and banks that the casino works with.
If a casino’s bank partner processes ACH transfers slowly or if an e-wallet service has an outage, that’s beyond the casino’s control. Sometimes, delays are on the payment provider’s end, not the casino’s fault.
A classic example is when a bank takes extra time to clear a large incoming payment or when a blockchain network is congested, causing a crypto transfer delay. Then there are certain methods (like international wire transfers or credit card payouts) that just inherently involve more steps. Casinos that want fast payouts will partner with modern, efficient payment services whenever it’s possible.
If you notice a casino offers instant withdrawal methods (like instant bank transfer or a prepaid debit card) it’s a sign they’ve invested in speedy payment partnerships. But if a casino only offers old-school methods that take days, you can expect slower withdrawals.
Volume of Withdrawals & Financial Health
Lastly, consider the load and the casino’s financial stability. A site that’s experiencing a high volume of withdrawals (for example, after a big jackpot win by multiple players, or at the end of the month) might slow down simply due to sheer queue volume. The best casinos can handle bursts of payouts without trouble, but smaller ones might get backed up.
Also, though reputable casinos segregate player funds, an operator in financial trouble might deliberately delay payouts, hoping to resolve cash issues, which is a very bad scenario, but it has happened in the past with rogue operators. If players are constantly complaining about slow payments and the casino keeps giving excuses about “technical issues” or “processing backlog,” there very well might be an underlying financial problem.
Healthy casinos pay promptly because they have the cash flow to do so. So, a casino’s overall reliability and financial health (which ties to its reputation and licensing) influence how smoothly it can pay players on time. Lots of complaints about payout speed indicate something is wrong operationally. A well-run, well-funded casino will prioritize fast withdrawals, whereas a struggling or poorly run one will show its cracks via payout delays.
How to Check a Casino’s Payout Reputation before Depositing
Before you even deposit a single dollar, and we mean it, you should research where you’re thinking about playing! The following are a few easy steps to make sure that you’re signing up with a fast-paying, trustworthy gambling site.
Read User Reviews and Forum Discussions
One of the quickest ways to gauge a casino’s payout performance is to see what other players are saying about it. Check out online casino forums, Reddit communities (e.g., r/onlinegambling or state-specific gambling subreddits), and review sites for real user experiences. If tons of players report “Got my withdrawal in 2 hours” or “Always paid next day,” that’s a really good sign.
But if you encounter stories like “been waiting 3 weeks for my payout” or “support keeps stalling my withdrawal,” that’s a big fat warning. Keep in mind that any casino might have a few isolated complaints, but look for patterns. Consistent praise for fast payments or repeated complaints of slow/no payments will give you a decent picture. You can also check reputable review sites and watchdog portals like AskGamblers and Trustpilot. A little research upfront can save you from stumbling into a payout nightmare.
Look for Payout Tracking and Watchdog Reports
There are resources that specifically track payout speeds and reliability. Casino watchdog websites and affiliate blogs do “fastest payout casino” comparisons or have sections noting how long withdrawals take at various sites.
There are industry reports that will call out if a certain casino tends to pay within hours versus one that averages a week or more. If the casino has any seals or badges for fast payouts on its site (e.g., “Certified Fast Payouts” by a reputable reviewer), that’s a plus, though you should verify the source of the certification. Watchdog reports can also include dispute resolutions; if you see a casino’s name frequently in unresolved payout disputes, avoid it. The casinos that are rarely complained about in terms of payments are likely doing a good job. Use Google to search “[Casino Name] payout review” or “[Casino Name] withdrawal time” and see what comes up. Dedicated comparison tools or community-driven trackers can be extremely telling.
Verify Licensing and Check for Seals of Trust
As we said earlier, always confirm what license a casino operates under. If it’s a well-known, strictly regulated license (like a state gaming commission in the U.S., UKGC, MGA, etc.), you have the most protection that’s available. These casinos are required to have the funds to pay players and not engage in shady delay tactics.
You can find licensing info in the website footer, so take the time to verify it (regulatory bodies publish lists of licensees; you can cross-check the casino’s name). Also, look for trust seals or certificates, like eCOGRA’s “Safe and Fair” seal, which verifies that the casino underwent auditing (including checks on whether they pay out reliably).
Do a Small ‘Payout Test’
A great way to put a gambling site through its payout speed paces is to do the small withdrawal test. Before getting too involved with a new casino, deposit a modest amount, play a bit, and then try withdrawing, say, $50 or $100.
See how the casino handles it. Did they process it quickly and without a hassle? Or did it take a long time and/or require you to prod support? A fast, smooth, small withdrawal is a green light that increases confidence in the casino’s payout process. It also helps you complete any necessary verification steps early on. If the casino fails the test and it takes an unreasonably long time or they hit you with extra requirements, then you’ve learned with minimal risk that you shouldn’t trust them with a larger sum. Do a trial run and only scale up if they prove to be reliable. Trust is earned, especially when it comes to your winnings.
Our Picks: Fastest Paying Online Casinos for 2025
We have been around the gambling site block quite a few times, and we’ve found the five fastest paying online casinos for 2025! Below, we’ve listed the platforms, along with payout methods, speed, and verification methods.
Casino | Fastest Methods | Payout Speed | Verification Notes |
---|---|---|---|
PayPal, Play+ Card | 24–48 hours | KYC before the first withdrawal | |
Venmo, Debit Card, PayPal | As fast as 1 hour post-approval | The method used must match the deposit | |
Instant Bank Transfer, PayPal | 24–72 hours | Clear communication throughout | |
Debit Card, PayPal | Under 24 hours (24/7 processing) | Weekend/holiday payouts available | |
Play+ Card, PayPal | Instant approval with RushPay™ | 90%+ auto-approved withdrawals |
Tips for Guaranteeing a Smooth & Fast Withdrawal
No matter which online casino you play at, there are a few proactive steps you can take to make sure that your withdrawals go through as quickly as possible!
- Submit Your ID Before You Play – Most delays happen because players skip the verification process until they’re ready to cash out. Don’t do that! Upload your ID and address the needed documents right after signing up, while your balance is still at zero. That way, if and when you do win something, you’re already cleared and not stuck waiting for approval!
- Use What Pays Fast, Not What’s Familiar – PayPal, Venmo, and Play+ cards always move faster than debit cards or bank wires. Don’t default to your slowest option just because it’s convenient. If the casino supports instant payouts to a method, use that from the start so you’re eligible when you want to get your winnings.
- Avoid Bonus Offers That Block Withdrawals – If a bonus comes with high rollover requirements, your money’s tied up until you meet them. That includes your deposit in almost all cases, not just the bonus. If your goal is to cash out quickly? Skip the promos and stick with a clean deposit. No restrictions, no delays.
- Know the Casino’s Payout Caps – Before you hit a big win, understand what the casino allows you to take out. Some gambling sites limit daily, weekly, or monthly withdrawals, even for verified players. If they only allow $2,500 per week and you win $10K, you can expect to wait four weeks unless they offer a manual review exception. Know before you play.
Conclusion: Don’t Gamble With Your Winnings
Payout speed is not a trivial matter; it’s the most basic and core metric of an online casino’s trustworthiness. When you are deciding on where to play, keep payout speed and reliability front-of-mind, just as you would with game selection or bonus offers!
If you’ve won, you deserve to get paid, without any games, delays, or excuses.
Here’s a brief recap of understanding payout speed: the true measure of a casino’s trustworthiness:
- Fast payouts build trust, and slow ones destroy it.
- All reputable online casinos post their payout policies clearly and follow through with them.
- Do your research before you deposit.
- Test it out first with a small deposit and withdrawal.
- Only play on regulated, well-reviewed sites that payout when you win.
FC Cincinnati vs Inter Miami Betting Picks & Prediction (July 16, 2025)
FC Cincinnati will host Inter Miami on Wednesday at TQL Stadium, and it’s only a few days after losing the Hell is Real Derby. Ouch.
Miami has fared a little better, losing only once in league play since May 18. Cincinnati needs points to keep up with the top of the East, and there’s a lot of pressure to fix breakdowns on both ends after a really sloppy performance against Columbus.
The Blue and the Orange both have expectations for this one, and this big question is if Cincinnati can disrupt Miami’s tempo and limit Lionel Messi and his seemingly magical feet involvement in the buildup. If they can’t? Miami has the pieces to take over.
Keep scrolling to see all of the info; we’ve got the main trends, specific player matchups, betting odds, a tactical preview, and our picks for the four best bets!
Match Details
- Matchup:FC Cincinnati vs. Inter Miami CF
- Date & Time: Wednesday, July 16, 7:30 pm ET
- Venue: TQL Stadium, Cincinnati, OH
- How To Watch: MLS Season Pass (Apple TV)
- Why It Matters: The winner can take the lead in the Top Eastern Conference standings
Head-to-Head & Team Form
In the head-to-head and team form categories, here are the stats for FC Cincinnati and Inter Miami:
- Inter Miami leads the all-time series 5–4–2 through 11 matchups, with an average of nearly 3.8 goals per game. The fixtures have been regularly open, with space in wide areas and breakdowns in transition shaping most of the scoring.
- FC Cincinnati has won four of their last five in league pla, but were exposed defensively in a 4–2 loss to Columbus. Inter Miami are unbeaten in their last five, scoring 17 in that span, all driven by Messi, who’s found the net in six in a row.
- The numbers back a high-event match once again: 64% of the head-to-heads have seen both teams score, and 60% have finished with at least three goals. Both sides have good attacking form, and neither has shut down games against top-tier opponents so far this season.
Betting Odds
BetMGM Sportsbook has the latest odds and lines if you are looking to wager on this game:
Moneyline (3-way)
- FC Cincinnati +140
- Draw +280
- Inter Miam +150
Over/Under
- Over 3.5 (-105)
- Under 3.5 (-135)
Top Storylines
Messi is coming in with 10 goals and 5 assists in his last 5 matches. At his current pace? He’s closing in on the MLS single-season scoring record, and there’s over a third of the season left!
Cincinnati has averaged 1.67 goals per home match and relies really heavily on Ottoman Evander, who leads the team with 13 goals and ranks among the best in shot-creating actions.
Miami has scored in six straight road games and doesn’t play scared when they’re not at home. BTTS has hit in 79% of their road fixtures, and most of their goals happen in the first 60 minutes.
On the defensive side of things, Miami has conceded 18 goals in its last seven league matches, and it’s one of the worst stretches in the East. Cincinnati is coming off a 4-goal collapse against Columbus and still looks really disorganized in transition.
Tactical Preview

Inter Miami runs almost all of its attacking sequences through Messi, with Suárez dragging defenders out of position and Allende linking up from midfield. They create volume in the final third but leave openings when possession breaks, and it’s usually down the flanks and in front of the back line. Ustari has looked kind of uncertain dealing with crosses and second balls, and that could be a factor.

FC Cincinnati will probably stay compact and break through quick vertical passes from Evander and Denkey. They’ve had a lot of success catching teams stretched after turnovers, and Miami’s fullbacks tend to leave space behind. If Cincinnati wins the ball higher up? They’ll have open lanes to attack through.
Our Best Bets
Look below for what we feel are the four best bets for this match!
Pick | Rationale | Confidence |
---|---|---|
Both Teams to Score | Both teams have scored in most of their recent matches, and this fixture has produced goals on both sides in multiple past meetings. | 8/10 |
Over 3 Goals | Miami games have trended high-scoring, and this matchup usually opens up by the second half. | 7/10 |
Messi Anytime Scorer | He’s scored in six straight and will get chances inside the box with space to operate. | 9/10 |
Draw (Full Time) | Both sides can score, but they also have defensive issues, so this sets up well for a 2–2 or 3–3 finish. | 6/10 |
Cincinnati vs. Miami: Final Thoughts and Betting Takeaways
Messi’s scoring streak has totally redefined how teams prepare for Miami, and his recent run of nine goals in five matches changes how Cincinnati will need to defend in their own half.
FCC usually controls the matches at TQL, but their 4-goal collapse against Columbus raised a lot of concerns about their spacing and coverage.
For bettors, the smartest angles are in goals, not on the results. Both sides create volume in the final third, and neither back line has shown a ton of stability over the last month. Match-winner markets are more volatile, but the scoring outlook is way more predictable!
Best Bets Recap
- Both Teams to Score: 8/10
- Over 3 Goals: 7/10
- Messi Anytime Scorer: 9/10
- Full-Time Draw: 6/10
Final Score Prediction: FC Cincinnati 2 – 2 Inter Miami CF
Cincinnati can break through with movement from Denkey and Evander if they control the midfield. Miami’s front line, led by Messi, keeps converting chances at a high rate and will push Cincinnati’s back line with pace and overloads.
Neither defense has held up well against playoff-level attacks, and that makes a higher-scoring draw a really strong possibility!
If you’re ready to place a wager on this matchup, be sure to only do it at betting sites you can trust. This will ensure your money is safe and you’ll be paid out your winnings quickly/