2025 Royal Ascot Betting Picks – Best Bets for the Top 3 Races

Royal Ascot isn’t merely a pageant of fascinator hats and crystal champagne flutes; it’s one of the most competitive betting stages in all of global racing. Beneath the pomp and ceremony is a slate of high-stakes races that bring in serious punters, syndicates, and anyone who knows the difference between a sprinter and a stayer.

This year’s card features three races with real implications for status, for profit, and for those with the nerve to bet on form over fanfare. We’ve narrowed in on the races that matter and the bets that hold up under scrutiny.

Choose your horses carefully; the tailoring may be immaculate, but the racing is grimy and ruthless.

Keep scrolling for our expert picks for the top three races, our best bets for each one, and what sportsbooks offer the best betting value!

Race Details

• Dates: June 17–21
• Location: Ascot Racecourse, Berkshire, England
• Top Races Covered: Queen Anne Stakes (Tuesday); Prince of Wales’s Stakes (Wednesday); Gold Cup (Thursday)
• How to Watch in the U.S.: FanDuel TV / NBC Sports

About Royal Ascot 2025

Dating back to 1711, Royal Ascot is still one of the most anticipated fixtures in flat racing! It combines historic prestige with top-tier competition. Every day features seven races with world-class runners, huge betting pools, and viewership that stretches far beyond Berkshire.

Wagering exceeds £200 million during the week, and a lot of it comes from online punters. If you’re betting on a sportsbook, treat it like a proper meet! Set your stakes before the first post, track line movement across markets, and don’t adjust midstream just because the first race didn’t go your way. Structured and disciplined bets always fare better than impulsive ones!

Race #1: Queen Anne Stakes – Tuesday, June 17

The Queen Anne kicks off Royal Ascot with a mile-long Group 1 that’s anything but a warm-up. Open to horses aged four and up, the race regularly draws serious talent, usually returning champions or top milers coming off big runs in the Breeders’ Cup.

• Race Type: Group 1 flat
• Distance: 1 mile (1,600 meters)
• Eligibility: Horses aged 4 years and up
• Post Time: Tuesday, June 17 at 2:30 p.m. BST / 9:30 a.m. ET (U.S.)

Top Contenders

These are the projected top contenders; 

• Charyn: solid prep season, sharp miler form
• Big Rock: front-runner with serious pace from France
• Facteur Cheval: Breeders’ Cup Mile runner-up, handles firm turf
• Maljoom: lightly raced, big upside if fit and firing
  

Note: Inspiral has not yet been confirmed in the final field, but if she lines up? She’ll likely go off as the favorite. Her 2024 return was solid, and she’s already a multiple Group 1 winner over this distance.

Race #2: Prince of Wales’s Stakes – Wednesday, June 18

A middle-distance Group 1 showdown over 1 mile 2 furlongs that showcases elite four-year-olds and up.

• Group: 1
• Distance: 1 m 2 f (≈2,004 m)
• Eligibility: 4-year-olds and up
• Post Time: Wednesday, June 18 at 4:20 p.m. BST / 11:20 a.m. ET (U.S.) 

Top Contenders

• Auguste Rodin: The defending champion (2024 winner) with Ascot experience and top-tier form. 
• King of Steel: Big-framed runner with proven stamina; won the G2 King Edward VII and handles Ascot’s demands.
• Al Riffa: Emerging talent; was recently successful over 12f and could spring a surprise if conditions suit!

Race #3: Ascot Gold Cup – Thursday, June 19

The Gold Cup is Royal Ascot’s longest and most grueling test: 2 miles and 4 furlongs of sustained pace, endurance, and tactical patience. It’s the crown jewel for stayers and takes more than raw speed; it calls for stamina, positioning, and timing over a brutal distance!

• Group: 1
• Distance: 2 m 4 f (4,014 meters)
• Eligibility: 4-year-olds and up
• Post Time: Thursday, June 19 at 4:20 p.m. BST / 11:20 a.m. ET (U.S.)

Top Contenders

• Illinois: Aidan O’Brien’s rising stayer, coming off a strong win in the Ormonde Stakes. Lightly raced at this trip, but looks bred for it.
• Coltrane: Veteran stayer who finished 2nd in last year’s Gold Cup. Reliable over this distance and has run well at Ascot in every major staying race.
• Gregory: Unexposed but bred for this kind of distance. Showed staying potential as a 3-year-old and could improve with a more patient ride.

Best Overall Bets for Royal Ascot 2025

The Royal Ascot card is deep, but not all plays are deserving of your bankroll! We’ve narrowed it down to the bets that hold value, and here are the ones that we trust the most.

• Top Value Bet – Maljoom (Queen Anne Stakes, each-way) | Recently highlighted at ~10/1 as a solid each-way selection: well supported in ante-post markets and worth backing for value.
• Most Confident Pick – Illinois (Gold Cup, Win) | With Kyprios retired, Illinois has trotted into the favorite’s role at ~11/8 for the Gold Cup, picked up by multiple sportsbooks after strong staying form and an Ormonde Stakes win.
• Best Exotic Play – Prince of Wales’s Stakes Trifecta | Forecasting Auguste Rodin – King of Steel – Al Riffa reflects top-tier class, stamina, and potential upside. Routes like this usually favor that precise order in a middle-distance Group‑1 race.
• Dark Horse of the Week – Gregory (Gold Cup, Place) | Listed at ~50/1 in pre-race Gold Cup betting, Gregory is bred for the staying trip and profiling as a sleeper, so this is an ideal value on the tote!

Where to Bet on Royal Ascot in the U.S.

You don’t have to be trackside to bet on the races! Below is where U.S. players can wager on Royal Ascot; all have full markets and live coverage.

• FanDuel: Solid odds and a user-friendly setup make it a really easy go-to for bettors.
• TwinSpires: Best option for live streaming and building out exotic bets.
• TVG / Bet365: Reliable platforms with regular promos during big races.

Royal Ascot Betting Tips for 2025

Betting on Royal Ascot isn’t like betting at the local track. Field depth, turf variability, and international form all matter. Below is what you need to factor in before you bet!

Final Thoughts & Predictions Recap

We have pinpointed the races that have structure behind them; all are backed up by form, pace, and pricing that hold up!

• Queen Anne: If Inspiral doesn’t run, Facteur Cheval is the clear play. Maljoom holds each-way value.
• Prince of Wales’s: Auguste Rodin has the tools to control this race. King of Steel and Al Riffa fill out the trifecta.
• Gold Cup: With Kyprios out, Illinois has moved to the top of the conversation. Coltrane holds as a reliable second, and Gregory is a place-play sleeper.

Oregon State vs. Louisville Prediction (June 17, 2025) – CWS Elimination Game

It’s win or go home in Omaha. Oregon State and Louisville meet again on the ball field after a 4–3 game earlier in the tourney; the Beavers scored late and broke the tie to win. But this is an elimination game, so whoever loses this one packs their bags and goes home. A coveted spot in Omaha is on the line, so the margin for error in this rematch is basically nonexistent.

Louisville didn’t play their best in the last game against Oregon; they left too many runners on, missed a key relay, and couldn’t close the ninth. Oregon State didn’t overpower them by any means, but they came through when it counted. That’s been their style of play during the tournament: take what’s given to them, and not give anything back. The Cardinals have better hitters, but control issues and some defensive lapses have made things a lot harder than they should be.

Who’s pitching? What’s the bullpen setup like?  Who should you bet on, and what are our best bets that have the most value for the CWS elimination game? We’ll answer all of that and more below!

Game Details

• Matchup: Oregon State vs. Louisville
• Date & Time: Tuesday, June 17, at 2 p.m. ET
• Location: Charles Schwab Field, Omaha
• Broadcast: Live on ESPN
• Stakes: Win-and-you’re-in elimination at the Men’s College World Series

Form & Momentum

With elimination hanging over their ball caps, neither team can afford to have another flat outing. Oregon State and Louisville have both shown moments of greatness, but inconsistency on the mound and missed chances at the plate have put them here. The game will hinge on bullpen execution and which lineup handles high-pressure situations better.

Main Matchups to Watch

The game will turn on which starter can hold it together once the lineups turn over, and which middle-of-the-order hitters come through when the bases aren’t empty.

Pitching Duel

• Oregon State – Dax Whitney: Freshman right-hander with a 3.66 ERA, 111 strikeouts to 36 walks; attacks the zone and limits hard contact
• Louisville – Patrick Forbes: First-round talent with a power fastball; has tightened up his command and gone deeper into games in recent starts

Offensive X-Factors

• Oregon State: Aiva Arquette (.354, 18 HR) and Gavin Turley (.346, 19 HR) are two reliable power threats with really strong at-bat discipline
• Louisville: Eddie King Jr. (.362, 17 HR), backed by a lineup that can pressure defenses with speed and early-count swings

Betting Angles & Latest Odds

If you’re betting on this one, here are the betting angles and latest odds and lines via DraftKings:

Moneyline Edge

• Oregon State ~66% implied chance (–200 on DK; +145 Louisville underdog)
• Best bet: Oregon State ML (–200) — backed by better pitching, stronger late-game options, and the benefit of having already beaten Louisville once in this bracket.

Player Props

• Dax Whitney strikeouts: Facing Louisville’s aggressive hitters, his K projection is really strong.
• Eddie King Jr. prop: With a .362 average and 17 HRs, he’s a candidate for a long ball or multi-hit game.

Best Bets for Oregon State vs. Louisville

Hmmm, what are we looking at in terms of value? We landed on the following four best bets for this game!

Prediction Recap: Who Moves On in Omaha?

We think this’ll be an almost identical game as their first meeting, aka low scoring, long at-bats, and not much room for mistakes. Dax Whitney held it together longer than Forbes in their last matchup, and Oregon State has been stronger on the mound throughout the tournament.

Final Score Prediction: Oregon State 5 – Louisville 3

Their bullpen has done a better job handling traffic; there were no free passes in the late innings, and they’ve been able to finish them without letting rallies build up. Louisville hasn’t managed that same control under pressure.

If Oregon State gets a good hit from Arquette or Turley with runners on, that could be the turning point. They have better pitching and arms behind Whitney, so they’re in a really good position to advance.

Oilers vs. Panthers Game 6 Prediction & Top Bets (June 17, 2025)

We’ve got NHL Finals whiplash. After the stunner that was Game 4, where the Oilers came back to even up the series to 2-2, we were pretty sure that the Oilers would win Game 5. So was everyone else.

Wrong! The Panthers whooped Edmonton 5-2, they’re up 3-2, and are now only one game away from winning the Stanley Cup back-to-back. Game 6 is do-or-die for the Oilers, or it’s all over for them.

The next one goes back to Sunrise, Florida. Will the Cats take Game 6 for a Cup repeat? Or will the Oilers force a Game 7 back in Edmonton? They resurrected in Game 4, so it’s not out of the question by any means. Either way, our necks hurt from all the back-and-forth. But we are here for it; this is some great playoff hockey!

Game Details

• Matchup Stanley Cup Final — Edmonton Oilers at Florida Panthers, Game 6
• When: Tuesday, June 17 at 8:00 p.m. ET 
• Where: Amerant Bank Arena, Sunrise, Florida 
• How to Watch (US): Nationally televised on TNT, and simulcast on truTV and Max 
• Series Status: – FLA leads 3 – 2

Series So Far: Stick Styles

Florida is now ahead in the series 3–2 and is back in control after a convincing 5–2 win in Game 5. The Panthers showed off a potent combo of tight structure, physical play, and aggressive offensive bursts and followed up with disciplined shutdown minutes.

Brad Marchand tallied a two-goal night (making his series goal total six), and Sam Bennett added his playoff-leading 15th goal. Sergei Bobrovsky stopped 19 shots, handling everything that came at him before the Panthers built their cushion.

Edmonton did manage a goal from Connor McDavid, which was his first of the series, but the Oilers never got enough momentum. Their power play was cold (0-for-3), and a few sloppy neutral-zone turnovers turned into goals for the Panthers. Coach Knoblauch and the Oilers said it was a good first shift, but said they missed chances and just couldn’t recover.

Scoreline Summary

• Game 3: Panthers win 6–1
• Game 4: Oilers squeak out a win 5–4 in OT
• Game 5: Panthers take it 5–2 

Main Matchups to Watch

There is a lot to watch on the ice, but this is who and what we are laser-focused on in Game 6:

Tactical Talk

We don’t think that this will be a run-and-gun finish. Game 6 is going to get real messy in the corners, tight around the crease, and tense when the refs blow their little whistles.

Florida’s Five-Man Wall

In Game 5, Bobrovsky only had to make 19 saves. The Panthers were closing off lanes, eating pucks, and clearing rebounds before Edmonton could reload. They didn’t give up the slot and didn’t let plays happen.

Power Plays

Five-on-five play has been close all series long, and most of the separation has come when one side goes to the box. Florida’s capitalized on it, and Edmonton hasn’t. If Game 6 has more penalties, and it probably will, this part of the game takes on a lot more weight.

Physical Edge

It’s gotten nastier every game; the numbers back this, and so do our eyes. Game 5 saw over 60 combined penalty minutes. And it’s not just about the physicality! If someone gets baited into the extra call? One bad retaliation could change the outcome.

Latest Betting Odds & Lines

We are gonna bet on this one even if we flubbed it last game. We aren’t quitters! If you are, too, here are the latest odds and lines via BetMGM:

Our Best Bets for Game 6

We have looked at all of the angles for Game 6, and below are the three best bets and a bonus lean that we think have the most value!

Game 6 Gut Check: Here’s How We See It Playing Out

Florida plays cleaner and more structured hockey. They manage the puck, make less mistakes, and rely on Bobrovsky to cover what little does manage to break through. On home ice, they’ve looked way more composed and in sync than Edmonton.

The Oilers do have a lot of talent, but the same issues keep coming up: thin scoring beyond the top line, wobbly defensive coverage, and a goalie who hasn’t met the moment.

Game 6 will probably lean tight, with less chances and more post-whistle standoffs than odd-man rushes. We’re backing Florida to shut it down and end it without needing to schlep back to Alberta. And we won’t need neck braces for our whiplash!

Final Score Prediction: Florida Panthers 3, Edmonton Oilers 2

Florida finishes it off with an empty-netter late in the third period and wins it 3–2!

Remember: If you are going to bet on this game, be sure to gamble responsibly and bet within your means.

How to Tell If You’re Betting Emotionally—And Fix It Fast

You think you’re betting with logic—checking stats, picking your spots, staying disciplined. Then you have a loss or two or three, and all of a sudden, you’re chasing the next win like it’s a bus you’ve missed and you need to get on that bus! It’s not uncommon, and if you aren’t careful? It can spin out of control before you even know that it’s happening.

It’s not like emotional betting will tap you on the shoulder or announce itself. One minute you’re on your game and sticking to your plan, and the next? You’re reacting instead. And it’s normal to want to win back what you lost. It’s not something that only happens to inexperienced bettors, either. There are people with decades of betting experience under their belts who can slip into emotional betting.

We want to help you be aware of what betting emotionally entails, how you can catch yourself doing it, and how to nip it in the bud. Then you’ll know what emotional betting looks like, why your brain tends to go down that path, and what you can do to stop it. The end game is less knee-jerk bets, fewer blown bankrolls, and a lot more control!

What Is Emotional Betting?

Emotional betting is what happens when your decisions at the sportsbook aren’t based on any kind of logic, research, or a plan; they’re based on your feelings. Anger after a loss. Excitement after a win. Impatience. Hope. Desperation. Basically, anything that would make you say “Eff it” and hit confirm before you’ve thought it through.

It’s not a momentary mood swing, either. It’s a change in how you’re making bets. Rather than doing your due diligence by looking at stats or running through your usual filters, you start reacting. You see your balance drop, and you immediately go searching for the next pick in the hopes of winning it back. You see your favorite team in a must-win game, and you bet on them because you want them to win, not because they’re the best team to pick.

And the problem isn’t only that it throws off your strategy, it’s worse than that. You will make bets that you wouldn’t normally make, and it’s with money that you didn’t plan to bet with. That can delete your bankroll, your ego, and your ability to be and stay consistent.

The following are a few of the most common reasons that emotional betting occurs:

• You’re coming off a loss: You missed a parlay by one leg. You lost in overtime on a bad call. And now you’re tilted. Instead of taking a break, you chase it, thinking that you’re due for a rebound, even though nothing in the matchup shows that.
• You’re attached to certain teams or players: Maybe you’re a die-hard Knicks fan, or you always bet SGA props no matter the number. But betting based on loyalty alone isn’t the same as betting with an advantage; it’s personal bias on a betting slip.
• You’re chasing the “rush”: Sometimes it’s not even about the money. You want the action. You want to feel something, anything,  when you watch a game. But betting for an adrenaline rush is the fastest way to lose both discipline and your money.

The biggest issue with emotional betting is that it turns your bankroll into a yo-yo. You’re constantly reacting instead of planning, and the more it happens? The harder it gets to break the pattern.

7 Signs You’re Betting Emotionally

You won’t always know you’re doing it in the moment. Emotional betting doesn’t come with a “DANGER” sign; it sneaks in with little things. If you recognize any of the patterns below, your decisions are probably being influenced more by emotion than logic.

Why It Happens—The Psychology Behind It

You’re not weak. You’re not undisciplined. Your gray matter is hard-wired to make bad decisions under pressure, and sportsbooks know it. There’s science to back up emotional betting, and once you understand it, the patterns will make a lot more sense.

Let’s break down what’s going on under the hood!

5 Fast Fixes to Stop Emotional Betting

Acknowledging that you are emotionally betting is one thing, but stopping it? That’s another kettle of fish. It takes structure, but some fixes and habits can pull you out of reactive mode and back into making informed bets!

Build a Rational Betting Routine

Quick fixes do help, but if you want long-term success, you need to have a system in place. A routine that’s built on logic, not on impulse, makes it so much easier to be and remain disciplined, even when the pressure mounts.

Conclusion: Don’t Let Your Feelings Bust Your Bankroll

Most people don’t realize they’re betting emotionally until the damage is already done. The account is drained, the bets are bigger, and the decisions don’t even make sense in hindsight. By then, you’re not just losing money—you’re losing control.

But you don’t have to keep going down that dangerous road! If you are able to recognize the signs early on and start building a routine that relies on structure instead of spur-of-the-moment decisions, you’ll avoid the worst of it.

You’re not trying to win every bet, because you won’t. You’re trying to last. You’re trying to bet without regret, and that takes real discipline.

Here’s a brief recap about emotional betting:

• Emotional betting is way more common than most people admit.
• It usually rears its head after losses, in impulsive bets, or through chasing.
• Recognizing it is the first step, and a routine and structured betting stops it from getting out of hand.
• Long-term success in betting comes from logic, not emotion.
  

San Diego Padres vs. Los Angeles Dodgers Prediction (June 16, 2025)

The NL West spotlight is headed to Chavez Ravine on Monday night as the Padres and Dodgers meet on the field in a high-leverage showdown. There are standings on the line, people! Only one game separates the two long-time rivals, and the outcome of this series? It could shift the summer.

All eyes will be on the mound; Dylan Cease is expected to start for San Diego, but there was big news announced last night—Dodgers two-way star Shohei Ohtani is set to make his return to the hill!

This marks Ohtani’s first pitching appearance in 22 months following his elbow surgery, and it’s his first start as a pitcher in a Dodgers uniform. Sorry, Ben Casparius! You’ve been benched for this one.

We’re excited to see what Ohtani brings to LA, and it should be a pretty good show! Keep scrolling to read all about this matchup, the latest betting odds, and, of course, our picks for the best bets for the opener!

Game Overview

• Matchup: San Diego Padres at Los Angeles Dodgers
• Date & Time: Monday, June 16, 10:10 pm ET (7:10 pm local PT)
• Location: Dodger Stadium, Los Angeles. The Dodgers are 24–12 at home this season, and the Padres are 18–19 on the road
• Broadcast: MLBN (MLB Network)
• Weather Forecast: Around 77°F and clear evening skies in Los Angeles

Starting Pitchers Breakdown

There are two really high-profile arms throwing, but only one has logged innings this season. Cease is coming off his best start of the year. Ohtani hasn’t thrown a pitch in a game since 2023.

Recent Form & Key Trends

The Padres broke out of a slump with a win in Arizona, and the Dodgers keep masking rotation holes with big hitters and bullpen coverage. Both teams have their flaws, but they’re coming in off wins.

Head-to-Head Series

• The Dodgers won the opener 8–7 in 10 innings
• Padres followed with an 11–1 rout behind Cease
• The Dodgers took the third game 5–2 to claim the series
• LA has a 2–1 advantage  in the season matchup
• Tensions are still there from the 2024 NLDS; San Diego eliminated Los Angeles

Latest Betting Odds

Here are the most recent betting odds and lines via  ESPN BET:

The Dodgers are favored due to Ohtani returning to pitch. The total is sitting at 8.5, with slight juice on the over. San Diego gets the run-line cushion at a steep price, and LA backers get plus money on a multi-run win!

Betting Angle & Best Bets

And now for our picks! Look below for what we think are the two best bets for this opener.

Padres vs. Dodgers – Our Prediction

Final Score Prediction: Padres 4 – Dodgers 2

San Diego finally got production from their entire lineup in the win over Arizona, and they’ll have their best available starter pitching. Cease easily handled the Dodgers last week and comes into the game on full rest.

Ohtani’s return comes with a lot of “what if’s.” He hasn’t pitched since 2023, so the Dodgers are expected to limit his workload. And that puts extra pressure on a bullpen that’s already been logging heavy innings.

The Padres have the better starting option, the more stable pitching setup, and the hitters that can take advantage once LA goes to relief. This is a game that they can take on the road!

UCLA vs. LSU Prediction & Top Bets (June 16, 2025) – Men’s College World Series

UCLA and LSU will meet tomorrow night in Game 7 of bracket play at the Men’s College World Series. The first pitch is set to be thrown at 7:00 pm ET at Charles Schwab Field in Omaha, and you can watch it on ESPN and ESPN+.

The winner advances in the winner’s bracket, and the loser goes into a must-win Game 11. LSU has more postseason experience, but UCLA’s been on point during the tournament and hasn’t buckled. This one will be a close game between two teams that are capable of making a run for the title!

Keep scrolling to see all you need to know about the game, including the latest betting odds, and our picks for the best bets.

Game Details

• Matchup: UCLA Bruins vs. LSU Tigers
• Date & Time: Monday, June 16, at 7 p.m. ET
• Location: Charles Schwab Field, Omaha
• Broadcast: ESPN national broadcast
• Format: Game 8 – Winner’s Bracket matchup in Bracket 2 of the Men’s College World Series

Why This Match Matters

This is the first game of the tournament that has elimination stakes! The winner will stay in control of the bracket, and the loser goes into a do-or-die Game 11.

LSU comes with a solid postseason resume and seven national titles, which is more than any other team that’s left. UCLA is making its first Omaha appearance since 2013; they won the Big Ten and have started the College World Series with six straight wins.

Team-by-Team Breakdown

UCLA has built its game around pitching and control. LSU’s been more aggressive with power and tempo. What does each one bring into Game 7? Look below for a team comparison!

UCLA Bruins

LSU Tigers

Game Flow & Key Matchups

This projects as a tight game with limited scoring chances. Execution on the mound and in the box will decide it!

Starting Pitching

UCLA is expected to go with Ian May, who handled his last start with composure and has kept hitters off balance and off base. LSU lines up with ace Kade Anderson (11–1), who’s been good all season and hasn’t walked a lot of players. Early pitch efficiency will matter; neither team wants to go to its bullpen too soon.

Bullpen Usage

UCLA has gotten steady work from Easton Hawk and hasn’t needed long relief. LSU’s middle relievers haven’t logged that many innings in Omaha, but this could change if Anderson gets into trouble. The team that gets cleaner outs in the sixth and seventh will probably take control.

Offensive Contrast

LSU has more home run power, and it’s led by Jared Jones and Tommy White. UCLA spreads its offense around with singles, walks, hit-and-run looks, and aggressive baserunning. If the long ball isn’t there? LSU might have to manufacture more than usual.

Experience vs. Urgency

LSU has a lot of postseason familiarity, so they know what it feels like. UCLA hasn’t played in Omaha since 2013, but its energy and execution haven’t slipped. They’ve played good baseball and handled scoreboard pressure really well.

Betting Outlook & Odds

If you’re betting on this NCAA matchup, here are the latest odds that are up on FanDuel:

CWS Futures

• LSU: +225 to WIN it all (30.8% implied probability) 
• UCLA: +900 (10.0%)

Props to Consider

• Total College World Series runs: Forecasts are leaning under in games with top-end starters and strong bullpen scenarios, which is based on how the bracket has played out so far.
• Jared Jones Anytime Home Run: A strong bet, as he leads the team with 20 homers and 70 RBIs!

Best Bets for UCLA vs. LSU

This game has two really strong starters, experienced bullpens, and postseason-tested lineups. Our best bets include three picks and a prop!

Prediction & Closing Thoughts: UCLA vs. LSU

This is a critical spot in the bracket. Why? Because the winner will be one step closer to the finals. And the loser drops into an elimination game without a chance to rest and not a lot of room to manage arms.

The matchup tracks as a pitcher’s game. Ian May and Kade Anderson are both capable of going six-plus innings, and neither team has been giving up easy runs. Offense will probably come down to which lineup manages to get an extra-base hit or capitalizes on a defensive mistake.

LSU has the advantage in tournament experience and rotation depth, and the total looks like it stays under, so there’s solid value in targeted props like a Jared Jones RBI or UCLA team total under 4.5!

Don’t forget to check sportsbooks for updates as the elimination bracket changes and to confirm starting pitchers!

Final Score Prediction: LSU 4, UCLA 2

May and Anderson should keep it close during the early frames. LSU has the advantage if they get into UCLA’s bullpen; Jones or White are the most likely to bring in runs.

If the outcome shifts? It’ll happen in the seventh or eighth inning, when LSU matches up against arms that don’t have the same control or pitch repertoire.

Looking to place a bet on this pivotal MCWS game but not sure where to get started? Check out our recommendations for the most trusted online betting sites to find competitive odds and quick payouts.

Indiana Pacers vs. OKC Thunder Game 5 Prediction & Top Bets (June 16, 2025)

Our heads are spinning from all of the back-and-forth in the NBA Finals. Game 5 is going back to Oklahoma City for Monday’s game, and the series is now tied 2-2 after four alternating battles. 

The Thunder pulled out a 111-104 win on Friday to tie it up, which only reinforced the seesaw pattern of victories. Oklahoma City has gone 9-2 at home during the playoff run, and Indiana has posted a solid 7-3 mark on the road.

OKC is now the favorite to win the whole thing by a healthy margin of 9.5. Can they do it? Will the Pacers prove everyone wrong and take the lead? We have a lot of thoughts, and you can find them below, along with a series recap, betting odds, trends, our best bets, and final score prediction!

Game Details

• Matchup: Indiana Pacers vs. OKC Thunder
• Series Status: Tied 2-2
• Date & Time: Monday, June 16, at 8:30 p.m. ET
• Location: Paycom Center, Oklahoma City, OK
• Broadcast: ABC
• Streaming: Sling, DirecTV Stream, Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, and Fubo

Series So Far – What’s Changed

The Finals are tied 2–2, and each team has won every other game so far. Every matchup has come down to certain adjustments: late-game decisions, defensive pressure, or bench scoring. Here’s a recap of the first four:

• Game 1 went to Indiana after Haliburton buried a step-back over Lu Dort in the final seconds.
• Game 2 shifted toward Oklahoma City, which forced 17 turnovers, controlled the boards, and pulled away for a 16-point win.
• Game 3 was really close until the closing stretch. The Pacers outscored OKC 13–6 in the final five minutes, with McConnell and Jackson making key plays off the bench.
• Game 4 went back to the Thunder, who used a 12–2 third-quarter run to create separation. Shai led with 26 points, and OKC held the lead the rest of the way in a 111–104 win.

Game Flow & Prediction

Oklahoma City will likely push the pace from the ball drop by getting downhill in transition, attacking off misses, and trying to disrupt Indiana’s defensive shape before it’s in place. That’s been their go-to at home all postseason. The Pacers usually slow things down as the game goes on, favoring controlled possessions and letting Haliburton or McConnell dictate tempo in the halfcourt.

The first half should stay close; both teams will trade short runs. OKC has consistently pulled ahead in the third quarter throughout the series, using that window to shift the momentum. But if Indiana keeps it close heading into the fourth? They’ve been way more composed in those final minutes with quality looks, managing the clock, and forcing defensive stops when it counts.

Betting Odds & Prop Trends

Want to throw down some cash on Game 5? Look below for the latest odds, lines, and prop bets via DraftKings:

Prop Bets

• Shai Gilgeous‑Alexander Over 24.5 Points: SGA’s averaged over 32 at home this series and tied Wilt Chamberlain’s home playoff streak with 30+ in nine straight games. This line is really well-supported!
• Chet Holmgren Under 8.5 Rebounds: Holmgren is looking at fatigue risk, and while he’s grabbing ~7–9 per game, he’s more likely to hover just under 8.5 in this bounce-back spot.
• Isaiah Hartenstein Under 7.5 Points: He’s been limited offensively in rotation, concentrating instead on screens, rebounds, and spacing, and that keeps his scoring on the low end.

Our Best Bets for Game 5 – Pacers vs. Thunder

What are we looking at wager-wise? Below are our picks for the four best bets!

Can the Thunder Defend Home Court? Here’s Our Call

The Finals are back at the Paycom Center and tied at 2–2. Every game has come down to late possessions, and neither team holds momentum for long. Game 5 gives OKC a chance to change the series, but Indiana has shown us that they can hold up when they’re on the road.

We’re backing SGA Over 28.5 points. Why? Because he’s been the best scorer in the series and continues to get high-percentage looks when it counts. Haliburton Over 9.5 assists also stays on the board. His usage hasn’t dropped, and the ball goes through him every time Indiana settles into a halfcourt set.

The number we (and everyone else) like the most is Pacers +9.5. They’ve covered this line in three of four games and have kept things close even when the offense stalls. Oklahoma City might take the win, but the margin projects to stay inside double digits unless one side completely falls apart.

If you’re targeting any of the bets above, move early in the day! Props and spreads have changed closer to tip-off in every game this series, and if you wait, it usually means worse numbers!

Our Final Score Prediction: Thunder 112 – Pacers 107

Oklahoma City comes out on top in a close finish at home, but Indiana covers the spread. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Tyrese Haliburton will both put up strong numbers, and the game will probably be decided in the final minutes of the fourth quarter!

What Are ‘Loss Rebates’ and How to Use Them Without Getting Burned

Loss rebates on a gambling site? If you lose your money you get it back? Say more! Sounds good, doesn’t it? A safety harness that secures you if your luck runs thin while you’re betting.

The loss rebate is pitched to players like this: “If you lose, we’ll give you money back!” Say less! But we can’t say less, because the reality is that the promotions are way more nuanced and complicated. They do sound like you’re getting free insurance, but the fine print strikes again. And if you don’t know the terms, it’s a trap.

The concept is simple enough: casinos advertise cashback or “loss-back” offers so you’ll bet knowing that some of your losses might be refunded.

With a typical 10% cashback deal, it means if you lose $100, you’d get $10 back. But it’s not simple. Unlike cash insurance, almost all loss rebates are given as bonus credits or under super strict conditions. That means the refunded amount isn’t cash that you can withdraw.

So why do gambling sites offer them? And if they aren’t what they claim to be, what even are they? We’ll unpack the catches, like wagering requirements, time limits, and psychological downsides that turn what looks like a friendly offer into a player trap. This is your definitive guide and decoder for rebate-speak so that you can learn the rules and use the rebates, not regret them.

What Is a Loss Rebate?

A loss rebate, which is also called a cashback or loss-back bonus, is a promo where a casino or sportsbook agrees to refund a portion of your losses over a specified period. It’s a way to “lose back” money you just lost. Rebates take many forms, from a percentage of weekly losses to a 100% refund on your first day. The main feature is that the bonus only kicks in if you lose money.

Some casinos promise players, “If you’re down after 24 hours, we’ll give you back 100% of your net losses up to $1,000 in site credit.” FanDuel Casino has exactly this: any net loss on your first day is refunded as a casino bonus up to $1,000. Another common form is risk-free bets in sportsbooks: This gives new users a “First Bet” insurance, so if your first wager loses, you get the stake back as bonus credits (up to $1,500).

A loss rebate is like partial insurance on your play. You never get money back on a winning bet (that would just be a normal win!), but when the odds go against you, the site gives you back a portion. It could be 100% of one day’s losses, or a smaller percentage (say 5-20%) of losses over a week. The refunded amount is not cash given to you; it comes as site credit or “bonus bets” that have to be wagered before you can withdraw. It sounds like free money, but in practice, it’s a conditional bonus.

Loss rebate = “insurance” on your play. You lose, you get some back. But don’t confuse it with a gift! The platforms hope that the rebate keeps you betting for longer. It pushes you to keep playing or locks you into more wagering, ergo playing right into their hands.

Types of Loss Rebates

Online casinos and sportsbooks all use loss rebates in different ways. They come in several basic flavors, and each with its own rules. The following are the most common types of rebate promotions you’ll encounter:

How Do They Work?

• Calculation: Based on net losses during the specified period.
• Crediting: Typically awarded as bonus funds with wagering requirements.
• Eligibility: May require a minimum loss amount to qualify.

• Caesars Rewards: Offers tier and reward credits across 60+ properties and online platforms, and are redeemable for free play, hotel stays, and dining.
• Unibet’s Rakeback System: Valid for both sports betting and casino, allowing players to ‘rake’ back between 10% and 51% of wagered stakes. This VIP program is invite-only, and it’s based on activity levels.

How It Works:

• Tiered Structure: Higher tiers offer better cashback percentages and additional perks.
• Eligibility: Typically based on wagering activity and may be by invitation.
• Additional Benefits: May include personal account managers, faster withdrawals, and exclusive event invitations.

• FanDuel Casino: Offers up to $1,000 back in casino bonus on any first-day net loss. The bonus funds are subject to a 1x wagering requirement.
• Golden Nugget Online Casino: Provides a lossback offer where players get a percentage of their net losses back, and it’s credited in casino credits or bonus funds at the end of the promotional period.

How One-Time Welcome Loss Rebates Work:

• Duration: Typically valid for the first 24 hours or initial play session.
• Crediting: Refunds are usually in the form of bonus funds with specific wagering requirements.
• Purpose: Designed to attract new players by decreasing the risk of initial losses.

Why Casinos Offer Loss Rebates

From the casino’s perspective, rebates are a really clever marketing tool and retention strategy, and serve both business and psychological purposes.

8 Hidden Risks: How Players Get Burned

Rebates look friendly and harmless, but they come with a lot of strings that can leave you worse off if you’re not careful. Now it’s time to see all of the  “gotchas” that can get an unwary player!

How to Use Loss Rebates the Smart Way

Loss rebates can take the yikes out of a bad session, but only if you use them with discipline. Below are ten actionable ways to take advantage of the offers without falling victim to the traps that usually come with them!

Conclusion: Don’t Let a Rebate Become a Regret

Loss rebates sound really good on paper, and don’t set us wrong, they can be useful! But they are in no way a get-out-of-jail-free card. They won’t erase bad bets or undo tilt. If you use them as a tool and not as a solution, they can help stretch your bankroll out and take some of the “ouch” out of a bad day.

Just keep your expectations in check! Read the terms. Don’t chase losses hoping to “make the most” of the offer. And most importantly? Always stay within your limits. Rebates are built to keep you playing, and that’s fine. But make sure that you are playing on your terms, not on theirs.

Look below for a quick refresher on loss rebates: 

• Loss rebates can soften a bad run, but they’re not a safety net that you should depend on!
• Always read the fine print, as almost all of them come with a lot of strings attached.
• Only use rebates as part of a structured and intentional betting plan.
• If you remain disciplined, they can add value without pulling you off track.

LSU vs. Arkansas Prediction (June 14, 2025) – Men’s College World Series

LSU and Arkansas meet Saturday night in a game that looks more like it’s a semifinal than an opener! Arkansas comes in at 48–13 with the highest team batting average in the field and a roster that hasn’t dropped one postseason game.

LSU is 48–15 and brings one of the strongest starting staffs in Omaha. They’re led by Kade Anderson, who is a likely top-3 pick with 163 strikeouts in 103 innings.

There’s no easing into the bracket with this game;  one program gets a chance to be in control. The other? They end up in the loser’s bracket after a single game. No pressure or anything!

Keep scrolling to see all you need to know about this matchup, including team stats, how the pitchers compare, betting odds, and our picks for the best bets!

Game Details

• Matchup: LSU Tigers vs. Arkansas Razorbacks
• Date & Time: Saturday, June 14, at 7 p.m. ET
• Location: Charles Schwab Field, Omaha
• Broadcast: ESPN primetime coverage, SEC rivals headline opening night
• Format: Double-elimination bracket, winner gets strategic advantage

Team Snapshot

Arkansas hasn’t trailed in a postseason game and keeps producing at the plate without giving up much of anything defensively. LSU relies on high-strikeout arms and extra-base power to shift game outcomes. The teams have different styles but the same endgame, and here’s how they match up!

Arkansas Razorbacks (48–13)

LSU Tigers (48–15)

Pitching Matchup

LSU has the more explosive starter; Kade Anderson struck out 12 over seven scoreless innings in the Super Regional and hasn’t allowed more than two earned runs in a start since mid-May. Arkansas is expected to counter with Zach Root, who gave up three runs across 5.1 innings in his last outing and hasn’t pitched into the seventh since April. If he falters in the first few innings, Arkansas will probably go to the bullpen by the fourth.

LSU Projected Starter: Kade Anderson (10–1, 3.51 ERA)

Anderson is on regular rest after throwing seven innings with 12 strikeouts and no walks in the Super Regional. He leads all remaining starters in strikeouts and has allowed only two earned runs over his last three outings. If LSU holds him, Anthony Eyanson (11–2, 2.74 ERA) is the likely Game 1 option; he’s more contact-heavy but tough to square up.

Arkansas Projected Starter: Zach Root (8–5, ~3.60 ERA)

Root doesn’t overpower hitters but locates well and changes speeds. He’s gone at least five innings in all of his last four starts. Arkansas may also use multiple relievers; seven different pitchers have logged postseason innings, and they’ve allowed only five total runs in those five games.

Key Storylines

These two have seen each other before, so they know what’s coming. The starters, depth, game management, and late-inning execution all play a part.

• Season Series: LSU took 2 of 3 from Arkansas in March, including a 9–2 win in Game 3. Anderson pitched five shutout innings in that series.
• Postseason Form: Arkansas is 5–0 this postseason and has allowed just six total runs. LSU has scored 38 over its last five games and hit nine home runs during that stretch.
• Bullpen Usage: Arkansas has used seven different relievers in the postseason, with none throwing more than 3.1 innings. LSU’s bullpen has covered 17.2 innings over five games with a 1.52 ERA, most of that behind Eyanson and two late-game arms.

Betting Odds

Pricing is tight! There is very little separation between sides, and the books aren’t leaning heavily one way or the other, and the totals suggest a moderate scoring range. Here are the latest odds and lines according to ESPN BET:

Any late shift will likely come down to confirmed starters. As of now, it looks like it is one of the most evenly matched games on the Day 1 slate.

Best Bets

Ready for what we are looking at in terms of value? Look below for our two best bets and a prop!

Our Prediction & Final Thoughts

Final Score Prediction: LSU 5, Arkansas 4

LSU gets five solid innings from Anderson, scratches across a run in the seventh, and closes it out with two clean relief frames. Arkansas puts runners on late but can’t break through.

Arkansas has looked really good in the postseason, but they haven’t had to deal with an arm like Anderson. LSU has already beaten them twice this year and comes in with a better rotation setup for a game like this; they have clear roles, defined matchups, and more swing-and-miss potential.

Arkansas brings better contact numbers, but LSU can change a game with a single at-bat. If Anderson gives them a strong five or six, and Eyanson gets the ball after that? It’s a formula that’s worked across multiple elimination games.

This probably won’t be a runaway win. But if it turns into a bullpen game? LSU definitely has the arms to end it.

New England Revolution vs. FC Cincinnati Prediction (June 14, 2025)

Cincinnati heads to Gillette Stadium with the best road record in MLS: five wins in their last six away matches and only four goals allowed in that span. They’ve been really well-organized without the ball and clinical when chances open up.

Their opponents? New England is at the bottom of the Eastern Conference and hasn’t scored more than once in a match since the middle of May.

Carles Gil has been off rhythm, and the front line has been misfiring, so New England’s been relying on set pieces and low-percentage shots. And Cincinnati’s defensive structure doesn’t leave very much room for those tactics to amount to anything.

The Revolution has picked up points in four of their last five home matches against Cincinnati, so if they manage to slow down the flanks and keep Cincinnati from stretching the field, they at least have a shot at keeping it close!

Keep scrolling for all the info on this soccer match, betting odds, and what we think are the best bets for New England Revolution vs. FC Cincinnati.

Match Essentials

• Fixture: New England Revolution (Home) vs. FC Cincinnati (Away)
• Date & Time: Saturday, June 14, at 7:30 p.m. ET
• Location: Gillette Stadium, Foxborough, MA
• Competition: MLS regular season
• Weather: Possible showers, high ~67°F, low ~52°F
• Broadcast: MLS Season Pass on Apple TV + radio details

Recent Form & Head‑to‑Head

Here’s a read on how both teams are trending going into Saturday’s game and what their recent matchups tell us!

• New England Revolution: 2 wins in last 6; scored 8, conceded 11 during that stretch
• FC Cincinnati: Unbeaten in last 5 overall; 2–0–1 record at home this season
• Head-to-Head: New England leads all-time series 6–3–3
• Recent Matchups: Cincinnati has earned points in 3 of their last 4 visits to Gillette Stadium
• Trend to Watch: Both teams have scored in 7 of the last 9 meetings

Team News & Tactics

One of these teams is still trying to patch up holes, and the other knows how it wants to play. Below is how New England and Cincinnati are lining up tactically.

Tactical Match‑up

• Midfield control: Gil and Yueill will try to slow things down and control the ball, but Cincinnati’s pairing of Evander and Orellano is super aggressive; they move the ball forward fast and aren’t afraid to take risks through the middle.
• Defensive impact: Ivačič has kept New England in games with smart positioning and good reads. On the other side, Miles Robinson has been stepping into passing lanes and cutting off wide service before it turns into problems.

Betting Outlook

Hey, soccer fans! If you’re betting on this one, here are the latest odds and lines courtesy of FanDuel:

• Moneyline: Revolution –122, Cincinnati +102 
• Total Goals: Around 3 (Over/Under ~2.5–3.0) 

Stat‑Driven Angles

• New England’s lack of finishing: Only 18.3 expected goals this season, which is the worst in MLS 
• Defensive clean sheets: Six shutouts in 13 games, meaning that they’ve prevented goals 46.7% of the time

Our Best Bets

We are looking at three pretty good angles in terms of best bets:

X‑Factor Players

Watch this space; Gil drives the attack, and Robinson shuts it down. How they play will affect how the match goes! 

Carles Gil (New England Revolution)

• Gil leads the team with 2.5 chances created per game, ranking first in MLS for this metric.
• His season stat line: 6 goals and 4 assists in 15 matches; good for 0.53 goal contributions per 90 and top‑25 % in npxG‑per‑90 league‑wide.
• In May’s second half, he hit a new personal best with 11 chances created, showing his ability to produce when the pressure’s on.

Miles Robinson (FC Cincinnati)

• Robinson has 33 MLS appearances for Cincinnati since joining last season, and he’s been pivotal in defensive and aerial battles.
• His USMNT record includes 15 (or 27 according to some reports) senior caps and scoring the winning goal in the 2021 Gold Cup final.
• He ranks second in MLS in duel success rate (≈67 %) with Atlanta before joining FC Cincinnati; Robinson is a rock in the back line who’s capable of turning defense into attack.

Revolution vs. FC Cincinnati: Our Prediction

Final Score Prediction: FC Cincinnati 2 – 1 New England Revolution

The Revolution can’t seem to find a groove even on their home pitch, and they’re not creating enough to stay competitive. Cincinnati doesn’t overextend; they pick their spots, move the ball well, and finish off with control. If this one slows down in the second half, Cincinnati’s midfield should take over.

Rain is expected, so the ball will move faster on the ground, and footing could be trickier. That favors the side with better spacing and fewer mistakes in transition, and that’s Cincinnati.

• Best value bet: FC Cincinnati ML
• Highest confidence pick: Both Teams to Score

If this is a game you’re looking to place a wager on, be sure to check out our recommended soccer betting apps for an easy and convenient way to get your bets in.