Futures Betting Guide
Futures bets are long-term wagers settled weeks or months later. Super Bowl odds, Saints win totals, Heisman Trophy markets; all futures. They tie up your bankroll until the market settles, but they're where the biggest underdog returns live.
How futures odds work
Futures odds reflect implied probability over the full season or event. Saints +1500 to win the Super Bowl means an implied probability around 6%. A $10 stake at +1500 pays $150 in profit if they win. Odds shorten as the season progresses and contenders separate from pretenders.
Most-bet futures markets in Louisiana
- NFL Super Bowl winner
- Saints season win total
- NFC South division winner
- NBA championship odds
- Pelicans season win total
- LSU football win total
- LSU SEC championship odds
- College Football Playoff odds
- NFL MVP / Offensive Rookie of the Year
- Heisman Trophy
When to bet futures
Early-season futures (June-July for NFL) carry the longest odds but the least information. Mid-season futures (October-November) have shorter odds but better signal. Sharp futures bettors look for asymmetric situations; for example, an injured-but-returning quarterback whose team's Super Bowl odds haven't adjusted to the news yet.
Hedging futures
If your futures ticket becomes a live contender (e.g. Saints are 2-0 in the playoffs heading into the Super Bowl), you can hedge by placing a counter-bet on the opponent to lock in guaranteed profit regardless of outcome.
FAQ
How long is my money tied up on a futures bet?
Until the market settles. NFL Super Bowl futures placed in July settle in February; about 7 months of locked capital.
Can I cash out a futures bet early?
Yes, most Louisiana sportsbooks let you cash out futures at any time at adjusted value, though the cash-out price is typically less than what you'd get by holding until settlement.