College Football Prop Bets: How to Bet Beyond the Basics

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Football fans know the thrill of game day, and betting enthusiasts understand the extra rush it brings.

While traditional betting focuses on point spreads and moneylines, prop bets—short for proposition bets—offer a fun and creative way to engage with college football.

Whether you’re new to betting or have been doing it for a while, this guide will help you understand prop bets.

What Are Prop Bets?

Unlike standard bets, prop bets allow you to wager on specific events or occurrences within a game. These can range from individual player performances to team-specific stats, and they often include those unpredictable moments that make football unforgettable.

For example:

● Individual Player Props: Bet on how many passing yards a quarterback will throw or how many touchdowns a running back will score.

● Team Props: Wager on the number of first downs a team will achieve or whether they will score in every quarter.

● Game Props: Predict quirky outcomes like whether the first play will be a run or pass or whether the game will go into overtime.

Prop bets make the game dynamic and give you more ways to win while watching your favorite teams compete.

Types of College Football Prop Bets

Prop bets for college football are as diverse as the sport itself. Below are the most popular categories:

1. Player Props

Player props focus on the individual achievements of players during the game. Some popular examples include:

● Total passing yards for the quarterback

● Number of rushing yards by a star running back

● Receiving yards for a standout wide receiver

These bets are perfect for fans who follow key players closely throughout the season.

2. Team Props

Team props allow you to bet on overall team performance. A few examples are:

● Total points scored by a specific team

● Whether a team will score a touchdown in the first quarter

● Total number of turnovers by a team

College football playoffs offer some of the most exciting opportunities for team prop bets due to the high stakes, unpredictable outcomes, and potential for memorable game-changing moments. Betting on playoff games lets fans engage deeply by predicting pivotal team performances such as total points scored, turnovers forced, or key player contributions.

3. Game Props

Game props include broader events that unfold over the course of the game. These bets usually add a level of unpredictability, such as:

● Will there be a defensive or special team touchdown?

● Over/under on the length of the longest field goal

● Will either team exceed 40 points?

Game props draw you into the details of a matchup, making every play feel like a potential game-changer.

4. Season Props

Though less common, some sportsbooks like FanDuel offer season-long props. These include predictions like:

● Total wins for a specific team during the season

● Whether a team will make it to the college football playoffs

● Awards for standout players, such as the Heisman Trophy winner

Season props require more patience, but they often deliver big payouts.

Why Bet on College Football Prop Bets?

Prop bets are a favorite among college sports fans because they offer variety and entertainment. Here’s why you might love them too:

1. Adds Excitement to Any Game

Even if your team isn’t in the game, prop bets can make a boring matchup exciting, giving you that true NCAAF experience. A bet on the number of completions by a quarterback or the total interceptions in a game adds new layers of engagement.

2. Showcase Your Knowledge

If you follow player stats or understand college football trends, prop bets allow you to apply what you know in unique ways. For example, you might bet on a specific running back exceeding 100 rushing yards based on a weak opposing defense.

3. Less Dependent on Game Outcomes

Traditional bets often tie your success to whether a team wins or loses. With prop bets, your wagers can succeed regardless of the overall game result, making it a great option for casual bettors.

Tips for Betting on College Football Prop Bets

When placing prop bets, don’t just rely on your instincts. Use these tips to improve your strategy:

● Research: Look into team and player statistics to identify trends. For instance, a quarterback going up against a weak secondary might be a prime candidate for passing yard props.

● Understand Matchups: Analyze how teams’ strengths and weaknesses align with prop bet options. For example, a team known for strong defensive plays might make a turnover prop appealing.

● Watch for Value: Look for bets that offer better odds in areas you’re knowledgeable about—whether it’s rushing yards or total touchdowns.

● Set a Budget: Prop bets are fun, but it's important to manage your bankroll wisely. Bet only what you can afford to lose.