What Is a Futures Bet?

A futures bet is a broad classification of long-term wagers that is typically resolved weeks, months, or even years in the future. 

Futures betting markets contrast with more typical straight bets, like point spreads or moneylines, which are single-game wagers that are often resolved in the near term. 

At the BetMGM online sportsbook, bettors can wager on which team will win the Super Bowl odds, Heisman Trophy odds, college basketball national championship odds, and more.

Any wager on those long-term markets would be examples of futures bets. 

How to Calculate Futures Payouts

Because futures markets typically involve forecasting events far in the future, a successful futures bet may pay out a far greater return than many other kinds of bets. A typical single-game underdog could pay +300, while a typical futures bet could pay +3000.

Let’s say you bet on Mike Tomlin to win in the NFL Coach of the Year odds market at +2500. A successful $20 bet would return your $20 plus $500 in winnings.

Futures betting can be very difficult, but also very profitable!