In American football, a field goal is one of the ways a team can score points. In sports betting, markets related to field goals are common, especially in NFL and college football games. Let’s break it down:
What is a Field Goal?
A field goal (FG) is a kick made from the field of play that passes between the opponent’s goalposts and over the crossbar. It is worth 3 points.
- Attempted typically on 4th down if scoring a touchdown seems difficult.
- Most field goals are from 20 to 50+ yards away.
- Success depends on the kicker’s skill, weather, and field position.
Types of Field Goal Betting Markets
Here are the most common field goal-related betting options:
1. Total Field Goals (Over/Under)
Bet on the total number of field goals scored by both teams combined.
Example:
Over 3.5 Field Goals – you win if 4 or more are made in the game.
Tip: Look at teams with strong kickers and red-zone struggles.
2. Team Total Field Goals
Bet on how many field goals one team will score.
Example:
Team A – Over 1.5 Field Goals means the team must make at least 2 field goals.
3. First Scoring Play – Field Goal
Bet on whether the first points of the game will come from a field goal.
Example:
First Score = Field Goal at odds of +300 (3.00).
Tip: Good for games between two strong defenses or teams with cautious offenses.
4. Longest/Shortest Field Goal
Bet on the length (in yards) of the longest or shortest successful field goal.
Example:
- Over 45.5 Yards – Longest FG
- Under 20.5 Yards – Shortest FG
Tip: Check kicker stats and stadium conditions (e.g., wind, turf).
5. Will a Field Goal Be Missed?
Bet on whether there will be at least one missed field goal in the game.
Example:
Yes @ 2.50 – you win if any field goal is missed.
Tip: Consider weather and kickers with low accuracy.
6. Field Goal in Each Quarter
Bet if there will be at least one field goal in each quarter.
Tip: Works better in games with efficient offenses but strong red-zone defenses.
Field Goal Betting Tips
- Research Kicker Performance
Check accuracy stats, average distances, and pressure performance.
2. Weather Matters
Wind, rain, and cold weather reduce FG success rate, especially for long kicks.
3. Game Script Analysis
Tight games with good defenses and low scoring often lead to more FG attempts.
4. Stadium Type
Indoor stadiums = better kicking conditions. Outdoor stadiums = more variance.
5. Team Tendencies
Some coaches prefer field goals over 4th-down attempts. Look at historical play-calling.
Example Betting Scenario
Game: New England Patriots vs. Baltimore Ravens
Market: Total Field Goals – Over 3.5 @ 1.85
- Both teams have good defenses and average red-zone efficiency.
- Kicker stats show both are over 85% accuracy.
- Game expected to be close with a lot of stalled drives.
Good Value Bet: YES
If you’d like, I can also help you analyze upcoming games for field goal bets or help you build a betting strategy.