2026 NFL betting guide: Everything you need to know to place your bets

Fear not, the 2026-27 NFL season is almost here.

The preseason is underway, and while you may not think the wagering season begins until the Seattle Seahawks host the New England Patriots on Wednesday, Sept. 9 (Seattle is a 3.5-point favorite), there can be plenty of value found betting on preseason games — if you know where to look.

But if you're just starting your prep for NFL season and looking to get a wager down on a few over/unders, take a flier on a team for the Super Bowl or learn about how much every NFL quarterback is actually worth to the point spread, we've got you covered as well.

Join or create a Yahoo Fantasy Football league for the 2026 NFL season

Here's everything you need to know to help with your betting this season.

13 tips for bettors before the season

Whether you're a beginning bettor who doesn't know a money line from a teaser, or you're a seasoned bettor looking to improve, Matt Russell gives some helpful tips for all levels of football bettors.

All 32 NFL starting QBs ranked by point-spread value

We spoke to 11 oddsmakers from 10 legal sportsbooks across the country and asked them for the difference in the point spread if the starting QB and backup (both healthy) were playing at home against a league-average team. Josh Allen has surpassed Patrick Mahomes as the clear No. 1 QB in the league against the number.

Preseason NFL betting isn't for degenerates: Why there is value and how to find it

You've heard the take everywhere: Preseason is for degenerates. The starters don't play, the football is ugly — just wait three weeks for the real thing. All of that is true. And it's the exact reason these games can be profitable for bettors. Our NFL handicapper gives his tips for betting preseason games to help bettors find value.

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ - AUGUST 15: Jaxson Dart #6 of the New York Giants during the pre-season game against the Minnesota Vikings on August 15, 2026 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Icon Sportswire via Getty ImagesBiggest Super Bowl 61 bets

The largest Super Bowl bet in terms of liability belongs to the New York Giants. One bettor stands to win over $2.3 million if Big Blue can win their first Super Bowl since 2012. We'll be tracking all the largest wagers all season.

Best bets for MVP, Offensive Rookie of the Year and more

There are a variety of NFL awards markets available for bettors from MVP to Coach of the Year to Offensive Player of the Year. Corbie Craig breaks down a few of the markets and gives his favorite wagers.

Two Week 1 bets to make right now

We're only a few weeks away from the opening game of the 2026-27 season, but NFL Week 1 lines have been out for several months. Here are a couple wagers Michael Fiddle would make right now.

Three over/under wagers we like

The Chicago Bears have been offseason darlings and own a win total of 9.5. Michael Fiddle is a fan of the under and explains why it's one of three season win total bets he likes at the moment.

Five best bets for marquee Game of the Year matchups

Our NFL handicapper gives five early bets he likes in some of the season's biggest games, including a wager on the total for the Week 1 Super Bowl rematch between the New England Patriots and Seattle Seahawks.