NFL 1st Half Lines Betting: NFL Odds, Spread, and Strategies for 2024

Betting  and making NFL picks on just the first half of an NFL game requires a different approach compared to betting the full game. The first 30 minutes set the stage for how the rest of the contest will play out. By analyzing teams' first-half stats, trends, and lines, you can find valuable betting opportunities. This guide will teach you everything you need to know about NFL first-half betting for the 2024 NFL season.

The first half is crucial in an NFL game. This is when critical in-game adjustments are made, and momentum often shifts one way or the other. You can capitalize by zeroing in on advantageous first-half lines and odds. There are many bet types to consider, like spreads, totals, NFL props, and more. Let's break down how to bet the NFL's first half like a pro!

Why Bet the 1st Half Spread of an NFL Game?

Wagering specifically on the first half has some key advantages:

• Better odds: First-half lines tend to be softer than full-game lines. More potential value.
• Momentum shifts: The first 30 minutes often dictate the game's tenor and outcome.
• In-game adjustments: coaches make critical tweaks at halftime that change strategies.
• Limit variance: removes late-game "garbage time" yards and points that can skew results.
• Change bad beats: avoid bad backdoor covers or last-second scores that flip a wager.
• More options: Numerous bet types like totals, and props are only available for the first half.

Key Bet Types for the NFL 1st Half

Some of the main first-half wager types to consider are:

• First-half spread: Bet on a team covering the spread just for the first half.
• First-half moneyline: simply picking which team wins the first half outright.
• First half total: wager on the Over/Under for combined points scored in the first half.
• First-half props: player or game props based on performance only in the opening half.
• First half results: Bet on outcomes like which team will lead at halftime.
• First-half parlays: combine multiple first-half bets together to multiply the payout.

Tips for Betting 1st Half NFL Odds 

      - Follow these tips when betting first-half point spreads, totals, and moneylines:

• Look for opening line value before the market adjusts closer to kickoff.
• Target teams starting backup QBs or with QB uncertainty due to injury
• Study past records between teams to spot lopsided recent results just in the first half.
• Fade teams with really poor first-half yardage and points per game averages.
• Back teams with a clear first-half scoring edge in a matchup
• Watch the forecast for bad weather that could stall early scoring.
• Be cautious with heavy favorites expected to pull starters later in blowouts.

How to Handicap NFL First Half: How to Wager

Handicapping opening halves requires digging into these key factors:

• 1H scoring offense/defense: points scored and allowed only in the first half.
• 1H yards totals: yards gained and given up per first half.
• 1H possessions: number of first-half drives and efficiency
• 1H time of possession: Which team controls the ball more in the early going?
• 1H passing/rushing: success at running and passing, specifically in the opening halves.
• Trends ATS: Team records against the first-half spread
• Rest situations: potential fatigue or energy edge coming off extra or less rest
• Previous meetings: how the matchup has gone in recent first-half showings

Profitable First Half Bets on NFL | NFL Strategies

Implement these strategic tips to improve your bottom line wagering on first halves:

• Bet unders on high first-half totals between high-scoring teams. Sportsbooks inflate them.
• Target bad weather games. Wind, rain, and snow disproportionately slow early scoring.
• Shop for the best line value across multiple sportsbooks using line shopping tools. Even half-points matter.
• Follow line moves. Wise guys often bet their first halves early.
• Buy or sell line moves depending on your side. Bet early if the public is likely to move the line against you.
• Leverage live betting during the first half to capitalize on changing game dynamics.

Key Takeaways for Betting First Halves

To recap, the major keys to NFL line first-half wagering success are:

• Softer lines and more valuable numbers compared to full-game betting
• The first 30 minutes dictate the flow and eventual outcome.
• Study stats and trends specifically related to teams' first-half performances.
• There are numerous betting options like totals, props, and more to take advantage of.
• Shop for the best line value and watch for early, sharp action.
• Make halftime live bets to maximize opportunities.

Now that you know how to approach NFL first-half betting, you'll be ready to win more wagers in 2023. Use this guide to make smarter bets!