What Is A Trap Game? Sports Betting Terms Explained

Last Updated:
If you are familiar with sports betting at all you may have heard the term “trap game” before. Trap game is a widely used term for sports betters to define a certain type of game and or bet they have come across. In this article we will define a trap game, and help you answer the question “what is a trap game”?
In sports betting, the term “trap game” describes a scenario where a favored team is at risk of an unexpected loss, often due to factors like fatigue, injuries, or distractions.

Understanding Trap Games

A trap game occurs when a stronger team faces a seemingly weaker opponent but is vulnerable to an upset. This vulnerability can stem from:

  • Fatigue: Playing multiple games in a short period can lead to exhaustion, affecting performance.
  • Injuries: The absence of key players can weaken a team’s overall ability.
  • Distractions: Looking ahead to more critical games may result in a lack of focus on the current match.

These factors can cause a favored team to underperform, leading to an unexpected loss.

Betting Strategies for Trap Games

When betting on potential trap games:

  • Research Thoroughly: Analyze team schedules, player statuses, and recent performances.
  • Consider the Underdog: In trap games, underdogs may offer value due to the favorite’s vulnerabilities.
  • Monitor Line Movements: Significant shifts can indicate changing perceptions of a game’s outcome.

Employing these strategies can enhance betting decisions in trap game situations.

Finding Opportunities

For astute bettors, a trap game can present opportunities. Here’s how:

  • Betting on the Underdog: Since most bets tend to favor the expected winner, odds for the underdog may become more enticing. Betting on the underdog can yield substantial returns if an upset occurs.
  • Thorough Research: Analyzing team conditions, recent performances, injuries, and historical data can help bettors identify potential trap games.
  • Exercise Caution: While trap games can be profitable, not all upsets occur. It’s vital to balance the opportunity with caution and perform comprehensive research and analysis before making betting decisions.

Example of a trap game

To help you understand what a trap game is we’ll go over a trap game example.

A notable example of a trap game occurred during the 2013 NFL season when the New England Patriots faced the Houston Texans. The Patriots were coming off a significant 34-31 overtime victory against the Denver Broncos, where they overcame a 24-0 deficit. The following week, they were heavily favored to win against the struggling Texans. However, the Patriots exhibited a lethargic performance in the first half, trailing 17-7 at halftime. Although they managed to secure a 34-31 win by the end, they failed to cover the 7-point spread, exemplifying how a favored team can underperform in a trap game scenario.

This instance highlights the importance for bettors to recognize potential trap games, where a team’s prior emotional victory or anticipation of future significant matches can lead to a lack of focus against ostensibly weaker opponents.

Conclusion – Understanding a Trap Game

In conclusion, understanding the concept of a trap game can be a valuable asset in your sports betting strategy. It involves recognizing situations where the odds may not accurately reflect the team’s chances of winning due to various factors. By conducting thorough research and remaining vigilant, you can seize opportunities to bet on underdogs and potentially enjoy significant returns when the unexpected happens. Remember, while trap games can be enticing, responsible betting and informed decisions should always be the priority for a successful sports betting experience.

Looking for more information about the best sportsbooks offers? Go to our list of the top sportsbook promotions in your state.

Betting Hero Help Center

Eamonn KeenanEamonn Keenan
Eamonn Keenan, with a Digital Arts Degree from the University of Tampa, brings over a decade of sports betting experience to his role as Creative Director at BettingHero.com. Starting with Betting Hero in the Fall of 2020, Eamonn has been deeply involved in the industry, assisting customers with major sportsbook and casino operators like BetMGM, Caesars, DraftKings, and others. A self-proclaimed sports fanatic, he has a keen interest in professional hockey, MMA, NFL, NCAAB, NCAAF, and MLB. Eamonn enjoys researching teams and players to predict game outcomes, highlighting his passion for sports betting.