What Is Off the Board? Sports Betting Terms Explained

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Ever had a game you want to bet on but can’t find it on your sports betting app? The game you’re looking for may be “off the board” in sports betting. But what does it mean, and how does it impact your betting experience? In this article, we’ll unravel the significance of “Off the Board” and explore its role in sports wagering.

Defining “Off the Board” in Sports Betting

In sports betting, “Off the Board” is a phrase that sportsbooks use to indicate they are currently not accepting bets for a particular game or event. When sportsbooks take a game “Off the Board,” it temporarily renders the game unavailable for betting. This can happen for various reasons, such as unforeseen circumstances, injury concerns, or significant line movement.

Check out this example from the Kansas State vs Texas college football matchup on FanDuel. You’ll notice the lock icon by one of the margin of victory options below. This selection would be considered “off the board.”

what is off the board in sports betting, fanduel example.

Why Games Go “Off the Board”

  1. Injury Updates: One common reason for taking a game “Off the Board” in sports betting is when key players are injured or their status is uncertain. Sportsbooks want to ensure that all relevant information is available to bettors before reopening the betting for that game.
  2. Line Movement: Sometimes, rapid and significant line movement can lead to a game being temporarily removed from the betting board. This gives sportsbooks time to adjust the odds and prevent potential losses.
  3. Weather and Venue Issues: Weather-related factors or venue problems can also lead to games going “Off the Board.” Sportsbooks may temporarily halt betting until they resolve the situation if weather or other issues cause a change or delay in a game’s location.

Impact on Bettors

For bettors, the declaration of a game as “Off the Board” in sports betting means that they cannot place bets on that particular matchup until it is back on the board. While it can be frustrating for those looking to wager on the game, sportsbooks take this precautionary measure to maintain fairness and integrity in the betting process.

In conclusion, “Off the Board” is a term you may encounter while engaging in sports betting. It indicates that betting for a specific game or event is temporarily suspended. Understanding why games go “Off the Board” and the impact it has on bettors is essential for navigating the dynamics of sports wagering.

Next time you see a game “Off the Board,” know it’s a temporary measure for fairness and transparency in betting. Be patient, stay informed, and keep an eye on updates from sportsbooks to make informed betting decisions.

 

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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.