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Last updated: October 2026
A reverse bet is a combination of two conditional bets, also called “if bets,” where each selection can trigger a wager on the other selection. Unlike a standard two-team parlay, a reverse bet covers both betting sequences: the first selection followed by the second, and the second selection followed by the first.
Quick Answer: How Reverse Bets Work
A reverse bet combines two “if” wagers in opposite directions. If the first selection in either sequence wins, pushes, or is canceled under the applicable sportsbook rules, the next wager may be activated. This creates more possible outcomes than a standard parlay, but it does not guarantee a profit or eliminate losses.
To understand the strategy, consider how reverse bets work with two NFL point-spread selections, how the possible outcomes affect your bankroll, and when this approach may make sense compared with a standard parlay.
What Are Reverse Bets?
Consider a case where there are two NFL games on a betting board that we are interested in–The New York Giants (-4) vs. the New York Jets (+4) and the New Orleans Saints (-3) vs. the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (+3).
Now, supposedly we wanted to bet on the Jets (+4) and the Saints (-3) in a $100 2-team parlay, the payout would be $264.64 if both teams are successful, or we’d lose the full $100 stake if we either or both selections are unsuccessful.
Rather than take that risk, we can instead decide to place a reverse bet as follows:
- Bet #1 Jets (+4, -110) $50 to win $45.4545.
- If win, push, tie, or cancelled –Then: Saints (-3, -110) $50 to win $45.4545
- Bet #2 Saints (-3, -110) $50 to win $45.4545.
- If win, push, tie, or cancelled – Then: Jets (+4, -110) $50 to win $45.4545
With the two bets above placed together on the same ticket using the reverse bet wagering option, you minimize the chances of loss on both sides using the “double if bet” while encouraging the chances of better profitability if things don’t go according to plan on either side.
Reverse bets are one way to structure conditional wagers, but bettors should understand how other spread-based approaches work as well. Our guide to reversal trading spread strategies explains another approach to evaluating spread movements and betting decisions.
Potential Outcomes
The result of a reverse bet depends on which selections win or lose and whether the sportsbook activates the next wager after a push or cancellation. In a standard two-way reverse bet with two $50 conditional sequences, the general outcomes are:
- Both selections win: Both betting sequences can complete successfully, generating winnings from the activated wagers, subject to the odds and stake structure.
- Both selections lose: The initial wagers in both sequences lose, and neither sequence progresses to a winning second wager.
- One selection wins and the other loses: One sequence may produce a winning wager while the other loses its initial wager and may not activate its second wager. The final result depends on the sequence structure and sportsbook settlement rules.
- A selection pushes or is canceled: The sportsbook’s rules determine whether the next wager is activated, whether the stake is returned, or how the sequence is settled.
Before placing a reverse bet, calculate the possible net results using the actual odds, stakes, and conditional-wager rules offered by your sportsbook. A reverse bet can change the distribution of possible outcomes, but it does not automatically lower the expected loss.
Should You Use or Avoid Reverse Bets?
A reverse bet can take some practice to understand, so start by comparing how its conditional wagers work against a standard parlay. The best option depends on the odds, stake, potential payout, and sportsbook settlement rules.
A reverse bet covers two betting sequences in opposite directions. This can produce a different range of outcomes than a standard parlay, but it does not guarantee a lower expected loss or protect your bankroll from losing wagers.
For example, suppose you want to bet on the New York Jets (+4, -110) and New Orleans Saints (-3, -110), with $50 allocated to each selection.
| Betting Structure | How It Works | Potential Result |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Parlay | A $50 parlay requires both selections to win for the parlay to pay out. | At -110 odds for each leg, the combined decimal odds are approximately 3.31. A winning $50 parlay returns about $165.29, including the original stake. If either leg loses, the parlay generally loses. |
| Reverse Bet | Two conditional sequences are placed: Jets first, then Saints; and Saints first, then Jets. Each sequence starts with a $50 wager. | If both selections win, all four $50 wagers can be settled as winners across the two sequences. The net profit depends on how the sportsbook structures and settles the reverse bet. |
The key difference is that a standard parlay requires both selections to win, while a reverse bet creates two conditional sequences. If only one selection wins, the reverse bet may still have a winning wager, but the other sequence can lose its initial stake. Always calculate the net result across both sequences rather than looking at winning wagers alone.
Before choosing a betting structure, review the fundamentals in our Betting Academy to understand odds, payouts, and the risks attached to different types of wagers.
It is also important to check the sportsbook rules before placing conditional wagers. Rules for pushes, cancellations, and qualifying outcomes can affect whether the next wager is activated and how the ticket is settled.
Conclusion
Choosing between a reverse bet and a standard parlay comes down to the wager structure, potential payout, and risk you are willing to accept. Compare the possible net outcomes before placing either type of bet, and make sure you understand how conditional wagers are settled.
If you have questions about reverse bets, review the sportsbook’s betting rules before wagering. Always consider the full stake at risk rather than assuming that a more complex betting structure offers a better chance of long-term profit.
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Important: Sports betting involves risk. No strategy guarantees results, and managing exposure is essential.
About the Author
Henry Watkins is a Sports Writer at MyBookie. Originally from Scotland and currently residing in Metro Atlanta with his wife, Penny, Henry covers competitive and professional sports as well as the business of sports. In addition to his sports writing, he is an author of horror fiction, including Karaoke Night, Crueller, and Off The Grid.
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