Identifying sharp money action involves recognizing certain patterns and behaviors that differentiate it from recreational, square money. Sharp money typically comes in early, often before public betting really ramps up, as professional bettors seek to lock in favorable lines. They tend to bet larger amounts on games where they perceive value based on their analysis, causing line adjustments that reveal their influence. Additionally, sharp money is often found on underdogs or less popular bets, contrasting with square money that frequently supports favorites and more mainstream options.