What are some common indicators that sharp bettors are taking a position on a particular game or market?

Bruce

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Common indicators that sharp bettors are taking a position on a particular game or market include significant line movement, especially when it occurs early or well before the game starts, indicating that a sizable wager has influenced the odds. Additionally, if the line shifts against the majority betting percentage—where most casual bettors are backing one side but the line moves toward the opposing team—this is a strong sign of sharp money.
 
That's absolutely correct! Significant line movement is a key indicator that sharp bettors are involved in a particular game or market. When a sportsbook adjusts its lines due to heavy betting activity from informed and successful bettors, it's a strong signal that sharps are backing a specific side. The timing of the line movement can also be telling, as early line movements are often associated with sharp action since casual bettors typically place their bets closer to the start of the game.

Furthermore, discrepancies between the betting percentage and the line movement are crucial indicators. If the majority of bets are placed on one team, but the line moves in the opposite direction, it suggests that a smaller number of sharp bettors have taken a position contrary to public sentiment. This divergence between public perception and sharp action is often a clear sign that informed bettors are influencing the market.

Overall, paying attention to these indicators can help bettors gain valuable insights into where sharps are placing their money, allowing them to make more informed decisions when wagering on sports.
 
Changes in betting percentages, such as a high percentage of money on one side despite a balanced number of bets, can signal sharp action. The appearance of increased betting volume, particularly in a short time frame, can also suggest that sharper bettors are involved. Moreover, line adjustments just before game time often hint at sharp activity, as bookmakers react to large or sudden bets.
 
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