Golf Betting

Golf betting doesn't bring in a handle like football or basketball, but it is quickly becoming one of the most popular wagers at sportsbooks - especially during the dog days of summer, which can limit sports bettors to just a handful of options.

Just like when wagering on any team sport, golf betting has its own backstory that sharp bettors must consider. Current play, weather, and even injuries can all play a part in how a tournament finishes, and even the world's No. 1 player is a factor golf bettors must consider.

Here are some handy tips for betting on the links . . .

Tiger effect

There's never been a bigger name in golf – and maybe all of sports – than Tiger Woods. After years of success, and the fame that goes along with it, the golf betting odds on Woods usually come with a price. Any tournament Tiger attends draws more action, and oddsmakers will always tag him as the sportsbook favorite.

While laying money on Woods is never a bad bet, finding value in the golfers behind him can be more profitable. Even big names like Phil Mickelson and Geoff Ogilvy will come at discount prices when Woods is on the course.

And if the temptation to bet Tiger is too large, holding off until the second or third round is a better strategy. Woods is notorious for his later-round heroics and will provide better value if he is trailing after the first or second day.

Current play

The first thing any bettor should consider is how a golfer is playing heading into a tournament. Just like any other sport, golfers can get hot and cold. Keeping an eye on the leaderboards for past events may not be enough.

Sharp golf bettors are watching events and reading as much on possible plays as they can. There is enough coverage of professional tours to hear about any player's strengths and struggles, whether it be problems off the tee box or leaving their putts a little short.

Golf bettors should also note a player's familiarity with a course. While the holes are constantly changing, some golfers consistently excel at some courses more than others. Woods has dominated the field whenever he tees up at Bay Hill, winning six of the past 10 invitational tournaments.

Weather and course conditions

The 2009 U.S. Open was a textbook example of weather having an impact on the field. The waterlogged course kept golfers and bettors on their toes with slow greens and unpredictable lies.

Tracking the weather and course conditions can give you an edge when it comes to picking out plays. Accurate strikers like David Toms are valued more for keeping the ball high and dry. On longer or dry courses, big swingers like Dustin Johnson and Bubba Watson get more bang for your buck off of the tee box.

Injuries and other factors

Golf is tough on the body, and keeping up with the latest aches and pains can save golf bettors a ton of money. Whether it is a sore lower back or a wobbly knee, a grueling four-day tournament can take its toll.

Other factors can come into play when taking aim at the betting board. Players tinkering with their swing should throw up caution flags, as well as players coming off long layoffs due to personal or injury issues.

Even a change in caddie, like LPGA star Lorena Ochoa's recent decision to drop long time caddie David Brooker and take on veteran Greg Johnston, should be taken into consideration before placing any golf bets.