We’ll discuss these calculations in more detail later in the guide. The positive number indicates the underdog, and is the potential profit from a $100 bet. The negative number identifies the favorite - in this case the 49ers - and is the amount you’d need to wager to win $100. Imagine an NFL game between the 49ers and the Rams: The odds are represented with positive and negative numbers. How does it work? The bookmaker looks at a specific game and determines the ‘moneyline’ - essentially, the chance of each team winning. It’s one of the most popular markets and is the perfect way to get started if you’re new to sports betting. Plain and simple, a moneyline bet is a wager on the team or athlete you think will win a sporting event.