Official betting is betting on a sports event that has been officially approved by a state’s regulatory authority. The legality of sports betting in the United States was largely unregulated until the Supreme Court struck down the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA) in 2018.

Rhode Island, the Ocean State, was the first state to launch official sports betting as a state-run operation. It launched its sportsbook online and at its two casinos in November 2018.

The state was able to achieve this in a relatively short period of time, as opposed to many other states that have taken six months or longer to get their market going. It also took a more proactive approach, as opposed to a passive one that most other states have adopted.

There are a few things that should be considered before placing your bets.

Money lines change constantly, so bettors should always check their tickets. A money line is the listed price that you can bet on a specific team for that game.

The odds will also change based on the actual amount of runs scored in a game, which is called the over/under. This is a common type of wager that has become popular among sports bettors.

During a game, it’s not uncommon for a favorite to be underpriced. This can happen because they have an edge in the form of a home field advantage, or because their pitcher has been injured, or because they’re behind early on.