Probably the most important consideration, is betting lines are not stable, but in constant movement as information, research, etc. are projected. It is just as difficult for the oddsmaker to establish a line as it is for the handicapper. The difference is the oddsmaker is trying to create a number that will split public opinion.. as to which way to bet. The oddsmakers are guessing too, although there are a small percentage of handicappers that stand apart from the ordinary.

The NFL and NBA betting lines remain much more stable than in college sports. The oddsmaker can usually make a sharper opening line on the pro games so they can exact more equal action from the beginning. This is why it takes a large wager to move the pro line.

Winning or losing is in the betting line, not to whether one team is better or worse than the other. This means the changing aspects of winning or losing are directly related to line movement. Studying line fluctations is a very important part of showing profits.