What is an Octopus in Football Betting?

Football betting has plenty of terms and lingo that can be confusing, especially for those who are newbies to the world of sports wagering. One of the newer and more unusual terms in football betting is the “octopus.”

While this term might sound like it belongs in the ocean rather than on the field, an octopus in football betting is a specific type of scoring event. In football betting, an octopus refers to a situation where a single player scores a touchdown and then immediately follows up by scoring the two-point conversion for their team. This unique scoring combination results in eight points, hence the term “octopus” (referencing the eight legs of the sea creature).

In subsequent paragraphs, I will break down the concept of what an octopus means in this context and how it applies to football betting.

To achieve an octopus, the player who scores the touchdown must also be the one to complete the two-point conversion. This makes it a rare event and an interesting stat that some bettors and fans have started to track.

• Touchdown: 6 points
• Two-Point Conversion: 2 points
• Total: 8 points, all from the same player

An octopus doesn’t involve a different player assisting with the two-point conversion; both scores must come from the same individual.

Why is the Octopus Important in Football Betting?

The octopus has gained attention in betting circles because it’s a specific and somewhat rare event, making it an exciting prop bet option. Here are some reasons why the octopus is notable in football betting:

1. Unique Betting Opportunities

Sportsbooks sometimes offer prop bets for unusual game occurrences, like whether or not an octopus will happen. Since it’s relatively rare for one player to complete both a touchdown and the two-point conversion, the odds for this event can be quite high, attracting bettors looking for a unique wagering angle.

2. Betting Variety and Payout Potential

Because the octopus is uncommon, it often comes with favorable odds. Bettors can place wagers on the likelihood of an octopus occurring during a game, which adds variety to traditional bets like point spreads, over/under totals, and moneylines. The payout for correctly predicting an octopus can be substantial, given its relative rarity.

3. Player Performance Prop Bets

Bettors who follow specific players may place bets on them to score an octopus, especially if that player is a key scorer for their team or is frequently involved in two-point conversion plays. Star players like running backs, wide receivers, or quarterbacks (particularly those who are dual threats) are often the most likely to complete an octopus, adding a layer of strategy to the bet.

When and How is an Octopus Likely to Occur?

An octopus can happen during any game where a team scores a touchdown and chooses to attempt a two-point conversion. Teams are more likely to go for two points in certain situations, such as:

1. Late-Game Situations

Teams often go for two points in the fourth quarter if they need a specific score to tie or win the game. Players who score a late-game touchdown might be more motivated to push for an octopus if they can immediately go for the conversion.

2. High-Scoring-Offenses and Star Players

High-scoring teams and players who play significant offensive roles are more likely to be involved in two-point attempts. For example, a team with a standout running back or a mobile quarterback might frequently opt for two-point plays, making them good candidates for an octopus bet.

3. Trick Plays or Goal-Line Offense

Trick plays near the goal line can lead to interesting scoring situations. Star offensive players in these scenarios, especially those who are good in short-yardage situations, are more likely to score both a touchdown and a two-point conversion, fulfilling the octopus criteria.

Examples of Players Who Could Score an Octopus

While an octopus is a rare event, certain players are more likely to complete it based on their play style and role on the team. Here are a few types of players who have a better chance of achieving an octopus:

1. Dual-Threat Quarterbacks

Quarterbacks who can both pass and rush are strong candidates for an octopus. For example, if a quarterback rushes for a touchdown and then runs the ball in again on a two-point conversion, he would complete the octopus. Players like Lamar Jackson, Josh Allen, or Jalen Hurts have the mobility and offensive involvement to make this happen.

2. Star Running Backs

Top running backs often get the ball in goal-line situations, making them more likely to score both the touchdown and the two-point conversion. Players like Derrick Henry or Christian McCaffrey are frequently involved in scoring plays and could complete an octopus if they’re the team’s go-to option in short-yardage scenarios.

3. Red-Zone Wide Receivers

Some wide receivers are heavily targeted in the red zone, making them potential octopus candidates. For example, Davante Adams or Cooper Kupp are players whose teams may design plays around them for both touchdowns and two-point conversions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the Octopus a Common Occurrence in Football?

No, the octopus is quite rare. For a player to score both a touchdown and a two-point conversion, they need to be directly involved in two consecutive scoring plays, which isn’t common. However, certain players and game situations increase the odds of an octopus.

Can You Bet on an Octopus in Any Football Game?

Not all sportsbooks offer octopus bets for every game, but some may provide it as a special prop bet for high-profile games or during playoffs. Always check with your sportsbook to see if octopus bets are available.

Do Both the Touchdown and Two-Point Conversion Have to Be from the Same Play?

No, the touchdown and two-point conversion don’t have to be part of the same play. They are consecutive plays, but they must both involve the same player scoring.

Why Is It Called an Octopus?

The term “octopus” refers to the eight points scored by a single player who completes both the touchdown (6 points) and the two-point conversion (2 points), resembling the eight arms of an octopus.

How Often Does an Octopus Occur in the NFL?

While there’s no exact statistic for how often octopuses occur, they’re relatively rare in NFL games. Specific players with high offensive involvement and teams that attempt more two-point conversions are more likely to produce an octopus, but it remains a unique and infrequent event.

Are There Any Records for the Most Octopuses by a Player?

While octopuses aren’t officially tracked as a statistic, players who are regularly involved in red-zone plays have a better chance of achieving them. Currently, there’s no recognized record for the most octopuses by a single player.

Conclusion

An octopus in football betting refers to a specific scoring scenario where one player scores a touchdown and then follows it up by completing the two-point conversion, totaling eight points. It’s a rare but exciting event, and some sportsbooks even offer special prop bets for it.

While the octopus may not happen often, it adds an interesting twist to football betting and provides fans with a unique way to enjoy the game. So the next time you watch a game, keep an eye on key players because they just might complete an octopus and make history!