Sportsbook Edges and Operations

[WABJ11]

Originally Posted by FLASH1296

As has been stated here already, the Sports Books DO take positions, so they often have their lines geared to encourage the weaker side, like the favorites in NFL match-ups. So their lines may sometimes reflect an attempt to create a near 50-50 split on the action, but they are willing to be quite a bit off of that mark — exposing themselves to a loss, but assuring improved long-term profits. Their loss is softened or even eliminated by the vig' that they charge.

So you could run a profitable sportsbook with say 5 guys because of the vig?