Definition
A round robin is a betting strategy that creates multiple smaller parlays from a group of selections. Instead of one big parlay where everything must hit, round robins generate every possible 2-team (or 3-team) parlay combination, providing partial wins even if some legs lose.
Example
You like Chiefs, Bills, and Eagles. A 3-pick round robin of 2-team parlays creates 3 bets: Chiefs+Bills, Chiefs+Eagles, Bills+Eagles. If Chiefs and Bills win but Eagles lose, you win 1 of 3 parlays instead of losing everything.
Common Questions
Are round robins better than straight parlays?
Are round robins better than straight parlays?
Round robins reduce variance but also reduce expected value compared to betting each game straight. They can be useful for reducing downside risk, but mathematically, straight bets on +EV games are optimal.
How many bets does a round robin create?
How many bets does a round robin create?
It depends on picks and parlay size. 4 picks in 2-team parlays = 6 bets. 5 picks in 3-team parlays = 10 bets. The number grows quickly—make sure your bankroll can handle the total stake.