Football betting is full of exciting and creative wagers but one of the most intriguing bets you’ll come across is the Octopus Bet.
Though it may sound unusual this prop bet has become increasingly popular especially during the Super Bowl. But what exactly is an Octopus in football and why do bettors love it? Let’s break it down in detail.
Understanding the Octopus Bet in Football
An Octopus bet in football refers to a unique scenario where a player scores a touchdown and then follows it up by scoring the two-point conversion immediately after. The term “Octopus” comes from the total number of points earned eight points in one sequence just like the number of tentacles on an octopus.
Unlike traditional bets, where you predict a team’s score or the winner of a game, the Octopus bet focuses on an individual player’s ability to secure back to back scoring plays. It’s rare, but when it happens, it can lead to significant payouts.
How an Octopus Bet Works
To win an Octopus bet, a player must:
- Score a touchdown (6 points)
- Score the two-point conversion (2 points) immediately after
If these two conditions are met by the same player in consecutive plays, the bet hits. However, if two different players score, the bet loses.
Example Scenario
Imagine a team is down by eight points in the final minutes of a game. The quarterback throws a touchdown pass to a wide receiver, who then lines up for the two point attempt and catches another pass. Since the same player was responsible for both scores, it qualifies as an Octopus.
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What Doesn’t Count as an Octopus?
- If the touchdown and two point conversion are scored by two different players.
- If the two point conversion happens at a later time in the game.
- If the team opts for an extra point instead of a two point attempt.
Octopus Bet Rules You Need to Know
Before placing an Octopus bet, bettors should be aware of the following rules:
- The same player must score both the touchdown and the two point conversion.
- The two point conversion must immediately follow the touchdown.
- The bet does not apply to field goals, extra points, or defensive scores.
- Sportsbooks often offer Octopus bets only during major games like the Super Bowl.
- The bet can only be placed in sportsbooks that support novelty prop bets.
History of the Octopus in Football
The term “Octopus” in football refers to a unique play where a player scores a touchdown and follows it up with a successful two point conversion, earning a total of eight points in a single sequence. This term was introduced by sportswriter Mitch Goldich in 2019 and has since gained recognition among football fans and analysts.
Origins of the Octopus
The NFL introduced the two point conversion rule in 1994, allowing teams to attempt an extra two points after scoring a touchdown by reaching the end zone again from the two yard line. This rule change set the foundation for what later became known as the Octopus play. However, the term itself wasn’t coined until Goldich highlighted it in his article.
First Recorded Octopus in NFL History
The first officially recorded Octopus in NFL history occurred on September 11, 1994. On that day, both Torrance Small of the New Orleans Saints and Rob Moore of the New York Jets became the first players to achieve this feat in their respective games. Their performances marked the beginning of a new statistical category in football history.
Notable Players Who Have Achieved an Octopus
Since the introduction of the two point conversion, numerous players have managed to complete an Octopus. Some of the most notable instances include:
- Randy Moss – Achieved three times (Week 17, 1998; Week 15, 2000; Week 9, 2009)
- Calvin Johnson – Week 2, 2010
- Aaron Rodgers – Week 16, 2018
- Patrick Mahomes – Week 9, 2022
The First Octopus in Super Bowl History
One of the most significant Octopus moments occurred during Super Bowl LVII, when Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts became the first player in Super Bowl history to achieve this feat. He scored a touchdown and followed it up with a two point conversion, cementing his place in football history.
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Statistical Overview of the Octopus in the NFL
As of August 26, 2023, there have been 188 recorded instances of an Octopus in NFL history. This rare achievement highlights the skill and composure required to complete such a play successfully.
The Octopus in Sports Betting and Fan Culture
With its growing recognition, the Octopus has also gained traction in the sports betting world. Some sportsbooks have introduced prop bets related to Octopus plays, especially during high profile games like the Super Bowl. This has further increased interest in tracking and celebrating these unique plays.
Famous Octopus Moments in the NFL
Over the years, several players have accomplished an Octopus, but some moments stand out:
| Player | Team | Year | Game |
|---|---|---|---|
| Marshall Faulk | St. Louis Rams | 2000 | Regular Season |
| James White | New England Patriots | 2018 | Super Bowl LIII |
| Jalen Hurts | Philadelphia Eagles | 2023 | Super Bowl LVII |
The most recent and talked about Octopus moment was Jalen Hurts’ performance in 2023, which led to huge losses for sportsbooks due to high payouts.
Why Bettors Love the Octopus Prop Bet
Bettors love the Octopus bet for several reasons:
- High Payouts: Since an Octopus is rare, it comes with long odds and big returns.
- Exciting Gameplay: Watching a player pull off an Octopus adds extra excitement to a game.
- Super Bowl Popularity: The bet is heavily placed during high profile games like the Super Bowl.
- Unique and Fun: Unlike standard bets, it provides a fresh and entertaining betting experience.
Octopus Betting Odds and Payouts
The odds for an Octopus bet vary based on the sportsbook, player, and game context. Here’s a general idea of the odds you might find:
| Bet | Odds |
| Octopus Bet Happens | +1400 |
| No Octopus Bet | -5000 |
At +1400 odds, a $10 bet could return $150 if an Octopus occurs, making it a lucrative but high risk wager.
How to Place an Octopus Bet
Placing an Octopus bet is straightforward. Here’s how to do it:
- Choose a sportsbook that offers Super Bowl novelty bets (e.g., BetMGM, DraftKings, FanDuel).
- Navigate to the Prop Bets section under the NFL betting menu.
- Find the “Octopus Bet” and check the odds.
- Place your wager and confirm the bet.
- Watch the game and hope for an Octopus!
Strategies for Betting on an Octopus
While betting on an Octopus is risky, here are some tips to improve your chances:
- Target Dual Threat Quarterbacks: Players like Jalen Hurts and Lamar Jackson have higher chances of completing an Octopus.
- Look at Team Playstyle: Teams that frequently attempt two point conversions have a better chance.
- Consider Red Zone Usage: Players with high red zone targets are more likely to score back to back plays.
- Bet on High Scoring Games: More touchdowns mean more opportunities for an Octopus to occur.
Final Thoughts on the Octopus Bet
The Octopus Bet in football is one of the most exciting and unique prop bets available. It adds an extra layer of fun to the game, especially during Super Bowl betting. While it’s rare, the high payouts and thrilling moments make it a favorite among bettors.
Whether you’re a casual fan or a seasoned bettor, the Octopus bet is worth keeping an eye on in future games!
Joi Biden is a seasoned blogger with a passion for uncovering the dynamic world of sports. With years of experience in crafting engaging and insightful content, Joi brings a unique perspective to Sports Riser. His writing blends in depth analysis with captivating storytelling, keeping readers informed and entertained. When he’s not writing, Joi enjoys exploring emerging sports trends and cheering for his favorite teams.
