A pick 'em game is one the sportsbook rates as even. The point spread is 0, often shown as PK, so you just need your team to win.
It works like a moneyline bet, but usually at -110 on both sides. If the game ends in a tie, the bet is a push.
In a teaser, a line can also be teased to pick 'em.
How it works
In a pick 'em, the sportsbook can't separate the teams, so neither side gets points. You're simply betting on who wins, similar to a moneyline.
The difference is the price. A pick 'em spread is usually -110 on both sides, while the same game's moneyline might be -115 or -120 on each side. In sports where ties are rare, the -110 pick 'em is often the better deal.
If a game does end level, a pick 'em is a push and you get your stake back. A two-way moneyline may treat a tie differently depending on the sport and the sportsbook, so check the rules.
You'll also see PK in a teaser or when a line moves through zero, for example from -1 to PK to +1.
Examples
- Example 1
Both sides are PK at -110. You bet $110 on the Bears. If they win by any margin you win $100. If the game ends tied, you get $110 back.
- Example 2
The same game is -115 on the moneyline. At -115 you'd need about 53.5% to break even, versus about 52.4% at -110 on the pick 'em.
Common questions
What does PK mean in betting?
Pick 'em. The game has a point spread of zero, so your team just needs to win.
Is a pick 'em the same as a moneyline bet?
Almost. You're betting on the winner either way, but a pick 'em is usually priced at -110 and pushes on a tie.