Not only is Behind the Bets the best sports betting podcast I have found, but it is one of my favorite podcast in general. Chad Millman, editor in chief of ESPN the Magazine and ESPN.com, hosts this weekly show that “discusses all things betting in the sports world.” From August through January, the podcast centers on the NFL and college football; and rightfully so as these are the two largest sports betting markets in the U.S. Just like this site though, there is plenty of great information to be learned just by listening, which can be transferred to the sport of your choice.

During the football season, the podcast splits into two separate shows to cover the NFL and college football more in depth. To cover the college games, Millman has two regular guests – “Stanford Steve” Coughlin and Chris “The Bear” Falika. Both appear on College Game Day, write for ESPN Chalk, and have very impressive track records handicapping college football. They share their picks for Top 25 and “off-the-board” match-ups and provide great insight into not only the games, but handicapping in general. I learn something every week listening to these two.

For the NFL portion, Behind the Bets regular Bob Scucci joins the show to discuss every NFL game each week. Scucci, otherwise known as Scooch, is the Director of Race and Sports for Boyd Gaming. In other words, he’s the head bookmaker for all Boyd Gaming sportsbooks in Nevada; including the Orleans in Las Vegas. His regular appearances have created a cult following among listeners, which has led to his segment being dubbed “The Scooch Pod”, which even includes his own theme music. I know other handicappers dislike the show, but I find it entertaining and useful.

Without a doubt, Scooch has been one of my greatest resources as an up and coming handicapper. I have learned priceless information from him that I would not have learned otherwise. Listening to the head bookmaker dissect each game, explain why each line is where it is, and where he expects the sharp money to go is incredibly useful. This not only gives you fantastic “insider” information about the lines, but it also provides an interesting behind the scenes look into a sportsbook and how they operate. Knowing the strategies and reasoning behind sportsbook decisions can be incredibly valuable to a handicapper. Personally, I credit listening to the Scooch Pod for my ability to accurately predict which way lines will move in the NBA.

I could go on and on about this podcast. However, I’m sure I don’t need to do much more selling of this great show if you are a beginner sports bettor. Like I said it’s not for everyone, but I enjoy listening. The shows are typically 30-45 minutes and are released weekly on Wednesdays on iTunes. Be sure to subscribe as well as download some of their most recent episodes. You’ll be glad you did.

Chad & Scooch - If you are reading this, I would be happy to be on your show anytime!