The NFL, by virtue of being the most popular sport to gamble on in North America, can also be the toughest to handicap. Games are few and lines are tight. But there is still a solid advantage to be gained against the betting public.

Myths persist about football despite the relatively smart mainstream coverage and analysis the NFL enjoys. The casual fan continues to divide the sport into “skill” and “non-skill” positions, overvaluing the contributions of the running backs and the wide receivers compared to the offensive linemen and the safeties. Many football analysts in the public eye look more like casual fans than experts.

You can make a healthy profit on NFL games by taking this knowledge gap into consideration. Teams missing starting players on their offensive lines or in the secondary are stronger fade candidates; those missing big-name “skill” players are more attractive if they have competent, no-name back-ups.

It’s that time of year again: football betting season. How does a newcomer survive the handicapping jungle? Start at the beginning with these three basic betting rules.

1: It’s not about the bookie. Most beginners think the idea is to outsmart the book. Not so – and good thing, too, because the oddsmakers know their stuff. The idea is to outsmart the dumber half of the betting public and take their money; the book is more like a tollbooth.

2: Embrace statistics. Don’t let your emotional attachment to a team or player guide your betting. That’s what “square” bettors do. Look at the numbers instead, including the ones that football-crazed statheads are churning out these days. The team you thought ruled might actually suck.

3: Manage your money. Your betting prowess will build as you develop your football knowledge. Keep your cool; don’t blow all your cash in the beginning.