Characteristics of Championship Teams
By Kris Lazaro (5/3/2007)
In betting championship games in any sport, the sports bettor must be aware of several factors that are in play during these types of games. There are several characteristics that make a team a championship-caliber team. As this article will show, such teams can be identified even before the playoffs, thus making futures bets on such teams a valuable option. These teams all have good defenses, motivation, momentum, and a good road record.
Defense is the key to winning championships. As in the old adage, offense wins games, but defense wins championships. This cliché cannot be overstated enough. Teams across the sports world must rely on their defense to keep the opposition at bay, and to win championship titles.
Championship teams all have a little extra motivation, as compared to their competition. Emotions play a major role in sports, especially in college. Since such players play for their school, and potential for the scouts, and not for money, these college players rely heavily on emotions to propel them throughout the season. Teams who have recently undergone obstacles (for example, having a teammate pass away) all have something to play for. Returning students looking to repeat a championship instead of going professional also have great motivation (for example the 2006-07 Florida Gators).
Momentum is also a big factor in championship teams. Teams who enter the playoffs on a roll usually maintain that streak into the playoffs. Such teams have such high confidence that they may even beat a team that is superior to them. In the sport of baseball, such cases are readily seen. This angle also works well the college basketball tournament.
Lastly, a good road record is the pinnacle mark of championship teams. It is fairly easy to win home games, but to win on the road is another matter. Such teams who show a good road record (>.750) are teams who can win anywhere. These teams have shown that they can win on another team’s court, a skill that is necessary to win championships.
In summary, there are many other characteristics that make a championship type team. The following are but a few examples. |