100 Things We Have Learned About Football Predictions

This is article number 100. When we published the first piece on ScoreBadger - a simple guide to what football prediction games actually are - we had no idea we would end up here. But 100 articles later, we have covered strategy, statistics, psychology, and plenty in between. To celebrate, here are 100 things we have learned along the way.

The Basics (1-15)

1. Football prediction games are the simplest and most addictive way to engage with the sport beyond watching.
2. You do not need to be a football expert to enjoy prediction games. You just need to care enough to have an opinion.
3. The best scoring system is the simplest one. Three points for an exact score, one for the correct result. That is all you need.
4. Getting an exact scoreline right is harder than most people think. Even one correct exact score in a gameweek is a good return.
5. Prediction games and fantasy football scratch completely different itches. Play both if you have the time.
6. Your first prediction gameweek will feel like guesswork. That is normal. It gets better.
7. Nobody gets every prediction right. The goal is to be less wrong than everyone else over time.
8. The how to play page exists for a reason. Read it before your first gameweek.
9. A prediction league with five engaged mates is worth more than one with fifty strangers.
10. Setting up a league with friends takes about three minutes. The banter that follows lasts all season.
11. Prediction deadlines exist to stop you watching the first five minutes and then changing your mind. Respect them.
12. The person who submits predictions last is not necessarily making smarter picks. They are just more anxious.
13. Writing down your reasoning before a gameweek helps you learn from your mistakes afterwards.
14. If you are brand new, start with our beginner's guide. It covers everything you need.