The Best Strategies For Casino Craps Don't Pass Bettors

The vast majority of players at a craps table are 'right-way' bettors, meaning they want the shooter to roll point numbers.


While playing the dark side can make you unpopular with the other players, it is actually one of the smartest mathematical bets in the casino.

The Math Behind the Don't Pass Bet

If a 12 is rolled on the Come Out, the bet is a 'push' (tie) to maintain the casino's tiny mathematical edge.


The true power of the Don't Pass bet comes after the point is established; once a point is set, the math swings heavily in your favor.

The casino actively relies on players choosing the mathematically inferior Pass Line simply because it is more fun and socialPlaying the Don't Pass line requires thick skin; you must remain quiet and respectful when the entire table groans after a seven-outNever celebrate loudly when you win a Don't Pass bet, as you are actively profiting from the misery of everyone else at the table
The Etiquette of Betting Against the Table

Because you are winning when everyone else is losing, playing the Don't Pass line requires strict adherence to unwritten social rules.


Many dark side bettors prefer to stand at the very end of the table, physically separating themselves from the cheering crowd.

Strategy MoveHow it WorksMathematical RealityTaking Odds (Pass Line)Betting behind the line after pointPays true odds (e.g., 2 to 1 on a 4)Laying Odds (Don't Pass)Betting behind the line after pointRequires risking more to win less (e.g., Lay $20 to win $10 on a 4)

However, if you can handle the icy glares from the other players, it is undeniably the smartest way to play the game.