Best Bets: 2024 SuperMotocross Playoffs Round 1 Pre-Event Odds Analysis

Leading the betting odds is defending SMX Champion Jett Lawrence (+152). Despite missing a significant portion of the Pro Motocross season due to a thumb injury, the young Australian remains the rider to beat. Prior to his injury, Lawrence showcased his incredible talent by winning the 2024 Supercross Championship. His raw speed, bike control, and ability to quickly adapt to the unique challenges of the SMX format make him a serious threat to reclaim his crown. If Lawrence can shake off any lingering effects from his injury, expect him to be in the mix for wins from the get-go.

Close behind Lawrence is Chase Sexton (+188), who enters the SMX Playoffs fresh off clinching the 2024 Pro Motocross Championship in dominant fashion. Sexton’s incredible consistency and speed were on full display at the Ironman National finale, where he went 1-1 to secure his first premier class title. The KTM rider’s ability to maintain a blistering pace for the entire moto duration, coupled with his improved race craft, make him a formidable challenger to Lawrence’s title defense. Sexton’s momentum from his outdoor title and his proven ability to master the hybrid SMX tracks position him as a top contender in Concord.

Rounding out the top picks is Hunter Lawrence (+987), Jett’s older brother, who finished second to Sexton in the Pro Motocross standings. Hunter’s smooth, calculated riding style and consistently strong results throughout the outdoor season have positioned him as a legitimate threat for the SMX crown. His ability to maintain a fast pace while minimizing mistakes could prove invaluable in the pressure-packed playoffs. While he may not have the same outright speed as Jett or Sexton, Hunter’s race craft and mental toughness make him a rider to watch in Concord and beyond.

Outsider Picks

Among the outsiders, Eli Tomac (+1182) looms as a potential spoiler. The multi-time champion may have had an injury-plagued Pro Motocross campaign, but his strong performance in the final moto at Ironman, where he finished third, served notice that he’s back to full fitness. Tomac’s wealth of experience, race-winning pedigree, and ability to rise to the occasion in high-pressure situations make him a serious threat, even if he’s not the outright favorite. A focused and motivated Tomac is always a force to be reckoned with, and he’ll be looking to add an SMX title to his already impressive resume.

Ken Roczen (+1539) is another veteran who could make some noise in the playoffs. While the German rider has struggled with consistency in recent years, his raw speed and talent are undeniable. Roczen’s experience and success in both Supercross and Motocross make him a rider who can never be counted out, especially in the unpredictable SMX format. If he can find his form and avoid mistakes, Roczen has the potential to challenge for podiums and even wins.

Justin Cooper (+1718), who finished fourth in the Pro Motocross standings, could be the dark horse of the SMX Playoffs. The Yamaha rider’s smooth, effortless style seems tailor-made for the hybrid tracks, and his lightning-quick starts could prove to be a valuable weapon in the intense playoff atmosphere. Cooper’s strong second-place finish in the final moto at Ironman, where he challenged Sexton for the lead early on, served notice that he has the speed to run with the top contenders. If he can put all the pieces together and maintain his consistency, Cooper has the potential to pull off some surprises in Round 1.

Expert Pick for SMX Playoff 1

Jett Lawrence is our expert pick to kick off the playoffs with a win in Concord. Despite his injury layoff, the young Australian’s raw speed and bike control are unparalleled, and he has a proven track record of rising to the occasion in big moments. If Lawrence can quickly shake off any rust and find his rhythm, he’ll be tough to beat on the hybrid track. However, he’ll face stiff competition from Sexton, who comes in with the momentum of his Pro Motocross title, and the ever-consistent Hunter Lawrence. Regardless of the outcome, expect a thrilling battle between these three top contenders as they look to make an early statement in the championship chase.

Head-to-Head Picks

These head-to-head matchups pit the top contenders against each other in a battle for bragging rights and valuable points. The Sexton vs. Lawrence duel is a toss-up, with both riders possessing the speed and skill to come out on top. Tomac’s experience gives him an edge over the consistent Hunter Lawrence, while Cooper’s quick starts and smooth style make him a tempting underdog pick against the veteran Roczen.

Championship Futures

The championship futures odds paint a picture of a two-horse race between Chase Sexton and Jett Lawrence, with the rest of the field facing long odds to claim the crown. Sexton’s consistency and recent Pro Motocross title make him the betting favorite, but Lawrence’s raw talent and past SMX success keep him firmly in the hunt. Hunter Lawrence and Eli Tomac offer intriguing value as potential spoilers, while Justin Cooper remains a tempting long shot. As the playoffs unfold, expect these odds to fluctuate based on performances and momentum shifts.

Where to Bet on SMX Playoff 1

Bets for SMX Playoff 1 can be placed at our partner sportsbooks. Don’t forget to check the latest odds and promotions before placing your bets. If you’re new to the betting scene, check out NXTbet’s comprehensive SuperMotocross Betting Guide. 

With a deep field of both rising stars and established veterans, the 2024 SMX Playoffs promise to be an epic showdown. As the series kicks off in Concord, fans and bettors alike will be treated to a new level of intensity and drama. Stay locked in for full coverage and analysis throughout the playoffs as the battle for the SuperMotocross crown unfolds.

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