Over the past seven months, bettors have capitalized on team's momentum.
Sometimes, games seem to be over before they truly begin, as teams build leads before their opponents have a chance to respond.
These four performances highlight some of the fastest and most dominant starts that have lead to an early payout in the past seven months.
The 365's: bet365 Fastest Early Payout
Texans Take 17-0 Lead Over Cardinals
On December 14, 2025, the Houston Texans set a franchise record with a 17-0 lead in the first quarter, all before the Arizona Cardinals had secured a single first down. Nico Collins opened the game with a 57-yard touchdown reception on the game's second play.
The Cardinals fumbled a kickoff return and the Texans recovered the ball. After not being able to gain any yardage they settled for a 30-yard first down making it 10-0. Late in the first quarter, Stroud fumbled a snap on the 1-yard line, then Woody Marks recovered it for a touchdown making the game 17-0.
The Texans jumped to a early lead and just 8:48 into the first quarter the bettor was able to cash out. The Texans went on to defeat the Cardinals 40-20.
Nuggets Take 19-0 Lead Over Jazz
The Nuggets wasted no time taking control, storming out to a 19-0 lead just 3:56 into the first quarter before stretching the margin to 24-3.
Nikola Jokic anchored the dominant performance with a triple-double of 14 points, 13 rebounds and 13 assists.
Denver's strong start meant one bettor didn't need to wait long, cashing an early payout just 6:41 into the game before the Nuggets dominated a 135-112 victory over the Utah Jazz.
Penguins Take 3-0 Lead vs. Oilers
On January 22, 2026, the Penguins got off to an explosive start, scoring three goals in just 37 seconds. The outburst marked the third-fastest three-goal stretch in franchise history with Anthony Mantha scoring twice before Sidney Crosby added the third.
Just 2:57 into the game, one bettor capitalized on Pittsburgh's hot start, cashing an early payout before the first period was fully underway.
The Penguins went on to win 6-2.
Marlins Score 5 Runs in 1st 5 Batters vs. Athletics
The most recent early payout happened when the Marlins came out swinging against the Athletics, scoring five runs in the first inning.
Otto Lopez sparked the rally with a leadoff double before Heriberto Hernandez launched a three-run homer to center field. After a strikeout, Xavier Edwards drew a walk, Griffin Conine followed with an RBI double, and Javier Sanoja drove in another run with a groundout.
Miami's offense produced five runs in its first five at-bats, and before the Athletics' pitcher could settle into the game, one bettor had already secured an early payout in the opening inning.
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