Craps Superstitions

by Larry Edell, published on Thursday, November 1 2001

For example, everyone knows that when dice are thrown off the table, there is no reason to believe that a seven will show on the next roll. And, when a woman shoots for the very first time (a "virgin shooter"), she will not throw a long string of profitable numbers. This is all based on superstition, not fact. But can dice superstitions have some fact behind them? How often have you seen someone set the dice and roll numbers? How often have you seen a high roller have his female friend shoot for him and rake in the chips? And have you ever taken your bets down when the dice leave the table? Yes. We all have. There are some people who believe that the collective energy at a table can produce very positive results. For example, the high roller and his friend believe strongly that numbers will follow, and so do some of the other players - so numbers will somehow roll. Unbelievable? Illogical? Well, maybe. But if it works, does it really matter how it works, especially if you make a lot of money from the shooter? Let's say you are normally a don't bettor and the next shooter sets the dice meticulously and bets $50 on the pass line. He obviously thinks he knows something that no one else does, so it just might be time for you to switch to the do side and make a pass line bet with some place or come bets. The shooter will see your bets backing him up and somehow, very unscientifically, shoot more numbers. And, if he happens to throw the dice off the table and then calls his bets off, you would do well to follow him. I sometimes bet on the don't side, but I never bet against someone who sets the dice. I follow his lead, and put my bets up like he does, and take them down like he does. I'm not superstitious, but I want to give him every advantage I can. Maybe he has a craps table at home and practices shooting. Maybe he's a psychic. I don't know, and I don't care, as long as he shoots numbers. Craps is the only game in the casino where you can determine the outcome of hundreds (sometimes thousands) of dollars by becoming the shooter. Many people consider it an honor and privilege and really do practice at it. Even if they see success in one or two percent more rolls than other shooters, that's enough to overcome the slim house edge. So the next time you see the shooter set the dice, back him up with a bet. Show him you have confidence in his shooting by following his actions. You'll see - the more people that bet along with him the better he'll do. Totally illogical, I know. But it works - Give it a try next time you play craps! And, as always, good luck at the tables!