Hello Professor, I love your site. I play craps often in Vegas and would love to tell my adventures as well. I stayed at the Rio and found the tables to be a lot of fun. However I really enjoyed playing at the Orleans. There were plenty of tables to play and some good rollers as well. However, for the first time, I felt very cheated.

I was at a table and the dice were hot, 30 minutes into a roll I bet 4 bucks on C&E after the shooter had rolled craps twice. He rolled 11 and the dealer next to me pulled my bet down and argued that it was an old bet. I argued I just made that bed. I contemplated making the pit boss roll the tape and stopping a good roll which I had over $150 on the table. I said forget it. This kind of error happened twice during my trip, once at the Orleans and the Rio. Overall, I did quite well and had a blast. Tsumni

Hi Tsumni, 

Unfortunately, you had to a hard decision. I agree with your action and I feel that you made the right decision. I am sure, if you had stopped the game, it would have had a negative effect on the game’s energy. I don’t know with any certainty, but I could entertain the notion that the dealers are coached to stall a hot roll for the obvious reason. Calling it an “old bet” is suspect too. How could it be an “old bet”? It is a one roll bet, no such thing as an “old” C&E. If the stickman, who was dealing the game, neglected to pull down a loser then, it is his mistake. Plus, if craps rolled twice before…? Think about it. In most cases, players usually allow the C&E to stay up after a win. Hence, no “old bet”. Hate to say it, but I think you were had.

You said the dealer next to you pulled the bet down. I assume you mean the “dealer” and not the stickman running the game? The center bets are the jurisdiction of the stickman. It is his job to book bets, take down losing bets, and order the payout for winning bets. The dealer should not be involved with center bets, excepting, and maybe, when the stickman is overwhelm at his job and needs a little help.

If the boxman was sitting in the game, he is the ultimate referee and is supposed to be watching everything. Petition the boxman if you are not getting satisfaction with the dealer. He may not agree, but he is the last word. Always be polite when engaging the casino personnel about a misunderstanding.

Again, for sake of breaking down a game, I feel that you made the gallant and honorable choice to sacrifice your win for the good of the game. I have been there many a time. Someone loses track of their bet, and they stop a good roll to argue over a $1 hardway bet that they may have had or may not have had.

Dealers make mistakes and the lesson here is, “always be on your toes”. Always use a clear and loud voice when booking center bets and make sure your bet is positioned correctly on the layout as well.

Craps Layout

During a hot game the dealers can feel the heat too. Good ones carry on and mediocre ones can slipup under the pressure.

Good on you for having a successful trip all up. Thanks for the compliment and taking the time to write.

 All the best mate,

 Michael Vernon