2023 Panini Select Football: Why Buying Singles on eBay Might Be Smarter Than Ripping Wax

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The 2023 Panini Select Football set is here, and the hype is undeniable. With preorders hitting nearly $1,000 per box—almost double last year's price—collectors are buzzing. But before you dive in and start ripping packs, it's worth considering a different strategy: buying singles on eBay, especially if you're after potential superstars like CJ Stroud.

The Appeal of Panini Select Football

Select Football is a heavyweight in the sports card market. With 60 cards per box, including 2 autographs, 1 memorabilia card, and 15 parallels, it’s a product that offers plenty of opportunities to pull valuable cards. The set also includes exciting parallels like the Zebra SSP and the coveted Field Level cards, making it a favorite among collectors.

However, despite the allure of hitting it big, the increased price tag means you’re paying almost $20 per card. That's a hefty investment, particularly when there's no guarantee of pulling a card that justifies the cost.

Why Singles Are a Smarter Play

Here’s where buying singles on eBay comes into play. Instead of gambling on a $1,000 box, you can target specific cards of players you believe in—like potential breakout quarterback CJ Stroud. By focusing on singles, you reduce the risk and can zero in on cards that hold long-term value, such as Silver or Field Level rookies.

Even better, buying raw cards and getting them graded can yield significant returns. Collectors go wild for Select PSA 10s, and if you snag a few key rookies in top condition, you could be sitting on a valuable investment without breaking the bank.

The Rookie Class Factor

One of the reasons the 2023 Select set is generating so much excitement is the strength of the rookie class. CJ Stroud has already shown flashes of brilliance, and other quarterbacks and skill players could emerge as stars. While the lack of rookie autographs from top prospects is a downside, there are still plenty of non-auto cards that could become highly sought after.

Final Thoughts: Stick to Singles

While ripping a box of 2023 Select Football is tempting, the smarter play—especially if you're focused on long-term investment—is to buy singles on eBay. I love a good case break as much as the next person, but the long term value is not there . You can avoid the high upfront cost and the risk of getting skunked, while still acquiring valuable cards of players you believe in. If you’re patient and strategic, targeting raw cards for grading could lead to a solid return on your investment.

So, before you pull the trigger on that $1,000 box, consider the potential of buying singles instead. It might just be the more rewarding move.