I think regardless of whether you bet against the public or with other options the most important thing is one thing that understand the dangers that always lurk you at all times, because in any case defeat will always be part of the game, but I also agree with you that most likely the gamblers who are able to control themselves and their emotions are those who are already experienced enough because of course they have gone through various situations and maybe make it a lesson so they can be better as a gambler.
Regardless of any gambler's experience, everyone has different approach to auditory, vision and sensational actions. When the public are on the side of a team, they consist of both the experts and the newbies. Only a player who doesn't get moved or respond to things he's heard others say about the game would follow his decisions. Other than that, experience helps but in most vital cases state of mind controls how money is wagered on a game.
Experienced mostly the basis even gambler take side against the public with how they manage to experienced the outcome they will insist on that position hoping that both luck and the knowledge will help them to win, like what you said, there are different approachand there are different perspectives in terms of placing your bets.
Sports gambling consist of different understanding either you pick side thinking that the favorite will lessen the chance of losing or you are aiming for bigger percentage of winning, all up to your own decision and how you view the possible outcome.