A point spread is a handicap that levels the playing field between two teams. The favorite \'gives\' points (-7) while the underdog \'gets\' points (+7). You win a spread bet if your team covers the spread—either winning by more than the spread (favorites) or losing by less (underdogs). Point spreads exist because sportsbooks need to attract roughly equal betting action on both sides of a game. Without a spread, everyone would simply bet on the better team. The spread creates a balanced proposition where both sides have an approximately equal chance of covering, making it the most popular bet type in football and basketball.
Example
Patriots -7 vs Jets +7. Betting Patriots -7 wins if they win by 8 or more. Betting Jets +7 wins if the Jets win outright OR lose by 6 or fewer. If the Patriots win by exactly 7, it\'s a push and all bets are refunded. Consider another scenario: Lakers -4.5 vs Celtics +4.5. The half-point eliminates the possibility of a push—the Lakers must win by 5 or more to cover, while the Celtics cover if they win or lose by 4 or fewer. Sportsbooks frequently use half-point spreads to ensure a definitive winner on every wager and avoid refunding bets.
Common Questions
Why are most spreads at -110 odds?
Why are most spreads at -110 odds?
The -110/-110 structure creates balanced action on both sides. The 10% you risk beyond your potential win ($110 to win $100) is the vig—the sportsbook's commission for taking your bet. Some books offer reduced juice at -105 or even -102, which saves bettors significant money over time. Shopping for the best price on spread bets can be just as valuable as finding the right side. Even a nickel difference from -110 to -105 cuts your effective vig nearly in half.
What does it mean to cover the spread?
What does it mean to cover the spread?
Covering means your team beat the point spread. If you bet Bills -3 and they win by 7, they covered by 4 points. If they win by 2, they didn't cover even though they won the game outright. For underdogs, covering is easier—the Jets at +6.5 cover if they lose by 6, lose by 1, or win outright. This is why many sharp bettors prefer betting underdogs, especially when they're getting key numbers like 3, 6, or 7 in football.
What are key numbers in point spread betting?
What are key numbers in point spread betting?
Key numbers are the most common margins of victory in a sport. In NFL football, 3 and 7 are the most critical because games frequently end with a field goal (3 points) or touchdown (7 points) margin. Approximately 15% of NFL games are decided by exactly 3 points and about 9% by exactly 7 points. Spreads that land on these numbers carry extra significance, and moving a spread off a key number (like from -3 to -2.5) can substantially change the bet's value.
How do sportsbooks set the point spread?
How do sportsbooks set the point spread?
Sportsbooks use a combination of statistical models, power ratings, and market input to set opening lines. Once the line is posted, it moves based on betting action and new information such as injuries, weather, or lineup changes. The goal is not necessarily to predict the exact margin of victory but to set a number that attracts equal money on both sides. Sharp bettors who bet early often move lines before the general public gets involved.