Point Spread
Definition
A handicap set by bookmakers to create a balanced betting market. The favorite must win by more than the spread to cover. For example, Team A -6.5 means they must win by 7+ points. Standard juice is -110 on both sides.
The point spread is a handicap set by bookmakers to level the playing field between two unevenly matched teams. The favorite must win by more than the spread for bets on them to pay off, while the underdog can lose by fewer points than the spread (or win outright) for bets on them to win.
A spread of -6.5 on Team A means they must win by 7 or more points for the bet to win. A spread of +6.5 on Team B means they must lose by 6 or fewer points (or win) for the bet to win. Half-point spreads eliminate the possibility of a push (tie), while whole-number spreads can result in pushes where bets are refunded.
Standard point spread betting uses -110 odds on both sides, meaning you must bet $110 to win $100 regardless of which side you choose. The $10 difference between what you risk and what you win is the bookmaker's commission (vigorish). This commission represents a house edge of approximately 4.5% on each individual bet.
Successful point spread betting requires finding situations where the true margin between teams differs from the bookmaker's line. If you believe Team A will win by 10 but the spread is only 6.5, there is value in betting the favorite. Consistently identifying these discrepancies, even by a small margin, can lead to long-term profitability.
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Related Terms
A bet on which team or player will win a game outright. Expressed as positive or negative numbers: -150 means you must bet $150 to win $100 (favorite); +150 means a $100 bet wins $150 (underdog). No point spread involved.
Against the Spread (ATS)A record or bet type referring to performance relative to the point spread. A team that is 8-4 ATS has covered the spread 8 times in 12 games. ATS records are a key metric for sports bettors.
Over/Under (Totals)A bet on whether the combined score of both teams will be over or under a number set by the bookmaker. For example, an over/under of 47.5 in football, where you bet whether the total will be 48+ or 47 or fewer.
TeaserA type of parlay where you can adjust point spreads in your favor in exchange for lower payouts. A 6-point NFL teaser moves each spread by 6 points. All selections must still win. Better mathematical value than standard parlays.
Handicap BettingGiving one team a virtual advantage or disadvantage to level the playing field. European handicap uses whole numbers (draws possible). Asian handicap uses half and quarter lines to eliminate draws. Popular in soccer betting.
Asian HandicapA handicap betting system originating in Asia that eliminates the draw by using half-point and quarter-point lines. A -0.25 handicap splits the bet: half on 0 (draw no bet) and half on -0.5. Reduces bookmaker margins.
Push (Sports Betting)When the result lands exactly on the point spread or total, resulting in a tie. All bets are refunded. Half-point lines (e.g., -3.5) eliminate the possibility of a push. In parlays, a push usually reduces the parlay by one leg.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Point Spread?
A handicap set by bookmakers to create a balanced betting market. The favorite must win by more than the spread to cover. For example, Team A -6.5 means they must win by 7+ points. Standard juice is -110 on both sides.
What terms are related to Point Spread?
Related concepts include: Moneyline, Against the Spread (ATS), Over/Under (Totals), Teaser, Handicap Betting, Asian Handicap, Push (Sports Betting). Understanding these terms together gives you a more complete picture of the concept.
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