Point Spreads Explained: How to Read & Bet the Spread
The spread is probably one of the most-talked about parts of sports betting. If you don't understand that term, this article is for you! We'll go over what the point spread is, how to read it and how you can bet on the spreads to wager with confidence at TS Sports.
What is a Point Spread?
Each game and event has a point spread, which is a handicap determined by TS Sports to help make a matchup between a stronger team and a weaker team a more balanced betting opportunity.
Understanding favorites and underdogs can help you understand point spreads. Favorites are more likely to win, so they'll have minus odds and are "giving" points in the spread. Underdogs aren't as likely to win, so they have plus odds and are "getting" points on the spread.
How to Read a Point Spread: Deciphering the Numbers
Here's a real-world example: In the NFL, the underdog team may be +4.5, while the favorite would be -4.5. This means the favorite is expected to win by 4.5 points. Therefore, bettors can bet either the underdog or favorite team's point spread, which is as close to a 50/50 opportunity as possible.
Most point spreads will end in .5. This is done in order to prevent a "push," or a tie. Since point totals can't end in a half-point, there will always be a winner and loser of a bet when the spread ends in .5.
The Point Spread vs. The Odds: Understanding the Difference
Let's quickly break down the difference between the point spread and the odds. The spread is about the score of the game you're betting on. It's the margin of victory required to win your bet. If you bet on Buffalo -6.5, Buffalo must win by at least 7 points for your wager to be a successful one.
The odds determine the payout of your bet. If the bet on Buffalo has -110 odds, that means you would have to bet $110 to win $100. In other words, it's the cost of the bet.
Both the point spread and the odds may be adjusted if a star player is injured before or during the game. The point spread might move towards the healthier team, or the odds would move to balance out the money being bet on each side.
What Does -110 Mean? (Understanding "The Juice")
When it comes to point spreads, it's important to remember the "juice" that comes with your bet. The juice, or "vig," is the cut that TS Sports keeps in return for accepting your bet. Odds of -110 is the standard "tax," meaning you have to bet $110 to win $100. It's how sports books make money for facilitating the wager. When placing any kind of bet, don't forget to account for the juice.
The Outcomes of Spread Betting: Win, Loss or Push
- Win: Your team covers the spread, and you receive your payout.
- Loss: Your team fails to cover, and you don't receive your payout.
- Push: The final score lands exactly on the spread; your original wager is refunded.
How to Bet Against the Spread (ATS)
To bet against the spread, simply wager on either side of the point spread. Whether you believe more in the favorite or the underdog to "cover," betting against the spread ensures your wager is as close to an equal bet as possible.
Point Spreads Across Different Sports
NFL, College Football, NBA and College Basketball
Football and basketball are the kings of point spread betting due to the high-scoring nature of the games. These contests provide an increased variety of outcomes, meaning betting against the spread on a team you feel confident about can result in larger payouts.
Hockey (The Puck Line) and Baseball (The Run Line)
Hockey and baseball, by contrast, are much lower scoring affairs. In these sports, the spread is almost always set at 1.5 goals or runs. Point spread bets are less common in these sports.
Moneyline vs. Spread: Which Should You Choose?
| Bet Type | Goal | Risk | Best for |
| Spread | Pick who outperforms the margin of victory | Balanced | Experienced and strategic bettors |
| Moneyline | Pick the outright winner | Low on favorites, high on underdogs | New bettors |
When Should You Bet the Spread?
Consider betting the point spread when the game you want to bet on features a heavy favorite, when the moneyline payout would be too small. Or, when there is an underdog with high odds that you think can keep the game close (but maybe not win), the point spread on the underdog is a great option.
Point Spreads at TS Sports
TS Sports at Turning Stone Resort Casino is the premier place to wager on point spreads and follow along with the heart-stopping action. Did you know you can earn TS Rewards Points on wagers? Turn those points into dining or hotel stays and live larger than life at Turning Stone.
Remember betting is entertainment. Bet responsibly and never risk more than you can afford to lose.
