Point spreads are one of the most popular markets on online sports betting sites. When it comes to sports like basketball (NBA) and football (NFL), mastering the complexities of point-spread betting is a must. But how do point spreads work, exactly?
Point Spreads Betting Explained
Think of point spreads as point handicaps for both teams. It is clear that most games are between teams that are not equal, so sportsbooks assign spreads to both sides to make the game more equal. Thus, point spreads betting can be a little more even on the betting odds, as opposed to the moneyline.
Point spreads manifest as either a positive number or negative number which indicates how much is added or subtracted from the team’s final score, respectively.
For example, if the New England Patriots are “+3”, it means three points are added to their final score. On the contrary, if the Buffalo Bills are “-3”, it means three points are deducted from their score after the game.
To “cover a spread” means that the team must win the game after points are added or subtracted from their final score.
Using the example above, if the Bills defeat the Patriots 20-14, the Bills have “covered the spread” being that subtracting three points from 20 is 17, which still beats the Patriots’ 14 points.
Three Tips When Betting on the Point Spread
Understanding the point spread is the first step to making the most of it. With the betting spreads explained, take into consideration these three tips before staking your money.
Also Learn All About How to Understand Betting Scores and Odds
Pros vs Cons
🔷 Pros
🔶 Cons
Examples of Finding The Best Point Spreads
Going into more detail in finding the best point spreads, the movement of the numbers can be beneficial, depending on what direction they are going. The strategy could be different for those betting chalk (favorites) or betting on underdogs.
Toronto Raptors +7 -110
Brooklyn Nets -7 -110
Toronto Raptors +7½ -110
Brooklyn Nets -7½ -110
Depending on who you are siding with, the adjustment in the spread could be good. If you are siding with the Nets, an increase in their spread will make it a bit harder to cash as your bet will lose on a seven-point win at -7½ but will push at -7.
If you are siding with the Raptors, the underdogs, the additional ½ is better as a seven-point loss will still cash your bet at +7½ though, at the original +7, your bet will push. This is why line shopping is essential before wagering.
Conclusion
Point spreads are simple to understand, but can involve plenty of strategies for betting. It affords bettors plenty of flexibility, which is why it’s one of the most popular markets on the betting lines.
Monitoring the point spread line movement and shopping for the best lines are one of the ways to get the “best bang for your buck.”
