Table of Contents
Do not index
Do not index
Term
Alternate Spread
Quick Summary
Alternate spreads are betting lines that differ from the sportsbook’s default point spread. They allow you to either reduce your risk with lower payouts or increase your potential payout by taking on more risk. This article explains how alternate spreads work, how they’re priced, and when bettors might consider using them.
What Is an Alternate Spread?
An alternate spread is a variation of the main point spread offered by sportsbooks. Instead of accepting the default line (e.g., -4.5), bettors can “buy” or “sell” points to modify the spread in either direction:
- Buying points reduces risk, but lowers the payout
- Selling points increases risk, but raises the potential return
Alternate spreads are most common in point-based sports like NFL, NBA, and college basketball.
How Alternate Spreads Work
Example from an NBA Game (see screenshot on page 2):
Pacers vs. Thunder – Main line is OKC -4.5 / IND +4.5
Available alternate spreads:
- Pacers -9.5 at +1060
- Pacers -4.5 at +506
- Thunder -4.5 at -790
- Thunder +9.5 at -2900
.png?table=block&id=21f165a8-57b0-8047-9fca-ddf9f71df143&cache=v2)
This lets the bettor choose the point spread that matches their game prediction, adjusting the risk-reward ratio accordingly.
Buy vs. Sell Points
Buying Points (Lower Risk, Lower Reward)
You adjust the spread in your favor. For example, betting Thunder +9.5 means your bet wins even if they lose by 9. But the odds drop to -2900, offering minimal return.
Selling Points (Higher Risk, Higher Reward)
You give up margin in exchange for better odds. Betting Pacers -9.5 pays +1060 but requires a win by 10+ points.
When to Consider Alternate Lines
- You expect a blowout: Selling points can increase payout when you expect a dominant win
- You want a safety cushion: Buying points softens the line but lowers the return
- You spot a mismatch: Use alternate spreads to capitalize on your prediction of a mispriced line
- You're building a parlay: Buying a few points can improve stability across legs
- The default spread doesn’t match your analysis: Alternate lines let you tailor bets to your read
Best Practices
- Don’t chase longer odds blindly: Only sell points if the team can realistically outperform the new spread
- Use key numbers: In NFL/NBA, numbers like 3, 7, and 10 are common margins of victory—structure alternate spreads accordingly
- Compare across sportsbooks: Alternate spread prices vary significantly by operator
- Monitor movement: Watching live line changes helps time your bet more effectively
- Use alternate spreads to hedge parlays: Buying a point on a fragile leg adds margin without scrapping the entire ticket
Frequently Asked Questions
Are alternate spreads available for all sports?
They’re most common in point-spread sports like NFL, NBA, and college games. Some books also offer them in MLB and soccer.
What is an alternate run line?
It’s the baseball version of alternate spreads. Instead of the standard -1.5/+1.5, you may find options like -2.5 or +2.5.
What does -6.5 mean as an alternate spread?
You’re betting on a team to win by 7 or more points.
What does +1.5 spread mean?
You win if your team either wins the game or loses by just 1 point.
Where do I find alternate spreads on a sportsbook?
Look for tabs or dropdowns labeled “Alternate Spread” or “Alt Line” within the game’s betting section.
Learn More
Explore more foundational betting guides at The Advantage, where we help you understand the math, mechanics, and terminology behind every major betting market.