Table of Contents
Definition Graphic
Definition Graphic
Do not index
Do not index
Review
Fact Checked
Term
Teaser Bet
Quick Summary
A teaser bet is a type of parlay that allows you to shift point spreads or totals in your favor across multiple games. This reduces risk compared to standard parlays, but also lowers the payout. Teasers are especially popular in football and basketball.
What Is a Teaser Bet?
Teasers adjust the betting line on multiple wagers by a set number of points. All legs must win for the teaser to pay out. If one leg loses, the bet loses. If a leg pushes, it is usually voided and the teaser is recalculated.
Key Characteristics
- Line Adjustment:
- Football: +6, +6.5, or +7 points
- Basketball: +4, +4.5, or +5 points
- Applies To: Point spreads and totals only
- Minimum Legs: 2 (some sportsbooks allow up to 10)
- Payouts: Lower than standard parlays due to added margin
- Push Rules: Pushes often void the leg and recalculate payout
Example: Spread Teaser
Original lines:
- Eagles -7 vs Cowboys
- Vikings -1.5 vs Steelers
After a 6-point teaser:
- Eagles -7 → Eagles -1
- Vikings -1.5 → Vikings +4.5
Winning conditions:
- Eagles must win by 2 or more
- Vikings must win or lose by 4 or fewer
.png?table=block&id=222165a8-57b0-8091-9b66-f487c4230c16&cache=v2)
If either leg loses, the teaser fails. If one leg pushes, the rules vary by book, but most will void that leg and return the stake in 2-leg teasers.
Example: Totals Teaser
Original totals:
- Eagles vs Cowboys: 46.5
- Vikings vs Steelers: 42.5
With a 6-point teaser:
- Under bet becomes: 52.5 and 48.5
- Over bet becomes: 40.5 and 36.5
This allows more margin for scoring variance while still requiring both legs to cash.
Payout Comparison
- Standard 2-leg parlay: +260
- 2-leg 6-point teaser: ~ -110
This reflects the reduced risk—teasers are easier to hit, but offer smaller returns.
When Are Teasers Worth It?
Teasers can be useful in the right situations, but overuse without value consideration can erode profit.
- Target key numbers in football (e.g., 3 and 7)
- Avoid volatile matchups or inflated totals
- Only tease through valuable lines—not just to improve aesthetics
“Wong Teasers”
- Named after Stanford Wong, this strategy involves teasing favorites of -7.5 to -8.5 down to -1.5 or underdogs of +1.5 to +7.5 up to +7.5 or more.
- Works best in low-total NFL games.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a teaser bet in sports betting?
A teaser is a parlay where you adjust spreads/totals across multiple games. All legs must win.
Why do teaser bets pay less than parlays?
Because you’re getting an advantage on the lines, the payout is reduced to account for the lower risk.
What happens if one leg of a teaser pushes?
In most cases, that leg is voided. In a 2-leg teaser, this usually results in a refund.
Can I bet teasers live?
Typically no—teasers are usually only available pregame due to the speed at which live lines move.
What is a Wong teaser?
A strategy that targets specific point ranges in football spreads to cross through key numbers (3, 7).
Can I mix spreads and totals in a teaser?
Yes, as long as both legs meet the minimum teaser requirements.
Do teasers work in college football or basketball?
Yes, but variance is higher, so value must be evaluated carefully.
Can I cash out a teaser early?
Some sportsbooks offer early cashout options for teasers, but this varies widely.
Learn More
Explore more foundational guides to multi-leg wagers, spread strategies, and bankroll risk management at The Advantage.