What Is a Point Spread and How Does It Work?

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Point Spread

Quick Summary

A point spread is a way to balance betting between two uneven teams by applying a margin of victory. Instead of just picking a winner, you predict whether a team will outperform or underperform a set number of points. This guide explains how point spreads work, how to read them, and when they’re most effective.

What Is a Point Spread?

The point spread is a number set by sportsbooks to create even odds between two teams by handicapping the favorite and giving the underdog a head start.

Favorites are labeled with a minus (−): must win by more than the spread

Underdogs are labeled with a plus (+): can win outright or lose within the spread

Juice (vig) is the fee charged by the sportsbook (e.g., -110 = risk $110 to win $100)

How to Read a Point Spread

Let’s say the Eagles are favored to beat the Cowboys:

Eagles -6.5 (-120)

Cowboys +6.5 (-102)

A bet on the Eagles only wins if they win by 7 or more. A Cowboys bet wins if they win outright or lose by 6 or fewer.

Example 2: NBA Spread

Pacers +8 (-112)

Cavaliers -8 (-106)

If Cleveland wins by 9+, they cover. If Indiana loses by 7 or fewer—or wins—the Pacers cover.

How Sportsbooks Set and Move Spreads

Spreads aren’t static. They evolve based on betting volume and new information.

Step 1: Set the Opening Line

Based on statistical models, player injuries, home advantage

Step 2: Respond to Market Action

If too much money lands on one side, sportsbooks shift the line to even out risk

Step 3: Adjust for News or Trends

Injury reports, weather, and public perception can all move the line

Other Factors That Influence Spreads

Public perception: Popular teams may be overvalued

Weather: Can suppress scoring and tighten spreads

Injuries: Key player absences may swing spreads several points

Historical matchups: Some teams consistently outperform others

How to Place a Point Spread Bet

Choose your game

Read the spread and odds

Pick a side (favorite or underdog)

Enter your stake

Confirm your bet

Why Spreads Matter

Point spreads level the betting field and create opportunities for bettors to find value—especially if they can spot sharp line movement or take positions before news moves the market.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the difference between point spreads and moneylines?

Spreads are about how much a team wins or loses by. Moneylines only ask who wins.

Why do spreads include half-points?

To prevent a tie (or “push”). A spread like 6.5 ensures a clear win/loss outcome.

Can spreads change before a game?

Yes. Spreads move frequently based on betting volume, injuries, and external news.

What happens if the final score lands exactly on the spread?

That’s called a push. Your stake is refunded.

What does it mean to “cover the spread”?

The favorite wins by more than the spread or the underdog stays within the spread.

Do all sportsbooks use the same spread?

Not always. That’s why line shopping across books can uncover better numbers.

How do sportsbooks profit from spread betting?

They take a cut from the juice (e.g., -110 odds), ensuring a margin regardless of outcome.

Is betting spreads better than totals or moneylines?

It depends on the matchup. Spreads may offer more value but carry more risk than simpler bet types.

Can I live bet on spreads?

Yes. Live spreads update in real time based on in-game momentum and score changes.

What does a negative spread mean?

That team is the favorite. They must win by more than the spread for your bet to win.

Learn More

To dive deeper into spread-based markets, including alternate lines and teasers, check out more educational articles at The Advantage.