Point Spread Betting
A point spread is a handicap the sportsbook applies to the favorite to even out the matchup. The favorite "gives" points, the underdog "gets" points, and your job is to predict which side will cover.
How to Read a Spread
If the Patriots are listed at -6.5 against the Jets at +6.5, the Patriots must win by 7 or more for a Patriots bet to cash. A Jets bet wins if they lose by 6 or fewer — or win outright.
The (-110) is the "juice" or "vig" — the sportsbook's commission. Most spreads in NFL and NBA carry -110 on both sides.
Key Numbers
In the NFL, scoring clusters around margins of 3 and 7 (field goals and touchdowns). A spread of -3 or -7 sits on a key number. Buying or selling half-points across those numbers changes the price meaningfully. In the NBA the key numbers are less pronounced but margins of 5, 7, and 9 still matter.
Alternate Spreads
Both Caesars and DraftKings offer alternate spreads: take the Patriots at -10.5 (longer odds, higher payout) or +1.5 (shorter odds, safer). Use alternate spreads to lock in better numbers or buy off key numbers.
Hockey & Baseball Lines
- Puck Line (NHL): always -1.5 / +1.5, with juice instead of variable point spreads.
- Run Line (MLB): always -1.5 / +1.5, juice varies.
Continue with: Totals (Over/Under) →
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