What is a point spread and how does it work? The simplest explanation of spread betting for beginners.
A point spread is a handicap given to the underdog to level the playing field for bettors. If the Chiefs are -7 favorites, they need to win by more than 7 to cover. If the Raiders are +7 underdogs, they can lose by up to 6 and still cover. Bet the Chiefs: they need to win by 8+. Bet the Raiders: they can lose by 6 or fewer, tie, or win outright.
Chiefs -7 (-115) vs Raiders +7 (-105)
To bet Chiefs: risk $115 to win $100. Chiefs must win by 8+. To bet Raiders: risk $105 to win $100. Raiders must lose by 6 or fewer, or win. If Chiefs win by exactly 7: push (bet refunded).
The numbers in parentheses (-115, -105) are the juice — the sportsbook's cut. Standard is -110 on both sides. When you see -115/-105, the book is slightly shading one side. You want to bet the -105 side when possible.
Lines move when too much money comes in on one side. If everyone bets the Chiefs, the book moves the line to Chiefs -7.5 or Chiefs -8 to attract Raiders bettors. Sharp bettors watch line movement to see where smart money is going.
Before every bet, check 2-3 sportsbooks. A half-point difference — say -6.5 vs -7 on a spread — can be the difference between winning and pushing. This is why having accounts at multiple books is the single biggest edge available to recreational bettors.
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