If you’ve ever placed a bet on a sporting event, you’ve probably come across the term “point spread.” It’s one of the most common — and most misunderstood — concepts in sports betting. The spread isn’t just about picking a winner; it’s about understanding how much a team is expected to win or lose by. Mastering it can turn a casual bettor into a strategic one.
This guide breaks down what the spread means, how it works, and how you can use it to make smarter betting decisions.
What Is the Point Spread?
The point spread is a handicap designed by oddsmakers to even the playing field between two teams. It represents the expected margin of victory in a game.
For example:
- Kansas City Chiefs -7 vs. Chicago Bears +7
This means the Chiefs are the favorite by 7 points, while the Bears are the underdog by the same amount.
- If you bet on the Chiefs, they must win by more than 7 points for your bet to win.
- If you bet on the Bears, your bet wins if they lose by fewer than 7 points or win the game outright.
- If the game ends with exactly a 7-point difference, it’s a push, and you get your money back.
Essentially, the spread allows both teams to attract balanced betting action — even if one team is clearly stronger.
Why the Spread Exists
Without the spread, everyone would simply bet on the stronger team, and sportsbooks would struggle to balance their books. The point spread creates fairness and excitement, giving bettors more reasons to wager on either side.
It also adds another layer of challenge. You’re not just betting on who wins, but by how much.
How to Read and Interpret Spreads
Spreads are always marked with a plus (+) or minus (–) sign:
- Minus (–) means the team is favored to win.
- Plus (+) means the team is the underdog.
Here’s another example:
- Lakers –5.5 vs. Warriors +5.5
If you bet on the Lakers, they must win by 6 or more points.
If you bet on the Warriors, they can either win outright or lose by 5 or fewer points.
The “.5” (called a half-point) eliminates the possibility of a tie or push.
The Spread in Different Sports
While spreads are most common in football and basketball, they’re also used in other sports under different names:
- Baseball: Run line (typically ±1.5 runs)
- Hockey: Puck line (typically ±1.5 goals)
- Soccer: Goal line (varies depending on teams and leagues)
Each sport adjusts spreads to reflect its scoring patterns and competitiveness.
How to Use the Spread Strategically
1. Study Team Performance Against the Spread (ATS)
A team’s win-loss record doesn’t always match its performance against the spread (ATS). Some underdogs consistently cover even when they lose outright. Checking ATS stats can reveal hidden betting value.
2. Consider Home and Away Factors
Home teams often perform better and may have slightly inflated spreads. Always compare how teams play in different environments before making your bet.
3. Watch for Line Movements
If the spread changes significantly before the game, it could indicate public bias or insider adjustments. Learning to spot sharp movements can help you find better odds.
4. Manage Your Bankroll
Spreads are designed to attract balanced action — meaning sportsbooks usually have the edge through the vig (or juice), a small commission. Always factor this into your risk and bet sizes.
Common Mistakes with Spread Betting
- Ignoring the half-point: A small decimal can change a win into a loss.
- Betting emotionally: Fans often overvalue their favorite team.
- Chasing losses: Doubling down after a bad beat is a quick way to lose control.
- Not considering matchups: Injuries, player fatigue, and weather can drastically affect outcomes.
Why Understanding the Spread Matters
Once you understand how spreads work, you gain a more analytical approach to betting. It’s no longer about guesswork — it’s about assessing performance, evaluating value, and predicting margins with confidence.
The spread transforms sports betting from luck into strategy, and that’s where the real skill lies.