Point Spread
A handicap applied to the favorite to create a more even betting market.
A point spread is a number set by oddsmakers that the favorite must win by (cover) for a bet on them to pay out. The underdog can lose by less than the spread (or win outright) for a bet on them to cash.
Spreads exist to create roughly equal action on both sides of a game. In the NFL, a typical spread might be -3 or -7 (reflecting common scoring margins). In the NBA, spreads can be 10+ points for mismatches.
Betting against the spread (ATS) is the most popular form of sports betting. The standard odds for spread bets are -110 on both sides, meaning you need to win 52.38% of your bets to be profitable.
Example
Kansas City Chiefs -6.5 means they must win by 7+ points for a spread bet on them to pay. If they win 24-20, the underdog covers.
Related Terms
Cover
Winning a bet against the point spread.
Push
A bet result where the outcome lands exactly on the spread or total, resulting in a refund.
Vig (Vigorish)
The commission a sportsbook charges on a bet, built into the odds.
Moneyline
A bet on which team or player will win a game outright, with no point spread.
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