Video Summary

When it comes to sports betting, understanding the point spread, or line, can be a challenge for new punters. The point spread is the difference in points scored by opposing teams in a competition, providing the starting point for bettors to decide if the margin of victory will be larger or smaller than the estimated difference. To identify the spread, look for the minus symbol, which identifies the matchup and the favored market.

When examining the line, a plus sign indicates that a team must not lose by more than that number, while a minus sign means the favorite must win by more than that given number. In an example scenario, Team B is listed at minus two, which identifies them as the favorite and sets the margin of victory at two points, making Team A predicted to lose by two points or more.

To cover the spread, one team must perform better against the projected estimate. If Team B wins by three points, they cover the spread by winning by more than two points; if they win by one point, Team A covers the spread by losing by less than two points. Winning by exactly two points results in a push, with neither team covering the spread. To avoid exact score situations, sportsbooks often set spreads at half-point numbers, such as 7.5, to encourage bettors to make a choice. With practice, understanding the point spread will become second nature, allowing you to make informed betting decisions.