Point spread betting is one of the most popular ways to wager on sports. But what is it? How does it work? And how can increase your chances of winning? In this post, we’ll answer all of those questions and more! So keep reading to learn everything you need to know about point-spread betting in sports.
What is Point Spread Betting?
Point spread betting is one of the most popular ways to bet on sports in the United States. It’s a way for gamblers to even out the playing field, as it were, by giving underdog teams a bit of a head start.
In this betting option, the outcome of a game is determined by subtracting or adding points to one team’s score. That handicapped score determines who wins in the eyes of the bettor.
How Does Point Spread Betting Work?
Point spread betting works by giving each team a point “spread” that the bettor can use to determine whether they win or lose.
For example, the Cincinnati Bengals are set to face off against the Philadelphia Eagles in the NFL regular season, and the point spread is 5.5 points. This means that if you bet on the Bengals, they must win by six or more points for you to win your wager.
Conversely, if you bet on the Eagles – even if they lose – as long as they don’t lose by more than 5.5 points, you will win your wager.
Yes, the winner in the match is not always the winning bet on spread betting. This is a way for sportsbooks to even up the match, but the odds will also even up. For the people who want to bet on the favorites, this will be the riskier, yet more rewarding option. For those who want to bet on the underdogs, this will be the more conservative, yet less rewarding option.
Spread vs Runline
Runline bets are associated with baseball, as they involve picking a winner with a positional spread included so that a team needs to either win by 2 or more runs (over) or lose by 1 run or less (under). On the other hand, Spread betting is much more flexible in terms of the variety of sports to which it can be applied.
Tips for Point Spread Betting
To ensure that you make the most of point-spread betting, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
Research for Betting Trends
the world of sports betting also has statistics related to the type of bets, just like the against-the-spread (ATS) record. ATS record will show the betting success of teams when it comes to spread betting. This will be helpful when learning which teams are good and bad at covering spreads.
Do Your Research on Team Stats
It’s important to do your research before you bet, especially if you’re planning to bet against the spread. Look into a team’s history, past performances – both home and away – injuries, and any other relevant information that could affect the outcome of a game.
Be Aware of Injuries and Suspensions
Injuries can drastically change a team’s chances of winning and they should always be taken into consideration when placing bets. Also, keep an eye out for suspensions or other off-field issues that could potentially disrupt a team’s performance. A team may have a good ATS record, but this may significantly change when their core players are out.
Shop for the Best lines
There are numerous sportsbooks in Ohio, and each one offers different lines. Shop around and compare the lines before placing your bets, as this could mean the difference between a winning bet and a losing one.
Is it worth It?
Point spread betting can be a lucrative way to have a more thrilling experience when watching games, but it comes with its own set of risks. Be sure to gamble responsibly and research the teams involved in order to maximize your chances of success.
