VA
  • TGT on YouTube
  • About TGT
  • The TGT Team
  • How TGT rates
  • Responsible Gambling Advice
  • Contact Our Team
  • Writers Wanted
  • Content Disclaimer
  • Affiliate Disclosure
Contains commercial content
The Grueling Truth - Where Legends Speak / Betting Guide / Best Spread Betting Strategy 2023

Best Spread Betting Strategy 2023

Publish Date: 02/08/2022
Fact checked by: Mike Goodpaster

Spread Strategies for Betting

Sports betting point spread is among the most popular betting markets in the US, second only to Moneyline. Sometimes point spread markets are the best market available for a game, especially when the Moneyline odds are very low.

What does point spread mean? How can you achieve success with sports betting spread? What is Bankroll betting, and how to manage it? These are some of the questions we have attempted to cover in this updated strategy guide for all the hopeful bettors in 2023.

Sports betting spreads explained

Sports is a very competitive and unpredictable industry. However, there would be some teams that are obviously stronger and some that are weaker. Moreover, being the favorite to win, betting on the stronger teams usually gives you minimal payouts.

This is where the sports betting spread comes in. Spreads, or lines, help even out the odds between two unevenly matched teams. So rather than betting on a simple win-lose situation, sports betting spread gives you a chance to enhance the odds by factoring in a few conditions. You can also check out our sports betting for beginners guide to learn more about sports betting.

What does point spread mean?

A point spread is a range of possible outcomes, i.e., the margin of the victory or loss in the game. You wager on a team to not only win but also predict the team to win by more than the number of points estimated by the provider. The estimate provided by the provider is called a spread, and you can read the odds here by looking at the number displayed near the odds. Your gambling operator will set a handicap between the two teams, and the point spread will have a negative value on the favorite team. In contrast, they will assign the positive value to the underdogs.

For example, in a LA Galaxy versus Inter Miami soccer match, you might see -2.5 against Miami. It simply means that you are betting on Miami to win by 3 or more goals.

How spreads work in sports betting?

Let’s take a look at an example to understand how it works:

Assume that the bookmaker specified a spread of 5.5 points in an NFL game.

The perceived stronger team is the favorite while the weaker one is the underdog. The favorite is denoted by the minus sign (-) while the underdog by the plus sign (+).

If you bet on the underdog, you will win the bet only if the underdog’s score plus the point spread is greater than the favorite’s score.

  • If the eventual score is Underdog: 10 and Favorite: 13, 10+5.5 > 13, which means you win the bet.
  • If the eventual score is Underdog: 10 and Favorite: 16, 10+5.5 < 16, which means you lose the bet.

In contrast, if you place a bet on the favorite, you will win if the favorite’s score minus the spread is greater than the underdog’s score.

  • If the eventual score is Underdog: 10 and Favorite: 13, 13-5.5 < 10, which means you lose the bet.
  • If the eventual score is Underdog: 10 and Favorite: 16, 16-5.5 > 10, which means you win the bet.

You may have come across a number next to the spread in American sportsbooks, which is most often -110. What does it mean?

This is the odds the sportsbook is offering for this points spread bet. This means for every $1 that you wish to win, you have to risk $1.10. So, if you want to make a profit of $50, you would be betting $55.

The best online bookmakers

BetMGM
1.
Favicon
4.6/5
up to $1,500 back in Bonus Bets
Virginia
Players from Virginia accepted
PayNearMe
PayPal
Bank Transfer
Virginia (US) Lottery Board
Visit Site
T&Cs apply, 21+
Bet365
2.
Favicon
4.6/5
Bet $1 & Get $365 in Bonus Bets
Virginia
Players from Virginia accepted
Virginia (US) Lottery Board
Visit Site
T&Cs apply, 21+
Bet $1 and Get $365in Bonus Bets at bet365. Deposit required. Bonus Bets winnings are added to Bonus Bets balance. Bonus Bet wager excluded from returns. T&Cs, time limits and exclusions apply. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-Gambler 21+
Caesars
3.
Favicon
4.5/5
Virginia
Players from Virginia accepted
E-Check
PayNearMe
Skrill
Virginia (US) Lottery Board
Visit Site
T&Cs apply, 21+
PointsBet
4.
Favicon
4.5/5
5 x $50Bet Credits
Virginia
Players from Virginia accepted
E-Check
Prepaid Card
PayNearMe
Virginia (US) Lottery Board
Visit Site
T&Cs apply, 21+
BetRivers.com
5.
Favicon
4.5/5
Virginia
Players from Virginia accepted
PayNearMe
Bank Transfer
VIP Preferred
Virginia (US) Lottery Board
Visit Site
T&Cs apply, 21+

Types of sports betting spread

Now let’s have a look at a range of points spread available in the online sports betting market in the USA.

NFL Spread

NFL is probably the biggest and most popular sports league in the country, with a wide range of betting markets available for you. When it comes to wagering on NFL games, the teams are assigned a spread of predicted winning margin. As explained in the above section, you win the bet if your selection is able to meet this spread. However, the exact value of the spread will vary with the quality of teams in action.

NBA Spread

NBA Spread is also quite similar to the NFL Spread, where the favorite team is assigned a spread for the projected winning margin. Again, the favored team needs to win by more than the spread for you to have a positive wager. If you bet on the underdog, they need to lose by fewer points or win outright. Depending on the difference in the quality of teams in action, NBA point spread can vary between as low as 1.5 to 8.5.

NHL Puck Line

In the NHL Puck Line, the favorite team is assigned a puck line of -1.5, and the underdog is set a line of +1.5. Here, you have a chance of getting the payout in the range of -130 to +200.

If you are betting on your favorite team, they need to win by two or more goals for you to win the wager. In contrast, if you are betting on the underdog, they just need to lose by one goal or win the match outright for you to win the wager. However, it can turn into a costly decision, especially when the puck line is priced high. Therefore, you need to predict the outcome carefully and only bet when you have enough statistical backing.

MLB Run Line

MLB is also similar to the NHL Puck line, where the favorite team is assigned a run line of -1.5 while it is +1.5 for the underdog. You have a payout in the range of -130 to +200.

If you pick the favorite team, then your team has to win by two or more runs for you to win the bet. Similarly, for you to win a wager on the underdog, they need to lose by just one run or win the match outright. But, again, you need to be very careful when betting on the underdog.

Soccer

In soccer, there will be spreads when the two teams are unevenly matched. For example, the favorite team is usually given a spread between 1-3 goals, which means they have to win by more than that specified spread for you to win the wager.

Buying points on a sports betting point spread

Point spreads are very popular among sports bettors. Everyone loves a good point spread market to punt on. However, the lines may not always be favorable, and that’s where buying points come in.

The idea is that the bettors can buy points to move the point spread in their favor. While buying odds, you can purchase half a point, a full point, or a point and half. The exact number of points you can buy depends on the sportsbook you are buying from. However, keep in mind that the bookies usually charge a 10% fee for each half-point you purchase.

For example, let’s say you want to wager on the LA Rams at -4 (-110) against the Baltimore Ravens, who are +4 (-110). So, instead of just betting on the -4 spread for the Rams, you could also buy a half-point to make the spread -3.5 (-120) or take a full point to make it -3 (-130). Similarly, you could bet the underdog Ravens at +4.5 (-120) or +5.0 (-130) by buying a half-point or a full point.  A betting exchange is another platform where you can find variety in the spread market. To learn more about it, read this betting exchange explained guide.

Other types of bets

Now that you have a gist of point spread betting, let’s take a look at some of the other popular sports betting markets:

Moneyline bets

Moneyline bets are the standard and straightforward option you have when betting on any sport. You have to pick the winner based on the implied probability, that is, one team beating the other. Understanding this market is relatively easy here as Moneyline pays smaller returns for favorites and higher rewards for the underdogs. When you are betting, you are simply backing the outcome of one team to win or lose. Some betting sites also offer 3-Way Moneylines where you can bet on the match to end in a tie after regular time. Draw no bet is another market on the winners of the match. Don’t forget to check out our expert guide to learn more about what does draw no bet mean.

Over/Under bets

In sports betting explained, over/under bets are formulated through niche statistics like total points, runs, or goals scored by any team. The sportsbook will assign a number to the statistics in a game like the total points scored, total 3-pointers, total touchdowns, etc. You, as a bettor, will have to predict whether the actual score will go over or under this total.

For instance, take the case of an NFL match. If the oddsmaker has set the total cumulative points at 50, an over bet would need a combined total of 51 points or more. Similarly, an under bet would require the two teams to score under 49 for you to win. If the final score remains at 50 only, the stake will be returned to you. But keep in mind that Sportsbooks will consider only the statistics from regular time for settling the bet. So, even if the match is decided in overtime, points scored in the OT will not be included in determining the total score.

Parlay bets

A parlay bet is simply the combination of multiple bets tied together for a larger payout. However, the catch here is that all the selections need to have a positive outcome for you to win. So naturally, the more bets you add to a parlay, the greater the risk. However, the simple gambling rule always remains the same – the higher the risk, the higher the reward.  

Conclusion

Point spreads are generally good to go if you know the whole drill. They allow you to bet on favored teams even if the Moneyline odds aren’t favorable. You can also bet on the underdog team without worrying about the possibility of them winning the game. However, do keep in mind the risk involved while betting on point spreads in baseball or hockey matches.

As detailed in this sports betting spread explained article, it is advisable to know the risks associated with the market. Also, pay attention to line movement along with monitoring point spreads on multiple operators. Attention to detail can put you in the best position to succeed as a point spread bettor. Simply put, if you know the game well enough, then point spread markets can be a powerful tool to enhance your wagering bankroll.

Take your winnings further with great bonuses

BetMGM
1.
Favicon
4.6/5
up to $1,500 back in Bonus Bets
Virginia
Players from Virginia accepted
Min. Deposit: $10
Go to BetMGM
Get Bonus
T&Cs apply, 21+
Bet365
2.
Favicon
4.6/5
Bet $1 & Get $365 in Bonus Bets
Virginia
Players from Virginia accepted
Min. Deposit: $10
Go to Bet365
Get Bonus
T&Cs apply, 21+
Bet $1 and Get $365in Bonus Bets at bet365. Deposit required. Bonus Bets winnings are added to Bonus Bets balance. Bonus Bet wager excluded from returns. T&Cs, time limits and exclusions apply. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-Gambler 21+
Caesars
3.
Favicon
4.5/5
Virginia
Players from Virginia accepted
Get Bonus
T&Cs apply, 21+
PointsBet
4.
Favicon
4.5/5
5 x $50Bet Credits
Virginia
Players from Virginia accepted
Requirements (WR): 1x Deposit, Min. Deposit: $10
Copy
Get Bonus
T&Cs apply, 21+
BetRivers.com
5.
Favicon
4.5/5
Virginia
Players from Virginia accepted
Requirements (WR): 1x Deposit
Get Bonus
T&Cs apply, 21+

Sports betting point spread FAQ

🏈 What is Points Spread Betting?

Alongside Moneyline and over/under betting, points spread is one of the most popular betting markets in the US. To learn more about points betting and the best points betting strategies, read our expert betting guides at TheGruelingTruth.com.

💰 How do betting sites make money?

Sportsbooks and betting sites aren’t charity organizations, and they are businesses that make a lot of profit. To learn more about it, read our expert guide on how do betting-sites make money.

😎 What is the best strategy for sports betting?

Placing bets on your favorite teams and sports certainly enhances the thrill and excitement. So, if you’re among those who love betting on sports, then the following guide of the best betting strategies will undoubtedly help level up your betting game.

Read Also
Matched Betting Guide 2023
Finding a great betting strategy can go a long way towards helping ...
Draw No Bet Guide 2023
If you are here to find the answer to the question “What ...
BetMGM Promo
Asian Handicap Explained 2023
If you’re looking for Asian handicap explained in detail, then you’ve come ...
What Does 1×2 Mean in Betting?
The world of betting is filled with terminologies that newbies may find ...
Betting Exchange Explained 2023
Have you ever wondered what a draw no bet means? Or asked ...
How Bet on Sports for Beginners 2023
Millions of people in the United States and around the world enjoy ...
Pick 3 Strategy That Works 2023
There are a lot of different betting strategies you can use in ...
Best In-Play Betting Strategy 2023
More and more sports betting fans are opting to place in-play wagers. ...
A Complete Guide to System Bet 2023
If you need a system bet explained to you then you have ...
Complete Oddsmaker Guide 2023
There’s a sense of mystery behind the doors of sports betting. There ...
Sportsbook of the month
PointsBet - Get your Bonus Bet now! Get your Bonus Bet now!
Top Brands
Top Bonuses
Stake.us
Stake.us
Stake.us Review
4.6/5
Wow Vegas
Wow Vegas
Wow Vegas Review
4.6/5
High5Casino
High5Casino
High5Casino Review
4.5/5
Fortune Coins
Fortune Coins
Fortune Coins Review
4.5/5
Sweeptastic
Sweeptastic
Sweeptastic Review
4.5/5
Stake.us
Stake.us Bonus
$25 No Deposit + 250,000 Gold Coins + 5% Rakeback
T&Cs apply
4.6/5
Wow Vegas
Wow Vegas Bonus
30 SCs on 1st Purchase + 4.5 SCs FREE
T&Cs apply
4.6/5
High5Casino
High5Casino Bonus
$5 No Deposit + 250 GameCoins + 600 Diamonds
T&Cs apply
4.5/5
Fortune Coins
Fortune Coins Bonus
1,000 ($10) No Deposit Free Coins + 360,000 Gold Coins
T&Cs apply
4.5/5
Sweeptastic
Sweeptastic Bonus
Day 7: 50% extra: $50 = 75,000 LC + 75 SC
T&Cs apply
4.5/5
Latest News
Mac Jones not penalized for incident involving Sauce Gardner
The NFL will not fine New England Patriots ...
Top 10 One-Hit wonder seasons in Baseball History
This list is for players who had one ...
NFL revises gambling rules, strengthening ban for wagering on own team
The NFL is tightening its gambling rules for ...
Betting Tips
10/01/2023 - 1:00 pm
Highmark Stadium
Tip:
Bills to Cover
-2.00
FanDuel
10/01/2023 - 1:00 pm
Nissan Stadium
Tip:
Bengals to Cover
-2.50
FanDuel
10/01/2023 - 7:05 pm
Oriole Park, Camden Yards.
Tip:
Baltimore Orioles to Win
-115.00
FanDuel
Our Latest YouTube Videos
Video: Inside Boxing: Canelo vs Charlo Preview and Prediction
Inside Boxing: Canelo vs Charlo Preview and Prediction
Video: College Football Prediction show: Notre Dame vs Duke Preview and prediction!
College Football Prediction show: Notre Dame vs Duke Preview and prediction!
Video: Cincinnati Bearcats on the Prowl: Cincinnati vs BYU Preview and Oklahoma recap
Cincinnati Bearcats on the Prowl: Cincinnati vs BYU Preview and Oklahoma recap
Sportsbook of the month
PointsBet - Get your Bonus Bet now! Get your Bonus Bet now!
Find out what the legends have to say about sports this week....
Top Online Casinos
Top Casinos Bonuses
Stake.us
Stake.us
Stake.us Review
4.6/5
Wow Vegas
Wow Vegas
Wow Vegas Review
4.6/5
High5Casino
High5Casino
High5Casino Review
4.5/5
Fortune Coins
Fortune Coins
Fortune Coins Review
4.5/5
Sweeptastic
Sweeptastic
Sweeptastic Review
4.5/5
Stake.us
Stake.us Bonus
$25 No Deposit + 250,000 Gold Coins + 5% Rakeback
T&Cs apply
4.6/5
Wow Vegas
Wow Vegas Bonus
30 SCs on 1st Purchase + 4.5 SCs FREE
T&Cs apply
4.6/5
High5Casino
High5Casino Bonus
$5 No Deposit + 250 GameCoins + 600 Diamonds
T&Cs apply
4.5/5
Fortune Coins
Fortune Coins Bonus
1,000 ($10) No Deposit Free Coins + 360,000 Gold Coins
T&Cs apply
4.5/5
Sweeptastic
Sweeptastic Bonus
Day 7: 50% extra: $50 = 75,000 LC + 75 SC
T&Cs apply
4.5/5
Top Betting Sites
Top Betting Bonuses
BetMGM
BetMGM
BetMGM Review
4.6/5
Bet365
Bet365
Bet365 Review
4.6/5
Caesars
Caesars
Caesars Review
4.5/5
PointsBet
PointsBet
PointsBet Review
4.5/5
BetRivers.com
BetRivers.com
BetRivers.com Review
4.5/5
BetMGM
BetMGM Bonus
up to $1,500 back in Bonus Bets
T&Cs apply
4.6/5
Bet365
Bet365 Bonus
Bet $1 & Get $365 in Bonus Bets
T&Cs apply
4.6/5
Bet $1 and Get $365in Bonus Bets at bet365. Deposit required. Bonus Bets winnings are added to Bonus Bets balance. Bonus Bet wager excluded from returns. T&Cs, time limits and exclusions apply. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-Gambler 21+
PointsBet
PointsBet Bonus
5 x $50Bet Credits
T&Cs apply
4.5/5
Unibet
Unibet Bonus
$100 Second Chance Bet
T&Cs apply
4.5/5
21+ and physically present in VA only. Terms & Conditions apply. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, please call, text or chat, VA Council on Problem Gambling on their confidential and toll free helpline at: 1-888-532-3500.
FanDuel
FanDuel Bonus
Bet $5 Get $200 in Bonus Bets
T&Cs apply
4.5/5
Our Team
Mike GoodpasterAuthor IconJosh SchwartzSamuel TeetsSimon Briffa
+8
Mike Goodpaster
Mike Goodpaster
Chief Editor
Author Icon
Christopher Carlson
Content Writer
Josh Schwartz
Josh Schwartz
Editor
Samuel Teets
Samuel Teets
US Sports Veteran
Simon Briffa
Simon Briffa
Sports Editor
Mark Lewis
Mark Lewis
Editor
Chris Benedict
Chris Benedict
Editor
Author Icon
Daniel Kornhauser
Author
Author Icon
Malik Zorrok
Author
John Raspanti
John Raspanti
Author
Author Icon
Buddy Gibbs
Author
Brian Coburn
Brian Coburn
Author
Peter Bonahoom
Peter Bonahoom
Author
Find out what the legends have to say about sports this week....

If you enjoy hearing from the legends of pro sports, then be sure to tune into “The Grueling Truth” sports shows, “Where the legends speak”

Contact us: contact@thegruelingtruth.com

Players must be 21 years of age or older or reach the minimum age for gambling in their respective state and located in jurisdictions where online gambling is legal. Please play responsibly. Bet with your head, not over it. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, and wants help, call or visit: (a) the Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey at 1-800-Gambler or www.800gambler.org; or (b) Gamblers Anonymous at 855-2-CALL-GA or www.gamblersanonymous.org.

This site is using Cloudflare and adheres to the Google Safe Browsing Program. We adapted Google's Privacy Guidelines to keep your data safe at all times.

21+NCPG
Move to Top
Close
Players accepted in the US US Flag
Stake.us Exclusive Bonus
$25 No Deposit + 250,000 Gold Coins + 5% Rakeback
Promo Code
Copy
Visit Site
T&Cs apply, 18+
Payment Methods
Bitcoin
Litecoin
Ethereum
Dogecoin
Highlights
  • Exclusive promo code: TGTSOCIAL
  • Play Plinko, Hilo, Crash and more!
  • Get Stake Cash bonuses every day!
Stake Originals
Dice
Crash
Plinko
Mines
×
Your Promo Code:
The bonus offer of was already opened in an additional window. If not, you can open it also by clicking the following link:
Visit Site