The spread in sports betting refers to even the odds between two teams that are unevenly matched. Bookmakers will set a spread so they can incentivize betting action on both sides of the game. They want to receive fairly even money from those betting for either team. The better team playing is considered the favorite and is listed as being minus (-) the point spread. The other team is the underdog and is listed as being plus (+) the point spread.
Betting on the spread
When you do Super Star Gossip Christmas Betting on the spread, you bet on the margin of victory or defeat. For example, if a team is -9.5 points, it means that it is the favorite and must win by at least 10 points. The other team at +9.5 points is the underdog. If it wins the game outright or loses by an amount smaller than the +9.5 point spread, it is a winning bet.
Many Pennsylvania online sports betting sites offer point spread betting, which has become one of the most popular forms of sports betting today.
How are spreads calculated?
Oddsmakers build mathematically-driven ratings for every team before a season. They use those ratings and other factors like a home-field advantage to create a point spread in advance of a scheduled game. Bettors begin wagering on the initial point spread which influences it and moves it to the most accurate number.
What can influence the spread?
Sportsbook operators tweak the spread as games are played. They can move the spread if they see a side isn’t getting any action. Any unforeseen changes in weather, injuries, or suspensions can also impact the spread. Those spending time online can see just how a spread can change.
There are also certain point spread numbers that sportsbook operators would rather avoid, such as the numbers 3 and 7 in football. In football, the final margin score often falls on these numbers. If the point spread is a whole number and the underdog wins by exactly that number, it’s called a push and all bets are refunded.
Point spread betting odds
When you file for tax, filing online is probably the most convenient way to do it and when you’re gambling, doing so online means you can bet from anywhere at any time. Point spreads are usually set with -110 odds, as is the case when online gambling at Parx Casino. The odds can fluctuate depending upon the sportsbook. To help understand the risk and reward, the number next to the spread (-110) shows the amount a bettor has to bet to win $100. This is called the “juice,” which gives the sportsbook a 10% cut. It means that for every $1 you want to win, you have to bet $1.10.
