meaning of points spread in basketball betting

What Does -110 Mean Next to the Spread?Ī point spread is a bet on the margin of victory in a game. Point Spreads, Explained Click a section to jump ahead.ģ. Germany, or Chiefs total touchdowns -1.5 vs. Sportsbooks apply the spread concept to way more than just the final score. So if you're betting the 49ers at -3 (-110), you must risk $1.1 for every $1 you want to win.

There's also an associated cost with betting each spread, listed next to the margin of victory.

49ers win by exactly 3: It's a push, and bets are refunded.

Steelers win the game: Steelers bettors win.

49ers win by 1-2 points: Steelers bettors win.

49ers win by 4+ points: 49ers bettors win.

The Steelers are a +3 underdog against the 49ers. Let's use a 2023 NFL Week 1 game as an example. The worse team (the underdog) can lose by fewer than that same amount of points, or just win the game. The perceived stronger team (the favorite) must win by a certain number of points/runs/goals to cash your bet. It's the most popular bet type in basketball and football. A point spread is simply a bet on the margin of victory.

Meaning of points spread in basketball betting