Point Spreads

Overview

The point spread expresses the perceived difference in ability between two teams with a number. For example, if the oddsmakers believe that the Pittsburgh Steelers will beat the Arizona Cardinals by six points, then the spread will be six points in the Steelers’ favor (written as Steelers -6). Spreads can be half or whole numbers.

Determining Outcomes

To win a spread bet (known as covering), a team must perform better than the expected difference between the teams.Using the same example, the Cardinals may cover the spread by losing by five or fewer points, tying, or winning outright. The Steelers must win by more than six points to cover, and a six-point Steelers win would result in a push (when bettors are refunded their stake).