Point spread betting is one of the most popular forms of betting on sports. It involves betting on the margin of victory between two teams, with the favorite team being given a handicap to level the playing field. This guide will help you understand point spreads, point spread line movements, calculating payouts, the benefits of point spread betting, and strategies for winning.
Point Spread Betting: Understanding Point Spreads
Point spreads are used to level the playing field between two teams. The favorite team is given a handicap (points that must be subtracted from their final score), while the underdog is given a head start (points that are added to their final score). For example, if the point spread is -3.5, the favorite team must win by more than 3.5 points for the bet to be a winner. If you bet on the underdog, they must either win the game outright or lose by less than 3.5 points.
Point Spread Line Movement
Point spreads can move depending on the amount of money bet on each team. If a lot of money is bet on the favorite, the point spread may increase to encourage more bets on the underdog. Conversely, if a lot of money is bet on the underdog, the point spread may decrease to encourage more bets on the favorite.
Public vs Sharps Line Moves
Public line moves occur when a lot of casual bettors are betting on one team, causing the point spread to move. Sharps line moves occur when professional bettors (also known as “sharps”) bet heavily on one team, causing the point spread to move.
Point Spread Betting Payouts
To determine point spread betting payouts, understand that most spread bets are based on -110 odds for both the favorite or underdog. For example, if you bet $100 on a team with -3.5 odds and they win by more than 3.5 points, you would win $90.91 (your original $100 bet plus $90.91 in winnings). To win a flat $100, you would bet $110 to win $100 profit(plus your original $110 bet back for a total return of $210).
Benefits of Point Spread Betting
Point spread betting can be a fun and exciting way to bet on sports. It gives you a rooting interest in the game and can make even a blowout game interesting. It also allows you to bet on underdogs without having to bet on them to win outright.
Strategy: How to Win with Point Spread Betting
One strategy for winning with point spread betting is to bet on the underdog when the point spread is large in highly competitive professional sports leagues like the NFL. Since the underdog is given a head start, they only need to lose by less than the point spread to cover the bet. Another strategy is to look for games with a small point spread that you feel the favorite is undervalued in, as the payout will be better betting the favorite to cover the spread as opposed to betting them on the moneyline.
Handicapping: Analyzing Teams and Matchups
Handicapping involves analyzing teams and matchups to determine which team is more likely to cover the point spread. Factors to consider include injuries, recent form, trends and head-to-head history. t VegasSI.com, we offer both daily free sports picks and premium expert sports picks from the nation’s BEST professional handicappers to help you win.
The Importance of Bankroll Management
Bankroll management is crucial when it comes to point spread betting. You should never bet more than you can afford to lose, and you should never chase losses by betting more than you originally planned.
Common Point Spread Betting Mistakes to Avoid
Common point spread betting mistakes include betting on favorites too often, not doing enough research, and betting too much money on a single game.
Tips and Tricks for Successful Point Spread Betting
Tips for successful point spread betting include finding value in the point spread, being patient and waiting for the right opportunities, and keeping up-to-date with team news and injury reports.
In conclusion, point spread betting is a popular and exciting way to bet on sports. By understanding point spreads, line movements, and payout calculations, as well as having a solid strategy and practicing good bankroll management, you can increase your chances of winning. Keep these tips and tricks in mind and enjoy the thrill of point spread betting!
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