Spread betting is one of the most popular and commonly misunderstood forms of sports betting. Many bettors place spread bets every day without fully understanding how they work or why sportsbooks use them. Learning the basics of spread betting is a key step toward becoming a smarter and more disciplined bettor.
In this guide, we’ll explain what spread betting is, how it works, and how bettors can use it responsibly as part of a long-term betting strategy.
What Is Spread Betting?
So, what is spread betting exactly?
Spread betting is a type of wager where sportsbooks set a point spread to balance the odds between two teams. Instead of simply picking a winner, bettors wager on whether a team will win or lose by a certain number of points.
The spread is designed to make both sides of the bet equally attractive, regardless of how strong or weak a team is.
How Spread Betting Works
Let’s look at a simple example:
Team A: -6.5
Team B: +6.5
If you bet on Team A (-6.5), they must win by 7 points or more for your bet to win.
If you bet on Team B (+6.5), they can lose by 6 points or fewer, or win outright, and your bet still wins.
The spread removes the advantage of betting on heavy favorites and creates a more even betting market.
Why Sportsbooks Use Point Spreads
Sportsbooks use spreads to:
Balance betting action on both sides
Reduce risk
Encourage more wagering options
Without spreads, most bettors would only bet on favorites. Spread betting creates opportunity and challenge for both sides.
Common Sports That Use Spread Betting
Spread betting is most popular in:
Football (NFL, college football)
Basketball (NBA, college basketball)
It is less common in sports like baseball or soccer, where moneylines and totals are more frequently used.
Understanding Odds in Spread Betting
Most spread bets are priced around -110 odds, meaning:
You risk $110 to win $100.
This pricing reflects the sportsbook’s commission, also known as the “vig.” Understanding odds is just as important as understanding the spread itself.
Using a spread betting app can help bettors quickly compare spreads and odds across games, making it easier to spot value.
Advantages of Spread Betting
Spread betting offers several benefits:
More competitive betting lines
Higher payouts compared to heavy favorites
More strategic opportunities
It rewards bettors who understand matchups, trends, and game flow rather than simply picking winners.
Common Mistakes Bettors Make
Many bettors lose money on spreads because they:
Bet emotionally on favorite teams
Ignore injuries and game context
Chase losses
Overestimate favorites
Spread betting requires discipline and research, not impulse.
How to Improve at Spread Betting
To get better at spread betting:
Focus on one sport or league
Study team performance against the spread (ATS)
Monitor line movement
Manage bankroll carefully
Education plays a huge role in long-term success. Instead of guessing, bettors should aim to understand why a spread is set where it is.
Technology and Spread Betting Today
Modern bettors rely heavily on technology. A reliable spread betting app allows users to:
Track line movement
Compare spreads
Analyze trends
Learn from past bets
Platforms like Wagerflo are designed to help bettors understand betting concepts clearly, focusing on learning and smarter decision-making rather than hype or guaranteed picks.
Is Spread Betting Right for You?
Spread betting is ideal for bettors who:
Enjoy strategy and analysis
Prefer balanced odds
Want more than simple win-or-lose bets
However, it’s not suitable for those looking for quick wins or betting without research.
Final Thoughts
Understanding what spread betting is is essential for anyone serious about sports betting. The spread levels the playing field, challenges bettors to think strategically, and rewards informed decisions.
When used responsibly, spread betting can be a valuable tool in a bettor’s approach. With the help of a trusted spread betting app and an education-first platform like Wagerflo, bettors can build better habits, avoid common mistakes, and improve their long-term performance.
In sports betting, knowledge isn’t optional—it’s your biggest advantage.