New to point spreads? Good place to start. These beginner guides strip out the jargon and walk through exactly how spread betting works — from reading the line to placing a first legal wager.
What is a point spread, exactly?
The spread is a margin set by oddsmakers. The favorite has to win by more than that number. The underdog just has to lose by less — or win outright. The plain-English explanation of the point spread covers this in full detail.
Why does -110 show up on every spread bet?
That number is the vig — the sportsbook's built-in cut. At -110, a $110 wager wins $100 in profit. The extra $10 is the house edge. How -110 odds work breaks down the math behind every spread bet.
What happens when the score lands right on the number?
That's a push. Full wager refunded, no winner, no loser. Cover and push outcomes explained shows exactly how sportsbooks grade those results.
How do I actually place a spread bet?
Pick a licensed sportsbook, fund your account, find the game, select the spread, enter a stake, and confirm. The step-by-step spread bet walkthrough goes through each screen. For funding, see deposit and withdrawal options for sportsbook accounts.
Is it legal where I live?
Spread betting is legal online in 30-plus states as of 2024 — NJ, PA, MI, CO, IL, NY, AZ, and more. It's still off the table in CA, TX, UT, and HI. Which US states have live regulated spread betting has the current list.
Where should a beginner sign up?
FanDuel, DraftKings, BetMGM, and Caesars are the biggest licensed operators. Each is available in most legal states. The top-rated sportsbooks for betting the spread page compares them on lines and features. Once you're comfortable, line shopping between books is the easiest way to keep more of your money.
Must be 21+ in most states (18+ in a small number of states). Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.
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