What is Spread?
Definition
A handicap applied to a favored team to level the betting field. When you bet on a -6.5 spread, that team must win by 7 or more points to cover. Spreads are the most popular bet type in American football and basketball.
Related Terms
A form of wagering where one competitor receives a virtual advantage or disadvantage to equalize perceived chances. Asian handicaps in soccer eliminate the draw outcome entirely, while European handicaps allow ties.
A numerical representation of the likelihood of an outcome and the potential payout. Odds formats include decimal (2.50), fractional (3/2), and American (+150), each conveying the same probability differently.
A straight-up bet on which team or player will win, with no point spread involved. Favorites carry negative odds (e.g., -180) while underdogs carry positive odds (e.g., +150), reflecting the implied probability and payout ratio.