Betting the underdog at +7.5 means they could still lose on the scoreboard but win at the sportsbook, but only if the final margin is fewer than eight points. That means they’d have to win by at least eight points to cash that bet. In our scenario, the favorite would be listed at -7.5. 5 even though there’s no way to score half a point in most sports. Since whole numbers leave the possibility for ties, most spreads end in. Their opponent, the underdog, would be listed at +7. This is the bettor’s answer to “how many points would you have to spot this bad team in order for them to beat a better team?” Let’s say the favorite in an NFL game is favored to win by a touchdown they’d have a -7 distinction on the betting line. Let’s discuss the terms you need to know:Ī number created for every betting matchup the goal is to have an equal amount bet on each side Fortunately, we’ve got you covered with some basics that can offer betting insight beyond smiling and nodding when your friends bring up overs, unders and the spread. That can be overwhelming if you’re new to the game. Suddenly there’s a new angle to primetime NBA games and NFL Sundays beyond wins, losses, and playoff races. What was once limited, legally, to Nevada has taken root in states across the country as sportsbooks open up shop wherever legislation allows.

Sports betting has exploded across America following the 2018 Supreme Court ruling that struck down the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act.

Sports betting for dummies cheat sheet