NFL betting spread odds, also known as point spread betting, is one of the most popular forms of wagering on professional football games. The spread is designed to level the playing field between two teams of different skill levels, making the betting more balanced and attractive to bettors on both sides.
In spread betting, bookmakers assign a point margin to the favored team, which they must win by for bets on them to pay out. Conversely, the underdog team can lose by less than this margin (or win outright) for bets on them to be successful. For example, if the New England Patriots are favored by 7 points (-7) against the Miami Dolphins (+7), the Patriots must win by more than 7 points for bets on them to pay out. Bets on the Dolphins would win if they either win the game outright or lose by less than 7 points.
Typically, the odds for spread bets are close to even money, often set at -110 on both sides. This means a bettor must wager $110 to win $100, with the extra $10 serving as the bookmaker’s commission, also known as the “vig” or “juice.” The point spread can shift leading up to the game based on factors such as team news, injuries, or betting patterns. Skilled bettors often look for value in these movements, sometimes “buying” half-points to adjust the spread slightly in their favor, albeit at a cost of less favorable odds.
How to Read NFL Spread Odds (With Examples)
Point spread odds show how much a team is expected to win or lose by, and they also reveal which side the sportsbook sees as stronger. Here’s a quick example:
| Matchup | Spread | Odds | Result Needed to Win Bet |
|---|---|---|---|
| Patriots vs Dolphins | -7 | -110 | Patriots must win by 8+ points |
| Dolphins vs Patriots | +7 | -110 | Dolphins win OR lose by 6 or less |
If the Patriots win by exactly 7, the bet is a push and your stake is refunded.
Tips for Betting NFL Point Spreads
- Pay attention to key numbers like 3 and 7 — many games end with margins around these figures.
- Look for line movement during the week. If the spread shifts, it might reflect important news or heavy betting action.
- Consider buying half-points to move off or onto key numbers, but be aware this comes with higher juice.
- Don’t blindly bet favorites. Underdogs can cover even if they don’t win outright.
- Compare lines across sportsbooks — some may offer a half-point advantage.
Pros and Cons of Spread Betting
Pros
- More balanced odds (usually -110), making it easier to manage risk
- Built-in fairness by leveling mismatched games
- Offers better value than moneyline bets in many matchups
Cons
- More complex than moneyline for new bettors
- Hook (half-point) losses can be frustrating
- Requires tracking line movement to find the best edge
Live Spread Betting in the NFL
In-play spread betting lets you wager during the game as odds adjust to match momentum, scoring, and injuries.
For example, if the underdog takes an early lead, the live spread may shift dramatically in favor of the favorite. This can present opportunities for middle bets or value plays if you’re following the action closely.
Be aware that live spread lines update quickly, and timing is key to capturing favorable numbers.
NFL Spread Betting FAQ
- What does -110 mean in spread betting?
- What happens if the team wins by the exact spread number?
- Is spread betting better than moneyline?
- Can I include spreads in a parlay?
Bet on NFL with the Best Sportsbooks
