What does -3.5 mean in a point spread?

Pronunciation

/-ʔɛn wʊn poiːnt spred/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Noun phrase

Definition

A point spread in sports betting where one team is favored to win by 3.5 points, meaning that team must win by at least 4 points to cover the spread.

Examples

• The bookmaker set the point spread at -3.5 for the home team.
• If the away team wins by 3 points, the -3.5 point spread would result in a loss for those who bet on the home team.

Synonyms

• Point differential
• Betting line

Antonyms

• +3.5 point spread (favoring the underdog)

Additional Information

In point spread betting, the goal is to predict the margin of victory rather than simply picking a winner. The -3.5 point spread is a common margin used in sports betting, particularly in football and basketball. It’s essential to understand the point spread and its implications to make informed betting decisions.

Point spreads can vary depending on the sport, league, and matchup, with some sportsbooks offering alternative lines or props. In addition, weather conditions, injuries, and other factors can influence the point spread, making it crucial to stay informed and adapt to changing circumstances.

Etymology

The term “point spread” originated in the United States in the mid-20th century, derived from the concept of handicapping, where a perceived advantage is given to one team to even out the betting odds.

Usage Notes

When discussing point spreads, it’s essential to specify the favored team and the margin of victory, as this can affect the betting strategy and odds.

Cultural References

The point spread has been featured in various films and TV shows, such as “The Simpsons” and “Entourage,” often depicting it as a key aspect of sports betting.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

• “Cover the spread”
• “Beat the spread”

Related Words or Phrases

• Odds
• Moneyline
• Over/under

Collocations

• Point spread betting
• Favored by 3.5 points

Frequency of Use

The term “point spread” is commonly used in sports betting, particularly during major sporting events like the Super Bowl and March Madness.

Common Misspellings

• -3.5 point spreed
• -3.5 point spreadd