What Does Betting "Against the Spread" Mean?

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Written By Sabrina Wang

A Complete Guide to ATS with Live Betting Examples

Introduction to Betting Against the Spread (ATS)

In sports betting, the term "against the spread" (ATS) refers to a wager where bettors predict whether a team will cover the point spread set by the sportsbook. Unlike moneyline bets, which focus on who will win the game, ATS betting takes into account the margin of victory or defeat. This format levels the playing field, making games between mismatched teams more competitive from a betting perspective.

Understanding the Point Spread

The point spread is a number set by oddsmakers to handicap a matchup. It reflects the expected margin of victory for the favored team. Here's how it works:

  • Favorite: Must win by more than the spread to cover.

  • Underdog: Can either win outright or lose by fewer points than the spread to cover.

Example:

Consider an NFL game between the Kansas City Chiefs (-7) and the Chicago Bears (+7). The spread is 7 points:

  • If you bet on the Chiefs (-7), they need to win by 8 or more points to cover the spread.

  • If you bet on the Bears (+7), they can lose by up to 6 points or win the game outright for you to win the bet.

  • If the Chiefs win by exactly 7 points, the bet is a push, and your stake is refunded.

Why Bet Against the Spread?

  • Leveling the Odds: Betting ATS makes games between unevenly matched teams more engaging and fair.

  • Enhanced Payouts: ATS bets typically offer -110 odds, meaning you risk $110 to win $100.

  • Strategic Depth: Analyzing factors like injuries, weather, and team performance can give you an edge.

Live Betting with the Spread

Live betting introduces a dynamic element to ATS wagers. As the game progresses, sportsbooks adjust the point spread based on real-time events. This creates opportunities for bettors to capitalize on shifting lines.

Live Betting Example:

  • Pre-game Spread: Chiefs -7 vs. Bears +7.

  • First Quarter: Chiefs lead 10-0. The live spread might adjust to Chiefs -14.

  • If you believe the Bears will mount a comeback or keep the game close, you could bet on the Bears +14 live spread.

Advantages of Live ATS Betting:

  1. Real-Time Insights: Watch the game unfold and assess team momentum.

  2. React to Injuries: If a key player is injured, the live line may not immediately reflect the impact.

  3. Hedge Bets: Use live spreads to protect pre-game bets.

Tip: Line Shopping for Live Betting

One important strategy for live betting is line shopping—comparing spreads and odds across multiple sportsbooks (such as Pinnacle) to find the best value. This is particularly important during live games, as sportsbooks may update their lines at different speeds, have market inefficiencies, or use different algorithms.

Example:

  • Sportsbook A might offer the Bears at +14 after the first quarter, while Sportsbook B offers them at +15.5.

  • Betting on +15.5 gives you a larger cushion, potentially turning a narrow loss into a push or even a win.

Pro Tip: Keep multiple sportsbook accounts open during live games. This allows you to quickly compare lines and secure the most favorable odds, maximizing your chances of success.

Tips for Betting Against the Spread

1. Understand Line Movements: The spread can change due to public betting trends or key injuries. Monitoring these changes can reveal valuable insights.

2. Analyze Team Performance: Look at ATS records for both teams. Some teams consistently cover spreads, while others underperform relative to expectations.

3. Consider Home-Field Advantage: Home teams often get a 3-point boost in the spread. Evaluate if this advantage is justified based on recent form.

4. Beware of "Trap Games”: Sometimes, sportsbooks set lines that seem too good to be true. These “trap games” often lure bettors into taking a side that looks obvious but has hidden risks.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Betting Based on Team Reputation: Don’t rely solely on a team’s popularity. Focus on statistical analysis and matchups.

  • Ignoring Injuries: Even minor injuries can affect a team's ability to cover the spread.

  • Overvaluing Favorites: Heavy favorites often attract public money, inflating the spread. This creates value opportunities on underdogs.

Final Thoughts

Betting against the spread adds complexity and excitement to sports wagering, leveling the playing field between mismatched teams. Whether you're placing pre-game or live bets, understanding how spreads work and analyzing key factors can enhance your chances of success.

While ATS betting offers strategic depth, remember that discipline and careful analysis are crucial—especially when navigating the ever-changing landscape of live betting. By mastering these principles and utilizing strategies like line shopping, you can make more informed decisions and maximize your betting experience.

Sabrina Wang
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How Can Pinnacle’s Low Margins Benefit Bettors?