What Does Cover Mean in Betting

If you’ve spent any time exploring the world of sports betting, you’ve probably noticed there’s a whole new language to learn. One term you’re bound to come across is “cover.” 

It’s one of those words that might sound confusing at first but becomes second nature once you know the basics. Understanding what it means and why it’s important can make a big difference in how you approach your bets. 

Let’s break it down and take a closer look at what “cover” is all about.

What Does Cover Mean in Betting: A Basic Understanding

In point spread betting, “covering” means a team performs better than the odds predict. The favorite covers by winning by more than the spread. Meanwhile, the underdog covers by either winning outright or losing by less than the spread. For example, if a team leads by 7 points, they must win by 8 or more to cover the spread.

Sportsbooks use point spreads to balance betting action, making both sides of a game equally enticing regardless of team strength. Understanding this concept is essential for bettors as it forms the foundation of spread betting in sports like football and basketball.

Even the most successful sports gamblers win only 50-60% of the time, highlighting the inherent unpredictability that makes betting thrilling. Each sport has unique rules and nuances that influence betting strategies.

How Point Spreads Work in Betting

Point spreads level the playing field by accounting for differences in team skill. Favorites receive a negative spread, like -7.5, while underdogs get a positive spread, such as +7.5.

Betting on the favorite requires them to win by more than the spread. In contrast, underdog bets win if the team loses by less than the spread or wins outright. This system not only balances betting lines but also adds excitement to the game.

Spreads can shift due to factors like betting patterns, injuries, or other developments. In the NFL, numbers like 3 and 7 are especially significant, reflecting common victory margins from field goals and touchdowns. Understanding these key numbers is crucial for interpreting betting lines and making informed wagers.

Achieving a 50% win rate in sports betting often isn’t enough for profitability. The typical “juice” on a point spread is -110, meaning bettors need to win more than half their bets to cover the cost of placing them. Many professional gamblers strategically focus on underdogs to maximize their odds of success.

How To Calculate if a Team Covers the Spread

Point spread calculation adds or subtracts the spread from the final score. For favorites, subtract the spread from their score. If they’re ahead, they’ve covered.

For underdogs, add the spread to their score. If they’re ahead after this, they’ve covered as well.

Let’s look at some examples. Suppose the Patriots have a 7-point advantage over the Jets. If the Patriots win 28-20, they’ve covered because 28 – 7 = 21, which is more than 20.

If the Jets lose 24-20, they’ve also covered because 20 + 7 = 27, which is more than 24.

Understanding these calculations is crucial for spread betting success. In the NFL, spreads usually are 3, 7, and 10 points, reflecting common victory margins.

Remember, while spread bets might seem 50/50, you need to win more than 52.4% of your bets at -110 odds to profit. This emphasizes the importance of mastering point spread calculations and staying informed about team performance and injuries.

The Difference Between Covering and Winning

In sports betting, it’s important to know the difference between winning and covering the spread. A team can win but not cover the spread, or lose and still cover. This difference greatly affects betting results.

The spread helps make games fair between teams of different strengths. It makes every game a 50/50 chance.

When betting against the spread, favorites need to win by more points than the spread. Underdogs must not lose by more points than the spread. 

For example, a team favored by 7 points must win by at least 8 to cover. If they win by exactly 7, it’s a push, with no win or loss for bettors.

Point Spread Variations Across Sports

Sports betting has many point spread options for different games. Football spreads have gained widespread recognition, with numbers like 3, 7, and 10 playing key roles. Basketball spreads are also common, with small point differences playing a big role.

In the NBA, point differences of 5-8 are a bit more common. This makes these spreads very interesting.

Bookmakers set baseball run lines and hockey puck lines at 1.5. They add excitement to games with lower scores. For example, baseball offers a unique betting experience compared to traditional point spreads.

It’s important for bettors to understand these variations. Football and basketball use half-points to avoid pushes, while baseball and hockey adjust odds more often. Knowing this helps bettors make better choices across sports, improving their betting strategy.

Understanding Betting Odds and Payouts

Betting odds come in different formats. Each shows potential payouts and implied probabilities. In the US, moneyline odds use plus and minus signs. A minus sign means the favorite, showing how much to bet to win $100.

A plus sign marks the underdog, showing potential winnings on a $100 bet.

Decimal odds, which are popular in Europe and Canada, display total payouts, including the stake. For example, odds of 4.00 mean a $400 payout on a $100 bet. Fractional odds, used in the UK, show profit ratios. Odds of 6/1 promise $6 profit for every $1 wagered.

Calculating betting payouts depends on the odds format. With -110 odds, a $110 bet wins $100. For +200 odds, a $100 bet wins $200. Understanding these odds helps bettors gauge potential returns and make informed decisions.

Remember, implied probability is key for finding value bets that might beat the bookmakers’ assessments.

Sports betting regulations vary by state in the US, with 38 states plus Washington, D.C., legalizing it as of 2024. To navigate the betting landscape effectively, bettors should familiarize themselves with local laws and odds formats.

Advanced Spread Betting Strategies

Savvy bettors employ advanced strategies to gain an edge in spread betting. One essential tactic is line shopping, which involves comparing odds across different sportsbooks to secure the best value. Even a half-point difference can determine the outcome of a bet.

Another strategy is buying points, where bettors pay extra to adjust the spread in their favor. This can transform a potential loss into a win or vice versa. This is particularly true around key numbers in football, such as 3 or 7, which are common victory margins.

More complex methods include hedging bets and middling. Hedging involves placing opposing bets to either minimize potential losses or lock in profits. Meanwhile, middling takes advantage of line movements by betting on both sides at different spreads. When executed correctly, middling can yield double wins, but it requires precise timing and a strong understanding of market shifts.

While advanced strategies can increase your chances of success, they are not foolproof. Discipline and bankroll management are crucial. Professionals often recommend wagering only 1-3% of your bankroll per game to mitigate losses. This also provides room to refine your approach over time.

Common Mistakes When Betting the Spread

Mistakes in spread betting can lead to significant losses. Here are the most common errors and how to avoid them:

• Overvaluing Favorites: Many bettors assume favorites will always win, leading to poor betting decisions. This often overlooks underdogs, which can be more profitable when the spread provides good value.
• Ignoring Key Numbers: In football, key numbers like 3, 7, and 10 represent common scoring margins. Overlooking these crucial figures can result in missed opportunities or unfavorable bets.
• Chasing Losses: Increasing stakes after a losing streak to recover losses is a dangerous habit. This emotional approach can escalate losses and deplete your bankroll. Stick to a disciplined betting plan to avoid this pitfall.
• Using a One-Size-Fits-All Strategy: Each sport has unique factors that affect spread betting, such as the impact of home-field advantage or scoring patterns. Failing to adjust your strategy for different sports can hinder your success.
• Not Line Shopping: Different sportsbooks offer varying spreads and odds. Neglecting to shop for the best lines can eat into your profits over time. Comparing options ensures you maximize value on every bet.

Successful spread betting requires discipline, research, and adaptability. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can protect your bankroll and improve your long-term results.

Shopping for the Best Spreads and Odds

Smart bettors know the importance of line shopping in sports betting. This means comparing odds and spreads across different sportsbooks. With 38 states and Washington, D.C., now allowing legal sports betting, there are many options to explore.

Comparing sportsbooks is key to making more money. For example, in football betting, a half-point difference can be big. A spread of 7 versus 7.5 could mean the difference between a push and a win. That’s why smart bettors keep accounts at multiple sportsbooks to get the best odds.

Watching odds movement is also important. Sportsbooks adjust their lines for many reasons, like injuries or weather. Keeping up with these changes can help you find great betting opportunities. For more on betting types, check out this guide on moneyline vs spread betting.

Success in line shopping isn’t just about finding the best spread. It’s about looking at the overall value, including odds and promotions. By always looking for the best terms, you can make more money in sports betting over time.

Level Up Your Betting Game: Master the Art of Covering the Spread

Mastering the concept of “cover” unlocks a new level of confidence and strategy in sports betting. It’s not just about picking winners; it’s about understanding how the game within the game works. 

By grasping point spreads and honing your calculations, you can improve your betting skills. Applying smart strategies like line shopping and bankroll management will help turn betting into a thrilling and rewarding experience.

So, ready to put your knowledge to the test? Dive deeper into our expert betting guides at All The Picks and take the first step toward becoming a sharper, more strategic bettor. The game is on — make sure you’re ahead of the spread!