Beginner
Point Spread Betting
A point spread bet handicaps the favorite with a points deduction and the underdog with a points addition, evening out the wager and typically paying close to even money (-110).
Example — NFL
Patriots -7.5 vs. Jets +7.5
The Patriots must win by 8 or more points for a Patriots -7.5 bet to win. The Jets can lose by 7 or fewer (or win outright) for a Jets +7.5 bet to win.
How It Works at MA Sportsbooks
Point spreads are the dominant betting market for football and basketball at Massachusetts sportsbooks. Spreads typically post at -110 / -110 odds (10% juice) and update through the week as money comes in. Most MA operators also offer alternate spreads at adjusted prices, allowing bettors to buy or sell points around the consensus line.
Pros
- Equal-payout structure on most games
- Action stays interesting in blowouts
- Most-bet market in NFL and NBA
Cons
- Exact half-point hooks can swing outcomes
- Pushes possible on whole-number spreads
Pro Tips
- Half-point hooks (e.g. -7.5 vs. -7) are critical — shop for the best number
- Late-week line moves often signal sharp money or injury news
- Teaser bets shift spreads in your favor across multiple games