Frequently Asked Questions: What Do The – And + Mean In Sports Betting
1. What do the – and + mean in sports betting?
The – and + signs in sports betting represent the point spread or odds for a specific bet. A minus sign (-) indicates the favorite team, while a plus sign (+) indicates the underdog.
2. How do I interpret a -7 spread?
If you see a spread of -7 for a team, it means that this team is favored to win by 7 points. To win a bet on this team, they must win by more than 7 points.
3. What does it mean if a team has +5 odds?
If a team has +5 odds, it indicates that they are an underdog in the match. If you bet on them and they win, you would win $5 for every $100 wagered.
4. Why do sportsbooks use – and + in betting lines?
The – and + signs help indicate the relative strength of teams or players in a matchup, guiding bettors in understanding which side is favored and which is an underdog. This is crucial when considering how to place your bets.
5. Can I win if I bet on a team with a – sign?
Yes, you can win if you bet on a team with a – sign, but the team must cover the spread. For example, if a team is -10, they need to win by more than 10 points for your bet to be successful.
6. What happens to my bet if I back a +3 underdog?
If you bet on a +3 underdog, your team can either win the game outright or lose by less than 3 points for you to win your bet. This gives underdogs a better chance of covering the spread.
7. Are – and + the only signs I need to know in sports betting?
While the – and + signs are essential for understanding point spreads and odds, there are other factors such as moneylines and totals that you should also familiarize yourself with to become a well-rounded bettor.
8. What does it mean if a game has both – and + signs on the same team?
This situation could occur in different betting markets, where one position might have a different line or odds depending on the type of bet being placed, like point spreads versus moneyline bets.
9. How does the – and + affect my potential winnings?
The – and + signs directly influence your potential winnings based on the odds. Betting on a + underdog typically yields higher returns compared to betting on a – favorite, as favorites are expected to win.
10. Where can I find more information about what do the – and + mean in sports betting?
You can find more information on sportsbooks' websites, betting guides, and resources dedicated to educating beginners on sports betting, which often discuss what do the – and + mean in sports betting.