The point spread is the perceived difference between two teams in a given game. In the example below, the Philadelphia Eagles are -8.5 and the Washington Redskins are +8.5. This line suggests that the Eagles are 8.5 points better than the Washington Redskins in this game. If you were to bet on the Philadelphia Eagles on the point spread, the Eagles would need to win the game by 9 or more points in order for you to win the bet. If you bet the Redskins +8.5, the Redskins could win the game outright or lose by less than 9 points and you would still win the bet.
When betting spreads, the traditional vig is -110. If you were to bet the Eagles -8.5 (-110), you would need to bet $1.10 to win $1.00. Sometimes, sportsbooks will add additional vigorish to a point spread bet before moving the number. Point spreads and their vigorish can vary between sportsbooks. As always, it is recommended that you have multiple books and shop the line to see who gives you the best value while paying close attention to the key numbers.
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