What Does a Spread of -7 Mean? A Beginner’s Guide
If you’re new to sports betting, one of the most common terms you’ll encounter is “spread.” Specifically, you may wonder, what does a spread of -7 mean? This concept is essential for understanding how bookmakers create a balanced playing field for bettors when one team is clearly stronger than the other. In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about a spread of -7, how it works, why it’s important, and how to bet smartly.
Basics of Point Spreads
Before diving into the specifics of what does a spread of -7 mean, it’s helpful to understand the basics of point spreads. A point spread is a number set by oddsmakers to give an advantage or disadvantage to a team in terms of points. It’s designed to even out the betting field when one team is heavily favored over the other.
When you see a spread of -7, it means the favored team must win by more than 7 points for a bet on them to win. Conversely, the underdog team, which would have a spread of +7, needs to either lose by fewer than 7 points or win the game outright for a bet on them to succeed.
What Does a Spread of -7 Mean in Sports Betting?
Now, let’s focus on what does a spread of -7 mean. When a team is assigned a -7 spread, it indicates that they are the favorites and are expected to win by at least 7 points. The underdog team will be assigned a spread of +7, meaning they are given a 7-point advantage before the game begins.
For example, imagine Team A is playing Team B. If Team A has a spread of -7, and Team B is at +7, here’s how the outcomes affect your bet:
- If Team A wins by more than 7 points (e.g., 28-20), a bet on Team A covers the spread and wins.
- If Team A wins by exactly 7 points (e.g., 28-21), the bet is a push, meaning no one wins or loses, and your stake is refunded.
- If Team A wins by fewer than 7 points (e.g., 28-24), or if Team B wins outright, a bet on Team B covers the spread and wins.
This approach levels the playing field, making bets on either team equally attractive, even when there’s a significant skill difference between them.
How Oddsmakers Decide the Spread?
Understanding what does a spread of -7 mean requires some insight into how oddsmakers calculate spreads. Several factors influence the point spread:
- Team Strengths:
Oddsmakers analyze the performance history, player stats, and injuries to assess which team is stronger.
- Home-Field Advantage:
Teams playing at home often perform better, which can affect the spread.
- Public Perception:
Oddsmakers consider how the public perceives each team, which can influence betting behavior.
- Match-Up Dynamics:
Factors like player matchups and coaching strategies are also considered.
When oddsmakers set a spread of -7, they are essentially predicting that the favored team has a 7-point edge over the underdog.
Why Is the Spread Important?
Point spreads, including what does a spread of -7 mean, are critical because they make betting more competitive. Without spreads, most bets would simply favor the stronger team, leaving little incentive to wager on the underdog. The spread ensures that both teams have nearly equal chances of attracting bets.
Spreads also allow for more nuanced wagers. Instead of simply betting on which team will win, you’re betting on how much they’ll win by. This adds an extra layer of strategy, as bettors need to consider not just the outcome but the margin of victory.
Example: Understanding a Spread of -7 in Action
To further clarify what does a spread of -7 mean, let’s look at a practical example:
| Scenario | Team A (Spread -7) Outcome | Team B (Spread +7) Outcome |
| Team A wins by 10 | Bet on Team A wins | Bet on Team B loses |
| Team A wins by 7 | Push (refund) | Push (refund) |
| Team A wins by 4 | Bet on Team A loses | Bet on Team B wins |
| Team B wins outright | Bet on Team A loses | Bet on Team B wins |
In this example, the spread is the deciding factor for whether your bet wins, loses, or results in a push.
How to Bet on a Spread of -7?
When betting on a spread of -7, it’s essential to evaluate both teams thoroughly. Start by researching team performance, recent injuries, and how well they’ve covered spreads in the past. You’ll also want to consider weather conditions, which can impact scoring.
If you think the favorite team can easily win by more than 7 points, betting on the -7 spread makes sense. On the other hand, if you believe the game will be close or the underdog has a strong chance of outperforming expectations, a bet on the +7 spread might be smarter.
Key Terms to Know
To better understand what does a spread of -7 mean, it helps to know some related betting terms:
- Covering the Spread:
When a team wins by enough points to meet or exceed the spread.
- Push:
When the point difference matches the spread exactly, resulting in a refund.
- Juice/Vig:
The commission charged by the sportsbook for taking bets.
- Underdog:
The team expected to lose, indicated by a “+” spread.
- Favorite:
The team expected to win, indicated by a “-” spread.
Advantages and Risks of Betting on Spreads
Betting on point spreads, including spreads of -7, has several advantages. It provides more balanced betting opportunities and increases the strategic depth of wagers. However, it also comes with risks. A late-game touchdown or unforeseen injury can dramatically alter the outcome, leaving your bet in jeopardy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a spread of -7 mean in football?
A spread of -7 in football means the favored team must win by more than 7 points to cover the spread. If they win by exactly 7, the bet is a push.
Can a spread of -7 result in a tie?
Yes, if the favorite wins by exactly 7 points, the bet is a tie (push), and your original wager is refunded.
Why do sportsbooks use spreads?
Spreads create balanced betting by making the matchup more competitive, even when one team is heavily favored.
What happens if I bet on the underdog with a +7 spread?
Your bet on the underdog wins if they lose by fewer than 7 points or win outright. A 7-point loss results in a push.
Conclusion
In the world of sports betting, understanding what does a spread of -7 mean is crucial for making informed wagers. A spread of -7 indicates the favored team is expected to win by 7 points, creating a more balanced and competitive betting environment. By analyzing team dynamics, recent performances, and game-day conditions, you can make smarter bets that align with your expectations. Whether you’re betting on the favorite or the underdog, point spreads add excitement and strategy to the betting experience. Always remember to bet responsibly and consider the risks involved.
Also, Read Mary Beth Powers – Cmmb Net Worth 2023
