The point spread is a number that is set by the bookie, handicapper or oddsmaker which is considered the line. This determines how much the favorite team must win by in order for a bet placed for the favorite to win.
The point spread or line can change over time and from bookie to bookie.
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Game September 13
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Spread
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Money Line
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Total Points
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Miami Dolphins
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+ 4.5 – 110
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+ 170
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44.5
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Atlanta Falcons
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- 4.5 – 110
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- 210
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44.5
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In this game between the Miami Dolphins and the Atlanta Falcons there is a 4.5 point spread. In the spread column you see a +4.5 (spread) and a -110 (payout) for the Dolphins. This means that the Dolphins are the underdog.
To determine the outcome of the game for the wager you would take the Dolphins score and add 4.5 points to it and that will determine the final score for the game.
If the game ends with the Falcons 28 and the Dolphins 24 and you bet on the Dolphins you would take the Dolphins score and add the 4.5 to it making the betting score Falcons 28 and Dolphins 28.5, winning you the bet.
The Atlanta Falcons are the favorite to win. If you were to bet on the Falcons, they would have to win by at least 4.5 points for you to win the bet. Using the same scenario Falcons 28 and Dolphins 24 if you bet on the Falcons you would subtact 4.5 points from the falcons with a betting score of Falcons 23.5 and the Dolphins 24, losing the bet.
A winning bet for either team would payout $100 for every $110 wagered.