Line betting (also known as the "point spread") is a sports betting market where bookmakers apply a points handicap to even the odds between two unevenly matched teams.
The favourite is given a virtual points deficit (e.g., -5.5), which they must overcome to win the bet, while the underdog is given a virtual points head start (e.g., +5.5).
This allows punters to back either team at roughly even money (usually around $1.90), regardless of how lopsided the Head-to-Head (H2H) match might be.
What Does Line Mean In Betting?
Line betting is when a handicap (point spread) is applied to a bet between two teams to even the odds.
For example, if the bookmakers determine the point spread to be 5, the favourite must win by more than the spread (6+), while the underdog only needs to lose less (<5) than the spread or win outright to ‘win’.
Key Questions Answered in This Line Betting Guide:
What does "The Line" mean in betting?
The line is the specific number of points the bookmaker determines the favourite should win by. It acts as a handicap. If you bet the favourite on the line, they must win by more than the line. If you bet the underdog, they must win the game outright OR lose by less than the line.
Is Line Betting the same as Spread Betting?
Yes. In Australia, we typically call it "Line Betting," but it is identical to what American sports (like the NBA and NFL) refer to as "Spread Betting" or "The Point Spread."
How do you calculate a winning Line Bet?
Simply add or subtract the line margin from your chosen team’s final score. If their newly adjusted score is higher than their opponent's final score, your line bet is a winner. (Example: If you back an underdog at +6.5, and they lose the actual match by 5 points, you win the bet because their adjusted score puts them ahead).
Why do line betting odds change before a game?
Just like H2H odds, the point line can fluctuate leading up to the game. Factors like star player injuries, weather conditions, or heavy betting volume on one side can cause the bookmaker to shift the line (e.g., moving from -5.5 to -7.5) to balance the market.
What sports are best for Line Betting?
Line betting is incredibly popular in high-scoring sports where mismatches frequently occur. It is highly utilized in the AFL, NRL, NBA, and NFL to provide punters with competitive odds when the H2H market offers no value.
How To Pick A Team To Line Bet On
Every punter has their own way they go about tipping, whether you’ve been studying up on every form guide leading into a match or it’s purely on gut feeling, there’s no set way to pick a team to line bet on.
That said, if you are looking for expert tips and predictions we are dropping these frequently on the Huddle. Check out expert tips for NRL, AFL, Horse Racing, NBA, & More!