{"id":28,"date":"2023-08-22T08:32:40","date_gmt":"2023-08-22T08:32:40","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.lopezfarmersmarket.com\/?p=28"},"modified":"2023-08-22T08:32:58","modified_gmt":"2023-08-22T08:32:58","slug":"negative-lines-work-in-betting","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.lopezfarmersmarket.com\/negative-lines-work-in-betting\/","title":{"rendered":"Explanation on How Negative Lines Work in Betting Markets"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

In sports betting, the spread is a key component that handicaps teams and impacts wagering outcomes. Spreads can be positive or negative depending on the teams involved. But what exactly does a negative spread mean for bettors? This article will break down the mechanics of negative spreads, when they are used, and strategies around betting on reverse spreads.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What is a Spread in Betting? <\/h2>\n\n\n\n

A spread in betting refers to a handicap applied to favourite teams to level the playing field versus underdogs. Favourites must win by over the spread amount, while underdogs can lose by less than the spread and still cover bets. For example, New England -7 means the Patriots must win by over 7 points against the spread. Spread bet wins and losses are determined after the spread factor is applied to the final score.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Spreads exist because bettors like wagering on both favourites and underdogs to create two-sided markets. If spreads did not exist, heavy favourite money would dominate bets. Spreads create an advantage margin that makes betting on underdogs worthwhile.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When Does a Negative Spread Occur? <\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Most betting spreads have positive values like +7.5 for underdogs and -7.5 for favourites. But occasionally spreads go negative, like -1.5 for a favourite. This happens when both teams are closely matched, with no clear underdog. The negative spread indicates which team is considered slightly better by oddsmakers at the time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Negative spreads most often occur in evenly matched contests like NFL divisional rivalries or late season college basketball. With power rankings close, a narrow negative spread is applied to the team with a modest edge. Finals and championships can also elicit negative spreads when both sides are talented.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Strategies for Betting Negative Spreads <\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Betting against negative spreads requires nuanced approaches compared to positive spread wagers. Here are some strategies to consider:<\/p>\n\n\n\n