If you’ve ever placed a bet on an NFL game or even just glanced at the betting lines, you might have come across terms like +3 or -3. These numbers are crucial to understanding point spread betting, which is one of the most popular ways to wager on football games.
But what exactly does +3 mean in the NFL? Let’s dive in and explain this concept in detail, so you can make more informed betting decisions.
Understanding Point Spreads
What is a Point Spread?
A point spread is a type of bet that aims to level the playing field between two teams. It does this by assigning a “spread” of points that one team must win by or stay within. This type of betting is designed to make betting on either team equally attractive.
How Point Spreads Work
When you see a point spread, you’ll notice one team has a negative number (like -3) and the other has a positive number (like +3). The team with the negative number is the favorite, meaning they are expected to win the game. The team with the positive number is the underdog, expected to either win the game outright or lose by less than the spread.
What Does +3 Mean?
The Underdog Advantage
If a team is listed as +3, it means they are the underdog and are being given a 3-point advantage. This doesn’t mean they are actually given points in the game; rather, it means they can lose by up to 3 points, and you still win your bet.
Betting on +3
When you bet on a team with a +3 spread, there are three possible outcomes for your bet:
- If the team wins the game outright, you win the bet.
- If the team loses by exactly 3 points, the bet is a push, and you get your money back.
- If the team loses by less than 3 points, you also win the bet.
Example
Let’s say the New York Giants are playing the Dallas Cowboys, and the Giants are +3 underdogs. If you bet on the Giants, you win the bet if:
- The Giants win the game.
- The Giants lose by 1 or 2 points.
- If the Giants lose by exactly 3 points, it’s a push, and you get your stake back.
Why Point Spreads Matter
Balancing the Betting Field
Point spreads are designed to make betting on either team appealing, regardless of their actual strength. This balance helps sportsbooks manage their risk and ensures there’s betting action on both sides.
Enhancing Betting Strategy
Understanding point spreads allows bettors to make more strategic decisions. Instead of just picking who they think will win, bettors can analyze whether a team will outperform expectations based on the spread.
Impact on Odds
Point spreads also impact the odds and payouts. Betting on the favorite to cover the spread might offer lower odds than betting on the underdog, but it also requires the favorite to win by more than the spread.
Common Scenarios Involving +3
Push Scenarios
A push occurs when the final margin of victory is exactly the same as the point spread. In the case of a +3 spread, if the underdog loses by exactly 3 points, the bet is a push, and your original wager is returned.
Close Games
Close games often make point spread betting exciting. If a game is expected to be tight, a +3 spread can mean the difference between a winning and losing bet, even if the underdog doesn’t win the game outright.
Late-Game Dynamics
Late-game strategies, such as field goals and touchdowns in the final minutes, can significantly affect the outcome relative to the spread. Understanding how teams perform in these situations can be critical for bettors.
Tips for Betting on Point Spreads
Research Teams and Matchups
Do your homework on the teams, their recent performance, injury reports, and head-to-head matchups. This information can give you insights into whether the point spread offers value.
Monitor Line Movements
Line movements can indicate where the money is going. If a spread moves from +3 to +2.5, it might suggest that a lot of money is coming in on the underdog. Tracking these movements can help you make more informed bets.
Consider Home Field Advantage
Home field advantage can impact point spreads. Teams playing at home often perform better, and this is usually factored into the spread. However, the extent of this advantage can vary.
Manage Your Bankroll
Always practice good bankroll management. Bet only what you can afford to lose and avoid chasing losses. Spreads can be tempting, but disciplined betting is key to long-term success.
Understanding what +3 means in NFL betting is fundamental to mastering point spread bets. It signifies that the team is an underdog with a 3-point cushion, allowing them to lose by up to 3 points and still not cost you your bet. By leveraging this knowledge, you can make more strategic bets and improve your chances of winning. Remember to research teams, monitor line movements, and manage your bankroll wisely for the best betting experience.
FAQs
What does +3 mean in NFL betting?
In NFL betting, +3 means the team is the underdog and is given a 3-point advantage. They can lose by up to 3 points, and you will still win your bet or push.
How do point spreads work?
Point spreads assign a “spread” of points that a team must win by or stay within. The favorite has a negative spread, and the underdog has a positive spread.
What happens if the final score matches the spread?
If the final score matches the spread exactly, the bet is a push, and the original wager is returned.
Why are point spreads used in betting?
Point spreads are used to level the playing field between two teams, making betting on either team equally attractive and balancing the action for sportsbooks.
How can I find value in point spreads?
To find value in point spreads, research teams, monitor line movements, consider home field advantage, and practice good bankroll management.
Is betting on point spreads risky?
Like all forms of betting, point spread betting carries risks. However, understanding how spreads work and using strategic analysis can help mitigate these risks and improve your betting outcomes.
