Spread Betting Guide – How Point Spreads Work in Colorado

Spread betting—also known as betting the point spread—is the most popular way to wager on NFL, NBA, and college sports in Colorado. The point spread evens the playing field by giving underdogs extra points and requiring favorites to win by a certain margin. Since Colorado sports betting is fully legal and regulated by the Colorado Division of Gaming, fans can bet spreads safely and confidently.

What Does Spread Mean in Betting?

When people ask “what does spread mean in betting?” they’re referring to the point spread—the predicted margin of victory set by oddsmakers. In simple terms, what is spread betting? It’s a way to level the playing field between two teams by assigning points to the favorite and underdog.

• Favorites (-) must win by more than the spread to “cover.”
• Underdogs (+) can lose by fewer points than the spread or win the game outright and still cover.

For example, if the Denver Broncos are -3.5 vs. the Raiders, the Broncos must win by 4 or more points for a spread bet on them to cash.

The Plus (+) and Minus (-) Signs Explained

In spread betting, the plus and minus signs tell you which team is favored and which is the underdog:

• Minus sign (-) → The favorite, expected to win the game.
• Plus sign (+) → The underdog, expected to lose but given extra points on the spread.

These symbols determine how many points are added to or subtracted from a team’s final score when grading a bet.

Team	Spread	Odds	What It Means
Kansas City Chiefs	-6.5	-110	Must win by 7+ points to cover
Denver Broncos	+6.5	-110	Can lose by 6 or fewer, or win the game outright

How Does Spread Betting Work?

If you’re new to sports wagering, understanding how spread betting works is essential. In simple terms, the point spread is used to create a balanced betting market by adjusting each team’s starting position.

Oddsmakers set a predicted margin of victory, and your job is to decide whether the favorite will win by more than that number or if the underdog will perform better than expected.

When people search “how does point spread work?” or “spread betting explained,” this is the foundation: the spread doesn’t predict who will win—it predicts how much they will win or lose by.

Step-by-Step Spread Betting Process

Spread betting may seem complicated at first, but the process is straightforward once you understand the flow. Here’s how it works from start to finish:

This simple flow is the backbone of how spread betting works across NFL, NBA, and college sports.

Understanding “Covering the Spread”

“Covering the spread” means your pick performs better than the point spread projected.

• Favorite covers: Wins by more than the spread number.
• Underdog covers: Loses by less than the spread or wins the game outright.

You may also encounter a push, which happens when the result lands exactly on the spread (for example, a -3 game ending with a 3-point margin). In a push, the sportsbook returns your wager with no win or loss.

Sports bettors often track ATS (Against The Spread) records to see how frequently a team covers as a favorite or underdog—helpful data when evaluating future bets.

The Juice/Vigorish (-110 Explained)

Most spread bets come with -110 odds, meaning you must wager $110 to win $100 (or $11 to win $10). This extra amount is known as the juice or vigorish, and it’s how sportsbooks earn revenue regardless of which side wins.

Juice isn’t always -110. Depending on betting action, you may see spreads priced at -105, -115, -120, or beyond. Higher juice means you pay more to place the same bet.

Always shop lines across multiple legal sportsbooks. Even a half-point difference or a shift from -115 to -110 can significantly improve your long-term profitability.

Point Spread Betting Examples

Understanding point spreads becomes much easier once you see them in action, especially when a spread betting guide breaks them down with real examples.

Below are real-world style scenarios using Colorado’s most popular teams—the Denver Broncos, Denver Nuggets, Colorado Avalanche, and Colorado Buffaloes—to show how spread bets are graded.

NFL Spread Betting Example (Denver Broncos)

Scenario: Broncos +3.5 (-110) vs. Chiefs

The Broncos are the underdog, meaning they get +3.5 points added to their final score.

Final Score: Chiefs 24, Broncos 21. Broncos COVER because losing by 3 is better than the +3.5 spread.

If you bet $110 on Denver +3.5, you would win $100, receiving a total payout of $210.

Alternate scenario: Chiefs 28, Broncos 21

Broncos do NOT cover, because they lost by 7, more than the +3.5 spread.

NBA Spread Betting Example (Denver Nuggets)

Scenario: Nuggets -5.5 (-110) vs. Lakers

The Nuggets are the favorite, needing to win by at least 6 points.

Final Score: Nuggets 118, Lakers 110. Nuggets COVER, winning by 8 points—more than the 5.5 spread.

Alternate scenario: Nuggets 115, Lakers 112

Nuggets do NOT cover, because a 3-point win falls short of the needed 5.5.

College Football Example (Colorado Buffaloes)

Colorado is one of the few states where bettors can legally wager on in-state college teams, including full-game point spreads.

This means fans can bet on the Colorado Buffaloes, Colorado State Rams, and Air Force Falcons without restrictions—though player props on college athletes may be limited.

For example, if the Buffaloes were listed at +14.5, they would need to lose by fewer than 15 points (or win outright) to cover the spread.

College games often feature wider point spreads due to larger talent gaps, making line reading even more important.

Key Numbers in Spread Betting

Key numbers are some of the most important concepts in spread betting—especially for NFL wagers.

These numbers represent the most common margins of victory and help bettors understand what does spread mean in betting and why certain spreads (like -3 or +7) appear so frequently.

Knowing key numbers can also guide smarter decisions when line shopping or buying points.

NFL Key Numbers (3, 7, 10)

NFL scoring happens in predictable increments (field goals and touchdowns), which makes certain margins more common than others. The three most important key numbers are:

• 3 points: The most common NFL margin of victory—around 15% of all games end with a field-goal difference. This is why spreads like +3 or -3 appear constantly.
• 7 points: The second-most common margin (roughly 9% of games) because a touchdown plus extra point is the most fundamental scoring play in football.
• 10 points: Another key number representing a touchdown + field goal. Double-digit spreads often cluster around this margin.

Why -3 and -3.5 matter (“the hook”)

A spread of -3 creates the possibility of a push if the favorite wins by exactly three. But -3.5 adds what’s called the hook—the half-point that removes the chance of a push.

This tiny difference dramatically affects win probability and is why bettors often prefer -2.5 or +3.5 when available. Understanding key numbers is one of the best ways to gain an edge in NFL point spread betting

NBA Key Numbers

Key numbers matter less in the NBA because basketball scores are much higher and more varied than football.

Instead of structured scoring increments like field goals or touchdowns, NBA games feature dozens of scoring plays of 2 or 3 points each.

Still, spreads often cluster around small margins in competitive matchups:

• Common NBA margins: 1–3 points in close games
• Because scoring is rapid and more random, NBA outcomes don’t gravitate toward fixed key numbers as strongly as the NFL

This means line shopping is still important, but key numbers aren’t quite as powerful a tool for NBA bettors as they are for NFL wagering.

Point Spreads by Sport

While spread betting is most commonly associated with football and basketball, nearly every major sport has its own version of point spreads.

A solid point spread explained breakdown helps bettors understand why each league handles spreads differently based on scoring patterns, game pace, and competitiveness.

Here’s how spread betting works across the most popular sports in Colorado and how the point spread explained may vary depending on the sport.

NFL Point Spreads

NFL spreads are the most popular and most widely bet point spreads in Colorado. Because football scoring occurs in structured increments, spreads tend to fall within predictable ranges.

• Typical spread range: 1 to 17 points, depending on matchup strength
• Tight games may feature spreads like -1.5 or -2.5, while mismatches can push toward double digits

For Colorado fans, Denver Broncos spread betting is a staple. Whether the Broncos are favored at home in Mile High or underdogs against AFC West rivals, the point spread provides multiple ways to find value beyond simply picking a winner.

NBA Point Spreads

The NBA features much higher scoring than the NFL, which means spreads can vary more widely.

• Typical spread range: 1 to 15 points
• Blowout-prone matchups may see even larger numbers

The Denver Nuggets often see different spreads depending on location.

• Home games at Ball Arena typically bring stronger spreads due to altitude advantage and home-court performance.
• Road games may feature tighter lines, especially against top-tier opponents.

Because scoring is so fluid in the NBA, spreads move quickly—making line shopping essential.

NHL Puck Line

In hockey, the spread is called the puck line, and unlike NFL or NBA spreads, it is almost always fixed:

• Standard puck line: -1.5 / +1.5
• It rarely changes, but the juice (odds) can shift dramatically based on team quality

For the Colorado Avalanche, puck-line odds often depend on:

• Whether they’re heavy favorites
• Goalie matchups
• Injuries or back-to-back scheduling

Example: Avalanche -1.5 (+140) vs. a weaker opponent might offer higher payout but requires a multi-goal win to cover.

MLB Run Line

Baseball uses the run line, which works almost identically to the puck line:

• Standard run line: -1.5 / +1.5
• Odds shift depending on pitching matchups and ballpark factors

With the Colorado Rockies, spreads can be especially dynamic because Coors Field produces high-scoring games. A team might be -1.5 but still carry lower juice due to the increased unpredictability of large run totals.

College Football & Basketball Spreads

College sports feature the widest spreads of all, largely because team talent gaps can be significant

Colorado bettors can legally wager on all in-state college teams, including:

• Colorado Buffaloes (CU)
• Colorado State Rams (CSU)
• Air Force Falcons

Because college games can be volatile and fast-paced, spreads often shift quickly throughout the week, making early-line betting a strong strategy.

Spread Betting Strategies for Colorado Bettors

Smart spread betting isn’t just about picking winners—it’s about finding the best numbers, minimizing juice, and understanding when adjustments can work in your favor.

For anyone still learning what is a spread in betting, these strategies can help Colorado bettors improve long-term results across NFL, NBA, NHL, and college sports.

Line Shopping

One of the most effective spread betting strategies is line shopping, which simply means comparing spreads across multiple Colorado-licensed sportsbooks before placing your wager.

Even a half-point difference—such as -2.5 instead of -3, or +7.5 instead of +7—can swing your win rate dramatically over a season.

Because spreads and juice vary by operator, having accounts with several legal Colorado sportsbooks gives you a significant advantage.

Popular CO operators include:

• DraftKings Sportsbook
• FanDuel Sportsbook
• BetMGM
• Caesars Sportsbook

Checking multiple apps takes seconds but can improve your edge over thousands of bets.

Buying Points

Buying points allows you to move the spread in your favor, typically in exchange for worse odds.

Buying points is most valuable when:

• You can cross key numbers (especially 3 and 7 in the NFL)
• The added juice isn’t excessive
• The matchup is expected to be close or low scoring

While buying points costs more upfront, it can reduce variance and protect you in tight games.

Teaser Bets (Brief Mention)

A teaser allows you to adjust the spread on multiple games at once—typically by 6, 6.5, or 7 points—in exchange for combining them into a single parlay-style ticket.

Teasers are most popular in NFL betting, where key numbers and predictable scoring make adjusted spreads more meaningful.

Spread Betting Legality in Colorado

Colorado is one of the most sports-betting-friendly states in the U.S., offering a regulated, safe, and competitive marketplace for spread betting.

Whether you’re wagering on the Broncos, Nuggets, Avalanche, or Colorado college teams, it’s important to understand how does spread betting work within the rules that govern legal sports betting in the state.

Colorado Sports Betting Regulations

Sports betting has been fully legal in Colorado since May 1, 2020, following the approval of Proposition DD by voters in November 2019. The industry operates under strict oversight to ensure fairness and consumer protection.

Key regulations include:

• Regulator: Colorado Division of Gaming (under the Department of Revenue)
• Minimum age: 21 years old
• Location requirement: Bettors must be physically located within Colorado when placing wagers (verified through geolocation technology)
• College sports betting: Fully permitted, including point spreads and full-game markets on in-state teams such as the Colorado Buffaloes, CSU Rams, and Air Force Falcons
  
  Note: Player props on college athletes may be restricted under state rules and sportsbook policies.

These regulations ensure that Colorado bettors enjoy a transparent, safe, and well-monitored betting environment.

Licensed Colorado Sportsbooks for Spread Betting

Colorado hosts one of the largest selections of licensed online sportsbooks in the country, offering extensive point spread markets across NFL, NBA, NHL, MLB, and college sports. Bettors can legally place spread wagers through trusted operators such as:

• DraftKings Sportsbook
• FanDuel Sportsbook
• BetMGM
• Caesars Sportsbook
• Additional licensed regional and national operators

Each sportsbook provides slightly different spreads, odds, and promotions, which is why comparing prices across operators can significantly improve your long-term results.

For a deeper breakdown of each operator and available bonuses, visit our sportsbook reviews and Colorado sports betting homepage.

Responsible Spread Betting in Colorado

Spread betting can be exciting and rewarding, but it’s important to approach it with discipline and awareness.

Colorado’s regulated market includes tools and resources designed to help bettors stay in control and enjoy wagering safely.

If you need any help, do not hesitate to visit our page for responsible gambling.

Setting Limits and Bankroll Management

Smart bankroll management is one of the most important habits for long-term betting success—and financial well-being.

• Never wager more than you can afford to lose. Treat spread betting as entertainment, not a source of income.
• Use built-in deposit, time, and wager limits available at all licensed Colorado sportsbooks to help control your spending.
• Avoid chasing losses. Increasing bet size after a loss often leads to bigger losses and emotional decision-making. Stick to your plan and bet within your comfort zone.

Consistent, disciplined betting is far more important than trying to hit a big win.

Colorado Problem Gambling Resources

If sports betting ever stops being fun or begins affecting your well-being, Colorado offers several confidential support resources:

📞 Colorado Problem Gambling Helpline: 1-800-522-4700

🌐 National Council on Problem Gambling

Spread Betting FAQs

What does +7 spread mean in betting?

A +7 spread means the team is a 7-point underdog. They can lose by up to 7 points and still push, or lose by fewer than 7—or win outright—to cover the spread. Your bet wins if they perform better than the +7 margin.

What does -3.5 mean in point spread betting?

A -3.5 spread means the team is the favorite and must win by 4 or more points to cover. The “.5” is known as the hook, and it eliminates the possibility of a push.

What happens if a game ends exactly on the spread?

When the final score lands exactly on the spread, it’s called a push. In this case, the sportsbook refunds your original bet, and neither you nor the book wins. This can only happen with whole-number spreads (e.g., -3, +7).

Why are most spread bets -110 odds?

Most spread bets use -110 odds because the sportsbook charges a small fee—called the juice or vigorish—to take the bet. Betting $110 to win $100 helps the book balance its action and ensures it maintains a consistent margin over the long term. Odds may shift (e.g., -105, -115) depending on betting action.

Can I bet on Colorado college teams’ point spreads?

Yes. Colorado law allows spread betting on in-state college teams, including the Colorado Buffaloes, CSU Rams, and Air Force Falcons. The only limitations apply to college player props, which may be restricted depending on the sportsbook.

Is spread betting better than moneyline betting?

Neither is “better”—they simply serve different purposes. Moneyline betting is about picking the winner outright, while spread betting adjusts the matchup to reflect expected scoring margin. Spreads often offer better value when the favorite is heavily favored or when you expect a close game.

What does “covering the spread” mean?

“Covering the spread” means your team beats the point spread set by oddsmakers.

• Favorites cover by winning by more than the spread.
• Underdogs cover by losing by less than the spread—or by winning the game outright.

How do I place a spread bet in Colorado?

1. Sign up with a licensed Colorado sportsbook.
2. Verify you’re 21 or older and physically located in Colorado.
3. Navigate to the sport you want to bet (NFL, NBA, NHL, college, etc.).
4. Select the point spread and enter your wager amount.
5. Confirm the bet slip and wait for the game to play out.