Against The Spread Bets (ATS) Explained
Tired of seeing “ATS” on betting sites and not knowing what it means? Against the Spread betting is a powerful way to level the playing field and boost your profits. In this guide, you’ll learn how it works, why it’s so popular, and the strategies you need to succeed.
Let’s dive in and uncover what ATS means in sports betting!
🔑 Key Takeaways
- Discover how to place ATS bets on the point spread of a match.
- Read our strategies to win against the spread properly.
- Learn how to bet against the spread in your favorite sports.
What Is an Against The Spread Bet?
An Against the Spread (ATS) bet is a wager on the point spread, a margin set by oddsmakers to level the playing field between the favorite and the underdog.
Example: In an NBA game: Golden State Warriors (-8) vs. Boston Celtics (+8)
The Warriors must win by more than 8 points for a bet on them to win. Conversely, a Celtics bet pays out if they win outright or lose by 8 points or fewer.
With ATS betting, you’re wagering on whether a team will cover the spread—not just who wins the game.
Pros and Cons of ATS Betting
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Balances odds | Requires some research |
| Offers flexibility | Sportsbooks take a cut |
| Appeals to all bettors | Risk of push outcomes |
How Does an ATS Bet Work in Sports Betting?
Against the Spread bets involve wagering on whether a team will perform better or worse than the point spread set by oddsmakers. Here’s how it works:
Example: Packers (-5.5) vs. Panthers (+5.5)
- Bet on Packers (-5.5): The Packers must win by 6 or more points for your wager to win.
- Bet on Panthers (+5.5): The Panthers must win outright or lose by 5 or fewer points for your bet to be successful.
Game Scenarios:
- Packers win 24–16 (by 8 points): Packers cover the spread, and the bet on them wins.
- Packers win 20–17 (by 3 points): Packers don’t cover the spread, and bets on the Panthers win.
- Exact Spread (Packers win by 5.5): The bet results in a push; your wager is refunded.
ATS bets make games more exciting by balancing matchups, even when one team is heavily favored.
How to Calculate the ATS Bet Payout?
To calculate your ATS bet payout, use the odds provided by the sportsbook, typically -110 (bet $110 to win $100). Odds can vary due to market conditions.
Here are the steps to follow:
- Divide 100 by the odds.
100/110 ≈ 0.91
- Multiply by your wager.
For a $20 bet, $20 x 0.91 = $18.2 winnings
- Add your wager.
Total payout = $18.2 + $20 = $38.2
ATS Betting in Different Sports
You can bet against the spread in American football, basketball, baseball, and college sports. While the concept is similar, strategies and spread margins vary across sports.
NFL Betting
Predict NFL outcomes based on the point spread, which typically ranges from 3 to 7 points.
Example: Cowboys -4.5 vs. Commanders +4.5.
NBA Betting
Wager on the NBA with spreads as wide as 20 points, available by quarter, half, or full game.
Example: Cavaliers -7 vs. Raptors +7.
MLB Betting
MLB uses the run line, set at 1.5 runs, with adjusted odds.
Example: Yankees -1.5 (+120), Red Sox +1.5 (-140).
The Yankees must win by 2+, or the Red Sox lose by 1 or win outright.
College Football Betting
College football spreads account for factors like rivalries and home-field advantage.
Example: Ohio State -7.5 vs. Michigan.
Best Strategies to Boost Your ATS Bets
Boosting your ATS success requires smart strategies and informed decisions. Here’s how to improve your chances:
- Analyze Key Factors: Evaluate team performance metrics, recent form, critical injuries, coaching decisions, and weather conditions. Use advanced stats like expected points or yards per play to gain an edge.
- Shop for the Best Lines: Compare odds across multiple sportsbooks to get the most value for your bets.
- Practice Bankroll Management: Set a budget, stick to it, and avoid chasing losses. Responsible betting ensures long-term success.
So, Will You Start Betting Against the Spread?
ATS betting is key to combining excitement with potential rewards. By focusing on both the winner and the margin of victory, it offers better odds and higher payouts than moneyline bets.
Ready for even more rewarding betting strategies? Check out our comprehensive Betting 101 guide and take your wagering game to the next level.
Frequently Asked Questions
ATS betting offers better odds, opportunities to win on both favorites and underdogs, and adds excitement by focusing on the margin of victory.
Research is essential—analyze team performance, use betting tools for trends and real-time odds, and stay informed with expert insights from reliable platforms like TrustnBet.