Cover
When a team wins by more than the point spread, satisfying the bet.
To "cover" means a team wins by more than the point spread requires. If the Chiefs are -7 and win by 10, they covered. If they win by only 3, they failed to cover, and Chiefs bettors lose even though the Chiefs won.
Cover vs. Win
A team can win the game outright but still fail to cover the spread. A heavy favorite (-14) who wins by only 10 wins the game but loses for bettors. Conversely, a big underdog (+14) can lose by 10 and still cover.
The Push
If a team wins by exactly the spread number (e.g., wins by exactly 7 when favored by 7), it's a push and bettors get their money back. Sportsbooks use half-points (.5) specifically to prevent pushes.
Key Takeaways
- Covering means winning by more than the spread, not just winning the game.
- A team can win outright and still fail to cover.
- A push (tie against the spread) returns your wager.
Examples
- Bills -6.5 win by 10. The Bills cover.
- Patriots -3 win by exactly 3. Push, so wagers are returned.
- Cowboys +7 lose by 4. Cowboys cover despite losing.
Related Terms
Test Your Knowledge
1 / 4Do you know what Point Spread means?
A handicap applied to a game that forces the favorite to win by a specified margin.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does ATS mean?
ATS stands for 'Against The Spread', which tracks a team's record of covering or failing to cover the spread.