Alternative spread lines give bettors more options when wagering on the point spread. Rather than just taking the spread set by oddsmakers, you can adjust the margin to your liking. While alternate lines provide added choices, it’s key to understand how they work before diving in.
What Are Alternate Point Spreads?
An alternate point spread allows you to modify the spread set by oddsmakers. For example, here are the main lines for an NFL game:
- Team A -7 (-110)
- Team B +7 (-110)
You can bet on Team A giving 7 points or Team B getting 7 points. With alternate lines, you can change the margin. Some options could be:
- Team A -3 (+130)
- Team B +3 (-150)
- Team A -10 (-140)
- Team B +10 (+120)
The more you adjust the spread from the original lines, the more the odds will change.
Why Sportsbooks Offer Alternate Lines
- Gives bettors more choices for wagering
- Attracts more total bets and betting handle
- Allows bettors to customize spreads/totals to their liking
While not every alternate line will be popular, the overall variety can appeal to bettors. Sportsbooks benefit from the extra action, while bettors get more flexibility.
How Odds Work on Alternate Lines
The odds on alternate lines fluctuate much more than standard spreads. Here’s an example:
- Team A -7 (-110)
- Team B +7 (-110)
Fairly standard odds for both sides. But if we modify the alternate lines:
- Team A -3 (+150)
- Team B +3 (-170)
- Team A -10 (-125)
- Team B +10 (+105)
Taking on extra risk with Team A -10 means a higher potential payout. Getting extra points with Team B +10 means lower potential winnings. The more the alternate line differs from the original spread, the more variance in odds.
Strategy for Alternate Lines
- Consider when you have a strong sense of what margin a game will be decided by. Rather than hoping it lands on 7 points, you can adjust to your expected margin.
- Can provide better odds. If you see +120 on the alternate line compared to -110 on the original line, the value may be there.
- Allows you to “middle” spreads by betting both sides at different alternate margins.
- Adds variety if you don’t like the standard options.
Finding Alternate Lines at Sportsbooks
All major online sportsbooks offer alternate lines, but they may be listed differently.
- DraftKings lists them under “Alt Spread” and “Alt Total” tabs.
- FanDuel has them under “More Wagers.
- BetMGM puts them in the “Other Bets” section.
Take a look at the various tabs in the sportsbook to locate alternate lines. Consider using them selectively when standard lines don’t appeal or you want to customize your betting options.
Pros and Cons of Alternate Lines
Pros
- Added choices compared to main lines
- Ability to adjust spreads/totals to your ideal numbers
- Potential for better odds and payouts
Cons
- Have to pick wisely, as with any bet
- Can take on too much added risk if not careful
- Still need to win bets to make profitable long term
Key Takeaways
- Alternate lines let you modify standard spreads and totals
- Odds fluctuate based on how much risk you take on
- Can work well if used properly but no sure-thing
- Available at all major sportsbooks but may need to search
While alternate lines give bettors more control, they don’t guarantee profits. As with any wager, smart and selective betting remains important. But the added choices are there if you want to move beyond the main lines.