Betting

Live odds across every league, parlay tools, calculators, and everything you need to make smarter picks.

Learn the terms

Betting Glossary

Core terms every bettor should know before risking a dollar.

Spread

The number of points a favorite must win by (or an underdog can lose by) for a bet to cash.

Ex: Chiefs -6.5 vs Raiders +6.5. If Chiefs win 24-14, they won by 10 — they cover. If they win 24-20, they only won by 4 — they failed to cover and Raiders +6.5 wins.

Moneyline

A straight bet on who wins. No spread, no margin — just the winner.

Ex: Chiefs -200 means: bet $200 to win $100. Raiders +180 means: bet $100 to win $180. If you think Chiefs win 65% of the time, -200 (66.7% implied) is barely worth it.

Over / Under (Total)

Bet on whether the combined score of both teams will be over or under the posted number. Doesn't care who wins.

Ex: Total of 52.5. Chiefs-Raiders ends 31-24 — combined 55, over cashes. Ends 20-17 — combined 37, under cashes. Ends 28-24 — combined 52, under cashes (bettors needed 53+).

Favorite vs Underdog

The favorite is the team expected to win (negative moneyline). The underdog is the one not expected to win (positive moneyline).

Ex: Chiefs -300 are a heavy favorite (implied 75% win rate). Raiders +250 are a clear underdog (implied 28.6%).

Push

A tie with the sportsbook — the spread or total lands exactly on the number. You don't win or lose; your stake is returned.

Ex: You bet Chiefs -3. They win 24-21. Margin of victory: 3. Push. Your $110 stake is refunded in full.

Unit

Standardized bet size based on your bankroll (often 1-5% of total). Lets you compare performance across bankrolls.

Ex: Bankroll $1,000, unit size 2%. 1u = $20. A "3-unit play on Chiefs -3.5" = $60 at -110 odds.

Play Responsibly

Odds and analysis on Locker Room are provided for informational and entertainment purposes only. We are not a sportsbook and do not accept wagers. Gambling involves risk — only bet what you can afford to lose.

Must be 21 or older (18+ in some jurisdictions) to wager. Sports betting is not legal in every state; check your local laws before placing any bets.

Problem gambling? Help is available 24/7.

📞 Call 1-800-GAMBLER ncpgambling.org ↗

Leagues

More