Alternate Lines Explained: Alt Spreads and Alt Totals
The main spread and total are only one version of a bet. Sportsbooks also post other numbers for the same game, each with its own price.
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What an alternate line is
An alternate line is the same kind of bet with a different number. If the main spread is Team A -3, an alternate spread might be Team A -6 or Team A +1. If the main total is 48.5, alternate totals might be 44.5 or 52.5.
Some people call moving the number buying points. You pay a higher price, or accept a smaller payout, to get a number that is easier to cover.
How the price changes with the number
Moving the number in a bettor's favor makes the price worse. Moving it against the bettor makes the payout bigger.
Here is a simple example with prices that vary by book. Team A -3 may sit at -110. Take Team A at -6 instead and the team must win by 7 or more, so the payout rises, for example to around +150. Move the other way, to Team A +1 where a one point loss still covers, and the price may rise to something like -170, which risks 170 to win 100.
The tradeoff: safer number or smaller payout
A safer number wins more often but pays less. A harder number pays more but wins less often. The book sets the prices so neither choice is free.
A bettor who takes a safer alternate line is not removing risk. The bet can still lose, and the payout on a win is smaller.
Where to find alternate lines
Most sportsbook apps list them inside the game page, under a tab or dropdown called Alternate Lines, Alt Spread or Alt Total. Not every game or sport has them.
Bets can lose. Bettors must be 21 or older where betting is legal. If gambling is a problem for you or someone you know, call 1-800-GAMBLER.
Questions
What is the difference between a main line and an alternate line?
The main line is the number the book posts as its standard spread or total. An alternate line is another number for the same game with a different price.
Does a safer alternate line always lose less?
No. It wins more often, but it pays less when it wins. A bet on any line can still lose.
Are alternate lines the same as teasers?
No. An alternate line is a single bet on one game. A teaser combines at least two legs into one ticket.
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