In NFL betting, a “‑6.5” handicap (aka “-6.5 point spread”) means the favorite must win the game by 7 points or morefor a wager on them to win. Here’s how it breaks down:
- If the favorite wins by 7 or more points, bets on –6.5 win.
- If they win by 6 or fewer, or lose the game, the bet loses.
- Because of the half‑point, a push is impossible—your bet either wins or loses
In other words, bettors are giving the favorite a virtual 6.5‑point head start. The favorite must “overhaul” this cushion to cover the spread, while the underdog (at +6.5) only needs to lose by 6 or less—or win outright—to cash.
Example :
Say the Chiefs are −6.5 favorites.
- Chiefs win 28–20 (8-point margin): Cover, bet wins.
- Chiefs win 27–20 (7-point margin): Cover, bet wins.
- Chiefs win 26–20 (6-point margin): Doesn’t cover, bet loses.
- Chiefs lose the game: Bet loses.
This is different from a moneyline bet, where you’re simply picking the winner without worrying about margins.
Why use a -6.5 spread?
Point spreads level the betting field between a stronger and weaker team, making each side (favorites and underdogs) roughly equally attractive to bettors. The half-point ensures a definitive outcome—no ties .
Summary Table
| Bet on | Win condition | Lose condition |
|---|---|---|
| –6.5 | Favorite wins by 7 or more | Favorite wins by ≤6 or loses |
| +6.5 | Underdog wins or loses by ≤6 | Underdog loses by ≥7 |