If you’ve ever dabbled in NFL betting, you may have come across the term ATS. But what does ATS mean, and how does it relate to wagering on American football games? In this blog post, we’ll explain the meaning of ATS in NFL betting and why it’s crucial to understand this concept before placing your bets.
ATS stands for Against the Spread, which is a popular type of bet commonly used in sports betting, including NFL games.
When you place an ATS bet, you are not simply wagering which team will win. Instead, you are betting on whether a team will cover or beat the point spread set by oddsmakers.
So, what is a point spread?
A point spread is a predetermined margin of victory or defeat that the favorite team must win by or the underdog team must lose by to determine the outcome of an ATS bet.
It essentially levels the playing field between the two teams and makes the bet more competitive.
What is ATS in NFL Betting Example
To illustrate this, let’s use a hypothetical NFL game between the New England Patriots and the Miami Dolphins.
If the oddsmakers set the point spread at -6 in favor of the Patriots, it means the Patriots must win the game by more than six points for an ATS bet on them to be successful.
On the other hand, if you bet on the Dolphins (+6), they can either win the game outright or lose by fewer than six points for the bet to be a winner.
Now that you understand the basic concept of ATS, it’s important to note that the odds for ATS bets are typically -110 or 10/11.
This means that to win $100, you need to wager $110.
The sportsbook takes a commission, or vigorish, from your bet, hence the slightly higher amount required to win.
ATS bets add an exciting element to NFL games, allowing you to cheer for a team even if they don’t win the game outright.
They also provide an opportunity to capitalize on perceived mismatches or underrated teams.
In addition to understanding the meaning of ATS, it’s crucial to do your research and analysis before placing ATS bets.
Studying team and player statistics, injury reports, and trends can significantly increase your chances of making informed decisions.
Whether you’re a seasoned bettor or just starting out, considering online NFL betting can provide you with a wide range of sportsbooks to choose from.
Websites like USA Sportsbook List offer comprehensive reviews of various online sportsbooks, giving you valuable insights into their features, bonuses, and user experiences.
By using their recommended sportsbooks, you can have a safe and enjoyable betting experience while taking advantage of the latest odds and promos.
So, the next time you’re discussing NFL betting or browsing through sportsbooks, remember what ATS stands for and how it can elevate your wagering experience by adding more excitement and strategy to your bets.