What does - mean on a point spread?

Every point spread has a favorite and an underdog. The negative value (-) indicates the point spread favorite, and that team must win the game by more than that number for bettors to win their wager.

What does a -2.5 point spread mean?

A +2.5 point spread indicates a side is the underdog. In order to win a bet on a +2.5 underdog, the side must win outright or not lose by more than 2 points.

What is a 0.5 spread & how does it work?

However, depending on which side you bet, the 0.5 acts like a whole point. Again, if the spread is +2.5, you need to win outright or lose by no more than two; if the spread is -2.5, you not only need to win outright, but you need to do so by three or more.