When you open a sportsbook, three numbers appear next to every game. Each one is asking a different question.
The simplest bet. Just pick who wins. The price changes based on how likely each team is to win. Example: Chiefs -220 / Bills +185. Bet $220 on the Chiefs to win $100, or bet $100 on the Bills to win $185.
The spread levels the playing field. The favorite must win by more than the spread. The underdog can lose by less and still cover. Both sides usually priced at -110.
Nothing to do with who wins. You're betting whether the combined score goes over or under a set number. If the total is 51.5, you bet Over or Under 51.5 combined points.
Moneyline: when you believe strongly in an upset. Spread: most common, balanced bet. Total: when you have a strong read on pace or defense.
Moneyline = who wins. Spread = who wins by how much. Total = combined points. All three can be bet on the same game.