Concept

Line


The odds or spread posted by a sportsbook. "The line moved" means the price changed.

Line is the catchall term for any posted price; spread, moneyline, total, or prop. Common uses:

  • “What’s the line on Packers/Bears?” → asking for the spread
  • “The line moved from -3 to -3.5” → the spread shifted
  • “I got the best line at this book” → got the most favorable price
  • “Sharp money is on the dog; the line is moving” → professional bettors are pushing one side

Lines move because of new information (injuries, weather) or because of one-sided money (action imbalance). Sophisticated bettors watch line movement to confirm or refute their thesis.