What Does -6 Mean in College Football Betting?

A -6 point spread in college football betting means the favorite must win the game by at least seven points to cover the spread. If the favorite wins by exactly six points, the bet results in a push (a tie), which refunds all stakes.

The corresponding side of a -6 point spread is +6. That means the underdog must win the game (by any margin) or lose by five or less points to cover the spread. If the underdog loses by exactly six points, it’s a push.

How a -6 Spread Bet Wins or Loses

Winning Bet: You bet on Hawaii -6 against Wyoming. The Rainbow Warriors beat the Cowboys by seven points (27-20).

Losing Bet: You bet on Toledo -6 against Eastern Michigan. The Rockets lose to the Eagles by eight points (48-40).

Push Bet: You bet on Oregon -6 against USC. The Ducks beat the Trojans by six points (29-23).

Difference of -6 Point Spread vs. Moneyline

In point-spread betting, the margin of victory matters. In moneyline betting, the margin of victory doesn’t matter; only the final outcome matters.

In the case of a 6-point spread, the favorite could win the game by six points — which would result in winning tickets for all moneyline bets — but push the spread.

Spread vs. Moneyline Odds & Payouts

Spreads and moneylines almost always have different odds. For example, here are odds for a Colorado-Oklahoma State game:

Spread: Colorado -6 (-110), Oklahoma State +6 (-110)

Moneyline: Colorado -125, Oklahoma State +100

If the Buffaloes win by seven points, a point-spread bet with a $20 stake would return $38.18 (including stake).

If you bet the same amount of money on the Buffaloes’ moneyline, a win would return $36 (including stake).