All Updates Create Pool

Strategy

Pool Spreads: How They Work

Point spreads add tension to football pools by making favorites prove more and underdogs worth a second look. Instead of asking only who wins, spread pools ask who performs better against the number.

ATS Basics Weekly Numbers Fixed Once Posted
← Back to News

May 6, 2026

What are pool spreads?

Pool spreads are the point spreads your group uses to grade picks against the spread, often called ATS. A favorite has to win by more than the listed number. An underdog can lose the game and still cover if it stays within the spread.

Quick example

PHI -6.5 vs DAL +6.5

If PHI wins by 7 or more, PHI covers. If PHI wins by 6 or fewer, or loses outright, DAL covers.

Related

Want the bigger picture first? See how spreads fit into both Pick'em and Confidence pool formats.

Pick'em Formats Confidence Formats

Why groups use spreads

  • Favorites are not automatic. A strong team still has to win by enough.
  • Underdogs stay interesting. A team can lose the game but still be the right pool pick.
  • Weekly strategy gets sharper. Players have to think about game margins, not just winners.
  • Standings stay tighter. Spreads usually create more disagreement across the pool.

How weekly pool spreads work

At PickTheGame, spreads for the full week are set at the beginning of each week. Once those pool spreads are posted, they do not change for that week's pool.

That matters because sportsbook lines move all week based on injuries, betting volume, and news. Pool spreads are different. Your group is competing against one fixed set of weekly numbers, not a moving target.

  • Set once each week: everyone sees the same spreads for that week's slate.
  • No midweek changes: posted pool spreads stay locked even if outside betting lines move later.
  • Fair for the whole group: nobody gets a different number just because they picked earlier or later.

Where spreads show up in pool formats

Spreads are usually used in two common ways:

  • Pick'em + Spreads: each game is worth the same, but picks are graded ATS instead of winner only.
  • Confidence + Spreads: picks are graded ATS, and you also assign confidence points to each one.

If your group likes simple rules, start with regular Pick'em. If your group wants more strategy, spreads are often the next step.

Beginner tips for spread pools

  • Read the sign carefully: minus means favorite, plus means underdog.
  • Think in margins: ask whether the favorite wins by enough, not just whether it wins.
  • Know the house rule: make sure your group is clear on pushes and deadline timing.
  • Do not chase line movement: in a pool, the posted weekly spread is the one that counts.

Ready to run a spread pool with your group?

Create a Pool