Cover (Against the Spread, ATS)

A favorite covers when it wins by more than the spread; an underdog covers when it loses by less than the spread (or wins outright). "Against the spread" (ATS) records are win/loss measured by covering rather than the outright result.

• Spread — A handicap on the favorite (−6.5) and underdog (+6.5). The favorite must win by more than the number to cover.
• Push — A bet that lands exactly on the number. Graded as no-action — the stake is returned, counting as neither a win nor a loss.