How a teaser works
A standard football teaser moves each leg 6 points in your direction. A -8 favorite becomes -2; a +3 underdog becomes +9. You combine two or more teased legs into one ticket. The better lines make each leg easier to win, but like any parlay, one loss sinks the whole thing, and the price reflects the added cushion.
A worked example
You teaser two favorites, -8.5 and -7.5, down by 6 points to -2.5 and -1.5. Both now only need narrow wins to cover. If both cash, a two-team 6-point teaser pays about -120 to +100 depending on the book. If either fails, you lose. Popular "basic strategy" teasers cross the key numbers of 3 and 7 in football.
When teasers make sense
Teasers are strongest when the extra points move a line across key margins, especially 3 and 7 in football, where a large share of games are decided. Crossing those numbers is where the added points carry real value. Teasing lines that do not cross key numbers usually just donates the payout reduction to the book.
Frequently asked questions
How many points do you get in a teaser?
Football teasers commonly move each leg 6, 6.5 or 7 points in your favor. The more points, the lower the payout.
Are teasers a good bet?
Only when the extra points cross key numbers like 3 and 7 in football. Otherwise the reduced payout usually outweighs the easier lines.
Related terms
21+. For entertainment and educational purposes, not financial advice. If gambling stops being fun, take a break. 1-800-GAMBLER. Regulated US books only.