What Is The Hook in Sports Betting?

A hook in sports betting — more commonly called "the hook" — is the name for the last half point of a non-whole number spread. So if a team is a 3.5-point underdog, the last 0.5 points is considered "the hook."

Why would you ever reference this half-point? Let's dive in.

What Is a Hook in Sports Betting?

Consider an example of Ohio State being favored by 7.5. The hook is the ".5" being tacked onto the 7.

As such, the following phrases are fairly common regarding the hook:

• "Losing by the hook"

As it sounds, losing by a half point. In the above example with the Buckeyes favored by 7.5 points, if Ohio State wins by exactly 7, OSU bettors would "lose by the hook."

• "[Number] and the hook."

A way of phrasing the point spread in a given game. "Ohio State is favored by seven and the hook."

• "Buying the hook."

Buying a half point off a whole number. In a case where Iowa is +3, "buying the hook" would mean buying a half point to +3.5.

If you'd like to learn more college football betting, here is a recommended resources list to check out:

• College Football Betting Tips for Profitability
• College Football Betting Tips on Fading the Public
• Check out our expert team with College Football Picks and real-time College Football Odds

Next in Betting Education 101: Hedging