Author Guarantor: Andrew Cross
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Created: 04/07/2022 - 07:59
Last updated: 11/12/2023 - 09:02

In the realm of sports betting, the term 'Backdoor Cover' hides an intriguing twist that can reshape the outcomes of wagers. Explore this concept to gain insights into how late-game scenarios can sway betting results. Whether you're a novice in the world of sports betting or a seasoned enthusiast, delving into the nuances of the back door cover betting is essential for making informed and strategic bets.

This article unravels the mystery behind this phenomenon, providing you with the knowledge to navigate the dynamic landscape of sports betting.

What is a Backdoor Cover? Detailed Examples.

A "backdoor cover" is a term used in sports betting, particularly in point spread betting. It refers to a situation where a team, which was losing by more points than the point spread at the beginning of the game, scores late in the game to narrow the margin of defeat. This late scoring can result in the underdog team covering the point spread, even though they were not expected to do so based on the score earlier in the game.

Let's explore detailed examples of a backdoor cover in sports betting:

Example 1: Football Game 

Suppose there's an NFL game between Team A and Team B. The point spread for the game is Team A -7, meaning Team A is favored to win by at least 7 points, and Team B is the underdog by the same margin.

  • In the fourth quarter, with just a few minutes left, Team A is comfortably leading 24-10, covering the spread by 7 points.
  • However, Team B manages to score a late touchdown, making the score 24-17. Although Team A still wins the game, they only win by 7 points, which is exactly the point spread.
  • This late touchdown by Team B results in a backdoor cover for them. Bettors who placed wagers on Team B with the point spread (+7) would win their bets because
  • Team B covered the spread due to their late scoring.

Example 2: Basketball Game

Consider a college basketball game between Team X and Team Y. The point spread for the game is Team X -10, indicating Team X is expected to win by at least 10 points.

  • Late in the game, Team X has been comfortably ahead by 15 points, and it seems like they will easily cover the spread.
  • However, in the final minutes, Team Y manages to make a series of three-pointers and free throws, cutting Team X's lead to just 8 points as the game ends.
  • Despite Team X's victory, they fail to cover the 10-point spread because of Team Y's late scoring surge.
  • Bettors who placed wagers on Team Y with the point spread (+10) would win their bets due to the backdoor cover created by Team Y's late-game performance.

Back door cover betting can be both frustrating and exciting for bettors, as they can dramatically alter the outcome of bets placed on point spreads. It emphasizes the importance of paying attention to games until the final whistle, as late-game scoring can have a significant impact on the betting outcome.

Readmore: What is a Same Game Parlay?

How Does a Backdoor Cover Occur?

A backdoor cover occurs when a team in a sporting event manages to cover the point spread late in the game, despite initially trailing by a margin larger than the spread. Here's how it happens:

  • Point Spread Betting: In sports betting, particularly in point spread betting, a point spread is set by oddsmakers to handicap the favorite and give the underdog a chance. The point spread represents the predicted margin of victory for the favored team.
  • Early Game Situation: At the start or during most of the game, the favored team (Team A) is comfortably ahead by a score that, without context, would suggest they are covering the spread. For example, Team A might be leading by 14 points when the spread was -10 in their favor.
  • Late-Game Turnaround: In the closing minutes of the game, the underdog team (Team B) mounts a late-game scoring surge, often through touchdowns, field goals, three-pointers, or free throws, depending on the sport. This surge narrows the margin of victory.
  • Backdoor Cover Scenario: As a result of this late scoring by Team B, the final score ends up with Team A winning by a margin less than the point spread. In our example, Team A might win by only 7 points instead of the required 10 points to cover the spread.
  • Bettor Outcome: Bettors who placed wagers on Team B with the point spread (+10) end up winning their bets. Even though Team A won the game, the late scoring by Team B allowed them to cover the spread, creating a backdoor cover scenario.

A backdoor cover often leads to mixed emotions among bettors. Those who bet on the underdog may be pleasantly surprised by the unexpected turn of events, while those who bet on the favorite may be disappointed by the late-game performance that cost them their wagers. It highlights the importance of following games closely until the final moments in sports betting, as late scoring can impact the betting outcome significantly.

How Does a Backdoor Cover Occur?
Source: Freepik

Is A Backdoor Cover Only Applies to Underdogs?

No, a backdoor cover does not only apply to underdogs. While it is more commonly associated with underdogs because they are the ones initially trailing by a margin larger than the point spread, it can also occur with the favored team in certain situations.

Here's how a backdoor cover can apply to both underdogs and favored teams:

1. Underdogs: In the typical scenario, an underdog (Team B) is trailing by a larger margin than the point spread for most of the game but manages to score late and narrow the gap. This late scoring allows the underdog to cover the point spread, creating a backdoor cover scenario.

2. Favored Teams: In less common situations, even the favored team (Team A) can be on the wrong side of a backdoor cover. Here's how:

  • The point spread for the favored team is -10 points, indicating they are expected to win by at least 10 points. 
  • Team A leads comfortably by 15 points throughout the game, covering the spread.
    However, late in the game, Team A's performance falters, and they allow the underdog (Team B) to score multiple times, narrowing the lead to, for instance, 8 points.
  • Even though Team A wins the game, they fail to cover the 10-point spread due to their late-game struggles. This creates a backdoor cover scenario for bettors who wagered on the underdog with the point spread (+10).

So, while back door cover betting are often associated with underdogs, they can also occur with favored teams if they fail to maintain their lead late in the game, allowing the opponent to cover the spread in the final minutes.

Should a Sports Betting Beginner Bet With Backdoor Cover?

For a sports betting beginner, it's important to approach betting strategies, including those involving backdoor covers, with caution and a clear understanding of the risks involved. Here are some considerations for beginners:

  • Understand the Basics: Before delving into more advanced betting concepts like backdoor covers, make sure you have a solid understanding of the fundamentals of sports betting. Learn about point spreads, moneylines, odds, and how betting works.
  • Start Conservatively: Beginners should focus on conservative betting strategies. This typically involves straightforward bets on moneylines or point spreads without relying heavily on more complex scenarios like backdoor covers.
  • Manage Bankroll: Proper bankroll management is crucial. Only wager what you can afford to lose, and avoid chasing losses. Betting with a clear budget and discipline is essential for long-term success.
  • Learn and Research: Take the time to research teams, analyze statistics, and stay informed about injuries and team dynamics. This research will help you make more informed bets.
  • Avoid Overreliance: Relying solely on backdoor cover scenarios is not a sustainable strategy. While they can be exciting when they happen, they are relatively unpredictable and don't guarantee consistent success.
  • Seek Advice: It can be helpful to seek advice from experienced bettors or utilize reputable sports betting resources and forums to learn about different strategies.
  • Practice Patience: Betting is a long-term endeavor, and it's essential to have patience and avoid impulsive decisions.
  • Start Small: Begin with smaller bets until you gain more experience and confidence in your betting strategies.

FAQs

1. How does a Backdoor Cover impact sports betting outcomes?

A Backdoor Cover can lead to unexpected outcomes in sports betting, affecting whether a bet placed on the point spread is a win or a loss.

2. Is a Backdoor Cover exclusive to underdog teams?

No, a Backdoor Cover can apply to both underdog and favored teams. It depends on whether the late-game scoring affects the point spread.

3. Can I predict when a Backdoor Cover will happen?

Backdoor Covers are challenging to predict, as they depend on late-game scenarios that can be unpredictable. It's essential to follow games closely to spot potential opportunities.

4. How can I use knowledge of Backdoor Covers in my sports betting strategy?

While you can't predict them with certainty, understanding Backdoor Covers can help you make more informed bets, especially in live or in-play betting situations.

5. Are there any specific sports where Backdoor Covers are more common?

Backdoor Covers can occur in various sports, but they are more prevalent in those with point spread betting, such as American football and basketball.

6. Should beginners focus on Backdoor Covers in their sports betting strategy?

Beginners should start with fundamental betting strategies and gradually explore advanced concepts like Backdoor Covers as they gain more experience and knowledge.

7. Can I use Backdoor Covers to my advantage when betting on sports?

While Backdoor Covers can be exciting, they are relatively unpredictable. It's crucial to approach sports betting with a well-rounded strategy that considers various factors beyond late-game scoring.

Conclusion

the Backdoor Cover is a fascinating aspect of sports betting, demonstrating the unpredictable nature of sports and the potential for late-game twists to influence betting outcomes. As you venture further into the world of sports betting, keep in mind that understanding this concept is just one piece of the puzzle.

Successful betting requires a combination of knowledge, strategy, discipline, and a keen eye for opportunities. So, whether you're cheering for the underdog to stage a backdoor cover or counting on the favorite to maintain their lead, remember that in the world of sports betting, anything can happen, and being well-prepared is your best bet.

Published: 04 July 2022 07:59
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