Football Point Spreads: Not for Betting Only

Point spreads “level the playing field” for favorites and underdogs in football. Point spreads can do the same for coaches. Those from lesser known schools are often passed over in polls for best coaches as criteria typically emphasize the national titles, bowl victories, and top rankings that accrue exclusively to big-time programs. Success against the spread creates its own poll in this study and recognizes coaches who might otherwise be overlooked for coaching honors.