The title refers to the spread betting put by the Strike Team on a basketball game, knowing they will affect the outcome by holding Derrick Tripp in custody illegally. Also, the title might refer to William Greeley's desire to "spread" his seed through his sperm.
Vic compares Dutch to actor/dancer Fred Astaire because of the way Dutch "danced" around a suspect while interrogating him.
While interrogating William Greeley, Detectives Dutch Wagenbach and Vic Mackey make references to serial killers Ted Bundy and Jack the Ripper.
Derrick Tripp is a member of New Jersey's professional basketball team, although it is never referenced as the New Jersey Nets.