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An Over/Under bet, also called a total, is a wager on the combined number of points, runs, or goals scored in a game. The sportsbook sets a line, and bettors choose whether the final score will go over (more than the posted total) or under (less than the posted total).
It’s one of the most popular bet types across major sports like the NFL, NBA, MLB, and NHL, giving fans a way to bet on the flow of the game rather than which team wins.
Totals Betting Explained
Oddsmakers set a total by projecting the combined score of both teams in a game, factoring in offensive and defensive strength, pace of play, and recent form. Bettors then decide whether the final score will go over or under that posted number.
The rules are simple: if the game goes over the total, Over bets win; if it finishes under, Under bets cash. Overtime counts toward the total unless otherwise stated, which often makes a difference in close games.
If the final combined score lands exactly on the posted number, the result is called a push, and all wagers are refunded.
How to Bet on Over/Unders
Let’s go over how to place an Over/Under wager step-by-step:
1. Open the sportsbook app and find your game: pick the sport/league, then tap the matchup you want.
2. Select the Totals (Over/Under) market: look for “Total,” “O/U,” or “Over/Under.” You’ll see a number (e.g., 47.5) and odds for Over and Under (often around -110). Remember: overtime typically counts toward totals.
3. Choose Over or Under: tap the side you want to bet on.
4. Enter your stake and review the slip: type your amount; the slip auto-calculates potential payout. Double-check the total number, odds, and that you selected Over or Under correctly.
5. Place the bet: confirm to submit. You can track it in “Open Bets.”
Example: if an NFL total is 47.5 at -110, choosing Over 47.5 means you need 48+ combined points to win (47 or fewer loses). At -110, a $100 bet returns $190.91 total ($90.91 profit) if it hits.
It’s also worth mentioning that you can also bet totals during the game. Lines update in real time with pace and scoring. For example, an NBA game opened at 212.5, but after a fast first quarter, the live total jumps to 224.5. If you think scoring will cool off, you might take Under 224.5 at the listed live odds.
How are Over/Under Lines Set?
Oddsmakers set totals by analyzing a mix of data, matchup factors, and betting market trends. At the core, they look at team offensive and defensive efficiency, pace of play, player injuries, recent performance, and even head-to-head history.
Each sport has its own wrinkles that affect the Over/Under line:
- NFL, college football: weather conditions, offensive vs. defensive line matchups, and quarterback play.
- NBA, college basketball: pace, shooting efficiency, defensive ratings, and player availability.
- MLB: starting pitcher matchups, bullpen fatigue, ballpark dimensions, and even wind conditions.
- NHL: goalie matchups, recent scoring form, and power play vs. penalty kill statistics.
- Soccer: playing styles, formation changes, importance of the match, and travel fatigue.
Finally, the market itself matters. As money comes in, especially from sharp bettors, oddsmakers will adjust totals before game time to balance action and manage risk.
Best Sportsbooks for Over/Under Betting
There are several sportsbook where which you can bet on the Over/Under for games. Two of the best options are DraftKings and FanDuel, thanks to their deep menus of live betting markets and alternate lines.
DraftKings consistently offers a wide range of alternate totals, letting you adjust the number up or down with corresponding odds. They also tie many player props to Over/Under markets, giving bettors more ways to build same-game parlays around scoring.
FanDuel stands out for its live totals markets, which update quickly as the game unfolds. You’ll often find multiple alternate totals available mid-game, allowing you to grab value if you think the pace of play will change.
Both sportsbooks give bettors flexibility beyond the standard total, making them strong choices if you like to mix in alt lines and prop-based Over/Under bets.
Why Do Lines Shift in Totals Betting?
Totals don’t stay fixed, as they often move when sportsbooks react to new information or heavy betting action. Oddsmakers adjust to keep lines sharp and balance risk.
Common reasons for these shifts include:
Injury news: the star quarterback or top scorer being ruled out can push the total down.
Weather updates: wind, rain, snow, or extreme heat often drive football and baseball totals lower.
Public betting trends: if most of the money is on one side, sportsbooks may move the line to balance action.
Sharp money: large wagers from respected bettors can move lines quickly and significantly.
For example, an NBA total might open at 228.5, but if a star scorer is scratched before tip-off, the line could drop to 224.5. Early bettors often target softer opening numbers, while late bettors react to confirmed injury reports and other news.
How to Calculate the Vig on Totals
Vig (short for “vigorish”) is the bookmaker’s built-in commission. On totals, it’s usually baked into the odds, with the standard -110 odds on both sides. Let’s break it down step-by-step:
1. Convert each side to implied probability: let’s say the Over/Under for an NFL game is 47.5 with -110 odds on both sides. The implied probability for both sides is calculated as such:
- Negative odds: |X|/(|X| + 100) x 100, so |-110|/(|-110|+100) x 100 = 110/210 = 52.38%
- Positive odds: |X|/(|X| + 100) x 100, so |-110|/(|-110|+100) x 100 = 110/210 = 52.38%
2. Add the probabilities together.
- 52.38% + 52.38% = 104.76%
3. Subtract 100% to find the vig percentage.
- 104.76% – 100% = 4.76% vig
Keep in mind that the vig varies by sportsbook, sport, market liquidity, and timing.
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