What Is the Over Under in Sports Betting? Totals Explained

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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 wagerers choose whether the last rating will discuss (more than the posted overall) or under (less than the published overall).

It is among the most popular bet types across significant sports like the NFL, NBA, MLB, and NHL, giving fans a method to bank on the flow of the game instead of which group wins.

Totals Betting Explained

Oddsmakers set an overall by forecasting the combined score of both teams in a video game, considering offensive and defensive strength, pace of play, and recent type. Bettors then choose whether the last score will discuss or under that published number.

The guidelines are simple: if the game goes over the total, Over bets win; if it completes under, Under bets cash. Overtime counts towards the overall unless otherwise stated, which typically makes a difference in close games.

If the last combined rating lands precisely on the published number, the outcome is called a push, and all wagers are reimbursed.

How to Bet on Over/Unders

Let's discuss how to position an Over/Under wager step-by-step:

1. Open the sportsbook app and find your video game: pick the sport/league, then tap the match you desire.

2. Select the Totals (Over/Under) market: try to find "Total," "O/U," or "Over/Under." You'll see a number (e.g., 47.5) and chances for Over and Under (typically around -110). Remember: overtime usually counts toward overalls.

3. Choose Over or Under: tap the side you wish to wager on.

4. Enter your stake and examine the slip: type your quantity; the slip auto-calculates possible payout. Double-check the overall number, chances, and that you picked Over or Under properly.

5. Place the bet: confirm to send. You can track it in "Open Bets."

Example: if an NFL total is 47.5 at -110, choosing Over 47.5 methods you require 48+ combined indicate win (47 or less loses). At -110, a $100 bet returns $190.91 overall ($ 90.91 revenue) if it strikes.

It's also worth discussing that you can also bet overalls throughout the game. Lines update in real time with rate and scoring. For instance, an NBA video game opened at 212.5, however after a quick very first quarter, the live total dives to 224.5. If you believe scoring will cool down, you may take Under 224.5 at the noted live chances.

How are Over/Under Lines Set?

Oddsmakers set totals by evaluating a mix of information, match factors, and betting market trends. At the core, they look at team offensive and defensive performance, rate of play, gamer injuries, recent efficiency, and even head-to-head history.

Each sport has its own wrinkles that impact the Over/Under line:

NFL, college football: climate condition, offensive vs. protective line matches, and quarterback play.

NBA, college basketball: pace, shooting efficiency, protective rankings, and player schedule.

MLB: starting pitcher matches, bullpen fatigue, ballpark measurements, and even wind conditions.

NHL: goalie matches, current scoring type, and power play vs. penalty kill statistics.

Soccer: playing styles, development changes, importance of the match, and travel tiredness.


Finally, the marketplace itself matters. As cash is available in, particularly from sharp bettors, oddsmakers will change overalls before game time to balance action and handle danger.

Best Sportsbooks for Over/Under Betting

There are a number of sportsbook where which you can bank on the Over/Under for video games. Two of the best choices are DraftKings and FanDuel, thanks to their deep menus of live betting markets and alternate lines.

DraftKings regularly uses a wide variety of alternate overalls, letting you change the number up or down with matching odds. They also tie numerous gamer 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 upgrade quickly as the game unfolds. You'll frequently find multiple alternate totals available mid-game, allowing you to get value if you think the rate of play will alter.

Both sportsbooks give bettors flexibility beyond the basic total, making them strong options if you like to blend in alt lines and prop-based Over/Under bets.

Why Do Lines Shift in Totals Betting?

Totals don't remain fixed, as they frequently move when sportsbooks respond to new details or heavy betting action. Oddsmakers change to keep lines sharp and balance risk.

Common factors for these shifts consist of:

Injury news: the star quarterback or leading scorer being ruled out can press the overall down.

Weather updates: wind, rain, snow, or severe heat frequently drive football and baseball totals lower.

Public betting patterns: if the majority of the cash is on one side, sportsbooks might move the line to balance action.

Sharp cash: big wagers from respected gamblers can move lines rapidly and substantially.

For instance, an NBA overall may open at 228.5, but if a star scorer is scratched before tip-off, the line might drop to 224.5. Early bettors typically target softer opening numbers, while late bettors respond to validated injury reports and other news.

How to Calculate the Vig on Totals

Vig (brief for "vigorish") is the bookie's built-in commission. On totals, it's normally baked into the odds, with the standard -110 odds on both sides. Let's break it down detailed:

1. Convert each side to suggested probability: let's say the Over/Under for an NFL game is 47.5 with -110 odds on both sides. The suggested possibility 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 chances:|X |/(|X|+ 100) x 100, so|-110 |/(|-110|+100) x 100 = 110/210 = 52.38%.


2. Add the possibilities together.

52.38% + 52.38% = 104.76%.


3. Subtract 100% to find the vig percentage.

104.76% - 100% = 4.76% vig.


Bear in mind that the vig varies by sportsbook, sport, market liquidity, and timing.

Gambling disclaimer: Only individuals aged 21 and over are permitted to bet. If you or someone you understand has a betting issue and wants assistance, call 1-800-GAMBLER. Gambling goes through regional state regulation and is illegal in some states. Please gamble responsibly - info connecting to responsible gambling can be discovered here.

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