Over/Under Betting: A Beginner's Guide to Betting on Totals

If you're looking to spice up your sports betting experience, Over/Under betting (also known as totals betting) is one of the most exciting and popular ways to wager. Whether you're into the NFL, NBA, MLB, or any other major sport, Over/Under bets allow you to focus on the total points, runs, or goals scored in a game rather than picking a winner. Here’s a complete guide on how Over/Under betting works, with examples from top sports leagues.

What is Over/Under Betting?

In Over/Under betting, you place a wager on whether the combined score of both teams in a game will be over or under a total number set by the oddsmakers.

• Bet the Over: If you think the total score will be higher than the oddsmaker’s set total, you bet the Over.
• Bet the Under: If you believe the score will be lower, you bet the Under.

Over/Under betting is available across most sports and is especially popular in NFL betting, NBA betting, MLB betting, and NCAA basketball. It’s a great way to get involved in sports betting without worrying about which team will win the game.

How Does Over/Under Betting Work?

To place a bet, you’ll first need to look at the total set by the sportsbook for a game. For example, let’s take a look at a Super Bowl bet:

Example: Super Bowl LIV
In the 2020 Super Bowl LIV, the total was set at 53 points. This means bettors had to decide whether the combined points scored by the Kansas City Chiefs and the San Francisco 49ers would be over or under 53.

• Bet the Over: If you think the total points will be higher than 53.
• Bet the Under: If you think the total points will be less than 53.

The final score was Kansas City 31, San Francisco 20, with a combined total of 51 points, meaning the Under bet would have won.

How to Bet on Over/Under Totals

Here’s a step-by-step guide to placing your Over/Under Bet:

1. Check the Total: Oddsmakers will set a total score for the game. You need to decide if the total score will be higher (Over) or lower (Under) than the set number.
2. Understand the Vig: Most Over/Under bets have a vig (or juice) of -110 on each side. This means that for every $110 you bet, you stand to win $100. Understanding the vig is crucial for determining your potential payout.
3. Watch the Line Movement: Over/Under totals can move as more bets are placed, so it’s important to keep an eye on the line to get the best odds before they change.

Examples of Over/Under Betting in Different Sports

NBA Over/Under Example

In NBA betting, an Over/Under total could be set for a game between the Los Angeles Lakers and Los Angeles Clippers. If the total is set at 222.5 points:

• Bet the Over: You predict the total points scored will be 223 or more.
• Bet the Under: You predict the total points scored will be 222 or fewer.

The use of half-points ensures there’s no possibility of a push, meaning your bet will always win or lose.

MLB Over/Under Example

In MLB betting, let’s look at a game between the Washington Nationals and the Los Angeles Dodgers. The Over/Under total is set at 7.5 runs:

• Bet the Over: You predict 8 or more total runs will be scored.
• Bet the Under: You predict 7 or fewer total runs.

You’ll also notice different vigs—maybe the Over has a vig of -120, while the Under is +100. The Under bet, in this case, has a better payout, as it’s paying even money.

What Are the Payouts for Over/Under Bets?

Most Over/Under bets have a vig of -110. That means to win $100, you would need to bet $110. If the vig is adjusted (for example, if more money is wagered on one side), the payout can change, so always check the vig before placing your bet.

How Are Over/Under Totals Set?

Oddsmakers take several factors into account when setting the Over/Under totals:

• Team Stats: Offensive and defensive capabilities of the teams.
• Weather: Outdoor sports like NFL or MLB can be influenced by weather conditions such as wind or rain.
• Injuries: Missing key players can affect a team’s performance and the total score.
• Home vs. Away: Teams often play differently at home than on the road.
• Public Betting Trends: If a lot of money is being bet on one side, sportsbooks might adjust the total to balance the bets and ensure a profit.

Use Our Over/Under Betting Calculator

Want to know exactly how much you can win from an Over/Under bet? Use our Over/Under betting calculator to easily determine your potential payout based on your wager and the odds.

Why Over/Under Betting is Popular

Over/Under betting is popular because it’s simple and doesn't require you to predict the outcome of the game itself. Instead, you focus on the total points, runs, or goals scored, which adds an extra layer of excitement to the game. Plus, it’s available in a wide range of sports, including NFL, NBA, MLB, NCAA basketball, and more.

Final Thoughts on Over/Under Betting

Whether you’re new to sports betting or a seasoned pro, Over/Under betting is a great option to consider. By focusing on the total score rather than picking a winner, you can enjoy a different aspect of the game and increase your chances of success. Just make sure you understand the vig, watch the line movements, and consider factors like injuries and weather before placing your bet.

So, whether you’re betting on the NFL playoffs, the NBA Finals, or a regular-season MLB game, Over/Under betting is an exciting and potentially profitable way to get involved in sports wagering.