Over Under Betting: Complete Guide to Totals, Strategy & Calculator (2025)

Over/under betting—also called totals betting—is one of the simplest and most popular ways to bet on sports. Instead of picking which team will win, you're betting on whether the combined score of both teams will be over or under a number set by the sportsbook.

This guide covers everything you need to know: how totals work, real examples, odds and payouts, beginner-friendly strategy, our free over/under calculator, sport-specific tips for NFL, NBA, MLB and more, plus responsible gambling guidance. Whether you're placing your first totals bet or looking to sharpen your approach, this page gives you a clear, honest foundation.

Last updated: January 2025 Reading time: 12 minutes

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Quick Navigation

• What Is Over Under Betting?
• How Over/Under Bets Work
• Odds, Vig & Payouts
• Over/Under Calculator
• Betting Strategy
• Sport-Specific Examples
• Advanced Concepts
• Common Mistakes
• Best Sportsbooks
• FAQs

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What Is Over Under Betting?

Over/under betting is a wager on the total combined score of both teams in a game. The sportsbook sets a line—for example, 47.5 points in an NFL game—and you bet whether the actual score will be over or under that number.

Simple Definition

Over/under betting means you're predicting if the combined points, runs, or goals scored by both teams will be higher (over) or lower (under) than the sportsbook's total.

You're not picking a winner. You're betting on how much scoring happens in the game, regardless of who wins.

Basic Examples with Scorelines

NFL Example:

• Total line: 47.5 points
• Final score: Kansas City 27, Buffalo 24
• Combined total: 51 points
• Result: Over wins

NBA Example:

• Total line: 215.5 points
• Final score: Lakers 108, Celtics 104
• Combined total: 212 points
• Result: Under wins

Here's a simple breakdown:

Market	Line	Final Score	Total Points	Outcome
NFL Game Total	47.5	27-24	51	Over wins
NBA Game Total	215.5	108-104	212	Under wins
MLB Game Total	8.5 runs	5-2	7 runs	Under wins

Push Scenarios and the Hook

A push happens when the final total lands exactly on the line. For example:

• Line: 44.0 points
• Final score: 27-17 (44 total)
• Result: Push—your stake is refunded

To avoid pushes, sportsbooks usually set totals with a half-point (like 47.5 or 44.5). This is called the hook, and it guarantees there will always be a winner and a loser.

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How Over/Under Bets Work

Understanding how totals bets are structured, graded, and offered across different markets helps you bet smarter.

Components of an Over/Under Line

Every totals market includes:

• Total points/runs/goals: The number you're betting over or under
• Odds price: Usually -110 on both sides (you risk $110 to win $100)
• Over/Under options: Two choices—take the over or the under

Markets can be:

• Full game totals (most common)
• First half / second half totals
• Quarter totals (NFL, NBA)
• Period totals (NHL)
• Inning totals (MLB)

Does Over/Under Include Overtime?

Yes, in most major US sports. Full-game totals typically include overtime and extra innings:

• NFL: Overtime counts
• NBA: Overtime counts
• NHL: Overtime and shootouts count
• MLB: Extra innings count
• College football/basketball: Overtime counts

Exception: Some soccer markets exclude extra time. Always check the sportsbook's house rules before betting.

Team Totals vs Game Totals

• Game totals: Combined score of both teams
• Team totals: Just one team's score

Example:

• Game total: 47.5
• Patriots team total: 24.5

You might bet the under on the game total but over on the Patriots team total if you think it'll be a lower-scoring game where the Patriots get most of the points.

Some states restrict team totals or college player props—check your local laws.

3-Way Totals

Some books offer 3-way totals where you can bet:

• Over
• Under
• Exactly the total

Odds differ because there's a third outcome. These are less common but appear in soccer and international markets.

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Over/Under Odds, Vig & Payouts

Understanding how to read totals odds, calculate payouts, and recognize the sportsbook's edge is crucial for long-term success.

Reading Over/Under Odds

Most totals are priced at -110 on both sides:

• Over 47.5 (-110)
• Under 47.5 (-110)

This means you risk $110 to win $100, or risk $11 to win $10.

Sometimes odds shift:

• Over 47.5 (-105) / Under 47.5 (-115)
• Over 47.5 (+100) / Under 47.5 (-120)

The number in parentheses is American odds:

• Negative (-110): How much you risk to win $100
• Positive (+100): How much you win if you risk $100

Implied probability formula:

• For negative odds: |Odds| / (|Odds| + 100)
• For -110: 110 / 210 = 52.4%

What Is Vig (Juice) on Totals?

Vig (or juice) is the sportsbook's built-in commission. When both sides are -110, the book collects 52.4% + 52.4% = 104.8% total probability, meaning they keep about 4.8% as their edge.

Here's how vig affects you over time:

Odds	Break-Even Win Rate	Vig Impact
-110 (standard)	52.4%	~4.8% hold
-105 (reduced vig)	51.2%	~2.4% hold
-115 (high vig)	53.5%	~7% hold

Lower vig = better for you. Shopping for -105 instead of -115 can make a huge difference over hundreds of bets.

Over/Under Betting Calculator

Our Over/Under Calculator helps you quickly calculate:

• Potential profit and total payout
• Implied probability
• Break-even win rate
• Expected value (EV) if you enter your own probability

Worked Examples

Example 1: NFL Over 47.5 at -110, $50 stake

• Risk: $50
• To win: $45.45
• Total payout if you win: $95.45
• Implied probability: 52.4%

Example 2: NBA Under 223.5 at +105, $20 stake

• Risk: $20
• To win: $21
• Total payout if you win: $41
• Implied probability: 48.8%

Try these examples in the calculator above to see the math in action.

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Over/Under Betting Strategy

Successful totals betting isn't about guessing—it's about understanding the factors that influence scoring and finding value in the lines.

Key Factors That Move Totals

When evaluating a totals bet, consider:

Pace and tempo:

• Faster teams = more possessions = more scoring (NBA, college basketball)
• Run-heavy NFL teams slow the game down

Offensive and defensive efficiency:

• High-powered offenses vs weak defenses push totals up
• Elite defenses suppress scoring

Injuries:

• Star QB/scorer out = lower total
• Key defensive injuries = higher total

Weather:

• Wind, rain, cold in outdoor NFL games usually favor unders
• Dome games and warm weather favor overs

Officiating trends:

• Some ref crews call more fouls (NBA) or penalties (NFL), affecting pace

Understanding Key Numbers in Totals

While spreads have sharp key numbers (3, 7 in NFL), totals have clusters around common scores:

NFL common totals:

• 41, 44, 47, 50 (typical ranges)
• Half-points near these numbers matter less than with spreads

NBA:

• Totals range widely (210-240+)
• Pace-dependent, less rigid key numbers

MLB:

• Common totals: 7.5, 8.5, 9.5 runs
• Pitcher quality drives the line

Buying a half-point on totals (e.g., moving from 47 to 47.5) typically costs -120 or worse. Only worth it if you're crossing a meaningful threshold.

Line Movement and Closing Line Value

The opening line is the sportsbook's first estimate. The closing line is the final number before game time.

Why line movement matters:

• Sharp bettors bet early, moving lines toward the "true" number
• Public money often comes in late, sometimes creating value on the other side

Closing Line Value (CLV):

• If you bet Over 47 and the line closes at 48.5, you beat the close by 1.5 points
• Consistently beating the closing line is a strong indicator of long-term profitability

Track your CLV over time. If you're regularly on the wrong side of line movement, adjust your approach.

Bankroll Management for Totals

Simple staking framework:

• Bet 1-2% of your bankroll per wager
• Never bet more than 5% on any single totals bet, no matter how confident you feel
• Avoid martingale (doubling bets after losses)
• Track every bet in a spreadsheet or betting app

Example:

• Bankroll: $1,000
• Recommended bet size: $10-$20 per totals bet
• Never chase losses by increasing stake size

For more on developing a complete strategy, see our Over/Under Betting Strategy Guide.

For a deeper look at reading odds formats, check out How to Read Over/Under Odds.

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Sport-Specific Over/Under Examples

Totals betting varies significantly across sports. Here's how to approach the most popular leagues.

NFL Totals in Practice

Typical NFL totals: 41-50 points

Key factors:

• Weather: Wind over 15 mph and rain significantly lower totals
• Outdoor vs dome: Dome games average 2-3 points higher
• Divisional games: Often lower-scoring due to familiarity
• Playoff games: Tend toward unders (tighter defenses, conservative play-calling)

Example:

• Matchup: Bills at Chiefs, December outdoor game
• Opening total: 48.5
• Forecast: 20 mph wind, 25°F
• Adjusted expectation: Under likely has value

NBA Totals in Practice

Typical NBA totals: 210-240 points

Key factors:

• Pace: Teams like the Warriors and Pacers play fast (higher totals)
• Rest and schedule: Back-to-back games often go under
• Defensive matchups: Elite rim protectors (Gobert, Adebayo) suppress scoring
• Home/away splits: Some teams score 5-10 more PPG at home

Example:

• Matchup: Lakers at Bucks
• Both teams rested, both top-10 pace
• Total: 228.5
• Consideration: Over might have value if both teams push tempo

MLB Over/Under Betting

Typical MLB totals: 7.5-9.5 runs

Key factors:

• Starting pitchers: Aces (deGrom, Ohtani) lower totals by 1-2 runs
• Bullpen quality: Weak bullpens push totals higher in late innings
• Park factors: Coors Field (COL) inflates totals; Oracle Park (SF) suppresses them
• Weather: Wind blowing out = higher totals; wind in = lower

Example:

• Matchup: Rockies vs Dodgers at Coors Field
• Two average pitchers, thin air, warm weather
• Total: 11.5
• Consideration: Still might be value on the over in Denver

NHL and College Totals

NHL:

• Typical totals: 5.5-6.5 goals
• Goaltending is king—elite goalies can single-handedly push unders
• Lower-scoring sport = higher variance per goal

College Football (NCAAF) and Basketball (NCAAB):

• Wide variance in talent levels
• Totals can range from 45-75+ in NCAAF, 130-160+ in NCAAB
• Be cautious: some states restrict college player props and team totals

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Advanced Over/Under Concepts

Once you understand the basics, these advanced markets and strategies can open new opportunities—but they also carry higher risk.

Alternative Totals and Buying/Selling Points

Alternative totals let you move the line in your favor at adjusted odds:

• Standard: Over 47.5 (-110)
• Alt over 45.5 (-150)
• Alt over 49.5 (+110)

When it makes sense:

• Crossing a key threshold (e.g., moving from 47 to 48 in NFL might not matter, but 50 to 51 could)
• You have a strong conviction and want to reduce variance

When it doesn't:

• Paying -150 for 2 extra points on a total rarely offers long-term value
• The extra vig eats into your edge

Team Totals and Derivative Markets

Team totals isolate one team's scoring:

• Patriots team total: 24.5
• You can bet over/under without caring about the opponent's score

When to use team totals:

• You have strong opinions on one offense or defense but not both
• Injuries or weather affect one side more

Derivative markets:

• First half totals
• Quarter totals (NFL, NBA)
• Highest-scoring half
• Will the game go to overtime? (Yes/No total prop)

Using Totals in Same Game Parlays

Same Game Parlays (SGPs) let you combine multiple bets from one game:

• Over 47.5 + Chiefs -3.5 + Mahomes over 1.5 TD passes

Correlation concept:

• Over + favorite often correlates (high-scoring game favors the better team)
• Under + underdog can correlate (low-scoring, defensive slugfest)

Why SGPs are high-risk:

• Sportsbooks adjust odds heavily for correlation
• The vig on SGPs is often 15-25%, much higher than single bets
• They're designed to be fun, not profitable

Only use small stakes on SGPs. They're entertainment, not a core strategy.

For more on SGPs, see our Same Game Parlay Strategy Guide.

Live Betting Totals and Micro-Betting

Live totals adjust in real-time as the game unfolds:

• Halftime NFL total might shift from 47.5 to 51.5 if the first half went over
• You can bet on totals for the rest of the game

Micro-betting totals:

• Next drive total points (NFL)
• Next inning total runs (MLB)
• Next quarter total (NBA)

Opportunities:

• Sharp bettors can exploit slow line adjustments after key injuries or momentum swings

Risks:

• Decisions must be made in seconds
• Emotional betting and chasing losses are common
• Vig is often higher on live markets

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Common Over/Under Mistakes to Avoid

Even experienced bettors fall into these traps. Recognizing them helps you bet smarter.

Overreacting to Small Sample Trends

Mistake: "This team's last 5 games went over, so I'm hammering the over."

Why it's wrong: Five games is a tiny sample. Variance and random luck play huge roles. The market likely already priced in recent trends.

How to avoid: Look at full-season data, opponent adjustments, and context (strength of competition, injuries, weather).

Ignoring Vig and Line Shopping

Mistake: Always betting at -110 without checking other sportsbooks.

Why it's wrong: One book might offer Over 47.5 (-105), another offers (-115). Over hundreds of bets, that difference costs you thousands.

How to avoid: Have accounts at 3-5 legal sportsbooks. Always line shop before placing a bet. Use odds comparison tools.

Over-Stacking SGP Legs Around Totals

Mistake: Building 6-leg SGPs with over + favorite + multiple overs on player props.

Why it's wrong: Every added leg increases the sportsbook's edge. 6-leg parlays have terrible expected value, even if they feel fun.

How to avoid: Keep SGPs to 2-3 legs max. Treat them as entertainment, not serious betting strategy.

Treating Live Betting as a Way to Chase Losses

Mistake: You lose a pregame bet, so you frantically bet live totals to "get even."

Why it's wrong: Emotional decisions, rushed analysis, and higher vig combine to drain your bankroll faster.

How to avoid: Set a daily loss limit. If you hit it, walk away. Live betting should be planned, not reactive.

Misunderstanding Overtime Rules and Push Scenarios

Mistake: Betting totals without knowing if overtime counts, or not realizing a whole-number line (47.0) can push.

Why it's wrong: You might think you won, only to get your stake refunded (push), or lose because overtime counted.

How to avoid: Always check house rules. Prefer half-point lines (.5) to avoid pushes.

For a complete breakdown, read Common Over/Under Betting Mistakes.

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Best Sportsbooks for Over/Under Betting

The best sportsbook for totals offers competitive vig, deep alt totals markets, live betting tools, and strong responsible gambling features.

How to Evaluate a Book for Totals

Look for:

• Low vig on main totals: -105 or better
• Depth of alt totals: Can you buy/sell multiple points?
• Live totals UX: Fast updates, mobile-friendly interface
• Cash-out options: Can you settle totals bets early?
• RG tools: Deposit limits, time-outs, self-exclusion

Sportsbook Comparison

Sportsbook	Typical Vig on Totals	Alt Totals Depth	Live Totals UX	RG Tools
DraftKings	Medium (-110 standard)	Deep	Strong	Strong
FanDuel	Medium (-110 standard)	Deep	Strong	Strong
BetMGM	Medium (-110 standard)	Medium	Medium	Strong
Caesars	Low (-105 promos)	Deep	Strong	Medium

Affiliate disclosure: We may earn a commission if you sign up through our links. Our recommendations are based on legal status, pricing, and responsible gambling tools, not commission alone.

Line Shopping Is Essential

No single book always has the best line. Check 3-5 sportsbooks before betting:

• One book: Over 47.5 (-110)
• Another book: Over 47.5 (-105)
• Best book: Over 47 (-110)

Getting 47 instead of 47.5 at the same price, or -105 instead of -110, adds up to significant value over time.

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Over/Under Betting FAQs

What is over/under betting in sports?

Over/under betting is a wager on whether the total combined score of both teams will be over or under a line set by the sportsbook. You're not picking a winner—just whether the game will be high-scoring or low-scoring.

How do over/under bets pay out?

Standard totals pay at -110 odds, meaning you risk $110 to win $100. If you bet $50 at -110 and win, you receive $95.45 total (your $50 stake + $45.45 profit).

What happens if the over/under is exactly the final score?

If the total lands exactly on the line (e.g., line is 44.0 and the score is 27-17 for 44 total), the bet is a push. Your stake is refunded, and no one wins or loses. Most books use half-point lines (.5) to avoid pushes.

Do over/under bets include overtime?

Yes, in most major sports. NFL, NBA, NHL, and MLB totals include overtime and extra innings. Some soccer markets exclude extra time—always check house rules before betting.

Is it better to bet the over or the under?

There's no universal answer. In some sports like NFL, public bettors lean toward overs, which can create value on unders. The "better" bet depends on your analysis of pace, weather, injuries, and line value—not a blanket rule.

How does weather affect NFL totals?

Wind (15+ mph) and rain tend to lower totals, especially for pass-heavy offenses. Extreme cold can numb hands and reduce scoring. Dome games eliminate weather, so totals are often 2-3 points higher indoors.

Can I include over/under in a Same Game Parlay?

Yes. You can combine totals with spreads, moneylines, and player props in a Same Game Parlay (SGP). Be aware that sportsbooks adjust odds for correlation, and SGPs carry much higher vig than single bets.

Are college over/under bets legal in my state?

It depends. Most states allow college totals, but some restrict college player props or team totals (e.g., certain markets in New York, Illinois). Check your state's laws and your sportsbook's available markets.

What's the difference between over/under and point spread bets?

• Over/under: You bet on total combined scoring (high or low)
• Point spread: You bet on the margin of victory (which team covers the spread)

Both are popular, but they measure different things. Learn more in our Over/Under vs Spread Guide.

How can I tell if an over/under bet is +EV?

Use our Over/Under Calculator to calculate implied probability, then compare it to your own projection. If your true probability is higher than the implied probability, the bet may be +EV (positive expected value). Remember: +EV doesn't guarantee a win on any single bet.

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Responsible Gambling and Legal Notes

Sports betting is legal for adults 21+ in regulated states, but it involves real financial risk. No strategy, calculator, or system guarantees profit. Bets should be treated as entertainment, not a way to make money.

Setting Limits and Managing Bankroll

• Only bet money you can afford to lose
• Set deposit and loss limits in your sportsbook account
• Stick to 1-2% of your bankroll per bet
• Track your bets in a spreadsheet to see long-term results

Signs of Problem Gambling and Where to Get Help

If sports betting stops being fun, or if you find yourself chasing losses, betting more than you can afford, or hiding your betting from loved ones, reach out for help:

National Problem Gambling Helpline: 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537)

State Resources: Many states offer local counseling and support services. Visit your state's responsible gambling page for details.

Self-Exclusion Programs: All legal US sportsbooks offer self-exclusion, allowing you to block yourself from betting for a set period (months or years).

For more support and resources, see our Problem Gambling Help Guide.

Legal and Age Restrictions

• You must be 21 or older in most US states
• Online sports betting is only legal in certain states (as of 2025: NJ, PA, CO, MI, VA, AZ, and many more—check current laws)
• Some states restrict college totals or player props
• Always verify that the sportsbook is licensed in your state

This article provides educational information only. It does not constitute financial, legal, or gambling advice. Betting laws vary by jurisdiction. Check local regulations before placing any wager.

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Summary

Over/under betting is straightforward: you're betting on total scoring, not winners. Start by understanding how totals work, how to read odds, and how to calculate payouts. Use our free calculator to check break-even percentages and expected value.

Focus on factors that drive scoring—pace, weather, injuries, and matchups. Line shop across multiple sportsbooks to get the best price. Manage your bankroll with discipline, and avoid emotional chasing or over-stacking SGPs.

Whether you're betting NFL totals in November, NBA pace plays in January, or MLB park factors in July, the fundamentals stay the same: find value, respect the vig, and bet responsibly.

Next steps:

• Use the Over/Under Calculator before your next bet
• Read the Over/Under Betting Strategy Guide for deeper tactics
• Compare Over/Under vs Spread to decide which bet type fits your style
• Check out Common Over/Under Mistakes to avoid costly errors

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Disclaimer: This content is for informational and educational purposes only. OddsIndex does not provide gambling, financial, or legal advice. Always gamble responsibly and within your means. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call 1-800-GAMBLER.