Over/Under (Total) Bets
A total bet (also called an "over/under") is a wager on the combined points scored by both teams in a game. You bet either over the sportsbook's posted total or under it. Like spreads, totals typically pay -110 on both sides.
Worked Example
Example: Colts vs. Texans total 47.5
If you bet the over at 47.5 and the combined final score is 48 or more (e.g., 27-21 = 48), you win. If the score totals 47 or fewer, you lose. Half-point totals eliminate the possibility of a push.
When to Use Over/Under (Total) Bets
Use totals when your edge is on pace, weather, or scoring conditions rather than which team wins. Wind, defensive matchups, and travel are key factors for football totals.
Pros
- Roots for both teams to score (or not) — fun viewing experience
- Less correlated with team-specific narratives
- Weather, pace, and defensive matchup edges can be exploited
Cons
- Late-game garbage time can flip a winning under into a loss
- Standard -110 juice applies
- Public bias toward overs creates value on unders in some markets
Common Mistakes
- Always betting overs — most casual bettors lean over; sportsbooks price this in by shading totals slightly up
- Ignoring weather (especially wind for football totals)
- Forgetting backdoor scoring: garbage-time TDs and field goals push totals over more often than people expect
FAQ
Do overtime points count toward the total?
Yes. Total bets include all overtime scoring unless the sportsbook explicitly markets a "regulation only" total.