The Over/Under bet (also called Totals) is one of the most popular types of bets in American football, including the NFL and college games. Here's a detailed breakdown:
What is an Over/Under Bet?
In an Over/Under bet, a sportsbook sets a predicted total number of points scored in a game by both teams combined. You then bet on whether the actual total will be:
Over that predicted number
Under that predicted number
Example Scenario
Let’s say there’s an NFL game between the Dallas Cowboys and the Green Bay Packers.
Sportsbook’s Over/Under Line: 45.5 points
You have two options:
Bet Over 45.5: You win if the total points scored by both teams is 46 or more
Bet Under 45.5: You win if the total is 45 or fewer
Example Outcomes
Why the Half-Point (.5)?
The .5 prevents a tie or “push.” For example, if the line was 45 exactly, and the total score was 45, bets would push and you’d just get your money back.
Adding the half-point ensures a clear winner.
More Advanced Versions
1. Team Total Over/Under: Betting on the total points scored by one team only.
Example: Cowboys team total is set at 23.5. You can bet over or under that number.
2. First Half / Second Half Totals: Bet on the total score just for a half instead of the whole game.
3. Live Over/Under: As the game progresses, sportsbooks adjust the total and let you bet in real time.
Tips
High-scoring teams or poor defenses might push the total higher.
Weather (like snow or rain) and injuries can lower expected points.
Always compare lines across sportsbooks for the best value.
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