Legally regulated sportsbooks primarily focus on three main types of bets: point spreads, moneylines, and totals. These bets attract the most attention, especially during major sporting events, with a significant amount of money being wagered on the lines.

Understanding point spreads in betting may require some time, while moneyline bets are a great starting point for beginners in sports betting. Over/under bets, or totals bets, are considered to be somewhere in the middle in terms of complexity.

Both new and seasoned bettors can find something to enjoy in totals betting. The focus is on predicting the total number of points that will be scored by both teams in a game, in relation to the number set by oddsmakers.

You only need to answer one question: Will the total score surpass or fall below the specified threshold? While this may appear easy, betting on totals can be complex. However, we will give you all the necessary details to get started.

What is totals betting?

Online betting platforms offer odds on the total points teams or players will score in each listed match. These odds are determined by a preset number, allowing you to choose whether to bet on the over or under for the totals.

Hence, for an upcoming NFL game, the totals bet listing may appear like this, with odds provided for both teams.

Over 5 (-110)
Under 5 (-110)

The point bar for this match is set at 51.5. If you anticipate a score of 52 or higher, choose the over bet. But if you think the total score will be under 51, go for the under bet.

The numbers in brackets next to each number indicate the betting odds for both sides. Most online and mobile sportsbooks typically set the totals bets at -110, but the numbers can change from this initial point. The reason for this will be discussed later.

What does over/under mean in sports betting?

In betting, the terms “over/under” and “totals” are interchangeable. When placing a bet on totals, you are predicting if the final number will exceed or fall short of the specified benchmark. If someone asks about the over/under for a game, they are referring to the totals number set by the oddsmakers.

In sportsbooks, the standard game lineup includes totals bets, which are displayed next to the point spread and moneyline. These bets may be referred to as either “totals” or “over/under”, but they mean the same thing.

How to place a totals bet in Illinois

Placing a totals bet is easy. You can make this type of bet on any game in the schedule by selecting the one you want to bet on. The total can be found in the sports menu or sometimes displayed in the main sports betting lobby.

For example, if you are interested in finding out the total for an upcoming game between the Chicago Bulls and Detroit Pistons, you can easily locate the game and view the odds for the main betting options. In Illinois on DraftKings, the totals section may look something like this:

Over 5 (-110)
Under 5 (-110)

Once you’ve chosen your desired side, click on the corresponding box to add your total bet to the bet slip. Enter your wager amount, verify the details, and click submit to confirm.

Over/under betting odds explained

Many sportsbooks commonly open totals bets with both sides set at -110, but these odds can fluctuate over time. It is not uncommon to see the numbers change, especially in MLB games.

Over 5 (-115)
Under 5 (-105)

In this situation, there is a chance for a higher payout on the less popular side. What triggers this change? It is mainly driven by the betting patterns. When the majority of the public is placing bets on one side, the oddsmakers will modify the odds to level out the betting activity.

If the desired outcome is not reached, additional adjustments can be implemented. In some cases, you may notice fluctuations in the overall total, such as the runs in a MLB game going from 8.5 to 9.

One fascinating aspect of sports betting is the opportunity to compare prices by line shopping. This involves checking lines at multiple books to find the best possible option. Our live odds feed is a valuable tool for this task.

For example, consider a scenario where the total score for a game between the Chicago White Sox and Minnesota Twins is displayed on FanDuel Sportsbook as follows:

Over 5 (-109)
Under 5 (-111)

On the flip side, BetMGM has set a different total price for the same game:

Over 5 (-106)
Under 5 (-116)

The two operators on each side have a small difference. BetMGM online sportsbook offers a more appealing deal for those who favor the over compared to FanDuel. If you don’t take the time to compare, you may not even be aware of this superior offer.

Placing a $100 bet at odds of -110 could result in a profit of $90.90 after accounting for the bookmaker’s commission. It is important to shop around and compare odds at different bookmakers to ensure the best possible return on your bets.

Online totals betting rules in Illinois

Many online sportsbook operators operate in a similar fashion, with the process of placing and settling a totals bet generally being consistent within the industry. However, there may be cases where books handle bets in varying ways.

You must understand the rules for totals wagers.

• Total bets are only active after the game has begun.
• The competition ends with a resolution determined by official league statistics.
• Contests will continue to be active, even if games are delayed by weather or other factors, until they are finished.
• In the event that contests are delayed or called off, all bets will be voided and the wagered amounts will be returned.

While this applies to the majority of cases, there are occasional exceptions. To fully grasp how operators handle extreme circumstances regarding total bets, take the time to familiarize yourself with the house rules at the sportsbook.

What’s the over/under betting range by sport?

As you gain more experience in over and under betting, you will begin to identify a typical range of numbers that are specific to each sport. Use this helpful guide to help you become more comfortable with the process.

• The NFL includes players in their 30s and older, up to age 55.
• In the NBA, player heights range from the 190s to over 210.
• In MLB, the scale ranges from 7 to 9.5+.
• The average score in the NHL is 5.5, with scores typically falling between 4.5 and 6.5.
• In NCAAF, scores can range from the low 30s to over 70.
• In NCAAB, the typical range falls between 130 and 150.
• The MLS average is 2.0, with a potential range of 1.5 to 2.5 or higher.

Knowing the typical ranges is advantageous because it allows you to classify the competitions into various tiers. Within each group of games, there may be a few totals that are exceptionally high or low, while the majority fall somewhere in between.

As you gain more experience in over/under sports betting, you may find that you prefer to concentrate on contests within a specific tier.

Examples of over/under sports bets

NFL over/under betting example

Betting establishments consistently favor the NFL as the most popular option for wagering. Each football game and betting option, especially totals, garners significant interest. With the substantial amount of NFL bets placed, it is probable that there will be fluctuations on the odds board.

For example, after the Chicago Bears and Los Angeles Rams game is played, the total score might appear as follows:

Over 5 (-110)
Under 5 (-110)

Imagine you’re betting at Caesars in Illinois and keeping an eye on the numbers. As more and more bettors start leaning towards the over, the sportsbook responds by making adjustments to the odds.

Over 5 (-115)
Under 5 (-105)

The current odds are favoring the under side, which could lead to a more favorable outcome for the sportsbook.

In this scenario, bettors who wager on the over are anticipating a total of 45 points or higher. A final score of 24-21 would meet this expectation, while 23-20 would fall short. Conversely, those betting on the under are looking for a total of 44 points or lower. A score of 24-20 would be ideal for them, but 24-21 would lead to a loss.

NBA over/under betting example

NBA handicappers particularly enjoy betting on totals, as it is easy to find points in the high-scoring league. Each day, sportsbooks offer benchmark figures for every game scheduled.

For example, a game between the Houston Rockets and Los Angeles Lakers with the potential for a high score could end with the following total points:

Over 5 (-110)
Under 5 (-110)

Please note that NBA odds and totals are subject to change depending on betting patterns and any late-breaking news. The odds may shift to -112 on one side and -108 on the other, or the total could jump to 212.5.

Feel free to explore the various options available in the market. For example, a sample line of 212 points or higher, such as 112-110, is ideal for those betting on the over. Lower totals are not as favorable. Conversely, those betting on the under would prefer scores like 110-100, totaling 210 points, for a successful wager. A score like 113-111 would not result in a profitable outcome.

MLB over/under betting example

There are a plethora of betting options in the MLB, spanning from opening day to the World Series. Totals are a standout feature on the baseball betting lineup. Despite baseball scores typically being lower than those of basketball or football, it does not detract from the excitement of the game.

The totals line for a potentially high-scoring game between the Los Angeles Dodgers and Colorado Rockies might be displayed like this:

Over 5 (-110)
Under 5 (-110)

As mentioned before, you will soon get familiar with the usual range for betting on each sport. For instance, in Major League Baseball, games with a total of seven runs or fewer typically indicate a pitching battle, while games with nine runs or more may indicate a high-scoring game with strong hitters.

In this game, bettors who are wagering on the over are rooting for a combined score of 10 runs or more. They would be pleased with a final score of 6-5, but not 5-4. On the other hand, those betting on the under are hoping for a total of 9 runs or fewer. A score of 6-3 would meet their expectations, but not 7-5, as that would lead to a losing bet.

NHL over/under betting example

While hockey may not have as high scoring as other sports, it is full of action and excitement. NHL games are thrilling to watch, with many dedicated fans and bettors getting involved. Totals betting is a popular option for those looking to wager on hockey games.

Below is a potential layout of the hockey odds board for a selected NHL matchup featuring the Chicago Blackhawks and Edmonton Oilers.

Over 5 (-110)
Under 5 (-110)

In terms of total goals, the NHL stands out with a typical over/under of 5.5 for most games. Occasionally, you may see totals of 6 goals or 6-6.5, but anything outside of this range would be considered uncommon.

If you bet on the over, you hope for a high-scoring game. A final score of 6-4 would be ideal, while a low-scoring 2-1 game would not be desirable. Conversely, those who bet on the under would be happy with a 3-2 result, but disappointed by a 5-3 outcome.

Over/under betting for other sports

Total odds are offered for matches between two teams on the schedule. In addition to the sports mentioned earlier, you can also bet on the over/under for the following sports:

• NCAA football
• NCAA basketball
• MLS

In addition to over/under betting in other sports, you may find different types of betting options. Here are some examples you might encounter:

• Golf: The projected scores of golfers, either exceeding or falling short of par.
• Tennis: The anticipated total games to be played in the match.
• The estimated total of caution flags expected during the NASCAR race.
• UFC: The anticipated total rounds for the match.

The basic approach to totals betting stays the same across all sports. You simply choose whether to bet on over or under the bookmaker’s set number. While specific handicapping may differ from game to game, there are certain core principles that apply universally.

Totals handicapping tips for beginners

The main goal of investigating totals betting options is the same as with other sports bets: to find numbers that can be accurately predicted and bets that provide a significant return on investment.

Understanding the over/under bet concept is simple: review the reference number, do some research, and choose which side you think the total points will end up on. However, while this may be easy to grasp, it doesn’t guarantee easy success in cashing in on totals betting tickets.

Here are some tips to help you gain an edge when betting on totals:

• Analyzing historical data can greatly improve handicapping accuracy. Reviewing past matchups between the two teams can give valuable insight into the types of games that have taken place. While this may not predict the outcome of future games, it can provide helpful context. It is also important to assess each team’s recent performance and overall season performance.
• Understand the Factors that Can Impact Scores: Consider what elements could have a major impact on the outcome of the game. For instance, when two top defensive teams face off, it could lead to a low-scoring contest. On the other hand, a match between two teams with poor defensive capabilities could result in a high-scoring affair. Additionally, keep abreast of any news that could influence the game, such as weather conditions and injuries to key players.
• Comparing Lines and Monitoring Line Movement: Shopping around for the best line can have a big impact on totals. Sometimes, you might notice a difference of half a point or more on over/under bets. Additionally, one sportsbook may have odds of -110 for a particular side, while another book has the same side at -105. While these discrepancies may seem small, they can have a significant impact on the outcome of your bet and your overall success in the long term.

These recommendations can also be useful for individual sports. For example, in tennis, analyzing the number of games it took to finish a match between two players who have faced each other before could offer insight into what may happen in their next meeting.

Finding consistency with totals betting may take some time, but don’t get discouraged. While choosing the right side can be tough, with dedication and perseverance, you can conquer this challenge sooner rather than later.

What to remember about sports betting totals

Total betting is a popular wagering option in team sports, alongside moneylines and spreads. Additionally, totals bets can be placed on individual sports such as golf and UFC.

Oddsmakers will set a benchmark number and present bettors with two choices: over or under. Each option will have corresponding odds, which could change depending on the amount of bets placed.

Searching for betting odds can have a significant impact on this particular aspect of gambling. It is common to find small differences in the over/under or the odds themselves. Creating an effective strategy for predicting totals may take time, but the rewards can be significant.