Over/Under (Totals) Betting Explained
Bet on whether the combined score of a game will go over or under a number set by the sportsbook.
A totals bet — also called an over/under — is a wager on the combined points or runs scored by both teams in a game. You’re not picking a winner. You’re predicting how the game will play out offensively.
How totals work
If the Chiefs vs. Broncos game has a total of 48.5, you can bet:
- Over 48.5 (−110): combined score must be 49 or higher
- Under 48.5 (−110): combined score must be 48 or lower
Final score 27–24? Combined 51 — Over wins. Final score 17–10? Combined 27 — Under wins.
The half-point on most totals exists for the same reason as on spreads: to eliminate pushes.
What moves a total
Sportsbooks set totals based on:
- Offense and defense rankings of both teams
- Pace of play (NBA pace, NFL plays per drive)
- Weather — wind, rain, and cold shift NFL totals significantly
- Injuries — losing a starting QB or top scorer often drops the total
- Public betting patterns — heavy money on one side moves the line
Common total ranges by sport
| Sport | Typical range |
|---|---|
| NFL | 38–55 points |
| College football | 45–75 points |
| NBA | 215–245 points |
| College basketball | 130–160 points |
| MLB | 6.5–11 runs |
| NHL | 5.5–7 goals |
| MLS / soccer | 2.0–3.5 goals |
Three angles for finding value
- Weather check (NFL). Wind over 15 mph or heavy rain consistently pushes Unders. Most public bettors don’t track weather closely.
- Pace differential (NBA). When two fast teams play, totals often go Over. When two slow teams play, Under cashes more often than the line suggests.
- Live totals. If a game starts slow but you expect a second-half explosion, live Overs are often available at attractive prices.
Combining totals with team totals
Most Missouri sportsbooks also offer team totals — wagers on a single team’s score. Example: Chiefs Over 27.5. This is useful if you’re confident in one team’s offense but unsure about the other side of the matchup.