What is an Over Under Bet? Totals, Odds, How To

What is an Over Under Bet?

Over under bets, also known as totals, are a popular type of sports betting where the wager is placed on the total combined score of both teams in a particular game.

The objective of the bettor is to predict whether the final score of the game will be over or under the predetermined number set by the bookmaker. Over under bets are commonly offered in sports like basketball, football, baseball, and hockey.

The bookmaker will set the total number for the bet based on various factors such as the strength of the teams, past performance, and the venue. Bettors can then place their bets on whether the total score will be over or under the set number. If the final score matches the predetermined number, then the bet is considered a push or a tie, and the wager is refunded.

Over under bets provide an exciting way for sports fans to engage with their favorite teams and games and can add an extra level of excitement to the viewing experience.

What are Totals Bets? Are They Different?

Totals bets and over under bets are the same thing, just with different names. They both refer to a type of sports betting where the wager is placed on the total combined score of both teams in a particular game. The objective is to predict whether the final score of the game will be over or under the predetermined number set by the bookmaker.

While the terms "totals" and "over under" are often used interchangeably, the latter is more commonly used in North America, while the former is more commonly used in Europe and other parts of the world. Regardless of the name, the concept remains the same, and it's a popular and exciting way for sports fans to engage with their favorite teams and games.

How to Read Over Under Odds

Over under odds can be presented in different formats, such as decimal, fractional, or American odds.

Let's take an example of a football game, where the bookmaker has set the total number for the bet at 47.5 points, and the odds for the over and under bets are:

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

In this case, the odds of -110 for both the over and under bets indicate that you would need to bet $110 to win $100 if you are correct. If you bet on the over, and the final score of the game is 48 points or higher, you win the bet. If you bet on the under, and the final score of the game is 47 points or lower, you win the bet.

Types of Over Under Bets

The most common types of over under bets are based on the total points or goals scored in a game, and they can be found in a variety of sports, including football, basketball, baseball, and hockey. Here are some of the most common types of over under bets:

1. Total Points: This is the most basic type of over under bet, where the bookmaker sets a predetermined number for the total combined points or goals scored by both teams in a particular game.
2. Half-Time Over Under: This type of bet focuses on the total combined points or goals scored in the first half of the game.
3. Team Total: This type of bet focuses on the total combined points or goals scored by a specific team in a particular game.
4. Season Totals: This type of bet focuses on the total number of points or goals scored by a team or player over the course of an entire season.

These are just a few examples of the most common types of over under bets, but there are many other variations available, depending on the sport and the bookmaker. It's important to carefully consider the specific factors that could impact the outcome of the bet when placing your wager, and to always gamble responsibly.

Over Unders in Prop Bets

Over unders are commonly included in prop bets, which are bets that are focused on specific events or occurrences within a game or match.

For example, in a basketball game, a prop bet could be placed on the number of points scored by a particular player. The over under bet would be placed on whether the player's total points will be over or under the predetermined number set by the bookmaker.

Prop bets with over under options can be found in a wide range of sports, including football, basketball, baseball, and hockey. The bookmaker sets the total number for the prop bet based on various factors, such as the player's past performance and the opponent's defense. Bettors can then place their bets on whether the final score of the player in question will be over or under the set number.

As with regular over under bets, prop bets with over under options provide an exciting way for sports fans to engage with their favorite teams and games, and can add an extra level of excitement to the viewing experience.

Over Unders in Parlays

Over unders can also be included in parlays, which are bets that combine multiple wagers into a single bet. In a parlay bet, each individual bet, including the over under bet, must be correctly predicted in order to win the bet.

For example, let's say you want to place a parlay bet on a football game with an over under set at 50.5 points, and two additional bets on the game winner and point spread. If you bet on the over, and the final score of the game is 51 points or higher, and you also correctly predict the game winner and point spread, you win the parlay bet. However, if you incorrectly predict any one of the individual bets, including the over under bet, you lose the entire parlay bet.

Parlay bets can offer higher payouts than individual bets, but they also come with increased risk, as each individual bet must be correctly predicted in order to win. As with any type of sports betting, it's important to carefully analyze the factors that could impact the outcome of the bets and make informed decisions when placing your wagers.

The Push and Over Under Betting

In over under betting, a push occurs when the final score of the game lands on the exact number set by the bookmaker for the over under bet. When a push occurs, it means that neither the over nor the under bet has won or lost, and the original wager is returned to the bettor. Essentially, a push results in a tie for the over under bet.

For example, if the bookmaker sets the over under number for a basketball game at 200 points, and the final score of the game is exactly 200 points, then the over under bet is considered a push. The wager is refunded, and no money is won or lost on the bet.

Pushes are an important consideration when placing over under bets, as they can impact the final outcome of the wager. Bettors should always be aware of the possibility of a push and consider it in their betting strategy.

What Does 0.5 Mean in a Total?

In over under betting, the number 0.5 (referred to as the “hook”) is often used to ensure that a clear outcome is achieved for the bet. The addition of 0.5 to the over under number means that the final score of the game must exceed the set number by at least half a point in order for the over bet to win.

For example, if the bookmaker sets the over under number for a basketball game at 200.5 points, then the over bet will win if the final score of the game is 201 points or higher. If the final score of the game is exactly 200 points or lower, then the under bet will win. This is because the half-point ensures that there will be no tie or push outcomes.

The use of 0.5 in over under betting is a common practice among bookmakers and is designed to provide clear-cut outcomes for bets, avoiding the possibility of a push or tie.

How To Place an Over Under Bet

To place an over under bet, follow these steps:

1. Choose a sportsbook or online betting site: You will need to select a reputable sportsbook or online betting site that offers over under bets for the sport or event you are interested in.
2. Find the over under bet: Once you have selected your sportsbook or betting site, navigate to the section that lists the available betting options for the particular game or event you are interested in. Look for the over under bet and the corresponding number set by the bookmaker.
3. Decide on the over or under bet: Decide whether you think the total combined points or goals scored in the game will be over or under the number set by the bookmaker.
4. Place your wager: Enter the amount you wish to bet and confirm your selection. Your bet will be confirmed, and your account balance will be updated accordingly.
5. Monitor the game: Once your bet has been placed, monitor the game and keep track of the score to see if you have won or lost your bet.

Over Under Bet Strategies

Here are a few over under betting strategies that you can consider:

1. Analyze the teams: Before placing your bet, analyze the teams and their recent performance. Look at their scoring patterns, their defense, and other key factors that could impact the final score of the game.
2. Consider the weather and playing conditions: Weather and playing conditions can play a significant role in the final score of the game. For example, a wet field may impact a team's ability to score, while high winds may make it harder to complete passes or shoot accurately. Consider these factors when placing your bet.
3. Look for line movement: Keep an eye on the betting lines and look for movement. If the betting line moves significantly in one direction or another, it could indicate that sharp bettors or bookmakers have changed their position on the game.
4. Watch for key injuries: Injuries can have a significant impact on a team's ability to score or defend, so be sure to check the injury report before placing your bet.
5. Consider the pace of play: Some teams play at a faster pace than others, which can impact the number of scoring opportunities in the game. Look at the pace of play for both teams when placing your bet.
6. Bet selectively: Don't place too many over under bets, as this can spread your bankroll too thin. Instead, choose your spots carefully and focus on games or events where you have a high degree of confidence in your analysis.

Remember, there is no one-size-fits-all strategy for over under betting, and success requires careful analysis and a willingness to adapt as new information becomes available.