Total (Over/Under)

A total is a bet on the combined score of both teams. The sportsbook sets a number, and you bet whether the actual total will be over or under that number.

How Totals Work

If the total is set at 47.5:

The half-point (hook) eliminates pushes.

Totals vs Spreads

Many bettors specialize in one or the other.

Reading Totals

Standard notation:

• Over 47.5 (-110): Bet $110 to win $100 that combined score exceeds 47.5
• Under 47.5 (-110): Bet $110 to win $100 that combined score is 47 or less

Some books offer adjusted totals:

• Over 44.5 (-150): Lower total, pay more vig for easier win
• Over 50.5 (+130): Higher total, get plus-money for harder win

Factors Affecting Totals

Weather is particularly impactful. Wind over 15mph significantly affects passing and kicking.

Public Bias on Totals

Recreational bettors tend to bet overs:

• "Rooting for points is more fun"
• "Good offenses" get more attention than good defenses
• Prime time games expected to be shootouts

This creates potential value on unders, though the edge has compressed over time.

Totals in Live Betting

Live totals adjust based on:

• Current score
• Time remaining
• Game pace so far
• Possession and field position

First-half totals and live totals can offer opportunities when books are slow to adjust.

Related Terms

• Hook — The half-point preventing pushes on totals
• Spread — Betting on margin rather than combined score
• Fading — Contrarian betting on unders vs public