Over / Under

Definition

In sports betting, the over/under (also called a totals bet) is a wager on the combined total points scored by both teams in a game. The sportsbook sets a projected number, and you bet whether the actual total will go over or under that line.

They serve two main purposes:

1. Give bettors a way to wager on game flow (high-scoring vs. low-scoring) instead of picking a winner.

2. Balance action by adjusting the line to encourage betting on both sides.

Real-World Example

NFL Game: Philadelphia Eagles vs. Miami Dolphins

• Sportsbook sets the over/under at 47.5 points.

  • If the final score is Eagles 27 – Dolphins 24 (total = 51), the Over wins.

  • If the final score is Eagles 20 – Dolphins 17 (total = 37), the Under wins.