What is a Total (Over/Under)?

Betting on Combined Scores

A total bet (also called an over/under) is a wager on the combined score of both teams in a game. The sportsbook sets a number, and you decide whether the actual combined score will go over or under that amount. You are not predicting a winner, just whether the game will be high-scoring or low-scoring.

How Over/Under Bets Work

Suppose a basketball game has a total set at 215.5 points. If you bet the over, the two teams need to combine for 216 or more points for your bet to win. If you bet the under, the combined score must be 215 or fewer. The half-point ensures there is no push.

When the total is a whole number (like 50 in football), and the final combined score lands exactly on that number, the bet pushes and your money is returned.

What Factors Influence Totals?

  • Pace and style of play: Fast-paced, offense-heavy teams drive totals higher. Defensive, grind-it-out teams push them lower.
  • Weather conditions: Wind, rain, and cold can suppress scoring in outdoor sports like football. A game played in heavy wind is much more likely to go under.
  • Injuries: Missing a star quarterback or pitcher can dramatically shift a total.
  • Pitching matchups (baseball): Two elite starters will typically mean a lower total, while two struggling pitchers drive the number up.

Does Overtime Count?

Yes, in almost every case overtime scoring counts toward the total. The only exception is when you are betting on a specific period (first half, specific quarter). Full-game totals include all overtime periods, which can be a factor when deciding between over and under.

Over/Under Strategy

  • Unders hit slightly more often: Public bettors tend to favor overs because rooting for points is more exciting. This bias can inflate totals, creating value on the under side.
  • Watch for early-season adjustments: Totals can be mispriced at the start of a season before trends are established. New rules, roster changes, and coaching adjustments take time to be reflected in the lines.
  • Monitor weather forecasts: For outdoor sports, checking wind and precipitation before placing a total bet can give you a meaningful edge.

PowerPicks tracks totals across all sportsbooks and highlights opportunities where the combined score projections may be mispriced.