How totals work
If a sportsbook posts the total at 47.5 for an NFL game, "over 47.5" wins if the combined score is 48 or more. "Under 47.5" wins if it's 47 or fewer.
What drives totals
Pace of play, weather, key injuries, motivation. NBA totals respond to pace; MLB totals respond to wind and pitching matchups; NHL totals respond to goaltending; NFL totals respond to weather and key offensive injuries.
Totals strategy
Look for spots where pace will be unusually high or low — back-to-back fatigue, must-win playoff games, weather extremes. Avoid betting totals on games where you're uncertain about both teams.
FAQ
What is a Total (Over/Under) Bet?
A total bet wagers on whether the combined points/runs/goals scored by both teams will exceed (over) or fall short of (under) a number set by the sportsbook.
Where can I place this bet?
Most major US sportsbooks offer this bet type. Our top picks: DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM.