If you are new to sports betting, it can be a bit overwhelming at first. There are several different potential markets to bet for each game, such as point spread, moneyline, or total.
For this article, we are going to be focusing on the total.
Over/Under Betting Explained
An over/under bet is determined by the total points/runs/goals scored by both teams in a game. The bettor selects either the "over" option (predicting more total points/runs/goals) or the "under" option (predicting fewer total points/runs/goals) compared to the specified game value.
Example: New York and Boston have a total of 9.5 runs scored in a baseball game. If you select the over, the combined score must equal 10 or greater for a winning wager. If you select the under, the final score, including any extra innings played, must be nine or fewer Over/under wagers are also generally made at 11/10 odds (risking $11 to profit $10).
What if the set total is a whole number?
Total betting lines are in constant flux, making it possible for them to align with whole numbers. This situation can lead to a "push" scenario, where your bet neither wins nor loses due to the final score precisely matching the set number.
For instance, take a football game pitting New Orleans against Denver with a total of 54 points. Should the game conclude with a score of 34-20, it would result in a push, as the total points add up exactly to 54. In such cases, the sportsbook you placed your bet with would reimburse your wager, regardless of whether you picked "under" or "over" for this particular match.
Consequently, some bettors might perceive a strategic advantage in placing wagers on totals set as whole numbers instead of those with decimal increments (like .5). This approach provides an additional layer of security, minimizing the risk of losing your bet entirely.
What if the game goes to Overtime?
Your wager remains unaffected even if the game enters overtime. Over/Under betting operates similarly to any standard bet, focusing on the ultimate score, whether the game concludes within the regular duration or extends into multiple overtime periods.
During these additional periods, the "over" outcome often becomes more favorable if the game surpasses the regulation time, whereas the "under" outcome typically faces a disadvantage due to the extended play.
Over/Under Betting Strategy and Tips
Prior to placing an Over/Under bet, you must determine whether the combined score will exceed or fall short of the total set by the oddsmakers. Additionally, you'll need to decide on the timing of your bet, considering whether to place it immediately or wait, as the Over/Under value could potentially fluctuate.
Here are several crucial aspects to take into account when engaging in total betting:
1. Know the level of offensive and defensive play for both teams
Many of the best bettors are able to quantify a team’s offensive and defensive impact with a power rating for each side. This is how totals are made in the first place by oddsmakers, so it only makes sense for every bettor to have an idea of how both teams are performing on each side of the ball before placing a total bet.
2. Pace of play and coaching tendencies
It's not only valuable to gauge a team's offensive and defensive prowess, but comprehending the pace at which each team operates can also be advantageous. In situations where teams adopt an up-tempo style of play, anticipate an increased number of plays, leading to more scoring opportunities. Conversely, if a coach prioritizes ball control and running the clock, it's probable that point-scoring will be less frequent.
As you engage in more total betting, you'll gradually become attuned to these tendencies and patterns.
3. Pay attention to the weather
This holds particular significance in football, although weather conditions can significantly impact total betting across various sports. Inclement weather such as rain, snow, or strong winds can potentially result in a game with fewer points scored. On the other hand, when conditions are close to ideal, wagering on the "over" could be a more favorable option.
It's crucial to thoroughly examine weather forecasts before placing a total bet to make informed decisions.
Place Over/Under Bets at WynnBET.com
Betting over/under with your WynnBET app has never been easier. After you download the app, just sign in using your credentials, or sign up if you are a first-time user. Then head over to the sport you wish to place your bet on.
For NFL, navigate to the football tab. You can choose to bet on college football or the NFL. WynnBET offers a variety of markets, including game lines, futures odds, player props, exclusive markets, and much more.
Tap into your WynnBET app and start betting today!
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