Definition
Over/under (totals) bets on whether combined final score lands above or below a posted number. Both sides typically priced at −110. Overtime counts toward the total in most sports. Key numbers in NFL totals: 41, 43, 44, 47, 51 — common landing spots. Books shade totals toward recreational action, creating sharper over/under edges than spread in some markets. Weather and late injury news cause significant movement.
Worked Example
Rams vs 49ers total posted 47.5 (−110 each). Final score: Rams 27, 49ers 24 = 51 combined. Over wins. Bet $110 on over: win $100, collect $210. If final were 27–17 = 44 combined, under wins. Breakeven: must hit over 52.38% of bets at −110 to profit long-term.
Why It Matters
Totals are less scrutinized than spreads by sharp bettors, so edges persist longer. Weather-adjusted and pace-adjusted models often find mispriced totals before lines move.