What Is Over/Under Betting on DraftKings?
Over/Under betting, also known as Totals betting, is a wager based on the combined score of both teams in a game. Bettors don't need to predict the winning team but must decide whether the final score will be higher (Over) or lower (Under) than the line set by DraftKings Sportsbook. For example, if the Over/Under for an NBA game is set at 231 points, bettors wager on whether the total points scored by both teams will exceed or fall short of that number.
Here is an example from the NBA
With this win on Sunday, Feb. 23rd, the Lakers snapped an 8-game losing streak against the Denver Nuggets.
This type of bet is popular among novice and experienced bettors because it simplifies predicting outcomes by focusing solely on the total number of points scored rather than which team wins or loses or player performance. Understanding how Overs and Unders work in sports betting is crucial to making informed wagers.
How Do DraftKings Totals Work?
How Do DraftKings Totals Work In Sports Betting?
When sports betting at DraftKings, oddsmakers set a line for the game total, representing the expected combined score of both teams. For example, in an NFL game, DraftKings might set the total at 48.5 points. Bettors can then choose whether the final score will be Over or Under that Total.
This is the most common form of Totals betting, but DraftKings and other U.S. sportsbooks have developed their Totals betting offerings.
DraftKings offers Totals for individual teams, halftime or quarter totals, and even player prop totals like "How Many Total Yards does Saquon Barkley Rush for the Eagles." These sports betting options provide more variety and flexibility, allowing bettors to focus on smaller segments of a game.
Types of DraftKings Totals
| Bet Type | Definition | Example | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Game Total | Bet on combined score of both teams. | Over 48 points in NFL game. | Simple, focuses on total score. | Team performance can skew results. |
| Team Total | Bet on one team’s total points. | Over 24.5 points for Packers. | Focuses on a single team. | Team underperformance results in a loss. |
| Half/Quarter Total | Bet on the Total half points or Total quarter points in a game. | Over 55 points in NBA 1st half. | Predictable with half-time trends. | Unpredictable early-game dynamics. |
| Player Total | Bet on individual player’s total points or stats. | Over 30.5 points for LeBron James. | Focuses on key players. | Injuries or poor performance risk the bet. |
| Run Line Total (MLB) | Bet on total runs scored in a baseball game. | Over 7.5 runs in Yankees vs. Red Sox. | Fewer scoring variables. | Late-game swings in runs are unpredictable. |
| Period Total (Hockey) | Bet on total goals in a specific period. | Over 1.5 goals in hockey’s 1st period. | Shorter betting period. | Quick-paced and unpredictable. |
| Live Over/Under | Bet during a game with real-time odds. | Over 48.5 points mid-game in the NFL. | Adjusts with game progress. | Rapid odds changes, impulsive decisions. |
| Parlay with Over/Under | Combine Over/Under with other bets. | Over 48.5 points + Packers cover spread. | Higher payouts. | All legs must win to cash out. |
| Future Total | Bet on total points or wins for a future period. | Over 8.5 wins for the Packers' season. | Long-term potential. | Requires patience and delayed payout. |
| Alternate Total | Adjusted Over/Under line for different odds. | Over 52.5 points instead of 48 in the NFL. | Customizable based on risk level. | Higher risk with more aggressive lines. |
Great Choice for NFL & NBA
Our review of DraftKings Sportsbook is intended to provide a thorough, unbiased perspective based on available information. We uphold the principles of responsible gambling and encourage users to set limits, engage thoughtfully, and approach betting as entertainment rather than income. For those who need assistance with gambling-related concerns, please seek support from trusted resources.
How Over/Under Betting Works in Different Sports
Over/Under is popular across the four major U.S. sports—NBA, NHL, NFL, MLB, and MLS soccer. Bettors must understand how Overs, Unders, and Pushes work in sports betting to make informed decisions.
NBA Betting Totals
- Common Over/Under Range: Typically 215 to 235 points, but the season average NBA total fluctuates based on offensive and defensive efficiency.
- How It Works: The total bet depends on the total combined score of both teams at the end of regulation (overtime will count toward the total).
- Example: If DraftKings makes the line 223.5, an Over bet wins if the total points scored in the game is 224 or more, while the Under wins if the total is 223 or fewer points.
Factors to Consider for Informed Wagers:
- How fast each team plays (pace of play). The faster, the more potential points put the game over the Total.
- Offensive and defensive efficiency of the teams. Better offense means more points, while better defense means potential for lower-scoring games.
- NBA total for the season and scoring trends.
- If the game had landed exactly on 223, the bet would push (bets include overtime unless stated otherwise).
NHL Over/Under Betting
- Common Over/Under Range: 5.5 to 6.5 goals, though high-scoring teams can push totals higher.
- What It Includes: The total number of goals scored by both teams, including overtime but excluding shootouts at DraftKings.
- Example: If the posted number is 6.5, an Over bet wins if 7 or more goals are scored, while an Under bet wins if 6 or fewer goals are scored.
- Low-Scoring Sports Consideration: NHL games are typically low-scoring sports compared to NBA or NFL, making Unders more common.
NFL Over/Under Bets (Football Game)
- Common Over/Under Range: Usually between 40 to 50 total points, though high-powered offenses can push the total bet past 55 points.
- What It Includes: The total points the game goes in the NFL opener in week 1, including overtime.
- Example: If the total is 47.5, an Over bet wins if 48 or more points are scored, and an Under bet wins if the total is 47 or fewer points.
- What Does 0.5 Mean in Betting? The half-point (0.5) ensures there is no tie, meaning no push. If the total bet lands on the number, the bet is refunded.
MLB (Baseball) Over/Under Bets
- Common Over/Under Range: Typically, 7 to 9.5 runs per game, though games featuring strong offenses can exceed 10 runs.
- How It Works: The total bets depend on the combined points, goals, and runs scored by both teams, including extra innings.
- Example: If the posted number is 8.5, an Over bet wins if 9 or more runs are scored, and an Under bet wins if the total is 8 or fewer runs.
- Inning-Specific Bets: Bettors win on a wager on team-specific totals, such as a team under 2.5 touchdowns in an NFL game or over 0.5 runs in the first inning of an MLB game.
MLS (Soccer) Over/Under Betting
- Common Over/Under Range: Typically between 2.5 to 3.5 goals per match.
- How It Works: The standard bet is on the total number of points, goals, and runs scored by both teams at the end of regulation time (excluding extra time in knockout matches).
- Example: If the total is set at 2.5 goals, an Over bet wins if 3 or more goals are scored, while an Under bet wins if 2 or fewer goals are scored.
Factors to Consider:
- Rules and team philosophies (some teams focus on defense).
- Human nature to root for more points, which affects public betting trends.
How to Read Over/Under Bets on DraftKings
- Most Over/Under bets include overtime unless otherwise stated.
- If a game’s final score lands exactly on the posted number, it results in a push, and the bet is refunded.
- Half points (0.5) are often used to avoid pushes (e.g., 46.5 instead of 46).
Making Smart Over/Under Bets
To win Over/Under bets, bettors must analyze:
- Team play styles (fast-paced vs. slow-paced).
- Defensive efficiency and offensive performance.
- Points scored in overtime and how overtime will count toward the total.
- How much do you win? If the bet wins, wagering $110 on -110 odds would return $100 in profit.
Comparing DraftKings Over/Under Odds
DraftKings' odds are very competitive in the U.S., and it is common to find DK odds at more valuable rates than many of its competitors.
Here’s a comparison table of the Over/Under odds (5.5 goals) for the Flames vs. Capitals game across DraftKings, FanDuel, and Hard Rock Bet:
| Sportsbook | Over 5.5 Odds | Under 5.5 Odds |
|---|---|---|
| DraftKings | -130 | +110 |
| FanDuel | -134 | +110 |
| Hard Rock Bet | -130 | +105 |
Which Sportsbook Offers the Best Value?
For Over 5.5:
- DraftKings (-130) and Hard Rock Bet (-130) are tied for the best price on the Over.
- FanDuel (-134) has the worst price, meaning you must risk more money for the same payout.
For Under 5.5:
- DraftKings and FanDuel both offer +110, which is the best return if you’re betting the Under.
- Hard Rock Bet only offers +105, making it the least favorable option.
Key Takeaways:
- If you're betting Over 5.5, DraftKings and Hard Rock Bet (-130) offer the best value, as you risk less money for the same payout.
- If you're betting Under 5.5, DraftKings and FanDuel (+110) provide the best return on investment.
- FanDuel’s -134 on the Over is the least favorable option because you pay more than the other sportsbooks.
Getting Started with Over/Under Betting at DraftKings
To start betting Over/Under on DraftKings, follow these steps:
- Create an account: Create a new DraftKings account by visiting the DK website or downloading the mobile app(s). If you have an account, log in.
- Find the Matchup You Want: Find the sport and the specific matchup you plan to wager on. Make sure you compare DraftKings odds with other sportsbooks.
- Select your bet: Choose the Over/Under bet, which is located in the middle "Totals" column at DraftKings. Alternatively, if you are looking for a more uncommon total, you can search for the type of bet you want.
- Place your wager: Enter your wager amount and confirm your bet in your bet slip.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Some common mistakes when betting Over/Under include:
- Chasing losses: Avoid increasing your bet size to recover from previous losses.
- Betting without research: Always review team stats, weather conditions, and injuries before betting.
- Betting too many games: Focus on a few well-researched games rather than spreading your bankroll across multiple events.
Comparing Point Spreads with Over/Under Betting
Point spreads and Over/Under betting are two different types of wagers. While point spreads focus on the margin of victory between teams, Over/Under betting is solely concerned with the total points scored. Both types of bets are popular, and some bettors even combine them in parlays for larger potential payouts, albeit with greater risk.
For example, if a point spread is set at 7 points in favor of the Green Bay Packers, and the total is set at 48 points, bettors can wager on whether the Packers will cover the spread and whether the total score will go over or under 48 points.
Unique Totals Opportunities
Bet Insurance on Over/Unders
DraftKings occasionally offers bet insurance on Over/Under bets, allowing bettors who want to win to receive a refund if their bet loses by a small margin. For example, if you bet on the over at 48 points and the game ends with 47 points, you may receive a portion of your wager back through bet insurance. These are promotional offers and are not regularly available.
You can refer to DraftKings bonuses and promotions for all active offers.
Live Betting and Over/Unders
Live betting allows bettors to place wagers on Over/Under totals during the game. The odds change in real-time, depending on the progress of the game. For example, if a football game has a low-scoring first half, the Totals might decrease, providing opportunities to bet on the Over if you expect a high-scoring second half.
Parlay and Over/Under Betting
Over/Under bets can be included in DraftKings parlays, where multiple bets are combined into one wager. For example, you might combine the over in an NFL game with a point spread bet and a moneyline bet. While parlays offer the chance for higher payouts, they also carry more risk, as every leg must hit for the bet to win.
References and Version History
Current (February 24, 2025)
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Meet our Authors
Paruyr Shahbazyan started his business career as an entrepreneur in 2000. Over 13 years, he learned business and leadership, which laid the foundation for his career.
In 2013, Paruyr entered the sports and betting industry as the founder and president of Bookmaker Rating, an online media platform he led until 2020. The platform focuses on in-depth analysis and insights in sports betting and has gained a reputation for quality content.
In 2022, Paruyr co-founded Azuro, a decentralized betting protocol. This shows his commitment to technology in the sports betting space. Through all these experiences, Paruyr has been shaping and influencing the betting industry, setting new trends and standards.
Innovation in sportsbetting comes from a deep understanding of both technology and the human element of sports.
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