Total Points (Incl. Overtime) in American Football Sports Betting
Total Points (Incl. Overtime) is one of the most popular betting markets in American football. In this type of bet, you predict whether the combined points scored by both teams will be Over or Under the number set by the bookmaker — and overtime points are included.
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What Does “Incl. Overtime” Mean?
“Incl. Overtime” means any points scored during overtime will count toward the final total.
For example:
- Bookmaker sets the line at Over/Under 48.5
- Final score after regular time:
- Team A 24 – 24 Team B
- Match goes to overtime
- Final overtime score:
- Team A 30 – 27 Team B
Total points = 57
Over 48.5 wins
Under 48.5 loses
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How Total Points Betting Works
You simply choose:
- Over = More total points than the bookmaker’s line
- Under = Fewer total points than the bookmaker’s line
Example 1 — Over Bet
Line: Over 44.5
Final Score:
- Kansas City Chiefs 28 – 21 Buffalo Bills
Total = 49 points
Over 44.5 wins
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Example 2 — Under Bet
Line: Under 51.5
Final Score:
- San Francisco 49ers 24 – 20 Dallas Cowboys
Total = 44 points
Under 51.5 wins
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Why Bookmakers Use Half Points (.5)
Bookmakers often use numbers like:
- 44.5
- 47.5
- 51.5
This removes the possibility of a draw (push).
Example:
- Over 47.5 needs 48 or more points
- Under 47.5 needs 47 or fewer points
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When to Bet Over Total Points
The Over market is usually good when:
Both Teams Have Strong Offenses
Teams with elite quarterbacks and fast offenses often produce high-scoring games.
Weak Defenses
Poor defensive teams allow more touchdowns and field goals.
Fast Game Tempo
Teams that play aggressively increase scoring opportunities.
Indoor Stadium Games
Indoor games avoid weather problems like wind or rain.
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When to Bet Under Total Points
The Under market can be valuable when:
Strong Defensive Teams
Elite defenses reduce scoring chances.
Bad Weather
Rain, snow, or heavy wind usually lowers scoring.
Injured Key Players
Missing quarterbacks or star receivers often affects total points.
Slow Playing Style
Run-heavy teams consume more clock time.
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Important Betting Tips
Check Team Form
Look at recent matches:
- Average points scored
- Average points conceded
Watch Weather Conditions
Wind and rain are very important in American football totals betting.
Study Head-to-Head Records
Some teams regularly produce high-scoring encounters.
Monitor Injuries
Quarterback injuries can completely change total points expectations.
Understand Overtime Impact
Because overtime counts, even low-scoring games can suddenly go Over.
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Common Total Points Markets
Different bookmakers may offer:
- Full Game Total Points
- First Half Total Points
- Team Total Points
- Quarter Total Points
- Alternate Totals
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Beginner Example
Bet:
- Over 46.5 Total Points
Final Score:
- Miami Dolphins 27 – 24 New York Jets
Total = 51
Your bet wins because total points exceeded 46.5.
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Final Advice
Total Points betting in American football is popular because you do not need to predict the winner — only the total score. Smart bettors focus on:
- Team offense and defense
- Injuries
- Weather
- Match tempo
- Overtime possibilities
Understanding these factors can greatly improve your betting decisions.
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