Under (45.5) Total Points (Incl. Overtime) in American Football Sports Betting Explained with Examples + Betting Tips

Under (45.5) Total Points (Incl. Overtime) — Explained (American Football Betting)

This is a totals (over/under) betting market in National Football League and other American football games.

When you choose Under 45.5, you are betting that the combined total points scored by both teams will be 45 points or fewer, even if the game goes into overtime.

How It Works

The bookmaker sets a line: 45.5 points
You pick Under 45.5
Because it’s .5, there’s no draw/push — you either win or lose

You win if:

Total points = 45 or less

👉 You lose if:

Total points = 46 or more

Examples

Winning Bet (Under hits)

Final Score: 21 – 20
Total = 41 points
Under 45.5 wins

Losing Bet (Over hits)

Final Score: 28 – 21
Total = 49 points
Under 45.5 loses

Close Loss

Final Score: 24 – 22
Total = 46 points
Still loses (just 0.5 over!)

Important Note: “Incl. Overtime”

If the game goes to overtime, any points scored in OT count toward the total.

Example:

End of regular time: 21–21 (42 points)
Overtime final: 24–21 (45 points)
Under still wins

But:

If OT ends 27–21 (48 points)
You lose

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Betting Tips for Under 45.5

1. Look for Strong Defenses

Teams with elite defenses usually keep scores low.

Few points allowed per game
Strong pass rush / secondary

2. Slow Offensive Teams

Some teams play slow-paced football:

Run-heavy strategy
Long drives that consume time

This reduces total scoring opportunities

3. Check Weather Conditions

Bad weather = fewer points

Rain
Snow
Strong wind

Passing becomes harder → lower scoring

4. Injury News Matters

Missing key quarterbacks or wide receivers → fewer points
Strong defensive line healthy → fewer big plays

5. Line Movement

If the line drops from 47.5 → 45.5, it means:
Money is coming in on the Under

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Ignoring overtime impact
Betting Under on high-powered offenses (e.g., explosive passing teams)
Not checking team form (some teams suddenly become high scoring)

Quick Summary

Under 45.5 = total points must be 45 or less
Includes overtime points
Focus on defense, pace, weather, and injuries
Even 1 extra point can lose your bet