Business Law

Does Over/Under Include Overtime? Sport-by-Sport Rules

Discover the rules for over/under in sports, including overtime. Learn how to bet smartly on NFL, NBA, MLB, and more.

Introduction to Over/Under Betting

Over/under betting is a popular form of wagering in sports, where bettors predict the total score of a game. The rules for over/under can vary depending on the sport and the specific betting market. Understanding these rules is crucial for making informed betting decisions.

In general, over/under bets are based on the total score of a game, including all points scored by both teams. However, the inclusion of overtime can affect the outcome of these bets, and it's essential to know the specific rules for each sport.

NFL Over/Under Rules

In the NFL, over/under bets typically include all points scored in the game, including overtime. This means that if a game goes into overtime, the points scored in overtime will be included in the total score for the purposes of over/under betting.

For example, if the over/under for a game is 45 points and the score is tied at 24-24 at the end of regulation, the points scored in overtime will be added to the total score. If the final score is 31-24, the total score would be 55 points, which would be over the predicted total.

NBA Over/Under Rules

In the NBA, over/under bets also include all points scored in the game, including overtime. The rules for NBA over/under betting are similar to those in the NFL, with the total score including all points scored in regulation and overtime.

However, it's worth noting that some betting markets may offer alternative over/under lines that exclude overtime. These lines are typically labeled as 'regulation only' or 'excluding overtime,' and they can provide a different betting option for those who want to focus on the score at the end of regulation.

MLB Over/Under Rules

In MLB, over/under bets are based on the total number of runs scored in the game, including extra innings. Since baseball games can go into extra innings, the rules for over/under betting in MLB include all runs scored in the game, regardless of the number of innings played.

For example, if the over/under for a game is 8 runs and the score is tied at 4-4 after nine innings, the runs scored in extra innings will be included in the total score. If the final score is 7-6, the total score would be 13 runs, which would be over the predicted total.

Other Sports and Over/Under Rules

The rules for over/under betting can vary depending on the sport and the specific betting market. In hockey, for example, over/under bets are based on the total number of goals scored in the game, including overtime and shootouts.

In soccer, over/under bets are based on the total number of goals scored in the game, including extra time. However, some betting markets may offer alternative over/under lines that exclude extra time or penalties, providing a different betting option for those who want to focus on the score at the end of regulation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does over/under include overtime in the NFL?

Yes, over/under bets in the NFL include all points scored in the game, including overtime.

How do over/under bets work in the NBA?

Over/under bets in the NBA include all points scored in the game, including overtime, unless specified otherwise.

What happens to over/under bets in MLB if the game goes into extra innings?

Over/under bets in MLB include all runs scored in the game, including extra innings.

Are over/under bets in hockey based on regulation time only?

No, over/under bets in hockey include all goals scored in the game, including overtime and shootouts.

Can I bet on over/under in soccer, excluding extra time?

Yes, some betting markets offer alternative over/under lines that exclude extra time or penalties.

How do I know if an over/under bet includes overtime or not?

Always check the specific betting market and rules for the sport and game you are betting on to determine if overtime is included in the over/under bet.