Wagering on the total of a game is very simple. All you are betting on is whether or not the final score will go "over" or "under" the total posted by the sportsbook.
| Moneyline | Total | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 501 | Giants | -3 | -155 | Over 35 |
| 502 | Cowboys | +3 | +135 | Under 35 |
The total of a game is always posted on the same line as the favorite. So what these lines tell you is that the total in the Giants, Cowboys game is 35 points.
| GIANTS 21 | GIANTS 19 | GIANTS 21 |
| COWBOYS 17 | COWBOYS 14 | COWBOYS 14 |
| Total = 38 | Total = 33 | Total = 35 |
| You would win your wager. | You would lose your wager | You would push* your bet. |
*A push means that, taking the point spread into account, the game was a tie. In the case of a push all funds are returned to you. your wager plus the juice.
| GIANTS 21 | GIANTS 19 | GIANTS 21 |
| COWBOYS 17 | COWBOYS 14 | COWBOYS 14 |
| Total = 38 | Total = 33 | Total = 35 |
| You would lose your wager. | You would win your wager | You would push* your bet. |