Plus Minus Betting Explained
Plus minus betting, also known as over/under betting, revolves around predicting the total combined score of both teams or players in a sporting event. It doesn’t involve picking a winner or loser based on the point spread.
What is Plus Minus Betting?
Plus minus betting, also known as over/under betting, is a popular form of sports wagering that centers around predicting the total combined score of both teams or players in a sporting event. Unlike traditional moneyline or point spread betting, plus minus betting doesn’t require you to pick a winner or loser. Instead, your focus lies solely on the total number of points, goals, or runs scored, regardless of which team comes out on top.
Here’s how it works⁚ the sportsbook sets a predetermined total score for the game, represented as a number with a plus (+) or minus (-) sign next to it. Your task is to wager whether you believe the combined score of both teams will be over or under this set total.
For instance, imagine an upcoming basketball game between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Boston Celtics. The sportsbook might set the total score at 215 points. If you think the combined score will exceed 215 points, you would bet on the “over.” Conversely, if you anticipate a lower-scoring game with fewer than 215 points, you would bet on the “under.”
The allure of plus minus betting lies in its simplicity and potential for excitement. You don’t need to worry about point spreads or which team has the upper hand. Your attention remains fixed on the flow of the game and the points racked up on the scoreboard. It’s a captivating way to engage with sports and potentially earn some winnings based on your predictions.
How Plus Minus Betting Works
Let’s break down the mechanics of plus minus betting with a practical example. Imagine an NFL game between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The sportsbook sets the total score (over/under) at 55.5 points.
Here’s how your betting options and potential outcomes would look⁚
- Betting the Over⁚ You wager that the Chiefs and Buccaneers will combine to score more than 55.5 points. If the final score is Chiefs 31, Buccaneers 28 (total 59 points), your over bet wins.
- Betting the Under⁚ You wager that the combined score will be less than 55.5 points. If the final score is Chiefs 24, Buccaneers 21 (total 45 points), your under bet wins.
- The Push⁚ If the final score lands exactly on the set total—for instance, Chiefs 28, Buccaneers 27 (total 55 points)—the bet is a push. In a push scenario, you get your original stake back, and no one wins or loses.
The odds for plus minus bets are typically displayed in American odds format, often around -110 for both the over and under. This means you would need to bet $110 to win $100 (plus your initial stake back). However٫ the odds can fluctuate slightly depending on factors like team matchups٫ offensive and defensive strengths٫ and even weather conditions.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Plus Minus Betting
Like any betting strategy, plus minus betting comes with its own set of pros and cons that you should carefully consider⁚
Advantages⁚
- Simplicity⁚ Plus minus betting is easy to grasp, even for beginners. You’re essentially predicting whether a game will be high-scoring or low-scoring, without the complexity of point spreads.
- Engagement⁚ It keeps you engaged throughout the entire game, as you’re rooting for a specific total score rather than just one team.
- Potential for Value⁚ By researching team statistics, offensive and defensive matchups, and even weather forecasts, you can identify value bets where the set total might not accurately reflect the game’s likely scoring.
Disadvantages⁚
- Volatility⁚ Unexpected scoring bursts or defensive stands can quickly swing the outcome of a plus minus bet, making it somewhat unpredictable.
- Limited Control⁚ Unlike betting on a specific team, you have no control over which team scores the points, only the combined total.
- Push Outcomes⁚ The possibility of a push, while not a loss, means your money is tied up without a potential for profit.
Strategies for Plus Minus Betting
While plus minus betting might seem straightforward, employing strategic thinking can significantly improve your chances of success⁚
1. Thorough Statistical Analysis⁚
Don’t rely solely on gut feeling. Delve into team statistics like average points scored and conceded, offensive and defensive rankings, and recent performance trends. Identify if teams are prone to high-scoring shootouts or defensive struggles.
2. Head-to-Head Matchup History⁚
Past encounters between teams can reveal scoring patterns. Some matchups naturally produce high scores, while others consistently remain low-scoring affairs.
3. Factor in Key Player Influences⁚
Injuries, suspensions, or even hot streaks can drastically impact scoring. Consider the absence or presence of star players, particularly those known for offensive prowess or defensive solidity.
4. Evaluate Playing Styles and Pace⁚
Fast-paced, offensive-minded teams naturally lean towards higher scores, while defensive-oriented teams often result in lower-scoring games. Understanding a team’s playing style is crucial.
5. Don’t Underestimate External Factors⁚
Weather conditions, particularly in outdoor sports, can significantly influence scoring. Extreme heat might favor lower scores, while rainy conditions could lead to more errors and potentially higher scores.
Tips for Successful Plus Minus Betting
Elevate your plus minus betting game with these valuable tips to enhance your decision-making and potential for success⁚
1. Shop for the Best Lines⁚
Odds can vary slightly between sportsbooks. Explore different platforms to secure the most favorable lines, even a small difference can impact your long-term profits.
2. Consider Early Bets⁚
Oddsmakers often adjust lines closer to game time based on betting patterns and new information. Placing bets early allows you to capitalize on potentially advantageous opening lines.
3. Don’t Chase Losses⁚
Like any form of betting, losing streaks happen. Avoid chasing losses by making impulsive bets. Stick to your strategy and make calculated decisions rather than emotionally driven ones.
4. Manage Your Bankroll Wisely⁚
Set a budget for your betting activities and avoid exceeding it. Track your wins and losses to stay disciplined and prevent overspending. Consider using a fixed percentage betting strategy for better bankroll management.
5. Stay Informed and Adapt⁚
The sporting landscape is dynamic. Stay updated on team news, injuries, and any other factors that might influence scoring. Be prepared to adjust your betting strategies based on new information.
6. Trust Your Instincts⁚
While data analysis is crucial, don’t discount your gut feeling. If after thorough research, a particular over/under bet feels right, trust your instincts and place your wager accordingly.