Does Overtime Count in Betting?
In most cases, yes, overtime counts towards the final score used to settle wagers. This applies to popular bet types like moneyline, spread, and totals (over/under) unless stated otherwise in the specific rules of a sportsbook or for a particular bet.
However, there are exceptions. For instance, some bets might only consider the score at the end of regulation time. It’s crucial to check the rules of your chosen sportsbook and the specific bet you’re placing. This information is usually available in their house rules or FAQ section.
Sports and Overtime Rules
Different sports have varying rules regarding overtime, which can affect how bets are settled. Here’s a breakdown⁚
NFL⁚
- Regular Season⁚ Overtime lasts a maximum of 10 minutes. If a team scores a touchdown on the first possession, the game ends. If the score remains tied after 10 minutes, the game ends in a tie.
- Playoffs⁚ Overtime continues until a winner is decided. Each team gets a possession, and if still tied, sudden death rules apply.
NBA⁚
- Overtime lasts 5 minutes. If the score remains tied, additional overtime periods are played until a winner is determined.
MLB⁚
- Overtime doesn’t exist in the traditional sense. Extra innings are played until one team emerges victorious.
NHL⁚
- Regular Season⁚ A 5-minute, 3-on-3 sudden-death overtime period is played. If no winner, the game goes to a shootout.
- Playoffs⁚ Continuous 20-minute, 5-on-5 overtime periods are played until a goal is scored.
Soccer⁚
- Most competitions use two 15-minute halves of extra time if the score is tied after regulation. If still tied, a penalty shootout determines the winner.
These are just a few examples, and overtime rules can vary within specific leagues and competitions. Before placing a bet, it’s essential to understand the overtime rules of the specific sport and league you are wagering on, as these rules directly impact how your bets are settled.
Overtime in Over/Under Bets
Over/under bets, also known as totals, are wagers on the combined score of both teams in a game. The question of whether overtime counts in these bets is usually straightforward⁚
Yes, in most cases, overtime counts towards the final score for over/under bets. This means any points scored during overtime are added to the regulation time score to determine whether the over or under hits.
For example, imagine an NBA game with a total set at 220.5. The score at the end of regulation is 105-105٫ totaling 210 points. The game goes into overtime٫ and the final score٫ including overtime٫ is 112-110٫ making a total of 222 points. In this case٫ the over would win٫ as the final combined score٫ including overtime٫ exceeded the total of 220.5.
However, it’s crucial to remember that exceptions might exist. Some sportsbooks could have specific rules for certain leagues or competitions where overtime is excluded from over/under bets. It’s always best to double-check the house rules of your chosen sportsbook to avoid any surprises. Look for phrases like “overtime counts” or “including overtime” in their rules section to confirm.
Overtime in Spread Betting
Spread betting involves wagering on the margin of victory in a game, with the sportsbook giving one team a point handicap (the spread) to even the playing field. When a game goes into overtime, the impact on spread bets is similar to over/under bets⁚ overtime counts.
This means the final score, including any points scored in overtime, is used to determine whether a spread bet wins or loses. For instance, let’s say Team A is a 3.5-point favorite against Team B. If you bet on Team A -3.5 and they win in overtime with a final score of 105-100٫ you would win your bet. Despite only winning by 5 points in regulation٫ their overtime victory results in a final score that covers the spread.
The inclusion of overtime scores in spread betting calculations ensures fairness and aligns with the principle that the bet encompasses the entirety of the game. Just like with over/under bets, always confirm the specific rules of your chosen sportsbook. While the vast majority factor in overtime for spread bets, there might be exceptions depending on the sport or specific rules outlined by the sportsbook.
Always prioritize a clear understanding of the rules to avoid any confusion when betting on games that have the potential for overtime.
Overtime in Prop Bets
Prop bets, also known as proposition bets, focus on specific events or statistics within a game rather than the overall outcome. When it comes to overtime and prop bets, the rules can vary significantly depending on the sportsbook and the specific prop bet in question.
Generally, prop bets related to player performance, such as total points, rebounds, or passing yards, typically count overtime statistics. For instance, a prop bet on a basketball player to score over 25.5 points would include any points scored during an overtime period.
However, some prop bets might be explicitly limited to regulation time. For example, a prop bet might ask, “Which team will score first in the 4th quarter?” In this case, overtime would not count, as the bet specifically targets a period within regulation time.
Given the variability in prop bet rules, it’s crucial to carefully read the terms and conditions outlined by your chosen sportsbook. Pay close attention to any language specifying whether overtime counts for a particular prop bet. If in doubt, don’t hesitate to contact the sportsbook’s customer support for clarification before placing your wager.
Impact of Overtime on Live Betting
Live betting, also known as in-game betting, introduces an extra layer of excitement and strategy for bettors. It allows for wagers to be placed on a game while it’s in progress, with odds fluctuating based on the live action. Overtime, naturally, adds another dimension to live betting, offering unique opportunities and considerations.
When a game goes into overtime, live betting markets are often temporarily suspended while the sportsbook adjusts its odds to reflect the new game situation. This pause allows bettors to reassess the game dynamics, consider potential fatigue factors, and strategize their next moves.
Once live betting resumes, it often presents a highly volatile environment. The momentum swings that can occur in overtime create rapid shifts in odds, offering potential for significant payouts for bettors who can accurately predict the flow of play.
However, the fast-paced nature of live betting in overtime also demands quick thinking and a solid understanding of the sport and the teams involved. Decisions need to be made swiftly, and it’s crucial to stay informed about the updated odds and the evolving game situation to make informed wagers.