Originally posted on 10/09/2013:

Totals offer you more options in general, I think. Instead of trying to load up on high chalk lines for parlays, you might play an under if you think someone is going to get crushed. If you have a 50-50 type of match, you might find it better to take an over if you think it's going to be competitive rather than sweating out a ML bet on either side.

I wouldn't say easier, just more options. Same with spreads really. If you expect a tight match where the dog might win ... and you get a big number like +4 ... you can play more conservative and go that route vs. trying for the big score with the ML. Look at guys like Anderson and Kohlschreiber as prime examples today. Almost pulled off the upset ... but lost, but covered the spread.