Super Bowl LVIII along with the lesser-known Super Bowl 58, is going to be huge. Naturally, there are plenty of storylines. However, one of the largest aspects of this game is the gambling side of things. Every year is huge surrounding betting and the final NFL game of the season. Yet, this year has more intrigue than others, and the numbers bear it out. What are some of the reasons why we’re seeing such a big increase from last year?
Super Bowl Betting Record Set With New Mark
An estimated $23.1 billion is ready to wager a lot of angles to the upcoming Super Bowl game! Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas plays host to both the San Francisco 49ers and the Kansas City Chiefs. Both teams play at high levels and have star power on their rosters!
Although it can be hard to take attention away from the Las Vegas nightlife, the NFL championship game is a proven exception! Regardless of who is playing, there are plenty of storylines. Also, regardless of who you support or if you are a once-a-year football viewer, there’s something for everyone!
Moreover, this provides a great opportunity for veteran stakeholders and newcomers alike! While there will be the regular bets that you see every game, there’s more! The Super Bowl gives a variety of different types of angles to wager on. From Taylor Swift appearing on screen to how long to Reba McEntire, the public is hitting this game in droves!
Additionally, we are seeing gambling widely become accepted in American sports. This is something where the American markets are catching up to the rest of the world. Globally, placing wagers has successfully been a part of how fans digest matches for a long time. However, this year saw more states give the ok to put their money where their mouth is! Up to 38 states have now legalized gambling. Many Expect that this will also increase, and so will the amount being placed, especially in a game of this magnitude.
Super Bowl Intrigue For This Year
With more eligible eyeballs to up the ante than ever, interest is at an all-time high! The raw numbers are yet to roll in. The American Gambling Association expects a 35% increase from last year in people who will have something at stake, as reported by ESPN. Partaking are roughly 68.7 million adults, a little over a quarter of the US population.
However, this too will rise as more states legalize betting within their borders. Additionally, limiting access in some states is currently depressing the numbers even further. For example, Nebraska only allows in-person gambling at sportsbooks and casinos. As these restrictions ease, the willingness to join in the fun will increase.
It’s also worth noting a certain cultural aspect that is at least minimally helping numbers. Despite some being angered, the ongoing relationship between Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift is a driving force. Especially from “Swifties”, many people who would likely not pay as close attention are drawn into the game. Sportsbooks seek to take advantage of any opportunity. Capitalizing on public interests remains the name of the game!
Super Bowl-Specific Bets To Look For
Every year has goofy and fun bets. However, this year the books are attempting to hook in the added interested parties. It’s not unusual to have celebrity bas bets. For example, taking Tom Cruise parachuting down to the field was a possibility last year. Additionally, showing a certain person as an appearance over/under is common throughout sports betting.
However, this year the books are taking it a step further. Prop bets combined with Swift songs are in an actual category for the Super Bowl! Shake It Off lists at +350 to win if it hits! This involves the San Francisco 49ers scoring first, and the Kansas City Chiefs ultimately pulling off the win.
As you can see, several factors are helping to drive up betting numbers. But as more people get access, expect future Super Bowls to further push the record of total money being spent for one fun-filled evening!
For More Great Sports Content
Gabriel Enjoys all things sports! Football, soccer, basketball, volleyball. You name it! Huge fan of the Nebraska Huskers and New England Patriots. Even bigger advocate of running the football!
Follow him on Twitter at @BigTenGabriel, and follow us @TotalApexSports. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL sports, click here!