The Super Bowl is not only the pinnacle of American football but also one of the biggest betting events of the year. Each year, millions of people around the world place bets on various aspects of the game, from the final score to the length of the national anthem. Here are some key statistics on betting in the Super Bowl that highlight the magnitude and popularity of this annual event.
1. Massive Wagers: The Super Bowl attracts staggering amounts of money in bets. In 2020, it was estimated that over $6.8 billion was wagered on the Super Bowl, both legally and illegally. This figure continues to rise each year, as more states in the US legalize sports betting and online platforms make it easier for people to participate.
2. Spread Betting: One of the most popular forms of betting on the Super Bowl is spread betting. This type of wager involves placing bets on whether a team will win by a certain number of points or if they will lose by less than a specific margin. In 2020, approximately 26 million Americans placed spread bets on the Super Bowl.
3. Prop Bets: Prop bets, short for proposition bets, have become a significant part of Super Bowl betting. These bets allow gamblers to wager on specific events or outcomes that may not directly affect the final score. Some examples of prop bets include the length of the national anthem, the color of Gatorade poured on the winning coach, or even the number of times a specific celebrity will be shown during the broadcast. In recent years, prop bets have gained immense popularity, with millions of dollars being wagered on these quirky and entertaining options.
4. Online Betting: The rise of online sportsbooks has revolutionized Super Bowl betting. With the convenience and accessibility offered by online platforms, more and more people are opting to place their bets online rather than through traditional means. In 2020, it was estimated that around 7.6 million Americans placed their Super Bowl bets online, representing a significant increase from previous years.
5. Betting on Commercials: The Super Bowl is famous for its highly anticipated commercials, and bettors have found a way to make this aspect of the game even more exciting. Many sportsbooks now offer bets on which commercial will be shown first, which brand will have the most commercials, or even which commercial will be voted the best by viewers. These bets add an extra layer of entertainment to the Super Bowl experience and attract a wide range of participants.
6. Halftime Show Betting: The halftime show is another major highlight of the Super Bowl, and it has also become a target for betting enthusiasts. People can place bets on various aspects of the halftime performance, such as the songs that will be performed, the special guests who may join the headlining artist, or even the color of the artist’s outfit. This type of betting has gained popularity in recent years, with fans eagerly waiting to see if their predictions come true.
In conclusion, the Super Bowl is not only a thrilling sporting event but also a massive betting extravaganza. With billions of dollars wagered each year, spread bets, prop bets, online betting, and even bets on commercials and halftime shows have become an integral part of the Super Bowl experience. As the popularity of sports betting continues to grow, it is safe to say that these key statistics on betting in the Super Bowl will only continue to rise in the future.
