Americans are expected to bet $16 billion on Sunday’s Chiefs-Eagles Super Bowl, according to an industry study by the American Gaming Association.
That figure is more than the yearly gross domestic product of tourist hot-spot Jamaica, Central American country Nicaragua and more than double that of the African nation of Sierra Leone.
That’s a staggering amount of money.
The American Gaming Association recently released the findings from a survey that noted 50 million Americans are expected to bet on the Chiefs-Eagles Super Bowl. The overall betting figure is roughly double last year’s total.
“Every year, the Super Bowl serves to highlight the benefits of legal sports betting: bettors are transitioning to the protections of the regulated market, leagues and sports media are seeing increased engagement, and legal operators are driving needed tax revenue to states across the country,” association president and CEO Bill Miller said in announcing the survey results.
The association cited the rise in sports betting legalization in numerous states as driving the betting craze. For many fans, the chance to bet on games adds extra excitement and gives them something to root for if their favorite teams aren’t playing.
There are numerous ways to bet NFL games. There are even wacky prop bets – such as how long the national anthem will last – that can add spice to the spectacle.
The survey found that 30 million Americans plan to place wagers online or at sportsbooks. Another 28 million will bet among friends or as part of pool contests.
Bettors are split on the most important bet – who will win the game. The survey found that the Eagles and Chiefs each received 44 percent of wagers.
Per OddsChecker, the Eagles are a slight favorite.
