According to an AGA survey conducted before the Big Game in 2019, Americans collectively wagered about $6 billion on the NFL’s paramount matchup between the New England Patriots and Los Angeles Rams. The survey also reported that one in six individuals who watched last year’s game had money on the line, and more than 22 million Americans placed “proposition bets,” or “prop bets.” Can you guess how many bets were made legally through authorized sportsbooks?
About three percent of all wagers, according to AGA estimates.
If you are surprised by those facts, take a look at this infographic for some more shocking statistics about gambling on America’s most-watched television event:
If you know someone who gets carried away with football bets, we can help them find gamblers anonymous meetings in Freehold, NJ, or anywhere else in the Garden State.
Why Do So Many Americans Bet Big on the Big Game?
Every single year, more Americans watch the NFL Championship than any other individual television program. Why else would the commercials cost hundreds of thousands of dollars per second of airtime? Sports — particularly football — and gambling are two major staples of American culture, and they clash in a huge way on the NFL’s final game each season. With friends, family, and neighbors coming together for exciting watch-parties, it’s only natural that many non-gamblers and infrequent gamblers are willing to make an exception for the Big Game in February. It’s not just about the money — it’s a social thing, and many Americans do it simply to make the game more exciting. After all, only two teams can play in the finals — but the parties happen nationwide year after year, no matter who is facing off to win it all.
Many People Are Breaking the Law Without Even Realizing
Watch the video below for a brief overview of the “gray area gambling” that occurs annually on America’s biggest sports holiday, then continue reading for more details.
Isn’t it kind of crazy how, each year, offices around the nation have unlawful block pools, while many parents buy blocks for their kids at the big watch party, and nobody thinks twice about it? Block pools are certainly not created with bad intentions, and it’s unlikely that they will bankrupt anyone — but Americans should still be more mindful about illegal gambling and letting their kids participate in block pools at a young age.
Test Your Knowledge About Gambling on the Big Game
Take this short quiz to see how much you know about gambling on the biggest NFL game of the season:
Do You Know a Disordered Gambler Who Needs Help?
If you or someone close to you struggles with a gambling problem, call 800-GAMBLER today to reach our 24-hour helpline, and we will offer the support, treatment, and hope needed for recovery — we can even help you find gamblers anonymous meetings near AC, or anywhere else in New Jersey.