Super Bowl prop bets gain popularity among casual bettors

As the Super Bowl rolls around next Sunday, the most popular American sporting event brings more casual bettors into the proposition betting scene, drawing a larger pool of sports bettors across the country.

Proposition betting, commonly referred to as prop betting, has gained popularity over the years for its variety and simplicity. Unlike some other forms of sports betting, prop bets wager on events or points unrelated to the outcome of the game.

Prop bets often revolve around individual performance, but there are also bets on whether certain events like safety occurs in a game.

“I think you have a ton of people that want just to bet the props. They don’t really care who wins. That’s really a way for them to enjoy the game.”

Jeff Benson, Circa Sports operation manager

The wide range of prop betting options appeals to a diverse group of bettors in the U.S., especially during the biggest sporting event. Sports betting operators asserted that this unique set of options adds to the excitement of each game.

More demand, more options

Many U.S. sportsbooks have responded to the demand for prop bets, with some sportsbooks already revealing their options ahead of the Super Bowl in anticipation of high demand.

Caesars Sportsbook revealed over 2,000 options in their newest menu. In one of their more specific selections, bettors can decide whether an interception or a fumble will lead to the first turnover. A $100 bet on a fumble would cost $140, while the same bet on an interception would cost $170.

Initially, prop bet options were limited to a few key events, but have since expanded throughout sports history. They have grown significantly since their start in 1986 when Caesars Sportsbook held its first prop bet during the 1986 Super Bowl.

Prop bets receive a higher volume of wagers compared to traditional bets, with the Vice President of the Westgate Las Vegas race and sports operations estimating that there may be six or seven prop bets made for each traditional Super Bowl bet.