America Has Fallen in Love With Long-Shot Sports Bets

The sports betting landscape in the United States has witnessed a significant shift in recent years, with an increasing demand for long-shot bets. This trend can be attributed to several factors, including increased accessibility, promotional offers, media attention, growing acceptance, and technological advancements. As a result, bettors are more engaged and active in the sports betting market, contributing to its growth and popularity.



One of the key factors driving the popularity of long-shot bets is the increased accessibility of sports betting. The legalization of sports betting in many states has made it easier for bettors to place wagers, including long-shot bets. According to Statista, the number of legal sports betting operators in the U.S. has grown significantly since 2018, reaching 111 operators in 2021[1]. This increased accessibility has led to a surge in betting activity, including long-shot bets.

Promotional offers, such as enhanced odds or free bets on long-shot events, have also contributed to the growing popularity of long-shot bets. Sportsbooks often offer these promotions to attract new customers and retain existing ones. For instance, DraftKings Sportsbook offered a promotion in 2021 where bettors could win $1 million if a long-shot underdog won the Super Bowl[2]. These promotional offers encourage bettors to take a chance on underdogs, contributing to the demand for long-shot bets.

Media attention and publicity have also played a significant role in the growing popularity of long-shot bets. High-profile long-shot bets often receive significant media attention, generating interest and excitement among bettors. For example, the 2019 Kentucky Derby saw a record-breaking $150.5 million wagered on the race, with many bettors backing long-shot horses due to the potential for massive payouts[3]. This media attention contributes to the growing demand for long-shot bets.

The growing acceptance of sports betting in the U.S. has also contributed to the popularity of long-shot bets. As sports betting becomes more mainstream and accepted, bettors are increasingly comfortable placing long-shot bets. This trend is reflected in the growing number of states legalizing sports betting and the increasing number of bettors participating in the market.

Technological advancements, such as mobile betting apps and in-play wagering, have also facilitated long-shot bets and shaped consumer behavior. Mobile betting apps have revolutionized the way consumers engage with sports betting, making it easier for bettors to place wagers on a wider range of events and markets, including long-shot bets. In-play wagering, which allows bettors to place wagers during live sporting events, has also contributed to the facilitation of long-shot bets. This feature enables bettors to react to real-time developments in a game, making it possible to place bets on outcomes that may have been less likely at the start of the event.

In conclusion, the growing popularity of long-shot sports bets in the U.S. can be attributed to several factors, including increased accessibility, promotional offers, media attention, growing acceptance, and technological advancements. These factors have contributed to the growing demand for long-shot bets, shaping consumer behavior, and driving the growth of the sports betting industry.

[1] Statista. (2022). Number of legal sports betting operators in the U.S. from 2018 to 2021. Retrieved from
[2] DraftKings. (2021). DraftKings Sportsbook Offers $1 Million Super Bowl Bet. Retrieved from
[3] Associated Press. (2019). Kentucky Derby sets record with $150.5M wagered. Retrieved from