Super Bowl LVII was one to remember. We got the first matchup between brothers, Rhianna’s legendary performance, and Patrick Mahomes continuing his legacy in the NFL. We also got roughly $16 billion bets through Sportsbook on this year’s big game. 

For those that are unfamiliar, Sportsbook is where a gambler can wager on sports. This is popular doing big games like the Super Bowl, NBA Finals, March Madness, and other sporting events alike. With states now being able to regulate gambling on sports, this was one of the biggest events from the industry.

Caesars, MGM, Wynn, DraftKings, and FanDuel are all fighting for gamblers during this huge time. An estimated 50 million people participated in the Super Bowl alone this year. Many bets were placed and won including Travis Kelce’s touchdown on the opening drive as he was the most-bet player to score a touchdown anytime (-135) on multiple books. 

So, what does this have to do with public relations? Let me tell you, more than you think. As someone who interned in the gaming industry and lives in Vegas, it is everywhere. While I worked specifically in slot machines, this relates to sports gambling as there are many laws and regulations they need to follow. 

Gambling is a very dangerous game. They promote it to be fun and worthwhile. A little bet isn’t going to hurt anybody. Not only do millions of people travel to Vegas per year during events like that, but Super Bowl LVIII is scheduled to be hosted at Allegiant Stadium. This is going to increase traffic in an already very busy town and draw in more sports betters. 

This year, FanDuel offered new users a $3,000 No Sweat First Bet. All you have to do is sign up. This offer is great for increasing users and encouraging people to sign up. I mean, it says no strings attached. People can get it on the bet the Jalen Hurts is an anytime touchdown scorer (-115). 

FanDuel also had a month-long ad featuring Rob Gronkowski. This event was titles “The Kick of Destiny” which features Gronk throughout the process training to kick a live field goal during the commercial break. If he makes it, he gives FanDuel Sportsbook a chance to share $10 million. 

FanDuel isn’t the only one to create commercials. Caesars Sportsbook and DraftKings also featured ads. Having high profile athletes like the Manning Brothers and Gronk in these ads make it seem like it’s nothing serious. Who doesn’t love a little sports betting, right? But in reality, it’s a dangerous game that comes with many warning people want to ignore. 

Every brand wants to create a positive image. And I’m not here dissing on gambling. I have experienced this industry firsthand and let me tell you, it is not what people think it is. But it’s also important to know the impacts of sports betting and how serious it could be.

National Gambling Hotline: 1-800-522-4700 or visit their website here