The "Big Game" To Shatter Sports Betting Records

The "Big Game"betting totals have increased from $4 billion in 2022 to $19 billion in 2024 nationwide.

COLUMBUS, Ohio, Feb. 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Ohio for Responsible Gambling is warning about this year's "Big Game": many Ohioans may have an overly invested outcome in the Feb. 9^th game, even if the Bengals and Browns aren't playing.

Derek Longmeier, executive director of Problem Gambling Network of Ohio (PGNO), said this year's game is expected to be one of history's largest bet-on sporting events, both in Ohio and across the country.

The American Gaming Association found more than 25% of American adults (67.6 million) bet on the 2024"Big Game". The 2024betting handle of $23 billion was $7 billion more than 2023 and $19 billion more than the 2022.

Sports betting in Ohio continues to create record volume, with sports betting in Ohio topping $1 billionin November, an 18.5% increase over last year.

"It's easy for someone to rack up thousands of dollars in betting on their phone," Longmeier said. "There's a balance between fun and harm that we need to understand."

Longmeier said there are more than 1.8 million Ohioans categorized as low-risk, moderate-risk, or problem gamblers. That's 19.8% of the general adult population and a 300% increase since 2012.

"Ohio is following a national trend where increases in gambling disorders impact all demographics. Even family members and friends are impacted. It is important to understand that Ohio offers free programs to help anyone experiencing a gambling disorder," he said.

Longmeier said the Ohio Problem Gambling Helpline data shows increased calls around prominent sporting events like the The "Big Game". He encouraged Ohioans with concerns to be proactive.

• Pause Before You Play is Ohio's statewide awareness campaign that targets sports gaming. It encourages individuals to set time and money limits when betting on sports or other forms of gambling.
• The Ohio Gambling Telehealth Network can provide support to those without local access to qualified counselors specifically geared toward Ohioans with gambling related concerns.

Anyone concerned about their gambling or betting decisions or those of someone in their life should call Ohio's Problem Gambling Helpline which connects individuals with local resources that are free and confidential. Trained and understanding specialists will answer 24/7 at 1-800-GAMBLER or text 4HOPE to 741741.

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SOURCE Ohio for Responsible Gambling