Sportsbooks Take Longer to Resume Betting on College Games vs NFL Games
College football betting suspensions at sportsbooks typically last longer than NFL game suspensions, according to recent analysis by Bettormetrics. The study examined data from Week 8 of college football and Week 9 of the NFL across major U.S. sportsbooks.
Michigan Wolverines celebrating national championship victory
Key findings:
- Betting suspensions were 8.7% longer for college football compared to NFL games
- DraftKings and FanDuel had the shortest suspension times for NFL games
- FanDuel led in college football, followed by DraftKings
- Analysis included major operators like Bet365, BetMGM, BetRivers, Caesars, DraftKings, ESPN Bet, Fanatics, FanDuel, and Hard Rock
The longer suspension times for college football are likely due to:
- Lower market liquidity compared to NFL games
- Greater number of teams (134 FBS and 129 FCS teams)
- More obscure matchups, especially outside major conferences
- Less betting activity on smaller conference games
Industry experts suggest that reducing suspension times for college football could benefit both operators and bettors by:
- Improving the overall betting experience
- Increasing betting handle
- Enhancing sportsbook profitability
- Creating better customer retention
The NFL market's shorter suspension times stem from higher liquidity and universal team recognition, making it easier for sportsbooks to adjust odds quickly after receiving significant wagers.
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