Turkey Day Thrills: NFL Dominates Thanksgiving Betting

Thanksgiving week transforms into a major sports betting event, with the NFL consistently leading the charge. In 2024, NFL betting handle accounted for 79% of the week's total, highlighting its dominance over college basketball (13%) and college football (5%). This period consistently ranks among the highest-handle weeks for sportsbooks, rivaling marquee events like the opening rounds of March Madness and NFL Wild Card Weekend.

For 2025, the Thanksgiving NFL slate is poised for exciting contests, with all three games featuring spreads of seven points or less. This trend, if it holds, marks a rare occurrence since 2006, promising competitive matchups. The excitement is amplified by the Black Friday NFL game and a packed schedule of college football rivalry games, including Ohio State vs. Michigan.

Beyond football, the week offers substantial betting opportunities across other sports. College basketball tournaments see significant action, often dubbed the unofficial kickoff to their season. Additionally, the NHL and NBA feature full slates, and the MLS Cup playoffs conclude, making Thanksgiving week a comprehensive betting bonanza for fans.