What is the most popular sport for betting on Thanksgiving?

The NFL is the most popular sport for betting on Thanksgiving, commanding the largest share of wagers.

When is the biggest sports betting week of the year?

Thanksgiving week is one of the biggest sports betting weeks of the year, especially due to the NFL and other major sports events.

What are the Thanksgiving NFL game spreads for 2025?

For 2025, all three Thanksgiving NFL games are expected to have spreads of seven points or fewer.

Home / Sports / Turkey Day Thrills: NFL Dominates Thanksgiving Betting

Turkey Day Thrills: NFL Dominates Thanksgiving Betting

26 Nov

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Summary

NFL commanded 79% of handle during Thanksgiving week betting.
Thanksgiving week is a top-tier sports betting period.
Close spreads expected for 2025 Thanksgiving NFL games.

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.