Full Breakdown
Thanksgiving Sports Betting: A Major Event in the U.S. Sports Calendar
11/27/2025, 1:56:25 PM
Overview of Thanksgiving Sports Betting
Thanksgiving week in the United States has evolved into one of the most significant periods for sports betting, driven primarily by the National Football League (NFL) and complemented by college football, basketball, and other sports. The week features traditional NFL games, college football Rivalry Week, and a variety of college basketball matchups, making it a prime time for sportsbooks. According to Caesars Sportsbook's head of football, Joey Feazel, this week rivals other major betting events like NFL Week 1 and March Madness.
Key Matchups and Betting Trends
In 2024, the NFL dominated Thanksgiving week, accounting for 79% of the betting handle, with college basketball and college football trailing at 13% and 5%, respectively. The Thanksgiving slate includes three NFL games, all of which are expected to attract significant betting interest due to their competitive spreads. The Baltimore Ravens are favored by seven points against the Cincinnati Bengals, while the Kansas City Chiefs and Dallas Cowboys matchup has a spread of three points. The early NFC North game between the Green Bay Packers and Detroit Lions features the tightest spread at 2.5 points.
The following day, Black Friday, will see the Chicago Bears face the Philadelphia Eagles, with the Eagles favored by seven points. This matchup is notable for its competitive nature, as it marks the tightest spread in the three-year history of the Black Friday NFL game.
College Football Rivalries and Basketball Action
Thanksgiving week is also significant for college football, highlighted by storied rivalries such as Ohio State versus Michigan, where the Buckeyes are favored by 9.5 to 10 points. Other key matchups include Oregon-Washington and Alabama-Auburn. Additionally, college basketball sees a surge in activity, with many top teams participating in early-season tournaments, marking this week as an unofficial kickoff for the sport.
Broader Implications for Sports Betting
The unique scheduling during Thanksgiving week, with games spread throughout the day and across multiple sports, creates an environment conducive to high betting activity. Feazel notes that the unorthodox time slots and the fact that many bettors are off work contribute to increased engagement. The NHL and NBA also feature prominently, with numerous games scheduled, further enhancing the betting landscape.
Official Statements & Responses
Sportsbook directors emphasize the importance of quality matchups in attracting betting interest. Johnny Avello from DraftKings Sportsbook remarked, "I don't think the general public can get enough of good football," highlighting that the quality of games significantly impacts betting volume.
Criticism & Opposition
Despite the excitement surrounding Thanksgiving sports betting, some critics raise concerns about the potential for gambling addiction and the societal impacts of increased betting activity during family-oriented holidays. These concerns are often overshadowed by the enthusiasm for sports and betting during this festive week.
What's Next
As Thanksgiving week concludes, the sports calendar will continue to ramp up, with significant action expected in the coming months as football intensifies and basketball and hockey seasons progress. The anticipation for the NFL playoffs and college basketball's March Madness looms large, promising continued engagement from sports bettors.
