Inside the Super Bowl's increasingly odd betting markets

While it might not seem like that big deal of a deal to most Aussies, the stature of the Super Bowl amongst global sports fans makes it one of the world’s most wagered on sporting events annually. The good news for Aussie punters who may not know the difference between a first down and a touchdown is that there’s plenty of other adventurous ways they can get some skin in the game for the NFL’s showpiece event.

Here’s a few of the bizarre Super Bowl novelty bets available for those looking to invest responsibly.

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National Anthem Props

The Star Spangled Banner will be performed by country singer Chris Stapleton pre-game, with the over/under line for the length of his rendition currently set at 2 minutes and 5 seconds. Keen researchers will note that seven of the last nine Super Bowl renditions of the US national anthem have lasted over two minutes

Stapleton is apparently known for his ‘raspy, slow riffs’, which could see the song drag out and the over hit. Some sportsbooks will also offer punters odds on which head coach or starting quarterback will be shown first on the broadcast during Stapleton’s performance.

Coin Toss Props

Let’s start by saying that a bet on the outcome of the coin toss is not a wise investment. With most sportsbooks offering odds of $1.95 or shorter, what should be an even money wager is not quite that.

However, if you’re the type of person who’s inclined to throw money away, you will have the option to bet on which team will win the coin flip, as well as whether the coin will land on heads or tails.

Half-time Show Props

There’s been much excitement about what pop icon Rihanna has in store for fans at State Farm Stadium, but the exact arrangements of her performance will be of particular interest to punters.

Many bookies are offering odds on which of her hits Rihanna will perform first with Diamonds and Don’t Stop the Music the favourites. There are even markets on which other artists Rihanna will have as guests during her show, with Drake and Jay Z among those being mentioned.

Other popular halftime show betting options include the colour of the first outfit Rihanna will wear on stage and if there will be a wardrobe malfunction ala when Janet Jackson and Justin Timberlake performed together at Super Bowl XXXVIII.

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