The 5 Biggest NFL Bets Placed in History

By: Roger Wright, Guest Contributor
June 3, 2024

Since the legalization of sports betting in 2018, NFL betting has surged, attracting both casual and high-stakes gamblers. In 2021 alone, $52.7 billion was wagered on sports, with nearly half of that coming from NFL bets. This article explores the most staggering NFL bets ever placed, showcasing the unprecedented stakes in America’s favorite sport.

$5 Million on the Bengals

Texas businessman Jim McIngvale made waves in the betting world by placing a monumental $5 million bet on the Cincinnati Bengals to win Super Bowl LVI through Caesars Sportsbook.

It was on top of an existing $4.5 million bet, bringing his total stake to $9.5 million. Mack placed his bets when the Bengals were +170 underdogs, eyeing potential winnings of $16.2 million.

However, the Bengals fell short as the Los Angeles Rams clinched victory with a late touchdown by Cooper Kupp, resulting in Mack losing his entire wager.

$3.46 Million on the Buccaneers

Jim ‘Mattress Mack’ McIngvale also bet big on Super Bowl LV, wagering $3.46 million on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers against the Kansas City Chiefs. Utilizing DraftKings on his mobile while at the airport, Mack's confidence in the Buccaneers paid off handsomely, netting him a $2.75 million profit as they triumphed in a decisive victory.

In a masterstroke of marketing, Mack promised a full refund to customers who spent $3,000 at his stores if the Buccaneers won, sharing his windfall with delighted patrons and bolstering his business's reputation.

$2.3 Million on the Buccaneers

During Super Bowl LV, an anonymous bettor from Nevada placed a remarkable $2.3 million bet on Tom Brady and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers through BetMGM.

This bet proved to be a strategic hedge for BetMGM, which had accepted multiple six-figure wagers on the Kansas City Chiefs. Jason Scott, BetMGM's Vice President of trading, expressed relief at the balance this substantial bet brought to their book.

The bettor's confidence in Brady's experience paid off handsomely, resulting in $2 million in winnings as the Buccaneers delivered a commanding performance in Brady’s 10th Super Bowl appearance.

$700,000 on the Patriots

In December 2020, an anonymous bettor placed significant wagers totaling $700,000 on the New England Patriots to beat the Buffalo Bills in a regular season game. The bets included $500,000 on the Patriots to finish within seven points of the Bills and $200,000 on the Patriots to win.

Unfortunately, quarterbacks Cam Newton and Jarrett Stidham struggled, combining for only nine completed passes and 78 yards. The Bills dominated, scoring 21 points in the second quarter and winning 38-9, resulting in a $700,000 loss for the bettor.

$200,000 on the Chiefs

During the 2021-22 AFC Championship game, when the Kansas City Chiefs held a commanding 21-3 lead over the Cincinnati Bengals, one bettor placed an in-game $200,000 wager on the Chiefs to win.

At such a dominant moment for the Chiefs, the odds were extremely short, promising the bettor a modest $10,000 profit. However, in a dramatic turn of events, the Bengals rallied to secure a 27-24 victory in overtime.

This comeback not only dashed the Chiefs' Super Bowl hopes but also led to a significant loss for the high-stakes bettor.

The Bottom Line

These are the biggest NFL bets ever made, showcasing both the risks and rewards of high-stakes sports betting. While some bettors have won life-changing sums, others have experienced crushing defeats.

Regardless, these monumental wagers demonstrate the significant role that sports betting plays in the excitement and drama of America’s favorite sport. As legalization continues to expand across the US, we'll likely see even more staggering NFL bets placed in the future. And if you want to join in on the action, FanDuel is there to safely and securely take your bet.