Will Legal Sports Betting Keep the New XFL Afloat?
The Highlights
- Oddsmakers are offering odds on whether the new XFL will last until July 4, 2021.
- Odds suggest there is a 75% chance it will last for more than two seasons despite the original XFL having lasted only one.
- Sports betting may be the main reason for the optimistic outlook.
It's coming back whether you like it or not …
Earlier this season, the colorful, yet aging Vince McMahon announced the XFL will be returning in 2020. Square bettors mashed eggplant emojis at the sight of the news until their phone screens cracked. I did, too.
However, given the XFL's success — or lack thereof — we can't be sure the league will grace us with its presence for all that long. On Tuesday, one sportsbook posted odds on whether or not the league will still be around on the 4th of July, 2021.
Will the XFL fold before July 4th 2021?
- Yes: +200
- No: -300
With the league set to begin a 10-week season in either January or February of 2020, it would likely have two full seasons completed by the given date.
These odds come on the day that Oliver Luck, ex-NFL QB and Andrew's pops, was named the CEO and Commissioner of the league.
.@YahooSports confirms report that NCAA executive Oliver Luck is leaving to become the CEO and Commissioner of XFL. Source close to Luck calls it a "special opportunity." https://t.co/nKmsMM5Eqt
— Pete Thamel (@PeteThamel) June 5, 2018
Looks like Andrew has a job waiting for him in a few seasons!
Considering the original XFL lasted just one season, I'm honestly surprised sights are set this high. These odds suggest there is a 75% chance that the league lasts more than two seasons.
Perhaps the reason for this is none other than sports betting. With gambling legal in Delaware as of today and New Jersey right on the cusp, the industry is on a roll. By 2020, there could be upwards of a dozen states taking wagers.
Legalized Betting Update
Delaware, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Mississippi first to the window. 14 more states (including NY and CA) in the pipeline
Massachusetts, come on! https://t.co/xJwkDtJRFi via @SportsLawProf@DavidPurdumpic.twitter.com/aKHid02oOC
— Action Appelbaum (@Josh_Insights) June 1, 2018
With leagues wanting their piece of the pie, the XFL could surely stand to profit with the legalization of sports gambling. Also, note that the season would roughly take place between the NFL and CFL seasons, finding a little niche for those who can't help but bet on football of any type.
We're still years away, but I can say with much certainty that gamblers can't wait for the new XFL to start.
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