Football is more than just a sport in the United States—it’s a cultural phenomenon that brings millions together every season. From the NFL’s electrifying Super Bowl to the passion of college football rivalries, the gridiron dominates American sports fandom. With the rise of legal sports betting across the country, football betting has become a thrilling way for fans to engage with the game. In 2025, the landscape of online sports betting is more competitive than ever, with top-tier sportsbooks vying to offer the best odds, promotions, and user experiences.
If you’re looking to place bets on NFL games, college football, or even niche markets like player props and live betting, choosing the right betting site is crucial. This comprehensive guide explores the best football betting sites in the US for 2025, breaking down their features, bonuses, and why they stand out. Whether you’re a seasoned bettor or a beginner, this article will help you navigate the crowded market and make informed decisions. Let’s dive in!
Why Football Betting is So Popular in the US
Football, particularly the NFL, is the king of sports betting in the United States. According to industry reports, the NFL accounts for the largest share of betting handle in the US, with the Super Bowl alone generating billions in wagers annually. College football also commands significant attention, especially in states with passionate fanbases like Alabama, Ohio, and Texas.
Here’s why football betting resonates so deeply:
- High-Profile Events: The NFL’s Sunday games, playoffs, and Super Bowl, along with college football’s bowl season, create endless betting opportunities.
- Diverse Markets: From point spreads and moneylines to prop bets and parlays, football offers something for every bettor.
- Live Betting: The fast-paced nature of football makes in-play betting exciting, with odds shifting in real-time.
- Community and Culture: Tailgates, watch parties, and fantasy football amplify the social aspect of betting.
With sports betting now legal in 38 states and Washington, D.C., as of April 2025, fans have more access than ever to regulated, secure platforms. But with so many options, how do you choose the best site for football betting? Let’s explore the top contenders.
Criteria for Choosing the Best Football Betting Sites
To rank the best football betting sites for 2025, we evaluated platforms based on the following criteria:
- Licensing and Security: All recommended sites are fully licensed by state gaming authorities and use SSL encryption to protect user data.
- Football Betting Markets: A wide range of NFL and college football markets, including spreads, totals, futures, and props.
- Odds and Value: Competitive odds and regular odds boosts for football games.
- Bonuses and Promotions: Generous welcome offers, free bets, and football-specific promos.
- User Experience: Intuitive interfaces, fast mobile apps, and reliable customer support.
- Live Betting and Streaming: Robust in-play betting options and live streaming for NFL games.
- Payment Options: Fast, secure deposits and withdrawals with minimal fees.
With these factors in mind, here are the top football betting sites in the US for 2025.
BetMGM Sportsbook
BetMGM is a powerhouse in the US sports betting industry, often dubbed the “King of Parlays” for its seamless parlay-building tools. Its football betting offerings are unmatched, with nearly 1,000 futures markets and over 450 ways to wager on each NFL game.
Key Features
- Welcome Bonus: New users can claim up to $1,550 in bonus bets using the promo code COVERS1550 (not available in NY). If your first bet loses, you’ll get bonus bets up to $1,500.
- Football Markets: Extensive NFL and NCAAF markets, including player props, same-game parlays, and futures like Super Bowl winner.
- Live Streaming: BetMGM offers live streaming for select NFL games, ideal for in-play betting.
- Edit My Bet: A unique feature that lets you modify active bets by adding, removing, or swapping selections.
- MGM Rewards: Earn points on every wager, redeemable for bonuses, vacations, or event tickets.
Pros
- Industry-leading parlay builder.
- Competitive odds and daily bet boosts.
- Sleek mobile app with a user-friendly interface.
Cons
- Odds may not always be the most competitive for niche markets.
- App navigation can feel cluttered for beginners.
Why Choose BetMGM?
BetMGM is perfect for bettors who love crafting complex parlays or diving into prop markets. Its live streaming and robust rewards program make it a top choice for football fans.
FanDuel Sportsbook
FanDuel is a fan favorite, known for its intuitive platform and generous promotions. It’s particularly strong for NFL betting, offering a massive range of markets and some of the best welcome bonuses in the industry.
Key Features
- Welcome Bonus: Bet $5 and get $150 in bonus bets instantly, regardless of whether your bet wins. No promo code required.
- Football Markets: Comprehensive NFL and college football coverage, including unique markets like coin toss and Gatorade color bets for the Super Bowl.
- Live Betting: FanDuel’s live betting interface is smooth, with real-time odds updates and in-game stats.
- Mobile App: Highly rated on iOS and Android for its clean design and fast performance.
- Promotions: Regular odds boosts, profit boosts, and football-specific contests like free-to-play Super Bowl pools.
Pros
- Beginner-friendly interface.
- Generous welcome offer with low entry requirements.
- Excellent for live betting and Super Bowl prop bets.
Cons
- Limited niche sports coverage compared to competitors.
- Bonus bets expire after seven days.
Why Choose FanDuel?
FanDuel is ideal for casual bettors and NFL enthusiasts who want a straightforward platform with exciting promos. Its Super Bowl betting options are among the best in the US.
DraftKings Sportsbook
DraftKings is a titan in the sports betting world, offering a polished platform with a vast array of football betting options. Its sleek app and innovative features make it a go-to for both NFL and college football bettors.
Key Features
- Welcome Bonus: New users can get up to $1,250 in bonuses, including a $50 bonus bet after a $5 deposit and a 20% deposit match up to $1,000. No promo code needed.
- Football Markets: Extensive markets for NFL, NCAAF, and even CFL games, with deep prop betting options.
- Betting Pools: Compete with friends or other users in football betting pools for cash prizes.
- Stats Hub: In-depth statistics and trends to inform your bets.
- Live Betting: Real-time odds and cash-out options for ongoing games.
Pros
- Top-tier mobile app with stunning visuals.
- Unique betting pools add a social element.
- Generous welcome package.
Cons
- Daily odds boosts could be more frequent.
- High wagering requirements for deposit match bonus.
Why Choose DraftKings?
DraftKings excels for bettors who value data-driven insights and a premium mobile experience. Its betting pools and stats tools are perfect for strategic bettors.
Caesars Sportsbook
Caesars Sportsbook combines a world-class brand with a robust football betting platform. Its partnership with the NFL and Genius Sports ensures a top-notch live streaming experience, making it a favorite for in-play betting.
Key Features
- Welcome Bonus: New users can place a first bet of at least $1 and receive 10x 100% profit boosts, up to $2,500 each, win or lose. Use an eligible promo code at signup.
- Football Markets: Strong NFL coverage with competitive futures and prop markets.
- Live Streaming: Stream NFL games directly on the app, a rarity among sportsbooks.
- Caesars Rewards: Earn points on every bet, redeemable for bonuses, hotel stays, or NFL tickets.
- Early Cash-Out: Lock in profits or cut losses before a game ends.
Pros
- Exclusive NFL live streaming.
- Lucrative rewards program.
- Competitive odds for major markets.
Cons
- Prop betting options lag behind competitors.
- Limited coverage for niche sports.
Why Choose Caesars?
Caesars is a must for NFL fans who want to watch and bet live. Its rewards program and profit boosts add significant value for regular bettors.
Bet365 Sportsbook
Bet365 is a global leader in sports betting, known for its extensive markets and industry-leading live betting platform. In the US, it’s gaining traction for its football offerings, particularly for in-play and international markets.
Key Features
- Welcome Bonus: Place a $10 bet at odds of 1/2 or greater to receive $30 in free bets. Terms apply.
- Football Markets: Deep NFL and college football markets, plus international leagues like the CFL.
- Live Betting: Unrivaled in-play betting with live streaming for select games.
- Bet Builder: Create custom same-game parlays with ease.
- Early Payout: Get paid out early if your team takes a significant lead.
Pros
- Best-in-class live betting experience.
- Competitive odds across the board.
- User-friendly bet builder.
Cons
- Live streaming limited compared to global version.
- Welcome bonus is smaller than competitors.
Why Choose Bet365?
Bet365 is the go-to for live betting enthusiasts and those who want to bet on both US and international football markets. Its early payout feature is a game-changer.
Fanatics Sportsbook
Fanatics Sportsbook, a relative newcomer, has quickly made waves with its app-only platform and innovative approach. Backed by the sports merchandise giant, it’s carving out a niche in football betting.
Key Features
- Welcome Bonus: Get up to $1,000 in no-sweat bets over 10 days. Bet $5 or more daily, and Fanatics matches your first bet (up to $100) with a bonus bet if it loses.
- Football Markets: Growing NFL and college football markets, with a focus on prop bets.
- Power Hour Boosts: Daily odds boosts during peak betting hours.
- Mobile-Only: A sleek, app-exclusive platform optimized for iOS and Android.
Pros
- Generous no-sweat bet offer.
- Modern, fast app design.
- Expanding football market coverage.
Cons
- No desktop platform.
- Fewer markets than established competitors.
Why Choose Fanatics?
Fanatics is ideal for mobile-first bettors who want a fresh, dynamic platform with a strong welcome offer. Its focus on prop bets makes it exciting for NFL season.
How to Sign Up for a Football Betting Site
Getting started with a football betting site is simple. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Choose a Licensed Sportsbook: Select one of our recommended sites, ensuring it’s legal in your state.
- Create an Account: Click “Sign Up” or “Join Now” and provide your name, email, and other required details.
- Verify Your Identity: Submit a photo ID to comply with state regulations.
- Claim Your Bonus: Enter any promo codes during registration or opt-in to welcome offers.
- Deposit Funds: Use secure payment methods like debit cards, PayPal, or bank transfers.
- Place Your Bet: Navigate to the football section, select your market, and submit your wager.
Tip: Always check the terms and conditions of bonuses, including wagering requirements and expiration dates.
Popular Football Betting Markets in 2025
Football betting offers endless possibilities. Here are the most popular markets for NFL and college football:
- Moneyline: Bet on which team will win outright.
- Point Spread: Wager on the margin of victory (e.g., Chiefs -7 vs. Eagles).
- Totals (Over/Under): Predict whether the combined score will be over or under a set number.
- Player Props: Bet on individual performances, like Patrick Mahomes throwing over 2.5 touchdowns.
- Same-Game Parlays: Combine multiple bets from the same game for higher payouts.
- Futures: Bet on long-term outcomes, like the Super Bowl champion or Heisman Trophy winner.
- Live Betting: Place wagers during the game as odds shift in real-time.
- Novelty Bets: Unique Super Bowl markets, like the coin toss or halftime show props.
Tips for Successful Football Betting
- Shop for the Best Odds: Compare odds across multiple sportsbooks to maximize value.
- Manage Your Bankroll: Set a budget and stick to it, betting only what you can afford to lose.
- Research and Analyze: Use stats, injury reports, and weather forecasts to inform your bets.
- Take Advantage of Promos: Claim welcome bonuses, odds boosts, and free bets.
- Avoid Emotional Betting: Don’t bet on your favorite team just because you’re a fan.
- Try Live Betting: Capitalize on in-game opportunities, especially during momentum swings.
Responsible Gambling: Always gamble responsibly. If you need help, call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit 1800gambler.net.
Legal Football Betting in the US
As of April 2025, sports betting is legal in 38 states and Washington, D.C., with Missouri set to launch by December 1, 2025. However, regulations vary by state:
- College Betting Restrictions: States like Massachusetts, New Jersey, and New York prohibit bets on in-state college teams.
- Novelty Bets: New York bans Super Bowl prop bets like the national anthem length or Gatorade color.
- Age Requirements: You must be 21+ to bet in most states.
Always verify that your chosen sportsbook is licensed by your state’s gaming commission. Offshore betting sites are not recommended, as they lack consumer protections.
Conclusion
The best football betting sites in the US for 2025 offer a mix of exciting features, generous bonuses, and reliable platforms. Whether you’re chasing the thrill of live NFL betting with Caesars, building parlays on BetMGM, or enjoying FanDuel’s beginner-friendly app, there’s a sportsbook for every type of bettor.
Before you start, consider what matters most to you—live streaming, prop markets, or mobile usability—and choose a site that aligns with your preferences. Always bet responsibly, take advantage of promotions, and enjoy the excitement of football season. With the right sportsbook, every touchdown, interception, and game-winning drive becomes even more thrilling.
Disclaimer: Gambling can be addictive. Please bet responsibly. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call 1-800-GAMBLER. All promotions and bonuses are subject to terms and conditions. Check each sportsbook’s website for full details.
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