Florida Sports Betting

As Florida's online betting landscape remains unclear for the future, state bettors can place legal bets on Hard Rock Bet and use a number of DFS and social casino apps.

Hard Rock Bet remains the only available sportsbook in Florida and likely will be for the foreseeable future.

Hard Rock Bet Florida

Hard Rock Bet Promo

Coming Soon

Hard Rock Bet Bonus Code

No promo code required

Action Network Score

9.1/10. See our Hard Rock Bet Promo Code and review for more in-depth information about Hard Rock and step-by-step instructions on how to sign up.

Category	Star Rating
Bonuses & Promotions
Mobile App & Website
Registering & Cashiering
Betting Options
Hard Rock Bet vs Other Sportsbooks

Florida DFS Apps and Social Sportsbooks

Check out the current social sportsbook apps available in Florida below!

PrizePicks Florida

PrizePicks is a good choice for those looking for an alternative and legal DFS option in Florida. Over/under totals are created daily for players. Users only have to pick their lineups for a chance to win. More specifically, users in FL can play PrizePicks Pick 'Em Arena, where players can challenge one another (with similar skill levels) to earn the most points (determined by your lineups) to win!

PrizePicks Promo

Place a $5 Lineup, Get $50 Instantly - No Strings Attached!

PrizePicks Promo Code

ACTION

Action Network Score

9.4/10. We recommend reading our PrizePicks Promo Code and review for more details on this unique DFS app.

Bonuses & Promotions
Mobile App & Website
Registering & Cashiering
Betting Options
PrizePicks vs Other DFS Apps

Betr Picks Florida

Betr Picks fantasy platform is now available in FloriDA!

Betr Picks Promo

Get a 100% First Deposit Match up to $200 + Free Pick!

Betr Picks Promo Code

ACTION2

Action Network Score

8.9/10. Check out our Betr Promo Code and review for more info on how the micro-betting app works.

Bonuses & Promotions
Mobile App & Website
Registering & Cashiering
Betting Options
Betr Picks vs Other Sportsbooks

Fliff Social Sportsbook Florida

Fliff Social Sportsbook is the closest platform to a sportsbook that residents and visitors can use. As one of the first of its kind, Fliff offers betting lines and XP Rewards.

Fliff Sportsbook Promo

Spend $100, Get up to $500 in Fliff Coins!

Fliff Promo Code

ACTION

Action Network Score

8.6/10. We recommend reading our Fliff Promo Code and review for more details on the social sportsbook app.

Bonuses & Promotions
Mobile App & Website
Registering & Cashiering
Betting Options
Fliff vs Other Sportsbook Apps

Thrillz Social Sportsbook Florida

Thrillzz is a new social sportsbook that offers similar betting markets that can be found on other legal sportsbooks. Players are only able to use coins in order to place wagers.

Thrillzz Fantasy Promo

Spend $10+ and Get $30 in Sweeps Coins!

Thrillzz Promo Code

ACTION1

Action Network Score

Rating Coming Soon.

Boom Fantasy Florida

Boom Fantasy offers Pick ‘Em: Toss-Ups (Over/Under), Longshots, Favorites, and Matchups.

Boom Fantasy Promo 

Get a Risk-Free Entry up to $100!

Boom Fantasy Promo Code

ACTION

Action Network Score

Rating Coming Soon.

Sleeper Fantasy Florida

Sleeper Fantasy is another robust DFS platform available. SleeperVS and Daily Draft are available for players in Florida at this time.

Sleeper Fantasy Promo 

Get 100% Deposit Match up to $1500!

Sleeper Fantasy Promo Code

ACTION

Action Network Score

8.7/10.

Vivid Picks Florida

Vivid Picks offers pick'em games where you can compete with your friends and earn badges!

Vivid Picks Promo 

Get a Deposit Match up to $250 + $25 Secured Play!

Vivid Picks Promo Code

ACTION

Action Network Score

Rating Coming Soon.

Dabble Fantasy Florida

Dabble is one of the newest DFS apps that offers up to 100X your entry amount if you win!

Dabble Fantasy Promo 

Get a Free $25 on Sign up - No Deposit Necessary!

Dabble Fantasy Promo Code

ACTION

Action Network Score

Rating Coming Soon.

OwnersBox Fantasy Florida

OwnersBox Fantasy is another great DFS option that offers Salary Cap + Lightning Lineups only.

OwnersBox Promo

Get a 100% Deposit Match up to $500 with your First Deposit!

OwnersBox Promo Code

ACTION1

Action Network Score

Rating Coming Soon. 

SuperDraft Florida

SuperDraft is an exciting DFS option that offers Multiplier, Champion Mode, Super 15, and Salary Cap contest for users!

SuperDraft DFS Promo 

Sign Up & Get A Free Pick For A Chance To Win $2,500!

SuperDraft Promo Code

ACTION

Action Network Score

Rating Coming Soon.

StatHero Florida

StatHero is another great option for sports fans in Florida!

StatHero Promo 

StatHero Promo Code

Action Network Score

Rating Coming Soon

Florida Social Casinos

Social casinos are new to the online gaming world are allowed to operate in Florida. Take a look at the social casinos available in Florida below!

High 5 Casino

High 5 is a massive social casino that is available in over 40 U.S. states.

High 5 Casino Promo

Get Up To 200 GC + 40 SC + 100 Diamonds!

High 5 Casino Promo Code

No promo code required

Action Network Score

8/10. Read our High 5 Casino Promo Code & Review.

Bonuses & Promotions
Mobile App & Website
Registering & Cashiering
Betting Options
High 5 Casino vs Other Social Casinos

WOW Vegas Casino

The free-to-play social casino offers more than 500 casino-style games to play!

WOW Vegas Casino Promo

Get 1.75 million WOW Coins + 35 FREE Sweepstake Coins!

WOW Vegas Casino Promo Code

No promo code required

Action Network Score

Rating Coming Soon. Read our WOW Vegas Casino Promo Code & Review.

Pulsz Casino

The vast social casino offers over 750 games for users to enjoy. Sign up today to redeem the welcome offer below!

Pulsz Casino Promo

Get up to 367,000 Gold Coins + 32.3 FREE Sweepstakes Coins

Pulsz Casino Promo Code

No promo code required

Action Network Score

8/10. Read our Pulsz Promo Code & Review.

Bonuses & Promotions
Mobile App & Website
Registering & Cashiering
Betting Options
Pulsz Casino vs Other Social Casinos

McLuck Casino

McLuck Casino offers an easy-to-use app and a vast gaming library.

McLuck Casino Promo

Sign Up and Get 7,500 Gold Coins + 2.5 free Sweepstakes Coins + 150% Extra Coins!

McLuck Casino Promo Code

ACTION5

Action Network Score

Coming soon! In the meantime, read our McLuck Casino Promo Code & Review.

Chumba Casino

Chumba Casino is another option for social casino players.

Chumba Casino Promo

Welcome Offer: Two Million Gold Coins and two Sweeps Coins. Join Chumba Casino today to claim this bonus!

Chumba Casino Promo Code

No promo code required

Action Network Score

Rating Coming Soon. Until then, our Chumba Casino Promo Code & Review.

Florida officials and the Seminole Tribe of Florida announced a groundbreaking deal on Nov. 1, 2021, that would open the door to online and retail sports betting in the state. The state's Hard Rock Bet launched online betting through its mobile app that very day.

Fans of sports betting in Florida were briefly able to use the Hard Rock Bet app and place sports bets in November 2021. However, online sports betting in Florida came to an abrupt halt just three weeks after launching. After a lawsuit was filed by two small casinos in the state challenging the compact forged between the state and the Seminole Tribe, which planned to use its Hard Rock Bet app in the state, a judge ruled the agreement was illegal on Nov. 22, 2021. After that, the app was cut off until all legal issues were resolved.

In a decision rendered Nov. 22, 2021, Federal Judge Dabney Friedrich agreed with the plaintiff and casino owner West Flagler Associates that the decision to allow the Seminole Tribe and the Hard Rock Bet to offer mobile sports betting was not legal. The judge ruled that offering broad mobile betting to people when they are not on tribal land violates the Indian Gaming Regulation Act provisions. 

But all was not lost. On June 30, 2023, the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled in favor of the Seminole Tribe in a case pitting two parimutuels up against the U.S. Department of the Interior. The two parimutuels felt that the Seminoles' pact with the state of Florida, allowing Hard Rock Bet to go live digitally in the state, violated the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA). 

In November 2023, the Seminoles announced that retail sports betting would be available to their physical casino locations on Dec. 7, 2023. Soon after that announcement, mobile sports betting opened once again in the state with a surprise relaunch of the Hard Rock Bet sportsbook app. Later in the month, the Florida Supreme Court denied West Flagler and Associates' motion to take down the Hard Rock Bet app again.

The November 2023 Hard Rock Bet launch served as an "early access period" and only existing users or bettors who were a part of Hard Rock Bet's loyalty program could participate. In December, the Hard Rock Bet app was opened up to all Florida bettors—and retail betting came as well—officially ending a two-year pause of legal mobile sports betting. Mobile betting remains in place to this day, and hopefully, we have seen the last of any legal challenges to mobile betting in the state. 

Florida's Legalization Timeline

We'll bet you care more about the sports of it all than the legal history, but here are some of the important events that have happened along the way:

August 2024

Betr Picks relaunches in Florida. [August 29]

June 2024

Attorneys for West Flagler and Associates filed their writ of certiorari to the SCOTUS to hear its case against the U.S. Dept. of the Interior, pleading for the U.S. Supreme Court to not “allow the unlawful approach taken by Florida to become a model” for sports betting in the United States. However, the court denied the petition, so sports betting remains legal in Florida through the Seminoles. [June 17]

May 2024

Supreme Court states the Court of Appeals was legally able to deny West Flagler from pursuing further legal action against the Seminole Tribe of Florida. [May 15]

April 2024

PrizePicks Pick 'Em Arena launches in Florida! [April 22]

Hard Rock Digital enters a partnership with the Florida Panthers. [April 10]

March 2024

PrizePicks, Betr Picks and Underdog Fantasy cease operations in Florida. [March 1]

February 2024

Attorneys for West Flagler pleaded with the U.S. Supreme Court to not “allow the unlawful approach taken by Florida to become a model” for the future of legalizing tribal sports betting across the nation. [Feb. 11]

December 2023

West Flagler and Associates filed another response to the Florida Supreme Court arguing the Seminoles do not have the right to control gambling in the state, and that it is up to the Florida voters. As of right now, Florida still has retail and mobile sports betting. [Dec. 26]

 Florida retail sports betting officially launches. The Seminole Tribe of Florida began retail sports betting at their hotels and casinos, as some have partnerships with Hard Rock too. [Dec. 7]

 The Hard Rock Bet sportsbook app is made available to all Florida bettors. On the same day, Florida politician Jason Shoaf filed a bill to potentially legalize pick'em style fantasy sports in Florida. [Dec. 5]

 The state attorney general asks the state Supreme Court to dismiss the sports wagering case. The plaintiff in the case, West Flagler and Associates, argued that Gov. Ron DeSantis and the state legislature exceeded their powers in 2021 when they adopted a compact with the Florida Seminoles, which extends the tribe’s monopoly on legal gambling to include sports betting as well as casinos. The state responded, saying that digital sports betting “is not a type of game typically found in casinos” and falls outside the Florida constitution’s definition of casino gambling, according to SportsHandle's Jill Dorson. [Digital sports betting is not a type of game typically found in casinos, Dec. 1]

November 2023

The Florida Supreme Court denies WFA's motion to take Hard Rock Bet app down once again. [Nov. 17]

Hard Rock Bet relaunches online sportsbook for existing users after a two-year pause. This surprising online launch comes after Hard Rock Digital recently announced that they will launch in-person sports betting on Dec. 7. [Hard Rock Bet relaunched its online sportsbook, Nov. 7]

October 2023

U.S. Supreme Court denies WFA's request to stay, officially legalizing sports betting again in FL. While this is great news, WFA is still expected to appeal this ruling sometime in November, which still makes Hard Rock Digital officials hesitant to launching their sportsbook again. [Oct. 25]

FL attorney general requests a 30-day extension for Gov. DeSantis to respond to the Supreme Court case against him and members of the FL legislature. One day later, the Supreme Court extended the deadline until Dec. 1. Originally, DeSantis was given a Nov. 1 deadline to respond. [Oct. 19, 20]

The DOI handed in their Supreme Court response ahead of the 10/18 deadline. The DOI and WFA will now await the Supreme Court's response. [Oct. 18]

Supreme Court Justice John Roberts orders Case 21-5265 to stay. The U.S. Dept. of Interior must respond by Oct. 18 before any further actions can be taken, meaning the Hard Rock's launch has been delayed again. [Oct. 12]

September 2023

DC Circuit denies West Flagler's request to stay. This means that Florida and Hard Rock Bet are inching closer to relaunching online sports betting in the Sunshine State. A clearer path will be presented if the U.S. Supreme Court decides not to take up this case. [Sept. 28]

West Flagler files state constitutional challenge against Florida. The US Supreme Court could take this matter into their own hands if West Flagler's case holds up against the Florida state government. [West Flagler files sate constitutional challenge, Sept. 26] 

PrizePicks, Betr, and Underdog Fantasy are sent cease and desist letters by the FGCC. The Florida Gaming Control Commission have claimed that pick'em games are operating illegally by these three DFS providers and are ordering to stop offering contests for Florida residents. [Sept. 25]

West Flagler files their "motion to stay mandate," leading to further delays of Hard Rock Bet's anticipated relaunch. The DOI will have 10 days to respond to West Flagler's motion and the latter will have an additional seven days to respond. [Sept. 15]

Hard Rock Bet would possibly be able to relaunch as soon as Sept. 19, 2023. The U.S. Court of Appeals has officially denied the request for an en banc hearing by the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals, which opens up the possibility of Hard Rock Bet's return to the FL betting market. [U.S. Court of Appeals denied a request for an en banc rehearing by the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals, Sept. 11]

June 2023

The D.C. Circuit rules in favor of the Seminole Tribe. This is great news after almost 1.5 years of waiting for legal movement on Florida sports betting. Despite this news, Hard Rock can't legally re-launch until late August due to the existing 52-day legal waiting period set by lawmakers. [July 6]

July 2022

The D.C. Circuit will reopen discussions about the tribal sports betting compact case in Aug. 2023. When these conversations conclude, responses will be open sometime in the fall of 2023. The D.C. Circuit is a major governing body so if all goes well, sports betting could be back on in Florida in late 2023. [Action Network, July 13]

January 2022

Sports betting initiative #21-13 failed to make the Nov. 2022 ballot. The FanDuel and DraftKings-backed initiative was unable to meet required signatures to appear on the upcoming Nov. 2022 ballot, which pushes back legalization until at least 2024. 

December 2021

Hard Rock Sportsbook app shut down for now. The Hard Rock Sportsbook suspended sports betting on its app on Saturday, Dec. 4 after the FL sports betting compact with the Seminole Tribe was shut down in November. An appellate court rejected the tribe's request for the Hard Rock app to continue taking bets while the Seminoles appeal the November decision by federal judge Dabney Friedrich. [Hard Rock Suspends Betting on Sportsbook App, Dec. 4]

November 2021

Florida sports betting compact with Seminoles struck down. On Nov. 22, 2021, federal judge Dabney Friedrich agreed with plaintiff West Flagler Associates, which owns casinos in the state, that the decision to allow the Seminole Tribe (partnered with Hard Rock) to offer mobile sports betting to people when they are not on tribal land violates the provisions of the Indian Gaming Regulation Act. An appeal from the Department of the Interior with the Seminole Tribe is expected to follow. [FL Online Sports Betting Halted, Nov. 23]

Florida online sports betting goes live with surprise Hard Rock Sportsbook launch. Hard Rock Sportsbook made a big move to start November, announcing that it launched online betting through its mobile app. Hard Rock Sportsbook — which is also stationed in New Jersey and Iowa — will be the only shop operating to start. Florida does not require in-person sign-ups. [Hard Rock Sportsbook Launches, Nov. 1]

September 2021

  Gov. DeSantis and the Seminole Tribe both filed briefs in support of Florida’s gaming compact. They filed briefs in both Florida and in Washington D.C., arguing that the opponents of the measure didn’t have the law on their side. [Sept. 1]

August 2021

 Owner of Magic City Casino and the Bonita Springs Poker file another lawsuit. This one is filed in the US District Court in DC, which is home to the Department of Interior. The lawsuit argues that Deb Haaland exceeded her authority when she approved the compact. [Dockets and Filings, Aug. 12]

  The United States Department of the Interior approves of the compact. Or rather, because they’ve taken no action to approve or disapprove the Compact before the Aug. 5 deadline, the Compact is considered approved. [US DOI, Aug. 6]

July 2021

  Owner of Magic City Casino and the Bonita Springs Poker Room files a federal lawsuit challenging the Florida gaming compact. The lawsuit argues that the compact authorizing sports betting outside of tribal lands violates the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act. The big question is whether a bet is deemed to be placed on tribal land solely because of the location of the server. [Dockets and Filings, July 2]

June 2021

  DraftKings and FanDuel create the Florida Education Champions. This coalition is formed with the goal of gathering the needed signatures for their initiative to legalize sports betting to land on the 2022 ballot in front of Florida voters. [Florida Education Champions Site, June 23]

  Not everyone is happy about the compact. Miami Beach Mayor Dan Gelber writes a letter to the Secretary of Interior asking her to reject the compact. Since the compact involves tribal issues, it has to be approved by the Department of Interior. [Mayor Gelber Letter, June 3]

May 2021

  Gov. DeSantis signs the Compact. The compact that was approved by the Florida legislature body is signed by the Governor; the compact will provide Florida with a minimum of $2.5 billion in new revenue over five years.

  The Florida House approves the agreement. Just one day after the Senate approved the sports betting agreement, the Florida House of Representatives does the same. [SB 2-A, May 19]

  The Florida Senate votes to approve the agreement. In a 38-1 vote, the Senate approves the agreement between the state government and the Seminole Tribe. [May 18]

  The special session to consider the legal sports betting bill opens. This bill would incorporate the provisions of the Gaming Compact reached with the Seminole Tribe. [May 17]

  The draft of the sports betting bill is introduced. The draft is introduced just ahead of the start of the Senate’s special session scheduled for May 17. [May 14]

April 2021

  Agreement reached with Seminole Tribe. Gov. DeSantis announces the details of a much-anticipated agreement between the state and the Seminole Tribe that helps pave the way for legal sports wagering. [Gaming Compact, April 23]

How Florida Compares: The FL Sports Betting Report Card

We've graded Florida on its sports betting bill and experience relative to other states on crucial categories that set the market's tone: the number of operators, tax rates, mobile offerings, and more. We're still learning more about the local market and will revise this scorecard as details unfold.

How to Place a Sports Bet in FL

Here's how you can register a new Hard Rock Bet account as a new user:

Step 1: Choose Hard Rock Sportsbook 

In sports betting, it's best practice to have accounts at multiple sportsbooks to get the best price on every game you bet on. This is known as "line shopping," and is covered on our YouTube channel here. However, in Florida, there is only one sportsbook, so you can't find the best price. Still, one is better than none. 

Step 2: Sign Up & Verify 

Fill out all the required fields for a new sports bettor in the state: full legal name, email address, home address, phone number and date of birth. Hard Rock may ask you for a driver’s license or social security number to verify your identity. These questions and details are all standard measures sportsbooks take to protect you.

Step 3: Deposit with Preferred Payment

The Hard Rock Bet app will take you to the deposit screen once you’ve put in your personal information. Select your payment method, then click deposit.

Our preference is direct deposit via a bank account for speed. This way when you cash out, the money will be accessible in your checking account right away instead of being credited back to a card in a few days.

Step 4: Place an Online Bet

Here’s how to place your first wager. Remember — the app or website will geo-locate you to confirm you’re actually in FL before you’re able to bet.

• Navigate to your desired sport 
• Head to your bet slip
• Select your bet type 
• Enter your bet amount
• Submit

That's it! You’ve just placed your first legal sports bet. 

If you're interested in sports betting in another legal state, you can also select a well-known betting platform like BetMGM and take advantage of the BetMGM Sportsbook Promo Code.

Florida Sports Teams

The Sunshine State has many sports teams located throughout the state. 

  NFL Betting in Florida

 Miami Dolphins 

The oldest professional sports franchise in Florida, the Miami Dolphins joined the American Football League (AFL) as an expansion team in 1966. The franchise moved to the NFL as part of the 1970 merger and instantly became a powerhouse in the league. After losing in Super Bowl VI, the Dolphins responded with a perfect season — the only team to ever accomplish this feat — en route to its first-ever Super Bowl in 1972. They would win back-to-back championships a year later under Hall of Fame head coach Don Shula.

Miami has appeared in two championships since 1973, losing both games. They have made the playoffs over two dozen times and rank second in the AFC East with 13 division titles. The franchise made a second consecutive playoff appearance in 2023 and appear to be a team on the rise under Coach Mike McDaniel. The Dolphins play their home games at Hard Rock Stadium, and McDaniel is entering his third year at the helm.

Dolphins Odds

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers joined the NFL as an expansion team in 1976 and struggled to find their footing early. An inaugural winless season was met with just three .500 seasons or better in 21 years. The Bucs would secure their first playoff berth in 15 years in 1997 and return to the postseason in five of six years. The franchise won its first Super Bowl in 2002, a 48-21 thrashing of the Oakland Raiders. The championship became known as the 'Gruden Bowl' because Oakland traded head coach Jon Gruden to Tampa Bay ahead of that 2002 season.

In 2020, the franchise brought in longtime quarterback Tom Brady and defeated the Kansas City Chiefs, 31-9, to win its second championship. Since then, the Bucs have made three straight playoff appearances and look forward to a bright future with rising star quarterback Baker Mayfield leading the team. The Bucs play their home games at Raymond James Stadium and are coached by Todd Bowles.

Buccaneers Odds

Jacksonville Jaguars

The third youngest franchise in the NFL, the Jacksonville Jaguars joined the NFL as an expansion team in 1995. The Jags made the playoffs in four of their first five seasons, including a conference championship run in 1996. Since then, however, success has come few and far between. Jacksonville has made just two playoff appearances in the last decade: winning the AFC South title in 2017 and 2022.

The Jaguars are led under former No. 1 overall pick of the 2021 NFL Draft, Trevor Lawrence, and head coach Doug Pederson. They play their home games at Everbank Stadium.

Jaguars Odds

A recommended resource to help you bet on football in FL with skill:

• How to Bet on Football Guide
• Expert NFL Picks
• Keep an eye on betting activity and bet/money distribution with our NFL Public Betting data.

NBA Betting in Florida

Miami Heat

The Miami Heat joined the NBA as an expansion team in 1988, rising to relevance under head coach Pat Riley in under a decade. In 2006, they won a championship under Riley, and his promotion to president of the franchise would lead to even more success. Since the inception of the franchise, the Heat have won a total of seven Eastern Conference titles and three NBA championships. They are known for forming the "Big Three," signing LeBron James and Chris Bosh in the 2010 offseason to pair with Dwyane Wade. The trio would end up making four Finals appearances, winning back-to-back titles in 2012 and 2013. 

Led by All-Star Jimmy Butler, The Heat put together an impressive playoff run in 2020 by reaching the NBA Finals, ultimately falling to the eventual champion Los Angeles Lakers. They were able to make a surprise run to the Finals again in 2023, but came up short against the favored Denver Nuggets. The Heat compete in the Southeast Division of the Eastern Conference and are coached by Erik Spoelstra. They play home games at Kaseya Center.

Heat Odds

Orlando Magic

The Orlando Magic joined the NBA as an expansion team in 1989, one season after its in-state counterpart Miami Heat. The franchise struggled in its initial years, but that would change come the '92 season. The Magic won the lottery and landed highly-touted center Shaquille O'Neal. They would draft Anfernee "Penny" Hardaway a year later, forming one of the NBA's most iconic duos. Despite the duo's short-lived tenure, the franchise would make three consecutive playoff appearances - that which included a Finals appearance in '95.

The Magic are eyeing a promising future following the selection of All-Star forward Paolo Banchero in the 2022 draft. Despite a first-round exit in the '23-'24 season, they ended a four-year playoff drought. Competing in the Southeast Division of the Eastern Conference, the Magic boast seven division titles and two conference titles but an NBA championship still eludes them. The Magic play its home games at the Kia Center and are currently coached by Jamahl Mosley.

Magic Odds

Recommended resource to help you bet with extra "magic" on basketball in FL:

• How to Bet on Basketball Guide

MLB Betting in Florida

Tampa Bay Rays

The Tampa Bay Rays are MLB's youngest team, joining as the most recent expansion team in 1998 — as the Devil Rays — alongside the Arizona Diamondbacks. Success did not come easy for the Rays, finishing dead last in the American League East in all but one of their first 10 seasons. The franchise changed ownership in 2007, rebranding itself as the Rays.

In the 2008 season, the Tampa Bay Rays won their first-ever division title and made a World Series appearance. Since then, the Rays have made the playoffs five more times, adding two more division titles and an American League pennant to their franchise. They returned to the World Series in 2020 during a COVID-shortened season, ultimately falling to the Dodgers in six games. The Rays, led by manager Kevin Cash, play their home games at Tropicana Field.

Rays Odds

Miami Marlins

The Marlins joined MLB as an expansion team in the 1993 season as the Florida Marlins. They are one of two teams to never win a National League East division title and have just four postseason appearances in their near-30-year existence. But of those postseason appearances, the Marlins have won the World Series twice. The first came in 1997, five years after its inaugural season, a seven-game series win over the Cleveland Indians. The Marlins returned six years later, in 2003, and defeated the New York Yankees.

The team moved to LoanDepot Park and rebranded as the Miami Marlins in 2012. They returned to the playoffs in 2020 and 2023, marking their first postseason appearances since their World Series appearance in 2003. The Marlins are currently led by manager Skip Schumaker.

Marlins Odds

Recommended resources to help you bet on baseball:

• How to Bet on Baseball Guide

NHL Betting in Florida

 Florida Panthers 

The Florida Panthers won their first Stanley Cup in team history in 2024 after defeating the Edmonton Oilers in seven games.

Panthers Odds

 Tampa Bay Lightning

The Tampa Bay Lightning joined the NHL as an expansion team in 1992, one year before its in-state counterpart. The franchise struggled to find sustained success early, making the playoffs just once in 10 seasons. But the hire of John Tortorella as head coach turned Tampa Bay around. The Lightning won its first-ever division championship in 2003 and the Stanley Cup a year later.

The Lightning have won four Atlantic Division championships and four Eastern Conference titles. Most recently, they experienced consecutive first-round exits during the 2023 and 2024 seasons. Tampa Bay competes in the Atlantic Division and plays its home games in Amalie Arena. It is led by coach Jon Cooper.

Lightning Odds

Recommended resource to help you bet on hockey in Florida:

• How to Bet on Hockey Guide

MLS Betting in Florida

Orlando City SC

Joining as an expansion team in 2015, Orlando City has qualified for the playoffs just once in six seasons. It came during the 2020 MLS is Back Tournament. Orlando City made a run to the championship where they would eventually fall to the Portland Timbers, 2-1.

Orlando City recently agreed to sign star forward, Facundo Torres to a new three-year contract. The franchise plays its home games at Inter & Co Stadium and is coached by Óscar Pareja.

Inter Miami CF

Inter Miami joined the MLS as an expansion team, holding its inaugural season in 2020. The club recently added midfielder Yannick Bright from the University of New Hampshire via the 2024 MLS Superdraft. Led by soccer legend Lionel Messi, the team competes in the Eastern Conference and play its home games at Chase Stadium. They are coached under Gerardo Martino and have David Beckham among one of its co-owners.

College Sports Teams

There are 13 colleges in the Sunshine State that field Division I athletic programs, but only seven have both football and men's basketball teams. 

College Football Betting in Florida

Florida Gators Football

At the height of the program in the 2000s, the Florida Gators were among college football's most dominant. Under head coach Urban Meyer, the Gators won two National Championships—in 2006 and 2008—both double-digit victories over their opponents. Additionally, they won a National Championship in 1996 and have eight total conference championships since their inaugural season in 1906. The Gators have appeared in 48 bowl games and have produced the sixth-most NFL first-rounders (57) in college football.

In its long-storied history, the Gators produced three Heisman winners, their latest being Tim Tebow in 2007. He would finish as a finalist both years after, one to Oklahoma's Sam Bradford who Tebow would defeat in that 2008 title game. Florida competes in the Southeastern Conference (SEC) and is coached by Billy Napier. The Gators play their home games at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium with a current capacity of 88,548 on campus in Gainesville.

Gators Odds

Florida State Seminoles Football

Like its in-state counterpart, Florida State football claims three National Championships and has produced three Heisman winners. The Seminoles rose to dominance in the late 1980s under Hall of Fame head coach Bobby Bowden, finishing inside the Top 10 rankings for 14 consecutive years starting in 1987. Bowden led the Seminoles to two National Championship wins, its latest coming in the 1999-2000 season. FSU would cap off an undefeated season with a 46-29 win over Virginia Tech.

Florida State currently competes in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) where they joined as part of the conference's expansion ahead of the 1992 season. The Seminoles have won 15 conference championships since — including nine straight starting in that first year as part of the ACC — and have 19 overall since its inaugural season in 1902. Florida State is coached by Mike Norvell and plays its home games at Doak S. Campbell Stadium with a current capacity of 79,560.

Seminoles Odds

Miami Hurricanes Football

Miami Hurricanes football remains the most storied and successful in the state of Florida, having claimed five National Championships and produced two Heisman winners. The Hurricanes currently hold the record for most first-rounders selected in a single NFL Draft (6), and the number of consecutive seasons producing a first-round pick (14). Miami rose to prominence in the 1980s and would remain among college football's best for nearly three decades.

Commonly referred to as "The U," the program's quick rise stemmed from its players that exuded swagger on the field through trash-talking, big hits and constant dance celebrations. They changed college football so much that ESPN produced two documentaries encapsulating the events that took place and how the Hurricanes became the "Bad Boys" of the NCAA.

Miami competes in the Atlantic Coast Conference, transitioning over from the Big East in 2004. The Hurricanes are coached by Mario Cristobal and play their home games at Hard Rock Stadium.

Hurricanes Odds

UCF Knights Football 

Despite joining Division I's FBS level in 1996, UCF has quickly established itself as one of the best college football programs that doesn't compete in a Power 5 conference. Since joining the American Athletic Conference in 2013, the Knights have won four conference championships. They claimed one national championship — 2017—despite not being selected for the College Football Playoff after a 13-0 season. UCF would go on to beat Auburn in the Peach Bowl, 34-27, subsequently naming itself champions.

UCF regularly makes it to bowl games and hope to continue their success as a new member of the Big 12 Conference. The Knights play their home games at the FBC Mortgage Stadium and are led by former Auburn head coach Gus Malzahn, who is prepared to enter his fourth upcoming season with the team.

Knights Odds

USF Bulls Football

The USF Bulls football program was established in 1997 and has been a part of the American Athletic Conference since 2013. The Bulls have never won a conference championship but are 7-4 over 11 bowl appearances. They are coached by Alex Golesh and play home games at Raymond James Stadium, which they share with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Bulls Odds

Florida International (FIU) Panthers Football

Established in 2002, FIU football competed for two years at the Division I-AA level before transitioning to the FBS two years later. The Panthers are the newest Division I football program in the state of Florida and currently compete in Conference USA, where they have been since 2013. FIU competed in five bowl games and took home a Sun Belt Conference title in 2010 before transitioning to C-USA. The Panthers are coached by Mike MacIntyre and play home games at Riccardo Silva Stadium on campus in Miami.

Panthers Odds

Florida Atlantic (FAU) Owls Football

Created one year before its in-state rival FIU, Florida Atlantic took a similar trajectory. After competing in Division I-AA, the Owls would move up to the FBS level as an independent in 2004. They would join the Sun Belt a year later before moving to Conference USA at the start of the 2013 season. FAU has won three conference championships and is 4-1 in bowl games. The program is led by Tom Herman and plays their home games at FAU Stadium.

Owls Odds

Recommended resources to help you bet on college football:

• College Football Betting Tips for Profitability
• College Football Betting Tips on Fading the Public

College Basketball Betting in Florida

Florida Gators Men's Basketball

The Florida Gators men's basketball program struggled to find its footing for the better part of seven decades. It wasn't until Billy Donovan took over in 1996 that the program would undergo a complete 180 and become a powerhouse in the Southeastern Conference (SEC). Under Donovan, Florida made 14 of its 22 NCAA Tournament appearances, won seven regular-season conference championships, and was crowned back-to-back NCAA Tournament champions in 2006 and 2007. Players on that infamous Florida team include longtime NBA players Joakim Noah, Al Horford and Corey Brewer.

The Gators have made five Final Fours — four of which under Donovan — and have yet to return since his departure for the NBA. They are  currently led under head coach Todd Golden. The Gators play their home games at the Exactech Arena inside the Stephen C. O'Connell Center.

Gators Odds

Florida State Seminoles Men's Basketball

Largely overshadowed by the success of its football program, Florida State men's basketball has never won a championship despite 18 NCAA Tournament appearances. The Seminoles have made one Final Four, an eventual 1972 championship loss, and remain rather unsuccessful in postseason play.

Florida State currently competes in the Atlantic Coast Conference. The Seminoles have made several NCAA Tournament appearances and are led by Leonard Hamilton, who just completed his 22nd season at the helm. The Seminoles play their home games at Donald L. Tucker Center.

Seminoles Odds

Miami Hurricanes Men's Basketball

Like its longtime rival Florida State, the Miami men's basketball program has largely struggled in comparison to its football team. The Hurricanes have the tournament many times, but never made it as far as they did in their surprising Final Four run in 2023, where they lost to eventual champion UConn. 

The Hurricanes currently compete in the Atlantic Coast Conference where they have won one conference tournament (2013). The team is coached by Jim Larranaga and plays home games at the Watsco Center on campus in Coral Gables.

Hurricanes Odds

UCF Knights Men's Basketball

UCF competes in the American Athletic Conference, just like its other sports. The Knights have been a part of six conferences — as well as being an independent — since its move up to the Division I level in 1984, combining for five NCAA Tournament appearances.

The program's last postseason run came in 2019, receiving an at-large bid and knocking out VCU in the Round of 64. UCF would fall to Zion Williamson and No. 1 Duke, 77-76, after two attempts around the rim in the waning seconds fell short. The Knights are coached by Johnny Dawkins and play its home games at Addition Financial Arena on campus in Orlando.

Knights Odds

USF Bulls Men's Basketball

USF has largely struggled since its move to the American Athletic Conference in 2013, finishing above .500 just twice. The Bulls have won their conference once and have three NCAA Tournament appearances, most recently in 2012. USF would win its play-in game and upset No. 5 seed Temple, its only two postseason wins in program history. The Bulls play their home games at the Yuengling Center and are coached by Amir Abdur-Rahim.

Bulls Odds

Florida Gulf Coast Eagles Men's Basketball

The youngest Division I program in Florida, the Eagles have also arguably become the most notable mid-major program in the state. Since its transition took effect in 2011, Florida Gulf Coast has won three Atlantic Sun conference championships en route to three NCAA Tournament appearances, none more notable than 2013.

The Eagles made a Sweet 16 run as a No. 15 seed, upsetting Georgetown by double digits. FGCU wouldn't stop there, knocking off San Diego State by 10 and becoming the first 15 seed to ever make the Sweet 16. The Cinderella Story would end there in a loss to Florida, but the school referred to as "Dunk City" had already made history. FGCU is now coached by Pat Chambers and plays its home games at Alico Arena.

Eagles Odds

Florida Atlantic (FAU) Owls Men's Basketball

The Owls were an unknown team before their miracle run to the Final Four in 2023, the year that put South Florida basketball on the map. Since 2018, the team has experienced a tremendous amount of success under head coach Dusty May. For the upcoming 2024-2025 season, the Owls will be coached by John Jakus. They play their home games at Eleanor R. Baldwin Arena on campus in Boca Raton.

Owls Odds

Florida International (FIU) Panthers Men's Basketball

FIU joined Division I as an independent in 1987 and has largely struggled to find its footing. The Panthers have made the Tournament a few times but overall have had limited success as a program. FIU is coached by Jeremy Ballard and plays its home games at Ocean Bank Convocation Center.

Panthers Odds

North Florida Ospreys Men's Basketball

North Florida made the official transition into Division I in 2009 and have won three regular-season Atlantic Sun Conference championships since. The Ospreys haven't found the same success in postseason play, winning just one conference tournament, in 2015. They would lose in the first four of the NCAA Tournament to Robert Morris shortly after. North Florida is coached by Matthew Driscoll and plays home games at UNF Arena.

Ospreys Odds

Jacksonville Dolphins Men's Basketball

The success of Jacksonville basketball can be traced back to its early days as an independent. The Dolphins have five NCAA Tournament appearances, including a run to the 1970 National Championship. They would fall to UCLA and have lost all four postseason appearances since. Jacksonville has not returned to the NCAA Tournament in the last 38 years despite back-to-back Atlantic Sun regular-season championships in 2009-10. The Dolphins are coached by Jordan Mincy and play home games at Swisher Gymnasium on campus.

Dolphins Odds

Bethune-Cookman Wildcats Men's Basketball

Bethune-Cookman joined Division I in 1980 as part of the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference's first expansion. The Wildcats accepted an invitation to join and compete in the Southwestern Athletic Conference in 2021. Despite winning two regular-season conference championships in 2011 and 2018, Bethune-Cookman has never reached the NCAA Tournament. They are coached by former NBA star Reggie Theus and play their home games at Moore Gymnasium.

Wildcats Odds

Florida A&M Rattlers Men's Basketball

Joining Division I alongside Bethune-Cookman as part of the MEAC's expansion — they began play in 1979, one year earlier — Florida A&M basketball has found more postseason success than its in-state HBCU counterpart. The Rattlers have won four conference tournaments and made three NCAA Tournament appearances, their latest in 2007. They are 1-3 in postseason play, their lone win a First Four game against Lehigh. Along with Bethune Cookman, the Rattlers also accepted an invitation to join the Southwestern Athletic Conference in 2021. Florida A&M is coached by Patrick Crarey II and plays home games at the Alfred Lawson Jr. Multipurpose Center.

Rattlers Odds

Stetson Hatters Men's Basketball

Since moving to Division I in 1971-1972, the Hatters have historically struggled with limited success. Recently, they have shown signs of improvement with two consecutive winning seasons, including their first NCAA playoff berth in over 50 years. Coached by Donnie Jones, the Hatters compete in the Atlantic Sun Conference and play their home games at the Edmunds Center.

Hatters Odds

Recommended resources to help you bet on college basketball:

• How to Bet on College Basketball
• Trends to Know Before Betting Conference Tournaments

Other Sporting Events in Florida

Florida has a few notable events that extend beyond its in-state teams for sports fans and bettors alike to enjoy. They host eight NCAA bowl games and multiple events for the PGA, ATP and NASCAR.

Football Events in Florida

Orange Bowl

The Orange Bowl is an NCAA-certified college football game that has been held annually since 1935. It is the second-oldest bowl game in the country and is part of the New Year's Six. It is sponsored by Capital One and is held at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami. Every three years the Orange Bowl also serves as a semifinal for the College Football Playoffs. When not part of the CFP, the bowl game includes the ACC's champion — or runner-up if said champion is in the playoffs — and the highest-ranked team among the SEC, Big Ten and Notre Dame. 

Gator Bowl

Held annually since 1946, the Gator Bowl is played at TIAA Bank Field in Jacksonville. This is the sixth-oldest bowl game in college football history and is sponsored by TaxSlayer.com. The Gator Bowl includes at least one team from either the ACC or Big 10 each season. 

Citrus Bowl

The Citrus Bowl is an NCAA-certified college football game that has been held annually since 1947. It is operated by Florida Citrus Sports, sponsored by Vrbo and held at Camping World Stadium in Orlando each year. The Citrus Bowl features an SEC-Big 10 matchup and is typically held on New Year's Day. 

ReliaQuest Bowl

The ReliaQuest Bowl is an annual college football postseason game held in Tampa, Florida. Previously known as the Hall of Fame Bowl from 1986 to 1995 and the Outback Bowl from 1996 to 2022, it was originally held at Tampa Stadium. In 1999, the game moved to the newly constructed Raymond James Stadium. Traditionally scheduled for New Year's Day, the bowl game marks the beginning of the day's college football postseason events.

Cheez-It Bowl

Like the Citrus Bowl, this is an NCAA-certified college football game operated by Florida Citrus Sports and held at Camping World Stadium in Orlando. The Cheez-It Bowl has been held annually since 1990 and features a team in the Big Ten and SEC conferences. 

Gasparilla Bowl 

Held annually since 2008, the Gasparilla Bowl doesn't have a specific tie-in, rather it can include two random teams across eight conferences, Army or BYU. The Gasparilla Bowl is sponsored by Union Home Mortgage and is held at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa Bay. 

Boca Raton Bowl 

The Boca Raton Bowl is an NCAA-certified college football game that has been held annually since 2014. It is played at FAU Stadium and is sponsored by RoofClaim.com. There are no affiliated conferences in this bowl game, but the American, Conference USA and the MAC have all previously competed. 

Cure Bowl

Established in 2015, the Cure Bowl is held annually at Camping World Stadium in Orlando. The event is sponsored by StaffDNA and features a team from the Sun Belt Conference and American Athletic Conference. 

Golf Events in Florida

Arnold Palmer Invitational

Held annually since 1966, the Arnold Palmer Invitational is currently played at Bay Hill Club and Lodge. The course is privately owned by legendary golfer Arnold Palmer himself and stretches across 7,454 yards. It has a Par of 72 and the event includes a prize fund of over $10 million.

The Players Championship

Established in 1974, The Players Championship is an annual golf tournament held at the stadium course at TPC Sawgrass in Ponte Vedra Beach. Though not a major, it carries the highest prize fund in golf. The course stretches across 7,189 yards with a Par of 72. It includes one of the most iconic holes in golf, the par-3 on 17. 

Cognizant Classic 

The Cognizant Classic is an annual event held at PGA National Resort and Spa's Champion course in Palm Beach Gardens. It was established in 1972 and was sponsored by the American Honda Motor Company from 1982-2023. In late 2023, Cognizant became the new title sponsor. The course is 7,125 yards with a Par of 70. 

Valspar Championship

The Valspar Championship, held annually since 2000, is played at Copperhead Course in Palm Harbor. The event is sponsored by Valspar Corporation and includes a prize fund of over $7 million. The course stretches across 7,340 yards with a Par of 71. 

NASCAR Events in FL

Daytona 500

Part of the NASCAR Cup Series, the Daytona 500 is widely regarded as the biggest race of the year. Held annually at the Daytona International Speedway, the event stretches 500 miles and 200 laps as the season-opening race of the Cup series. 

Dixie Vodka 400

Held annually since 1999 and part of the NASCAR Cup Series, the Dixie Vodka 400 is played at the Homestead-Miami Speedway. The race is sponsored by Dixie Vodka and is now held in March.

Coke Zero Sugar 400

This NASCAR stock car race is hosted at the Daytona International Speedway. Sponsored by The Coca-Cola Company, this race totals 400 miles in length and 160 laps. 

Tennis Events in FL

Delray Beach Open

Part of the ATP World Tour 250 series, the Delray Beach Open is a men's tournament held annually on hard courts. This tennis event was established in 1993 and relocated to the Delray Beach Tennis Center in 1999. Hubert Hurkacz won the 2021 Delray Beach Open in straight sets over Sebastian Korda.

Miami Open

Held annually since 1985 and part of the ATP Tour Masters 1000 Circuit, the Miami Open is played at Hard Rock Stadium. The event is on a hard court and is sponsored by Itaú, an international bank. Hubert Hurkacz won the 2021 Miami Open in straight sets over Jannik Sinner.