How can I watch an NFL game and bet on the same platform?
Ever since sports betting was legalized more than five years ago, it seemed like that was the ultimate dream.
Smaller sports have offered this service ad nauseam — like lower level tennis matches — but the ultimate end goal will now be met. Bettors at Caesars and Fanatics will now be able to stream NFL games live on their apps. No preexisting subscriptions are needed and every game will be available.
The product comes from Genius Sports — a sports data company that partners with the NFL — whose product is called BetVision.
And Genius executives purport a real advantage with its new technology.
Typically, streams can lag from live broadcasts anywhere from eight seconds to a full minute, depending on the company. Live TV broadcasts lag from the live action by around seven seconds. Genius says the lag time at sportsbooks will be about three to seven seconds — a massive edge if you're planning to live bet.
There are a few caveats. The streams will only work one-by-one and they're only available in states where the app offers legal sports betting. Prospective viewers will need to be registered users at Fanatics or Caesars.
Also, while all games are available, only ones shown in your local area will work. Every Thursday Night Football, Sunday Night Football or Monday Night Football game will be available, though.
There are also wager requirements. At Fanatics, you need to bet at least 10 cents on the game you want to watch. At Caesars, the net will be cast far wider — you only need to have placed a wager on an NFL game over the past year.
