It’s never too early to start thinking about Super Bowl futures bets, even with the memories of Super Bowl LIX replaying in our heads less than 24 hours later. Super Bowl LX is set to take place on February 8, 2026, at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California, home of the San Francisco 49ers. While we are almost a year away from the NFL’s biggest game, early betting action is already shaping the market, with sharp line movements and heavy wagers on key teams. Based on BetMGM’s latest insights, we analyze where the action is coming in, which teams bettors are backing early, and how recent trends in performance could impact these wagers.
Early Line Movements: Shifting Super Bowl Odds
The early Super Bowl LX betting market has already seen movement on several contenders:
- Detroit Lions: Opened at +850, now shortened to +800
- Cincinnati Bengals: Opened at +2000, now +1800
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Opened at +4000, now +3500
The Detroit Lions remain a popular pick, coming off a 15-2 season that saw them dominate the NFC North. With an offense that ranked second in total yards (6,962) and passing yards (4,474) in the 2024 season, Detroit’s ability to move the ball has caught the attention of both casual and sharp bettors. Meanwhile, the Cincinnati Bengals are seeing money flow in thanks to Joe Burrow’s elite passing game and a strong finish to the season. Despite being a longer shot, the Tampa Buccaneers have also gained steam, potentially due to key offseason acquisitions, while playing in a subpar division.
Highest Ticket Percentage: Where the Public is Betting
The ticket percentage represents the volume of bets on a team to win the Super Bowl. The following teams have attracted the most action:
- Lions (13.5%)
- Eagles (12.5%)
- Bills (9.8%)
The Lions’ offense, which ranked first in points per game (33.2), likely drives much of the public excitement. Detroit’s rise from an underdog franchise to a legitimate Super Bowl contender has made them one of the most popular bets in the early market. The Philadelphia Eagles, who led the NFL in total defense (4,732 yards allowed) and really showcased their front line with six sacks of Patrick Mahomes in yesterday’s Super Bowl victory, remain a strong contender thanks to their balanced attack. The Buffalo Bills, led by Josh Allen, continue to be a team that the betting public trusts to finally break through after multiple near-misses in the playoffs.
Highest Handle Percentage: Where the Big Money is Going
Handle percentage represents the total money wagered, indicating where larger, more confident bets are being placed:
- Lions (12.9%)
- Eagles (11.3%)
- Chiefs (11.2%)
Despite their Super Bowl loss to the Eagles, the Kansas City Chiefs are always a favorite, thanks to Patrick Mahomes’ ability to deliver in big games. Despite facing challenges in Super Bowl LIX, Kansas City’s defense also stepped up in 2024, allowing the 10th-fewest total yards. The fact that sharp bettors are placing significant wagers on the Eagles and Lions shows that these two teams are not just public favorites but are also backed by some serious money.
Biggest Liability: Risk for the Sportsbooks
BetMGM has listed the Lions, Bengals, and Eagles as its biggest liabilities, meaning that if these teams win the Super Bowl, sportsbooks could suffer a major loss.
- Lions: Their overwhelming support from both public and sharp bettors makes them the biggest liability for sportsbooks. Given their +222 point differential, best in the league last season, they are considered a real Super Bowl threat.
- Bengals: With Joe Burrow healthy and Cincinnati having a top-ten total offense in 2024, they have gained significant backing from those expecting them to continue their torrid second half, next season.
- Eagles: Their dominant defense and elite offensive line make them a well-rounded Super Bowl pick, and their odds could shorten even further as the season progresses.
Key Betting Trends for Super Bowl LX
1. Dominant Offenses are Driving the Market
Teams that excel offensively are seeing the most action, as evidenced by Detroit and Cincinnati, while Kansas City is among the most-bet teams, thanks to their recent pedigree. The Lions’ 409.5 yards per game (second in the league) and the Bengals’ 272.9 passing yards per game (first in the league) suggest these teams will continue to be high-powered offenses worth betting on.
2. Strong Defensive Teams Still Hold Value
While offensive powerhouses attract the public, defense wins championships, and this trend holds in the early market. After a masterful defensive game yesterday, the Eagles are being backed heavily due to their league-leading defense and Super Bowl win.
3. The AFC Remains Highly Competitive
The Bills, Bengals, and Chiefs are consistently seeing action, showcasing how competitive the AFC playoff race is expected to be. With Buffalo and Cincinnati finishing in the top 10 in total offense and scoring and Kansas City defending AFC Champions, bettors recognize that any of these teams could emerge from the AFC to reach the Super Bowl.
Super Bowl LX Betting Strategy: Where to Find Value
With 12 months before the Super Bowl, there are still opportunities to find value in the betting market. Here are some key takeaways:
- Lions at +800: Their odds have already shortened, but if their offense continues to dominate, the value might still be there. However, with their heavy betting action, their odds could drop further.
- Bengals at +1800: Given their late-season surge and Joe Burrow’s postseason success, they present substantial potential in a crowded AFC.
- Eagles at +1100: Their elite defense and Super Bowl experience make them a safer bet than most NFC teams, and their odds could shorten if they start the season strong.
Tracking Early Super Bowl LX Betting Trends
With months to go until the next Super Bowl, the betting market is already shaping up, and certain teams are emerging as clear favorites among bettors. The Lions, Eagles, and Bengals are receiving the most betting action, while sharp money still favors teams like the Chiefs. As the season progresses, keeping an eye on injuries, team performance, and additional line movement will be critical for those looking to place futures bets.
For now, the Lions remain the biggest liability for sportsbooks, making them the most popular early Super Bowl bet. However, with plenty of time before next season, bettors should stay tuned for further market shifts and potential sleeper picks as we move through free agency and the NFL Draft.
New to sports betting? First, explore our Introduction to Sports Betting. Then check out our recommendations at Flip The Switch for online sportsbooks, along with offers to get started. And if you’re not an avid sports fan, you can still find some fun and unusual bets to enjoy!
