As Super Bowl LX kicks off today at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, the sports betting world is witnessing history in the making. The American Gaming Association (AGA) forecasts a record-breaking $1.76 billion in legal wagers will be placed on this high-stakes rematch between the Seattle Seahawks and the New England Patriots. This monumental figure marks a significant leap from last year's $1.39 billion handle, driven by the expansion of legal markets to 38 states and the explosive popularity of live, in-game betting.

Record-Breaking Super Bowl LX Betting Handle

The projected $1.76 billion legal handle represents more than just a financial milestone; it signals the total maturity of the U.S. sports betting market in 2026. According to AGA President and CEO Bill Miller, the surge is fueled by increased accessibility and fan engagement. "No single event brings fans together like the Super Bowl," Miller stated in a press release earlier this week. With 38 states plus Washington D.C. now offering legal wagering, millions of Americans are placing bets with confidence on regulated platforms.

Industry analysts point to the rise of Same Game Parlays (SGPs) as a primary engine for this growth. Bettors are no longer satisfied with simple moneyline or spread wagers; they are combining outcomes—like Sam Darnold passing yards, Drake Maye rushing attempts, and total points—into complex, high-reward tickets. This trend has significantly boosted the "hold" percentage for sportsbooks, contributing to the record revenue projections.

Seahawks vs. Patriots: The Ultimate Rematch

For football purists and bettors alike, this matchup is dripping with narrative. It has been 11 years since the Patriots heartbrokenly defeated the Seahawks in Super Bowl XLIX with the infamous Malcolm Butler interception. Today, the script is flipped. The Seattle Seahawks (14-3), led by the unlikely resurgence of MVP-candidate Sam Darnold, enter as 4.5-point favorites. Darnold's journey from draft bust to Super Bowl starter is the story of the season, and his MVP odds have shortened significantly as sharp money pours in on Seattle.

On the other side, the New England Patriots (14-3) have returned to glory under head coach Mike Vrabel. Second-year quarterback Drake Maye has silenced critics, leading a gritty offense that mirrors the dynasty years. While the public is leaning heavy on the Seahawks' high-flying offense, contrarian bettors are eyeing the Patriots' defense, banking on Vrabel's ability to scheme against Darnold in high-pressure situations.

Key Super Bowl 60 Prop Bets & Trends

Beyond the spread and total, Super Bowl 60 gambling trends reveal a massive interest in player props and novelty bets:

  • Sam Darnold MVP Odds: Currently sitting at +125, reflecting the expectation of a Seattle victory.
  • Drake Maye Rushing Yards: The Over/Under is set at 32.5 yards, a popular pick given Maye's mobility in the playoffs.
  • Bad Bunny Halftime Show: Prop bets on the first song of the halftime show are seeing heavy action, with "Monaco" being a favorite.
  • Gatorade Color: Blue is the current favorite (+200), matching the Seahawks' primary colors.

Legal Sports Betting Records 2026: A Shift in Landscape

The landscape of legal sports betting records in 2026 has evolved dramatically. With Missouri and other key states coming online recently, the footprint of legal wagering is larger than ever. The AGA notes that the migration from illegal offshore sites to regulated U.S. sportsbooks is accelerating, ensuring consumer protection and tax revenue generation.

However, the rapid growth has also brought scrutiny. The rise of "prediction markets" like Kalshi, which allow trades on non-sporting outcomes, has created some confusion among casual bettors. The AGA has emphasized the distinction between these financial instruments and traditional sports betting, urging fans to stick to regulated sportsbooks for the safest experience.

In-Game Betting: The New Frontier

As kickoff approaches at 6:30 p.m. ET, sportsbooks are bracing for a deluge of live in-game betting. With faster data feeds and low-latency streaming, bettors can now wager on the outcome of the next drive or even the next play with near-instant precision. This micro-betting sector is expected to account for over 35% of the total handle for Super Bowl LX, a testament to how technology is reshaping how Americans consume the NFL.

Whether you are backing the Seahawks to exorcise the demons of 2015 or betting on the Patriots to start a new dynasty, Super Bowl LX promises to be the most wagered-on event in American history. As always, experts advise fans to bet responsibly and view wagering as entertainment, not an investment.