How a 1986 Super Bowl bet revolutionized sports gambling forever
The Super Bowl remains the biggest betting event of the year, and Caesars Sportsbook is preparing for another record-breaking weekend. With thousands of wagers expected, the company is refining its approach to keep customers engaged beyond the big game. This year's event also marks nearly four decades since a single play changed sports betting forever.
The modern era of Super Bowl prop betting began in 1986 when William 'Refrigerator' Perry scored a touchdown in Super Bowl XX. Caesars bookmakers had set 20-to-1 odds on the defensive lineman finding the end zone, a wager that stunned the nation when it paid off. The moment sparked a surge in novelty bets that continues today.
Super Bowl LIX between the Kansas City Chiefs and Philadelphia Eagles became the most bet-on event in Caesars Sportsbook history. For this year's game, the company is offering around 10,000 different selections, from standard bets to exotic props. One standout wager includes 18-to-1 odds on a defensive player scoring an offensive touchdown—echoing Perry's historic play.
To attract and retain bettors, Caesars uses automated quick picks and personalized parlay suggestions. The platform also emphasises speed, calculating live odds faster to keep bets flowing during the game. However, operators remain cautious about aggressive sign-up offers, as these often draw casual bettors who may not return later in the year.
Beyond the Super Bowl, Caesars plans to promote other sports and events to maintain customer interest. The company also differentiates itself with ties to local and Las Vegas properties, offering contests with free trips to Caesars Palace as part of its rewards.
Caesars Sportsbook is set for another high-stakes Super Bowl, blending fast odds updates with thousands of betting options. The company's strategy focuses on retaining customers by shifting attention to other sports after the game. Meanwhile, the legacy of Perry's touchdown continues to shape how fans engage with the event each year.
