As if bragging rights for winning the game aren’t enough, the interstate rivalry between the Canes and Gators fans on Twitter is intensifying with bets being placed on the outcome.
Interestingly, the wagers increased this past week immediately following the Cormani McClain commitment to the Gators news. A number of Gators fans were taking the position that they wanted to hold off on betting the game until fall camp started despite the consistent poking and prodding from Canes fans. The addition of McClain, a highly prized high school recruit turned walk-on, brought newfound confidence to the Gators.
In fact, I proposed a $10k bet to a high-profile Gators fan immediately following the Canes' Cam Ward transfer addition news. My proposal was smartly ignored at that time.
Fans can easily place bets on the game via Hard Rock Bets, FanDuel, etc., but they prefer wagering against essentially strangers they’ve met on Twitter. To prevent any funny business, intermediaries are being tapped for some of the wagers to confirm funds are intact.
The wagers range anywhere from a couple hundred dollars to $5k. With the game now less than three months away, more transactions will occur. The stakes are high and getting higher. The losing side will have to pay — literally for their team’s shortcomings. At the time of this reporting, the Canes are favored by 2-3 points by Vegas. I haven’t heard of many wagers that include points.
Fan on both sides are doubling down, driven by a mix of hope, pride, and a dash of bravado. One thing is clear: come game day, it won't just be the players leaving it all on the field. The fans, with their wallets on the line, will be right there with them, making this clash one for the ages.
Like always great stuff you really got your ears on the street