LINCOLN- According to Lynne McNally, CEO of the Nebraska Horsemen and partner at Ho-Chunk Inc., who operate WarHorse Casino in Lincoln, betting is really ramping up in Nebraska as the country eases into football season. "People are buying into the hype," she said, "Maybe there's something to it." Indeed, bets on the college football national championship are already rolling in, with 130-1 Nebraskans believing the Colorado Buffaloes have a shot at it, according to Jason Johnston, WarHorse's sportsbook manager.

"My guess is that the bets we took were even at longer odds prior to last week," he said. Although the Buffaloes have been doing well thus far, it seems that Nebraska's loss to them prompted the surge in betting. However, McNally is skeptical. "I think they're going to crash and burn eventually, but maybe not. I don't know for sure, but it's going to be interesting to see," she said. Either way, betting is on the rise in Nebraska, especially after the opening week of the NFL last week.

"Football is the most wagered-on sport in the country," said Johnston, "It's clear that Nebraskans enjoyed the opportunity to do so in their home state." However, local will be unable to wager on Nebraska's upcoming game against Northern Illinois, since they're playing in the state. Despite this, Johnston is confident. "We don't anticipate much of a drop-off," he said, "There are still plenty of other games outside the state that have people interested. Although August's gambling tax numbers, released by the Nebraska Racing and Gaming Commission, only showed modest gains over July, September's tax receipts are expected to jump significantly.

For the full article click HERE