Gambler's in the Neon
by Chips All In
The NFL would have you believe America is excited about its new season. Every detail has been scrutinized to hype your senses for the glitter of their game. Everything from the team's color schemes to the beautiful cheerleaders, many of whom would only speak to guys like us in a valet or bell captain capacity, is expertly exact.
The truth is, while Americans may like their helmeted gladiators, it loves the gambling season. This love affair starts with the opening day kick off, preseason games are for beginners, fools and high ranking officials from former Communist countries, and ends with March Madness. Americans are crazy about three team parlays, over and unders and a six team card. Rams to the over, Stanford and the points, Niners minus seven.
Football cards, propositions, and side bets rule our national psyche. The NHL, NBA and the World Series are just fillers for footballs' off days. Does the bookies new best friend, Thursday Night Football, begin to now make sense? College football is not exempt. Have you ever noticed there is a bowl game for every school with a bus and eleven eligible players?
Monday Night Football used to be a nice excuse to slip out and sip a few beers on a cold winter's night. It has evolved into the most important game of the week. It is the last chance to "get even" before pay out Tuesdays.
Compared to the Super Bowl, where everyone from a railroad porter to a six handicapper makes a wager, March Madness is the Bloody Mary Morning after. This hangover helper has sixty six televised games in two weeks. It is a gambler's Valhalla. So good luck America, and bet early and often.