The Tigers are suddenly scuffling. The D-backs wasted a prime opportunity. The Guardians and Rangers, however, did not. Monday’s MLB action provided all that and much more.

Here are all the best moments from last night in Major League Baseball:

Tigers Continue To Slide

The Tigers managed to grab a wild-card spot even after trading top starters Tarik Skubal and Casey Mize at the trade deadline, but it’s starting to feel like now Detroit really could have used those two around. The Tigers have now lost six in a row, with the AL-best Rays taking the first game of the series between the two on Monday.

Now, this isn’t why Detroit lost against Tampa Bay last night — the Rays would score more runs after this — but what ended up being the winning run scored on this play, in which the Tigers did not challenge the call at first base, allowing a run to score.

It would have been the third out of the inning, and still a 1-0 game at that point — maybe things go differently from that point forward, maybe they do not, but we’ll never know for sure. In the sixth, first baseman Jonathan Aranda would make the point that much more moot, by hitting his 16th homer of the season 380 feet off starter Framber Valdez.

Valdez, signed to a three-year, $115 million contract this offseason, was expected to be paired with Skubal as a co-ace for a season and then take over as the top arm for Detroit in 2027. Instead, he has a 4.35 ERA on the season, and just allowed four runs to the Rays without striking out a batter.

While Detroit threatened in the ninth with runners on the corners and the tying run at the plate, closer Bryan Baker got out of the jam by striking out right fielder Zack McKinstry and first baseman Spencer Torkelson to end the game.

The Rays are in a great place, still in first in the AL East with the most wins in the junior circuit with 78. Even if Tampa Bay slides a little bit and falls into a wild-card spot, both the Yankees and Red Sox have loads of cushion in those first two that the Rays would inherit. Detroit, though, has dropped to seven games out of the AL Central lead and is 4.5 behind the Guardians for the last wild-card, with five other teams in between the two. The Tigers’ season isn’t done yet, but this losing streak is certainly leading there barring a miraculous September comeback.

Big Dumper’s Big Day

Cal Raleigh has had a horrible 2026. You can ask Deesha Thosar about that, or just a look at where Raleigh’s collapse sits, historically. The good news for both Raleigh and the Mariners is that said collapse got a little less historic on Monday: he hit three homers in four trips to the plate against the Phillies, bumping his OPS over .600 for the first time since May 5. Raleigh’s OPS+ is now also 78 — it had been just 65 and the largest year-to-year drop in the stat in MLB history, minimum 300 plate appearances, just a week ago.

In the bottom of the first, Raleigh caught up to a 95 mph Zack Wheeler four-seamer and sent it back in the other direction at 108.5 mph.

In the fifth, Raleigh didn’t hit it quite as hard — still hard, though, at 101 mph — but sent it nearly 400 feet this time, this time on a cutter that Wheeler left middle-middle.

And then in the seventh, Raleigh got hold of a cutter down low from reliever Chase Shugart, and deposited it over the wall in right field. Three homers in one game; that’s the first time Raleigh has managed the feat, which is impressive when you consider he bashed 60 of them a year ago and another 91 in the three seasons preceding that.

Big Dumper’s season isn’t fixed by any means — he’d have to hit about .500 the rest of the season for that to happen — but as Thosar said, as Raleigh goes, so do the Mariners. And on Monday, Seattle won 9-2 behind three hits and four RBIs from Raleigh — if he can hit even a little bit instead of what came before, then the Mariners still have a realistic shot in both the AL wild-card race (currently three games back) and the AL West, where the Rangers are in first because Texas is the only team with a .500 record.

As for the Phils, the winning streak was snapped at nine games, but Philadelphia finds itself two games ahead of the Padres in the wild-card standings and just 3.5 behind the Braves in the NL East. Oh, and Atlanta has to face the Dodgers this week, so there might be time for more climbing for Philly.

Ump’s Got Ups

Cubs Shut Out D-Backs

Not a great night for the Diamondbacks here, courtesy the Cubs. Arizona entered play two games back of the Padres for the third wild-card spot in the NL, and exited the day in the same place even though San Diego lost to the Pirates, 3-2, in 12 innings. It’s bad enough to lose when that happens, but the D-backs were shut out by Chicago, 7-0, just to make it sting that much worse.

Conversely it was quite the day for Michael Conforto and the Cubs — Chicago’s DH went 3-for-3 with a walk, two runs and two RBIs, and was part of back-to-back jacks in the sixth inning.

Conforto has rebounded pretty well from a rough 2025 with the Dodgers, in which he was a sub-replacement-level player for Los Angeles thanks to a .637 OPS and negative defensive value. With the Cubs, he’s being deployed almost exclusively against right-handed pitchers, and the platoon is working out for everyone involved: Conforto is batting .232/.326/.473 on the season with 12 homers in 88 games, while his 119 OPS+ is the highest he’s produced since 2020.

Guardians Make it 5 Straight

While the Tigers have lost five in a row and harmed their chances of making the postseason, the Guardians are headed in the opposite direction. After downing the Angels on Monday, Cleveland has won five straight, and sits half-a-game ahead of the Astros for the AL’s third wild-card spot.

Check out this play from third baseman José Ramírez, who managed to get this ball in foul territory and still make the throw he needed to in order to get the out at first.

Ex-Angel Jo Adell made it a 2-1 game against his former team with a groundball single in the fifth, and catcher Austin Hedges would add on an exclamation point in the next inning with a two-run shot, his fifth homer of the year.

Parker Messick managed to keep the Angels in check, holding Los Angeles to one run across six innings, and just four baserunners. The rookie starter has a 2.50 ERA on the season, and debuted just over a year ago, on Aug. 20: since the call-up, Messick has posted a 2.54 ERA over 194 ⅔ innings and 33 starts while striking out over four times as many batters as he’s walked. He’s been great, and despite the 10-8 record this season has played a significant role in the Guardians being where they are.

Red Sox Rally In The 9th

The Marlins had just won three in a row, leaving them four games back in the NL wild-card race — not out of it by any means, especially not with how hot this team has shown it can get in spurts in 2026. Miami started playing host to the Red Sox on Monday, however, and Boston not only had its own weekend sweep behind it, but has been MLB’s best team since the All-Star break with a 25-11 record.

The two played it even for most of the game, with the Marlins scoring first in the second inning, then building a 2-1 lead with another run in the seventh: Sandy Alcantara was excellent, with seven innings and six strikeouts against eight total baserunners. When he left the game, though, Boston took advantage: a wild pitch by reliever Josh Ekness tied the game at two, then in the ninth second baseman Anthony Seigler hit his first career triple to make it a 3-2 game.

Shortstop Nick Sogard added another run on a single to score Seigler, giving closer Aroldis Chapman some insurance to work with in the bottom of the inning. He didn’t need it, allowing just one harmless hit before retiring the side and extending Boston’s winning streak to four games.

The Marlins are lucky in that both the D-backs and Padres lost, keeping Miami from falling further behind, but September approaches: things are getting to the point where the status quo becomes its own issue in the standings.

Ow

The Rangers won against the White Sox on Monday, launching Texas into sole possession of first place in the AL West, but at what cost?

Well, okay, the Rangers won 11-2 against Chicago, so the cost was mostly to Brandon Nimmo’s ribs. Shortstop Corey Seager continues to look like he’s supposed to at the plate now that his back inflammation is in the rear view: he went 3-for-4 before being lifted on Monday, with three RBIs, a walk and a run, and has hit so well over the weeks since his return — .355/.424/.553 in 21 games — that his OPS+ for the season is now 118, and he’s been worth nearly 2.5 wins above replacement. And all of that despite the fact he was batting just .182/.292/.374 when he landed on the IL a second time.

If Seager is Seager again, the Rangers are better than their record. The AL West might not have a standout, but seeing the Mariners, Astros and Rangers fight it out over the next month should still be plenty entertaining.

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With three (and for many drivers, four) new venues over the first 15 races of the 2026 season, the last three INDYCAR competitions will be on familiar circuits.

A weekend doubleheader awaits drivers on Saturday and Sunday at The Milwaukee Mile oval before the season wraps up Labor Day weekend at the Laguna Seca road course.

Here are my power rankings after the last new venue, the street course in Washington, D.C.

Dropped out: Felix Rosenqvist (Last Week: 10)

On the verge: Pato O’Ward, Felix Rosenqvist, Nolan Siegel

10.

Malukas was solid in qualifying, getting to the Fast Six. But he hit the wall in the final round and then again early in the race. He said he needs to be better and that’s because he has had moments of brilliance. His wrist injury has flared up and that hasn’t helped.

9.

VeeKay wrecked out early at Washington after contact that was initiated by Marcus Armstrong, who was penalized for the incident that included Christian Rasmussen. Still, he has three top 10s in his last five starts.

8.

A fifth-place finish at Washington was Simpson’s fourth top 10 in his last six races. It was a great rebound after his crash in qualifying had him starting 23rd.

7.

McLaughlin crashed out when trying to make a move for the lead late in the race at Washington. Typically, crashing doesn’t mean a driver moves up, but something should be said for him making a move for the win at a place where it was hard to pass.

6.

Newgarden, still nursing an injured left foot, was eighth at Washington. That’s not great. D.C. was yet another weekend where he wasn’t impressive and appeared to be taking what his car and the track were giving him.

5.

Power finished third at Washington for his third consecutive third-place finish and his sixth top 10 in the last seven races. He probably can’t wait for next year to see if he can get off to a good start and challenge for the title.

4.

Ericsson followed up his win from Markham with a fourth-place finish at Washington. After an engine penalty, he started 21st. It was a very solid day.

3.

Lundgaard finished second at Washington. It was a great result for a driver who has shown no signs of slowing down and that’s despite not being retained at Arrow McLaren next season.

2.

What a victory for Kirkwood at Washington as he dominated the race from start to finish. He remained in the championship hunt for at least one more week, as he is now 91 points behind Alex Palou.

1.

It was a disaster of a day for Palou after he won the pole at Washington. There was a pit-road miscue and then a couple of incidents where he found the wall. It was a memorable weekend but also a forgettable one as he’ll look to clinch his fifth INDYCAR title at Milwaukee.

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INDYCAR’s Kyle Kirkwood is just as comfortable in the ocean as he is in the cockpit.

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There’s always a new NFL jersey loading.

And the latest is the “Rivalries” look, which every team in the NFC North (Chicago Bears, Detroit Lions, Green Bay Packers and Minnesota Vikings) and AFC South (Houston Texans, Indianapolis Colts, Jacksonville Jaguars and Tennessee Titans) will sport for one game in the 2026 season in a home game against a divisional opponent.

Each of these teams’ “Rivalries” jerseys will be available for purchase on Sept. 1. Last year, every team in the NFC West (Arizona Cardinals, Los Angeles Rams, San Francisco 49ers and Seattle Seahawks) and AFC East (Buffalo Bills, Miami Dolphins, New England Patriots and New York Jets) rocked the “Rivalries” look.

As for Tuesday morning’s announcement, here’s what to know about every team’s “Rivalries” look and when it will be worn in the 2026 season:

Chicago Bears

They look like the Illinois Fighting Illini, but they are indeed the Chicago Bears.

Chicago’s “Rivalries” look includes an orange helmet, numbers and pants and a base black jersey. 

Chicago will wear the jersey against Green Bay on Dec. 25.

Detroit Lions

Detroit’s “Rivalries” jersey, which is branded “Defend the Den,” features a blue helmet, a white jersey, “DETROIT” stitched in blue on the collar and the jersey number black with a blue perimeter.

The Lions will sport the look against the Vikings on Nov. 1.

Green Bay Packers

The Packers have white helmets, a base green jersey with white jersey numbers and a yellow perimeter and white pants.

The Packers will rep the look against the Bears on Oct. 11.

Minnesota Vikings

It’s all about the purple. The Vikings have a purple helmet, jersey and pants.

Minnesota will flex the “Rivalries” look against Detroit on Dec. 20.

Houston Texans

Houston’s “Rivalries” look features a white helmet, a base white jersey with powder blue numbers and white pants.

The Texans will rock the attire against the Colts on Nov. 19.

Indianapolis Colts

Indianapolis sports a base, dark gray uniform and pants with a dark blue helmet, which star cornerback and two-time All-Pro Sauce Gardner displayed.

The Colts will debut the look against the Texans on Sept. 27.

Jacksonville Jaguars

Dubbed “Bold City,” the Jaguars have teal helmets, a base white uniform and black pants, with the font being reminiscent of the team’s inaugural look in 1995.

The Jaguars will wear the jersey against the Colts on Nov. 1.

Tennessee Titans

The Titans have a light blue helmet and jersey numbers, with a black base uniform and “Music City” stitched on the collar. 

The Titans will debut their “Rivalries” look against the Jaguars on Nov. 15.

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By now, Rod Moore can predict the question he’s going to hear when he speaks to someone outside the Michigan football program. 

A starting safety for the Wolverines and the first three-time captain in school history, Moore has played just 85 snaps from scrimmage since walking off the field as a national champion following the 2023 campaign. He’s endured three surgeries since then — all on the same stubborn left knee — and spent his recovery pondering his future in the sport. So he understands why one question’s been thrown at him repetitively.  

How are you feeling?

For the first time in a long time, Moore doesn’t mind them asking. There is no lingering discomfort for him to downplay, no awkward prognosticating about the timetable. “Healthy,” Moore told me during a recent telephone conversation, “finally healthy.” The relief in his voice is noticeable. Moore’s biggest individual goal as the 2026 season approaches — his sixth with the Wolverines — is for his body to still feel this good whenever the final snap is played several months from now.

Rod Moore recorded 38 tackles and two interceptions in 2023, his last fully healthy season at Michigan. (Photo by Luke Hales/Getty Images)

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His career wasn’t supposed to unfold this way — not after Moore, a former three-star recruit, forced his way into the starting lineup as a true freshman because of a heightened understanding of former defensive coordinator Mike Macdonald’s system and a fiendish approach to film study that drew steady praise from head coach Jim Harbaugh. 

Not after he recorded a famous interception against Ohio State his junior year and earned third-team All-Big Ten honors on the way to Michigan’s first national championship in 26 years. 

Not after he believed the initial surgery to address the torn ACL would be “smooth, peaches and cream,” and then he’d return better than ever for one final collegiate season.

But then came the complications. 

In addition to damaging his ACL, which was successfully repaired during the first procedure, Moore told me he also suffered a bone bruise and subsequent tears in both menisci. Issues with his meniscus and some lingering scar tissue triggered a second surgery. He recovered enough to make three appearances last fall — against Nebraska, Wisconsin and USC in the middle of the season — but never played again. He underwent a third surgery to clean out even more scar tissue, which doctors hoped would address Moore’s persistent discomfort, this past January.  

“There would be days, you know, in the past two years, where I would wake up, and I’m continuously in pain,” Moore told me. “Sometimes I really didn’t understand why it was still hurting, so some days I wouldn’t even want to do anything — or even sometimes thinking, ‘Will my knee ever feel normal again? Will I ever play football again?’

Rod Moore and former Michigan QB J.J. McCarthy celebrate Michigan’s 2023 CFP national championship victory over Washington. (Photo by David Buono/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

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“But now, just coming in here every day, it pushes me to work, to continue pushing the guys and just work as hard as I’ve ever worked because this makes you have a different perspective of the game. Especially when you can’t control what happened — and you’ve been sitting for so long, looking from the outside in — it just gives me a sense of gratitude for the game.”

Moore’s time at Michigan transcended the program’s turmoil. He first committed to Michigan on May 10, 2020, before Harbaugh’s salary was halved after a losing record during the pandemic-shortened campaign, before the Wolverines resurrected themselves with three consecutive Big Ten titles and three straight trips to the College Football Playoff, long before anyone outside Ann Arbor knew the name Connor Stalions. 

He handled the media frenzies that accompanied Harbaugh’s lucrative tenure. He stayed when Sherrone Moore replaced Harbaugh and then endured yet another national scandal with Moore. He remained at Michigan for a third regime change to current head coach Kyle Whittingham.

Rod Moore looks on before the 2025 game against USC. (Photo by Luke Hales/Getty Images)

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Moore does his best not to “live in regret,” but there were times, he told me, when he would imagine what might have been. 

He considered turning pro after Michigan won the national championship in 2023, to capitalize on a season in which the coaches voted him third-team all-conference. But Moore promised his mother that he would complete his degree in communications and media, so he remained in Ann Arbor. He then suffered the career-altering knee injury in practice the following spring. 

“I feel like it was a blessing in disguise,” Moore told me. “I live through [the idea that] everything happens for a reason, but I think after sitting those two years and then coming back and being able to play again, it will put me at a different perspective of knowing the game and kind of being ahead of everybody else because I was essentially a coach the last two years. I learned the game from a coach’s perspective rather than just playing and playing and playing.”

He operated with a coach’s mindset, too. Under the direction of former coordinator Don “Wink” Martindale, the defensive coaching staff leaned on Moore like a graduate assistant. 

He became a teacher during defensive back meetings in classroom settings and wore a headset during games, learning how the lines of communication operated and hearing how much profanity was exchanged amid legitimate Xs and Os discussion. Moore says he’ll pursue coaching whenever his playing career ends.

In between the coaching experience came endless hours in the training room, where Moore watched many of his teammates with less serious injuries recover quickly. Fellow defensive backs Makari Paige, Will Johnson and Quinten Johnson checked on him daily, as did defensive tackle Rayshaun Benny, whom Moore described as his closest friend on the team. Beyond football, his primary support group included his mother, his godbrother and several friends from back home in Dayton, Ohio, and the surrounding suburbs. 

“Making sure that my mentalis OK because a lot of people’s mental isn’t always strong going through that type of injury,” Moore told me.

Moore finally returned to the field earlier this month after missing all of spring practice while recovering from his third surgery. Though Moore is fully cleared by the medical staff, Whittingham and his staff instituted a “pitch count” ahead of the season opener against Western Michigan on September 5.  

“It feels like, as long as he stays on the path he’s on — no setbacks — he’s going to be good to go this fall,” Whittingham said at Big Ten media days in July. “He’d be the quarterback of the whole secondary. He’s a difference-maker and an all-Big Ten-caliber player. And if he’s back there in the lineup, that makes us a whole lot better.”

But no matter how well Moore performs this season, concerns from NFL teams about his long-term health will persist.

For now, though, as the Wolverines embark on a new era with a new regime, Moore can finally contribute for the first time in roughly 30 months. After enduring more hardships than anyone on Michigan’s roster and coming out the other side, it’s the perfect time to ask Rod Moore how he’s feeling.   

Michael Cohen’s Related Stories

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The 2025 NASCAR season ended on a high note for champion Kyle Larson. 

For Denny Hamlin, it couldn’t have ended worse, as the veteran driver watched his chances of securing his first title elude him once again.

Now, Hamlin has four wins this season and Larson has none. And as the series drives toward The Chase, Hamlin sits at the top of the title oddsboard.

Not only is Hamlin favored to win the championship, he’s already captured the regular-season title.

Here are the latest odds for the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series Championship at DraftKings Sportsbook as of August 25.

This page may contain affiliate links to legal sports betting partners. If you sign up or place a wager, FOX Sports may be compensated. Read more about Sports Betting on FOX Sports.

NASCAR Cup Series Championship 2026

Denny Hamlin: +100 (bet $10 to win $20 total)
Ryan Blaney: +550 (bet $10 to win $65 total)
Christopher Bell: +750 (bet $10 to win $85 total)
Tyler Reddick: +750 (bet $10 to win $85 total)
Ty Gibbs: +850 (bet $10 to win $95 total)
Joey Logano: +1400 (bet $10 to win $150 total)
Kyle Larson: +1400 (bet $10 to win $150 total)
Chase Elliott: +1600 (bet $10 to win $170 total)
Chase Briscoe: +1600 (bet $10 to win $170 total)
William Byron: +3000 (bet $10 to win $310 total)
Carson Hocevar: +5000 (bet $10 to win $510 total)
Bubba Wallace: +6000 (bet $10 to win $610 total)
Chris Buescher: +7000 (bet $10 to win $710 total)
Shane van Gisbergen: +57000 (bet $10 to win $710 total)
Daniel Suárez: +10000 (bet $10 to win $1,010 total)
Brad Keselowski: +10000 (bet $10 to win $1,010 total)
Austin Cindric: +20000 (bet $10 to win $2,010 total)
Ryan Preece: +20000 (bet $10 to win $2,010 total)

Total Race Wins:

Bowman
Over 0.5: -170 (bet $10 to win $15.88 total)
Under 0.5: +125 (bet$10 to win $22.50 total)

Cindric
Over 0.5: -110 (bet $10 to win $19.09 total)
Under 0.5: -120 (bet $10 to win $18.33 total)

Dillon
Over 0.5: +145 (bet $10 to win $24.50 total)
Under 0.5: -200 (bet $10 to win $15 total)

Keselowski
Over 0.5: +100 (bet $10 to win $20 total)
Under 0.5: -135 (bet $10 to win $17.41 total)

Wallace
Over 0.5: -160 (bet $10 to win $16.25 total)
Under 0.5: +120 (bet $10 to win $22 total)

Hocevar
Over 0.5: +130 (bet $10 to win $23 total)
Under 0.5: -175 (bet $10 to win $15.71 total)

Briscoe
Over 2.5: -135 (bet $10 to win $17.41 total)
Under 2.5: +100 (bet $10 to win $20 total)

Elliott
Over 1.5: -120 (bet $10 to win $18.33 total)
Under 1.5: -110 (bet $10 to win $19.09 total)

Buescher
Over 0.5: -200 (bet $10 to win $15 total)
Under 0.5: +150 (bet $10 to win $25 total)

Bell
Over 3.5: +130 (bet $10 to win $23 total)
Under 3.5: -175 (bet $10 to win $15.71 total)

Hamlin
Over 3.5: -110 (bet $10 to win $19.09 total)
Under 3.5: -120 (bet $10 to win $18.33 total)

Logano
Over 2.5: +135 (bet $10 to win $23.50 total)
Under 2.5: -190 (bet $10 to win $15.26 total)

Larson
Over 4.5: +135 (bet $10 to win $23.50 total)
Under 4.5: -190 (bet $10 to win $15.26 total)

Chastain
Over 1.5: +135 (bet $10 to win $23.50 total)
Under 1.5: -180 (bet $10 to win $15.56 total)

Blaney
Over 3.5: +135 (bet $10 to win $23.50 total)
Under 3.5: -185 (bet $10 to win $15.41 total)

Gibbs
Over 3.5: +105 (bet $10 to win $20.50 total)
Under 3.5: -140 (bet $10 to win $17.14 total)

Here’s insight from FOX Sports motorsports insider Bob Pockrass 
(odds as of Jan. 28):

Denny Hamlin
+500 to win the Cup Championship

The driver who had the most wins last year and led until the final laps of the championship race will be a favorite in the new 10-race championship format. Many of the tracks in those 10 fit into Hamlin’s wheelhouse. I know, I know, every season begins with wondering if this year could be the year for Hamlin. This season? It really could be.

Chase Elliott
+850 to win the Cup Championship

Of all the drivers who could thrive in this new championship format that rewards consistency, Elliott possibly tops the list. He wrecked out of only two races last year, and he likes this format, which could go a long way when it comes to performance. Plus, Chevrolet has a new body that should result in improved results.

Brad Keselowski 
Over 0.5 wins

Is Keselowski going to win this year? He only has one win in the last four seasons, and he broke his leg in the offseason. So why should we expect him to win? He had four top-three finishes in the last 19 races of 2025. If he builds on that, he’ll run in the top three enough that he will find a way to earn a trophy.

Kyle Larson 
Under 4.5 wins

This is a tough one. Larson has only earned more than four wins just twice in his career. The Next Gen car makes things so even, that there is more parity. Getting to four wins seems so much more attainable than five, especially in a points system where the risk-vs-reward for a bold move is more dramatic. 

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NASCAR is returning to The Chase postseason format. So which drivers are in, out or on the bubble?

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If Lane Kiffin coached in the Big Ten, he’d have a problem.

That’s because the Big Ten Conference has passed a rule that prevents players who declared for the NFL Draft and didn’t withdraw, appeared on an NFL roster or were part of another professional league from playing in the conference, ESPN reported on Tuesday morning. The action was unanimously approved by Big Ten athletic directors.

Later on Tuesday, the Big Ten released a statement addressing the decision.

“The Big Ten Conference announced Tuesday the unanimous adoption of a conference rule to prohibit football players who have signed a professional contract, were on a professional roster at any point or declared for the NFL Draft as an underclassman without withdrawing, from maintaining eligibility for athletic competition at a conference institution.

“The conference continues to evaluate potential rules restricting professional athletes in other sports from conference competition.”

Anthony Hankerson during the Miami Dolphins training camp in July. (Photo by Doug Murray/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

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To keep coaches from even considering circumventing this new policy, the Big Ten also confirmed to The Athletic that any coach who plays one of the now-prohibited players would be suspended for half the season, and incur an institutional fine.

This comes in the wake of several players who appeared on NFL rosters this summer going back to school to play college football, with temporary restraining orders being granted to 16 players in Louisiana, allowing individuals who graduated from high school in 2022 to play a fifth collegiate season.

On that front, the aforementioned Kiffin has added three players to his roster at LSU this month who each played for him on the Ole Miss Rebels last season: tight end Dae’Quan Wright, defensive tackle Zxavian Thomas and safety Wydatt Williams.

Dae’Quan Wright during the Philadelphia Eagles training camp in August. (Photo by Terence Lewis/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

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Elsewhere, former Oregon State Beavers running back Anthony Hankerson is expected to return to college after being waived by the Seattle Seahawks, with whom he played for in the NFL preseason.

After a videoconference, the SEC released a statement of its own on the matter on Monday night.

“College athletes, not former professional athletes, have been at the heart of the Southeastern Conference,” the statement read. “Individuals who choose to leave college athletics, sign professional playing contracts, and compete professionally should not then be permitted to return to college competition. Allowing that to occur will blur the line between college and professional sports, create significant competitive equity concerns, and reduce opportunities for high school and current college athletes.

“College sports are for college athletes. The current confusion around national eligibility standards emphasizes the need to advance the Protect College Sports Act.”

The Protect College Sports Act is a bipartisan federal bill that’s designed to establish guardrails regarding name, image and likeness (NIL) and college eligibility.

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Both Denny Hamlin and Ryan Blaney had issues on pit road at New Hampshire Motor Speedway and both overcame them to get the job done.

Blaney won the race, while Hamlin clinched the regular-season title. So Blaney jumped up these rankings, while Hamlin is firmly in control of the top spot.

Here are my power rankings entering the regular-season finale Saturday at Daytona International Speedway.

Dropped out: William Byron (Last Week: 7)

On the verge: Chris Buescher, William Byron, Austin Cindric, Chase Elliott, Ryan Preece, Zane Smith

10.

Wallace has bounced in and out of these rankings throughout the year. A second-place finish at New Hampshire puts him on the list. Also, he’s all but secured a spot for himself in The Chase.

9.

Logano got involved in the Carson Hocevar-Connor Zilisch skirmish and rallied to finish 14th. It was not a great finish but still respectable. He also clinched a Chase spot.

8.

A spin on the opening lap could have ruined Reddick’s day but he came back to finish eighth. That’s not where he should finish after winning the pole. But he rebounded from the spin so it’s hard to complain about that.

7.

Larson finished fifth at Loudon and now has back-to-back top-six finishes. Maybe he’s finding his groove just in time with The Chase around the corner.

6.

Berry, still looking for a ride for 2027, was third at New Hampshire for his fourth consecutive finish of eighth or better. It’s been a great turnaround for Berry. Unfortunately, it’s a little too late.

5.

Gibbs finished sixth for his sixth top-10 finish in his last eight races. He is still carrying a little bit of momentum from the Iowa victory a couple of weeks ago.

4.

Briscoe had a disappointing 26th-place finish after he couldn’t capitalize on an attempt to gain track position with a two-tire stop. 

3.

Blaney earned his third victory of the season at New Hampshire. Now, questions loom about if this team will be preoccupied with the state of its pit crew ahead of The Chase.

2.

Bell, typically strong at New Hampshire, finished fourth on Sunday. It was his sixth top-five finish in the last eight races. Bell and Larson are probably the two drivers without wins who could be considered championship threats.

1.

Hamlin was seventh at Loudon and now that he has clinched the regular-season title and the top Chase seed, he can go to Daytona without any worries.

WHAT YOU SHOULD READ NEXT

NASCAR is returning to The Chase postseason format. So which drivers are in, out or on the bubble?

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Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase reportedly exited practice Tuesday after suffering an apparent knee injury during team drills. 

Chase held his knee and received attention from athletic trainers on the field after going down during a play.

After practice ended, Chase spoke to reporters, “It’s just a freak accident. Stuff like this happens all the time. It’s football. Some things are out of my control, and that was one situation that I couldn’t control, but I can control now,” Chase said. “If I had a game tomorrow, I’d play.”

Chase told ESPN 1530 Cincinnati he’s “fine” and the injury was a minor “hyperextension.”

According to multiple reporters in attendance, Chase walked off the field under his own power. He continued to stretch his leg on the sideline and was later seen walking without assistance. Chase did not require a cart or further medical treatment on the field.

The Bengals have not provided an official update regarding the injury.

Losing Chase for any duration would present a challenge for the Bengals offense, as his connection with quarterback Joe Burrow has formed the core of the passing game since Chase was drafted in 2021.

Behind Chase, the Bengals wide receiver depth chart includes Tee Higgins, Andrei Iosivas, Colbie Young, Mitch Tinsley and Charlie Jones.

An extended absence for Chase would also increase defensive pressure on Higgins, who would likely see more double coverage as the top target and running back Chase Brown, another key contributor on offense. While Iosivas has stepped into a complementary role in recent seasons, the Cincinnati passing game relies primarily on Chase and Higgins to generate the majority of its production.

The Bengals open their season against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sept. 13.

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The business end of the annual Leagues Cup tournament between the best teams in MLS and their counterparts in Mexico’s Liga MX is here.

The original field of 36 teams — 18 from each side of the Rio Grande — has been whittled down to eight, with the single-elimination quarterfinals kicking off on Tuesday before concluding with a pair of nationally televised games on Wednesday night.

Here’s an in-depth look at the four matchups, plus my picks to reach next week’s final four.

Tuesday, Aug. 25

Monterrey vs. Chicago Fire (8:30 p.m. ET, Apple TV)

The Fire went a perfect 3-0 in the first round — or Phase 1 — of the tournament, and have steadily improved under second-year coach Gregg Berhalter, who led the U.S. national team to the knockout stage at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

Once one of MLS’s marquee franchises, Chicago returned to the playoffs last fall after an eight-season drought, and Berhalter’s team — which recently signed legendary Polish striker Robert Lewandowski from Barcelona — is currently third in the Eastern Conference, three points behind Lionel Messi-led Inter Miami with a game in hand.

(Photo by Jessie Alcheh/Getty Images) –>

Los Rayados will be Lewandowski & Co.’s toughest opponent yet. Monterrey is third in Liga MX’s Apertura standings, and while they’re back in the Leagues Cup quarterfinals for the first time since 2023, when they advanced to the final four, they have both the pedigree of a club that boasts five Mexican and five Concacaf titles all-time and prolific former Fire forward Hugo Cuypers, who headed south of the border shortly after Lewandowski’s arrival and will surely be extra motivated to eliminate his ex-employers.

Still, Chicago is the lone quarter-finalist hosting a home match as opposed to playing at a neutral site. That’s a significant advantage even if the contest will be held at the club’s former home stadium in Bridgeview, Illinois instead of Soldier Field — and a major reason why MLS sides have won all three editions of the Leagues Cup since the expanded format was introduced in 2023.

Pick: Fire

Léon vs. Real Salt Lake (10:30 p.m. ET, Apple TV)

–>

Not only will RSL not be at their usual home in Sandy, Utah, Tuesday’s nightcap will be staged at the stadium of their chief MLS rival, the Colorado Rapids: in even thinner air than the Claret and Cobalt usually play in at the foot of the Wasatch Range, with a sea of green in the stands as Léon supporters are expected to make up the bulk of those in attendance.

That’s part of the reason Pablo Mastroeni rested 10 starters over the weekend in Orlando to have them fresh for Léon — especially with RSL just one point above the playoff line in MLS’s Western Conference. With no guarantee of even getting the chance to make a title run in league play, prioritizing the Leagues Cup is a no-brainer, given that just reaching the final would be enough to secure a spot in next season’s Concacaf Champions Cup. Winning would snare RSL a round of 16 berth in addition to $2 million in prize money.

(Photo by Tyler Tate/Getty Images)

–>

The same goes for Léon. Los Esmeraldas are in a similar situation to RSL, just one point above the playoff line in Mexico and in danger of missing out on the Liguilla entirely.But Léon is the team in better form, having won six consecutive matches across both Liga MX and Leagues Cup. Add in the fact that RSL just sold prize teenager and U.S. men’s national team prospect Zavier Gozo to Premier League mainstay Crystal Palace, and this mountain is probably too tall for Diego Luna and his teammates to scale.

Pick: Léon

Wednesday, Aug. 26

Toluca vs. Austin FC (8:30 p.m. ET, FS1/FOX One/Apple TV)

Wednesday’s neutral site action gets underway far from both central Mexico and central Texas, in (of all places) Harrison, New Jersey. That’s not likely to keep Toluca fans based all over the East Coast from coming out to support their team at the New York Red Bulls’ Sports Illustrated Stadium. Toluca, the Apertura and Clausura champions in 2025, are having another fine season in domestic play, trailing only Atlas and Liga MX  leaders Club América five matches into the new campaign.

Although Austin stunned América on penalties to reach the last eight, upsetting theRed Devils to reach the Leagues Cup semis would be the highlight of an otherwise miserable season. Los Verdes fired coach Nico Estévez in May; they still sit 28th out of 30 MLS teams in the Supporters Shield standings. With Austin almost certain to miss the playoffs for the third time in four years, Toluca ought to get their best game. Even that might not be enough.

Pick: Toluca

(Photo by Agustin Cuevas/Getty Images) –>

Club América vs. Columbus Crew (10:30 p.m. ET, FS1/FOX One/Apple TV)

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The marquee match of the knockout stage pits Liga MX’s most successful, most popular and richest club — the Mexico City-based Aguilas — against the 2024 Leagues Cup champion Crew.

This will be an away game for Columbus.

With the LA Galaxy’s 27,000-seat Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, Calif. assigned hosting duties, the venue will be packed to the gills by fans proudly clad in yellow — and not for the three-time MLS Cup winners.

They’d have their hands full even in Ohio’s capital.

(Photo by Manuel Guadarrama/Getty Images)

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It’s been a nightmare 2026 for Columbus, which has won just five of its 21 MLS games this season and is 15th — dead last — in the East.

The Crew, which just sold USA World Cup defender Max Arfsten to English second-tier team Middlesbrough, has lost three straight games going into Wednesday’s encounter.

Meantime, América is all alone atop Liga MX’s Apertura table and the prohibitive favorite to claim its 17th Mexican title later this year. No wonder Los Aguilas are the bookies’ overwhelming pick to advance even without their No. 10 — Arfsten’s U.S. teammate Alex Zendejas, who is still recovering from post-World Cup knee surgery.

Pick: Club América

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Michigan sports betting is legal online and in person. Mobile betting launched on January 22, 2021, and Detroit casinos began retail wagering on March 11, 2020. You can place wagers through licensed apps statewide or at approved retail sportsbooks. As of January 2026, the regulator reports 12 operators offer internet sports betting in Michigan. This guide covers the essentials: Michigan sportsbook promos, the best sportsbook apps, how to start betting, local sports teams to know, and key legal facts so you can get set up quickly.

Michigan Sports Betting Overview

• Online Launch Date: January 2021
• Online Sportsbooks Available: 13
•  Retail Sports Betting: Legal (commercial & tribal casinos)
•  Legal Betting Age: 21+
•  College Sports Betting: Permitted (no major restrictions)
•  Online Casinos: Legal

Is Michigan Sports Betting Legal?

Yes. Sports betting has been legal in Michigan since March 2020 for retail sportsbooks and January 2021 for online betting under the Lawful Sports Betting Act, which was signed in December 2019. Regulation is handled by the Michigan Gaming Control Board. You can wager online or on mobile with licensed operators, and in person at commercial and tribal casinos. You must be 21 or older and physically located within Michigan, with geolocation used to verify your location. 

Top Michigan Sportsbook Apps Ranked & Reviewed

Michigan’s online market is competitive, with several major national operators live statewide. While more sportsbooks may enter over time, this section focuses on the top six based on market share, app quality, promotions, and betting features. 

DrafKings Michigan

• Best known for: deep market depth, fast live pricing, and one of the most polished apps.
• DraftKings launched in Michigan on January 22, 2021, and is a national market leader known for deep betting menus and fast live pricing.
• Welcome offer: Bet $5 and Get $200 in Bonus Bets Instantly. No code required.
• App experience & notable features: iOS rating 4.8/5 (847K+ ratings); live betting hub, SGPs, wide prop catalog
• Final take: choose DraftKings if you want the broadest menu and fast, reliable live markets on MI teams.

FanDuel Michigan

• Best known for: the most intuitive Same Game Parlay builder and strong live markets.
• FanDuel went live in Michigan on January 22, 2021, and is widely regarded as a top national operator with an intuitive app and strong same-game parlay tools.
• Welcome offer: Bet $5 Get $350 in Bet Reset Tokens for 7 Days. No code required.
• App experience & notable features: iOS rating 4.8/5 (847K+ ratings); live betting hub, SGPs, wide prop catalog
• Final take: pick FanDuel if you value a slick app and elite parlay tools with instant payout previews.

BetMGM Michigan

• Best known for: Frequent profit boosts and broad SGP options and MGM Rewards integration for hotel and resort perks.
• BetMGM launched in Michigan on January 22, 2021, and is a major U.S. brand backed by MGM Resorts with robust markets and MGM Rewards integration.
• Welcome offer: Bet $10, Get $150 in Bonus Bets if You Win + $50 in BetMGM Rewards Points
• App experience & notable features: iOS rating 4.8/5 (~240K ratings); live betting, cash-out, wide sport coverage.
• Final take: if you value boosts and MGM Rewards status, BetMGM is a strong secondary book in MI even when a first-time promo isn’t running.

Fanatics Sportsbook Michigan

• Best known for: FanCash rewards that convert to bonus bets or merchandise and steady football-season promos.
• Fanatics Sportsbook debuted in Michigan on February 22, 2024, and is growing nationally with its FanCash rewards and clean, modern app.
• Welcome offer: Bet $20, Get $350 Bonus Bets using promo code FOX2026.
• App experience & notable features: iOS rating 4.8/5 (138K+ ratings); clean UI, live betting, responsible gaming tooling.
• Final take: a great add for rewards hunters, especially during football season, with daily FanCash value even in MI’s tighter promo environment.

bet365 Michigan

• Best known for: elite in-play betting, early-payout features, vast global menus, and very robust alternate totals/spreads.
• bet365 launched in Colorado on April 17, 2026, and is globally respected for best-in-class live betting, streaming, and deep alternate lines.
• Welcome offer: Bet $10, Get $365 in Bonus Bets with Code “FOX365”
• App experience & notable features: iOS rating 4.8/5 (189K+ ratings); strong live betting hub with rapid markets and useful in-game stats.
• Final take: stands out for best-in-class live betting with fast odds updates, deep markets, and integrated live streaming that makes in-game wagering seamless.

Caesars Michigan

• Best known for: daily “Super Boosts” and frequent promos and Caesars Rewards credits on eligible wagers.
• Caesars has operated in Michigan since 2021 following the William Hill rebrand, and it is a nationally recognized book tied to the Caesars Rewards program.
• Welcome offer: Bet $1, Double Your Winnings Your Next 10 Wagers with Code ‘FOXDYW’
• App experience & notable features: iOS rating 4.7/5 (89K+ ratings); SGPs, live betting, simplified navigation.
• Final take: if you want steady boosts and a national rewards program that ties into Vegas stays, Caesars is a solid rotation book in MI.

All Legal MI Sportsbooks

• bet365 Sportsbook
• BetMGM Sportsbook
• BetRivers Sportsbook
• Caesars Sportsbook
• DraftKings Sportsbook
• Eagle Casino & Sports
• theScoreBet (formerly ESPN Bet)
• Fanatics Sportsbook
• FanDuel Sportsbook
• FireKeepers Sportsbook
• Four Winds Sportsbook
• Play Gun Lake Sportsbook (BetPARX)
• SI Sportsbook

How We Rank the Best MI Sports Betting Apps

With so many sportsbooks available in Michigan, we rely on a consistent set of factors to determine which apps stand out from the competition. Each ranking is based on the following criteria:

Odds Competitiveness: We look at how often a sportsbook posts the best lines compared to its rivals, since even small differences in odds can impact long-term profitability.

Bonus Offers & Ongoing Promotions: We evaluate the value of the welcome bonus for new users as well as the quality and frequency of ongoing promotions for existing customers.

Market Depth & Variety: We consider the overall range of betting options, from major U.S. leagues to niche sports and international markets.

User Experience & Mobile App Performance: We examine how smoothly the app runs, focusing on navigation, stability, and how easy it is to place bets quickly.

Banking & Payout Speed: We assess how many deposit and withdrawal options are available and how quickly players can expect to receive their winnings.

Live Betting Features: We analyze the strength of in-play betting, including the speed of odds updates, the availability of live streaming, and access to real-time stats.

Customer Support: We review the accessibility and responsiveness of support, whether through live chat, phone, or email, to ensure players can get help when they need it.

Best MI Sportsbook Promos & Welcome Offers (August 2026)

Right now in Michigan, new users can unlock roughly $400+ in upfront value by stacking the biggest Bet & Get–style deals. Claim the welcome promos first, then decide which app you prefer for live betting, parlays, and props. Always check the in-app terms before placing your qualifying wager, since amounts and eligibility can change.

DraftKings Sportsbook MI Promo – Bet $5 and Get $200 in Bonus Bets Instantly

Offer Summary: 

• Bet $5, Get $200 in Bonus Bets Instantly.
• Who’s Eligible: New customers must Must be physically located in AR, AZ, CO, CT, DC, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA (select parishes), MA, MD, ME, MI, MO, NC, NJ, NH, NY, OH, OR, PA, PR (residents only), TN, VA, VT, WY or WV. Must be 21+ years of age or older (18+ if in DC/KY/NH/WY).
• Qualifying Bet: $5+ cash bet at -500 odds or longer using the New Customer Token.
• Bonus: Get $200 in Bonus Bets (8×$25) if your bet wins.
• Expiration: Bonus Bets valid for 7 days.
• One per customer; void/cashed-out bets don’t qualify.

Key Details:

• Minimum deposit $5, qualifying bet $5+.
• “Bet and Get” structure, bonus credits paid instantly after placing the qualifier.
• Bonus bets expire per in-app terms.

Standout Perk: 

• Guaranteed $200 in Bonus Bets

Quick How-to-Claim:

1. Sign up for a new DraftKings Sportsbook account.
2. Deposit funds (minimum $5).
3. Select the New Customer Token.
4. Place a $5+ cash bet (-500 odds or longer).
5. Instantly get $200 in Bonus Bets.

FanDuel Sportsbook MI Promo – Bet $5 Get $350 in Bet Reset Tokens for 7 Days

Offer Summary:

• Bet $5 Get $350 in Bet Reset Tokens for 7 Days

Key Details:

• New users must create and verify a FanDuel account during the promotion period.
• Place a qualifying $5 wager on any eligible FanDuel Sportsbook market each day for 7 days.
• Earn one Bet Reset Token per qualifying day, up to 6 total tokens, for up to $350 in value.

Standout Perk:

• Instead of a one-time reward, this promo delivers daily Bet Reset Tokens that protect each $5 wager, with up to $50 back in Bonus Bets per day if the bet loses, giving new users repeated downside protection across seven straight days.

Quick How-to-Claim:

1. Click here and create and verify a new FanDuel account.
2. Deposit at least $5 and place a $5+ wager each day for 7 days.
3. Use your Bet Reset Token on each wager to activate protection and earn Bonus Bets if it loses.

BetMGM MI Promo – Bet $10, Get $150 in Bonus Bets if You Win + $50 in BetMGM Rewards Points

Offer Summary:

• Bet $10, Get $150 in Bonus Bets if You Win + $50 in BetMGM Rewards Points

Key Details:

• Must be a new BetMGM Sportsbook user.
• Minimum $10 deposit and first wager of $10 or more required.
• Qualifying bet must be placed within 7 days of registration.
• Bonus Bets are credited only if the initial wager wins.
• Bonus Bets are non-withdrawable and must be used within 7 days.
• One welcome offer per customer; cannot combine with other new-user promos.

Standout Perk:

• High ceiling on protection, useful if you want to take a bigger first swing.

Quick How-to-Claim:

• Click this link to claim the offer. Enter promo code FOXSPORTS, register a new account and deposit at least $10, place your first bet of $10+ at standard odds, if it wins, you’ll receive $150 in Bonus Bets in addition to your cash payout.

Fanatics Sportsbook MI Promo – Bet $20, Get $350 Bonus Bets using promo code FOX2026

Offer Summary:

• New customers can bet $20, Get $350 Bonus Bets with promo code FOX2026.

Key Details:

• New users must use promo code FOX2026 and opt in each day.
• Place a $20+ cash wager at -500 odds or longer within the first 7 days.
• Earn $50 in FanCash each day you qualify, up to $350 total.
• FanCash expires 24 hours after issuance.

Standout Perk:

• Earn $50 in FanCash for seven straight days, giving new users multiple chances to earn up to $350.

Quick How-to-Claim:

1. Click here and create a new Fanatics Sportsbook account.
2. Use promo code FOX2026 and toggle on the promotion.
3. Place a $20+ cash wager at -500 odds or longer.
4. Opt in each day to claim $50 in FanCash.
5. Repeat for seven days to earn up to $350 in FanCash.

Caesars Sportsbook MI Promo – Bet $1, Double Your Winnings Your Next 10 Wagers with Code ‘FOXDYW’ 

Offer Summary:

• Bet $1, Double Your Winnings Your Next 10 Wagers with Code ‘FOXDYW’

Key Details:

• Minimum qualifying wager $1+ after signing up with promo code FOXDYW.
• Not a Bet-and-Get or insurance offer — the bonus comes as 10× 100% Profit Boost tokens.
• Each boost allows a max $25 wager and expires 14 days after being awarded.

Standout Perk:

• Multiple profit boosts give bettors flexibility to enhance winnings across several wagers rather than relying on a single welcome bet.

How-to-Claim:

1. Create a new Caesars Sportsbook account using promo code FOXDYW.
2. Verify your account and deposit funds.
3. Place a $1+ cash wager on any eligible market.
4. Receive 10 × 100% Profit Boost tokens in your account.
5. Apply the boosts to wagers (up to $25 each) within 14 days to increase potential winnings.

bet365 MI Promo – Bet $10, Get $365 in Bonus Bets 

Offer Summary:

• Bet $10 and Get $365 in Bonus Bets Win or Lose with Code ‘FOX365’

Key Details:

• Minimum deposit of $10 and made in the seven days prior to you claiming the offer.
• Consists of: Getting $365 in Bonus Bets. It doesn’t matter if the bet wins or loses.
• Bonus Bet expiration: 30 days after registering your account.

Standout Perk:

• Includes $365 of Bonus Bets regardless of whether your bet wins or loses.

Quick How-to-Claim:

• Sign up, deposit $10+, place your first $10 wager, and get Bonus Bets.

Minimum $10 deposit required. Minimum odds -500 of greater. Bonus Bets wager excluded from returns. New customers only. T&CS, time limits and exclusions apply.

How to Start Betting on Sports in Michigan

1. Choose a Legal MI Sportsbook

Compare welcome bonuses, odds quality, and app UX. Check for Lions, Pistons, or Red Wings promos.

 2. Register Online

Michigan allows remote sign-up. You’ll typically enter: full name, email, date of birth, last 4 of SSN, and physical address. Verify location and age (21+).

 3. Claim a Welcome Bonus

Click the “claim” button on this page to opt in. Read the terms and conditions for minimum odds, qualifying bet, and expiry.

4. Deposit Funds

Common MI methods: credit and debit card, online banking/ACH, PayPal, Venmo, Apple Pay, Play+ prepaid.

5. Place Your First Bet

Example: bet $5 on the Lions to win at DraftKings to unlock bonus bets. You can also try a simple total or moneyline.

6. Withdraw Winnings

Payout options usually include online banking/ACH, PayPal, Venmo, and Play+. E-wallets often pay fastest, while bank transfers can take longer. Check processing times in the app’s cashier.

Benefits of Signing Up for Multiple Michigan Sportsbooks

Claim Multiple Welcome Bonuses– By creating accounts at several sportsbooks, you can stack multiple sign-up promotions and significantly increase your starting bankroll.

Shop for the Best Odds– Having access to more than one sportsbook allows you to compare lines and always choose the most favorable odds, which can maximize your potential winnings.

Access Unique App Features– Different apps offer different strengths, from parlay builders to live streaming, and signing up for multiple sportsbooks lets you take advantage of each operator’s standout tools.

Take Advantage of Diverse Promos– Sportsbooks run recurring odds boosts, profit boosts, and sport-specific promotions, and using multiple apps ensures you never miss out on the best deal available at any given time.

Backup in Case of Technical Issues– If one app is down during a major game or has technical problems, having accounts with other sportsbooks gives you a reliable backup option to continue betting without interruption.

Michigan Sports Betting Handle

The betting handle is the total amount of money wagered with legal sportsbooks over a given period. It counts every dollar staked before any winnings are paid out. Handle is not the sportsbook’s revenue. Revenue equals handle minus payouts, and the hold (or win rate) is revenue divided by handle.

Quick example: if bettors place $200 million in wagers and sportsbooks pay out $188 million, revenue is $12 million and the hold is 6%.

Year	Handle	Revenue	Hold	Taxes
2020	$131M	$18.3M	14%	$1.54M
2021	$3.97B	$320M	8.05%	$13.6M
2022	$4.81B	$419M	8.71%	$22.6M
2023	$4.81B	$434M	9.02%	$23.6M
2024	$5.51B	$470M	8.53%	$21.2M

Michigan Sports Betting Restrictions: What You Can’t Bet On

Michigan offers a wide range of legal sports betting options, but there are a few clear restrictions to keep in mind. Bettors cannot wager on in-state college teams or college events that take place within Michigan. This means you can’t bet on Michigan or Michigan State games played inside the state, or on college tournaments hosted within Michigan’s borders. This rule is designed to protect the integrity of amateur athletics at the local level.

Betting on high school sports is strictly prohibited. This includes individual games, player props, or any outcomes tied to high school teams or athletes. Like most states, Michigan draws a firm line between professional and amateur levels to maintain fair play and prevent integrity issues.

Additionally, sportsbooks in Michigan are not allowed to offer wagers on political elections or events. This includes both U.S. and international political markets. All legal wagering in the state must be tied to approved sporting events regulated by the Michigan Gaming Control Board.

Responsible Gaming in Michigan

Sports betting should be enjoyable and fit your budget. If gambling is affecting you or someone you know, confidential help is available in Michigan and nationwide. Most sportsbooks also offer deposit limits, time-outs, and self-exclusion to help you stay in control.

Help and resources:

• Michigan Problem Gambling Helpline: 1-800-270-7117 (24/7, confidential, free)
• Michigan Gaming Control Board – Responsible Gaming: mgcb.michigan.gov/responsible-gaming
• Michigan Dept. of Health & Human Services – Problem Gambling Services: michigan.gov/mdhhs/problem-gambling
• National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) – ncpgambling.org  | 1-800-522-4700 | Text “HELP” to 800-522-4700 | Live Chat: ncpgambling.org/chat
• Gamblers Anonymous – gamblersanonymous.org  | 1-855-222-5542

Michigan Sports Betting FAQ

Is online sports betting legal in Michigan?

• Yes. Online sports betting has been legal in Michigan since January 2021, following the launch of regulated online casinos and sportsbooks in the state. Bettors can place wagers through licensed mobile apps and websites overseen by the Michigan Gaming Control Board.

What is the legal betting age in MI?

• The legal sports betting age in Michigan is 21. Age verification is required when creating an account with any licensed sportsbook.

Can I bet on college sports in MI?

• Yes, you can bet on college sports in Michigan, but there are restrictions. Wagers on in-state college teams or college events held within Michigan are not allowed. For example, you can’t bet on Michigan or Michigan State games played in-state.

Which sportsbooks are available in Michigan?

• Michigan has a competitive sports betting market with more than a dozen licensed operators. Major brands include DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, Caesars, PointsBet, and Fanatics, among others.

Do I need to be in MI to place a bet?

• Yes. You must be physically located within Michigan state lines to place a legal online wager. Sportsbooks use geo-location technology to verify your location before accepting bets.

Are there retail sportsbooks in MI?

• Yes. In addition to mobile betting, Michigan has numerous retail sportsbooks located in commercial casinos in Detroit and tribal casinos throughout the state. These venues offer in-person wagering, often with dedicated betting lounges and kiosks.

Gambling disclaimer: Only individuals aged 21 and over are permitted to gamble. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem and wants help, call 1-800-GAMBLER. Gambling is subject to local state regulation and is illegal in some states. Please gamble responsibly – information relating to responsible gambling can be found here.

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