By Ryan Bologna
The sports betting industry has seen tremendous growth over the last few years, and many are trying to capitalize. Add ESPN to that list, as the broadcasting company is greatly expanding its betting content. There will be new programs and an overall increased frequency of betting segments. Some familiar faces will be seen in new roles, most notably Doug Kezirian as ESPN’s new sports betting insider.
When you think of ESPN insiders, you probably think of Adam Schefter, Adrian Wojnarowski, or Jeff Passan. Those insiders cover the NFL, NBA, and MLB. ESPN views it as essential to break news for each of those leagues. Kezirian’s role as sports betting insider is similar.
As you see with those other insiders, Kezirian will be making appearances on many television and radio shows that ESPN has. Kezirian will also give betting advice through written columns on Saturdays and Sundays throughout the football season. Whether you’re looking for some last-minute betting advice or some insights from someone who has been immersed in the betting industry for decades, Kezirian is your guy.
The fact that ESPN sees the importance of having a betting insider is significant. It validates the idea that betting is an integral part of the sports industry. This is a stark contrast to a couple of years ago when betting wasn’t discussed much at all on sports programming. The most you would see is Brent Musburger subtly hinting at the spread of a game. People within the sports industry knew the landscape would change dramatically after the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act was repealed in 2018. This is just the latest example of change happening.
Kezirian has been the host of ESPN’s betting news and information show called the Daily Wager since March 2019. Kezirian will still appear on the show four times a week, but betting analyst Tyler Fulgham will be taking over as host.
ESPN will be adding new betting content on various platforms as well. Betting analyst Joe Fortenbaugh will be starting up a new digital show/podcast in addition to his current role of contributing to Daily Wager and other shows.
Erin Dolan will be hosting a show called Bet With Erin Dolan on Snapchat every Monday. Many sportsbooks have used Snapchat to promote their services. ESPN putting betting content on the app will facilitate even more growth for the betting industry.
Expect more editorial content related to betting from ESPN as well. Notably, on Fridays, ESPN’s betting analysts will combine to produce NFL betting tips columns.
ESPN had already embraced sports betting before, but these latest changes show that the broadcasting company sees a great opportunity in producing more betting content.
