Replacement Refs’ Controversial Call in Seahawks-Packers Game Reportedly Led to Up to $250 Million in Bets Shifted

by abournenesn

Sep 25, 2012

Replacement Refs' Controversial Call in Seahawks-Packers Game Reportedly Led to Up to $250 Million in Bets ShiftedMany football fans are calling Golden Tate's game-winning touchdown reception against the Packers on Monday Night Football this week the worst call in NFL history. Those in the gambling community are calling it one of the most expensive calls in recent memory.

The call lead to between $150 million and $250 million in bets shifted, according to ESPN.

"Most of the customers in the sports book were not happy with the final call," said John Avello, director of the race and sports book at the Wynn in Las Vegas. "The shift was 100 percent. After the [Seahawks] scored, all bets were reversed."

The Packers were 3.5-point favorites heading into the matchup in Seattle and would have covered if the refs called the final play in favor of the Pack.

Mike Perry of Sportsbook.ag told ESPN.com that 70 percent to 80 percent of the money on his site was put on the Packers. He estimates that the money swing on the call is between $200 million and $250 million.

At Mandalay Bay, the sportsbook took in about $500,000 in total bets, with about 85 percent of the money on the Packers.

"It's the first call that has directly affected the outcome, but there have been many that have affected the outcome or the spread directly," Avello said.

At least one sportsbook is trying to make right. Read more here >>

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