Caesars Race & Sportsbook at Harrah’s Las Vegas had a reopening of their renovated sportsbook on June 29, and Baltimore Ravens Hall of Famer Jonathan Ogden was the special guest. The ribbon-cutting and ceremonial first bet included Ogden placing a $50 bet on the Ravens to win Super Bowl LVII on Feb. 12, 2023, in Glendale, Arizona.
Ogden played his entire 12-year NFL career with the Baltimore Ravens after being the organization’s first draft pick and No. 4 overall in the first round of the 1996 NFL Draft. Ogden appeared in 177 games for the Ravens and played in 11 Pro Bowls. He was a member of the 2000 team that went 12-4, winning Super Bowl XXXV over the New York Giants.
Ogden was the steamroller up front on offense that protected the quarterback. He was also the dominant left tackle who paved the way for Jamal Lewis to rush for a near-NFL record of 2,066 yards during the 2003 season.
Ogden’s thoughts on Maryland sports betting
Having lived in Las Vegas since 1999, Ogden is an avid supporter of sports betting and the revenues it brings to the states and NFL. But especially for the fans with engagement and entertainment.
“People love to bet on the games, and especially football,” he said. “Fans have been wondering why they can’t place a few bucks on their favorites teams, and legal sports betting is a positive step forward and long overdue. It’s a win-win for everyone.”
Legal online sports betting, however, does not exist in Maryland. Residents are restricted to placing bets in person at five of the six casinos in the state.
Ogden indicated he’s hopeful the discussions surrounding draft regulations and applications for mobile sports betting in Maryland will move forward to allow more fans greater and easier access to bet on the games and their favorite teams like the Ravens.
PlayMaryland is here to help you make sense of the latest news.
The Jonathan Odgen Foundation
Established in 1996, the Jonathan Ogden Foundation is based in Baltimore. It’s a charitable organization that aims to assist young people in disadvantaged communities to develop self-esteem through athletics and education. Ogden is involved in charitable work and still visits a few months a year to support the city.
Having a sports betting partner like Caesars, who has partnered with Horseshoe Casino in Baltimore and the Baltimore Ravens for access to Maryland’s sports betting market, is like having Odgen in front of you as a running back going for a touchdown inside the 2-yard line.
“Caesars has always supported me and my events,” he said gratefully. “Sports betting is here to stay, and Caesars is a good company and proven brand.”
Should the Ravens win the Super Bowl, the $1,000 return will go to Ogden’s foundation.
Baltimore Ravens odds
At Caesars Sportsbook, the Baltimore Ravens’ odds are currently +2000, or 20/1, to win the 2023 Super Bowl. They are the favorite to win the AFC North at +120 odds, ahead of the Bengals (+220), Browns (+300) and Steelers (+800).
Baltimore is -125 to win at least 10 games, and its season over/under win total sits at 10. The Ravens are also -160 to make the playoffs and +140 to miss the postseason.
Ogden believes the Ravens, “if they can stay healthy,” are set for a solid season in 2022. Last season, former league MVP Lamar Jackson, left tackle Ronnie Stanley and CB Marlon Humphrey all suffered injuries, among others.
After 11 games, the Ravens were 8-3, largely due to Jackson’s ability to cover up weaknesses. Jackson then got hurt in Week 14 and never returned that season. The Ravens ended 2021 on a six-game losing streak and surprisingly missed the playoffs.
The Ravens’ 2022 regular season schedule begins with four games against the AFC East. Back-to-back Sunday games in Weeks 4 and 5 to start October against the Bills and Bengals are noteworthy games for Ravens fans. Four division games in the final five weeks, including two against the Steelers, could determine the Ravens’ fate in the division and potential playoff position.
