Is college sports betting legal in Maryland?
Yes. College sports betting is legal in Maryland, but it comes with specific restrictions that differ from professional sports.
You can legally place bets on:
Major college football and basketball games
National college tournaments
Out-of-state college teams
Futures involving college teams
However, Maryland applies tighter controls to protect amateur athletes and local institutions.
What college bets are allowed?
In Maryland, sportsbooks typically allow:
Game winners (moneyline)
Point spreads
Totals (over/under)
Team-based bets
Futures (conference titles, championships)
You can bet on national events like bowl games, March Madness, and playoff matchups.
These markets are widely available across all licensed Maryland sportsbooks.
What college bets are restricted?
Maryland places limits on certain player-specific college bets.
Common restrictions include:
No player props on individual college athletes
No bets targeting single-player performance
Restrictions on some in-state college events
These rules exist to reduce integrity risks and athlete pressure.
Professional sports do not have these limitations.
Betting on Maryland college teams
Maryland-based teams attract strong local interest, but betting options may be narrower.
Depending on the sportsbook, you may see:
Full game markets
Limited prop availability
No individual player stats
This varies by operator and event, but restrictions are enforced at the state level.
Always check market availability before placing a wager.
Why college betting rules are stricter
College athletes are not professionals. They do not receive salaries and are considered more vulnerable to external influence.
Maryland’s framework is designed to:
Protect amateur athletes
Prevent integrity issues
Limit targeting of individuals
Maintain fair competition
These rules align with broader U.S. regulatory trends.
How to bet responsibly on college sports
If you plan to bet on college events:
Focus on team-based markets
Avoid chasing limited prop options
Use smaller stakes
Treat college betting differently than pro sports
College lines can move quickly and may be less predictable.
Legal requirements recap
To bet on college sports in Maryland, you must:
Be 21 or older
Be physically located in Maryland
Use a licensed sportsbook
Follow state-specific market restrictions
If a market is not offered, it is not allowed.
Looking to bet legally on college sports in Maryland?
Use licensed apps that follow state rules and offer approved markets.
