ESPN Introduces Full-Time Betting Analyst for UFL Broadcasts

BRISTOL, Conn. — ESPN is set to enhance its coverage of the United Football League (UFL) by introducing Erin Dolan as a full-time in-game betting analyst starting Sunday, March 30, 2025. Dolan will provide live betting insights and analysis across pre-game, in-game, and halftime segments for both ESPN and ABC broadcasts.

The UFL, a spring football league, begins its new season this weekend. Dolan, who is known for her appearances on the ESPN BET Live studio show, will share betting picks, report on wagering trends, and analyze popular betting props like touchdowns and quarterback performance. She will also deliver live updates during critical betting moments, even in one-sided games.

Unlike previous commentary provided by ESPN’s Stormy Buonantony during select games, Dolan’s role is expected to be more in-depth. Dolan described her function as a “rules analyst for betting,” highlighting the innovative nature of her responsibilities. “Because this hasn’t really been done before throughout an entire broadcast, there’s probably going to be a little bit of growing pains the first couple of weeks, but then we’ll get it down,” she told Front Office Sports.

Dolan is aware that many viewers may not have extensive knowledge of betting. “I think that you have to remember that you might be on an ABC broadcast, where maybe people aren’t as versed in betting or don’t know about it as much,” Dolan explained. “So, breaking it down more from a learning perspective would be more of the goal for me.”

The integration of betting insight during UFL broadcasts also aligns with ESPN’s strategic objective to promote its sportsbook, ESPN Bet, which aims to increase market share amid a competitive landscape. Dolan hopes to attract new bettors to the platform, noting, “The challenge of attracting new bettors is enticing.”

As the UFL begins its second season, labor tensions persist due to ongoing negotiations regarding player pay and health benefits. Despite these disputes, the league’s president remains committed to “playing ball,” and the kickoff game is scheduled for Friday night.

The ESPN UFL coverage will span half of the league’s 40-game regular-season schedule, running through June 1, 2025. Fox and FS1 will broadcast the remaining games, marking a significant step into the realm of live betting commentary in sports broadcasting.