Redskins, NBC to offer free-to-play 'betting' options during preseason games

It's not quite legalized sports betting, but the NFL is flirting with the live betting crowd by offering fans a chance to "Predict the Game" for cash prizes - starting with Thursday's Week 1 preseason game between the Washington Redskins and Cleveland Browns.

The Redskins on Tuesday announced a partnership with NBC Sports Washington for four pilot "Predict the Game" telecasts. During Washington's four preseason contests, fans will be able to win up to $1,000 cash, as well as second-chance prizes, each quarter for guessing various game and player-performance outcomes.

The telecast brings "the first predictive, free-to-play live game telecast to the NFL," said Redskins senior vice president Scott Shepherd.

Viewers will be able to see questions on their televisions and mobile and desktop devices, with participation and correct predictions earning them points toward prizes. The preseason telecasts will feature real-time stats, information, and other interactive graphics in addition to traditional broadcast elements.

This isn't the NBC affiliate's first foray into the predictive-gaming field. NBCSW also offered eight "Predict the Game" contests for Washington Wizards games this past NBA season, with contestants predicting scores and player outcomes for monetary rewards.

Sports betting has been legalized in Washington, D.C., but bets have yet to be taken in the nation's capital.