• So it’s OK for Ohio State and other universities to profit off players by selling game-worn jerseys and equipment, but the players themselves can’t profit by selling awards or rings that actually belong to them? Seems like a double standard to me.
• What kind of message is the NCAA sending by allowing the players to remain eligible for the Sugar Bowl? The NCAA, Sugar Bowl, sponsors and television network want the best game possible, and that means the Suspended Six need to play. But isn’t the NCAA telling the players, ‘We’re going to use you for financial profit and ratings, then you can go away for five games next year.’ Or go away altogether?
• If the players had sent their awards and rings home and their parents sold them, would the players still be in trouble? I’m guessing not, considering how Auburn’s Cam Newton avoided suspension.
• What about the free gifts the bowls are lavishing on the players? This year’s Ohio State players receive a Reactor Meltdown watch, Sleek Audio custom earphones, New Era Cap and a gift suite (a private event where players are given an order form and allowed to select a gift or gifts not to exceed the NCAA limit of $500 per person).
The NCAA has no problem with bowls providing benefits and expensive gifts, but again, the players can’t benefit financially from their work? How about just cutting the players checks to be put into accounts they can pull from next season or take with them if leaving?
Contact this reporter at (937) 225-2400, ext. 6991, or gbilling@DaytonDaily News.com.
About the Author