I began to lose interest in college teams and players two years ago and that loss of interest is accelerating. If the whole college sports thing is all about money, I can find better uses with deeper civic purpose for my funds.
Title: An Old-Timer's Plea: "Get Off My Lawn!" - The NCAA Under Scrutiny
Subtitle: A Senior Citizen's Critique of the Modern NCAA and the Power of Character
Date: May 10, 2023
In a rapidly changing world, there are those who yearn for the days gone by, when things seemed simpler and values held stronger. Meet Thomas Johnson, a senior citizen with an unyielding belief in the phrase "Get off my lawn!" and a staunch opposition to the state of today's NCAA. With a mix of nostalgia, character references, and a strong faith in the Second Amendment, Johnson passionately voices his criticisms of the collegiate sports behemoth.
Sitting on his porch, Thomas Johnson, a retired football enthusiast, reminisces about the football players and coaches of the 1950s who he believes embodied unwavering character and integrity. In his eyes, they would have fared better than anyone in today's NCAA. He mentions icons like Joe "The Gentleman" Taylor, a humble but fierce football player known for his sportsmanship both on and off the field, and Coach Robert "The Mentor" Anderson, who mentored young athletes to not only excel in the game but also in life.
"These men represented the epitome of character and integrity," Johnson declares, his voice filled with admiration. "They played the game for the love of it, and winning was a byproduct of their dedication and hard work."
Johnson's criticisms of the NCAA stem from his belief that the organization has lost sight of these values, instead prioritizing profit and self-interest. He points to the rampant commercialization of college sports, where athletes are often seen as commodities rather than individuals pursuing a higher education. "Back in the day, playing college sports was about more than just money and fame. It was about personal growth, camaraderie, and representing your school with pride," he remarks, shaking his head in disappointment.
As a member of the National Rifle Association (NRA), Johnson holds strong beliefs in the Second Amendment, viewing it as a fundamental right. He draws a parallel between the erosion of values in the NCAA and what he perceives as a diminishing respect for individual liberties. However, he remains steadfast in his desire for constructive change rather than resorting to confrontational means.
Emphasizing his faith, Johnson adds a touch of spirituality to his critique, citing Jesus' teachings of compassion, humility, and fairness. "If we could incorporate those principles into the NCAA, we might see a return to the values that made college sports so special," he suggests, his eyes reflecting a glimmer of hope.
While some may dismiss Johnson's "get off my lawn" mentality as resistant to change, his perspective sheds light on the erosion of core values within the NCAA. The emphasis on character, integrity, and a genuine love for the game seems to have taken a backseat to commercial interests and self-promotion. As the NCAA continues to evolve, it is vital to acknowledge the need for reflection and recalibration, as the echoes of the past whisper lessons that may hold the key to a more meaningful future.
Love me some Dennis Erickson but I’m gonna call BS. “About f-ing money”??
No sh##, dude. Just like your agent for years and years negotiated to get you the best deals possible to coach a bunch of kids who the majority came from such poverty they ate better in the school cafeteria than they had their whole lives. Let’s get real about this: a lot of this is race. I’m black I’ve seen it my whole life. Nothing frazzles some people more than seeing young black men making more money than them. Nobody says anything about high school players taking money skipping college and going to the minor leagues when they are white kids playing baseball. Like, EVER. Never an issue. Pay a 18 year old black kid money to skip college and go to the NBA it’s a societal ill. Now NIL is the same issue. All these fans who live in a society where they embrace and applaud free market and capitalism have a different set of rules when they are getting boat raced at the bank by young black athletes. I HATE to even use race because I know that triggers a certain crowd and of course not nearly everything is about race but THIS is absolutely about the optics of young black men squeezing white America for every dollar they can get for their value and the bullsh#t pushback.
Completely agree. And I too love Erickson, but when I was a student at WSU, Erickson bolted for the University of Miami. Not because college football at WSU wasn't fun, but because he could make more money. So yeah, college athletics is all about money and I applaud any student athlete who can cash in on their athletic skills. The universities are making plenty of money off their backs and I find it ironic that many of them are whining about it. Despite that I love Kyle Smith's attitude. It's the wild west.
Let's look at the facts. There are 254 FCS and FBS football teams with an average let's say of 100 players per team, for a total of around 25,400 players. There are about 300 openings in the NFL each year. The odds of making an NFL football team are minuscule. The NIL is not a positive development for these college athletes because I believe it will prevent many players from getting a college degree and pursuing a lifelong career that could support themselves and their families. On the surface you would think that the players getting compensated is a good thing but most are not ready to handle the responsibility that coming into money requires. So I contend the NIL further exploits the players. They are selling their futures for pennies on the dollar. Coaches who truly care about the well-being of their players and their futures would be wise to focus on the benefits of a four year degree and advise players to not chase NIL $$ unless it helps them further their lives when football ends.
You cannot restrict NIL deals without losing the following litigation but perhaps, there could be a rule that would keep at least a portion of the money in trust until a player graduates, goes pro, or otherwise uses up his or her eligibility.
So you are all for the demise of college athletics??? you saying "The universities are making plenty of money off their backs" is a common theme of those who listen to those howling in the media but who haven't a clue. There are currently 361 Colleges and Universities competing at the D1 level...Do YOU know how many of them currently break even or make a profit??? depending on the year, between 28 and 37 of them. All the rest depend on some, to total taxpayer subsidies to put athletic teams on the fields & courts. Your "applause for students cashing in" is so misguided it's laughable. They are there (supposedly) for an education. And receiving a $200,000. valued scholarship to play the sport of their choice. Yet that is supposedly, or seemingly secondary. But it seems guys like you seem to totally discount that paltry sum...as if you are comparing any benefits to athletes to ridiculous guaranteed NBA salaries.
I certainly agree that race plays a role here, but I am appalled about the capitalistic system corrupting almost everything in our country. For example, I hate it when I am watching sports on T V and, even when the action is going on, there is a side channel add. I am tempted to avoid watching TV sports altogether.
So you would be OK with a socialist system doing the same thing??? If not why bring up capitalism? is it that you're being political and can't help yourself? I hate all the ads too...but someone has to pay for the sports viewing...unless you're ok with even that falling on the backs of the taxpayer. If that's the case you have more issues than with just capitalism.
Well, since you seem to like using direct language (which I generally admire), language like "bullsh#t", I'll do the same.
Your claim that this is mostly about race is bullsh#t!
Not one time in my entire life have I ever begrudged a black, brown, or any other color of person simply for making more money than me...as long as it was earned legally. Not once. Never. In fact, the thought that this is about "race" never occurred to me until you brought it up today. And, to tell you the truth, it makes me sick to my stomach. Nowhere in our society - with the possible exception of the military - is there a greater equalizer or blindness towards race than sports. That includes college or pro - if you can ball, you play. It's that honest and objective. This is not the '50's and '60's anymore - it's the 21st century and athletics has led the way in equal opportunity for everyone, regardless of race, religion or background. This claim of "race" is a tired, dying one-trick pony and the faster we bury it once and for all the better off society is going to be.
Well I guess Rich that however you personally feel about any issue is automatically the shared consensus of everyone. My bad pardon me didn’t realize you had a finger on the pulse of…..the entire country.
Sarcasm noted, sc...but try reading my post again - a little more carefully this time. Nowhere did I mention I was speaking for the country or - in fact - for anyone else. I said bringing up "race" as a driver in this issue, and the associated jealousy and counterproductive societal animosities that goes with it - makes me sick to my stomach. I didn't claim to have my finger on the pulse of the country - I spoke about my reaction. I'm tired of every offense - real or imaginary - chalked up as a "race" issue.
And, it's still my reaction. My own reaction...me...no one else. Clear?
Psychoanalysis huh. Your reply cements what I said even further. But hey, we’re all entitled to our opinions and in the end it doesn’t change a thing. Be good boy.
"I HATE to even use race because I know that triggers a certain crowd" ,(BULLCRAP)
Actually that is why you use it Hollywood dude. You appear to live in the Lala land of Al Sharpton's. 'De out's to gets us" derangement syndrome ,white supremist everywhere (also a lot of those QB's are white and cashing as well. The same folk who supported BLM, which ended with increasing black on black homicide by 40%
There was a time when college football was primarily an amateur event but even in the very beginning of it by the 1940s and 50s there was a lot of non amateur things going on. One is reminded of the famous quote by Hugh McElhaney that' the biggest adjustment from going to the NFL was a cut in pay from what he was making at the University of Washington.
No one could say with a straight face that what's going on now is corrupting the Collegiate atmosphere because the Collegiate atmosphere is incredibly corrupt to begin with. I say that after having worked 40 years in it. there are college administrators and Financial managers who pull off things that would make Meyer Lansky blush.
I really have pity for those who go around thinking the world is full of white supremacists who can't stand the idea of the black man getting ahead. sure there are a couple out there, In quantity, it's pretty much The left wing equivalent of the 1950 McCarthyites seeing Communists under their bed.
The real problem is that obviously this is going to develop into a have and have nots situation, with 40 or 50 schools only playing major college football . Which in effect will really be professional football for the players at least and the coaches .Of course with all that money you know the gamblers end criminals are going to get heavily involved as well. One of the reasons I lost interest in baseball years ago was the free agent system and the guys that I rooted for on my team we're all playing for the guys I hated the year before and vice versa.
Until you mentioned black athletes I never gave a thought to which student athletes were cashing in on NIL $. I simply think this whole new system (can we really call any of this systematic?) will destroy what little semblance of student-athletics still exists. I think the whole farce of $'s in college athletics began with high profile coaches making multi-millions to coach young men and women. What wouldn't the athletes emulate that cash motive? As for your assertion that young black men are the only ones reaping the rewards, here is how the student-athlete population breaks down. https://www.statista.com/statistics/1168373/male-student-athletes-ethnicity/#:~:text=In%202022%2C%20an%20estimated%2060.5,17.9%20percent%20were%20African%20American.
There's also the "photogenic" social media element to the NIL movement. Two quick examples = the cross-country transfer by Cavinder twins (Fresno State to Miami and now ???) and the sudden interest in LSU women's gymnastics as a result of Olivia Dunne.
That is not a take I was expecting. It is one that should be discussed more. I would not myself put it on race but poor versus not poor. Those that come from little are obviously gonna chase the $$ usually because of the short-term advantages they provide. Of course, most of the poor we are talking about are not white, but not all. That is my take as I am a old white male. I would like to know if you think I have it wrong and it is about race only.
John. The NCAA has created their own Noose that will kill their Golden Goose someday soon by eventually alienating University Alumni and Traditional Donors for their favorite Alma Mater ; it is a “House of Cards”
Fraught with poison that will kill college athletics like we have known and loved in the past ....with all the money being thrown at players now , where is their Allegiance to a particular University when the next season they can be “Bought” for more money .... the NCAA has Lost it and their Golden Goose will soon be cooked , and we Alumni will just send our money elsewhere and quit contributing to our Alma Mater . Why bother , anymore !!??
Years ago, and I mean the late 70s and early 80s, at the same time the Olympics allowed competitors to get paid for training, there was talk about a salary for college players. I liked it. A lot of the kids going to college on sports scholarships are from very poor families. If they don't have strong scholastic skills they aren't going to get a high paying job after college. The college years might be their best shot to make a little money. And the schools certainly make a lot selling their athletic product, at least the revenue sports. So I have always been for student-athlete compensation. But back then, young naive me, thought it would be a salary from a pool that would be evenly shared among athletes and across conferences. I did not think it would ever be a free-for-all like the NIL has become. Pro sports learned years ago, after the advent of free agency with the Andy Messersmith decision in 1975, that caps had to be put in place and structure created for draftees so that the economic structure of the sport did not get blown up. The Yankees could always afford the most expensive roster with the size of their market. So how to level the playing field so there is fairness and actual competition? That is the problem the MLB struggled with for years. Same in the NBA, NFL and NASCAR. Limits had to be placed on car modifications so that the driver's skill was the test, not how much money was spent researching and modifying the car. College sports are now at the same fork in the road. Does the NCAA get serious about an economic structure to preserve competition while being fair to young athletes? Or does it just let college sports devolve into a food-fight which benefits no one and wrecks the drama of sport?
…..and it shouldn’t be. Why should a school like USC that has built a blue blood brand over decades of on field results and positioned themselves thru academic excellence to attract game changing alums who can participate in NIL be penalized with a cap so that the WSUs of the world can keep up?
Because maybe USC wants some competition. Or, maybe you like going to games and watching USC practice because the competition sees no point in showing up. That almost did in the Yankees. Even George Steinbrenner, possibly less arrogant than you, figured that one out.
For the same reasons the Yankees shouldn’t be allowed to win by buying the best players with no restrictions and TV money should be shared in the NFL. It’s not that simple, but creating the possibility of competition is essential. SC can’t achieve at a level consistent with its massive geographic advantage and “tradition.” The sport of college football is better off if SC’s struggle to do so does not become a simple question of how much more it can pay players than WSU.
I think the cap is important to level the playing field. The person with the deepest pockets shouldn’t have that kind of advantage in college sports, IMO. “keep up” isn’t really relevant, as in any game, the team that scores the most points wins. Of course, if you’re playing Monopoly, I have a completely different opinion 😜
I think the first step is wrapping your head around what is happening. Part of the issue is that nobody knows what the players are receiving from the collectives. I think it probably needs to be transparent.
Who ever said college sports are a free market? FBS sports are a monopoly. A school must be invited to join FBS or the NCAA for that matter. So that is a pretty lame argument. Pro sports faced this same argument and the Supreme Court ruled that pro sports are a legal monopoly and can work together to set rules around compensation. It first ruled that pro sports are not subject to anti-trust law in 1922 in the original Anti-Trust case giving MLB an exemption. The NFL and NBA have subsequently received exemptions. The rulings were tested repeatedly over the years and successfully resulted in free agency as a counter-weight to the power of the Anti-Trust exemptions. But to maintain balance, the Supreme Court has also allowed restrictions on free agency and salary caps. Salary caps and restrictions were further tested in court by the NFLPA union which resulted in the Collective Bargaining Agreement to which courts have never offered any opposition. Why would it be different for the NCAA, likewise a legal monopoly?
The 1922 case, which most say was wrongly decided, applies to baseball only. It stands because Congress has not acted and the courts have decided that congressional acquiescence means the court got it “right” when construing the Sherman Act. But it has not been extended to other sports. With the exception of the NFL TV arrangements and a few scattered other issues, other pro sports are subject to the Sherman Act. Congress has created only niche exemptions. Salary caps and the like are lawful because of the “labor exemption,” which applies to all industries, and has a “statutory” and “non-statutory” aspect. Collectively bargained restraints on competition are immune from antitrust scrutiny under the labor exemption. There is no concept of “legal monopoly” that is relevant. In the 1922 case, the Supreme Court dubiously said baseball is not “commerce,” and thus not covered by the Sherman Act. Employer collusion on compensation is illegal, regardless of the market share or market power of the colluding parties. So, for example, it doesn’t matter whether the NFL, or the NCAA has a monopoly in any properly defined market. Collusion on compensation is illegal unless protected by the labor exemption, at least under the analysis of the Kavanaugh opinion. That’s why (a) NCAA limits on NIL are not possible, and (b) college sports are in jeopardy if Congress does not create a new exemption or college athletes do not unionize.
I disagree that the 1922 MLB SC ruling was wrongly decided and that it is not relevant to the modern NCAA. It established a precedent for a sport like the MLB as a legal monopoly which is required to maintain integrity as a sport. All other professional sports have relied on the MLB precedent whether or not they had a similar hearing at the SC. They all exhibit monopoly power over their league and players, through a CBA. It would never work for new teams to be created and jump into a league without invitation as it would constantly disrupt the entertainment aspect that makes team sports viable as a business. Team sports are a lot more like a public utility than a commodity. The 1922 SC was dealing with that reality when it had to make a ruling on a new business concept, the regional professional sports team. It was not a flawed decision, but established a precedent for all future professional sports. So it is likely that the NCAA must respect the evolution of professional sports law since 1922 and must allow the players in each sport to form a union so they can bargain collectively. I am fine with that, too. It makes a heck of a lot more sense than the NIL free-for-all
That is your opinion, no better or more accurate than mine. If you want to show me how I am incorrect, then offer evidence rather than offering an opinion
Sadly, all the goals, the rules and expectations for a student athlete have been dismantled by the very organizations that were supposed to protect players.
Just a sick sense and use of money
adding to the wear and tear on their bodies.
In the seventies, the NCAA would banish a player for dropping classes, or making money on the sale of tickets, accepting money from alums, not obtaining a “proper” job... ALL BS. All hypocritical pigs.. Erickson of course nails it...
I've been waiting for an article like this. The way Smith and Dennis Erickson described it, is EXACTLY why I gravitated away from Pro sports, (free agency & guaranteed contracts) and towards college athletics. There has been a steady creep towards this, with paying pro's to participate in the Olympics',
to looking the other way when AAU basketball has been paying (so called "amatuer") players travel, food, and all expenses. NOW, College athletics is becoming the NBA, NFL, MLB. The myopia of NCAA administrators, and university and conference administrators is killing the goose that laid the golden eggs. These fools with their inaction and lack of foresight are going to put themselves out of a job sooner than later by killing the sport that pays them. There will come a time when States, elected representatives, taxpayers, citizenry are all collectively going to say "Oh Hell NO!" And the Nation's entire Collegiate athletic system will be done...because fans are already getting extremely tired of the elitist entitlement attitudes of 'COLLEGE ATHLETES'! And because very few colleges and universities have Phil Knights, or T. Boone Pickens (OK state). or John Ruiz (U-MIami) to bankroll their athletic departments. So when the public walks away....they (paid college athletes), will be done...then what (Ed Obannon)? Oh NO! They might be forced to have to go to school and actually study to get a J.O.B. ...THE HORRORS!!!
It looks like the world of NIL resembles the days of the wild wild West. Little regulation and unlimited funding. Every year is free-agency with little continuity from year to year for coaches and players. I wonder if the NIL phenomenon has been a reason for the sharp drop in attendance at Duck MBB due to the number of changing rosters each of the past few years. For the premier players, the NIL program is a bonanza, but what is the glue that makes a team stay together when you don't know who your team mates will be each year? I share the concern of coaches dealing with this disruptive program. John, what regulations would you like to see implemented to improve the NIL program?
Coaches want to get paid. I take no issue with that. Players should be able to take advantage of NIL (since they aren't getting a cut of the TV money). I take no issue with that either.
My view on the NIL development is it is exploitative. Players are selling their futures for pennies on the dollar. And any money they receive they are ill equipped to manage and when football ends they won't have the base Skills for a lucrative career or the little bit of money they made off the NIL.
I agree we can't make generalizations but most of these athletes who receive NIL $$ are learning to manage money for the first time. Because of success, many of these athletes could be overconfident when it comes to finances and there is a link to risky financial behavior. Unless they have a strong support network I see alot of the NIL money going into things that will not help these athletes achieve their retirement goals.....which I doubt most are not even thinking of.
Watched the NFL draft; watched student-athletes one by one march up in bespoke suites, a couple hundred thou in bling and big gold watches, and so I assume the Cadillac UV was parked at the airport. All I could think of was "manage that money dude, you're going to need it".
My blessing in all of this is that, this Saturday morning, I will be heading for Valley Catholic to watch my third grade great granddaughter compete for St Anthony's in the CYO Roadrunners track and field championships. So besides enjoying her and the family in some pure sport, I will be distracted from the cluster that college athletics has hereby arrived. And who knows who I might bump into there? Go Olivia! GrandpaRosie
As a long time Cougar fan and alum, I see College sports becoming a landing place for athletes who will not end up on professional sports. I recall an article in Sports Illustrated back in the mid 70's where the writer argued that all the best players should go directly to the pros, like in baseball, right from High School. They would be paid to play at the various levels according to their market value, and the remaining athletes could then compete for spots on college teams. The various sports in the college ranks would be like "club sports', and competition would be based upon the level of play for Varsity teams, like high school.
NIL has created a bigger rift between the haves and the have nots.
I was not surprised when DJ Rodman moved on to USC. It bothers me as a CAF donor to see our donations go to help matriculating athletes who have little or no allegiance to the university.
I am starting to lose interest as well.
Beginning to wonder if my funds would be used better elsewhere.
And you want to know why attendance is dropping at most college athletic events (I know there are exceptions to that statement). We as fans and supporters of these teams, schools and programs are losing interest as roster changes occur about as often as baby diaper changes. It's becoming a constant revolving door. It's one of the reasons I have lost a lot of my interest in pro sports, and why I'm starting to lose interest in major college sports. The athletes have no connection or loyalty to the schools, and I have no connection or loyalty to the student-athletes. Big Money ruins everything!
You are witnessing the death of college sports. No salary cap? Hows that work for MLB? Agree with Erickson- the Div II schools are going to be more fun to watch. Might have more interest in those games.
The transition of P5 football and basketball to semi-pro leagues is, IMO, inexorable.
One day the NLRB, a federal court, or a state legislature(s) will find that student-athletes, at least those playing positive cash-flow sports, are employees and that's all she wrote for many schools today that offer athletic scholarships.
Check the current MLB standings. And the list of most recent World Series winners. Seems to work OK. The list of champions does not read Bama, Clemson, Georgia, rinse/repeat.
I began to lose interest in college teams and players two years ago and that loss of interest is accelerating. If the whole college sports thing is all about money, I can find better uses with deeper civic purpose for my funds.
Keep writing.
Cheers
T carter
I don't think you're alone.
Title: An Old-Timer's Plea: "Get Off My Lawn!" - The NCAA Under Scrutiny
Subtitle: A Senior Citizen's Critique of the Modern NCAA and the Power of Character
Date: May 10, 2023
In a rapidly changing world, there are those who yearn for the days gone by, when things seemed simpler and values held stronger. Meet Thomas Johnson, a senior citizen with an unyielding belief in the phrase "Get off my lawn!" and a staunch opposition to the state of today's NCAA. With a mix of nostalgia, character references, and a strong faith in the Second Amendment, Johnson passionately voices his criticisms of the collegiate sports behemoth.
Sitting on his porch, Thomas Johnson, a retired football enthusiast, reminisces about the football players and coaches of the 1950s who he believes embodied unwavering character and integrity. In his eyes, they would have fared better than anyone in today's NCAA. He mentions icons like Joe "The Gentleman" Taylor, a humble but fierce football player known for his sportsmanship both on and off the field, and Coach Robert "The Mentor" Anderson, who mentored young athletes to not only excel in the game but also in life.
"These men represented the epitome of character and integrity," Johnson declares, his voice filled with admiration. "They played the game for the love of it, and winning was a byproduct of their dedication and hard work."
Johnson's criticisms of the NCAA stem from his belief that the organization has lost sight of these values, instead prioritizing profit and self-interest. He points to the rampant commercialization of college sports, where athletes are often seen as commodities rather than individuals pursuing a higher education. "Back in the day, playing college sports was about more than just money and fame. It was about personal growth, camaraderie, and representing your school with pride," he remarks, shaking his head in disappointment.
As a member of the National Rifle Association (NRA), Johnson holds strong beliefs in the Second Amendment, viewing it as a fundamental right. He draws a parallel between the erosion of values in the NCAA and what he perceives as a diminishing respect for individual liberties. However, he remains steadfast in his desire for constructive change rather than resorting to confrontational means.
Emphasizing his faith, Johnson adds a touch of spirituality to his critique, citing Jesus' teachings of compassion, humility, and fairness. "If we could incorporate those principles into the NCAA, we might see a return to the values that made college sports so special," he suggests, his eyes reflecting a glimmer of hope.
While some may dismiss Johnson's "get off my lawn" mentality as resistant to change, his perspective sheds light on the erosion of core values within the NCAA. The emphasis on character, integrity, and a genuine love for the game seems to have taken a backseat to commercial interests and self-promotion. As the NCAA continues to evolve, it is vital to acknowledge the need for reflection and recalibration, as the echoes of the past whisper lessons that may hold the key to a more meaningful future.
Love me some Dennis Erickson but I’m gonna call BS. “About f-ing money”??
No sh##, dude. Just like your agent for years and years negotiated to get you the best deals possible to coach a bunch of kids who the majority came from such poverty they ate better in the school cafeteria than they had their whole lives. Let’s get real about this: a lot of this is race. I’m black I’ve seen it my whole life. Nothing frazzles some people more than seeing young black men making more money than them. Nobody says anything about high school players taking money skipping college and going to the minor leagues when they are white kids playing baseball. Like, EVER. Never an issue. Pay a 18 year old black kid money to skip college and go to the NBA it’s a societal ill. Now NIL is the same issue. All these fans who live in a society where they embrace and applaud free market and capitalism have a different set of rules when they are getting boat raced at the bank by young black athletes. I HATE to even use race because I know that triggers a certain crowd and of course not nearly everything is about race but THIS is absolutely about the optics of young black men squeezing white America for every dollar they can get for their value and the bullsh#t pushback.
Completely agree. And I too love Erickson, but when I was a student at WSU, Erickson bolted for the University of Miami. Not because college football at WSU wasn't fun, but because he could make more money. So yeah, college athletics is all about money and I applaud any student athlete who can cash in on their athletic skills. The universities are making plenty of money off their backs and I find it ironic that many of them are whining about it. Despite that I love Kyle Smith's attitude. It's the wild west.
Let's look at the facts. There are 254 FCS and FBS football teams with an average let's say of 100 players per team, for a total of around 25,400 players. There are about 300 openings in the NFL each year. The odds of making an NFL football team are minuscule. The NIL is not a positive development for these college athletes because I believe it will prevent many players from getting a college degree and pursuing a lifelong career that could support themselves and their families. On the surface you would think that the players getting compensated is a good thing but most are not ready to handle the responsibility that coming into money requires. So I contend the NIL further exploits the players. They are selling their futures for pennies on the dollar. Coaches who truly care about the well-being of their players and their futures would be wise to focus on the benefits of a four year degree and advise players to not chase NIL $$ unless it helps them further their lives when football ends.
Numbers don't lie here...
outstanding take on this...well said.
You are living in a fantasy world.
The education opportunities are still there.
You cannot restrict NIL deals without losing the following litigation but perhaps, there could be a rule that would keep at least a portion of the money in trust until a player graduates, goes pro, or otherwise uses up his or her eligibility.
So you are all for the demise of college athletics??? you saying "The universities are making plenty of money off their backs" is a common theme of those who listen to those howling in the media but who haven't a clue. There are currently 361 Colleges and Universities competing at the D1 level...Do YOU know how many of them currently break even or make a profit??? depending on the year, between 28 and 37 of them. All the rest depend on some, to total taxpayer subsidies to put athletic teams on the fields & courts. Your "applause for students cashing in" is so misguided it's laughable. They are there (supposedly) for an education. And receiving a $200,000. valued scholarship to play the sport of their choice. Yet that is supposedly, or seemingly secondary. But it seems guys like you seem to totally discount that paltry sum...as if you are comparing any benefits to athletes to ridiculous guaranteed NBA salaries.
I certainly agree that race plays a role here, but I am appalled about the capitalistic system corrupting almost everything in our country. For example, I hate it when I am watching sports on T V and, even when the action is going on, there is a side channel add. I am tempted to avoid watching TV sports altogether.
So you would be OK with a socialist system doing the same thing??? If not why bring up capitalism? is it that you're being political and can't help yourself? I hate all the ads too...but someone has to pay for the sports viewing...unless you're ok with even that falling on the backs of the taxpayer. If that's the case you have more issues than with just capitalism.
Well, since you seem to like using direct language (which I generally admire), language like "bullsh#t", I'll do the same.
Your claim that this is mostly about race is bullsh#t!
Not one time in my entire life have I ever begrudged a black, brown, or any other color of person simply for making more money than me...as long as it was earned legally. Not once. Never. In fact, the thought that this is about "race" never occurred to me until you brought it up today. And, to tell you the truth, it makes me sick to my stomach. Nowhere in our society - with the possible exception of the military - is there a greater equalizer or blindness towards race than sports. That includes college or pro - if you can ball, you play. It's that honest and objective. This is not the '50's and '60's anymore - it's the 21st century and athletics has led the way in equal opportunity for everyone, regardless of race, religion or background. This claim of "race" is a tired, dying one-trick pony and the faster we bury it once and for all the better off society is going to be.
Well I guess Rich that however you personally feel about any issue is automatically the shared consensus of everyone. My bad pardon me didn’t realize you had a finger on the pulse of…..the entire country.
Sarcasm noted, sc...but try reading my post again - a little more carefully this time. Nowhere did I mention I was speaking for the country or - in fact - for anyone else. I said bringing up "race" as a driver in this issue, and the associated jealousy and counterproductive societal animosities that goes with it - makes me sick to my stomach. I didn't claim to have my finger on the pulse of the country - I spoke about my reaction. I'm tired of every offense - real or imaginary - chalked up as a "race" issue.
And, it's still my reaction. My own reaction...me...no one else. Clear?
Of course you feel this way. Maybe you have some biases that you may not be willing to admit.
Nice try...try your psychoanalysis with someone else you don't know, have never met and will never see.
So immature it's laughable.
Psychoanalysis huh. Your reply cements what I said even further. But hey, we’re all entitled to our opinions and in the end it doesn’t change a thing. Be good boy.
100%
"I HATE to even use race because I know that triggers a certain crowd" ,(BULLCRAP)
Actually that is why you use it Hollywood dude. You appear to live in the Lala land of Al Sharpton's. 'De out's to gets us" derangement syndrome ,white supremist everywhere (also a lot of those QB's are white and cashing as well. The same folk who supported BLM, which ended with increasing black on black homicide by 40%
There was a time when college football was primarily an amateur event but even in the very beginning of it by the 1940s and 50s there was a lot of non amateur things going on. One is reminded of the famous quote by Hugh McElhaney that' the biggest adjustment from going to the NFL was a cut in pay from what he was making at the University of Washington.
No one could say with a straight face that what's going on now is corrupting the Collegiate atmosphere because the Collegiate atmosphere is incredibly corrupt to begin with. I say that after having worked 40 years in it. there are college administrators and Financial managers who pull off things that would make Meyer Lansky blush.
I really have pity for those who go around thinking the world is full of white supremacists who can't stand the idea of the black man getting ahead. sure there are a couple out there, In quantity, it's pretty much The left wing equivalent of the 1950 McCarthyites seeing Communists under their bed.
The real problem is that obviously this is going to develop into a have and have nots situation, with 40 or 50 schools only playing major college football . Which in effect will really be professional football for the players at least and the coaches .Of course with all that money you know the gamblers end criminals are going to get heavily involved as well. One of the reasons I lost interest in baseball years ago was the free agent system and the guys that I rooted for on my team we're all playing for the guys I hated the year before and vice versa.
Until you mentioned black athletes I never gave a thought to which student athletes were cashing in on NIL $. I simply think this whole new system (can we really call any of this systematic?) will destroy what little semblance of student-athletics still exists. I think the whole farce of $'s in college athletics began with high profile coaches making multi-millions to coach young men and women. What wouldn't the athletes emulate that cash motive? As for your assertion that young black men are the only ones reaping the rewards, here is how the student-athlete population breaks down. https://www.statista.com/statistics/1168373/male-student-athletes-ethnicity/#:~:text=In%202022%2C%20an%20estimated%2060.5,17.9%20percent%20were%20African%20American.
Facts don't lie - hopefully some people will pay attention.
There's also the "photogenic" social media element to the NIL movement. Two quick examples = the cross-country transfer by Cavinder twins (Fresno State to Miami and now ???) and the sudden interest in LSU women's gymnastics as a result of Olivia Dunne.
Great observation. I call it the Kardashian effect.
Facts!
That is not a take I was expecting. It is one that should be discussed more. I would not myself put it on race but poor versus not poor. Those that come from little are obviously gonna chase the $$ usually because of the short-term advantages they provide. Of course, most of the poor we are talking about are not white, but not all. That is my take as I am a old white male. I would like to know if you think I have it wrong and it is about race only.
John. The NCAA has created their own Noose that will kill their Golden Goose someday soon by eventually alienating University Alumni and Traditional Donors for their favorite Alma Mater ; it is a “House of Cards”
Fraught with poison that will kill college athletics like we have known and loved in the past ....with all the money being thrown at players now , where is their Allegiance to a particular University when the next season they can be “Bought” for more money .... the NCAA has Lost it and their Golden Goose will soon be cooked , and we Alumni will just send our money elsewhere and quit contributing to our Alma Mater . Why bother , anymore !!??
NCAA was so far behind the times.
Where has been coaches and administrator’s allegiance? Nobody is asking about the allegiance from the regular student body.
Another insightful, thought-provoking and well-written column. Thank you.
Thanks EJ. Means a lot. Appreciate you being here.
Years ago, and I mean the late 70s and early 80s, at the same time the Olympics allowed competitors to get paid for training, there was talk about a salary for college players. I liked it. A lot of the kids going to college on sports scholarships are from very poor families. If they don't have strong scholastic skills they aren't going to get a high paying job after college. The college years might be their best shot to make a little money. And the schools certainly make a lot selling their athletic product, at least the revenue sports. So I have always been for student-athlete compensation. But back then, young naive me, thought it would be a salary from a pool that would be evenly shared among athletes and across conferences. I did not think it would ever be a free-for-all like the NIL has become. Pro sports learned years ago, after the advent of free agency with the Andy Messersmith decision in 1975, that caps had to be put in place and structure created for draftees so that the economic structure of the sport did not get blown up. The Yankees could always afford the most expensive roster with the size of their market. So how to level the playing field so there is fairness and actual competition? That is the problem the MLB struggled with for years. Same in the NBA, NFL and NASCAR. Limits had to be placed on car modifications so that the driver's skill was the test, not how much money was spent researching and modifying the car. College sports are now at the same fork in the road. Does the NCAA get serious about an economic structure to preserve competition while being fair to young athletes? Or does it just let college sports devolve into a food-fight which benefits no one and wrecks the drama of sport?
Lots of college admins telling me they worry an NIL cap isn't feasible or enforceable because it flies in the face of free market.
…..and it shouldn’t be. Why should a school like USC that has built a blue blood brand over decades of on field results and positioned themselves thru academic excellence to attract game changing alums who can participate in NIL be penalized with a cap so that the WSUs of the world can keep up?
Because maybe USC wants some competition. Or, maybe you like going to games and watching USC practice because the competition sees no point in showing up. That almost did in the Yankees. Even George Steinbrenner, possibly less arrogant than you, figured that one out.
For the same reasons the Yankees shouldn’t be allowed to win by buying the best players with no restrictions and TV money should be shared in the NFL. It’s not that simple, but creating the possibility of competition is essential. SC can’t achieve at a level consistent with its massive geographic advantage and “tradition.” The sport of college football is better off if SC’s struggle to do so does not become a simple question of how much more it can pay players than WSU.
I think the cap is important to level the playing field. The person with the deepest pockets shouldn’t have that kind of advantage in college sports, IMO. “keep up” isn’t really relevant, as in any game, the team that scores the most points wins. Of course, if you’re playing Monopoly, I have a completely different opinion 😜
Spot on. Trying to control this absent negotiation with a CFB Players Union would be a violation of anti-trust law for certain.
And with the Supremes shutting out the NCAA 9 to Zip, I do not see any attempt to rein in NIL deals happening.
Even with a salary cap agreement with the players, like the NFL, NIL opportunities would not be limited.
I think the first step is wrapping your head around what is happening. Part of the issue is that nobody knows what the players are receiving from the collectives. I think it probably needs to be transparent.
Definitely 💯
Transparency and dropping the charade would go a long way
Who ever said college sports are a free market? FBS sports are a monopoly. A school must be invited to join FBS or the NCAA for that matter. So that is a pretty lame argument. Pro sports faced this same argument and the Supreme Court ruled that pro sports are a legal monopoly and can work together to set rules around compensation. It first ruled that pro sports are not subject to anti-trust law in 1922 in the original Anti-Trust case giving MLB an exemption. The NFL and NBA have subsequently received exemptions. The rulings were tested repeatedly over the years and successfully resulted in free agency as a counter-weight to the power of the Anti-Trust exemptions. But to maintain balance, the Supreme Court has also allowed restrictions on free agency and salary caps. Salary caps and restrictions were further tested in court by the NFLPA union which resulted in the Collective Bargaining Agreement to which courts have never offered any opposition. Why would it be different for the NCAA, likewise a legal monopoly?
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Federal_Baseball_Club_v._National_League
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/NFL_collective_bargaining_agreement
The 1922 case, which most say was wrongly decided, applies to baseball only. It stands because Congress has not acted and the courts have decided that congressional acquiescence means the court got it “right” when construing the Sherman Act. But it has not been extended to other sports. With the exception of the NFL TV arrangements and a few scattered other issues, other pro sports are subject to the Sherman Act. Congress has created only niche exemptions. Salary caps and the like are lawful because of the “labor exemption,” which applies to all industries, and has a “statutory” and “non-statutory” aspect. Collectively bargained restraints on competition are immune from antitrust scrutiny under the labor exemption. There is no concept of “legal monopoly” that is relevant. In the 1922 case, the Supreme Court dubiously said baseball is not “commerce,” and thus not covered by the Sherman Act. Employer collusion on compensation is illegal, regardless of the market share or market power of the colluding parties. So, for example, it doesn’t matter whether the NFL, or the NCAA has a monopoly in any properly defined market. Collusion on compensation is illegal unless protected by the labor exemption, at least under the analysis of the Kavanaugh opinion. That’s why (a) NCAA limits on NIL are not possible, and (b) college sports are in jeopardy if Congress does not create a new exemption or college athletes do not unionize.
I disagree that the 1922 MLB SC ruling was wrongly decided and that it is not relevant to the modern NCAA. It established a precedent for a sport like the MLB as a legal monopoly which is required to maintain integrity as a sport. All other professional sports have relied on the MLB precedent whether or not they had a similar hearing at the SC. They all exhibit monopoly power over their league and players, through a CBA. It would never work for new teams to be created and jump into a league without invitation as it would constantly disrupt the entertainment aspect that makes team sports viable as a business. Team sports are a lot more like a public utility than a commodity. The 1922 SC was dealing with that reality when it had to make a ruling on a new business concept, the regional professional sports team. It was not a flawed decision, but established a precedent for all future professional sports. So it is likely that the NCAA must respect the evolution of professional sports law since 1922 and must allow the players in each sport to form a union so they can bargain collectively. I am fine with that, too. It makes a heck of a lot more sense than the NIL free-for-all
Incorrect in various ways.
That is your opinion, no better or more accurate than mine. If you want to show me how I am incorrect, then offer evidence rather than offering an opinion
Sadly, all the goals, the rules and expectations for a student athlete have been dismantled by the very organizations that were supposed to protect players.
Just a sick sense and use of money
adding to the wear and tear on their bodies.
In the seventies, the NCAA would banish a player for dropping classes, or making money on the sale of tickets, accepting money from alums, not obtaining a “proper” job... ALL BS. All hypocritical pigs.. Erickson of course nails it...
Disgusted in Phoenix... jdc
.
I've been waiting for an article like this. The way Smith and Dennis Erickson described it, is EXACTLY why I gravitated away from Pro sports, (free agency & guaranteed contracts) and towards college athletics. There has been a steady creep towards this, with paying pro's to participate in the Olympics',
to looking the other way when AAU basketball has been paying (so called "amatuer") players travel, food, and all expenses. NOW, College athletics is becoming the NBA, NFL, MLB. The myopia of NCAA administrators, and university and conference administrators is killing the goose that laid the golden eggs. These fools with their inaction and lack of foresight are going to put themselves out of a job sooner than later by killing the sport that pays them. There will come a time when States, elected representatives, taxpayers, citizenry are all collectively going to say "Oh Hell NO!" And the Nation's entire Collegiate athletic system will be done...because fans are already getting extremely tired of the elitist entitlement attitudes of 'COLLEGE ATHLETES'! And because very few colleges and universities have Phil Knights, or T. Boone Pickens (OK state). or John Ruiz (U-MIami) to bankroll their athletic departments. So when the public walks away....they (paid college athletes), will be done...then what (Ed Obannon)? Oh NO! They might be forced to have to go to school and actually study to get a J.O.B. ...THE HORRORS!!!
It looks like the world of NIL resembles the days of the wild wild West. Little regulation and unlimited funding. Every year is free-agency with little continuity from year to year for coaches and players. I wonder if the NIL phenomenon has been a reason for the sharp drop in attendance at Duck MBB due to the number of changing rosters each of the past few years. For the premier players, the NIL program is a bonanza, but what is the glue that makes a team stay together when you don't know who your team mates will be each year? I share the concern of coaches dealing with this disruptive program. John, what regulations would you like to see implemented to improve the NIL program?
I think the first thing is that the numbers should be public. Part of the problem is that we don't really know the full problem.
Coaches want to get paid. I take no issue with that. Players should be able to take advantage of NIL (since they aren't getting a cut of the TV money). I take no issue with that either.
My view on the NIL development is it is exploitative. Players are selling their futures for pennies on the dollar. And any money they receive they are ill equipped to manage and when football ends they won't have the base Skills for a lucrative career or the little bit of money they made off the NIL.
How do u know that?
I agree we can't make generalizations but most of these athletes who receive NIL $$ are learning to manage money for the first time. Because of success, many of these athletes could be overconfident when it comes to finances and there is a link to risky financial behavior. Unless they have a strong support network I see alot of the NIL money going into things that will not help these athletes achieve their retirement goals.....which I doubt most are not even thinking of.
Watched the NFL draft; watched student-athletes one by one march up in bespoke suites, a couple hundred thou in bling and big gold watches, and so I assume the Cadillac UV was parked at the airport. All I could think of was "manage that money dude, you're going to need it".
Nouveau riche.
My blessing in all of this is that, this Saturday morning, I will be heading for Valley Catholic to watch my third grade great granddaughter compete for St Anthony's in the CYO Roadrunners track and field championships. So besides enjoying her and the family in some pure sport, I will be distracted from the cluster that college athletics has hereby arrived. And who knows who I might bump into there? Go Olivia! GrandpaRosie
Well played, Charlie.
Go Valiants
Did you attend Aloha High School in the 70s
This is insanity. If the feckless NCAA doesn't reform NIL and transfer portal rules soon, fans will eventually become even more alienated.
Harry, the Supreme Court held against the NCAA 9 to ) in the Alston case with a piling-on concurring opinion from Justice Cavanaugh.
No way that NIL can be regulated. The transfer portal has been regulated by creating windows but if you try to close these windows?
As a long time Cougar fan and alum, I see College sports becoming a landing place for athletes who will not end up on professional sports. I recall an article in Sports Illustrated back in the mid 70's where the writer argued that all the best players should go directly to the pros, like in baseball, right from High School. They would be paid to play at the various levels according to their market value, and the remaining athletes could then compete for spots on college teams. The various sports in the college ranks would be like "club sports', and competition would be based upon the level of play for Varsity teams, like high school.
NIL has created a bigger rift between the haves and the have nots.
I was not surprised when DJ Rodman moved on to USC. It bothers me as a CAF donor to see our donations go to help matriculating athletes who have little or no allegiance to the university.
I am starting to lose interest as well.
Beginning to wonder if my funds would be used better elsewhere.
I need a vacation.
Dave Peterson
Well played, Dave. Charlie
And you want to know why attendance is dropping at most college athletic events (I know there are exceptions to that statement). We as fans and supporters of these teams, schools and programs are losing interest as roster changes occur about as often as baby diaper changes. It's becoming a constant revolving door. It's one of the reasons I have lost a lot of my interest in pro sports, and why I'm starting to lose interest in major college sports. The athletes have no connection or loyalty to the schools, and I have no connection or loyalty to the student-athletes. Big Money ruins everything!
Little Joe never once gave it away
Everybody had to pay and pay
A hustle here and a hustle there
Who knew that Lou Reed saw the NCAA future ...take a walk on the wild side
You are a GREAT journalist John
You are witnessing the death of college sports. No salary cap? Hows that work for MLB? Agree with Erickson- the Div II schools are going to be more fun to watch. Might have more interest in those games.
The transition of P5 football and basketball to semi-pro leagues is, IMO, inexorable.
One day the NLRB, a federal court, or a state legislature(s) will find that student-athletes, at least those playing positive cash-flow sports, are employees and that's all she wrote for many schools today that offer athletic scholarships.
Check the current MLB standings. And the list of most recent World Series winners. Seems to work OK. The list of champions does not read Bama, Clemson, Georgia, rinse/repeat.