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Green Bay fans are going to be miffed for weeks about the outcome of Monday’s game at Seattle.
But bettors might remember the boondoggle much longer.
There is no such thing as dual possession in a sports book. When that substitute official ruled that Golden Tate shared possession of the winning touchdown pass, a lot of money changed hands.
Estimates are that $15 million worth of wagers in Las Vegas alone changed hands when the official raised his hands to signal touchdown for Seattle on the game’s final play. Worldwide, estimates of the amount of cash that changed destination ranges from $150 million to $300 million.
That total shouldn’t surprise anyone. One reason the NFL is the big dog of the sports industry is the many forms of wagering its games.
We have no issue with that. But we don’t want to hear whining from anyone who lost a few bucks on the last play Monday night. If you believe that the humans playing, officiating and running the NFL owe anything to you, then you probably shouldn’t be gambling.
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Tell us how you really feel coach.
Florida State coach Jimbo Fisher said Monday that the Heisman Trophy is a popularity contest for “show dogs” with the winner now usually the best player on which team voters feel is the best.
Fisher, who is adamant about trying to shield his players from outside distractions, bristled briefly when asked about quarterback EJ Manuel’s chances of winning the award.
“Like I say, that’s for show dogs,” Fisher said in response to a question at his weekly media availability. “If you want to parade him around and do all that, I’d rather have a hunting dog.”
Fisher did say it would be “wonderful” if Manuel won the Heisman, considered the most coveted individual honor in college football.
“That’s all great, but that’s not for him to decide,” Fisher said.
