As gambling controversies emerge in American pro sports, the NFL continues to avoid landing in any significant jackpots.
Sometimes, it’s just a matter of pure luck.
The fiasco arising from a FanDuel VIP host buying a Cameo video from Phillies first baseman Bryce Harper is another instance of the NFL surely muttering, “There but for the grace of the gambling gods go we.” Setting aside any legal issues, it’s just a horrible look. Harper mentioned the recipient’s FanDuel host, which should have given him an inkling that the video was being purchased for someone who had been betting — and losing — plenty of money.
As mentioned on Friday, it’s an example of the things sportsbooks do to keep losers losing. And it highlights the desperate need for regulation of an industry that remains in a Wild West gold rush, with the sportsbooks and those who profit from relationships with sportsbooks preying on those whose money is being wagered, and lost, while stuffing their coffers with as much cash as possible.
But there may be sufficient regulation already in place, in this specific instance. Via David Purdum of ESPN, the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board is taking a look at the issue.
“We are aware of the situation and are reviewing it,” the board said, per Purdum.
It’s unclear what, if any, provisions of the Pennsylvania laws or regulations that would be implicated. One question would possibly relate to whether and to what extent the rules regarding compulsive or problem gamblers were respected by the apparent effort to keep the recipient of the video at the trough, where his pocket could continue to be picked.
Regardless, more regulation is needed, as to all aspects of legalized (and normalized) sports betting. Irregularities have to be something more than a short-term blip of negative P.R. There should be clear rules that prohibit certain behaviors — with real consequences if/when those rules are broken.
Until then, the NFL needs to keep its fingers crossed that it remains out of the fray.
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