In a significant move to protect college athletes, Ohio and Maryland have decided to stop allowing prop bets on individual college football players. This decision comes amid growing concerns over the potential harassment of student-athletes linked to betting on their performance.
Maryland ended prop wagering on college players as of March 1, as reported by the Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Agency. This action aligns with efforts in other states to shield collegiate athletes from possible harassment stemming from betting activities. The focus of betting in college sports within Maryland will now shift to team-based outcomes rather than individual player performances. Sportsbooks in the state have already started to inform their customers about this significant policy change.
Meanwhile, Ohio previously did the same, with the Ohio Casino Control Commission announcing a similar ban after a request from the NCAA. This decision aims to reduce harassment of student-athletes that could arise from bets placed on their individual performance or statistics. The ban reflects a broader concern for the safety and well-being of student-athletes in Ohio, as well as the integrity of collegiate competitions.
Impact on Sports Betting and Athlete Protection
The move to ban college player prop bets marks a pivotal moment in the sports betting industry, particularly in states where such bets were previously allowed. Maryland, for instance, was among the few U.S. states that offered college player prop bets since sports betting became live in 2022. The decision to halt these bets underscores a growing recognition of the need to protect student-athletes from undue pressure and potential harassment.
In Ohio, the ban comes after notable requests from both NCAA President Charlie Baker and Ohio Governor Mike DeWine, who has been a vocal advocate for reforms to the state’s sports betting platform. The ban is expected to have a minimal financial impact on sports betting operators, as prop bets on college athletes accounted for about 1.35% of the state’s overall betting handle in 2023.
Broader Efforts to Safeguard Collegiate Sports
The actions taken by Ohio and Maryland are part of a larger trend among states to address concerns related to sports betting and its impact on college athletes. West Virginia, for example, recently passed a bill aimed at banning sports bettors who harass athletes, coaches, and officials. This legislation is now heading to the Senate for further consideration.
These measures reflect a growing consensus on the importance of protecting the integrity of collegiate competitions and the well-being of student-athletes. By focusing betting activities on team outcomes rather than individual performances, states aim to mitigate the risks associated with gambling-related harassment and ensure a fair and respectful environment for all participants in collegiate sports.
Looking Ahead: The Future of College Sports Betting
As the landscape of sports betting continues to evolve, the decisions by Ohio and Maryland to stop college football prop bets may inspire similar actions in other states. The emphasis on athlete protection and competition integrity is likely to remain a central theme in discussions about the regulation of sports betting, especially as it pertains to college sports.
Sportsbooks and betting platforms are adapting to these changes, with many already updating their policies and offerings to comply with new state regulations. As the industry moves forward, the balance between offering engaging betting opportunities and safeguarding the interests of student-athletes will be crucial.
In conclusion, the steps taken by Ohio and Maryland to halt college football prop bets represent a significant development in the ongoing effort to protect college athletes from the potential negative impacts of sports betting. By prioritizing the well-being of student-athletes and the integrity of collegiate competitions, these states are setting a precedent for responsible sports betting practices that other jurisdictions may soon follow.
