Pay-for-Play Puzzle

I recently had a question of mine get through on the Big Ten Blog at espn.com. Looking back, it was the result of being a little tired and overly annoyed with the constant "pay-for-play" debate going on in college sports. Basically, they have been talks of giving student athletes a stipend ON TOP of what they've already earned for scholarships. The response Adam Rittenberg gave me was not what I was hoping for, but I've gotten used to that. It was actually pretty civil compared to the "band nerd" pokes I received in the comment section from a 35 year old man...

First off, band nerd? I mean, really!? I heard that in middle school and even a little bit in high school, but come on.

Anyways, I'm used to music taking the backseat to sports. It's happened countless times, so it should be no surprise that once again they are talking about giving them more benefits. I guess the free tuition, housing, food, books, clothing, bowl game gift bags (last year included iPads for the entire football team) just isn't enough for our oh-so-fragile athletes.

Don't get me wrong, I love Nebraska football as much as the next guy. I grew up with it and have been a die hard fan my entire life. I've been used to the fact that they rule the school and state. But if we start paying them stipends for "the cost of living" (which I think can be argued that they really don't need) then pretty soon we're gonna start saying "Oh, well they all need cars to get around town. Here's a car." The NCAA has a rule that says athletes can't get certain jobs, which is absolutely ridiculous and should be removed immediately. At least give them work study or something.

My point is college is hard for everyone. The student athletes label has STUDENTS first because they are primarily STUDENTS. Yes, they bring in tons of money for the school, but this isn't the NFL. If they want extra spending money, take out a loan and pay it off once you make it in the big leagues.

I LOVE the NCAA, so let's keep it the same; not change it to the minor leagues.